Ann Dumas

Information and Communication Technology and Gender Equity Policy: Lessons of the Mali Telecentres Ann Dumas

This work explores the interplay between information and communication technology (ICT) and the engagement of women in facilitating social, political and economic development in traditional poor, rural, communities of Mali, a least developed country. This research applies international regime theory and development as freedom theory to help explain how ICT diffusion with gender equity enhances development for women, family and therefore the nation. The Multipurpose Community Telecentre (MCT) in Timbuktu serves as a model for rural ICT development. Women participated in the design, implementation and operation of this MCT. The community open access design was found to be particularly conducive to ICT development through women¿s social networking. Research indicates women are keepers of indigenous knowledge systems in cultural communities. The country data strongly suggest positive and directional change in Mali during 1990 to 2000, a period of dynamic telecommunications and gender equity policy liberalization. This research found ICT applications helped facilitate positive change in health, education, politics and the economy in Mali.