Rwandans living in rural areas should change the perception that the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a preserve for the urban dwellers and the rich, the Local Government minister has said.
Rwandans living in rural areas should change the perception that the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a preserve for the urban dwellers and the rich, the Local Government minister has said.James Musoni made the remarks on Thursday in Bumbogo Sector, Gasabo District, as the Ministry of Youth and ICT launched an ICT awareness and literacy campaign in the district."It is not true that ICT users must be urban dwellers or the rich people…the government has invested much in ICT infrastructure to give equal opportunity to all Rwandans, but the problem is that rural residents are not aware,’’ Musoni said, adding that the government’s target is to extend ICT to the rural and low income people.Government has made ICT facilities available at the grassroots so they can be accessed by low income people, he said.During the same function, business operators, telecommunications companies and financial institutions showcased their innovations by use of ICT.Also, 180 people were trained in computer programmes with facilitation of mobile facilities provided by Rwanda Development Board (RDB).Gasabo is the fifth district to host ICT awareness and literacy campaign, a five-year countrywide drive.It was launched in January this year in Rulindo District, Northern Province.The campaign, according to Musoni, is paying off as the trained have since used ICT in their undertakings.