[kictanet] Universal Service & Access Funds | An Untapped Resource to Close the Gender Digital Divide

[WANGARI KABIRU]

Universal Service & Access Funds | An Untapped Resource to Close the Gender Digital Divide
  
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Universal Service & Access Funds | An Untapped Resource to Close the Ge...
 Universal Service and Access Funds (USAFs) are communal public funds dedicated to expanding internet connectivit...  |   |

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"Most USAF managers do not yet appreciate the importance of investing in solutions to reduce the gender digital divide. Many assume that investment in any internet access solution will equally benefit both men and women, which is unfortunately not the case. Information about USAF financing, programming, and disbursement is hard to find. Just 23 countries openly publish details on their USAF activities; even when they do publish these details, they can be hard to find and hard to understand, leaving citizens little power to hold the USAF to account....."

"The Web Foundation, the Alliance for Affordable Internet and UN Women are calling on governments to invest at least 50% of funds collected for expanding connectivity in projects targeting women’s internet access and use. This call to action is based on our new research — released today at the 62nd UN Commission on the Status of Women. The research finds that an estimated US$408 million collected to expand internet access is sitting unused in public coffers throughout Africa. Failure to use these funds — enough to bring 6 million women online, or to provide digital skills training to 16 million women and girls — to expand connectivity to all risks widening global inequality and undermining global development." 
The Civil Society has a call to action in this area. Even as it continues to focus on food, water and other Maslow basic needs, there is a role in the new economy. A great beneficiary would be the private sector, why both sectors should collaborate with governments.
Be blessed.Regards/Wangari---
Pray God Bless. 2013Wangari circa - "Being of the Light, We are Restored Through Faith in Mind, Body and Spirit; We Manifest The Kingdom of God on Earth".
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