The Africa Mobile Phone Boom: A trigger for economic development?
Date: Thursday 1st September, 6pm
Venue: G2, SOAS
Africa’s technological spirit is on a rise, particularly in the telecommunications market. Despite having amongst the lowest levels of infrastructure in the world, an increasing proportion of the population of Africa now has access to mobile phones. Individuals are becoming linked up across the continent, and access to markets and services are improving. Mobile phone operators have exploited the new possibilities through the innovative application of mobile phones in political elections, health schemes, local farming projects and banking.
Mobile phones have become a crucial component of everyday social and business transactions, but what is the future of mobile telephony in Africa?
Is the claim that mobiles are aiding development as clear as it seems?
Speakers
- Marieme Jamme is the CEO of SpotOne Global Solutions, a UK based company that helps IT and telecoms companies develop their business and achieve a market presence in Africa, Asia and Europe.
- Ken Banks is the founder of kiwanja.net and the architect behind frontline SMS. He specialises in the application of mobile technology for positive social and environmental change in the developing world.
- Nick Short is a qualified veterinary surgeon who teaches at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London. He has worked extensively in the developing world, as both a practising vet and a consultant. His recent podcasts and presentations highlight the use of mobile phones in African farming sectors.
Chair
- Guy Collender is the policy and Communications Officer at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, with a background in journalism and development.
Source: mail by Royal African Society
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