A Spatial Analysis of the Intra-National Digital Divide in Kenya as a Regional Development Dilemma

Abstract

In the past, different technologies' have had varied impacts on the development of nations, regions, cities, and citizens worldwide. Currently, the impacts of information and communication technologies (rCTs)2 are the manifestations of that legacy. However, the disparities in access to lets among nations, regions, cities, and citizens - that is, the digital divide - portend a gloomy picture to the realization and equitable distribution of the impacts accruing from their investments. Against this background, this article examines the extent and determinants of the intra-national digital divide in Kenya and the link between Kenya's intra-national digital divide and the pattern of economic development. It employed spatial analysis using regional-level (or district) Internet cafes' data. it shows spatial dependence in the number of Internet cafes, implying that adoption and use of K'Ts show spatial clustering. Overall, the article's findings suggest that there is need for deliberate efforts by governments and other players to avoid the risk of widening regional development disparities, especially in developing countries.