Internet access in Africa: empirical evidence from Kenya and Nigeria

Abstract

Using empirical and new field data, this exploratory study investigates the pattern of adoption and constraints to the use of the Internet in Africa. A cross-country examination using regression shows that Internet use is constrained by structural as well as cost factors. Field data from interviews of over 200 academics in 10 universities in Kenya and Nigeria confirmed much of the aggregate country level findings. Our study found that initial investment cost of end-user equipment limits the ownership of PCs, compelling academics to seek Internet access in cyber cafes and other public places.