Implementation of Digital Village Projects in Developing Countries - Case of Kenya

Abstract

This paper looked at the implementation of Digital Village Projects (DVPs) in Kenya and the constraints that hinder the successful implementation of these projects. DVPs like any other Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) are projects that were initiated with the objective of economically empowering the community. The success of these projects is therefore paramount if the objective is to be achieved. An existing ICT4D assessment framework was adopted and its elements used to assess the implementation of these projects. The elements were tested using data collected through questionnaires, interview and observation. Several factors came out strongly as major hindrances to successful implementation of these projects. These include low level of information literacy, awareness, branding of DVPs, cost of services, and unavailability of affordable bandwidth. The study showed that the projects, even though still young, have contributed significantly to the lives of the beneficiaries. It is also evident that more could be achieved by adopting the adapted framework when implementing the projects