A legal analysis of the regulation of information and communications technologies to promote digital inclusion for the poor and low-income earners in South Africa
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Date
Authors
Chitimira, Howard
Motlogeloa, Keamogetse
Magau, Phemelo
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
ADJURIS – International Academic Publisher
Abstract
Digital inclusion involves the provision of equitable access to Information and Communications Technologies
(ICT) to all persons for them to participate in socio-economic activities such as accessing financial services and products,
education and employment. This article provides an overview of the regulation of digital inclusion in the South African
ICT sector by examining the Electronic Communications Act 36 of 2005, the Independent Communication Authority of
South Africa Act 13 of 2000 and the Competition Act 89 of 1998. The article also investigates the legal and related
challenges that affect the promotion of digital inclusion for the poor and low-income earners in South Africa. Challenges
affecting the promotion of digital inclusion in South Africa such as racial segregation, digital illiteracy, language
barriers, disability, geographical limitation, poverty, low-income and affordability are discussed. This is done to
recommend possible measures that could be adopted by policymakers and the relevant regulatory bodies to enhance the
promotion of digital inclusion for the poor and low-income earners in South Africa.
Description
Keywords
Information and communication technology (ICT), Digital inclusion, Digital divide, Technology, Low-income earners, COVID-19 pandemic, Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), SDG-01: No poverty, SDG-09: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, SDG-16: Peace, justice and strong institutions
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG-01:No poverty
SDG-09: Industry, innovation and infrastructure
SDG-16:Peace,justice and strong institutions
SDG-09: Industry, innovation and infrastructure
SDG-16:Peace,justice and strong institutions
Citation
Chitimira, H., Motlogeloa, K. & Magau, P. 2023, 'A legal analysis of the regulation of information and communications technologies to promote digital inclusion for the poor and low-income earners in South Africa', Perspectives of Law and Public Administration, vol. 12, no. 4, pp. 563-574.