Use of Information and Communication Technologies by Women Hawkers and Vendors in South Africa (Report‪)‬

Introduction Many countries, both developed and developing, are investing in information and communication technologies (ICTs) for improving their life styles and business practices. The South African government has placed a strong emphasis on ICT sector development through the implementation of a national ICT strategy, which proactively addresses ICT penetration, particularly for disadvantaged segments of the society (Zawada et al., 2007). Also, the South African ICT sector development framework aims to promoting the development of the ICT sector in South Africa, thereby complementing and supporting the broader socio-economic goals of the government of South Africa. There are other specific initiatives by the South African government to promote ICTs sector development, especially for disadvantaged communities. The 1995 Green Paper and the 1996 White Paper on Telecommunications Policy form the basis of the 1996 Telecommunications Act. Also, Info.com 2025, a programme which addresses issues of policy infrastructure, human capacity and local content within ICT industries, seeks to empower people in the way they work, live, play and make South Africa globally competitive (Kwake and Ocholla, 2007).