Why National Strategies are Needed for ICT-enabled Development

This paper examines the challenges and opportunities of the information and communication technology (ICT) revolution, and their implications for development policy and strategies. It explores why developing countries should look ahead and try to adapt and harness ICT in support of economic and social development. It provides a broad view of the promises and risks of the ICT revolution, and its potential impact on productivity, markets, organizations and education, among others. Then it outlines the rationale for designing national strategies for e-development (or e-enhanced development), and the options, objectives and major thrusts for such strategies in support of economic growth, poverty reduction and the Millennium Development Goals.