"This study outlines a strategy for information and communication technology (ICT) development in Sub-Saharan Africa that will further the reform agenda to facilitate deployment of ICT infrastructure, and encourage the development community to support African governments in this regard. With a revit ... alized approach to ICT sector development in Sub-Saharan Africa, the World Bank Group is poised to support further reform of the telecommunications sectors in the region. The strategy builds on the earlier reform agenda in the sector by leveraging the achievements to date of Sub-Saharan African countries to advance the essential goal of increasing the continent’s connectivity. In its renewed efforts, the World Bank will emphasize developing and enhancing the capacity of Africa’s ICT institutions—including regulators, ministries, and regional bodies—to lead the development of an interconnected region and to implement sustainable regional strategies for integration and knowledge sharing. Of particular concern is the ability to bring rural areas into the national, regional, and global economies, thus creating new opportunities for the world’s poorest citizens." (Back cover) more