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Enabling people to connect

The challenge: exploiting ICT in rural off-grid areas

Reliable power supply is an overriding precondition in the operation and outreach of ICT throughout any country. Lack of reliable energy services coupled with poor   communication in remote rural areas in many developing countries hampers both social and economic development.

Our approach: renewable energy powered Business Information Centres

UNIDO works to extend ICT access to rural areas through renewable energy powered Business Information Centres. In mid 2008, the first centre is due to be opened in the district of Mocuba, Mozambique. In addition to the provision of tailored access to ICT, the self-sustainable centre will also demonstrate the use of renewable energy for productive activities, particularly to empower rural small-scale entrepreneurs. Similar renewable energy powered Centres will soon be replicated in Nigeria, Uganda and Kenya.