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PDF The Department of Communications (DOC) says it will continue to promote the use and access of the Internet – saying it is a key catalyst for development in the country.
Speaking at the 13th Afrinic Public policy meeting in Johannesburg recently, deputy Communications minister, Obed Bapela, noted that the demand for the use of affordable ICTs in everyday life was growing and that governments had become aware of the growing role of the Internet in economic growth.
“It remains critical that collectively, we utilise the Internet as a tool to drive the socio-economic advancement of the citizens of developing countries, in an inclusive and people-centred manner.”
“We all have a duty, as Governments, the Private Sector, NGOs, academia, and the internet community as a whole, to ensure that the whole of humanity can benefit from the considerable opportunities offered by the internet to improve the lives of the underprivileged,” Bapela explained.
Bapela welcomed the recent International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary conference, saying important public policy issues which were relevant to the governance of the internet were given much needed attention.
The conference held discussions on Internet governance issues; the ethical responsibility of the Internet to child users; the promotion of cyber-security; issues relating to the transition from IPv4 to IPv6; and the importance of Universal access, including disability access.
“It is vital in the modern age to include the ICT sector, and the development of the Internet, in all national and regional development plans around the world. Only then can we ensure that ICTs become an effective enabler of economic growth, the creation of new jobs, skills for our people, and that we build the foundation for knowledge based economies on our continent,” Bapela explained.
He welcomed the creation of the Council Working Group on Public Policy issues arising from the Internet – saying it would enable greater discussion as the group will be open to observers who have an interest in Internet public policy.
Bapela noted the growing importance for leaders to work with stakeholders to ensure the effective delivery of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).
He added that the department welcomed South Africa’s hosting of the annual multi-stakeholder forum – saying it would allow government to review the implementation of the WSIS outcomes and the Information Society and Development Plan.
“This approach is critical when it comes to the Internet, as there are many important stakeholders across all platforms, with considerable expertise and a wealth of ideas that can assist national governments and Inter-governmental forums in the development of policies and in the effective implementation of those polices, for the greater benefit of humankind,” Bapela said.
