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Communication Networking: ICTs and health information in Africa

part-time faculty member at the Department of Cultural Studies, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada; 172B Waterbridge Drive, Nepean, Ontario K2G 7C6 Canada. ojotoks{at}yahoo.com tokunboojo{at}trentu.ca

This paper examines the uses of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the African health sector. In particular, it shows the benefits that ICTs can bring to African health care systems in the areas of medical information, clinical data exchange, treatment, health education campaigns and international collaboration between African medical experts and their colleagues abroad. Despite the potential benefits and uses of ICTs, the paper warns that ICTs should not be naively celebrated as the panacea of African health care. It suggests that ICTs should be a means, not an end, for development in Africa. In this context, the paper illustrates how ICTs can be adapted for human development, social capabilities and literacy within African society.

Key Words: ICTs • medical information • public health • Africa • participatory communication

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