ICT and Rural Development in the Global South

[This] is a wonderfully crafted book that demonstrates a versatile understanding of the nature of human relationships in the real word of rural communities. As an extension of the author's earlier work, Rural Development in Practice (also worth reading), this new volume focuses on the importance of the application of information and communications technology on the multifarious aspects of rural development. It is predominantly structured and informed by the author's extensive experiences of working in "the Global South" [...] This is a much more penetrating and deeply nuanced treatment that attempts to balance opportunities and successes with the risks and dangers inherent in the substantial investments (both financial and cultural) required for mainstreaming technological innovation. It is, in fact, a breath of fresh air to read.

Frank Rennie, Professor of Sustainable Rural Development and Head of Research and Postgraduate Development, University of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland, UK, in a book review published in Development in Practice, February 2024.

The book provides a fresh and exciting view of how technology is used in rural areas in the Deep South. I enjoyed reading the examples and feedback as well as the opportunities, future, and challenges experienced in their own contexts. I think a tremendous amount of knowledge is shared that can assist similar future projects in knowing how to approach ICT in rural contexts and what the pitfalls and dangers to be aware of.

M. E. Herselman, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), CSIR, Pretoria Campus, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa, in a book review published in EJISDC, in November 2023.

Willem van Eekelen, in ICT and Rural Development in the Global South, provides an open and honest review of ICT4D in the Global South. Van Eekelen's experience is clear to anyone who has worked in this field, and his knowledge of the benefits and risks is reflected on each page. Not only does he debunk many myths of ICT for development, but he also provides insight into where ICT can be beneficial, what risks ICT4D faces, and how to mitigate them. [...] ICT and Rural Development in the Global South is a must-read for anyone involved in ICT4D wanting to make a noticeable difference to livelihoods in the Global South.

Malcolm Garbutt, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa, in a book review published in EJISDC, in November 2023.

This remarkably up-to-date monograph covers a complex subject in an engaging and accessible manner, making it a good text for students, academics, policymakers and donors alike. Indeed, it is rare to find a book like this that is so well written that even the footnotes are exciting. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the current state of rural development in the Global South.

Stephanie Matti, University of Iceland, Saemundargata 2, Reykjavik, Iceland, in a book review published in Progress in Development Studies, in April 2024.