ECA Press Release No. 11/2005

Addis Ababa, 28 April 2005 (ECA) - Integrating information into Africa’s development is critical for full economic success on the continent, according to ECA Executive Secretary K.Y Amoako.

In closing remarks to the ECA-hosted Committee on Development Information (CODI-IV) last week, Amoako endorsed CODI’s conviction that the information and knowledge sectors are now the cornerstones of the emerging e-economy.

He said countries’ participation in the information economy should be accompanied by strategies for competitiveness in trade, commerce and investment.

“With the support of national delegates, information, communication experts and economists, it is expected that the recommendations from this CODI meeting can be integrated into ECA’s work programme in order to accelerate the greater use of information by African countries in economic activities,” he stated.

Participants in the meeting, held from 23-28 April 2005, recommended that the ECA and Africa pay greater attention to ensuring adequate competition in the information industry - notably in telecommunications - in a bid to reduce costs and improve access. They also called for policies aimed at developing Africa’s software industry.

Amoako assured participants - who comprised specialists in information and communication technology (ICTs), geoinformation experts, librarians and statisticians – that the ECA heeded the recommendations, including boosting support for statistical development.

He concluded by stressing that Africa would need a pool of experts to address the challenges and opportunities offered by the information economy.

For more information contact: Mercy Wambui, Communication Officer, tel : +251 1 445452 email: mwambui@uneca.org
Or visit CODI website at: http://www.uneca.org/codi

Issued by the ECA Communication Team
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