15 September 2006

The world's poorest countries are benefiting from increased Internet access, according to the United Nations.

An "encouraging" trend among the least developed countries (LDCs) to increase Internet access has been recorded by the body, remarks Cosmas Zavazava, head of the International Telecommunications Union's (ITU) unit for least developed countries, small island developing states and emergency telecommunications.

Countries such as Gambia, Lesotho and Mauritania have led the recent surge in access to broadband.

"What is really encouraging is the fact that there is incredible enthusiasm among LDCs to be part of the Information Society, remarks Mr Zavazava.

"This, coupled with the emergence of new, low-cost and affordable technologies, especially wireless, will hasten the pace towards universal access."

The ITU figures show that growth in mobile services is leading to a far wider proliferation of broadband access in LDCs, providing access to vital services such as e-education, e-health, e-agriculture, e-business and e-government.

© Adfero Ltd

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