A framework for assessing successful implementation of digital villages in Kenya

Abstract

It is believed that Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can lead to development in developing countries hence the rush to execute ambitious ICT projects in these countries and especially in rural areas. The main focus of these initiatives has been the implementation of these projects, rather than successful implementation of these projects leading to realization of the desired impacts on the beneficiary. This has led to many failures of these projects. Kenya not being an exception has implemented so many lCT-related projects and most of these projects are not perform ing to the expectations of the government. Many Digital Inclusion (OT) projects have been put up but only a fraction of them are fully serving the community's needs. A visit to the Digital Village Pilot Projects by the IBM Teams confirms this. Assessing successful implementation of these projects is very important to ascertain the value of the project from the stakeholders' point of view if the desired impact is to be realized. This research was therefore geared towards developing a conceptual framework that can been used to assess successful implementation of Digital Villages in Kenya with more emphasis on Pasha Centres. Several ICT for Development (ICT4D) assessment frameworks were studied and important elements incorporated in the proposed framework. The elements in the framework were then tested using descriptive survey and instruments such as questionnaires, interviews and observation used to collect data. Hypotheses were formulated based on the major elements of the proposed framework. The elements in the conceptual framework were confirmed through data analysis and testing of the hypotheses. Newer elements were discovered and incorporated in the tested framework. The framework can be used to assess successful implementation of Digital Village Projects (DVPs) in Kenya from inception period onwards to avoid undertaking projects that end up fail ing in the long run.