M-Powering Development Initiative

A report by the m-Powering Development Initiative Advisory Board

Source: International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

Abstract:

With mobile subscriptions approaching 7 billion1, it is clear that mobile communications could become a universal tool with benefits far beyond the voice and text communication originally envisaged. The mPowering Development Initiative is a cross-sectoral examination of the potential and actuality of mobile communications, especially for wider development.

This report, compiled by Working Groups assigned a specific sector, evaluates progress made within that sector and the role of stakeholders involved before providing concrete recommendations for future activities. These activities necessarily involve many different kinds of stakeholders and environments.

Analysis of the reports of the Working Groups on m-Health, m-Learning, m-Commerce, m-Business Models, and Advocacy for Mobile reveals a number of systemic issues that are common to all these sectors. These issues need to be collectively addressed if we are to achieve the desired sustainability and scalability of m-Powering Development initiatives.

Information Society

Telecommunications

Development Programmes

Broadband

Internet

Investment

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)

Governance

Policy Making

International Cooperation