I get calls frequently from people interested in supporting projects in Africa looking for information and advice. A recent caller who was interested in supporting local organizations in Africa, was very concerned about what she called the” lack of technology in Africa” which she viewed as a major problem in working with local groups.

Consequently, she was already of the mindset that the best way to proceed was to fund US groups who had developed ways of working with local groups in Africa. While this is one option, it struck me how important it is for those working in philanthropy (as well as the general public) to have a sense of the growth of technology in Africa.

While communications can be challenging in many parts of Africa, the cell phone and related technologies are being used in very innovative ways. They are becoming a familiar site in the markets in the countryside as well as those in urban areas. The introduction of the 3G broadband means mobile technology will play an increasing role in internet access.

There is a lot of information about the growth of the information industry in Africa. The sources that I recommended to this caller was balancing act news (www.balancingact-africa.com). I have found it to be both interesting and informative. In addition to concise updates on the telecom, Internet, and computer industries, it also includes information on people, events, and money. (Yes, this is a growing market for investors). My other recommendation was allafrica.com, a gem of the latest news from African sources.

Also, check out the interview with Dr. Hamadoun Toure at the 2008 International Telecommunications Union Africa meeting held in Cairo about mobile investments in developing
markets. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujZWeIZRsnI).

While the telecommunications infrastructure in Africa has its challenges, these challenges should not discourage funders from establishing relationships and supporting local groups.