Research News
Radio, Convergence and Development in Africa
A new three-year research programme funded by DFID, and IDRC will support research on how the purposes and functions of traditional radio in Africa are influenced by new information and communication technologies (ICTs), notably mobile phones and the internet.
While other ICTs continue to expand their reach, it is clear that radio remains the dominant mass-medium in Africa. However, the dramatic increase in mobile phone penetration and interactive exchange of content across Africa is ushering in a significant change in communications and a range of positive and negative development outcomes. Research is needed to establish baseline data, to collect impact evidence, and forecast future trends.
There will be a competitive call for research proposals in late 2009. Research grants will be awarded in early 2010.
This is an initiative through the IDRC/DFID ICT4D programme, administered by the Centre for Media and Transitional Societies, Carleton University, Canada.
Further background information is available here.