New Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and Sustainable Human Development

Niger is a Saharan country which faces numerous natural handicaps, notably the arid climate, great demographic pressure and the scarcity of resources. This, coupled with a series of socio-political crises have meant that Niger now has the second lowest HDI in the world. This year's NHDR considers the potential of ICTs as tools for reducing poverty. The authors argue that ICTs offer an unprecedented opportunity for achieving development, particularly poverty reduction, healthcare and education. Providing an assessment of the current use of ICTs and addressing the importance of renewable energy sources in Niger, the report examines how new ICTs can be used to increase human development in the country.