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Afr05b


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Digitalization and comparative African development II 
Convenor:
Evans Awuni (Universität Erfurt and GIGA Hamburg)
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Discussant:
Dieter Neubert (University of Bayreuth)
Format:
Panel
Stream:
African Studies
Location:
Room 1224
Sessions:
Thursday 9 June, -
Time zone: Europe/Berlin

Short Abstract:

Digitalization has enormous consequences on Africa. Yet, various disciplines including African studies have only begun to understand the dynamics of the emerging digital transformation. This panel addresses how new forms of technological change impact contemporary outcomes and challenges in Africa.

Long Abstract:

Digitalization has enormous consequences on Africa. Since the turn of the millennium, many countries in Africa have experienced an unprecedented turnaround in terms of various political, socioeconomic, and cultural outcomes and it appears that at the heart of the unparalleled progress is an increasing level of digitalization catalyzed by the information technology boom. Digitalization has transformed how individuals, societies, firms and governments operate through the application of ICT tools such as computers, mobile phones and the internet. This has led to the emergence of new forms of civic engagement, employment, products, processes and market channels that impact livelihoods and how people behave and communicate. Though digitalization potentially has many positive implications, such as the creation of new jobs, there are also possible negative effects including job destruction that may render whole systems of the economy redundant affecting current and future labour market and social policies. Recently, mobility restrictions associated with the Coronavirus pandemic have made the impact of digitalization even more pronounced. While the dynamics and impact of digitalization receive extensive research attention in advanced countries, the same cannot be said for Africa. For instance, considering Africa’s large informal sector and digital development disparities, it remains to be seen whether the emerging transformation will create new divides, reinforce old divides or provide solutions. Yet, various disciplines including African studies, have only begun to understand the processes and impacts of such digital transformation. This panel addresses how new forms of technological change impact contemporary development outcomes and challenges in Africa.

Accepted papers:

Session 1 Thursday 9 June, 2022, -
Panel Video visible to paid-up delegates