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Information and Communication Technology in Rural Healthcare and Social Welfare Service Provision in Ghana – Prospects in the Face of Social Inequalities

Author

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  • Paul Kwaku Larbi Anderson

    (Center for Planning and Development of Social Services (ZPE) University of Siegen, Germany)

  • Johannes Schädler

    (Center for Planning and Development of Social Services (ZPE) University of Siegen, Germany)

  • Lars Wissenbach

    (Center for Planning and Development of Social Services (ZPE) University of Siegen, Germany)

Abstract

In recent times, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are being adopted more widely and variously by local governments across the globe to enhance citizens’ participation in the socio-political decision-making process. Potentially, ICTs, if properly designed and implemented, can improve civic participation in the context of information dissemination, request and feedback, and direct engagement in local policy debates in various areas of public service delivery. This paper presents the findings of a study that examined the prospects of enhancing citizens’ participation in local governance and development through ICTs in rural Ghanaian communities. The main objective was to explore the potential of ICTs to facilitate communication relating to social welfare and health-related services between rural dispersed communities and local government structures. The study was conducted in two purposefully selected municipalities, one being Nsawam-Adoagyiri, and the other Suhum, both situated in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Through community engagements and participatory design, digital competence, and the use of ICT tools for communication and participation in local governance were explored with the primary focus on public service delivery relating to health and social care.

Suggested Citation

  • Paul Kwaku Larbi Anderson & Johannes Schädler & Lars Wissenbach, 2022. "Information and Communication Technology in Rural Healthcare and Social Welfare Service Provision in Ghana – Prospects in the Face of Social Inequalities," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 6(12), pages 08-15, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:6:y:2022:i:12:p:08-15
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Darren Chadwick & Caroline Wesson & Chris Fullwood, 2013. "Internet Access by People with Intellectual Disabilities: Inequalities and Opportunities," Future Internet, MDPI, vol. 5(3), pages 1-22, July.
    2. Amy Antonio & David Tuffley, 2014. "The Gender Digital Divide in Developing Countries," Future Internet, MDPI, vol. 6(4), pages 1-15, October.
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