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Why calls in Africa cost more: The need for VSATs
2005, Panos Media Toolkit on ICTs
This publication discusses how government policy has hindered the development of telephone and internet connectivity in Africa. It suggests that Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) satellite technology can be one possible solution to connectivity in Africa but only if policy acts to create a ICT-friendly ecosystem in which VSAT services can establish themselves and grow. The piece offers reasons why despite their disadvantages, VSATs are an appropriate technology for Africa and discusses their possible uses, from distance learning to disaster relief. It notes that though government involvement is still necessary for the regulation of 'Open Skies', it is up to civil society and others to put pressure on the governments to open up to private investment for the establishment of VSATs.