Wireless Applications in Africa

Abstract

This chapter examines wireless technologies in Africa, with special reference to indigenous minority populations. In a continent with limited infrastructure, itinerant populations, low literacy levels and little money to spend on technology, wireless is proving an effective solution. Four implementations are examined to demonstrate how new approaches to mobile design are producing culturally and environmentally appropriate technology: the Himba’s satellite-based mobile telephone network, Cyber Sherpherd, Cybertracker and WorldSpace satellite Internet radios.