EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF DIGITALIZATION AND INEQUALITY POST COVID -19 IN AFRICA

Abstract

The impact of the coronavirus (Covid-19) has changed economic, social, political life around the world. One of the most significant effects of the pandemic has been the accelerated adoption of digital technologies in many sectors of the global economy. The pandemic has thrust the world into a situation where people without access are completely excluded. Therefore, this study investigated impacts of Covid 19 in Africa. The analysis is based on the systematic review of secondary data on Covid 19 in Africa. This reflects the preference for living alone during pandemic in least developed country (ITU,2019). In low and middle –income countries the number of women who own a mobile phone is 10% less than men, and the number of women using mobile internet worldwide is less than 300 million (GSMA,2020). The literature in this article will fill the knowledge gap on how to conceptualise the relationship between digital inclusion and rising inequality in Africa. Given the heavy use of technology to meet basic needs such as health and education we need to understand the impact of digital divide on social equality. Information technology especially the internet will remain central to the post pandemic scenario, and innovation will facilitate its expanded use. With more than 3 billion people confined to their home, digital spaces are not only the main means of accessing information and services but also one of the few social interaction.