Electronic waste

Reading through a story written Emmanuel K. Dogbevi on
http://ewasteguide.info/e-waste-campaign-gra
has kept me thinking about the future of telecentres and e-waste.

Look at the pictures on the link where Emmanuel wrote his story. What are we going to do about those? There are several computer schools and Internet cafes springing up in Ghana and especially in Tamale where i live and work. This is good new to me because gradually the myth surrounding computers is being broken as people will not think of computers as some "magic" in the sky. Gradually, the digital divide will be broken. The sad part of this happening though is the fact that these computers are almost "dead" computers. These raises the question of e-waste. Are we embracing these "slightly used" or "home used" computers while thinking of the environment and the future generation? These things do not decompose and have their own effects.

The good news though is that, the three telecentres (Salaga CIC, Yendi CIC and Bimbilla CIC) that i have had the opportunity of working with in Ghana, are all using brand new computers. The use of brand new computers at the Community Information Centres/telecentres established by the Government of Ghana in the various districts in Ghana is one that should be applauded. Assuming all of the 210 district CICs were using the "home used" computers. What then would happen to our environment?

The vision of the Community Information Centre (CIC) concept is to create rural access centres and use the medium of ICT to promote community-based ICT applications that will promote operational efficiencies delivered through effective and timely availability of information. The purpose is to provide community development information and business services to remote communities. CIC’s will provide access to: Internet-enabled computers, software based on the local information needs, Fax machines, Printers, Copiers, Telephones, Television and Radios. In addition there will be an adjoining library with books and daily newspapers and magazines.

The International Institute for communication and development(IICD) is partnering with GIFTEL to support the Community Information Centres (CICs) in the the north of Ghana.

Let your comments come in.

Cheers!