Digital technologies and youth mobility in rural Zimbabwe
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Date
2021
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Wiley
Abstract
The adoption and use of digital technologies (DTs) in rural communities have an impact on several
aspects of the society. Using empirical evidence from selected villages of Beitbridge district in
Zimbabwe, this study examines the relationship between DTs and youth mobility. The different
types, causes, and motifs associated with youth mobilities are explored using qualitative research
methods including focus group discussions and community visioning workshops. Study findings
reveal challenges facing youths in trying to be mobile including social (mainly gender) inequalities.
Thus, women were found to be less mobile. Lack of infrastructure was found to be another key
challenge impacting youth mobility. The study however found that DTs are being adopted and
this has led to virtual mobilities, which is redefining youth mobility. The opportunities and challenges
of integrating virtual mobilities and physical mobilities were explored. The study findings
are critical to various actors including ICT, education, and other sectors in that they show opportunities
that need to be expropriated to enhance youth mobility, which is key to socio‐economic
well‐being of youths, as well as the challenges that can be faced through the ubiquity of DTs.
Description
Keywords
Digital technologies (DTs), ICT4D, Mobilities, Virtual mobilities
Citation
Gwaka, Leon. (2018). Digital technologies and youth mobility in rural Zimbabwe. Electronic Journal of Information Systems in Developing Countries. 84. 10.1002/isd2.12025.