The usage of Khudze Multipurpose Community Telecentre in Mwanza District, Malawi

Abstract

Despite that Khudze Multipurpose Community Telecentre has been operating for over five years, observations showed that it is used by a few people. This study empirically investigated the usage of Khudze Multipurpose Community Telecentre. Specifically, it examined the Telecentre’s usage patterns; benefits of using it; and reasons why some community members do not use the Telecentre. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from users, non-users and the Telecentre management. The study reveals that the Telecentre is mostly used by males, youths, the average educated and students. The users benefit by improving their knowledge and skills; reduce travelling costs and time to access the same services; improving social interaction and improving communication. Despite these benefits, the Telecentre usage is low due to illiteracy, lack of awareness of the existence of the Telecentre and its importance, technophobia, lack of interest among community members, lack of unique services in the Telecentre and lack of skills of using the Telecentre. The Telecentre Management and Government should address the factors to increase its usage.