ICT use in South African microenterprises: An assessment of livelihood outcomes

This paper reports on a study on the impact of using Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) on the livelihoods of microenterprises. The study used a qualitative approach and focused on the case of South Africa. Microenterprises play an important role in socio-economic development and in bridging the gap in the segments of the economy of South Africa. The study findings confirm that ICT use and support of institutions and organisations have a positive impact on the livelihoods of microenterprises. However, ICT use in microenterprises is curtailed by challenges beyond access and ownership of ICTs. Chief among these problems is lack of awareness of application of ICT in business activities and awareness of support services provided by business development organisations.