Knowledge management (KM) is increasingly important to the field of information and communication technologies for development (ICT4D). Yet, scant literature has addressed KM in the ICT4D context. This study takes an important step toward addressing this gap by conceptualizing KM in the context of ICT4D based on the people‐process‐technology perspective. To elicit KM factors most relevant to ICT4D, a Delphi study is conducted with a panel of experts representing three key stakeholder groups (beneficiaries, partners, and designers) with cumulative experience of leading ICT4D projects in 25 countries. Based on the Delphi study findings, 16 factors relevant to KM in ICT4D are synthesized. A multi‐stakeholder engagement framework for KM in ICT4D and an activity checklist are proposed. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing insights into the differing views of stakeholders related to KM practices in ICT4D projects. Practitioners may find the framework and checklist useful in coordinating and managing KM in ICT4D projects. As development initiatives become increasingly knowledge focused, the study calls upon researchers for more enquiry in this progressive area of study.
ObjectiveEmergency care can address over half of deaths occurring each year in low-income countries. A baseline evaluation of the specific needs and gaps in the supply of emergency care at community level could help tailor suitable interventions in such settings. This study evaluates access to, utilisation of, and barriers to emergency care in the city of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.DesignA cross-sectional, community-based household survey.Setting12 health zones in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.ParticipantsThree-stage randomised cluster sampling was used to identify approximately 100 households in each of the 12 clusters, for a total of 1217 households. The head of each household or an adult representative responded on behalf of the household. Additional 303 respondents randomly selected in the households were interviewed regarding their personal reasons for not accessing emergency care.Primary outcomeAvailability and utilisation of emergency care services.ResultsIn August 2021, 1217 households encompassing 6560 individuals were surveyed (response rate of 96.2%). Most households were economically disadvantaged (70.0% lived with <US$100 per person per month) and had no health insurance (98.4%) in a country using a fee-for-service healthcare payment system. An emergency visit in the last 12 months was reported in 52.6% of households. Ambulance utilisation was almost non-existent (0.2%) and access to health facilities for emergencies was mostly by walking (60.6% and 56.7% by day and night, respectively). Death in the last 12 months was reported in 12.8% of households, of which 20.6% occurred out-of-hospital with no care received within 24 hours prior to death. Self-medication (71.3%) and the expected high cost of care (19.5%) were the main reasons for unmet emergency care needs.ConclusionThere is a substantial gap in the supply of emergency care in Kinshasa, with several unmet needs and reasons for poor access identified.
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