e-governance in an environment with limited resources

Abstract

This paper explores the challenges of e-governance in Africa using Ghana as a case study. It notes that while e-government may promote good governance and economic growth, critical challenges such as weak infrastructure and inadequate funding remain key obstacles. The paper concludes that addressing these challenges will depend on the active involvement of the state in ICT development.

E‐trade Facilitation in Ghana: A Capability Approach Perspective

“…The interviews suggest that low internet penetration, sluggish internet and frequent interruptions in connectivity are major barriers. This is consistent with the challenges of e-government identified by Awotwi & Owusu (2007) which suggests that weak ICT infrastructure as a major obstacle to e-government in Ghana. Furthermore, the generally low ICT literacy in Ghana is a barrier to functionings.…”

“…Poor ICT infrastructure, low internet penetration, and slow connectivity and frequent disruptions have been identified by this study and prior studies (for example Awotwi & Owusu, 2007) as challenges to efforts to promote e-government. The study underscores the need to strengthen ICT infrastructure base in the country to enable users benefit from e-government.…”

Digitization of local revenue collection in Ghana: An evaluation of Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA)

“…However, his study did not consider local authorities like MMDAs. In contrast, Awortwi and Owusu () support the assertion that the initiation of e‐government strategies is associated with huge financial commitments, which may be difficult for public institutions in developing countries like Ghana to bear. Therefore, the findings of scholars like Osei‐Kojo () were not consistent with those of Awortwi and Owusu ().…”

“…In contrast, Awortwi and Owusu () support the assertion that the initiation of e‐government strategies is associated with huge financial commitments, which may be difficult for public institutions in developing countries like Ghana to bear. Therefore, the findings of scholars like Osei‐Kojo () were not consistent with those of Awortwi and Owusu (). In view of the urgent calls for the reduction of public spending and an increment in revenue generation capacity of MMDAs (Ohemeng & Ofosu‐Darkwah, ), the notion that e‐government enhances revenue capacity of state institutions is contentious and needs further investigation.…”