ABSTRACT
The major obstacles to greater and more efficient use of microcomputers in Zimbabwe fall into the following five categories: foreign exchange shortage; lack of awareness; data communications; support services; and schools. Like many developing countries, Zimbabwe suffers from an acute shortage of external funds, which places a severe restriction on all imported goods, especially including computers. Microcomputer hardware and software support is not readily available as a complete service, and again the situation is aggravated by the wide variety of makes and models. The suggestions for remedying the situation in Zimbabwe fall broadly into two areas where assistance would be meaningful: external finance; and training and education. Training programs on appropriate technology would be of considerable value to the business and educational sectors and could be in the form of visiting lecturers or sending local trainers abroad. Packaged courses supplied to educational institutions would also be a positive contribution.
