ABSTRACT
Academics, practitioners and development partners are increasingly discussing the role of information and communication technologies (ICT) in fostering development. This chapter argues that, although the initiatives geared towards bridging the digital divide in Africa are laudable, corporations can play a pivotal role in helping to bridge this gap by undertaking corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. CSR refers to the role that businesses play as citizens in society. CSR is seen as having an economic face—going beyond the bottom line; a legal face—conforming to the basic rules of society including those embodied in law and ethical customs; an ethical face—striving to operate in an ethical way; and a philanthropic face—enhancing the quality of life by giving back to communities. Companies that pursue CSR aimed at narrowing the digital divide stand to benefit immensely because they are in a position to reach more consumers.
