Digital Inclusion and the Digital Divide in Rural African Communities of São Tomé and Príncipe: A Survey Research

Digital inclusion in rural African communities is a critical issue, with significant disparities between urban and rural areas often exacerbated by technological divides. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. Data were collected from 300 participants in randomly selected villages across the island. A notable finding is that only 45% of surveyed households have access to reliable internet, highlighting significant disparities in digital infrastructure and affordability. Rural communities face substantial challenges in accessing digital technologies, with socio-economic factors playing a crucial role in exacerbating these issues. Investment in rural broadband infrastructure and targeted education programmes are recommended as key strategies to enhance digital inclusion in São Tomé and Príncipe.