The Livelihood Outcomes of ICT Use in Microenterprises: The Case of South Africa

Abstract This study is premised on the understanding that microenterprises play an important role in the socio‐economic development of developing countries. Using the case of South Africa, this paper reports on a study of the impact of using Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) on the livelihoods of microenterprises in a developing country context. The study used qualitative data gathered through in‐depth interviews, observations, documentary review and field notes. The findings of the study confirm that ICT use has a positive impact on the livelihoods of microenterprises. However, it was noted that ICT use in microenterprises is often curtailed by challenges beyond access and ownership of ICT. Chief among the challenges is the lack of awareness of ICT use in business activities. The study also investigated whether embedding ICT support within a business support programme would improve the chances and quality of appropriation. It was noted that the strategy did not always yield positive outcomes.