Application of information and communication technology (ICT) in combating human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in South Africa

This paper reviews Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and its applications to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in South Africa. It consists of ICT and HIV and AIDS, ICT policy and strategy, conventional ICT applications (print, telephone, television, video, and multimedia programmes), modern ICT applications (internet portal, mobile phones, computer (database development), telemedicine, Cochrane library, and multipurpose community telecentres). A number of interventions tested the effectiveness of technology-based communication techniques such as videos, CD- ROMs, and interactive multimedia programmes. Findings from these studies are equivocal. While the digital divide between the developed and the developing world continues to widen, health and HIV prevention projects could prioritise ICT applications throughout the developing world.