10 - Moving towards a ubiquitous service for information access: the information environment in Botswana

Abstract

This chapter highlights the significance of information in any environment where learning or service takes place and claims the world is, consequently, compelled to unite in racing to provide prompt and adequate information access to the populace. Affirming that Botswana is not left behind with the demand of the times, the chapter observes the drive towards the nation’s information and communications technology (ICT) policy spanning virtually all areas of national life. Examining the concept of information needs and information (seeking) behaviour, the chapter provides an in-depth examination of the available information sources that make information access possible to the citizens in Botswana. The role of the government is specifically noted as well as some private initiatives in providing ubiquitous information access to people. The chapter contends that the accessibility and use put into the information channels make an individual or a society information-poor or information-rich, and considers recommendations necessary for dealing with noticeable hitches.