Analysing barriers in the implementation of national ICT policy: Case of Malawi

Abstract

Despite having national Information and Communications Technology (ICT) policies formulated and written down, African countries are facing barriers in implementing the policy declarations. This study builds on previous studies that have looked at barriers in the whole policy cycle. Using an in-depth case of Malawi, the study analysed barriers in the policy implementation phase of national ICT policy. Data for the study comprised of semi-structured interviews and policy documents which was analysed using thematic analysis. The results showed that there were barriers related to policy programs, processes, and politics. The programs barriers included inadequate resources, operational problems and differences in interests among policy actors. Process barriers were the lack of legal frameworks and political stability and legitimate policy choices. Political constraints were lack of policy championing, conflicts in goals and values assigned to policy priorities; and government popularity. The study provides insights on ICT policy implementation barriers in the context of a low-income status country.