An Equity-based Model of Vandalism in Information and Communication for Development Tele-Centre’s: Reflections from the Siyakhula Living Laboratory, Dwesa-Cwebe, South Africa

Abstract

This study looks at tele-center related vandalism from an equity-based lens. It is noticed that these uncivil acts are common occurrences in information and communication for development (ICT4D) related tele-centers around the globe. Paradoxically, there is very little investigation on the issue. Here an equity-based model of vandalism proposed by Fisher & Baron is used to investigate incidences of vandalism and theft in a rural based ICT4D initiative known as the Siyakhula Living Lab (SLL). The model provides explanation value for the empirical investigation. The study employs a qualitative abductive reasoning approach to gain insight from stakeholders of the ICT4D initiative. For this study four stakeholders of the ICT4D initiative are interviewed, with the help of a semi-structured interview guide. Their responses are thematically analyzed and as a result a narrative emerges about the relationship between inequity and vandalism in the SLL context. The findings reveal that noticed occurrences of vandalism to publicly installed ICT infrastructure as well as a theft incident to an SLL established tele-center, were highly likely as a result of perceived inequity by certain groups in the surrounding communities. It is revealed that due to their existing low level of control at the time of the study, these groups felt compelled to resort to vandalism and theft in order to address the perceived inequity. It is concluded that inequity can indeed spur acts of vandalism especially for groups that perceive themselves as disenfranchised and powerless.