Rich-poor 'digital divide' still broad, says UNCTAD

The digital divide between rich and poor countries is narrowing as mobile phones and internet use become more available. But the developing world still lags far behind, a UN report said. The UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) said mobile...

The digital divide between rich and poor countries is narrowing as mobile phones and internet use become more available. But the developing world still lags far behind, a UN report said.

The UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) said mobile phone subscribers have almost tripled in developing countries over the last five years, and now make up some 58 per cent of mobile subscribers worldwide.

"In Africa, where the increase in terms of the number of mobile phone subscribers and penetration has been greatest, this technology can improve the economic life of the population as a whole," it said.

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