Empowering community-driven connectivity in Murombedzi through innovative infrastructure development and collaborative digital initiatives

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to establish a community-driven digital ecosystem in Murombedzi, to harness local leadership, participation, and resources to address connectivity challenges. To achieve this systematically, Key connectivity challenges were identified first through the participation of a representative sample to ensure that the solutions would address real challenges being experienced and so be relevant. Secondly the solutions were co-created by the involvement of community members in the research, including local leadership, technology experts and local organizations. Thirdly, the critical components essential for the successful adoption of community driven digital initiatives were explored. Lastly the benefits to Murombedzi for adopting community driven initiatives were unveiled. To achieve the objectives, the study embraced a participative model. A mixed method approach was used. A sample of 371 participants was employed for the questionnaire which was used as the primary instrument. This was supported by in depth interviews with participants who had more knowledge on the subject under study. A response rate of 90% was achieved. The study found that slow internet speeds, interruptions in power supply and inadequate infrastructure were key connectivity challenges in Murombedzi. On finding solutions to the key challenges, digital literacy and skills development programs, community fundraising for digital Infrastructure, partnerships with different organizations like non-governmental organizations that promote digital inclusion initiatives, seeking government or donor funding to support community-led connectivity, were found to be suitable in addressing the connectivity challenges in Murombedzi. The study found community engagement, government support, continuous up grading and working together with policy makers and PORTRAZ to be critical components essential for the successful adoption of a community driven connectivity model in Murombedzi. Lastly the benefits of a community driven model found were that it would lead to sustainable digital connectivity, equitable rural digital inclusion, create jobs and increase employment prospects through digital skills and literacy programs and this would eventually lead to local development. In conclusion, actionable recommendations from a technology expert were given to guide the community objectively in their choice of digital connectivity initiatives to adopt