Information and ICT in Microenterprises : Case of Malawi

This paper presents an assessment of analytical and functional roles of information and ICT on the livelihoods of microenterprises in context of a developing country. Six cases of microenterprises were analysed. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and observations. The results confirmed that ICT supports better access to information for decision making on the livelihoods of microenterprises. However, microenterprises experienced challenges which inhibit their application of ICT in business activities. The main problems were lack of resources and access to ICTs. The study suggest the importance of understanding of the roles of information and ICTs so that appropriate solutions can be developed to mitigate some of the challenges faced by microenterprises and make them more sustainable