IFIP BRINGS WITFOR TO AFRICA
In August 2005, Africa’s largest diamond producer, Botswana, hosted the second prestigious World Information Technology Forum (WITFOR 2005). The first WITFOR was held in Lithuania in 2003.

WITFOR is a major global ICT initiative aimed at accelerating development for the world’s developing countries and countries in transition. To be held in Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, from August 31st to 2nd September, 2005 it will be hosted by the Government of Botswana in collaboration with the International Federation of Information Processing (IFIP), an NGO of UNESCO.

The conference is significant both for Botswana and the rest of the developing world. It will identify ways to accelerate development and bridge the technology divide, leading to tangible benefits.

The eight WITFOR commissions cover the following themes:

· Building the Infrastructure
· Economic opportunity
· Environment
· Health
· Education
· Agriculture
· Social, legal and ethical aspects
· Empowerment and Participation

WITFOR’s spokesperson, Alicia Ramaribana is excited about what WITFOR can achieve. "Decision makers should understand the potential that ICT holds for their businesses and, particularly, in developing and emerging economies. ICT should be seen as an indispensable tool and not a luxury. The major aim of WITFOR is to communicate this message in the form of case studies and implementable projects” she points out.

WITFOR has a number of aims. It wants to stimulate research and development, as well as the application of ICT processes, on a global scale. It acts as a forum where ICT practitioners can plan international strategies. It brings together NGOs, governments, academics, individuals and professional organisations, with a focus on the needs of developing nations. WITFOR will also formulate IT education and training programs, and help set international standards for IT development and application.

For more information on the World Information Technology Forum Botswana 2005 visit the website on WWW.WITFOR.ORG.BW