Technology is the cornerstone of modern society, affecting every aspect of our lives. From healthcare to entertainment, and from communication to transportation, technology has revolutionized the way we live, work, and interact with each other. Its impact on economic development cannot be overstated, as it has opened up new markets, created new industries, and transformed regions in Africa. The widespread adoption of technology has changed the way we think about business and entrepreneurship and has created new opportunities for growth and innovation. However numerous rural areas have struggled to keep up with the rapid pace of technological advancements that have become widespread in other regions.

The lack of access to modern technologies has had serious implications for these communities and has resulted in a digital divide that has impacted everything from education and healthcare to economic growth. This divide has become wider in recent years, as more and more individuals in cities and urban areas gain access to technology that is simply not available in many rural locations. One such case is the iLembe district in South Africa which reveals the extent of Technological Disparity in rural areas.

With a population of roughly 606,000 (Owusu-Ansah, n.d.), The iLembe District Municipality is a small but significant region on the east coast of South Africa, located in the KwaZulu-Natal Province. It is a primarily rural area known for its agricultural activities with many people in these areas relying on traditional livelihoods, including farming, livestock rearing, and subsistence farming. The region's fertile soils and favorable climate support the cultivation of various crops, such as sugarcane, maize, vegetables, and fruits.

However, the rural communities in the iLembe district have long been neglected in terms of technological advancements and development. Access to technology and development is crucial for the growth and well-being of any community, regardless of their location or socio-economic status. Despite several promises made by the South African government over the years, rural communities continue to suffer from inadequate infrastructure and face significant challenges in meeting the needs of their residents.

The rural area of iLembe faces several challenges that limit their progress and development. One of the key challenges is the lack of necessary infrastructure to support the implementation and use of technology. Without reliable electricity, internet connectivity, and telecommunication networks, rural communities are unable to leverage the benefits of technology. This not only affects their economic growth but also limits their access to critical services such as healthcare, education, and banking.

Access to high-speed internet remains a significant challenge in rural areas. Limited or unreliable internet connectivity restricts access to online resources, digital services, and communication platforms. This hampers the ability of rural residents to fully leverage technology for education, employment, and healthcare opportunities that are often only available online. In addition to hindering economic and social progress, lack of high-speed internet also exacerbates the rural-urban digital divide, limiting the extent to which rural residents can participate in the modern digital economy.

Technological devices and services can be expensive, making them less affordable for individuals in rural areas, who may have lower incomes or limited financial resources. The high cost of devices, internet subscriptions, and maintenance can create barriers to technology adoption and use in rural communities. As a result, many people in these areas lack access to the benefits that technology can provide, such as telemedicine, remote employment, and online education. This issue is compounded by the fact that many rural areas in iLembe also lack the necessary infrastructure

In today's digital age, having digital literacy and skills is crucial, the lack of digital literacy or skills is a significant issue that affects many individuals residing in rural areas. Oftentimes, these residents may not have had access to adequate training or exposure to effectively operate and navigate technology. As a result, their ability to access valuable information, utilize digital services, and participate in the digital economy is severely restricted. This digital divide has created a significant barrier to progress for individuals living in rural areas and must be addressed in a meaningful way.

Rural schools located in remote areas have struggled to keep pace with technological advancements and access to qualified, tech-savvy teachers who can effectively integrate technology into the curriculum. This poses a significant challenge for students in these areas, who are already disadvantaged by a lack of access to the same resources and opportunities available to their urban counterparts. The lack of investment in educational infrastructure in remote areas only exacerbates the problem further, resulting in stark disparities in digital skills development and overall educational attainment. These challenges have far-reaching implications for the future of these communities and demand immediate attention from policymakers, educators, and stakeholders alike.

Many efforts have been made to address the digital divide in the rural areas of the iLembe district, such as government initiatives and non-profit organizations. However, these efforts have not been sufficient in ensuring universal access to technology. Several challenges still need to be addressed, including inadequate network infrastructure and limited digital literacy among rural populations. It is crucial to recognize these barriers and prioritize the development of targeted solutions to bridge the gap in technological access and ensure equal opportunities for all.