In its Strategic Plan and Framework for Action 2001-2005, CTA calls for (a) the development of IT-based communication and information services (in particular through the Internet and in CD-ROM format) allowing its partners to exchange information, network and collaborate effectively; and (b) the increased decentralization of its communication and information services to its partners in ACP countries, i.e. regional agricultural networks and information services in the private and public sectors.

For this year's Observatory meeting, CTA would like to focus on an exploration of feasible wireless connectivity solutions that could facilitate CTA's partners in ACP countries to upload and download information via the Internet on agricultural and rural development from CTA and partner organisations. Expected outputs of the meeting include the formulation of pragmatic, strategic advice on (i) support to its partners required to apply wireless connectivity solutions; and (ii) how CTA might adjust itself to optimally use wireless connectivity solutions to further decentralise its work to ACP countries.

This year, the programme of the consultative meeting starts on Thursday 31st May with four public lectures from 09:00 to 12:30 hrs by well-known policy makers and experts in the field of wireless communication. The speakers will discuss innovative, practical solutions for direct Internet via satellites that are feasible in areas where such access is poor, unreliable or otherwise not available. This open session is of particular relevance for those interested in ICTs policies for development, and in particular in pioneering connectivity solutions for development organizations in ACP countries. For logistical reasons, if you would like to attend the public session, please a short email to scheepers@cta.nl.