This interactive debate will focus on how ICT can enable rural enterprises to become means of poverty reduction and sustainable rural development. It will also address how governments, international organizations, the private sector and civil society can contribute to these ends. Key questions include:

• How can ICT help reduce transaction cost and improve decision making in rural value chains?

• What ICT tools and applications have proven the most useful in the rural environment, and why?

• What challenges do rural enterprises face in adapting ICT for positive gains?

• What success stories are emerging?

• How can government policies become more effective in creating an enabling environment?

• How do partnerships contribute to rural enterprises sustainable use of ICTs?

*English & French interpretation will be made available.

For more information, please contact:

Ms. C�cile Barayre (cecile.barayre@unctad.org)