Sustainability of ICT4D projects: Case study of mobile cinemas in rural South Africa

Abstract

This paper investigates if the provision of mobile technologies to micro-entrepreneurs (MEs) can lead to the development of business models that support the sustainability of these businesses. A case study was undertaken focusing on 14 MEs participating in the Mosaic2B project - a European research project aimed at developing a framework that use cloud-based applications and low-cost internet to provide entertainment media to disadvantaged communities. The MEs from the Nkangala district in South Africa were provided with technology to download and screen movies in their communities to raise an income. Mixed methods were used to collect data over six months. The data was analysed to identify business models implemented and to determine how sustainable these are. Positive factors and obstacles were identified that affected the sustainability of the business models.