Qualifying Beneficiaries

Everyone in Africa wants computers—even communities that could not possibly sustain a program. Why? Computers are seen as an expensive "magical machine" that somehow brings progress when it is put on a desk and plugged in. In some village homes old broken computers are kept in a prominent place as a sign of family wealth—dutifully dusted and "doilied" on top.

It is not surprising, then, that most schools want a computer lab whether it’s a good idea or not. Spending money on computers and maintaining them is a poor investment for communities struggling to provide even basic shelter for students or staff. In these cases, computers would be a liability, not an asset. After the initial fanfare the program would likely not be sustained. Consequently, a CFA staff member confers with trusted community leaders and then visits potential beneficiaries to assess whether they are ready for an ICT program.