2. CHALLENGES OF ICT IN NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2.1 INTRODUCTION The broad challenge is to harness the potential of ICTs for economic growth and poverty reduction. Specific challenges include lack of a comprehensive policy and regulatory framework, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient skilled human resources. 2.2 POLICY, LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK Currently, ICT issues are considered under various legislation including: The Science and Technology Act, Cap. 250 of 1977, The Kenya Broadcasting Corporation Act of 1988 and the Kenya Communications Act of 1998, which are inadequate in dealing with issues of convergence, electronic commerce and e-Government. There is need for a comprehensive policy, legal and regulatory framework to: (a) Support ICT development, investment and application; (b) Promote competition in the industry where appropriate; (c) Ensure affordability and access to ICT nationally; (d) Address issues of privacy, e-security, ICT legislation, cyber crimes, ethical and moral conduct, copyrights, intellectual property rights and piracy; (e) Support research and development in ICT; and (f) Develop an institutional framework for policy development and review. 2.3 ICT INFRASTRUCTURE The lack of adequate ICT infrastructure has hampered provision of efficient and affordable ICT services in the country. Emphasis will be placed on: a) Provision of support infrastructure, such as, energy and roads; b) Supporting software development; 4