Tackling the ICT Infrastructure Gap for the Successful Implementation of E-Government Projects

Abstract

This article describes how the promised transformative reform agenda of e-government is challenged particularly due to the lack or non-availability of adequate ICT infrastructure and finances to successfully develop and implement e-government projects around the world. The One Belt One Road (B&R) strategy spearheaded by the Chinese Government has been identified as a potential funding source for e-government projects through ICT infrastructure investment. Adequate ICT infrastructure investment in member countries under the Belt and Road initiatives could reduce the huge ICT infrastructure gap hampering the execution of e-government programs. This article, therefore, recommends the formation of the Belt and Road ICT Infrastructure Investment Fund (B&R ICT Infrastructure Fund) under the OBOR strategy to allow member countries to source funds for the execution of e-government projects. This will not only drastically increase the completion/success rate of e-government projects but also translate into improved public service delivery and enhanced government interaction—engagement—with citizens and businesses.