The revolutionary changes that have occurred in information technology and the ensuing phenomenon of the digital divide are important aspects of this process. In this study, we analyse the digital divide by looking at it from a peripheral perspective, compared to the developed world, where this revolution has started. Africa and Kenya thus become the changing local context from which we observe the penetration of new technologies as part of the globalisation process.

In Africa, the situation concerning the digital divide, the social gap in the access and use of information technologies and, in particular, the delay in the implementation of the infrastructure required to ensure their availability and use, is inadequate. However, it should be noticed that the globalisation process is contributing to a progressive penetration of new technologies in the African continent. But the population should not only be able to use them - they should also be able to promote, manage and regulate them. This is important because ICT carry major consequences on both social practices and local culture.

This article illustrates a pilot e-learning project for teachers carried out in the Gwassi district, a rural area in Kenya. We start with an overview of the national and local context and go on to consider how culture mediates between the individual and technology. Finally, the paper looks into the local situation and illustrates the context and the strategic issues in which the project stakeholders are working on now.