A vital technology: Review of the literature on mobile phone use among pastoralists

Mobile phones fit well into the lives of pastoralists in low-income countries. The technology is firmly integrated most pastoralist communities, affecting and transforming several core activities. Most studies concerned with this relationship, however, have narrow regional thematic foci. complementarity or discrepancy between relevant research unknown, a critical assessment current state lacking. This study identifies, summarizes, analyzes studies, showing that literature attests generally positive influences mobile although some negative effects also occur. Effects on pastoralists' income, environmental externalities, gender roles are not yet sufficiently understood.