Mexico govt launches programme to reduce digital divide

Mexico's Federal Government has rolled out a programme designed to enable low-income families to purchase computers and subscribe to internet services. The initiative aims to reduce the digital gap and enable Mexicans to use computers and internet services. According to president Felipe Calderon, during the first decade of the century, internet penetration in Mexico tripled from 9 percent of households in 2000 to nearly 30 percent of families in 2010. Mexico currently has over 33 million internet users. The CompuApoyo project is expected to provide over 1.7 million Mexican households with computers and internet connections. During the first stage of the project, the Infonacot credit scheme will be used to enable workers with incomes below five minimum salaries to purchase a computer and contract internet service. Computers will be available for purchase as of next week. The Federal Government will provide direct support of MXN 1,000, while Infonacot will provide complementary loans of up to MXN 3,500. With support from operators, the Federal Government plans to offer a reduced fee of MXN 99 per month for broadband internet access for at least one year. Direct support totaling MXN 300 will also be provided when internet service is contracted.