Connectivity Africa and Catalysing Access to Information and Communication Technologies in Africa (CATIA) are two initiatives that came out of the G8 Dot Force deliberations. Although the two programs are different in nature and objectives, a joint Advisory Committee helps ensure potential synergies and prevent duplication of effort. The Advisory Committee tries to meet every three months with a view to providing strategic guidance, discussing the latest developments and ensuring that both programs are meeting their stated objectives. The first and second joint meetings were held with support from projects 103103 and 102547. The third will be held in Johannesburg, South Africa, 2 August 2006. This grant will allow three individuals to attend the meeting.

To support the attendance of Connectivity Africa's (CA) advisors to the Third joint CA and Catalysing Access to ICTs in Africa (CATIA) Advisory Committee Meeting.

To discuss and provide input on project progress and on any emerging issues;

to follow-up on the recommendations of the last advisory meeting that took place in Dakar in April 2005;

to review the work plan of CA for the next year;

to identify and discuss any opportunities CA could implement in order to better achieve its objectives; and

to identify potential partnership opportunities.