There is an on-going discussion on the kictanet list about proposals to completely ban used computers. IMHO, I'm against the ban and the excuses about e-waste or otherwise do not justify a complete ban on used computers. The used computer market has to supplement the new machines market. As an example, about 3 years ago , I wanted a server to do some test deployment before going on a new system. I bought an old compaq server from Evans company, though have never met him. The compaq server helped me quite alot and ran well for about 2 years before it outlived its function so I gave it to a friend who used it to do his test deployment.
All I'm saying, without the option to buy a cheaper server, my test project would not have seen any attempt as getting a new one was not a priority. In a lot of ways, the used computer market has helped many kenyans get IT skills, and there was a time when clones used to dominate the end user market as larger names were only interested in corporate markets. I personally feel that we should not forget the used computer market, how it has helped and made it possible for many. I'm sure it has helped plenty on this list too. I think we need to show some support to the used computer market by echoing our concerns about such a ban.
I hope Evans can make a very strong case against the proposed ban. Is there anyone on this list who has benefited from used computers, share you thoughts. ( BTW, I'm not an importer of such equipment etc. Am just sharing my views on this list ).
Me thots.
Rgds.