For the first time, Rwanda and Zambia are broadcasting presidential campaigns and parliamentary polls using IP (Internet Protocol) teleconferencing technology and Internet broadcasting technologies.

Rwanda is also installing the technology in all of the country's public institutions to enable video conferencing of meetings, while the Zambian government is installing it in major hospitals across the country to help doctor and students consult with one another remotely.

Rwanda plans that governors and mayors throughout the country will be able to hold meetings through video conferencing by 2009.

In the meantime, IP teleconferencing technology has been deployed by the Rwanda Information Technology Authority (RITA) to broadcast election proceedings on television. In Zambia, radio station Q-FM is broadcasting via Internet and satellite.

"We have seen how convergence technology can be used to enhance the broadcasting industry and to create a digital media based on modern technologies," said RITA executive director Nkubito Bakuramutsa.

Zambia is holding presidential elections next month, while Rwanda is holding parliamentary elections.