Archive for category: Technology

Information and stories about technology news.

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The Evolution of Uruguay’s Technological Infrastructure

Uruguay’s technological infrastructureUruguay boasts a technology literacy rate of more than 98%, the highest in South America, with telecommunications networks that are 100% digital. Between 2021 and 2022, Uruguay’s imports of IT and telecommunications equipment surged from $549 million to $706 million. Here are some key factors in Uruguay’s technological infrastructure that have earned it the name “Silicon Valley of South America.”

Expanding Fiber Optic Infrastructure in Rural Areas

In 2021 and 2022, ANTEL, Uruguay’s largest telecommunications company, invested $161 million into the country’s telecommunication sector, with 80% of that allocated to expanding fiber optic infrastructure in rural areas. ANTEL currently holds 57% of the market share, followed by Spain’s Telefónica/Movistar with 26% and Mexico’s Claro with 17%. The company is focused on replacing outdated copper connections with fiber optic technology. This aims to improve and strengthen internet access, particularly in the country’s rural regions.

The 2025 Digital Agenda

In May of 2021, Uruguay approved a guideline for further digital developments called the “2025 Digital Agenda,” which is managed by the Knowledge Management Agency. This will open doors to more opportunities for hardware and software providers, as well as telecommunication and network service companies. The basis of the plan is to expand the “fiber-to-the-home” networks to remote locations.  Additionally, the plan looks to increase the range of 5G networks and new digital health services.

Programa Ibirapitá

This program in Uruguay focuses on the digital inclusion of older adults, aiming to improve social inclusion, participation and equity. Through workshops designed to increase digital literacy and consultations, the initiative empowers elderly individuals. The program specifically targets individuals aged 65 and above whose annual income is at most $30,885. These participants are granted access to mobile devices through the Ibirapitá Mobile Plan, a service provided by ANTEL, which helps bridge the digital divide and fosters greater connectivity and independence for older adults.

Plan Ceibal

In 2007, Uruguay launched a program aimed at promoting nationwide digital literacy and skill development by providing each student with access to a laptop in school. This initiative became a key part of the country’s education strategy. Furthermore, it has been supported by tax incentives for tech companies and significant investments in communications infrastructure. Furthermore, the program has helped bridge the digital divide and enhance technological skills among students across the country.

Looking Ahead

Uruguay’s next step in its technological evolution is focusing on the “Internet of Things” (IoT). Development will be driven by both public and private stakeholders. Indeed, these efforts are taking place in the “Open Digital Lab,” a dedicated test space for IoT technologies and their applications. As the country continues to grow and expand its technological capabilities, discussions around artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics have become more prevalent, reflecting Uruguay’s ongoing push to enhance its telecommunications infrastructure and embrace emerging technologies.

– Isabella Chavez

Isabella is based in Swampscott, MA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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5 Ways Renewable Energy Can Transform Developing Countries

5 Ways Renewable Energy Can Transform Developing CountriesAccording to Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF), 2017 saw an unprecedented global rise in demand for renewable energy. Renewable energy production in developing countries has now surpassed the capacity generated by fossil sources. Focusing on Goal 7 (affordable and clean energy), Leonardo Souza from the Statistics Division of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) highlighted key points from the special edition of the Secretary-General’s report on progress toward the SDGs. He reported that nearly 2 billion people will still rely on polluting fuels and technologies for cooking by 2030. He also noted that renewable sources comprised 19% of global final energy consumption in 2020, with two-thirds coming from modern renewable energy sources.

Global Efforts for Sustainable Energy

Moving toward sustainable modern energy will require renewable sources to constitute 60% of power generation by 2030, supporting resilient industry and infrastructure in developing countries. The World Bank, which currently has a $10 billion portfolio in energy projects, supported Nigeria’s electrification program that has transformed the country. Accelerating global electrification will necessitate a fundamental shift in the conception of energy access.

5 Ways Renewable Energy Transforms Developing Countries

  1. Economic Growth. Renewable energy positively impacts economic growth in developing countries by enhancing sustainable development and energy security. The clean development mechanism, as part of the Kyoto Protocol under the UNFCCC, promotes the deployment of renewable energy technologies, which helps mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Developed nations fund these renewable energy programs, facilitating the adoption of green technology in developing regions. This transition not only reduces dependency on fossil fuels but also creates job opportunities and stimulates local economies. Despite challenges such as higher manufacturing costs and lack of financial resources, increasing the reliance on renewable energy sources is crucial for developing countries’ growth and economic stability.
  1. Create Employment Opportunities. Renewable energy positively impacts job creation in developing countries by fostering labor-intensive industries and providing numerous employment opportunities. Unlike traditional fossil fuels, renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power require more labor per megawatt of energy produced. This increased labor intensity translates to more jobs in producing and maintaining renewable energy infrastructure. Energy efficiency improvements, which often rely on unskilled labor in the construction sector, can further boost employment. These opportunities are particularly attractive for developing countries, where job creation is crucial for economic growth.
  1. Improve Health Outcomes. Studies reveal that increased renewable energy consumption enhances the quality of life in low-income African countries. This improvement can be attributed to the environmentally friendly nature of renewable energy. Alternative energy sources can reduce pollution and mitigate climate change, leading to better health conditions. By incorporating a substantial amount of renewable energy into their energy mix, these countries can achieve sustainable development goals related to good health and well-being. This, in turn, encourages economic growth, as healthier populations are more productive and can contribute more effectively to the economy. Thus, renewable energy not only supports environmental sustainability but also drives economic development by enhancing public health.
  1. Reduce Environmental Impact. By exploiting clean energy sources like solar, wind and geothermal, countries are decreasing their reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, this also leads to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. This not only improves air quality by reducing pollution and associated health issues but also contributes to global climate change mitigation. Additionally, the implementation of renewable energy helps preserve natural resources and promotes a more sustainable use of the environment, which is crucial for long-term sustainable development.
  1. Enhance Energy Security. By adopting renewable energy sources such as hydroelectric power, developing countries have reduced their dependence on imported fossil fuels, which are often subject to price volatility and supply disruptions. This shift not only ensures a more consistent energy supply but also supports economic stability and growth. Additionally, renewable energy projects create local jobs, stimulating economic development and providing employment opportunities. The environmental benefits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, further contribute to the sustainability of these nations. Renewable energy systems are more resilient to natural disasters. Indeed, they can be deployed in remote areas, ensuring reliable energy access to underserved communities.

Looking Ahead

Renewable energy holds significant transformative potential for developing countries. By adopting solar, wind and hydroelectric power, these nations can drive economic growth. Furthermore, initiatives will create jobs, improve health outcomes, reduce environmental impact and enhance energy security. As these countries seek sustainable solutions for their energy needs, renewable energy emerges as a promising and transformative approach that can potentially lead to a brighter and more sustainable future.

– Maria Urioste

Maria is based in Maspeth, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Growth of Telemedicine in Peru

Telemedicine in PeruThe COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the global shift to telehealth, enabling health care professionals and patients to connect remotely. However, resource disparities meant some countries faced greater challenges in transitioning. The shift to telemedicine was particularly difficult in Peru, which borders Chile and Bolivia, due to limited infrastructure and internet access, especially in rural areas.

Background of Telemedicine in Peru

Peru’s health system is divided into three practices, the first one being Social Security Hospitals (SSH), the second being the Federal Government Hospitals (FGH) and then private hospitals. The growth of internet access in Peru started in 2005. That year the first regulatory document related to telehealth was approved by the “Supreme Decree No. 028-2005-MTC.” Furthermore, in 2009, the first technical standards were approved to set guidelines for these online services. Later, in 2016, a framework was set for expanding telehealth, such as the ability to fill out prescriptions online.

When the pandemic hit, the full force of telemedicine and telecommunication services was set into motion. However, Peru is divided into three main geographical regions: the Coast, the Peruvian Andes and the Jungle. Internet access remains limited across these areas, with only 63.3% of residents on the Coast, 36% in the Andes and 33% in the Jungle having connectivity. This disparity poses a significant challenge to the advancement of telemedicine, as limited internet access hinders the reach of digital health care services to remote and underserved communities.

What Is Being Done?

“Teleatiendo,” created by the Ministry of Health of Peru, provides online consultations for those seeking virtual health care services. Other online resources, such as the “Cayetano Heredia National Hospital” teleconsultation application, specifically support diabetic patients. Looking toward the future, the incoming candidates for Congress and the presidential seat have promised to work on making the Internet more available nationwide.

Peru has the highest internet costs in Latin America, posing a barrier to equal access, especially in telemedicine advancements. More structured frameworks are being set in motion for mobile health apps (mHealth) based on different evaluations, such as effectiveness and security. Due to 60% of the population being in a lower socioeconomic sphere, accessing these technologies is difficult. However, the “WiLD multihop network” could improve connectivity in underserved areas, making health care access more feasible for those in remote or low-income communities.

Partners in Health

Partners in Health is an organization dedicated to creating “preferential options” for the impoverished in health care. The organization has developed seven telemedicine applications to improve health care access, each tailored to specific needs:

  1. Bienestár: Provides free mental health screenings and connects users to specialized psychologists.
  2. KUSKA: Offers similar mental health support but is available in Quechua, catering to Peru’s indigenous population.
  3. Soy Qhalikay: Detects type 2 diabetes and hypertension, prompting follow-up care from nursing and nutrition teams.
  4. Chatea con tu Nutri: Connects users to health facilities focused on diet and exercise improvements.
  5. ALMA: Supports breast cancer prevention by providing free mammograms to at-risk women.
  6. GESTamor: Assists pregnant individuals with referrals for prenatal care and health monitoring.
  7. CASITA: Offers free screenings and educational resources to detect infant developmental delays, with training and support for caregivers.

Each app is vital in expanding health care access across different demographics in Peru.

The Future of Telemedicine in Peru

As telemedicine expands in Peru, so does the push for broader internet access, ensuring that all citizens can access essential health care. Significant progress has been made in recent years, with the trajectory continuing upward as internet availability increases and telemedicine gains a stronger foothold in the country. These advancements promise a future where health care is more accessible and inclusive for all Peruvians.

– Isabella Chavez

Isabella is Swampscott, MA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Tackling Malnutrition with Sanku’s Dosifier Technology

Sanku’s dosifier technologyFood insecurity and malnutrition remain critical global issues, with 821 million people worldwide suffering. Among the most affected regions are countries like Nigeria, Somalia, Yemen and South Sudan. Malnutrition affects 52 million children under 5, with $3.6 billion needed annually to combat the issue. To combat this, Sanku is using innovative technology with fortified flour and equipping small-scale flour mills in Africa. By doing so, it is bringing essential nutrients to millions of people in some of the most vulnerable communities. 

The Problem of Micronutrient Malnutrition

Micronutrient malnutrition, often referred to as ‘hidden hunger,’ affects 2 billion people globally. This type of malnutrition results from a lack of essential vitamins and minerals, which can lead to severe health issues. In rural communities in Africa, where poverty rates in Africa are high, nutritious food is limited. In Tanzania, 95% of the population, more than 50 million people, do not benefit from large-scale food fortification programs because they rely on small-scale mills that cannot fortify their flour. These people mainly consume maize flour. Maize flour, although calorie-dense, is nutritionally low. This, in turn, makes them susceptible to preventable diseases and increased mortality rates. 

Sanku’s Innovative Dosifier

Sanku’s solution to this is its award-winning dosifier, a device designed specifically for small rural mills in East Africa. The dosifier adds precise amounts of critical nutrients such as iron, zinc, folic acid and vitamin B12 to the calorie-dense maize flour during the milling process. By partnering with local millers, the organization ensures that the fortified flour reaches those who need it most. Sanku has installed nearly 500 dosifiers across 400 mills in Tanzania and Kenya and, therefore, provides this fortified flour to 7.1 million people. The dosifier allows millers to sell the fortified flour at the same price as unfortified flour. 

Leveraging IoT

To further expand its reach, Sanku had partnered with Vodafone, incorporating Internet of Things (IoT) technology into its dosifiers. This partnership allows for real-time monitoring of the fortification process, ensuring they are working effectively. With Vodafone’s IoT SIM cards, one Sanku working can now monitor 100 mills, fortifying flour for 500,000 people. This real-time data helps Sanku track maintenance needs, power supply and fortification levels remotely. Moreover, Vodafone’s mobile payment service, M-Pesa, simplifies financial transactions for millers, making it easier for them to purchase fortification premix. 

Reaching Millions

Sanku’s ambition is to reach 25 million people in East Africa by 2025, ultimately preventing malnutrition-based diseases, In 2023, the organization also launched a nutrient-premix facility in Tanzania, giving it more control over its supply chain and reducing cost. Sanku’s impact extends beyond just health improvements. By providing fortified flour to vulnerable communities, the organization saves billions in GDP and helps boost productivity. In 2019, Sanku’s dosifier technology was recognized by Time Magazine as one of the top 100 inventions of 2019, highlighting its potential to transform food insecurity globally. 

Vision 2030

Sanku’s long-term goal is to reach 100 million people with fortified flour by 2030. The organization is already scaling its efforts beyond Tanzania and Kenya with plans to expand into Malawi and Rwanda. With the continued support of partners like Vodafone, it is set to make a significant dent in global malnutrition. Sanku’s dosifier technology represents a breakthrough in the fight against hidden hunger by enabling small-scale mills to fortify flour with essential micronutrients. With ambitious plans to scale further and reach 100 million people by 2030, Sanku is on its way to making a lasting impact on global food security. 

– Ellisha Hicken

Ellisha is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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IT Supporting Rural Livelihood in India

Rural Livelihood in IndiaTechnological advancements in the past decades have widened the gap between the rich and the needy. The lack of access to the internet and Information Technology (IT) resources hinders the growth of a considerable percentage of India’s population. However, IT supporting rural livelihood in India has slowly manifested through the combined efforts of private and public sector initiatives.

Mission 2007: Every Village a Knowledge Center

IT supporting rural livelihood in India has been expected to act as a viable option. IT can be used for various purposes like predicting weather conditions and market prices for farming along with gaining useful knowledge and skills. To materialize this, Mission 2007 was initiated in 2003 by an alliance of 150 organizations to avail the benefits of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) dedicated to human well-being in rural areas.

The Jamsetji Tata National Virtual Academy (NVA) for Rural Prosperity and the Jamsetji Tata Training School (JTS) for Leadership in Rural Knowledge Connectivity were established to support and fuel this IT revolution. They aim to provide IT access and training to more than a million rural people and encourage them by enabling them to enhance their livelihood with the help of IT skills.

The National Virtual Academy

Established in 2003 under the M S Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), the NVA aims to train “grassroots workers” to use ICTs to enable them to be responsible for their development and “to build skills and capacities relevant to enhancing opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.” Alongside providing training in ICTs, the NVA also facilitates the recognition of rural people who have mastered ICTs and are using their skills to guide the betterment of villages.

The NVA aims to materialize access to “work, income and health security” like e-governance, e-commerce, e-literacy and e-health in rural areas. The initiative seeks to establish a “two-way linkage” communication system, where scientists share information on agriculture and technological advancements with rural communities while rural people provide insights into traditional farming methods. This exchange helps scientists develop sustainable farming practices that integrate both modern and traditional knowledge.

The NVA also facilitates “lateral communication” to enable people within rural areas to share their knowledge and expertise with other rural people through technological means. It, therefore, functions as a “participatory knowledge hub,” tying traditional wisdom with modern science. In 2006, the initiative recognized the achievements of 77 people from across 11 states in India, highlighting its impact in rural areas.

Jamsetji Tata Training School

The JTS aims to provide training on computer applications to rural workers at the grassroots level. It also aims to create virtual platforms to develop learning environments where rural people can learn need-based skills and competencies to gain knowledge specific to their area of work. The JTS is similar to the NVA in its primary aims and objectives and helps further build NVA’s initiatives by equipping people with Village Knowledge Centers (VKCs), Village Resource Centers (VRCs) and Knowledge Hub Consortiums (KHCs) to encourage centralized learning environments.

Some other efforts by JTS include organizing workshops between scientists and NVA fellows, addressing issues at the grassroots level with government agencies, providing training on computer applications and developing virtual platforms for learning.

Conclusion

In 2019, 41% of India’s population, amounting to approximately 574 million people, had access to the internet. Among this, 307 million internet users belonged to the urban population and 264 million people belonged to the rural population. As of 2023, 55% of India’s population, amounting to 821 million people, have access to the internet. Among these, a higher percentage of internet users come from rural areas (442 million) than urban areas (378 million). As a result of initiatives like those mentioned above, India has experienced significant growth in IT access across the country, particularly in rural areas. IT supporting rural livelihood in India is now not only a dream but a reality.

– Adya Umesh

Adya is based in Bangalore, Karnataka, India and focuses on Good News, Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Brighter Future: Solar Energy in Bangladesh

Solar Energy in BangladeshNearly 85% of Bangladesh’s power comes from fossil fuels. Oil and gas prices have exponentially increased recently, leading to inflation and unaffordability. Bangladesh, with its population growing annually by 1%, sees its energy demand increase by approximately 4.7% each year. The nation primarily relies on natural gas, oil, coal and diesel for its energy needs. However, recent spikes in energy prices, driven by global factors, have prompted a shift toward renewable energy. The Bangladeshi government aims to produce 4,100 MW of clean energy by 2030 as part of its strategy to adapt to these ongoing challenges and ensure sustainable growth.

Persistent Power Outages and Infrastructure Challenges

Bangladesh faces significant challenges with its electrical infrastructure, severely affecting the quality of life due to frequent and prolonged blackouts. Residents report random power outages that can last more than 10 hours, exemplified by the 2022 national blackout that lasted seven hours. In 2010, the government mandated the installation of solar panels on residential and commercial buildings. However, due to the installation of low-quality panels at that time, many buildings now have unusable, uninspected solar installations. Additionally, the outdated grid infrastructure struggles to support renewable energy sources, posing further challenges for the government. Despite these obstacles, the Bangladeshi government remains committed to investing in renewable energy sources to improve the situation.

Initiatives and Progress in Renewable Energy

Here are the steps Bangladesh is taking to clean its energy:

  1. Bangladesh is part of the Paris Agreement, which focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Part of its plan for implementing renewable energy is developing eco-friendly industrial zones and parks, with the inclusion of solar energy and wastewater management. The country is also increasing its reliance on biomass, wind and solar energy.
  2. Bangladesh invests in renewable energy through the RERED (Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Development) project. In the past 20 years, the RERED program has allowed electrical access to more than 20 million people across Bangladesh. The RERED Program has majorly focused on rural electrification, meaning that urban electrification is still a focus of the Bangladeshi Government.
  3. Bangladesh has agreed to produce at least 40% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2041, pledging to the Climate Vulnerable Forum. Currently at 3.7%, the majority of it comes from solar energy.
  4. Geographically, Bangladesh is less suited for hydro or wind energy. The country is well suited for photovoltaic (PV) energy, as it has high solar irradiation levels. This is also an option that could be well-distributed across the country, allowing for consistent accessibility.
  5. Captive solar rooftops are emerging as a leading energy source in Bangladesh, demonstrating notable success. Another renewable energy initiative, Solar Independent Power Producers (IPPs), is also being implemented, although it requires large landmasses, which Bangladesh lacks. Despite this, captive solar rooftops are currently yielding more promising results in the country.
  6. Since 2003, Bangladesh has partnered with the Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL) to participate in its Solar Home System (SHS) program, which successfully installed 4.13 million SHSs by 2019. Over the last five years, the installation of solar home systems has expanded. However, as rural electrification has become more widespread, the focus has now shifted toward enhancing solar energy use in urban areas within Bangladesh.

The Future Outlook

Bangladesh is advancing in its quest to secure reliable electricity and energy sources, aiming to achieve 40% renewable energy by 2041—a target that now appears promising.

– Lakshya Anand

Lakshya is based in Bellevue, WA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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AuREUS Solar Panels: A Solution to Food Waste in Communities

AuREUS Solar Panels: A Solution to Food Waste in CommunitiesAuREUS Solar Panels, invented by Carvey Mehren Maigue, convert UV radiation into electricity using food waste. Maigue, during a Dyson interview, expressed his desire to make clean technology accessible in the Philippines. “I would like to help people access clean technology in the Philippines,” he said.

Agricultural Waste and Its Consequences for Farmers

According to a 2021 report by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) United Kingdom (U.K.) and Tesco, global food waste totals 1.2 billion tonnes annually, representing 15.3% of produced food, equivalent to $370 million in value. Research by the No Hungry Children Organization suggests this could feed 37 million people for a month. On farms, between 22,000 and 37,000 tonnes of produce go to waste annually, enough to provide 150,000 to 250,000 people with five daily portions of fruits and vegetables for a year. Factors contributing to food waste include environmental challenges, changing food standards, product mishandling and shifts in retail demands, most of which are beyond farmers’ control.

AuREUS Solar Panel Function

The same technology derived from the phenomena that govern the beautiful Northern and Southern lights powers AuREUS, a system using luminescent particles similar to those found in fruits and vegetables. These particles, when struck by high-energy particles like gamma or UV rays, absorb and emit visible light. AuREUS features two products: the Borealis Solar Window and the Astralis Solar Wall. Both incorporate a layer of organic luminescent extracted from food waste suspended in a resin substrate.

Photovoltaic (PV) cells, crucial to solar panels, line the edges of these devices. When UV radiation hits, the luminescent particles emit light toward the PV cells, converting it into electricity. This electricity can then be redirected to storage, batteries or immediate use. Unlike traditional solar panels, AuREUS panels can be installed vertically and capture UV radiation even on cloudy days due to their ability to harness UV light without direct sunlight. In 2019, AuREUS was implemented in building settings and its innovative design earned Carvey Ehren Maigue the first-ever James Dyson Sustainability Award in 2020.

A Potential Solution

AuREUS technology, leveraging crops from agricultural communities, enables farmers to upcycle waste from farming and retailing processes. This innovation helps farmers mitigate significant losses and manage risks more effectively. Moreover, AuREUS solar panels harness UV radiation, a clean and unlimited energy source, which can reduce daily living costs for farmers. Additionally, these panels help decrease food waste, contributing to climate change mitigation.

Currently under research and testing for broader applications such as mass production and public transportation, AuREUS Solar Panels have shown promise in early studies. Out of 78 crops tested, nine exhibited high potential, with red, orange, yellow and green hues serving as potential dyes containing the necessary luminescent particles. Ongoing research aims to optimize material extraction from crops, aspiring to reach 100% efficiency compared to the current 80%, which could revolutionize crop utilization in agricultural communities.

Looking Ahead

The development of AuREUS Solar Panels represents a breakthrough in sustainable energy and waste reduction. By turning agricultural byproducts into functional technology, the panels offer a creative approach to addressing both energy needs and food waste. As research progresses, this innovation could open new possibilities for renewable power generation and resource use, enhancing both environmental sustainability and economic benefits for agricultural communities.

– Jimmy Nguyen

Jimmy is based in Savannah, GA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Novissi Platform: 6 Components of Togo’s Future Program

Novissi Platform: 6 Components of Togo's Future Program Togo, a West African nation with a population of 8 million, saw nearly 22% of its population requiring humanitarian assistance in 2020. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Togo launched the Novissi emergency cash transfer program, which proved highly effective. This program targeted the poorest 100 cantons, enabling vulnerable individuals to access contactless social protection payments. Indeed, by 2021, it facilitated 170,278 mobile money accounts and added 57,000 new beneficiaries, marking it a key strategy in combating poverty in Togo. Building on the success of the Novissi platform, Togo introduced the Interoperable Social Information System. The aim of the new system is to further prioritize social protection through enhanced cybersecurity and data protection. The new social assistance system comprises six core components.

6 Components of Togo’s Future Program

  1. National Identification System. Togo plans to implement a national biometric ID system for every citizen aged 5 and above. This system will enable the country to deploy targeted interventions for those suffering from poverty.
  2. Social Registry. Togo will introduce a new social registry using AI to assess the needs of its population. Furthermore, it will guide those who meet the criteria into social safety net programs.
  3. Direct Payment Platform. Inspired by the Novissi platform, a more advanced direct payment platform will be established to facilitate high-volume benefit transfers quickly to beneficiaries.
  4. Data Lab Policymaking. A Data Lab in Lomé will manage data and AI to craft policies. The lab will evaluate the system adeptly and monitor efficiency effectively.
  5. Cybersecurity. As Togo embraces new cybersecurity measures, the government has established an agency to oversee cybercrime prevention and contribute to new data protection legislation.
  6. Partnerships. Togo collaborates with the World Economic Forum as part of the EDISON Alliance Lighthouse Countries Network. The collaboration aims to advance digital inclusion and accessibility, making health care, education and finance easily accessible on digital platforms.

Digital Aid Boosts Rural Economy in Togo

Eric Dossekpli, a middle-aged farmer in rural Togo, faced challenges in affording fertilizers for his crops and meeting the basic needs of his family of eight. Through the Novissi platform, he received a cash transfer that alleviated some of his financial pressures. The success of the Novissi program has paved the way for the new Interoperable Social Information System aimed at enhancing the prioritization, monitoring and delivery of social aid. With funding from the World Bank and the International Development Association, this new system is expected to help lift 1.24 million people out of poverty by 2029. By leveraging Togo’s advancements in technology and data services, the country aims to improve social service delivery, thereby boosting financial security, combating food insecurity and increasing household incomes.

Looking Ahead

Togo’s strategic approach to social protection through technology aims to provide targeted support to its most vulnerable populations. Furthermore, with the integration of digital platforms, biometric identification and enhanced data management, the country is working to expand its reach and improve the efficiency of aid distribution. The ongoing developments are expected to play a significant role in alleviating poverty. Furthermore, they will enhance financial stability for rural communities in the coming years.

– Chelsey Saya McLeod

Chelsey is based in Southampton, Hampshire, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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3D-Printed Housing: A New Hope for the Homeless in Colombia

Homeless in ColombiaColombia is pioneering a transformative approach to addressing its housing crisis by deploying advanced 3D printing technology. The Crane WASP, developed by the World’s Advanced Saving Project (WASP), is a large-format 3D printer capable of constructing homes from natural resources such as dirt and agricultural waste. This innovation marks a significant leap toward providing affordable and sustainable housing solutions for Colombia’s homeless and displaced populations. The technology’s versatility and low energy consumption make it particularly effective in regions where traditional construction methods are impractical or too costly.

Resilience and Sustainability in Housing

Colombia’s vulnerability to disasters and climate-related shocks underscores the critical need for resilient housing solutions. Approximately 23% of Colombian households live in substandard housing units highly susceptible to climate impacts. To tackle this issue, the Colombian government, with support from GFDRR and the World Bank, has undertaken significant reforms. A comprehensive assessment revealed that while 80% of families needed improvements to existing housing, 98% of the annual $600 million housing budget was allocated to new construction.

Scalable Solutions Through Technology

Colombia faces a severe housing shortage, with more than 3.7 million households experiencing a deficit. The Crane WASP offers a scalable solution, particularly in regions where conventional construction methods are impractical or too costly. By leveraging the technology’s versatility and low energy consumption, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) aims to improve living conditions for the homeless and displaced populations throughout Colombia.

The use of natural materials in 3D printing significantly reduces the environmental footprint of construction. Traditional building methods often rely on concrete, which is resource-intensive and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, the Crane WASP utilizes local soil and agricultural waste, promoting a circular economy. Research reveals that sustainable building practices can lead to reduced waste, lower energy consumption and enhanced resilience to climate impacts, such as floods and hurricanes, which are increasingly affecting vulnerable populations.

Moving Forward

While specific numbers on how many people have benefited so far are not yet available, the initiative aims to target the most underserved regions, particularly rural areas that are difficult to reach. The use of advanced 3D printing technology, like the Crane WASP, allows for the construction of sustainable homes using natural resources, making it a promising solution for the homeless in Colombia.

As Colombia continues to explore and expand these technological solutions, it sets a precedent for other nations grappling with similar issues. The success of the Crane WASP initiative could inspire global adoption of 3D printing technology in housing, demonstrating how innovation can potentially transform the lives of vulnerable populations and drive sustainable development on a larger scale.

– Aneela Agha

Aneela is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Alleviating Poverty With Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab

Microsoft’s AI for Good LabArtificial Intelligence (AI) holds significant potential in addressing global challenges, including poverty and hunger. By harnessing vast amounts of data, AI technologies can offer innovative solutions to complex problems faced by vulnerable populations. Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab is at the forefront of these efforts, providing critical tools and insights to mitigate the impacts of poverty and hunger around the world.

Using AI to Predict and Prevent Food Insecurity

Food insecurity remains one of the most significant challenges in poverty alleviation. In collaboration with Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Microsoft’s AI For Good Lab conducted a study that applied machine learning to address food insecurity. The study utilized data from household surveys collected by CRS teams on the ground in southern Malawi. By integrating this data with advanced machine learning algorithms, the research developed a model capable of predicting food insecurity at the household level.

The model achieved an 83% accuracy rate in forecasting food security outcomes, providing accurate predictions up to four months in advance, demonstrating the potential of combining ongoing survey data with machine learning to offer near real-time predictive insights. With such technologies continuing to develop further, early warnings and AI predictions could help allow governments and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to take preemptive actions, such as distributing food supplies or providing financial assistance to vulnerable populations.

Enhancing Agricultural Productivity Through AI

Agriculture is a critical sector for poverty alleviation, particularly in developing countries where a significant portion of the population depends on farming for their livelihood. Microsoft’s AI for Good initiative has made substantial contributions to enhancing agricultural productivity through the use of AI-driven technologies. One prominent initiative involves the use of AI to provide precision farming solutions. Microsoft has developed AI tools that analyze a wide range of data, including soil health, crop conditions and local weather forecasts, to offer tailored advice to farmers.

For example, the AI platform FarmBeats, developed by Microsoft, collects and analyzes data from sensors placed in fields, drones and satellites. This information is then used to give farmers specific recommendations on when to plant crops, how much water and fertilizer to use and when to harvest. Moreover, Microsoft’s AI tools are designed to be accessible even in low-resource settings. The platform works with low-bandwidth connections and integrates with affordable sensors, making it a viable solution for farmers in remote areas. This democratization of technology is a key factor in its effectiveness, ensuring that even the most marginalized farmers can benefit from AI advancements.

Mapping Vulnerable Populations With AI

Understanding the geographical distribution of vulnerable populations is crucial for effective poverty alleviation efforts. Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab, in collaboration with organizations like Planet and IHME, has developed advanced AI models to map these populations with precision. These AI models can detect patterns that indicate where populations are at the greatest risk of disasters, allowing NGOs and governments to effectively prioritize regions for infrastructure development, disaster preparedness and resource allocation.

Moreover, these AI-powered maps are not only valuable for disaster response but also for long-term planning. By identifying trends in population movement and environmental changes, policymakers can develop more sustainable poverty alleviation strategies that account for future risks and changes that may have disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations. This proactive approach is essential in ensuring that poverty reduction efforts are resilient to the impacts of rising temperatures and an ever-changing world.

The Future of AI in Poverty Alleviation

Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab is leading the charge in using AI to address some of the most significant challenges in poverty alleviation. From predicting food insecurity and enhancing agricultural productivity to mapping vulnerable populations, AI is playing a transformative role in creating a more equitable world.

– Sophia Lee

Sophia is based in Media, PA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

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