Archive for category: Technology

Information and stories about technology news.

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The Role of AI in Reducing Poverty

Role of AI in Reducing PovertyThe fight against global poverty is breaking new ground with the help of artificial intelligence. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an amoral tool that is equally capable of both harm and help. However, there are many noteworthy ways in which it contributes to global poverty reduction. The emerging tool has already helped improve access to health care and education. Additionally, it has assisted in disaster response mitigation, particularly in regions where access is otherwise limited. For example, let’s consider the role of AI in reducing poverty in Brazil, Kenya and Bangladesh.

Health Care in Brazil

AI-based diagnostic systems can provide timely and remote access to health care> It can reduce the burden of preventable disease and improve overall health outcomes. These systems can bridge the gap between people and essential resources in remote or marginalized places.

In Brazil, AI is currently being used to improve health care access. One example is ViBe Saúde, a Brazilian telemedicine startup that uses AI algorithms to facilitate consultations between medical professionals and patients. The initiative has proven especially beneficial in rural regions where access to health care services is limited.

Education in Kenya

AI-powered educational systems can adapt to offer personalized learning experiences, which is particularly helpful in regions with limited educational resources. In Kenya, Bridge International Academies, a company that provides for-profit education, is using AI-powered digital learning platforms to help disadvantaged populations break the cycle of poverty.

Remarkably, since 2015, Bridge students who have sat for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exam have consistently scored above the national average. Furthermore, its alumni are now in top universities in Kenya and the United States (U.S.).

Disaster Response in Bangladesh

Climate AI’s predictive analysis and relief coordination capacities can help mitigate the impact in disaster-prone regions and reduce their socioeconomic impact. Bangladesh, for instance, is highly susceptible to cyclones, floods and landslides, which can devastatingly impact vulnerable populations. AI-powered chatbots provide real-time information and enable timely evacuation and response efforts, further aiding in disaster management.

The Bangladesh government has used AI to enhance preparedness and response efforts. For example, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department uses AI algorithms for disaster risk management (DRM) to analyze weather data and issue early flood and cyclone warnings. “DRM is constantly upgraded through machine learning and artificial intelligence,” writes Abdullah Shibli, a reporter at The Daily Star.

Unemployment (And Re-Employment) in Bangladesh

While celebrating the accomplishments of the role of AI in reducing global poverty, it is also crucial to acknowledge its potential to exacerbate it. An epitomic example of this is AI’s capacity to automate the manufacturing sector. In Bangladesh, garment manufacturing is a significant source of employment and economic growth. As with many cases of hyper-industrialization, automation would cause underemployment in Bangladesh.

However, rather than exclusively displacing workers, AI also has the capacity to create more job opportunities. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2025, “approximately 85 million employees are anticipated to lose their jobs, while 97 million new roles may emerge.” This example illustrates the nuanced truth underlying robotics: AI’s capacity to promote harm or help is dependent on how we choose to use it. There is no reason to fear AI, as the future of its potential is a matter of our responsibility.

– Sheridan Smith

Sheridan is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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How Paper Technology is Supporting Postural Care in Kenya

How Paper Technology is Supporting Postural Care in KenyaIn Kenya, the joint partnership between APT for Social Development (APT4SD) and The Potters House has been instrumental in providing bespoke postural support devices for people with disabilities. APT4SD secured a grant of £14,232.00 from the Wales and Africa Grant Scheme in 2022-23 to carry out this work. In addition to its activities in Kenya, the charity also conducts workshops in Wales to teach Appropriate Paper Technology (APT) skills for mental health and emotional wellbeing. The training in Kenya focuses on enabling nurses to identify children needing postural care and training artisans to create customized furniture, which also helps fund the project by selling household items.

Understanding Appropriate Paper Technology (APT)

Appropriate Paper Technology (APT) offers an affordable solution by recycling materials like cardboard, paper and nylon tights into sturdy, lightweight support devices. At the Potters House CBO workshop, the construction process involves layering thick cardboard with a flour and water mixture and reinforcing it with used nylon tights. These support devices are then covered with old newspapers or paper bags and decorated. This method not only provides essential support to children in need but also facilitates financial support for their families through employment in device production.

Impact and Outreach of the Project

The project’s impact is significant, with 145 support devices created and 721 children and adults benefiting from the services. The project has established new APT workshops and trained 17 Kenyan therapists in postural care. These ongoing initiatives demonstrate the project’s commitment to providing immediate aid and promoting sustainable development through education and skill-building.

NHS Education for Scotland highlights the importance of postural care in preventing complications in various body parts such as hips, knees, spine and pelvis. Without appropriate care, individuals can suffer from severe physical deformities and health issues, impacting their ability to perform daily functions and reducing their quality of life.

Poverty Alleviation

The importance of postural care in Kenya extends beyond individual health to address broader socioeconomic challenges. According to UNICEF’s 2022 report, more than half of Kenyans face multidimensional poverty, with even higher rates among children with cerebral palsy. The efforts of APT4SD and The Potters House play a vital role in supporting impoverished families, illustrating the critical link between health care interventions and poverty alleviation.

Looking Ahead

The innovative approach of Appropriate Paper Technology (APT) promises to expand its impact, offering sustainable postural support and livelihood opportunities across Kenya. Continued collaboration between local and international partners could be crucial to enhance the scope and reach of these empowering projects. Moreover, by addressing the intertwined challenges of health and poverty, APT4SD and The Potters House are paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive future for individuals with disabilities.

– Rachael Denton-Snape

Rachael is based in High Wycombe, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Portable Ultrasound Machines Are Changing Health Care in Kenya

Portable Ultrasound MachinesPortable ultrasound machines in Kenya are improving health care in Kenya, which has long proven to be a challenge for remote areas of the country. Low-income communities are hit especially hard as expecting women must commute to the mainland or more urban areas to receive treatment. This is not always possible for those who cannot afford these travel costs. Thus, many women only return to specialists to deliver their babies, risking health complications since they do not receive ultrasounds or check-ups throughout their pregnancy.

In emergencies, it is also not realistic for women in rural communities to travel several hours to care centers that have the equipment necessary to have them. As a result of the inaccessible costs of Kenya’s maternal health care system, only about 50% of deliveries in Kenya occur in actual medical facilities, which can prove dangerous for mothers and babies.

Portable Ultrasound Technology

Created by the medical equipment company Philips, the Lumify Probe is a portable ultrasound machine that has revolutionized health care in Kenya for pregnant women. Implementation programs begin with training for midwives on how to use the Lumify Probe. Health care centers in remote villages of Kenya then received one of the devices, increasing the reach and accessibility of ultrasound and obstetrics in Kenya.

The device itself has many important applications. Most importantly, it can give midwives and mothers information on the viability of the pregnancy, show the number of fetuses and show the position of the fetus. With this information, midwives can better advise their patients and spot potential complications like breech positions or multiple pregnancies earlier.

Incorporating Artificial Intelligence

With the rise in artificial intelligence (AI) in recent years, efforts have been made to use the new technology for ultrasounds. AI could help simplify the process of obtaining obstetric measures and provide information to midwives and mothers earlier in the pregnancy. A pilot program in Kenya has already shown promise and there is hope of expanding the initiative to more countries in Africa.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has funded these efforts for several years now, even increasing a grant for Philips to $60 million for its research into AI-powered ultrasound technology.

The Impact of Portable Ultrasound Machines

Portable ultrasound machines will increase access to obstetric care in Kenya and eventually other countries as programs to implement the devices expand. Midwives can travel to their patients’ homes and conduct community visits to reach even more people. Moreover, the new machines are more cost-effective for low-income families who can’t afford to travel to centers in larger cities or the mainland.

Whereas ultrasounds at specialist facilities may cost around Ksh 1,000 or 1,500, portable ones are only around Ksh 500 (this is $10 to $15 versus just $5). While the World Health Organization (WHO) advises that mothers receive “at least one obstetric screen, done before 24 weeks of gestation,” many mothers could not do so before these pilot programs for portable ultrasound machines.

However, since their introduction, more than 2,500 mothers have been screened in Kenya and the number is only increasing. Ultimately, portable ultrasound machines like the Philips Lumify Probe will save countless lives as mothers become more informed about the conditions of their pregnancies and maternal health care in Kenya improves.

– Hannah Hipólito

Hannah is based in Tampa, FL, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Princeton’s Breakthrough Solar-Powered Water Purification Gel

Princeton's Breakthrough Solar-Powered Water Purification GelAccording to the World Bank, about two billion people around the world lack access to safely managed drinking water services. Among them, 771 million people cannot access even basic drinking water services. Researchers at Princeton University have developed a solar-powered gel that cleans water, potentially addressing the global clean water crisis. This gel marks an advancement in technology initially developed in 2021. Xiaohui Xu, a post-doctoral fellow at Princeton, led the development in his lab. Xu collaborated with Nehemie Guillimaitre, a graduate student in chemical and biological engineering, to author the initial study.

New Water Purification Technology

The solar-powered gel, known as a hydrogel, features a sponge-like structure that absorbs dirty water and filters out harmful contaminants such as bacteria, oils, salts and microplastics. This hydrogel comprises polymers—long chains of molecules that repel pollutants from its surface. Structurally, the hydrogel’s internal threadlike molecules mimic the interconnected fibers of a loofah fruit, a common kitchen scrubbing sponge. It efficiently absorbs, filters and releases water, cleaning a gallon in less than 10 minutes.

Testing and Efficacy of the Gel

While previous water purification devices required significant energy, this solar-powered gel stands out as low-cost, accessible and efficient, relying solely on sunshine for power. The warmer the temperature, the faster the gel releases water, due to the weakening grip of the gel’s molecules. At temperatures of 33 degrees Celsius or higher, the gel can release more than 70% of the absorbed water in under 10 minutes. This sponge-like technology’s fibrous structure enables its remarkable filtration and absorption speed.

Xu and her research team tested the gel’s effectiveness by placing it in water contaminated with E. coli, a bacteria that can cause life-threatening illnesses. Upon removal from the tainted water, the solar-powered gel successfully repelled all bacteria.

Ongoing Development and Broader Implications

Researchers believe the low-cost and easy-to-use solar absorber gel could be implemented globally to aid poverty-stricken areas where access to clean water is unreliable. Dirty water causes over 1.5 million deaths annually. The Princeton team is continuing to develop household prototypes and believes the gel could also be beneficial in emergency situations.

The gel’s capacity to shrink in warmth and expand in cool temperatures could enhance robotics by enabling machines to move and conform in various ways. Additionally, this gel could dehydrate liquids like milk or orange juice, simplifying shipping processes and it could extract water from blood for simpler storage.

Researchers aim to develop and modify the design of the solar-powered gel, finding new ways to enhance the technology. “Through our work, we have been able to show that fundamental research may have a significant impact on society,” Guillomaitre stated. “Ideally, this technology could one day be used by anyone concerned about their water quality, regardless of where they live.”

Looking Forward

The development of solar-powered gel technology at Princeton University holds transformative potential for global water purification efforts. As this innovation progresses toward wider adoption, it promises to significantly improve access to clean water in underserved communities worldwide. The continued refinement and application of this technology could herald a new era of sustainability and health.

– Jacob Buckner

Jacob is based in Raleigh, NC, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Renewable Energy in Sudan

Renewable Energy in SudanSudan is a developing nation in Northeast Africa with a population of around 47 million people. The World Bank report from 2023 shows 15.3% of the population living under the international poverty rate ($2.15), 49.7% living under the lower middle-income poverty rate ($3.65) and 86.2% living under the upper middle-income rate ($6.85). While these figures make for grim reading, there are many positives that things are and could continue to get better soon for people due to the further incorporation of renewable energy in Sudan. Renewable energy resources are already improving people’s lives by helping to bring clean water and solar-powered energy to towns and villages.

Providing Clean Water

Renewable energy is energy from natural resources which are “replenished at a higher rate than consumed” such as wind, solar and geothermal. These types of resources are also currently playing a major role in helping to improve people’s lives in Sudan and will play an even bigger role in the future. 

Through improved technology and investment, renewable energy in Sudan is improving people’s lives and lifting many out of poverty. UNICEF highlighted how in 2023, funding built a solar-powered mini water yard for a small, remote village Gelhanty in eastern Sudan giving communities a safe water source. The water source brought reliable and clean water to around 1,500 people, meaning that women and children in this area no longer had to trek long distances to collect water from unsafe streams.   

The new source allows villages water for domestic use such as drinking, cleaning and agricultural purposes. The water yard also prevents women and children from carrying the burden of long trips for unclean water that can cause water-borne diseases. 

Solar Panel System for a Hospital

Another success story of renewable energy in Sudan comes from a UNFPA program that piloted a renewable energy program in Abu Jebiha. Partnering with global aid, the program installed a solar panel system at Abu Jebiha Hospital. 

Before the installation of the solar panels, the hospitals’ electricity would often be cut out, meaning people could not get the treatment they needed, including women in the maternal ward, which decreased the chances of babies surviving. Now, however, this renewable-powered electricity is seeing great results. Hospital facilities now operate 24/7 including in the maternity ward, operation rooms, blood bank refrigerators, administration offices, incubators and medicine storage. 

Previously due to the lack of electricity, the hospital could not operate at capacity as the power would only last for two to three hours a day and patients often had to provide their power source. This successful solar power story means the project is expanding to cover more health facilities. 

The Future

These examples show the great work that aid agencies are doing in Sudan to bring essential resources such as water and health care to the communities in the country. However, despite all the successful work, there is a lot more to do and this is just the start of Sudan’s renewable energy program. 

Sudan is a country with plenty of renewable and natural energy resources. According to AFSIC, “Sudan has abundant resources for renewable energy, including solar, wind and hydro power. The country has one of the highest solar radiation rates in the world, with the potential to generate up to 15 GW of solar energy.” For reference, 1 GW of energy, equivalent to 1 billion watts, is enough to power up to 750,000 homes. 

Sudan has already made major progress towards its renewable energy program, with many large-scale projects to bring a better life for communities already under way. One example of this is government’s plans for the building of a 100 MW solar panel farm in the city of Dongola and a 50 MW wind farm in the Red Sea state, according to AFSIC. The Sudanese government also aims to achieve a total of 5 GW of renewable energy by 2030. 

Sudan’s blessing of renewable energy is good news for a country that is still struggling with poverty, however, for things to further improve more investment is needed to put new infrastructure in place so that success stories such as clean water yard and solar power supplying a hospital with reliable electricity becomes more commonplace and widespread throughout the country. 

– Lachlan Wellington

Lachlan is based in Fareham, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Poverty and Mobile Health Technologies in Djibouti

Poverty and Mobile Health Technologies in Djibouti The World Health Organization (WHO) introduced the concept of mobile health (mHealth) to enhance health care systems delivery globally. mHealth utilizes information and communication technology to provide health care services. In Djibouti, where vast arid landscapes and limited clinical facilities pose significant challenges, mHealth spearheads transformative health care solutions. The country, struggling with infectious diseases and inadequate health care infrastructure, increasingly relies on mobile apps, telemedicine platforms and SMS-based interventions. By harnessing the potential of mHealth, Djibouti is making significant strides in improving health care delivery and advancing toward universal health care coverage.

Enhancing Access to Health Care Services

Many barriers to health access persist in Djibouti, exacerbated by poverty and geographical disparities. The World Bank reports that about 58% of Djibouti’s population lives below the poverty line, struggling to afford basic medical care. Mobile health technologies, however, are providing a vital bridge. Telemedicine platforms such as BaboCare and TelmedDjib enable remote consultations with health providers, effectively connecting patients with medical professionals, especially in rural areas where health care facilities are scarce. These platforms have reported a success rate of more than 70% in consultations conducted via telemedicine.

Empowering through Health Education

Health education is crucial for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Traditional methods of disseminating health information face significant challenges in Djibouti, where illiteracy rates are about 50%, according to the 2022 UNICEF report. Mobile health technologies offer a scalable and accessible solution to these challenges. Apps like AfyaDjib and Sehaty provide targeted health messages and educational content on topics from maternal and child health to infectious disease prevention. These apps have garnered widespread attention and have reportedly increased health literacy among users by 80%.

Disease Prevention Strategies

Disease prevention emerges as a crucial solution to reduce the burden of illness, especially in resource-limited settings like Djibouti. This country, grappling with a high prevalence of communicable diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis, struggles partly due to inadequate health care infrastructure. An effective and cost-efficient prevention strategy in Djibouti includes SMS-based interventions. For instance, the United to Beat Malaria campaign disseminates information on preventive measures like using bed nets and indoor residual spraying. According to the organization, this program has protected more than 40 million people from malaria in 61 countries and raised more than $75 million to combat the disease.

Challenges and Future Directions

While mobile health technologies hold great promise, challenges persist in their broad use and sustainability. These services often remain inaccessible to marginalized populations, particularly due to poor internet connectivity in rural areas. Ensuring that mHealth interventions respect cultural norms and include linguistic diversity is equally important. Therefore, future collaborations among government entities, nonprofit organizations and private sector stakeholders are crucial. These partnerships could address these challenges and fully realize the potential of mHealth technologies to improve health care delivery in Djibouti.

Looking Ahead

Djibouti’s commitment to expanding mobile health technologies promises to further revolutionize its health care landscape. As partnerships between governmental bodies, NGOs and private sectors strengthen, these collaborative efforts are set to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of health services across the nation. With continuous innovation and strategic implementation, mHealth has the potential to significantly reduce health disparities and lead Djibouti toward achieving sustainable universal health care coverage.

– Honorine Lanka Perera

Honorine is based in Highland, NY, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Helping Schoolchildren in Uganda Using Simple Technology

Schoolchildren in UgandaIn 2014, South Korean Park Joong-Ryeol created a small company in Uganda. He aimed to alleviate the problems that schoolchildren in Uganda face while traveling for water. This company is Jerrybag. It makes lightweight but sturdy bags to make transporting water more accessible and safer. Since its inception, the company has donated more than 18,000 Jerrycan bags to 30 schools in Africa.

Water Problems in Uganda

In Uganda, water is a scarce resource. In rural areas, it is difficult for citizens to get any water. Some estimates state that one in four people lack access to clean water. Women and children usually travel long distances to collect water for themselves and their families to survive. On average, they trek six kilometers and spend two hours each day getting water.

This grueling task deprives children of education, as they must prioritize fetching water over schooling and poses serious health risks. Schoolchildren in Uganda burdened with transporting heavy 10-kilogram jerrycans of water unaided suffer from spinal pain, with a study revealing that 62% of them experience such discomfort.

Moreover, the lack of paved sidewalks on rural roads exacerbates the dangers faced by these children. Forced to walk alongside cars, they are constantly at risk, with statistics highlighting the alarming rate of fatalities due to road accidents. In Uganda, for instance, an average of 12 people per day lost their lives in car accidents in 2022, compared to five per day in Britain during the same period. The unsafe conditions of these roads further compound the challenges encountered by children in their daily lives.

Jerrycan Bags

The Jerrycan bag is a waterproof backpack that fits a Jerrycan. It eases the burden for kids while they are transporting water. The bag features a reflective “SLOW DOWN” sign to notify drivers to combat the dangerous roads. Jerrybag adopts a holistic approach by empowering local women in Kampala through employment opportunities. By hiring these women to produce the bags, the company not only improves the lives of children but also contributes to economic empowerment in the community.

In recognition of its impactful work, Jerrybag received the prestigious Seoul Design Award in 2023. The award is given to projects that create sustainable solutions to everyday problems, underscoring the significance of Jerrybag’s work. Funding its operations in Uganda through its South Korea website, Jerrybag sustains its mission by selling merchandise and allocating a portion of the proceeds to its studio in Uganda. As the company’s popularity grows, it can scale up production to provide more bags for children in need. Jerrybag currently produces more than 400 bags monthly, exemplifying its commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of children and communities in Uganda.

Jerrybag’s impact extends beyond providing water-carrying solutions in Uganda; the company has also played a significant role in supporting the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Demonstrating its commitment to community welfare, Jerrybag generously donated 4,870 hygiene kits and 14,160 masks, aiding the country’s efforts to combat the spread of the virus. Furthermore, Jerrybag engages in initiatives to empower disadvantaged children through design workshops, fostering creativity and skill development.

Final Remark

Jerrybag is a simple but creative solution to the struggle schoolchildren in Uganda face. The company’s success shows how basic changes like a new backpack can make a difference.

– Richard Sartor

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

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Comic Republic: A New Comic Book Landscape

Comic RepublicBatman, Wonder Woman and Spider-Man have inspired children and adults alike for decades, grossing billions of dollars in film, TV, video games and comic book sales. Often compared to modern-day myths, these heroes embody enduring values that have transcended centuries. Despite their textual and metatextual differences, these iconic characters all share one common denominator: their origins in the United States of America (USA).

The USA is considered the birthplace of modern comic books. Although many influential comics originate from other nations, Europe and America dominate the comic book and graphic novel landscape. However, some creators and publishers are striving to diversify this art form by incorporating African myths, sensibilities and art styles.

Comic Republic: Pioneering African Comics

Comic Republic, a Nigerian comic book publisher and multimedia company, has been creating characters that resonate globally for seven years. The company has produced dozens of characters featured in hundreds of stories and has collaborated with major corporations like BBC, Samsung and Wakanow to create characters and marketing materials. Committed to reshaping global perceptions of Africa through art and culture, Comic Republic offers all its books for free download on its website. Additionally, Comic Republic is collaborating with Emagine Content and JackieBoy Entertainment to produce a film based on their character Ireti. Announced in 2021, the project has not yet progressed, but future developments are still possible.

YouNeek: Building an African Comic Universe

YouNeek is a rising African comic studio dedicated to transforming African myths and culture into formats that appeal globally, such as comics and animation. Unlike other studios that create various worlds for their characters, YouNeek focuses on developing a shared universe of comic book superheroes, aiming for cross-medium expansion akin to Marvel Studios’ MCU. Roye Okupe, the owner and creative director of YouNeek, leads these efforts. Known for his ambition to build a multimedia empire, Roye has been making significant strides toward this goal. “Malika,” one of YouNeek’s projects, features a 15-minute animated pilot available on YouTube. In 2020, Roye secured a ten-book deal with Dark Horse Comics, a major player in the international independent comic book market and has been actively working on this commitment.

Looking Ahead

Comic Republic and YouNeek exemplify the indomitable spirit long associated with the comic book industry. Icons like Joe Shuster, Jerry Siegel, Bill Finger, Stan Lee, R. Crumb and Will Eisner have harnessed the power of comics to spark the imaginations of millions across all ages. Historically dominated by Western nations, the comic book industry is witnessing a transformative contribution from artists around the world, demonstrating that diverse nations and cultures have much to offer through the beloved artistic medium.

– Charlie McFadden

Charlie is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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5 Ways Cell Phones Transform Fishing in the Pacific Islands

5 Ways Cell Phones Transform Fishing in the Pacific Islands Fish are a valuable commodity in the Pacific Islands, making up to 90% of animal protein consumption and a significant portion of income generation in coastal villages. In terms of income generation, the advent of widespread cell phone coverage presents a promising opportunity for the region’s efforts toward poverty alleviation and economic advancement through fishing activities. However, only 38% of Pacific Islanders have access to a mobile phone subscription, contributing to poverty rates as high as 52.2% in Papua New Guinea. The following is an outline of five key ways that increasing mobile phone subscriptions could aid poverty alleviation through fishing in the Pacific Islands.

Access to Market Information

Facilitating access to market information is one of the most pivotal avenues through which phone coverage enhances fishing in the Pacific Islands. This assertion is strongly supported by Robert Jensen’s seminal research paper “The Digital Provide.” Jensen’s study, conducted in the densely populated fishing region of Kerala, India, revealed that with the adoption of cell phones, approximately one-third of fishermen expanded their market reach beyond their local catchment area.

This expansion coincided with a significant reduction in fish wastage, plummeting from 8% to 0%. The change was caused by newfound access to real-time market data afforded by mobile phones, enabling fishermen to stay abreast of supply and demand dynamics in nearby markets. Consequently, Jensen’s study underscored a tangible increase in fishermen’s profits, catalyzed by expanding cell phone coverage.

These findings suggest that similar benefits could accrue in the Pacific Islands, where increased cell phone access could enhance food production, expand economic opportunities in fishing and reduce food poverty. By leveraging existing infrastructure, such as the Western Pacific Fisheries Information Network Data Portal, fishermen can explore new markets, augmenting overall productivity and mitigating financial poverty and food insecurity.

Communication with Buyers

The expansion of cell phone access equips fishermen with a direct and streamlined communication channel to engage with individual buyers. Multiple studies underscore the significance of digital marketing in fish sales, highlighting its cost-effectiveness in reaching a broader array of potential consumers. Moreover, fostering personal connections with clients significantly enhances customer satisfaction and drives referrals. Through regular communication via cell phone with consumers, fishermen can broaden their network, facilitating waste reduction and boosting income. Consequently, this enhanced financial capacity enables investment in modern fishing equipment, thereby further optimizing operations and catalyzing economic growth and poverty reduction.

Weather Monitoring

Fishing, particularly in economically disadvantaged nations, poses significant risks due to unpredictable weather patterns and tidal fluctuations, with an estimated 100,000 fishermen losing their lives annually at sea. The expansion of cell phone coverage presents an opportunity to substantially diminish this staggering toll, primarily by granting access to real-time weather updates. This access notably reduces the likelihood of fishermen encountering perilous sailing conditions. For instance, the National Disaster Management Office of Vanuatu has pioneered an emergency SMS system to notify fishermen about impending natural disasters – a cost-effective, low-tech solution that profoundly enhances safety at sea. Moreover, temperature directly influences fish behavior and productivity.

Cell phone coverage grants fishermen access to both long-term climate forecasts and short-term weather trends, empowering them to adapt by acquiring suitable equipment for changing conditions or relocating to other catchment areas with higher yields. As a result, fishing in the Pacific Islands transforms into a safer, more profitable industry, fostering increased food production and incomes.

Access to Financial Services

Fishermen in rural or remote islands frequently encounter challenges accessing banking services, which are crucial for obtaining loans to initiate or expand fishing operations. The expansion of cell phone coverage facilitates access to online banking and microfinance institutions, offering avenues for business expansion with minimal collateral requirements. Notably, in China, microfinance initiatives within the aquaculture sector have demonstrated efficacy in poverty alleviation while also proving profitable for the firms involved. Additionally, in Haiti, mobile phone expansion resulted in a 30% increase in people gaining access to financial institutions. Extrapolating from this data, it is reasonable to anticipate similar benefits for Pacific island communities with expanded mobile phone coverage.

Government Oversight and Compliance

Illegal fishing in the Pacific accounted for the illicit harvesting of nearly 200,000 tons of tuna, valued at more than $300 million, between 2017 and 2019. Such alarming trends transcend species boundaries, jeopardizing the survival of marine populations, intensifying food insecurity and undermining the efforts of licensed purveyors. However, with the advent of mobile internet connectivity, surveillance and communication with governmental authorities are streamlined, empowering fishermen to report suspicious activities effectively.

The tangible benefits of cell phone coverage in combatting illegal fishing have already been observed in the Solomon Islands. By curbing overfishing and unsustainable practices, cell phones play a consequential role in safeguarding fishing productivity for future generations, thereby ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry. This proactive approach not only mitigates poverty and food insecurity concerns but also fosters a more resilient and prosperous fishing sector.

Ongoing Initiatives

Despite persistently low mobile subscriber penetration among Pacific Islanders, projections indicate a rapid increase, with an estimated 50% adoption by 2030. However, this rate still falls significantly below the global average of 73%. To improve penetration rates among fishermen in the region, concerted efforts from local policymakers and international investors could be crucial. Initiatives such as the Pacific Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership (DCCP) by USAID aim to enhance internet connectivity throughout Oceania. USAID-funded mobile applications, such as Hapi Fis and Hapi Pipol! (Happy Fish, Happy People!) in the Solomon Islands, provide fishermen and communities with real-time fishery management information and solutions.

Looking Ahead

The potential for mobile technology to transform the fishing industry in the Pacific Islands is vast and promising. By increasing access to market information, enhancing safety with weather updates and improving financial services, mobile phones could significantly uplift the economic status of fishermen and their communities. As coverage expands, these technologies are poised to make a profound impact on reducing poverty and increasing food security across the region.

– Matthew Candau

Matthew is based in St. Andrews, Scotland and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Social Media Entrepreneurs in Nigeria

How Social Media Empowers Entrepreneurs in NigeriaNigeria is witnessing a remarkable surge in entrepreneurial spirit, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) playing a significant role in the economy. As of December 2021, Nigeria hosted at least 39,654,385 micro, small and medium enterprises. These businesses generate 48% of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), comprise 96% of all businesses and provide 84% of employment. The SME sector and social media are crucial in alleviating poverty and creating jobs in Nigeria. The country’s fintech sector is attracting significant investment, highlighted by OPay securing a record $400 million in 2022, with most of the funding coming from Asia, particularly China. This trend emphasizes the critical role social media and entrepreneurs play in driving Nigeria’s economic growth.

Overcoming Marketing Barriers

The entrepreneurial boom in Nigeria faces challenges with limited market access. Traditional marketing channels such as newspapers and billboards can be costly for startups. Additionally, entrepreneurs often serve only their local customer base due to geographical constraints, which stifles growth and economic progress.

Social media is revolutionizing market access for Nigerian entrepreneurs and playing a crucial role in poverty reduction efforts. As of January 2023, Nigeria boasted 31.60 million social media users, representing 14.3% of its total population.

Empowering Businesses Through Social Media

Social media platforms empower Nigerian entrepreneurs by offering a space to connect with customers, market products and build brand awareness. Entrepreneurs like Mustapha Aishat, who founded @mairachamp.ng, use Instagram to attract customers and offer brand packages. This approach highlights the innovative ways entrepreneurs use social media to expand their business reach.

Recent statistics indicate that 28% of all business activity now occurs online, underscoring the growing importance of the internet in the current business landscape. Consumers increasingly prefer the convenience of online transactions, prompting businesses to expand their online presence to capitalize on this trend.

A January 2024 Forbes report reveals that 4.02 billion people worldwide or 53% of the global population use the internet. Additionally, social media users account for 3.2 billion or 42% of the world’s inhabitants. These figures highlight the presence and growth potential of social media, which empowers entrepreneurs in several ways:

  • Cost-effective Marketing. Social media platforms provide free or low-cost marketing avenues. Entrepreneurs can reach a wider audience compared to traditional advertising’s high costs. This allows them to build brand awareness and attract customers without breaking the bank.
  • Direct Customer Engagement. Unlike traditional advertising, social media supports two-way communication. Entrepreneurs can directly interact with their customers, understand their needs and preferences and build stronger brand loyalty. This valuable feedback allows them to refine their business strategies and offerings to better meet customer demands.
  • Targeted Outreach. Social media advertising empowers entrepreneurs to target specific demographics and reach a broader audience across Nigeria. This ensures their marketing efforts are more efficient and effective. Therefore, maximizing their return on investment.
  • Direct Sales Platform. Social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Instagram Shopping enable entrepreneurs to sell products directly to customers across the country and even internationally. This eliminates the need for intermediaries, reduces costs and opens doors to new markets.
  • Real-Time Customer Feedback. Social media interactions provide valuable insights in real time. Entrepreneurs can use this feedback to adapt their products and services, identify areas for improvement and make informed business decisions.

Government Policies Supporting Social Media Entrepreneurship

The Nigerian government recognizes social media’s potential as a catalyst for economic growth and has introduced policies to support entrepreneurs in the digital space. Key policies include:

  • National Broadband Plan 2020-2025. This plan aims to expand broadband access across Nigeria, making it easier and more affordable for entrepreneurs to leverage social media platforms for their businesses.
  • Digital Literacy Programs. The Nigerian government, in collaboration with NGOs and private institutions, promotes digital literacy programs to equip entrepreneurs with the digital skills like social media marketing, needed to leverage social media to drive business growth.
  • NITDA Code of Practice. The NITDA Code of Practice for social media operations guides the activities of platforms like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram within the country. This code aims to protect users while ensuring that platforms act responsibly and support lawful content. It thereby creates a safe environment for entrepreneurs to thrive.
  • National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Act. The proposed legislation to repeal and reenact the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Act reflects the government’s commitment to regulate and oversee digital platforms. The Act ensures that entrepreneurs contribute positively to the nation’s socio-economic development.

Social Media: A Catalyst for Poverty Reduction

Social media directly contributes to poverty reduction in Nigeria by empowering entrepreneurs in the following ways:

  • Creating Income Generation Opportunities. Social media platforms provide new avenues for marketing and sales. It opens doors to new income streams for entrepreneurs. This financial independence is crucial for lifting individuals and families out of poverty.
  • Facilitating SME Growth. The success of social media in empowering entrepreneurs leads to the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This growth translates to job creation, a critical factor in economic stability and poverty reduction.
  • Supporting Women Entrepreneurs. Social media levels the playing field for women entrepreneurs who may face additional barriers in traditional business settings. By providing a platform where talent and innovation take center stage, social media fosters gender equality and economic inclusion.
  • Expanding Market Reach. Social media removes geographical limitations and provides entrepreneurs the potential to reach a global audience and access larger markets. It also opens doors to larger markets,  increases sales potential and creates new growth opportunities.

Challenges

Although social media offers immense potential, several challenges need addressing. Some of them are as follows:

  • Digital Divide. Limited internet access and digital literacy skills can hinder some entrepreneurs from fully utilizing social media platforms.
  • Online Safety. Educating entrepreneurs about online scams and misinformation is vital for a safe and secure online business environment.
  • Adaptability. The changing nature of social media platforms demands continuous learning and adaptation from entrepreneurs.

Looking Ahead

The trajectory for Nigerian entrepreneurs is increasingly digital, promising greater economic inclusivity and sustainability. Moreover, as social media continues to redefine market dynamics, its role in fostering economic empowerment and reducing poverty could become more pivotal than ever.

– Prince Adewale Adewumi

Prince is based in Akure, Nigeria and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash