Information and stories about technology news.

, ,

Emerging Technology Solutions for Refugees

Technology for RefugeesMore than 120 million individuals worldwide currently face forced displacement due to persecution, conflict, violence or human rights violations. This record-high displacement leaves millions of refugees struggling to access basic necessities, education, health care and economic opportunities. However, technology solutions for refugees are reshaping lives by building resilience and creating pathways toward secure and dignified futures.

3D Printing

Additive manufacturing or 3D printing, is transforming health care access for underserved communities by providing highly customizable, cost-effective and lightweight prosthetics for refugee patients who have lost limbs while fleeing conflict. This technology enables refugees to regain mobility, independence and hope for a better future.

e-NABLE, a global network of 40,000 volunteers, has provided 10,000–15,000 free 3D-printed prosthetic hands and arms through open-source design for those lacking medical access. Similarly, the nonprofit 3DP4ME has revolutionized hearing care, delivering 52 3D-printed hearing aids to children in Jordanian refugee camps.

E-Learning Platforms

More than 50% of the world’s 14.8 million school-aged refugee children lack formal education, limiting their future opportunities and slowing global development progress. In response, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) has successfully piloted aprendIA.

This AI-powered platform delivers accessible and interactive learning through high-quality materials, including text, audio, video, gamified assessments and PDFs, via widely used messaging platforms like SMS and WhatsApp.

By leveraging artificial intelligence and natural language processing, aprendIA offers personalized feedback and learning support, ensuring continuous education for children with limited resources.

GeoMatch

GeoMatch is an AI-driven tool developed by Stanford’s Immigration Policy Lab and ETH Zurich to help governments place refugees in optimal locations for successful integration. It analyzes refugees’ background characteristics, resettlement locations and employment data to predict employment outcomes. It also provides data-driven insights to enhance overall refugee well-being.

Translation Apps

Refugees facing resettlement often struggle with the limitations of machine translations and the scarcity of interpreters for some languages. These obstacles hinder their ability to access vital services, comprehend their rights and successfully integrate into their new communities.

Tarjimly, a nonprofit organization, is tackling this issue by connecting refugees with on-demand interpreters, enabling smoother communication during interactions with social workers, immigration officials and medical professionals.

Through a new AI partnership, Tarjimly records these interactions to help train large language models. This groundbreaking feedback loop allows humans to teach machines the nuances and cultural contexts of different languages by sharing data and correcting automated translations.

Video Games

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) research on the digital leisure divide highlights the crucial role of digital access in refugee well-being, fostering rest, community building and access to essential information.

Video games, in particular, hold untapped potential as powerful tools for social and economic empowerment. Therefore, Project Hope, an online game-based initiative for Syrian refugee children in Türkiye, has positively influenced education, cognitive development, language acquisition and mental health.

Similarly, Refjam in North Macedonia has helped 500 displaced and stateless gaming enthusiasts to develop digital literacy and enhance employability through game-design workshops and festivals.

Blockchain

According to the World Bank, approximately 850 million people lack official identification, leaving many, especially children, refugees and stateless persons, without access to health care, education, banking and voting, heightening their risk of displacement and human trafficking.

Decentralized blockchain-based identity technology offers innovative solutions to address the global ID crisis. It provides marginalized populations with a secure, portable and immutable means of digital identification. This technology enables refugees to access vital resources and services, including the ability to seek asylum, with greater ease and efficiency.

Satellite Imagery

The integration of satellite imagery and AI is enabling planners to optimize resource allocation, enhance camp designs, track refugee movements and assess environmental impacts. For instance, AI tools were utilized to analyze migration patterns of Syrian refugees escaping conflict.

By combining satellite imagery with anonymized mobile phone data, the UNHCR could forecast the locations where new refugee camps would be needed. This proactive strategy greatly accelerated response times for humanitarian relief and enhanced living conditions for displaced families.

Makazi

More than 90% of displaced refugees are forced to remain in shelters that eventually become their long-term or semi-permanent residences. These shelters are typically inadequate, environmentally harmful and neglect the social, cultural and traditional values of the people they house.

To address this problem, Edinburgh Napier University’s SHELTERs project has developed a new prototype for temporary shelters called Makazi (Swahili for “home”). Winner of the U.K. 2019 RISE Awards, Makazi features a hexagonal design that enhances the UNHCR’s steel box-like shelters.

It is adaptable to varying temperatures and scalable to accommodate changing needs. It can also be assembled in seven days using locally available materials. Additionally, it includes water harvesting capabilities and an efficient sewage collection system.

Conclusion

Emerging technology solutions for refugees provide transformative approaches to enhance access to critical resources and improve living conditions. However, these innovations face significant challenges, including scalability, funding and infrastructure limitations, as many are still in the early development stages.

While technology solutions can play a pivotal role in supporting refugees, it cannot resolve displacement’s fundamental political, social and economic drivers. Nevertheless, ongoing advancements and integration of these technologies hold substantial promise for improving refugee outcomes and fostering more sustainable and effective humanitarian responses.

– Charlotte Codd

Charlotte is based in Waterford, Ireland and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

JazzCash: How Fintech Innovations in Pakistan Reduce Poverty

JazzCashPakistan faces significant economic challenges, with a substantial portion of its population living in poverty. As of 2024, the poverty rate stood at 25.3%, marking a sharp increase from the previous year and adding approximately 13 million people to the impoverished population. Financial exclusion exacerbates this issue, particularly among women. In 2021, only 13% of women had access to formal bank accounts compared to 34% of men, highlighting a significant gender gap in financial inclusion. ​

JazzCash’s Role in Financial Inclusion

With 44.4 million customers, JazzCash stands as one of Pakistan’s largest digital financial services platforms. Launched in 2012 by the Pakistani mobile operator Jazz, JazzCash has played a pivotal role in digitalizing Pakistan’s economy, promoting financial inclusion, expanding economic participation and reducing poverty.

Through partnerships with institutions such as the United Nations (U.N.) Women and the Sindh Flood Emergency Rehabilitation Project, JazzCash has introduced microloans, mobile banking and digital finance solutions that support economic activity and empower underserved communities. By leveraging fintech innovations, JazzCash provides secure, efficient and accessible financial services to millions of Pakistanis who previously lacked access to banking.

Here are four key JazzCash initiatives that demonstrate how fintech innovations in Pakistan reduce poverty through economic growth and financial inclusion:

Empowering Women Through Digital Finance

A 2022 partnership with U.N. Women enabled JazzCash to support 10,000 women micro-entrepreneurs by providing mobile wallets, free SIMs, data, calls and SMS bundles by 2025. In addition to digital tools, the initiative offers financial literacy training, ensuring that women gain the knowledge and confidence to effectively use fintech services for business growth and financial independence. With women making up only 21% of Pakistan’s workforce, increasing their participation in the economy is essential for both gender equality and overall economic growth.

The initiative aligns with U.N. Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and fosters broader poverty reduction by expanding economic opportunities for women. In November 2024, JazzCash announced plans to expand its reach, setting a target to increase the number of women-led businesses using JazzCash from 100,000 to 300,000 by 2027. By integrating women into the digital economy, JazzCash helps close the financial gender gap and provides greater economic independence for female entrepreneurs.

Supporting Disaster Relief Through Fintech

The Sindh Flood Emergency Rehabilitation Project (SFERP), a collaboration between JazzCash and the Government of Sindh, has helped deliver financial assistance to families affected by the 2022 and 2024 floods. As of May 2024, JazzCash has disbursed PKR 2 billion to flood-affected families, with a goal of reaching PKR 15 billion and assisting 1 million households. Additionally, 80,000 new mobile wallet accounts have been created, ensuring that 45% of account holders are women. Traditional relief programs often rely on cash-based assistance, which can lead to delays, inefficiencies and security risks. By offering direct digital transfers, JazzCash provides a more inclusive, transparent and secure alternative, enabling families to rebuild independently and participate in the economy after disasters.

Expanding Social Protection Through Digital Payments

In February 2024, JazzCash became a key partner in the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), Pakistan’s largest poverty reduction initiative. BISP provides unconditional cash transfers to underserved communities, including 9 million women, serving as a critical social safety net for Pakistan’s most vulnerable populations. JazzCash’s digital disbursement system ensures secure and efficient delivery of PKR 78 billion in cash payments to 1.3 million women by the end of 2025. By November 2024, JazzCash had already successfully transferred PKR 15 billion, demonstrating the effectiveness of fintech in expanding financial accessibility. Beyond facilitating direct aid, this initiative promotes long-term financial inclusion, encouraging women to open digital bank accounts, save money and engage in economic activities that lead to greater financial independence.

Microfinance and Entrepreneurship

JazzCash continues to promote economic inclusion through microfinance, enabling entrepreneurs and small businesses to access capital, process digital payments and expand their operations. Small business owners, particularly in rural and underserved communities, often face significant barriers to accessing credit and banking services. The organization’s microfinance solutions provide secure and efficient financial services, allowing entrepreneurs to scale their businesses, create jobs and contribute to economic growth.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Fintech in Pakistan

As fintech adoption expands, JazzCash remains committed to bridging financial gaps and empowering underserved communities. CEO Aamir Ibrahim has set a target to increase the female customer base from 30% to 50%, ensuring that women gain equal access to financial tools. With the continued integration of financial services into daily transactions, JazzCash is shaping a more inclusive economy where digital finance drives economic participation and poverty reduction in Pakistan.

Expanding financial literacy programs—such as those introduced through the U.N. Women partnership—could be essential in helping more Pakistanis navigate digital finance effectively. By leveraging fintech for economic empowerment, JazzCash is paving the way for sustainable economic growth and greater financial inclusion across Pakistan.

– Oliver Tanner

Oliver is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Tech Herfrica Bridging Digital Divide Empowering Women in Africa

Tech Herfrica Bridging Digital Divide Empowering Women in AfricaEmpowering women in Africa through digital and financial inclusion is at the heart of Tech Herfrica’s mission. Founded in 2023 by Nigerian public policy advisor Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, this social impact organization provides digital literacy training, internet-enabled devices and access to e-commerce platforms. Programs such as EquipHer4Growth and HerLocal Market have helped more than 4,000 women increase their incomes and livelihoods.

EquipHer4Growth

Tech Herfrica’s core programs, EquipHer4Growth and HerLocal Market, equip rural women with digital skills, financial literacy and access to new markets. The EquipHer4Growth program offers hands-on training in digital literacy and business management. Participants learn to operate computers and smartphones, navigate the internet, manage digital payments and leverage online marketing tools to expand their businesses.

The program provides financial literacy training to help women make informed financial decisions. Each participant receives an internet-enabled device, ensuring they have the necessary tools to compete in the current digital economy.

Graduates of EquipHer4Growth have successfully launched online businesses, expanded existing enterprises and improved their families’ quality of life. Tech Herfrica fosters economic independence and contributes to local development by empowering women in Africa with essential digital skills.

HerLocal Market

Complementing EquipHer4Growth, HerLocal Market connects rural female farmers and traders to local and international buyers. This e-commerce platform addresses one of the biggest challenges for women in rural areas, limited access to markets, by providing a digital space where they can showcase and sell their products.

Through HerLocal Market, women sell agricultural produce, handmade crafts and locally sourced goods. The platform reduces post-harvest waste, maximizes profits and provides logistics support and marketing tools. By reaching wider audiences, these women create sustainable income streams, directly contributing to local and regional economic growth.

Together, EquipHer4Growth and HerLocal Market represent a comprehensive approach to empowering women in Africa by equipping them with digital skills and connecting them to broader markets.

SDG Goals and Progress

Tech Herfrica’s work aligns closely with Sustainable Development Goal One (End Poverty Everywhere), SDG Four (Quality Education), SDG Five (Gender Equality) and SDG Eight (Decent Work and Economic Growth). According to Tech Herfrica’s SDG Action Dashboard, the organization has already made measurable progress toward these goals by creating new economic opportunities and providing critical digital training for women and girls in rural communities. Access to technology, combined with digital literacy and market linkages through HerLocal Market, creates new income-generating opportunities for rural women, directly addressing the root causes of poverty by empowering women in Africa by eliminating barriers to economic independence. 

A Global Recognition and Future Expansion

Among many other awards, in 2023 Tech Herfrica was selected for the Chat for Women’s Livelihood Accelerator program, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. This 18-month initiative focuses on using chat-based technology, AI and large language models to enhance learning and boost women’s livelihoods in rural communities. By leveraging AI-driven solutions, Tech Herfrica aims to improve digital engagement and provide personalized support for women as they build skills and grow their businesses.

Through this accelerator program, Tech Herfrica collaborates with five other global organizations to develop innovative chat services on platforms such as WhatsApp, enabling more women to access essential resources, skills and mentorship opportunities. This partnership marks a significant step toward scaling Tech Herfrica’s impact and expanding its reach to thousands more women in underserved communities.

Looking Ahead

With a goal to empower 1 million women in Africa by 2030, Tech Herfrica continues to expand its programs, form new partnerships and develop innovative digital solutions. By using technology to break barriers, the organization remains at the forefront of empowering women in Africa through education, entrepreneurship and economic inclusion.

– Gregory Brychta

Gregory is based in Seattle, WA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

AI in Nigeria: Innovations Transforming Health and Education

AI Innovations Transforming Health and Education in NigeriaIn Nigeria, doctors remain spread thin, with one physician serving approximately 2,500 people, this shortage leaves millions without timely access to health care. Education faces similar challenges, with UNICEF reporting that more than 10 million children are out of school despite the government’s policy of free primary education. In conflict-affected northeastern states, more than 800 schools remain closed, with nearly 2,000 classrooms damaged or destroyed. Amid these challenges, artificial intelligence (AI) offers a glimmer of hope, with platforms like Ada Health and EDVES leading transformative change across Nigeria’s health care and education sectors.

Ada Health: AI-Driven Medical Guidance

AI is making significant strides in Nigeria’s health care system, with Ada Health at the forefront. This app provides free, user-friendly symptom assessments, bridging the gap between patients and health care providers. In a country where communicable diseases cause nearly 64% of deaths, early detection and accurate guidance are vital.

Ada Health’s platform begins by asking users a series of simple, jargon-free questions about their symptoms. It then analyzes the responses using advanced algorithms, providing preliminary assessments and recommendations for care. The app also stores medical history, tracks allergies and generates reports for doctors, streamlining the diagnostic process once patients seek treatment.

This innovation reduces the workload on Nigeria’s already overstretched health care professionals. With nearly 40% of Nigerian doctors emigrating to practice abroad, AI-driven solutions like Ada Health help fill the gap by providing preliminary health care guidance. As Nigeria’s population is projected to reach 400 million by 2050, such technological advancements will become increasingly essential.

EDVES: Revolutionizing Education Access

While health care sees progress through Ada Health, Nigeria’s education sector is transforming through EDVES, one of Africa’s largest AI-powered education platforms. With more than 10 million Nigerian children out of school, EDVES offers a lifeline by making learning accessible, even in rural communities with limited internet connectivity.

EDVES operates as a comprehensive school management system, equipping teachers, students and administrators with AI-powered tools in Nigeria. Students access video lessons, homework folders, downloadable notes and attendance tracking through mobile and desktop apps. Teachers can monitor academic progress, compare subject performance across terms and streamline communication with parents.

AI’s Role in Poverty Reduction

Beyond improving health care and education, AI-driven platforms like Ada Health and EDVES are tackling the root causes of poverty. Early health intervention prevents families from falling deeper into economic hardship due to prolonged illness, while accessible education creates pathways for future employment. However, challenges remain. Limited smartphone access, inconsistent internet connectivity and concerns about data privacy could hinder AI adoption in rural areas. Collaboration between the Nigerian government, private sector and civil society could be crucial in scaling these initiatives and ensuring equitable access.

Looking Ahead

AI is reshaping health and education landscapes in Nigeria, offering scalable solutions to longstanding challenges. Ada Health provides critical medical guidance, while EDVES brings quality education to remote communities. Together, they illustrate AI’s potential to break cycles of poverty, empowering Nigerians with the knowledge and care they need to build brighter futures. Furthermore, as AI continues to evolve, partnerships between innovators, governments and communities will determine how far its benefits can reach. With thoughtful implementation and sustained investment, AI could transform not only Nigeria but also other developing nations striving to overcome health care and education disparities.

– Jacob Christopher

Jacob is based in Granite Falls, NC, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

How Starlink Is Revolutionizing Access to Health Care in Kenya

Health Care in KenyaIn Kenya, internet connectivity is a privilege enjoyed by people who live in urban areas. In contrast, millions in rural areas remain in the digital dark. Starlink, a satellite internet provider known for delivering fast and reliable internet in remote and rural areas, launched in Kenya in July 2023. Marketed as a solution for regions with poor or no internet connectivity, Starlink in Kenya experienced a huge demand, leading to a network capacity overload.

Approximately 70% of Kenya’s population resides in rural areas, which are underserved and often face challenges accessing essential services due to poor infrastructure. Starlink is bridging the digital divide in Kenya by revolutionizing access to health care in rural areas. From telemedicine to real-time data management, here’s how this innovative technology is revolutionizing access to health care.

The Link Between Health Care and Poverty

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), health is a fundamental human right. Yet, our financial capacity often limits access to health care, including the choice to get medical care or where to get it. In low-income countries, these options compel individuals to pay for medical care out of pocket, forcing families to forego their well-being. Consequently, the burden of medical expenses and loss of income pushes families deeper into poverty.

Investing in effective health systems and universal health care can ensure that all persons, particularly the most vulnerable, can access health care without experiencing financial constraints.

Health Care in Kenya

Kenya has made notable progress in upholding this right by implementing a system designed to address systemic issues. The country has improved access to health care, increased the number of medical personnel and supplies, digitized health services and promoted national insurance uptake. However, challenges like delays, inefficiency and unreliability persist in the new health care model.

Starlink’s Revolutionary Role in Murang’a

Amid these challenges, in the central region of Murang’a county, Starlink is revolutionizing health care delivery. Nestled in scenic hills, it is a significant tourism attraction but a logistical nightmare due to the challenge of building infrastructure to deliver essential services like communication and health. Murang’a County has no level 5 health facility and 297 level 2 facilities, including clinics and dispensaries that serve villages and smaller towns. In contrast, internet access is limited to 12.7% of the population and 57.4% own mobile phones.

Challenges Solved

The health care sector struggled with delays in disease detection, financial mismanagement, long queues and drug shortages due to reliance on manual systems. However, Starlink’s presence in Kenya has significantly enhanced the digitization of medical records. Murang’a County Governor has hailed the integration of Starlink internet in rural health facilities as lifesaving. Starlink has allowed Murang’a County to roll out a telemedicine program decongesting level 4 and 5 hospitals. This has reduced patient travel expenses, ensuring everyone can get medical assistance from the nearest dispensary.

Starlink provided a viable solution with high-speed, low-latency internet in underserved areas, where most health centers and dispensaries are located—unlike other internet service providers in Kenya that depend on fiber optic cables. The digitizing of medical records and automation of appointments has improved service efficiency. Doctors can make accurate time decisions on patient care through telemedicine. At the same time, the county can monitor and generate real-time patient data. This has enhanced accountability and reduced theft of medical supplies.

Final Note

By providing affordable, high-speed and reliable internet, Starlink is making remarkable strides in digitizing and modernizing health care in Kenya. This aligns with the four core components of the right to health: availability, acceptability, accessibility and quality. As health care outcomes in Murang’a County continue to improve, the success of Starlink offers a model that could be replicated beyond Murang’a County. Indeed, it could potentially transform health care access across the country.

– Grace Ruria

Grace is based in Nairobi, Kenya and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Electric Vehicles in India: Driving Affordability and Sustainability

Electric Vehicles in India: Driving Affordability and SustainabilityElectric vehicles are transforming transportation in India, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fuel-powered vehicles. With India ranking as the third-largest emitter of carbon dioxide globally, the shift toward cleaner transportation is crucial. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the rollout of electric vehicles is set to avoid the need for nearly 6 million barrels of oil per day by 2030. The electric vehicle industry in India experienced an 80% increase in sales between 2010 and 2023, reflecting the growing adoption. Most freight transportation relies on diesel-powered trucks, making electrification a key strategy to reduce carbon emissions while lowering fuel expenses for millions.

Government and Public Adoption of Electric Vehicles

The use of electric vehicles in India continues to rise, with reports showing that more than 2 million electric vehicles were in use by 2023. A primary reason for this increase is the rising cost of petrol. In April 2020, petrol prices in Indian cities averaged 70 rupees per liter, reaching nearly 110 rupees per liter at their peak in 2022. As fuel prices continue to fluctuate, many citizens are turning to electric vehicles to save money on transportation costs. In an interview with AP News, an electric rickshaw driver highlighted the financial benefits of the switch. He reported that charging his electric rickshaw costs 60 rupees, compared to 300 rupees for petrol to cover the same 80-kilometer distance. Given these cost savings, many others are making the transition to electric vehicles.

Supportive Policies for Electric Vehicle Adoption

The Indian government has introduced financial incentives and policies to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles. In September 2024, officials approved a 109 billion rupee ($1.3 billion) incentive package to promote the use of two- and three-wheeled electric vehicles, as well as electric trucks and ambulances. Reducing pollution from diesel-powered trucks remains a primary focus of this policy, as they are among the largest contributors to poor air quality in India. To address this, the government has introduced additional incentives for scrapping old diesel trucks in favor of electric alternatives. By 2030, India aims to have 70% of its commercial vehicles running on electricity, significantly reducing emissions while making transportation more affordable for businesses and individuals.

Charitable Initiatives and Market Growth Projections

The shift to electric vehicles has created opportunities for low-income communities. The Shishu Mandir charity has been donating electric vehicles to individuals in need, allowing them to establish sustainable livelihoods through ride-hailing services. A transgender woman who had previously relied on street begging for survival after being disowned by her family received an electric vehicle donation from Shishu Mandir. The initiative provided her with a safer and more stable income while also contributing to environmental sustainability.

While Shishu Mandir has donated 17 electric vehicles so far, efforts are ongoing to expand the program, providing licenses and driving lessons to those in poverty. These initiatives demonstrate how electric vehicle adoption serves as both a climate solution and a tool for economic empowerment.

Organizations such as the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) are also playing a pivotal role in expanding India’s electric vehicle market. Through investments, policy support and government lobbying, IBEF estimates that India could become the largest electric vehicle market in the world by 2030. The organization advocates for subsidies, improved charging infrastructure and lower production costs to make electric vehicles more accessible.

Looking Ahead

India’s transportation sector is undergoing a major transformation as the adoption of electric vehicles continues to accelerate. Beyond lowering emissions and reducing fuel costs, this shift is creating new economic opportunities for marginalized groups and demonstrating the broader social benefits of sustainable mobility. With government policies, private investments and charitable initiatives driving change, millions more people could gain access to affordable, clean transportation. The rise of electric vehicles in India not only signals progress toward a greener future but also highlights the power of technology and policy in improving livelihoods.

– Lizzie Mazzola

Lizzie is based in Raleigh, NC, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Moving Forward: The Electric Vehicle Industry in the DRC

Electric Vehicle Industry in the DRCThe Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a country in Central Africa known for its rich deposits of copper, cobalt, zinc, lithium, oil and gold— all of which are essential to making the global clean energy transition. As companies globally look toward investing in a green future, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, mining sites in the DRC have become focal points of the supply chain necessary for constructing the batteries used in these cars.

Rising Demand for Rare Earth Metals

Investment in the DRC and other Central African nations reflects a growing interest in clean energy technologies. It also highlights the potential for increased engagement with the Congolese government to promote global trade of these valuable resources. As the EV and battery storage industries grow, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has predicted that total demand for lithium will rise by close to 90% by 2040. Similarly, nickel and cobalt will increase to between 60-70%.

The push is led by China, whose companies have been systematically buying and constructing refineries for these metals. Effectively this has made China indispensable to the EV supply chain. Approximately 80% of the DRC’s cobalt output is owned by Chinese companies. Many of these companies have recently come under fire for inhumane labor practices regarding the mines. For nations looking to get involved, the challenge now is to formalize the mining and refining processes while aligning labor practices with global standards. Additionally, the task is to distribute the profits from this trade to the Congolese government and its people.

Electric Vehicle Industry in the DRC

The DRC has long struggled with civil conflict. Fighting between the Congolese government and the militia group M23 has displaced millions of citizens. The DRC is considered one of the five most vulnerable countries in the world. The World Bank estimates that 73.5% of Congolese people live on less than $2.15 a day. Despite these challenges, the mining sector plays a vital role in the Congolese economy. In 2023, it grew by 18.2%, contributing to more than 70% of the overall gross domestic product (GDP) growth.

Most laborers, however, do not benefit from this growth. Often compared to modern-day slavery, Congolese freelance miners— referred to as “artisanal”— work in dangerous conditions for little more than a few dollars a day. These artisanal miners manually dig on the peripheries of excavation sites to sell to independent distributors. About 10-20% of Congolese cobalt is produced by artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). These ASM sites, in particular, are associated with child labor, hazardous conditions and human rights violations.

There has been a surge in pressure on the Congolese government and cobalt-producing companies in the DRC to avoid ASM-produced cobalt entirely. However, others have pointed out that this runs the risk of cutting off the livelihoods of many Congolese workers. Rather, a formalization of the ASM industry is necessary to monitor high-risk situations and prevent human rights violations.

Formalization of the ASM Industry

The Mutoshi mine, located in the Katanga Province, has served as a pilot project to integrate ASM into industrially mined cobalt. Formalization processes include encouraging female participation, eliminating child labor and improving safety conditions. Similarly, directives such as the European Union (EU) Batteries Directive, the African Green Minerals Strategy and the DRC’s Interministerial Commission in Charge of Monitoring Child Labor in Artisanal Mining aim to improve ASM conditions.

Furthermore, negotiations like the U.S.-DRC-Zambia trilateral memorandum of understanding (MoU) aim to strengthen cooperation. Furthermore, they look to develop a cross-border integrated value chain for EV battery production. The MoU also seeks to raise awareness of investment and co-financing opportunities for the EV industry in the DRC.

Looking Ahead

With rising investments and exports in the mining sector, driven by improving mineral prices and growing public investment from the EV and battery industries, the DRC is poised to see continued favorable GDP growth over the next decade. In 2023, GDP growth was recorded at 7.8%. With the continued formalization of ASM and steadfast negotiation, the DRC can improve its global standing greatly as demand for EVs and battery storage techniques continues to grow.

– Sadie Claps

Sadie is based in Seattle, WA, USA and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

, ,

Expanding Renewable Energy in the Soloman Islands

Renewable Energy in the Soloman IslandsThe Solomon Islands, an archipelago nation in the South Pacific with more than 700,000 people, faces unique energy challenges due to its geographical spread and reliance on imported fossil fuels. To tackle these ongoing issues, renewable energy in the Soloman Islands is expanding, by signing and aligning with international climate goals such as the Paris Agreement.

Current Renewable Energy Landscape

The Solomon Islands relies heavily on diesel generators, with approximately 80% of its electricity coming from fossil fuels. Hydropower has played a role in the country’s renewable energy sector, with the Lungga Hydropower Station near the capital, Honiara, serving as the primary source of renewable electricity. However, the country seeks to diversify its energy mix to reduce costs, increase sustainability and enhance energy security.

Future Renewable Energy Potential

The Solomon Islands government aims to increase the share of renewable energy in its national energy mix to a target of 100% by 2030. Solar power presents one of the most promising opportunities, given the country’s tropical climate and consistent year-round sunlight. Additionally, the newly launched Tina River Hydropower Project is expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 49,500 tons annually, significantly reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels. The government is also promoting community-based biomass projects to meet energy needs while encouraging sustainable land use practices.

The Role of Coconut Oil in Energy Production

In a unique renewable energy initiative, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) partnered with Solomon Power to explore coconut oil as an alternative to diesel fuel. The trial involved running a generator on locally produced coconut oil, with a contract supplying 1,000 liters per week. This not only provided a steady income for coconut farmers but also demonstrated the potential for coconut oil to become a viable renewable energy source. Expanding this initiative could enhance energy security while creating new economic opportunities in the agricultural sector.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite progress, the Solomon Islands faces challenges in expanding its renewable energy sector. The geographical dispersion of islands makes energy infrastructure development costly and logistically complex. Additionally, securing financing for large-scale projects remains a hurdle for the nation and the country currently has some of the highest electricity costs in the world. Additionally, if coconut oil emerges as a major fuel source, it will require substantial investments in coconut farming, including replanting initiatives and enhanced quality control measures. The Solomon Islands needs to focus on a transition to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels to advance its energy goals and contribute to global sustainability efforts.

Renewable energy in the Soloman Islands stands at a pivotal moment in its transition. Expanding renewable energy sources could reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower energy costs and contribute to global sustainability goals. With ongoing investments in hydropower, solar energy and innovative biofuel solutions, the country is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy development in the Pacific region.

– Avery Hazard

Avery is based in Segovia, Spain and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Renewable Energy in Latvia

Renewable Energy in Latvia Latvia, a small Northern European country with a population of about 2 million, is leveraging its natural resources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and meet the European Union’s (EU) ambitious green energy goals. With abundant forests, access to the Baltic Sea and significant hydropower potential, Latvia has positioned itself as a regional leader in renewable energy innovation.

Current Renewable Energy Landscape

Latvia’s renewable energy sector ranks among the most developed in Europe, with hydropower accounting for more than 50% of its electricity production. This dominance stems from the country’s extensive network of rivers and dams, which play a crucial role in powering the national energy grid. Biomass energy is another critical component of Latvia’s renewable strategy, supported by its vast forest resources covering more than 42% of the country. Investments in biomass energy have significantly improved efficiency and environmental preservation. Over the past five years, electricity generated in biomass cogeneration plants and power stations has surged by 144.2%, highlighting the sector’s rapid growth.

Future Potential in Renewables

Latvia’s renewable energy ambitions align closely with the EU Green Deal, which seeks carbon neutrality by 2050. Through its National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP), Latvia aims to increase the share of renewable energy to 50% by 2030. This plan prioritizes modernizing the national grid, enhancing energy storage and scaling up wind and solar energy capacity. Offshore wind energy holds immense potential for Latvia, due to favorable wind conditions in the Baltic Sea. Collaborative efforts with Estonia and Lithuania are exploring large-scale offshore wind farm projects to address regional energy needs and reduce dependency on traditional energy sources. Solar energy, while still underutilized, is gaining momentum as small-scale projects emerge nationwide.

Challenges in Renewable Energy Development

Despite Latvia’s progress, challenges remain. Heavy reliance on hydropower makes the energy system vulnerable to fluctuations in river flow, which are increasingly influenced by climate change. While high water flows in 2023 enabled hydropower plants to produce their second-largest electricity output in 25 years, periods of drought or low water flow could significantly disrupt energy generation. Financial constraints also pose a barrier to expanding renewable energy infrastructure. High project costs necessitate greater foreign investment and partnerships.

Empowering Communities Through Renewables

In 2020, the Mārupe Municipality launched Latvia’s first community energy project under the ShareRES initiative. This small-scale renewable energy solution empowers residents to generate and manage their electricity through solar panel installations. Residents have reported lower energy costs and reinvested these savings into other community initiatives. The success of this project highlights the potential of grassroots renewable energy solutions and serves as a blueprint for similar initiatives nationwide.

A Vision for the Future

Latvia’s renewable energy journey reflects a blend of ambition, innovation and community-driven initiatives. By embracing wind, solar and other clean energy sources, Latvia aims to complement its existing hydropower and biomass strengths while mitigating risks tied to climate change. Furthermore, grassroots projects, like the Mārupe Municipality initiative, underscore the importance of local engagement in achieving national and EU energy goals. Through strategic investments, international collaboration and a focus on sustainable development, Latvia can potentially become a model for renewable energy in Northern Europe. Its commitment to a greener future not only benefits its citizens but also contributes to the broader fight against climate change.

– Avery Hazard

Avery is based in Segovia, Spain and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Empowering Malawian Farmers: AI-Driven Agricultural Solutions

Empowering Malawian FarmersIn rural Malawi, where smallholder farming supports the livelihoods of more than 80% of the population, a new technological tool is empowering Malawian farmers to overcome challenges that once seemed insurmountable. The app Ulangizi, which means “Advice” in the local Chichewa language, is transforming how farmers access critical agricultural knowledge. By harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) and leveraging the widespread use of WhatsApp, Ulangizi is providing essential support to some of the world’s most vulnerable farmers.

The Need for Innovation in Malawian Agriculture

Unpredictable weather patterns, limited resources and a lack of timely access to agricultural expertise deeply impact agriculture in Malawi. The country’s farmers often face issues such as crop diseases, pest infestations and the devastation of climate disasters like Cyclone Freddy, which displaced more than 100,000 people in 2023. The loss of crops, including the crucial soy harvest, left farmers struggling to recover.

In this context, Opportunity International, a Chicago-based nonprofit, saw an opportunity to use AI to offer farmers practical solutions. Ulangizi, the app it developed, connects farmers directly to expert advice, offering them the guidance they need to manage everyday challenges and the unpredictable effects of climate instability.

AI at the Service of Farmers

Ulangizi functions through WhatsApp, a platform already popular in many parts of the world, including Malawi. This accessibility allows farmers to interact with the app through simple messages and receive tailored advice in their native language. The app uses AI tools, including data from ChatGPT and the Malawian government’s agricultural manual, to diagnose crop and livestock problems and suggest solutions.

For example, farmers can take a photo of a sick plant or animal, send it via WhatsApp and receive immediate feedback on the issue and how to address it. In one instance, a Malawian farmer used Ulangizi to identify and treat a health issue with her pigs, preventing further losses. This quick response is invaluable, as traditionally, farmers had to wait days or even weeks, for government agricultural extension workers to visit.

Addressing the Challenges of Rural Connectivity

While Ulangizi is empowering Malawian farmers, it also faces several challenges. In many rural areas, such as Ndodo, smartphones are scarce, with one device sometimes shared among 150 people. Connectivity can also be a significant barrier, as mobile network coverage in these areas is limited and data costs remain prohibitive for many farmers.

However, the nonprofit has designed Ulangizi to work on basic phones, ensuring that even those without access to advanced smartphones can benefit from the service. Opportunity International is also working to overcome these connectivity challenges by collaborating with local networks to improve access to affordable data.

Building Resilience

Malawi’s smallholder farmers are particularly vulnerable to climate-related disasters. In addition to cyclone damage, farmers often face erratic rainfall, droughts and soil degradation. Ulangizi helps farmers build resilience by providing knowledge on better agricultural practices, pest control and disease prevention.

With Ulangizi, farmers can make informed decisions about when to plant, what crops to grow and how to manage soil health. By increasing access to this knowledge, the app empowers farmers to improve yields, reduce losses and ultimately increase their income, making agriculture a more sustainable and reliable livelihood.

A Global Model for Smallholder Farmers

The success of Ulangizi in Malawi has caught the attention of other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, where smallholder farmers face similar challenges. Opportunity International plans to expand the app’s reach, building on the feedback collected during its pilot phase.

Globally, smallholder farmers produce a significant portion of the world’s food. Yet, they often yield far less than their potential due to limited access to resources, knowledge and technology. Ulangizi’s AI-powered approach could help bridge this gap, improving productivity and contributing to global food security.

– Georgia de Gidlow

Georgia is based in Watford, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr