The money will go towards developing new mobile technology designed to help those in developing countries
The UK Government has agreed to fund the GSMA in developing mobile technology designed to tackle poverty suffered by millions around the world.
Financial support will be provided by the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) to help the GSMA develop these new technologies. The developments will be designed to help those in poverty-stricken areas respond to natural disasters faster, obtain financial services and improve access to clean water and energy.
Mobile News has contacted the GSMA for more information on what these technologies are and how much is being invested.
UK International Development Minister Nick Hurd said: “Over the last decade the UK has been at the forefront of bringing the battle against extreme poverty into the digital era. With more people in developing countries using mobiles than ever before, this partnership with the GSMA and its members will increase access to banking services, especially for women, bring access to energy to many for the first time and even vital health information.”
GSMA director general Mats Granryd (pictured) added: “Through our Mobile for Development team, the GSMA has a proven track record in delivering life-enhancing mobile solutions at scale, in critical areas such as mobile money, health and nutrition, agriculture, utilities and many others.
“We welcome the opportunity to partner with DFID to bring the power of mobile to our shared objectives of reaching the underserved and delivering on the Global Goals.”
The GSMA and DFID have worked together over the last three years to help those in poverty using mobile technology. This includes ReadyPay Solar, which allows thousands in Uganda to pay for electricity through their mobile phones. Another improves access to clean water in Rwanda. Mobile sensors are installed in water pumps and alert maintenance workers when a pump stops working.