Digital Divide & the Question of Refugees

Access to internet is a basic human rights, declared the United Nations in 2016. Advances in internet technology mirror advances in human progress as a whole. Witnessing the rapid advancement of internet technology over the past 30 years has been truly remarkable a stride. We see this from innovative digital solutions which to many were just mere wishes decades ago. Take the example of the rapid evolution of the AI-related technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), Chat GPT, AI robotics, and the FinTech, among others. Taken together, these technologies make life easier, better and more efficient.

This transition however, excludes refugee camps, and the millions who inhabit them. Digital technology like access to mobile phones, mobile money services like MPesa, and solar powered electricity can be lifelines, offering connectivity and access to essential services. This is not the case for many refugees who face barriers such as limited connectivity, lack of digital literacy, and high cost of internet data. Besides the access constraints, digital services can also be unaffordable or inaccesible for refugees with limited financial resources, restricting their ability to stay connected to digital resources. This further isolates them from fully interacting with these tools.

Data obtained from the United Nations’ Refugee Agency reveals that only 17% of refugees live in areas with 3G network. As the world races towards the 5G, refugees cannot even access nor afford the older digital technologies. This not only creates access poverty but also digital injustice. The problem is compounded by the fact that globally, refugees are 50% more likely to own an internet incapable mobile phone than the general population. Refugees grapple with this reality everyday, facing both the access, and capacity constraints which further denies them an opportunity to enjoy their rights.

As a refugee-facing initiative, Tedi Africa leverages digital technologies to ensure access, and capabilities of refugees. We provide innovative digital services, and products to refugees, bringing them closer to the world they envision. We believe in the words of UNHCR’s Filippo Grandi who declared:

“By helping refugees maintain social networks and access information and essential services, mobile phones andinternet access are as critical to refugees’ safety and security as are food, shelter, and water.”

Do you think refugees could also contribute immensely in this technological revolution if given a chance? If you do, join us today, and let’s digitize the refugees to better the world.

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