Leveraging Technology to Combat Global Poverty

Team Thoughts

Over three billion individuals worldwide survive on less than $2.50 per day. Yet, innovative minds continually dedicate their efforts to addressing this pressing issue. From enhancing global health to teaching literacy or connecting isolated markets to the broader economy, technological advancements are playing a pivotal role in reducing poverty worldwide.

By offering cost-effective, accessible, and reliable technical solutions, technology has the power to uplift developing nations. Small-scale farmers benefit from agribusiness innovations, educational opportunities expand through digital platforms, and essential resources like energy and water become more secure. These affordable technologies are vital in improving the living conditions of those in need.

In many developing regions, over 80% of the population relies on the informal economy for survival. This sector consists of unregulated and untaxed economic activities that fall outside official records, posing unique challenges for sustainable development. Harnessing technology provides a pathway to formalize these economies, ensuring greater security and opportunity for marginalized communities.

Technology has opened doors to possibilities once considered unimaginable or unattainable. For example, with just a smartphone or tablet, individuals in impoverished communities can now self-assess their poverty levels in under 30 minutes. This innovation empowers families in disadvantaged urban slums or remote villages to understand and evaluate their circumstances for the first time, offering a sense of agency and control over their futures.

The most promising aspect of this breakthrough lies in its scalability. While initially adopted by organizations like Compassion, it holds tremendous potential for NGOs worldwide working to combat poverty.

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of eradicating poverty and hunger by 2030 requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing policy reform, economic advancements, social initiatives, and organizational action. Emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G wireless networks, blockchain, and other cutting-edge tools are proving to be indispensable in this journey, providing innovative ways to meet these ambitious targets.

Consider the following examples:

The World Bank estimates that up to 78% of the global poor reside in rural areas and depend on agriculture for sustenance and income. Improving agricultural efficiency is a critical pathway to boosting their livelihoods. Innovative Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and the insights they generate can help rural farmers optimize their operations — from increasing crop yields to reducing fertilizer and water usage. By providing real-time data and actionable analytics, IoT solutions empower farmers to make informed decisions, reducing crop failure risks, lowering production costs, and enhancing yields. These advancements not only contribute to improved income but also create more secure and sustainable lifestyles for farming communities. Additionally, IoT enables access to broader markets, connecting farmers directly with buyers and reducing reliance on intermediaries.

While IoT technologies offer significant benefits, their full potential depends on reliable access to high-speed Internet — a resource that remains unavailable to nearly 4 billion people, particularly in rural areas. However, this gap is gradually closing. Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations and the deployment of 5G wireless networks are poised to revolutionize connectivity, bringing high-speed Internet access to over 500,000 farms, even in the most remote regions. The capabilities of 5G, including ultra-high bandwidth and ultra-low latency, will unlock transformative opportunities. Live-streamed online classrooms can provide children with quality education, while adults gain access to online learning platforms and vocational training in fields like computer networking. Research consistently highlights education as one of the most effective tools for poverty alleviation, making these advancements crucial for empowering underprivileged communities worldwide.

In many developing nations, the lack of reliable property recording systems makes it almost impossible for individuals to prove ownership of the land they inhabit. Without a verified title or deed, they are unable to buy or sell property, establish creditworthiness, or access loans—key financial tools needed to improve their economic situation. In India, for instance, the absence of legal land ownership is a more significant contributor to poverty than illiteracy or the caste system. To address this issue, distributed ledger technology, commonly known as blockchain, is being explored as an innovative solution. In Ghana, the non-profit organization Bitland has implemented a blockchain-based digital land registry. This system combines transaction records with GPS data and satellite imagery to help secure property rights.

The immutable nature of blockchain records ensures they are nearly impossible to falsify, offering a trustworthy method to validate ownership. This capability extends to establishing credit, enabling landowners to open bank accounts, access financial services, and engage in transactions. By promoting financial inclusion, blockchain technology is laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth in underprivileged communities. Technological innovations such as IoT, 5G, and blockchain are playing a pivotal role in improving the lives and working conditions of billions of people. When combined with sound economic and social policies, these technologies are breaking the cycle of poverty. By connecting infrastructure, communication networks, and communities, they are paving the way for achieving the United Nations' 2030 goal of eradicating extreme poverty globally.

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About author: Maria Krüger, Head of partners engagement, Linvelo?

[email protected]