Innovations and Interdisciplinary Solutions for Underserved Areas

Abstract

Limited access to electricity in rural Africa impedes the human and economic development in these areas by restricting access to information. In addition, data collection in this region remains a costly and time consuming endeavor. However, recent developments in solar energy and the fast adoption of mobile phones present new opportunities to reach people living in African villages. In this paper, we present an innovative solution that combines a relatively inexpensive, solar-powered movie projection kit with a simple USSD based mobile application to provide entertainment in villages, while collecting data in a cost effective, real-time manner. The results from a pilot project in 8 villages where we deployed this solution highlight the possibility of obtaining detailed and instantaneous market data for advertisers, whilst simultaneously entertaining audiences with high quality content. We also discuss additional possible uses for the solution in other sectors such as health and education.