New UK funding coming for techpreneurs

The United Kingdom (UK) has announced new funding for entrepreneurs to develop innovative mobile technology to help tackle development challenges around the world.

According to a statement, Development Minister, Andrew Mitchell said the new UK funding for innovative mobile phone technology will help change lives in developing countries.

She underscored that harnessing AI technology to provide real-time agricultural advice to farmers in Nigeria and pay-as-you-go solar powered fridges are just some of the ways UK-funded mobile technology is improving livelihoods globally.

During a speech at Mobile World Congress last week, Mitchell announced the UK is providing £37.3 million of new support for the Mobile for Development Programme, to help more people access mobile and digital technologies to find new opportunities and boost their livelihoods.

According to her, the programme, which the UK funds in partnership with UK-based mobile industry association GSMA and the private sector, has already benefitted more than 94 million people and focuses on women and girls, climate change mitigation, adaptation and resilience and scaling up innovative solutions.

“Mobile technology has the potential to revolutionise the lives of the poor by helping tackle the effects of climate change, creating jobs and boosting opportunities for women.”