Opportunity International, a nonprofit organization, has developed an AI chatbot called Ulangizi to assist rural farmers in Malawi with crop and animal-related queries. This app allows farmers to ask questions in Chichewa, their native language, and receive responses based on information from the government’s agricultural manual. Farmers like Maron Galeta have praised the app for providing quick and accessible information, eliminating the need to wait for agriculture extension workers to visit their farms. This initiative aims to empower impoverished communities by leveraging AI technology to provide valuable insights and support.
In an effort to expand the use of AI-based solutions in other impoverished communities, Opportunity International recently held an acceleration incubator for humanitarian workers worldwide. Participants pitched AI-based ideas and worked with mentors from institutions like Microsoft and Amazon to develop them. Three winning apps were selected, focusing on assisting African farmers with crop and climate strategy, supporting teachers with lesson planning, and helping school leaders with administration management. Each winner will receive around $150,000 in funding to pilot their apps in their communities, with the goal of reaching millions of people within two years.
Greg Nelson, the CTO of Opportunity, believes that AI has the potential to level the playing field for individuals who have traditionally faced barriers to accessing knowledge and expertise. He views AI as a democratizing force, particularly in conjunction with mobile technology, and hopes that these initiatives will demonstrate its transformative power. The organization’s emphasis on using AI to address specific challenges faced by clients in high-poverty areas reflects a commitment to creating tailored solutions that have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
Opportunity International employees from various regions participated in brainstorming sessions for the incubator, generating over 200 ideas for AI-based solutions. Many of these ideas stemmed from the employees’ experiences working closely with clients in impoverished areas and understanding their unique needs. By harnessing the potential of generative AI technology, these employees seek to provide targeted support and resources to communities facing significant challenges. The success of the incubator program highlights the innovative ways in which AI can be utilized to address complex problems and create positive change.
Overall, Opportunity International’s AI initiatives demonstrate the organization’s commitment to leveraging technology for social good and empowering underserved communities. By developing AI-based solutions like Ulangizi and supporting innovative projects through incubator programs, Opportunity aims to make valuable resources and expertise more accessible to those in need. Through partnerships with leading tech companies and a focus on community-driven solutions, Opportunity International is leading the way in using AI to address global challenges and improve the lives of individuals in high-poverty areas.
