I have frequently been surprised to see people in Nairobi’s slums carrying mobile phones. It has always struck me as remarkable that people with an income so low that they are unable to afford an adequate diet should prioritise a technological gadget such as a phone over their own food and shelter.
Nonetheless, it seems that there is an important correlation between the use of mobile phones and increased economic prosperity. Better access to communications leads to “empowerment”, and a study has revealed that an increase of 10 mobile phones per 100 people could increase GDP growth by 0.6%.
According to a BBC news report, mobile phones will be made available to nearly half a million people living in rural poverty in Africa, in a move which is expected to boost the local economy and improve education and healthcare. Ericsson has donated the infrastructure and solar chargers for the phones.