How Technology is Closing the Rural Information Gap – Learnings for Uganda.
Rural development catalyst: In many parts of the world, rural communities have long faced an “information gap” —limited access to education, healthcare, markets, and news due to geographic isolation and inadequate infrastructure. However, advancements in technology are rapidly bridging this divide, empowering rural residents with tools that were once urban luxuries. From high-speed internet to AI-driven apps, these innovations are transforming lives and economies. Why’s this important for Uganda? Our bold 10X Growth strategy which embeds full monetization of the economy, thus complete economic inclusion. So, let us learn from elsewhere…
Drivers and pioneers: One key driver is improved connectivity. Initiatives like Spain’s Plan ÚNICO are investing millions to deliver high-speed broadband to rural provinces, ensuring even remote villages have reliable internet. In Colombia, the Centros Digitales program has installed free Wi-Fi in thousands of schools and community centers, connecting over 7,000 institutions and enabling access to online resources. Satellite technologies, such as those used in China’s 2004 program, link rural students to top urban teachers via video, reaching over 100 million learners and boosting educational outcomes.
In agriculture, precision tools are revolutionizing rural productivity. Farmers in India and elsewhere use drones and data analytics for crop monitoring, optimizing yields and reducing waste. Digital platforms connect them directly to markets, bypassing intermediaries for better prices. In Extremadura, Spain, a learning management system (LMS) helped local farmers master phytosanitary regulations through simple videos and quizzes, without travel.
Healthcare is another area of progress. Telemedicine and AI tools in rural India enhance diagnostics, like screening for diabetic retinopathy, improving access in underserved areas. In New Mexico, digital platforms address OB-GYN care gaps, reducing travel burdens for patients. In Australia, rural residents engage highly with digital health apps, supported by clinician endorsements and community training.
Despite challenges like affordability, these technologies foster inclusion. A World Bank study notes that a 10% broadband increase can boost a country’s economy by over 1%. As 5G and AI expand, the rural information gap will narrow further, creating equitable opportunities worldwide.
Our proactive view. At FRIENDS Consult we know that digital inclusion enhances development and thus in our current strategy, there are related services we plan to offer in a highly contextualized way in Uganda and, later, the rest of Arica.
Written by Dr. Keren Obara.
Projects Officer, Marketing and Innovations.