Community connectivity and digital skills
Challenge
In Guayaquil, limited connectivity and livelihood opportunities – in a context of increasing insecurity and violence – drives communities to negative coping mechanisms and prevents them accessing digital education, livelihood, and protection opportunities.
Solution
Using blockchain technology, UNHCR will facilitate a decentralised, innovative, low-cost, community-based internet service that can be managed by community members to facilitate access to digital livelihood opportunities. Nonprofit Girls in Tech has trained 30 young community members to strengthen their digital skills and familiarize themselves with this service.
Impact
150 people benefit from affordable, community-managed connectivity services, enhanced digital inclusion, skill-acquisition, and sustainable livelihoods, with a business model that could potentially be scaled up. A further 10,000 people indirectly benefit.
Project impact
Other information
Watch the video below and read more about the community's experience of this project here and the innovation approach here.