Service line: Enabling Technologies

Project: Study for GSMA on the Responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in Emerging Markets in Africa and APAC

Client: GSMA

Dates: 04/2020 - 06/2020

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UrbanEmerge is undertaking a study to help GSMA’s Mobile for Development (M4D) programme understand what ‘ethical use’ of AI actually means in practice in relation to the SDGs as well as understanding the business models, opportunities and constraints of deploying AI-based solutions in developing markets. AI is broadly understood as the ability of a machine or computer to emulate human tasks through learning and automation. It is becoming increasingly possible and effective with breakthroughs in cheap computing power, cloud computing services, growth in big data and advancements in machine learning and natural language processing. It has the potential to radically alter and improve the way in which governments, companies, organisations and individuals can provide services as well as access information which in turn has the potential to significantly contribute to achieving the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While AI has the potential to achieve social good, positive outcomes are not necessarily guaranteed. There are many fundamental questions about data protection, ingrained bias as a result of poor data collection methods, social inclusion and the responsible use of AI. AI enables new technologies that improve efficiency and productivity, but it may also lead to increased inequalities among and within countries, thus hindering the achievement of the 2030 Agenda. The study will result in an accessible report and a set of practical recommendations for GSMA and their partners including innovators and telecoms operators.The GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications) is an organisation that represents the interests of over 800 mobile network operators worldwide. 

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