Google gives Ugandan poor access to data

Internet company Google is to offer free access to health advice, farming tips and other services by mobile phone to people in one of the world’s poorest nations.

The AppLab project will allow mobile users in Uganda to send a text message requesting information on various subjects. The answers are returned by short message service (SMS) text messages.

Users can use AppLab to request health advice, including information on illnesses and diseases, or to find nearby health clinics or medical services.

Ugandans will also be able to list goods for sale or find items to buy from local merchants and trade with their communities. Farmers will be offered weather forecasts and agricultural tips.

The scheme has been implemented in partnership with the Grameen Foundation, an offshoot of the UK-based, pro-poor Grameen Bank.

Half of Uganda’s 32 million people live below the recognized poverty line of $1.25 (75p) per day, but around ten million people own a mobile phone.