Mobile phones

The World Bank’s Digital Connectivity Tracker reveals that while mobile phone and internet access are expanding rapidly across developing economies, significant inequalities persist – especially for women, low-income, and rural populations – making smartphone ownership a key determinant of digital inclusion.

Research on Ghana found that providing low-income adults with small, regular mobile communication credits significantly reduced mental distress and domestic violence during COVID-19.

Monitoring a programme by calling recipients is a cost-effective way to improve implementation quality

Farmers with access to digital agricultural extension shared more information with their peers and became sought-after members of farmer peer groups