A smiling vendor in a blue apron holding a payment device while a customer hands over a card at a market stall. It is the header image for the Central Insights Unit programme.

Central Insights Unit

Executing in-depth research to address digital development objectives.

About us

The  Central Insights Unit (CIU) sits at the core of GSMA Mobile for Development (M4D) and produces country- and region-specific research and analysis on the role and impact of digital technologies in advancing sustainable and inclusive development.

Our work spans across many themes and verticals including digital inclusion, gender, financial inclusion, agriculture, health, utilities, humanitarian action, and climate action.

The thematically cross-cutting nature of our research means that our knowledge base is wide-ranging. As such, we are uniquely placed to bring to surface emerging opportunities across the digital development landscape.

Our work directly supports international donors to build expertise and capacity as they seek to advance digitalisation initiatives in low- and middle-income countries.

Must-read resources

All our latest news, reports and research in one place.

A person stands outdoors, smiling while looking at a smartphone, their plain gray T-shirt contrasting against a solid red backdrop. The impact of the vibrant hue is softened by the cloudy sky and blurred landscape in the background, suggesting an open and inviting space.

Discover our four-part research series ‘AI for Africa: Use cases delivering impact’

With insights from 100+ industry leaders and analysis of over 90 AI-enabled use cases, read how AI is catalysing socio-economic development in Africa.

Close-up of two hands. One hand pours dried maize kernels into the other, with kernels and chaff falling mid-air.

Blockchain in Agriculture: Global Lessons and the Kenyan Experience

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A bustling outdoor market scene with many people walking, wearing colorful clothing. Some women carry items on their heads or hold containers. The street is crowded and lively with stalls and tarps lining the way.

AI in Ethiopia: Promising Use Cases for Development

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Aerial view of two boats on deep blue water; one large boat and a smaller support boat. A wide fishing net fans out in a sweeping arc from the larger boat, forming a translucent curve on the water’s surface.

Advancing Sustainable Fisheries with Digital Technologies: The Gulf of Thailand

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A young girl in a school uniform raises her hand enthusiastically while holding a tablet. She's engaged with an interactive screen displaying a quiz game with color-coded options: red, blue, yellow, and green. The words "leopard" and "eagle" have an impact on her curiosity and learning spirit.

The Future of Learning:
The Impact of EdTech on Learning Outcomes in the Philippines

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The Central Insights Unit is currently funded by UK International Development from the UK government and is supported by the GSMA and its members. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the UK government’s official
policies.