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Central Insights Unit

Executing in-depth research to address digital development objectives

About the Central Insights Unit

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.

The thematically cross-cutting nature of our work means that our knowledge base is wide-ranging, however emerging technologies such as AI and big data are key focus areas, as we bring clarity to emerging opportunities in digital development. Our work directly supports international donors to build expertise and capacity as they seek to advance digitalisation initiatives in low- and middle-income countries.

Our mission is to leverage M4D expertise for thematically cross-cutting and country-specific thought leadership on digital development.

Must-read resources

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

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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.

Advancing Sustainable Fisheries with Digital Technologies: The Gulf of Thailand

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A child in a school uniform raises their hand enthusiastically while interacting with a large touchscreen displaying a quiz game interface. Colorful options include "leopard," "dog," and "eagle." Another person holds a tablet nearby. A red panel is on the left side of the image.

The Future of Learning:

The Impact of EdTech on Learning Outcomes in the Philippines

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A dense forest scene with tall, dark tree trunks obscured by thick, swirling smoke. The ground appears scorched, and faint orange flames are visible in the background, creating an atmosphere of a recent or ongoing forest fire. The image conveys a sense of destruction and urgency.

Combatting forest fires with AI in Pakistan

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E-commerce
in Africa:
Unleashing the opportunity for MSMEs

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The GSMA Innovation Fund for Impactful AI

Are you a small or growing enterprise leveraging AI in conjunction with mobile technology to create a positive impact on the lives of people in LMICs?

Apply for funding

Fill out this short form and we’ll be in touch.

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Upcoming Publications

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Our Support to the FCDO

Inquiring for our expertise from an FCDO Country Post? Find all the information you need here.

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.