Geekcorps Mali, Powered by VIA Technology
9 June 2006 in News, Mali by Wayan Vota
At the VIA Technology Forum’s Emerging Markets Technology Track today, Wayan Vota presented Mali Micro Enterprise Development, Powered by VIA Technology, detailing the two programs that use VIA systems.
First Wayan described how VIA’s Mini-ITX form factor allowed Geekcorps to empower community radio stations in Mali to create, store, and share their own content - giving “voice” to previously isolated and marginalized communities.
Then he spoke about how VIA’s PHD Appliance allows Geekcorps to develop the Cybertigi, a kiosk for micro entrepreneurs to sell cyber services on market days in rural Mali.
Both systems operate in the high-heat, high-dust, low-electricity environment found in remote communities in Mali and are so energy efficient, they can run off car batteries recharged by solar panels.
Papou Coulibaly is young boutique owner in Ouélessébougou. Previously, Geekcorps partnered with Papou to create a Cybertigi - an Internet access point for the local community via a wireless link to a Community Information & Learning Center (CLIC).