Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Media Innovations in Rural Africa: Movies, Mobiles and the Web


Springwise did a year end summary of innovative business ideas, here are a few that caught my eye:
I was slightly caught off-guard by the movie screen business being on the list because I actually saw that particular team present at a business plan competition back in college and even watched an away football game on the inflatable screen but then watched them struggle to find a stable market in the area. I'm glad to see they have taken it to the bottom of the pyramid. I think there is huge potential there in terms of public education, journalism, and rural democracy.

4 comments:

Leslie Forman said...

I really like the inflatable movie screen idea. I think it's important to focus on entertainment and community-building in development, along with basic necessities like food and water. This can have a huge impact on local quality of life, especially if the local people can choose which movies to play...

David Stoker said...

You make an interesting point Leslie, that of, what is the ultimate goal of "development" and what are all the components of a good and meaningful life.

When I was interviewing women in Ghana about their personal finances I was amazed by the apparent disparities between the "expensive" cost of mosquito nets but then their incredible ability to save for weddings and funerals and television sets. I think entertainment, laughing, and social gatherings are hallmarks of a good quality of life and can even overshadow the sorrows and struggles of difficult circumstances.

I wonder if investing in humor and creativity would have similar effects on development much like music classes can have measurable effects on math and reading scores in schools, seemingly disconnected yet strengthening the mind and soul.

socialventure said...

That is awesome! I am looking for the best performing mirco franchise to include in a new social venture we will be launching later this year. Any other recommendations?

Media Innovation said...

I love to try the best performing mirco franchise, Media Innovation is one key for it..