Could 2025 be the breakthrough year for technology in the Global South?

As the world leaps into 2025, the narrative around technology is no longer dominated by Silicon Valley or other traditional tech hubs. Emerging economies in the Global South are making bold moves, leveraging technology to solve local challenges and redefine their futures. But does this mean 2025 is the year of transformative technological progress for these nations?

Bridging the Digital Divide

For decades, the digital divide has been a critical issue in the Global South, with many countries struggling with limited internet access and inadequate infrastructure. However, 2025 might be the turning point. In Africa, initiatives like Kenya’s Konza Technopolis, often dubbed the “Silicon Savannah,” are coming to fruition. This smart city aims to drive innovation, host technology companies, and foster entrepreneurship, creating jobs and boosting the country’s economy.

Similarly, Nigeria is making strides in financial technology (fintech). The rise of mobile payment platforms like Paga and Flutterwave has made digital financial services accessible to millions, even in rural areas. This digital inclusion is empowering small businesses and individuals, significantly boosting economic activity.

Clean Energy Innovations

As climate change continues to impact the Global South disproportionately, countries in this region are turning to technology to build sustainable solutions. In India, 2025 marks a major milestone in solar energy deployment. The country’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative is leading efforts to make solar power affordable and accessible. India’s innovative solar microgrids are now being replicated in other developing nations, providing off-grid energy solutions to rural communities.

Meanwhile, Brazil is leveraging bioenergy technologies to transform its sugarcane industry into a clean energy powerhouse. By converting agricultural waste into biofuels, Brazil is reducing carbon emissions and fostering energy independence.

AI and Local Languages

Artificial intelligence (AI) has typically been dominated by English and other major languages, but that’s changing in 2025. The Philippines is advancing localised AI tools like iTanong, which provides services in Filipino and other regional languages. This innovation bridges language barriers, enabling millions of citizens to access government services and vital information more easily.

In South Africa, AI is being used to tackle agricultural challenges. Platforms like Aerobotics employ AI-driven drone technology to monitor crop health, helping farmers boost yields and adapt to climate challenges.

Health Tech for All

The Global South has long faced gaps in healthcare access, but 2025 is witnessing a surge in health tech innovations. Rwanda’s use of drone technology to deliver medical supplies to remote areas continues to set a global example. In 2025, these drones are expanding their reach, ensuring life-saving supplies arrive quickly even in the most inaccessible regions.

Similarly, telemedicine platforms in countries like Bangladesh are bridging the healthcare gap for rural populations. By combining mobile connectivity with trained healthcare professionals, these services bring expert care to communities that previously lacked access.

Challenges Ahead

While these breakthroughs are promising, significant hurdles remain. Internet penetration rates in some parts of the Global South are still far below global averages. Infrastructural challenges, coupled with a lack of digital literacy, can slow the adoption of technology. Moreover, concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity are growing as more people come online.

A Glimpse into the Future

Despite these challenges, 2025 may be different. From Africa’s fintech boom to India’s solar revolution, the Global South is harnessing technology not just to catch up but to lead in specific areas. These nations are turning their unique challenges into opportunities, proving that innovation is not confined to the Global North.

Is 2025 truly the breakthrough year for technology in the Global South? The seeds of transformation are undoubtedly being sown, and as these nations continue to innovate, the world will be watching closely.