Humanitarian & Disaster Technologist
Writing on technology, crisis response, and the future of humanitarian aid — drawn from 15 years working in the field.
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AI and Machine Learning for Anticipatory Action: Proactive Disaster Response in 2026
3–5 minutes729 wordsRead more: AI and Machine Learning for Anticipatory Action: Proactive Disaster Response in 2026The traditional paradigm of disaster response has long been reactive, mobilizing aid only after a crisis strikes. However, the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters, coupled with complex humanitarian emergencies, demand a more proactive approach. In 2026, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are at the forefront of a revolutionary shift towards anticipatory action, enabling humanitarian organizations to predict, prepare for, and mitigate the impact of disasters before they fully unfold. This article explores how advanced AI/ML models are transforming early warning systems, resource pre-positioning, and community resilience building, ushering in an era of proactive humanitarianism. The Evolution…
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Localized AI and Digital Sovereignty: Breaking the Dependency on “Global North” Tools in 2026
3–4 minutes669 wordsRead more: Localized AI and Digital Sovereignty: Breaking the Dependency on “Global North” Tools in 2026For years, the humanitarian sector has been heavily dependent on AI tools and data platforms developed in the Global North. In 2026, a significant shift is underway toward “localized AI” and “digital sovereignty.” This movement is driven by a desire for tools that are culturally relevant, linguistically accurate, and unencumbered by the “red tape” and biases often found in large-scale Western platforms. From community-led language models to localized Agentic AI for disaster response, the Global South is increasingly demonstrating that innovation is most effective when it is homegrown. This transition is not just about technical efficiency; it is a fundamental…
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And so it begins…
1–2 minutes156 wordsRead more: And so it begins…Welcome to my new blog. After over 7 years of working with and developing technology for use in disaster response and humanitarian aid work I decided that the time had come to share my experiences and insights. This blog will be the medium for this. It will be a mix of reviews and field reports of the various types of hardware & software that I’ve used over the years as well as general insights into new technologies, products and trends for the sector. I will work to keep the postings interesting, relevant and at regular intervals. Please remember that views…