October 2024

AI4D Barcelona.

In recent years, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into humanitarian initiatives has been transforming the way organizations respond to crises and assist vulnerable populations. During my keynote at AI4D, in Norrsken Barcelona, I delved into the manifold ways AI can support humanitarian organizations. My presentation explored the evolving AI landscape, lessons learned, and the path forward for leveraging AI to address global humanitarian challenges

AI Applications in Humanitarian Work

I opened the keynote with a broad view of how AI is reshaping humanitarian operations. Key areas of investment and prioritization include:

• AI Lifecycle & Socio-Technical Systems: Emphasizing system design thinking to ensure AI solutions are robust, ethical, and context-aware.

• AI Applications: From large language models (LLMs) and generative AI to business intelligence and relief chatbots, AI is driving productivity, efficiency, and engagement across humanitarian organizations.

• Operational Impact: Early warning systems powered by AI can reduce disaster damage by up to 30% in the first 24 hours. Business intelligence tools are cutting operational costs by up to 30% and boosting efficiency by 40%. Remote sensing and drone imaging are halving damage assessment times.

Real World Use Cases

The presentation showcased practical AI applications:

• Computer Vision & GenAI: Analyzing drone data for field mapping, crop health, and damage assessment.

• AI Analytics: Supporting resource distribution and needs analysis, helping local governments optimize agricultural yields.

• LLMs for Data Practices: Enhancing data quality, accessibility, and reporting for local operations.

• AI Literacy: Combating misinformation and fostering innovation to reduce conflict and improve livelihoods.

• Task Automation: AI agents and bots are automating software development and data operations, addressing staff turnover and limited technical capacity.

• Relief Chatbots: Improving beneficiary engagement and information access during crises.

AI Trends

What’s driving AI adoption in the humanitarian sector?

• Global Investment & Donor Interest: Increased funding and ready-to-deploy AI products are accelerating adoption.

• Productivity Gains: Mass usage is delivering observable value, reducing the burden on field staff.

• AI as a Service: Off-the-shelf tools are making advanced capabilities accessible with low financial risk.

• Risks & Policy Needs: The sector must address AI risks, policy requirements, and the need for responsible governance.

Challenges and Path Forward

Despite the promise, scaling AI in humanitarian contexts faces hurdles:

• Data Readiness & Lifecycle Management: Ensuring high-quality data and robust evaluation frameworks.

• Human-Centered Design: Keeping solutions focused on real-world needs.

• Resource Constraints & Talent Gaps: Addressing limited technical capacity and high costs.

• Digital Inequalities: Bridging gaps in connectivity and literacy.

• Sustainability & Localization: Investing in local innovation, risk management, and decolonizing technology for lasting impact.

WFP's AI Journey

Lastly I briefly highlighted some of the ongoing initiatives I am leading at WFP:

• Governance & Data Literacy: Building modern data platforms and evaluation frameworks.

• Risk Management: Developing policies for risk mitigation and knowledge management.

• Forecasting & Damage Assessment: Using AI for evidence mining and operational improvement.

• Investing in People: Prioritizing workforce development and ethical AI practices

Conclusion and Future Directions

AI is rapidly transforming humanitarian action, offering new tools to enhance efficiency, accountability, and impact. The path forward requires responsible governance, investment in local capacity, and a relentless focus on ethical, sustainable solutions. As the discourse around AI and its applications in humanitarian contexts continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly clear that embracing these technologies can lead to meaningful advancements in the field. At AI4D, my engagement as a keynote speaker was not just an opportunity to share insights but also a chance to be inspired by the many efforts among the humanitarian community to harness AI responsibly.

For more insights or to connect, reach out to nasim.motalebi@wfp.org.