Ushahidi

Definition

Ushahidi is an open-source software platform that was originally developed to collect and visualize real-time data, particularly during crises. It allows users to crowdsource information via mobile devices, maps, and social media, enabling activists and organizations to respond effectively to emergencies and humanitarian issues. This platform exemplifies digital activism techniques by harnessing technology for social change and increasing transparency in times of crisis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ushahidi was created in response to the 2007-2008 post-election violence in Kenya, allowing citizens to report incidents of violence via text messages.
2. The platform aggregates reports on a map, helping to visualize patterns of violence and enabling NGOs and government agencies to respond effectively.
3. Ushahidi's technology has been used globally for various purposes, including monitoring elections, disaster response, and human rights advocacy.
4. The platform emphasizes user-generated content, which empowers communities to document their experiences and share information quickly.
5. Ushahidi has inspired the development of similar platforms worldwide, showcasing the power of technology in facilitating civic engagement and accountability.

Review Questions

• How does Ushahidi utilize crowdsourcing to enhance digital activism during crises?
  • Ushahidi leverages crowdsourcing by allowing individuals to submit reports about incidents they witness during crises through mobile devices or social media. This approach enables the collection of real-time data from various sources, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the situation. By mapping these reports, Ushahidi helps activists and organizations to visualize patterns and respond more effectively, illustrating the power of collective information in digital activism.
• Discuss the impact of Ushahidi on crisis mapping and how it has changed the landscape of humanitarian response.
  • Ushahidi has significantly influenced crisis mapping by demonstrating how technology can be used to aggregate and visualize data during emergencies. Its ability to map reports in real-time allows humanitarian organizations to assess situations quickly and allocate resources where they are needed most. This shift towards data-driven decision-making has transformed the landscape of humanitarian response, making it more efficient and responsive to urgent needs.
• Evaluate the broader implications of Ushahidi's model for future digital activism efforts worldwide.
  • The Ushahidi model has broad implications for future digital activism as it demonstrates how technology can empower individuals and communities to take action during crises. Its open-source nature encourages collaboration among activists globally, allowing for the sharing of tools and strategies that can be adapted to different contexts. As societies face increasing challenges, Ushahidi's approach to utilizing technology for real-time data collection can inspire new forms of civic engagement and activism that prioritize transparency, accountability, and grassroots participation.

Related terms

Crowdsourcing: The practice of obtaining information or services by soliciting contributions from a large group of people, often via the internet.

Geolocation: The identification of the geographical location of an object or person using digital mapping technologies.

Crisis Mapping: The process of using digital tools to create visual representations of events and data during a crisis, often in real-time.