Does AI Speak Your Language? African Voices & Explosive Braille Tech

From underserved African languages to a revolutionary Braille display — the latest Somewhere on Earth podcast covers stories that matter. Story 1 – AI and African LanguagesHausa, spoken by 94 million people, is understood by ChatGPT only 10-20% of the time. The issue? Lack of training data. A team behind African Next Voices has recorded 9,000 hours of speech across eighteen African languages, creating datasets to train AI and finally bring these languages online. Dr Ife Adebara CTO of EqualizeAI and Lead Solutions Engineer at Data Science Nigeria shares insights into the challenges, scope, and wider economic potential of this project. Story 2 – Micro-Explosive BrailleMost braille displays only show one line at a time, limiting access to complex content. A team from Cornell, MIT, and Michigan Universities has developed a multiline braille display using micro-explosions of fuel gas in silicone sheets to raise dots safely and rapidly. Tested successfully with users, this innovation could bring tactile reading into classrooms, libraries, and homes, while opening applications in VR, AR, and biomedical research.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: AI models are neglecting African languages — scientists want to change that Explosion-powered eversible tactile displays   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: [email protected] Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🌍✨ Somewhere on Earth is back! This week:🔹Why AI fails 94M Hausa speakers — and the project fixing it.🔹The explosive new Braille tech changing classrooms forever. 🎧 Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast |New episodes every Tuesday 21:00 BST. #Podcast #AI #Africa #Braille #TechForGood Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Internet is unsafe if you’re LGBTQ+ in Africa – and Big Tech isn’t helping Being online should be empowering - but for LGBTQ+ communities across Africa, it’s often dangerous. A new survey from digital rights group Access Now reveals how queer people are suffering harassment, threats, and abuse across social platforms. Instead of offering protection, major tech companies are turning a blind eye, leaving millions vulnerable. On this episode, we speak to Jaimee Kokonya, Africa Campaigner at Access Now, about the reality of digital life when simply logging on can put your safety at risk. Your AI browser extension could be spying on you Those handy AI browser assistants might be giving away more than they promise. A team at University College London has revealed that some of these popular extensions are quietly collecting highly sensitive data, including medical information and even social security details. We speak with Dr Anna Maria Mandalari, senior author of the study, about how these tools trade privacy for convenience, which extensions failed the test, and the one that actually passed. If you’ve installed one of these add-ons, you’ll want to hear this before your next click. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Digital Rights LGBTQ+ Africa Rainbow-burning: how social media companies increase risks for LGBTQ+ people in Africa AI web browser assistants raise serious privacy concerns Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: [email protected] Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth; The Global Tech Podcast… When the Internet turns against you. We hear how LGBTQ+ communities across Africa are being targeted with horrific abuse on social platforms – while Big Tech looks the other way. We speak to Access Now’s Jaimee Kokonya on why being online is an act of bravery. And… is your AI assistant spying on you? Research from University College London shows some popular browser extensions are harvesting your most sensitive data. Professor Anna Maria Mandalari reveals which extensions failed the test, which one passed, and how to protect yourself. The tech stories that matter with Gareth Mitchell and Ania Lichtarowicz. Out this Tuesday at 2100BST. Subscribe to “Somewhere on Earth” wherever you get your podcasts. https://open.spotify.com/show/65YZwVfA03MSdZ3198yLdb https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast/id1713408769   Search for the PodExtra edition for even more in-depth analysis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brazil Declared War on Phone Theft — Should the UK Do the Same? The UK’s battle against mobile phone theft is being hindered by a standoff between law enforcement and major handset manufacturers. Police want to use IMEI blocking to quickly disable stolen devices, but Apple and Google disagree on the approach. The deadlock raises questions about privacy, data access, and the most effective way to render stolen phones useless.  While the UK remains stuck in debate, Brazil’s major players - from telecoms to government agencies - are working together to tackle phone theft head-on. Sao Paulo-based tech company Qintess has developed a multi-layered system: detecting cloned devices through call pattern analysis, a secure app that lets users remotely lock stolen phones, and a restricted IMEI list that instantly renders devices unusable. The result is a coordinated, nationwide shield against phone crime.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Ania Lichtarowicz   More on this week's stories: Safe Cell Phone App Qintess Apple and Google clash with Police over mobile phone theft Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: [email protected] Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GigU: Empowering ride-hailing and delivery drivers to take back control In Brazil, many ride-hailing and food delivery drivers face the harsh reality of low earnings — sometimes even paying to work. GigU is changing that. The startup’s app acts as a “smart co-pilot,” showing drivers whether a job will actually be profitable before they accept it. Co-founder Luiz Neves shares how this technology is helping gig workers earn more, gain independence, and stand up to industry giants — even sparking lawsuits from the very companies it’s challenging. Voz Futura: Brazilian football star leads movement for positive news The 24/7 news cycle can feel overwhelmingly negative, but a new Brazilian media venture wants to rewrite that narrative. Voz Futura, co-founded by professional international footballer Danilo Luiz and journalist Pedro Pirim Rodrigues, is dedicated to replacing damaging headlines with stories of hope, achievement, and progress. By leveraging storytelling and technology, they aim to shift public perception, inspire communities, and make the media landscape a healthier space for all. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Angelica Mari.   More on this week's stories: GigU Voz Futura   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: [email protected] Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Medsi AI: The selfie and voice scan revolutionizing healthcare in Mexico In this week’s episode, we explore an innovative health platform called Medsi AI that can measure your heart rate and assess mental well-being - just from a one-minute selfie and a short voice recording. Developed in Mexico to address a health system struggling to meet the needs of an ageing population, Medsi AI is working alongside the government to expand access to care. With over half of healthcare spending coming directly from individuals and millions without coverage, this cutting-edge tool offers a glimpse into the future of affordable, accessible health diagnostics. Maes Negras: Creating opportunities for black mothers in Brazil We also shine a light on Maes Negras, a Brazilian platform dedicated to helping black mothers secure employment, gain mentorship, and grow their businesses. Founded by Thais Lopes, the initiative offers a one-stop solution for career support, skill development, and networking opportunities. In a country where systemic barriers still limit opportunities for many, Maes Negras is building a pathway for economic empowerment and long-term success for one of Brazil’s most underrepresented communities. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Angelica Mari.   More on this week's stories: MedsiAI Maes Negras   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: [email protected] Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Blockchain Revolution: How the Hive community is bringing clean water to villages in Ghana This week we meet McSamm who fell violently ill from contaminated water in rural Ghana. He didn’t just recover though, he revolutionized access to clean water. Partnering with Hive’s blockchain community, he raised funds to install 22 boreholes in remote villages. These often solar-powered systems (minimizing electricity costs) now deliver safe water to 300,000+ people - with villagers maintaining ownership and young people learning blockchain skills for future projects. Jungle Guardians: Greenbug’s AI sound sensors battle illegal mining & wildfires in South America’s remote rainforests Unusual noises and AI are stopping illegal logging and saving crops in Brazil. We met Greenbug founder Marcelo Vieira at Web Summit Rio and he revealed how Greenbug’s AI-powered acoustic sensors listen 24/7 for threats in ecosystems like the Amazon. These ‘digital guardians’ detect illegal mining equipment, smuggling boats, wildfires, and even invasive species - sending real-time alerts with geolocation to rangers and farmers before disasters escalate. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ *(P.S. Got a story like Steve Clark’s? WhatsApp us: +44 7486 329 484)* Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: [email protected]   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Somewhere on Earth is bought to you with the support of RoostEdge.   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No Internet for a year: Why Equatorial Guinea has kept Annobón island offline For 12 months, the people of Annobón, an island province of Equatorial Guinea, have lived in a digital blackout - cut off from the world with no explanation. Why would a government deliberately silence its own citizens? In this episode of Somewhere on Earth, we speak with Tutu Alicante (EG Justice) and Felicia Anthonio (Access Now) about the shocking reality of one of the world’s longest-running internet shutdowns. Digital rights groups are now demanding action - but will the world listen?  From oil giant to climate ally? How Petrobras is unlocking emissions data for the world What if the key to fighting climate change wasn’t just more data - but making it accessible to everyone? In a groundbreaking partnership, Brazil’s Petrobras and tech hub CESAR have transformed dense emissions reports into an interactive public dashboard tracking G20 nations’ climate progress. Could making this complex scientific data easily accessible and understandable bring real change? 💡 Want more investigative journalism? Support Somewhere on Earth for $10US/month at Pod.fan or Buy Us a Coffee! The best way to help? Share this episode with a friend. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: Access Now – Keep it On Campaign - Annobón EG Justice Petrobas/CESAR Climate Data Dashboard   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: [email protected] Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bridechilla x Somewhere on Earth - Episode 2 What happens when Bridechilla meets Somewhere on Earth? Tech, tradition, and a touch of tulle collide in the second of two special crossover episodes, exploring how technology is transforming weddings around the world.  In Episode 2, hosts Gareth Mitchell and Leah Haslage dive into intimacy tech, virtual reality ceremonies and even hologram guests with award-winning body-tech pioneer and regular Somewhere on Earth studio expert Professor Ghislaine Boddington.  You’ll hear how today’s weddings are blending real-world love with digital innovation - from heartbeat-sharing smart rings to 360° livestreamed vows, and NFT wedding certificates in the metaverse. Plus, a special field report from India with Somewhere on Earth studio expert  Chhavi Sachdev, revealing how the wedding tech boom is revolutionizing big fat Indian weddings. The show is presented by Leah Haslage and Gareth Mitchell. More on this week's stories: Ghislaine Boddington Bridechilla Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: [email protected]   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices