Welcome to issue 75 of the Call to Comms!
As we come to the end of the first 2024 semester, we are happy to share with you the key highlights, milestones, and updates of TSF’s missions so far.
For this 75th issue of the newsletter, we are also pleased to announce some changes. Indeed, this is the last issue of Call to Comms to be sent out on a weekly basis, as we move to a twice-monthly publication. Stay tuned for this evolution in TSF communications!
Hurricane Beryl: TSF on the ground
“Thanks for the Wi-Fi! I don’t have a radio anymore, can’t listen to the news. How do I know if another hurricane is coming at us?”
In Jamaica, TSF is taking part in assessments and setting up a Wi-Fi access point for affected people and NGOs distributing food and aid.
The first 6 months of action
From January to June 2024, TSF supported 97,640 persons in 8 countries.
Ongoing Projects
Connectivity for Internally Displaced People (IDPs) in Ukraine
TSF provides connectivity to 15 shelters hosting internally displaced people, connecting over 4,000 people in the last six months. 91% of them use the Internet to contact their loved ones, and 68% of those employed use it for work.
“The Internet was weak all the time until TSF installed the Wi-Fi. We had to climb the hill outside to try and find a connection. The whole family left, and communication was needed. Communication gives us life support and hope. And this is very important.”
Nataliia, an IDP from Ukraine.
Access to Information for Migrants and Refugees in Latin America
The first half of 2024 saw an increase in migration flows in Central America. TSF provided reliable and essential information to displaced people in 25 shelters, enabling 57% of them to make an important decision based on this information.
The team in Mexico identified new shelters to display information in, mostly in Guatemala. They involved current partner shelters, local organizations and allies in the project, making it more sustainable, local and collaborative.
“I feel safe because it is reliable information and I believe it helps prevent dangers.”
Honduran immigrant woman, 46 years old.
Digital Inclusion in Madagascar
In the first 6 months of 2024, nearly 2,000 Malagasy visited the IT Cup center to advance their studies, use the cybercafé or participate in the different workshops and training offered. Over 100 students take an initiation course on using the Internet every month.
"I've been using this cyber center for 2 years now. It's been beneficial because I've noticed improvements in my daily life thanks to my internet research, such as getting good grades at school. Apart from that, I can take online courses such as personalized tutoring, which I find very useful for my studies. In my case, we can deduce that digital technology is an asset for us, and it's important to use it responsibly."
Jean, a 20-year-old student.
Connectivity for Migrants and Refugees in Bosnia and the Mediterranean
Many people make perilous journeys in search of safety, sometimes taking refuge in migrant camps. There, they often cannot find emotional support from loved ones or information without the Internet. TSF provides connectivity in a camp in Bosnia, used by over 7,000 people in the first half of 2024.
Thousands of migrants drown every year during their journey. NGOs carry out rescue operations, and see how distressed people can be when they are unable to assure their loved ones that they are alive. TSF created a humanitarian notification system that enables rescued people to securely notify their families and assure them that they are safe. In the first half of 2024, the solution was used by more than 1,000 survivors.
Completed Projects
Digital Literacy Training for Women in Syria
Earlier this year, TSF carried out digital literacy training for 200 women in Syria, in partnership with Syrian partner Zoom In Organization. The training focused on three main themes: protection from electronic blackmail, digital security, and Internet safety.
“I heard a lot about cases where women were blackmailed and reached the stage of suicide. Through this training, we learned how to deal with any case of blackmail.”
Zakia, a participant.
Capacity Sharing Training in Brunei
TSF acted as facilitator on emergency telecoms at a training event during the 15th ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team Induction Course, to support regional preparedness.
The team participated in a simulation exercise for participants, recreating an emergency situation where a disaster strikes, affecting telecommunications and organizations that need to make a rapid assessment, mobilize assistance and coordinate their response.
Thank you for following us during this first half of the year! TSF’s work is possible thanks to the work of our teams on the ground and the support of our partners.
See you in two weeks!
Member discussion