Cisco Leverages Responsible AI in Humanitarian Response

Cisco Systems Inc. is exploring how responsible AI can change the way organizations assess humanitarian needs in crisis situations. The company has partnered with nonprofit organizations that are leveraging AI's potential to expedite and transform data collection, analysis, and response.

In a recent series of articles, Cisco examined how AI can be used responsibly in humanitarian settings. The first installment focused on the importance of accurate information in emergency situations and how AI can help accelerate data collection and analysis.

KoboToolbox, an open-source platform developed by Kobo, is one such partner that has integrated responsible AI capabilities into its tool. The platform allows field teams to capture detailed observations in real-time using automated speech-to-text transcription and AI-assisted translation features.

The tool also includes AI-powered form building, which enables non-expert users to design high-quality surveys quickly. This feature helps relief workers gather more actionable data faster than ever before.

Tino Kreutzer, Chief Operating & Innovation Officer at Kobo, emphasized the importance of prioritizing ethical principles such as accuracy, privacy, and reliability in all their work. He noted that they assess potential risks and test model reliability using synthetic data before deploying AI-powered features.

KoboToolbox's AI features were put to the test during a pilot with UN Women across 14 countries in the Middle East and North Africa. The tool significantly reduced the time required to transcribe and translate responses, ensuring sensitive data stayed secure and within the control of responsible organizations.