The GSMA is acutely aware that there currently exists between 1-1.5 billion people around the world without affordable access to mobile services. We therefore established the GSMA Development Fund, the purpose of which is to catalyse the uptake of initiatives that use GSM technology for social, economic and environmental development. In its first year of operation, we have identified and delivered pilot projects that are already bringing such benefits to local communities. In the last twelve months the GSMA and its partners have made huge strides in demonstrating the social and economic potential at the 'bottom of the pyramid,' and the inherent opportunities available for all members of the mobile value chain*

Established in October 2005, the GSMA Development Fund was built on the success of the Emerging Market Handset (EMH) programme, an initiative that successfully fostered the launch of ultra-low cost, sub US$30 handsets from Motorola.

The Fund is well placed to highlight and accelerate the work already being carried out by operators to bridge the digital divide. The concept of 'Shared Access' is one of the successful initiatives aimed at providing mobile communications to all, whilst fostering a business practice that is both socially responsible and profitable for all stakeholders. The rapid scale up of the GSMA backed pilots, from a standing start a year ago to 11 pilots in 7 countries today, shows that operators who do not yet have a Shared Access solution can take services to market quickly and cheaply.

Beyond shared access initiatives, we now have a disease surveillance programme - starting with two pilot projects that demonstrate how GSM technologies can be used to help track the spread of diseases, such as HIV/AIDS and Avian Flu. Other new initiatives include the support of conservation efforts, the powering of base stations using alternative energy sources, and the provision of industry-based training and skills development for the unemployed in developing countries.

* All projects have been delivered with commercial rigour and discipline, and without the need for support aid.