UN and Robo-Delivery of Aid

A World Food Programme official from the United Nations announced that robotic and artificial intelligence-based transportation vehicles may begin distributing food packages to conflict and disaster areas as early as next year, a measure aimed at saving the lives of humanitarian aid workers. Bernard Kuoch, head of innovation at the World Food Programme, stated, "Sometimes sending a driver or program staff is extremely dangerous. Therefore, using such technology could make a significant difference." Kuoch was speaking on the sidelines of a conference organized by the International Telecommunication Union in Geneva to support the use of artificial intelligence in achieving United Nations goals such as eradicating hunger. These amphibious vehicles can carry around one or two tons of food. He noted that the concept of these vehicles first emerged during the Aleppo battle in Syria between 2012 and 2016, when humanitarian workers faced difficulties delivering aid to parts of the city. He added that aerial drops were costly and required large spaces that were not available in that part of Syria. Kuoch mentioned that the UN programme is already using about 50 vehicles in South Sudan, but there are no drivers operating them. He indicated that South Sudan, where approximately 7.7 million people suffer from food insecurity and floods that hinder access, is set to be the first area to start distributing food packages using these vehicles. Artificial intelligence is utilized to gather information from various sources including satellites and sensors, allowing remote drivers to navigate and control the vehicles.