Cash technology

Digital technology has the potential to transform the way in which cash programmes operate. Mobile payment platforms are already demonstrating how new technologies can have a great impact on efficiencies and convenience for people receiving cash assistance. This is just one example of the potential for the use of technology in this sector.

For more information on specific areas of innovation in cash technology, see the following:

> Blockchain and DLT

> RedRose Toolkit

Key resources

Humanitarian Digital Identities and DIGID Project in Kenya (webinar recording)
Blockchain and distributed ledger technologies (DLT) in the humanitarian sector
Community Inclusion Currencies (white paper)
Resources on the Cash Hub Webinar 4 on adapting CVA programmes to COVID-19 with the use of data and digital technology (including recording of the webinar, Q&A and summary)

29 December 2021

Next Level Integration with Financial Service Providers in Kenya and the Netherlands

Type:

Case study

Organization:

510

This case study gives an overview of integrating cash distribution with financial service providers (FSPs) using the 121 platform, a CVA program management tool through examples of two pilots projects led by 510, the data and digital initiative of the Netherlands Red Cross (NLRC).

22 November 2021

Digitisation of the CVA programme in Botswana – Remote Cash IM in practice

Type:

Case study

Organization:

510

This case study explores how Botswana Red Cross Society (BRCS) and 510 (the data and digital initiative of the Netherlands Red cross) worked together on aspects related to cash and voucher assistance and information management, in order to improve the use of data and digital tools while facing travel restrictions and social distancing.

25 October 2021

Cash & Voucher Assistance at Scale: Integrating Systems in St. Maarten & Aruba

Type:

Case study

Organization:

510

This case study gives an overview of digital systems used to scale up a cash distribution in St. Maarten and Aruba serving over 40.000 people. It highlights the systems used, the challenges faced, and the lessons learned as well as how to request support for cash information management projects.

2 July 2021

Manual: Digital Communication Systems – COVID-19 response

Type:

Guidance

Organization:

510, Netherlands Red Cross

Since March 2020, the 510 Data Team of the Netherlands Red Cross has provided solutions for digital communication of various National Societies. This manual shares information on various systems for digital communication, with details on programmes and platforms used.

9 June 2021

Digital identity: enabling dignified access to humanitarian services in migration

Type:

Research

Organization:

IFRC

This report sheds light on the needs and concerns of people on the move when it comes to identification, based on interviews with a range of migration experts and stakeholders. The report also makes specific recommendations for organisations contemplating the use of digital technology to identify the migrants they serve.

25 May 2021

Digital Identity: An Analysis for the Humanitarian Sector

Type:

Research

Organization:

IFRC, Oxford Centre for Technology and Development, DIGID

Through a series of expert interviews and case studies, this report delves into the humanitarian contexts where organisations are already piloting digital ID solutions, looking at technical, ethical, and sustainability considerations. It shows that digital ID has great potential for use in the humanitarian sector, with benefits to organisations and affected communities alike, while also outlining its limitations and the challenges to overcome.