Designing an Offline-First Digital Aid Distribution System for Post-Conflict Contexts: A Case Study of Tigray, Ethiopia

Mehari Mesfin Abay*
Department of Computer Science, Adigrat University, Adigrat, Ethiopia.
Periodicity:October - December'2025
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jit.14.4.22930

Abstract

Humanitarian aid delivery in post-conflict settings often suffers from systemic inefficiencies such as reliance on paper- based processes, fragmented data management, and degraded infrastructure. This study proposes a tailored offline- first Digital Aid Distribution System (DADS) for the Tigray region of Ethiopia, where widespread infrastructural damage complicates aid logistics. Using a mixed-methods approach—including stakeholder consultations, literature review, and Agile prototyping—the research defines core requirements for a system capable of functioning amid intermittent connectivity and limited resources. The proposed architecture employs a three-tier model featuring a mobile client for field operations, a centralized server for data management, and a synchronization mechanism for intermittent connectivity. A functional prototype demonstrates modules for beneficiary management, inventory tracking, distribution execution, and analytics. Simulations using the prototype suggest potential reductions in distribution cycle time (approximately 45%) and reporting time (around 96%), alongside improvements in transparency and beneficiary satisfaction. The study concludes that a context-aware digital system is not only feasible but essential for enhancing the efficiency, accountability, and dignity of aid delivery in Tigray. Recommendations include forming strategic partnerships, adopting phased piloting, and exploring integration with national digital identity systems and financial technologies.

Keywords

Humanitarian Technology, Digital Aid Distribution, Offline-First Design, ICT4D, Post-Conflict Recovery, Tigray, System Architecture, Mobile Application.

How to Cite this Article?

Abay, M. M. (2025). Designing an Offline-First Digital Aid Distribution System for Post-Conflict Contexts: A Case Study of Tigray, Ethiopia. i-manager’s Journal on Information Technology, 14(4), 1-8. https://doi.org/10.26634/jit.14.4.22930

References

[1]. Ahatsi, E., & Olanrewaju, O. A. (2025). Enhancing Humanitarian Supply Chain Resilience: Evaluating Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Analytics in Two Nations. Logistics, 9(2), 64.
[4]. Holloway, K., Al Masri, R., & Yahia, A. A. (2021). Digital Identity, Biometrics and Inclusionin Humanitarian Responses to Refugee Crises. HPG working paper, London.
[7]. Shanahan, M., & Bahia, K. (2023). The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2023. GSMA: London, UK.
[8]. United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. (2024). Ethiopia Humanitarian Needs Overview 2024 (Report on 2023 Needs).
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