The United Nations relies on Swiss startups to tackle global challenges

Insurtech startup CelsiusPro developed an insurance product that utilizes satellite-based drought indices to trigger payouts, allowing for rapid response to drought events. In partnership with the United Nations (UN) World Food Programme (WFP) the startup aims to develop a parametric drought insurance solution for the Central Sahel region. WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity, for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change. The organization serves 152 million people in over 120 countries. Through this program, WFP aims to enhance food security and build resilience against climate-related risks in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, supported by CelsiusPro which will design the indices, structure the insurance product, and provide technical support throughout the process. 

The initiative represents a significant step towards proactive disaster risk management in the Sahel region. By leveraging parametric insurance, the WFP can access funds quickly when drought conditions are detected, enabling timely interventions to protect vulnerable populations. This collaboration is part of the African Risk Capacity's (ARC) Replica Programme, which enables humanitarian agencies to complement government efforts in disaster risk management. The insurance coverage spans the 2022 agricultural season, with a total sum insured of $9.5 million for the three countries combined.

Meanwhile, AIDONIC built a platform that transforms how humanitarian aid is delivered by combining blockchain, artificial intelligence, and payment aggregation within a secure, GDPR-compliant environment. Designed to empower aid organizations and reduce risk, AIDONIC enhances efficiency and scalability in response efforts. The company has joined forces with the WFP, selected from 1400 participants, to provide a comprehensive tool for collecting and managing data on local populations, offering photo de-duplication to prevent duplicate records, and allowing recipients to choose their preferred payment method for assistance. As a ready-made solution, AIDONIC can be easily transferred to government management if needed. Its blockchain-based transparency also enables WFP to share traceable, detailed information with donors and other stakeholders, building trust and accountability in the aid process. AIDONIC is currently undergoing a proof-of-concept trial with WFP Country Office in Peru. Launched in October 2024, this three-month project aims to demonstrate AIDONIC's impact and effectiveness in real-world conditions. 

“By providing a seamless, AI-powered, and blockchain-secured platform, we aim to simplify the complex processes from data collection to aid distribution, allowing organizations like WFP to serve vulnerable populations with the speed and accuracy they deserve. Together, we’re setting a new standard in humanitarian operations”, Severiyos Gabriel, Founder & CEO, AIDONIC.