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The limited and highly variable resource dynamics of underserved communities, each with their own unique needs and values, underscore the need to integrate a context-aware approach when designing for these settings. Context-aware computing has long been a fundamental aspect of ubiquitous and pervasive systems, yet its application in Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICT4D) remains limited. Existing context-aware approaches are predominantly designed for resource-rich environments and privileged communities, often failing to account for the unique constraints and dynamics of underserved populations. In this paper, we advocate for a paradigm shift in ICT system and service design to serve not only the privileged but also the underserved. Through the lens of two real-world case studies, we illustrate the contextual challenges faced by underserved communities and validate the design goals of our proposed framework by grounding them in real-world constraints, needs, and potential outcomes. Drawing upon existing literature and insights from the case studies, we first redefine context in ICT4D as a dynamic interplay of situated location, community needs, and limited resources, emphasizing a community-centered perspective. Building upon this definition, we conceptualize a more community-context-aware ICT4D design and propose enabling technologies for integrating community-in-the-loop methodologies, efficient resource allocation mechanisms, and context-aware service resiliency and adaptability strategies to enhance ICT services in resource-limited settings. By introducing a more context-aware approach to ICT4D, this paper aims to foster inclusivity, mitigate information inequity, and contribute to bridging the digital divide. Our work lays the foundation for future research on inclusive, resource-efficient, and community-driven context-aware ICT solutions. 

Manoomin, the Ojibwe word for Northern Wild Rice, is a culturally significant food source native to the Western Great Lakes region of North America. For generations, Manoomin stewardship has been central to Ojibwe culture and identity, harvested using traditional methods which respect and enrich its growth. Recent years have shown a decline in Manoomin’s natural occurrence due to land-use change and global warming. As part of a broader conservation effort, our team has collaborated with Tribal partners to build Makak, a low-cost microclimate sensor that monitors factors affecting wild rice to support Tribal sovereignty. This article details our co-design and pilot deployment in collaboration with four partner organizations. Through this work, we share our experiences, and lessons learned from the co-design process with Tribal partners. With this work, we aim to provide insights to other projects that promote Indigenous-centric participatory, collaborative design methods for conservation and environmental sustainability.