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Poverty Eradication in Sierra Leone: Secondary City Development

Poverty Eradication in Sierra LeoneSince emerging from a civil war in 2002, Sierra Leone has experienced positive social and economic growth. The nation’s GDP has more than tripled, and maternal, infant and child mortality rates have largely decreased. However, poverty remains a threat to the country despite these improvements. Almost 60% of the population lives below the national poverty line, living on only $3 a day, and many lack access to food and safe water. Here is information about some innovations in poverty eradication in Sierra Leone.

Major Development Push Across Sierra Leone

However, extreme poverty is concentrated mainly in rural areas of the nation. Outside the capital city of Freetown, nearly 60% of the population lives below the poverty line, compared to just 20% within the capital’s limits. These stark figures reveal a clear imbalance in development and highlight the urgent need for change. In response, the government of Sierra Leone, backed by a £74 million investment from the World Bank, is turning its focus to the country’s often-overlooked secondary cities in an effort to work toward poverty eradication in Sierra Leone.  

 The cities of Bo, Bonthe, Kenema, Koidu, Makeni and Port Loko, as well as areas of Freetown, are experiencing major development projects in an ambitious effort to decentralize opportunity and reduce regional inequality. With the right infrastructure and investment, secondary cities could serve as drivers of development, raising living standards, expanding access to essential services, and creating new opportunities which could lift many Sierra Leoneans out of poverty.

Resilient Urban Sierra Leone Project

 In June 2021, the World Bank launched the Resilient Urban Sierra Leone Project (RUSLP), allocating a budget of $74 million in an attempt to enhance the lives of residents in underdeveloped areas of the nation. The plan presents a transformative vision for the western areas of the country. It lays the groundwork for sustainable urban development through the implementation of improved transportation networks, enhanced disaster preparedness, waste management systems and climate support.

Setting the Development Plan Into Motion

The project’s first major development briefings took place in Kissy, Freetown, on April 10th, 2025. Local government representatives, stakeholders and prospective bidders met to identify the necessary actions to improve the current urban landscape.

The Project Management Unit (PMU) of the RUSLP organized the session and a four-year developmental plan was laid out, with three high-risk communities being identified including Coconut Farm, Moyiba and Portee/Rokupa. Work is to immediately begin, as major environmental and flooding risks threaten these communities.

During the session, technical specifications, bidding procedures, evaluation criteria and social and environmental safeguarding requirements were outlined and discussed. The meeting provided a forum where those involved could ask questions and seek clarification on the project. Under this plan, it is hoped that all secondary cities will see new development, and work will begin at a later stage.

Bridging Cities and Citizens

According to project planners, the benefits of these developments extend beyond physical infrastructure. Roads will link people to jobs, markets and services, aiding poverty eradication in Sierra Leone. Water pumps and improved drainage systems will boost sanitation levels, improving public health immensely and lighting infrastructure across the cities will enhance the safety and accessibility of the population.

These improvements will especially benefit those who live beyond the boundaries of the capital, providing opportunities through connection due to new transportation infrastructure. The aim is to ensure all citizens have access to the same economic prospects and improved living conditions, and urban development is the first step in ensuring this.

– Niamh Trinder

Niamh is based in Leicester, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Poor Sanitary Infrastructure in Latin America: A Driver of Poverty

Poor Sanitary Infrastructure in Latin America: A Driver of Poverty Poorly managed sanitary infrastructure in Latin America is a key driver of poverty in the region. A lack of proper sewage and access to clean water exposes millions—particularly in rural and low-income urban areas—to easily preventable diseases. This disease burden reduces productivity, keeps students out of school and expands inequality. Women and girls endure the hardest impact, having a diminished chance of obtaining a proper education.

The Depth of Economic Disparity

In 2020, only 34% of the population in Latin America and the Caribbean had access to safely managed sanitary infrastructure, leaving more than 400 million people without such services, while about 75% had access to safely managed drinking water.

Shortages particularly affect informal settlements, where infrastructure cannot match population expansion. Cholera and typhoid cause long-term illnesses that undermine workforce productivity and increase poverty. World Bank econometric modeling illustrates that global WASH investment can yield $5–$7 in returns for every $1 invested through avoided health costs and improved productivity. Failing to invest in sanitation creates a cycle of disease and economic stagnation. A lack of proper sanitation is a major factor in global mortality and morbidity, particularly from diarrheal diseases, with ripple effects including reduced workforce productivity and higher health care costs for civilians.

Societal and Structural Barriers

Wider ripples in society cause sanitation issues, leading to millions of schooldays lost annually. Around 83 million people in the Americas lack improved sanitation and 15.6 million still defecate in the open. Peri-urban communities in Bolivia are not yet linked to sewerage systems, leading to pollution of the environment and health risks. People residing in indigenous communities of the Amazon region often employ rudimentary waste systems, which still pose repeated risks to health. In addition, women and children often do the task of collecting water, spending hours doing so in unhygienic conditions—hours they could spend on education or income generation.

Environmental and Governance Challenges

Hasty urbanization regularly surpasses sanitary infrastructure in Latin America, with the result that informal settlements in flood areas lack sewage and drainage. Climate-related floods in Honduras have overwhelmed these compromised systems, resulting in extensive water pollution and disease outbreaks. Underinvestment, bad regulation, institutional fragility and corruption are further hindrances, rooted in governance problems. In the absence of open, community-oriented planning, susceptible groups face a lack of access to basic services.

Paving the Path Forward

Interventions in the right direction are taking place throughout the region. Water For People employs its “Everyone Forever” strategy to support communities in sustaining water and sanitation infrastructure. Water.org subsidizes home WASH improvements through microloans to promote family-level resilience and dignity. The Inter‑American Development Bank (IDB) invests significantly in WASH systems in Latin America. In Bolivia, an IDB loan of $40 million is consolidating basic sanitation services in small municipalities, in addition to larger projects worth $100 million with Spain designed to expand water and sanitation to half a million peri‑urban dwellers.

These initiatives not only improve sanitary infrastructure in Latin America but also strengthen local institutional capacity and promote community engagement. UNICEF promotes school-based WASH programs aimed at equitable, gender-sensitive facilities and hygiene education, which improve attendance and dignity—especially for girls.

Emerging technologies like decentralized sanitation systems—composting toilets and neighborly treatment units—are gaining ground in hard-to-reach or slum areas. These avoid the logistics of sewerage centralization while offering low-cost, community-led sanitation.

Moving Toward a Healthier Future

Latin America’s sanitation crisis is inexorably connected with economic inequality, educational losses, environmental risk and gender disparities. A multifaceted response can potentially ease the burden on vulnerable populations through sustained WASH investment, effective governance, active community engagement and effective local governance.

– Anoushka Rai

Anoushka is based in Frisco, Texas, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Floating Solar Power in India

Floating Solar Power in IndiaFor the first time, it is predicted that energy investments in solar power will exceed oil and gas in 2025. Solar energy has become a vital way to create jobs, cut carbon emissions and accelerate economic progress. While many new solar installations are found on land, land availability in India is the lowest per capita among G20 countries. To strengthen its green energy capacity, India is turning to floating solar power.

India’s Floating Solar Revolution

India has the potential to generate 280 GW to 300 GW of electricity by installing floating solar panels and the work has already begun. The Ramagundum Floating Solar Project, which has been built over 500 acres and the Kayamkulam Floating Solar Power Plant, which can light up 26,000 households daily, were commissioned as early as 2022.

The Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project is projected to power more than 100,000 houses daily and offset carbon emissions by 1.2 million metric tons annually.

More Than Land Savings

Installing solar panels has other benefits besides land preservation, which is important to India. Floating panels operate more efficiently thanks to the cooling effect of water. Covering large areas of lakes, rivers and reservoirs with plastic solar panels also reduces water loss from evaporation, which has become more of a concern due to increased global temperatures.

Many large countries already use floating solar to generate clean, green energy and India is joining their ranks. Globally, floating solar could supply up to 50% of the world’s electricity.

In addition to advancing India’s clean energy goals, including a net-zero carbon target by 2070, the push for floating solar generates millions of new jobs annually. The renewable energy sector globally created 13.7 million jobs in 2022, rising to 16.2 million in 2023. India alone accounted for an estimated 1.02 million jobs in 2023. With the push towards floating solar panels in 2024, India’s renewable energy job numbers are expected to grow even further.

Floating Solar’s Promise and Roadblocks

India is leading the way in charging for green electricity. However, other countries like the Maldives, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have been trying to adopt clean energy, particularly floating solar panels.

The cost of installing solar on land in India is cheaper than on bodies of water and there are some unclear eligibility criteria for floating solar sites, as well as a limited manufacturing capacity for floating solar equipment. There are still struggles involved in implementing floating solar technology.

Final Remarks

India depends heavily on its land for agriculture, mining and other vital economic activities. Discovering India could use its abundant bodies of water for floating solar power, rather than sacrificing precious land, was a breakthrough. This approach is generating much-needed energy, cutting CO₂ emissions, reducing evaporation from critical water sources and creating valuable jobs nationwide.

– Gregory Walker

Gregory is based in York, PA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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New Agricultural Technology Helping Rwandans

Agricultural Technology Helping RwandansRwanda, a small, landlocked country in Eastern Africa, faces substantial socioeconomic challenges. According to the World Bank, 63.8% of its 14 million people live in poverty. Among the most pressing issues is food insecurity, which remains a critical concern across the country. Government data indicate that 20.6% of the population is food insecure, while the World Food Programme (WFP) reports that “nearly a third of children under 5 suffer from chronic malnutrition.”

Rwanda naturally has very fertile terrain due to its nutrient-rich volcanic soil. By many estimates, more than half of the country’s land is arable. However, despite this advantage, the country imports a significant amount of food. Foodstuffs account for more than 20% of all imports into Rwanda. To address food insecurity, Rwanda needs to better capitalize on its arable land and increase domestic food production. This makes innovations in agricultural technology, helping Rwandans increasingly vital for sustainable development.

Sustainable Agricultural Technology in Action

One way Rwandans are addressing food insecurity is through the adoption of a new sustainable agricultural technology called Juncao. Developed at Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University in China, Juncao technology involves using chopped grass to cultivate edible mushrooms that both humans and livestock can consume. This method is not only more affordable but also more environmentally friendly compared to traditional mushroom farming techniques that are wood-based instead.

Since its development, Juncao has spread to more than 100 countries, including Rwanda, where it is helping to improve food security and sustainable farming practices. This form of agricultural technology helping Rwandans has been widely supported by the Chinese government under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a vast infrastructure and development strategy aimed at enhancing global connectivity, trade and cooperation across Eurasia, Africa and Latin America.

Impact of Agricultural Technology

Juncao technology has proven highly beneficial in Rwanda, where it is affectionately known as “the happiness herb.” The new agricultural technology’s introduction has been a collaborative effort between local Rwandan government officials and experts from Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University. As of 2025, Juncao has reached more than 4,000 Rwandan farmers and has generated thousands more jobs across the agricultural value chain.

Juncao technology has also been introduced into schools as a way to improve the diets of Rwandan children. The mushrooms grown using this method are rich in nutrients comparable to those found in meat, yet are significantly more affordable. This makes it possible for children to receive essential nutrients even when families cannot afford animal-based protein, contributing to better health and development outcomes among school-aged children. By showcasing agricultural technology that supports Rwandans at both household and institutional levels, projects like Juncao are paving the way for a healthier and more food-secure population.

Looking Ahead

Introducing nutritious, affordable foods such as Juncao mushrooms into schools improves children’s health and encourages higher attendance. Reliable, healthy meals help students stay in school, focus in class and perform better academically. Higher educational attainment can open a path out of poverty, equipping the next generation with the skills and opportunities to build more resilient, self-sufficient communities.

– William Brentani

William is based in San Francisco, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Namibia’s Resilience: USAID Programs in Namibia

USAID Programs in NamibiaIn light of USAID cuts and freezes, Namibia is delivering the Reach Namibia program, Lifeline Namibia and early childhood development initiatives. These three USAID programs in Namibia raise awareness about the importance of protecting and empowering the disadvantaged groups within Namibia’s youth.

About HIV/AIDS in Namibia 

HIV/AIDS is particularly prevalent in Southern Africa, with Namibia having a high rate, as there are 210,000 cases, of whom 7,700 are children. Young girls and women, sex workers, men who have sex with men and trans Namibians remain the most vulnerable groups at risk of HIV.  Namibia has been at the forefront of controlling the epidemic, especially the massive progress in almost eliminating mother-to-child transmission rates. Through antiretroviral therapy, HIV positive pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, 96% of newborn children were born free of the disease, yet the stigma and infection rates remain a challenge and are being tackled by leading programs which focus on the vulnerable groups in Namibia’s youth. 

Reach Namibia

The first of the USAID programs in Namibia is Reach Namibia. Built on the foundations of the Dreams Hope program, Reach Namibia is an extension of the original program which aims to reduce the number of HIV/AIDS infections amongst young girls. It also empowers them with social protection, education, economic skills and reproductive services, in turn dismantling the stigma of adolescent children having HIV. 

While overlapping in its goals and initiatives with Dreams Hope, Reach Namibia is gender inclusive for all HIV vulnerable children. By providing extensive health and social services, the program creates short-term and long-term support, including access to medical attention and equipping them with life skills. This increases their chances of accessing education, the job market and health services.

Reach Namibia offers job training courses from plumbing and bricklaying to baking and banking. Not only does this directly increase young people’s future opportunities, but it also tackles the stigma against young victims of HIV. Instead of others defining them by their disease, they become defined as hard-working and qualified young people, who manage the disease. Additionally, the program offers internships and placements to graduates, which are structured around the realistic job market. Therefore, it has an extensive socio-economic reach as well as providing health care. Reach Namibia addresses and tackles different issues within society simultaneously while empowering the most at-risk children and developing a resilient and hard-working generation.

Lifeline/Childline Namibia 

Lifeline/Childline Namibia is a child-centered crisis helpline and child wellbeing organization in Namibia. USAID Health Evaluation and Applied Research Development supports the larger national strategy for parents and caregivers. Following the 2019 Violence Against Children and Youth Survey, which demonstrated that young children experienced a form of violence, 40% of Namibian girls and 45% of boys suffered from emotional, physical and sexual abuse in their childhood.

Zelanidia de Waal, a consultant at Childline, reinforces their goal of “empowering caregivers to break cycles of violence in their families and communities.” As such, Childline goes beyond the family structures, encouraging the communities of caregivers gives vulnerable children an outlet and support system outside of their homes. Between 2021 and 2023, Childline achieved a 51% response rate and showed continuous operational progression alongside increased referrals from government entities, reinforcing its collaborative efforts. For parents and caregivers, Childline provides information booklets which address parenting support, communications, gender norms, social media safety and child protection. Service providers distribute these resources and have an equal responsibility to supply caregivers with the necessary information and education. Ultimately, this will create a safer future for Namibia’s youth.

The Integrated Childhood Development Program

The Integrated Childhood Development Program (ICDP) prepares children for their transition from foundational learning to formal education. Namibia faces a significant challenge with many children failing to meet appropriate age learning levels. This is especially difficult for children with physical or educational disabilities or children who come from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds. ICDP specifically targets these vulnerable groups.

With an emphasis on early investment, the program highlights that “children aged 0-8 years are essential and highly effective.” The importance of addressing all stages of early development is highlighted, not just regarding education but by children’s emotional, social and speech development as well. UNICEF conducted the program’s research and worked with parents across Namibia to get direct access and insights, making the program relevant, accurate and trustworthy. From 2016-2022, UNICEF states that at least 50% of children entering Grade 1 went on to attend primary school. ICDP relies on a collaborative effort involving the government and communities, the private sector and parents. The comprehensive approach effectively ensures that early child development and education remain inclusive and empower vulnerable children across the country.

Looking Ahead

All three USAID programs in Namibia target different aspects of a child’s development from their early stages to their entry into higher education and the workforce. With a concentration on the vulnerable groups, Namibia and USAID’s efforts to reduce their exposure to HIV/AIDS, increase their access to education and develop their future prospects has been effective. In particular, the focus on parent-driven research and collaboration, addresses systemic issues. While creating relevant initiatives which are trustworthy, both vulnerable children, parents, caregivers and communities are able to access and act to protect and empower disadvantaged children across Namibia. 

– Jule Riemenschneider

Jule is Oxford, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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AfCFTA: Africa’s Path to Economic Growth and Unity

afcftaFrom Rwandan gold to Ethiopian coffee to Libyan oil, Africa is rich in diverse and abundant resources. But despite this wealth, it remains the world’s poorest continent, a status worsened by its limited participation in the global economy. Home to 18% of the world’s population, Africa accounts for just 2.8% of international trade, as of 2019. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) seeks to change this by creating the world’s largest free trade area, spurring development, and ultimately lifting millions out of poverty.

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty and Dependency

As of 2019, 478 million Africans were living in extreme poverty, with another 58 million just above the poverty line. Many reside in one of the 45 countries whose economies rely heavily on the export of raw materials. Wealthy nations buy these primary goods, use them to manufacture finished products, and then sell those products back to African countries at premium prices. This cycle leaves these countries poor and highly vulnerable to fluctuations in global demand.

Recognizing Africa’s historical disadvantages as well as its immense potential for economic growth, the African Union established AfCFTA in 2018. The agreement aims to unite the 55 member states and the approximately 1.3 billion people living within them into a single market for goods and services. Now, four years after its official launch in 2021, AfCFTA has made considerable progress toward achieving its founding goals of increasing intra-regional trade and making Africa more competitive in the global marketplace.

Progress, Innovation and Real Impact

By 2024, 49 of the 55 signatories had ratified the agreement, and 19 countries had enacted tariff reductions into national law. These actions mark a key step toward facilitating an economically integrated Africa, where intra-continental trade accounts for much more than the current low rate of 14.9%. According to World Bank estimates, full implementation of AfCFTA could increase the total economic output of African countries by $450 billion and add $76 billion to the global income by 2035.

Beyond trade policy, AfCFTA includes initiatives which aim to support its broader economic and social objectives. The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), launched in 2022, allows for instant and secure payments between African countries, reducing costs and increasing trade efficiency. Meanwhile, the Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade promotes networking, mentorship, and market training, making AfCFTA the first trade agreement to legally protect the interests of these two marginalized groups.

Making a Difference

Although the implementation of AfCFTA has been gradual due to the complexities of coordinating trade policies among 55 distinct states, it has already begun to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Africans. Briggette Harrington, owner of Igire Coffee, was the first to receive an AfCFTA certificate of origin for Rwanda. Benefiting from the agreement’s trade advantages, Harrington increased her exports from 150 bags to 400 bags of coffee. She is just one example of how a unified African market can benefit small businesses across the continent.

The Road to Success

Ultimately, AfCFTA’s path forward is promising but uncertain. Success will require member states to achieve regulatory harmonization, balance their various needs, and ensure that the benefits of trade are equitably distributed. What is unquestionable, however, is what Africa stands to gain. If fully realized, AfCFTA could unlock Africa’s vast economic potential, pulling 30 million people out of extreme poverty, according to the World Bank.

– Caroline Clark

Caroline is based inNeedham, MA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Ability and Barriers: Disability and Poverty in Uruguay

Disability and Poverty in Uruguay In Uruguay, people with disabilities face social and economic barriers that limit their opportunities and quality of life. Despite the country’s relatively strong social safety net, poverty, unemployment and exclusion disproportionately affect individuals with disabilities. The intersection of disability and poverty in Uruguay reveals structural challenges, policy gaps and limited access to opportunities. A deeper understanding of these overlapping issues in Uruguay can help identify both the barriers and possibilities for advancing inclusion and equity.

Correlation Between Disability and Poverty in Uruguay

As of 2023, only 6.7% of Uruguay’s population lives below the international poverty line of $6.85 per person per day (2017 PPP), making it one of the countries with the lowest poverty rate in Latin America– a level that has remained relatively stable since 2014.

Uruguay’s economy experienced a 3.1% growth in 2024, fueled by strong export performance and increased private consumption, alongside strengthening the labor market and controlling inflation within the Central Bank of Uruguay’s target range. While the country enjoys its overall economic and social stability, persistent structural challenges limit progress in addressing key development divides.

Notably, poverty remains disproportionately high among children, adolescents, individuals with disabilities and individuals of the Afro-descendant background. Approximately 16% of Uruguay’s population reports living with some form of disability, totaling to 542,080 people. Along with the greater risk of poverty, these groups face heightened vulnerability in forms of discrimination and broader socioeconomic challenges.  

On the other hand, Uruguay stands out as one of the first countries in the Americas to incorporate personal assistance for individuals with disabilities into its national care system.

Personal Assistance

In 2024, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) committed to a $10 million loan and an additional $2.5 million in non-reimbursable funds to make quality care services for those with disabilities or dependency, more easily accessible. However, the Personal Assistant Program remains limited in scope and does not yet reach all those who need support to live independently.

Significant gaps persist in the availability and accessibility of services. Assistance is restricted by age, provided only to individuals aged 29 and under or 80 and over, all while being limited to a set number of hours. As a result, many people with disabilities cannot access the support necessary for daily living.

Participants in Uruguay’s Personal Assistant Program receive government aid to hire a personal assistant for no more than 80 hours per month. The amount is determined based on the severity of the individual’s disability, their level of dependency and the income of the user and immediate family.

Inadequacies

Human Rights Watch found that the 80-hour monthly limit is inadequate to meet the demands of essential daily activities. For example, if an individual was employed at a job that started at 9:00 am, but their personal assistant cannot arrive to help them prepare, they may be unable to maintain employment– an everyday consequence of the systemic challenges linking disability and poverty in Uruguay.

While the government covers the wages and social benefits for personal assistants, users are responsible for severance payments if they terminate the service after three months of use which can pose a financial burden.

Individuals who rely on personal assistants have limited options for addressing labor disputes, as labor courts are the sole mechanism for resolving such conflicts. Despite often facing financial hardship, individuals must cover their own legal expenses, while the government provides legal representation for the personal assistants. This imbalance not only places an added strain on those in need of care but also increases the potential for service issues and mistreatment without proper accountability.

Multidimensional Poverty Index in Uruguay

Nevertheless, Uruguay’s efforts to gain more knowledge about poverty and its effects does not go unnoticed. The Uruguay Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) provides a comprehensive understanding of poverty within the country. This tool distinguishes the specific regions and demographic groups most impacted by poverty, while also analyzing how multiple variables contribute to people’s overall experience of poverty. The MPI’s primary purpose is to offer strategic insights that ensure inclusive progress, aiming to reduce poverty and inequality without leaving anyone behind.

According to the multidimensional poverty headcount – which considers deprivations across education, employment, health and living standards – disability and poverty in Uruguay are closely tied. Poverty rates vary significantly based on the levels of functional difficulty. Among people with severe functional difficulties, 41% experience multidimensional poverty. This rate drops to 25% for those with moderate difficulties and just 8% for individuals without any functional limitations.

It is important to note that the MPI does not replace the traditional measurement of monetary poverty; instead, it supports them by enhancing the precision of public policies designed to combat poverty. By measuring multidimensional poverty the government can better shape strategies, policies and programs that address the diverse facets of poverty and improve support for the groups most in need.

Alongside Uruguay’s government initiatives, there are dynamic networks of organizations passionately working to combat poverty and empower people with disabilities in Uruguay. Here are some organizations addressing disability and poverty in Uruguay.

Disability Support International

The organization started in 2016, focuses on development by partnering with communities to build resilience and promote inclusion. It works to strengthen local capacity, especially for people with disabilities, aiming to create more equitable and sustainable outcomes in vulnerable areas. It now works all over the world including Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, Oceania and the Americas. Through Disability Support International (DSI), Asociación Down Del Uruguay is a program that works with children and adults with down syndrome. It provides family support, vocational training, recreation and workplace opportunities in addition to promoting inclusion of people with down syndrome, advocacy and inclusive education.

Through the Labor Inclusion Program by Asociación Down Del Uruguay, about 30 people with down syndrome have permanent employment. Many people believe that individuals with Down syndrome are incapable of working or living independently. The Asociación Down Del Uruguay believes that “working and receiving fair compensation is a right and a necessity for all people, with or without disabilities.” Workforce inclusion empowers individuals with down syndrome by fostering confidence and creating spaces where their unique strengths and contributions are recognized and valued.

UNICEF

Since 1956, UNICEF has provided humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide. It works to support Uruguay in making sure all children and adolescents can access quality education. A big part of its focus is on students with disabilities and teenagers in general,  helping them stay in school, do better academically and eventually graduate so they can fully participate in society and enter the workforce.

UNICEF supported the National Public Administration to expand the Return to Education Programme. This initiative partners with local communities to offer tailored support to adolescents who are at high risk of leaving school early. The success led to its integration into Uruguay’s national policy on “education trajectories,” co-funded by the government and UNICEF. As part of its efforts, it trained 500 teachers in literacy instruction, developed a Socio-Educational Support Guide and prepared 150 mentors to assist students as they navigate their educational paths.

Looking Ahead

Organizations such as the Personal Assistant Program, Asociación Down Del Uruguay and Return to Education Programme are helping to drive meaningful change by promoting inclusion, independence and equal opportunity for people with disabilities in poverty. Through the work of the Uruguayan government and organizations like these, they challenge the social and economic barriers that often trap individuals in cycles of poverty and exclusion. These initiatives demonstrate that with targeted support, inclusive policies, and community engagement, it is possible to improve the quality of life and expand opportunities for people with disabilities living in poverty in Uruguay.

– Gabriella Luneau

Gabriella is based in Raleigh, NC, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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STEMINC Transforming STEM Education in Ghana

STEM Education in GhanaScience and technology shape everything from communication to combating disease and building resilient economies. Yet, in many parts of Ghana, access to quality Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education remains deeply unequal. Despite the government’s push to prioritize STEM through policies like the Education Strategic Plan (2018–2030) and the rollout of STEM-designated senior high schools, interest remains low. In 2023, only 9.4% of candidates from public basic schools in the Prestea Huni‑Valley Municipality opted for STEM-related programs in the BECE exam. These figures reveal a gap between policy and participation. 

The Significance of STEM

Around the globe, STEM fields are engines of innovation, economic growth and job creation. For developing countries like Ghana, investing in STEM is not just about keeping up with the digital age, it’s about tackling youth unemployment, improving health care, strengthening infrastructure and reducing poverty. According to the World Bank, enhancing STEM skills across Africa can power economic growth and innovation in sectors like green energy, climate resilience, cybersecurity and health systems.

The Ghanaian government has recognized this through recent policy reforms, including the construction of STEM-focused senior high schools and curriculum upgrades that integrate coding and robotics. However, access to quality STEM education is still a privilege, not a guarantee, especially for students in underserved and rural areas. According to Africa Education Watch, only 2% of deprived basic schools in Ghana have functioning ICT labs, compared to just 8% in better-endowed schools, severely limiting students’ ability to engage with STEM subjects.

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) 2023 Global Education Monitoring Report, only about 47% of primary schools, 50% of lower-secondary schools and 65% of upper-secondary schools in Sub‑Saharan Africa have internet access. This highlights significant gaps in basic Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure in the region. Even in urban areas, disparities persist along gender and socio-economic lines, with girls and low-income students often left behind.

The Role of STEMINC: Equity Through Innovation

Founded to address ongoing challenges, STEM Inclusion Ghana (STEMINC) is a nonprofit on a mission: to democratize STEM education for all Ghanaian students regardless of background, gender, or location. Through a growing number of projects, STEMINC offers hands-on training in coding, robotics and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. It provides teacher support and digital resources to build classroom capacity, hosts community workshops to demystify STEM and inspire student curiosity and runs gender-inclusive programs to ensure girls have equal opportunities to explore and succeed in STEM fields.

The organization’s model brings STEM to the student, rather than the student to STEM. Whether it’s hosting robotics competitions in underserved districts or providing offline coding kits for schools with no internet, STEMINC meets learners where they are. STEMINC staff emphasize that STEM initiatives can be life-changing for students who previously had no exposure to computing, many go on to build websites or code robots, illustrating real transformation

The Challenge Beneath the Progress

Despite the momentum so far, systemic barriers remain. According to the 2024 Africa Education Watch Policy Brief, just 13% of public junior high schools in Ghana have functional ICT facilities and many teachers still lack formal training in digital tools. Electricity access in schools remains below 50% in a deprived district. For students, a lack of role models, peer encouragement or even access to basic tools like calculators or computer labs can discourage continued STEM participation, especially for girls. Cultural expectations and economic pressures add another layer, making early dropout rates and career redirection common among even promising young learners.

Looking Ahead

“The African continent holds a huge potential to transform its education sector and labour market through science, technology and innovation. We need to unlock the potential of STEM education across Africa. And African girls represent the greatest untapped population to become the next generation of innovators,” said Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education.

According to UNESCO’s 2023 Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report on Technology in Education, equitable access to technology in schools is essential to progress toward SDG 4 and broader educational outcomes. Speaking at the Ghana Philanthropy Conference in 2023, the Country Director of the Global Volunteers Corps (GVC), Ms. Ackah, emphasized the need for grassroots efforts. “We believe that every action, no matter how small, can have a ripple effect, touching the lives of individuals and communities far beyond our immediate reach. When we volunteer, we become agents of change,” Ackah said.

– Dela Michel

Dela is based in Rockville, MD USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Updates on SDG 1 in Ethiopia: Progress Toward Ending Poverty

SDG 1 in EthiopiaDespite ongoing instability in the Tigray region, Ethiopia is steadily advancing in its fight against extreme poverty, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1), which aims to eradicate poverty in all its forms by 2030. This goal includes ensuring equal access to resources, basic services and economic opportunities for all. As one of Africa’s most populous countries, Ethiopia’s progress on SDG 1 is critical for the continent’s development.

Updates on SDG 1 in Ethiopia

The most recent data indicates that Ethiopia is on track in reducing extreme poverty. As of 2024, the proportion of people living on less than $2.15 per day has dropped to 14.01%, according to worldpoverty.io. A decade ago, this figure was much higher. The number of people living under the $3.65 threshold has also decreased significantly—from 72.79% in 2014 to 37.77% in 2024. These numbers reflect consistent efforts to improve access to basic services, employment and rural development. 

Government programs like the Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP) have played a key role. Established in 2005, the PSNP provides food or cash in exchange for public work to millions of food-insecure households, helping them avoid selling assets during times of crisis.

Public Health and SDG 1

Improved health care directly supports SDG 1 by reducing the financial burden of illness. Ethiopia has made significant strides in maternal health and HIV prevention. For example, new adult HIV infections fell to just 0.08 per 1,000 people in 2022, thanks to expanded education, free testing services and access to antiretroviral therapy. Maternal health has improved due to wider coverage of prenatal services and an increase in skilled birth attendants.

Gender Equality and Poverty Reduction

Gender inequality remains a root cause of poverty, including in the labor force. But there are positive updates on SDG 1 in Ethiopia when it comes to empowering women. In 2023, women occupied 41.3% of parliamentary seats—up from just 2% in 2000. The female-to-male labor force participation rate rose to 87.05%, showing progress toward economic equality.

Still, women – especially in rural areas –  face higher unemployment, limited access to land and greater exposure to unpaid labor. Government initiatives and NGO-led training programs have been essential in boosting financial literacy and entrepreneurship among women. For instance, the Adult and Non-Formal Education Association in Ethiopia (ANFEAE) launched the “Literacy Plus” program in 2008, training more than 6,200 rural women in basic business and income-generating skills.

Responsible Waste Management and Urban Poverty

Ethiopia has also made progress in responsible consumption and production, an important component in fighting urban poverty. Ethiopia now meets its targets for managing municipal, plastic and electronic waste.

In Addis Ababa, TechnoServe’s LIWAY initiative collaborated with the city cleaning agency to launch more than 580 micro-enterprises run by women and youth. These small businesses collected more than 41,800 tonnes of paper and plastic in the year 2023 alone, generating nearly $10 million in revenue while providing regular income opportunities to vulnerable groups. In a related project started earlier, 125 micro-enterprises involving 1,250 members were established; 70% remained active after a year, and half saw a rise in income. By 2021, 117 micro‑enterprises had collected 7,000 tonnes of paper and generated $400,000 in sales, creating employment for more than 2,200 women and young people.

Climate Vulnerability and Poverty

Changing weather remains a challenge that exacerbates poverty. In Ethiopia, erratic rainfall and prolonged droughts damage crops, displace rural families and reduce food security. While the country is making progress in reducing its own carbon emissions, vulnerability to climate-related shocks still poses a serious threat to SDG 1.

Integrating climate resilience into poverty alleviation programs is therefore essential. Projects like the Climate Investment Funds’ $500 million resilience initiative and the expansion of Ethiopia’s early warning systems offer promising solutions. Additionally, Ethiopia’s Drought Resilience and Sustainable Livelihoods Program, which launched in 2013, has helped rehabilitate degraded land, improve water access, and enhance food security for pastoralist communities in drought-prone areas. Lately, a new financial support for “lowlands livelihood resilience,” continues to scale the drought resilience efforts for about 3 million pastoralists and agro-pastoralists.

Looking Ahead

Updates on SDG 1 in Ethiopia reveal steady progress, especially in reducing poverty, improving gender equality and expanding access to health services. Continued investment in climate resilience, sustainable waste systems and inclusive policies will be key to ensuring that no one is left behind.

– Alexandra Diallo-Scholler

Alexandra is based in Los Angeles, California and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Kodak Black’s Philanthropy Prints a Brighter Future

Kodak Black's philanthropyKodak Black, an American rapper, might be best known for his rapping career, but when the mic is turned off, he’s on a mission to uplift those who come from the same struggles he did. Black’s impact reaches far beyond the music charts, from the streets of Pompano Beach where he was raised to the villages of Haiti where his roots run deep. Kodak Black’s philanthropy of donations and initiatives are leaving a legacy of giving far greater than his fame could.

From Struggle to Spotlight

Born and raised in the Florida Pompano Beach projects, Kodak Black faced poverty, crime and violence at an early age. Growing up, Black’s life was marked by instability and frequent run-ins with the law. However, Black turned to music to escape, express himself and earn an income. His first hit, “No Flockin,” dropped in 2014 and got his foot in the industry door, launching a career that would take him from local to global.

As the spotlight shone bright on him, he never lost sight of where he came from. The harsh realities of his upbringing shaped him and instilled a yearning to give back. Indeed, for Black, philanthropy isn’t a headline; it is a mission to help those in a place he once occupied.

Hydrating Haitians

Black’s parents are Haitian immigrants and his heritage has influenced his desire to help this community. Indeed, the struggles of the Haitian people are similar to those Black faced as a child. This connection influences him to help and his platform enables him.

In 2022, Black spent $50,000 to help hydrate Haiti, providing 35,000 bottles of clean water. Each bottle was labeled “last.” According to Black’s lawyer, Bradford Cohen, the label symbolized Kodak’s intention: “Kodak wants this to be the last time anyone in Haiti goes without water.”

The Mission Keeps Growing

Black’s impact doesn’t stop there, as he supports orphanages and food banks in Haiti. He even joined other artists for a benefit concert after the devastating earthquake that hit the country in 2021. His actions show he’s thinking globally, focused on helping people in places where poverty is extreme and resources are limited.

Black’s philanthropy stands out because of how direct and heartfelt it is. He doesn’t rely on big organizations or flashy campaigns. He sees a need and he steps in. This kind of hands-on giving shows that he’s not doing it for attention but because he truly cares.

A Legacy of Hope

Kodak Black’s philanthropy is building a legacy that goes far beyond music. Indeed, he’s showing that even someone who has faced pain and controversy can rise and become a force for good. His efforts in Haiti are just the beginning of what could become a powerful movement to fight poverty in struggling countries worldwide.

For Black, giving back isn’t just a project; it’s a way for him to help others the way he once needed to be helped. His impact on the people of Haiti shows his character and vow not to forget where he came from. Furthermore, Black’s help is more than just water or supplies. His efforts show that someone sees them, cares about them and is willing to fight for a better future.

– Marissa Schoth

Marissa is based in Benton, LA, USA and focuses on Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons