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USAID Programs in Cameroon

USAID Programs in CameroonCameroon evolved into one of Africa’s most prosperous nations following its triumphant independence in 1960; however, significant GDP reductions plunged the country into a 10-year recession. While economic recovery progressed in the early 2000s, Cameroon’s poverty reduction rates stagnated, where in 2022, a significant portion of the population lived on just $2.15 per day. The United States, a global leader in humanitarian assistance, responds to such inequity with relief initiatives from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Today, USAID programs in Cameroon actively improve health, maintain security and governance and ensure economic development for more than 27 million Cameroonians. 

Health Programs

Health crises remain the greatest threat to Cameroon, where communicable diseases like malaria, tuberculosis and HIV dominate the West African region’s total morbidity and death rates.

This regressive health trend eventually necessitated USAID programs in Cameroon that lowered health care costs, secured basic access and increased productivity and wages. 

The Global Health Supply Chain Program – Procurement and Supply Management (GHSC-PSM) is a USAID-sponsored initiative heightening the availability and accessibility of essential medicines and commodities by reinforcing the pharmaceutical supply network. GHSC-PSM subsidiaries like the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) deliver more than 8 million malaria preventive treatments annually. Additionally, the Last Mile Delivery (LMD) program of 2022 guaranteed regular deliveries of HIV commodities by developing optimized routes to “all 320 facilities across all 10 Cameroon regions.” From 2020 to 2021, the LMD program increased the health facility order submission rate by 76%.

Furthermore, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) supports Cameroon’s efforts toward universal health coverage (UHC), ensuring unimpeded access to essential health services, especially for those living with HIV. PEPFAR initiatives and the UHC program help alleviate up to 70% of health care costs for Cameroonians, who statistically cannot afford direct payments. Among several key accomplishments, the UHC program, as of 2024, insures more than 2.5 million individuals in Cameroon.

Security and Governance Programs

Security is a primary concern for USAID and Cameroon, as the ongoing Anglophone-Francophone disputes continue dividing the Northwest and Southwest regions. Since 2016, the conflict has disproportionately affected women and children, resulting in at least 6,500 deaths. Violence is often rooted in extreme poverty in these rural areas, where disagreements erupt between Cameroon security forces and armed separatists jockeying over access to scarce government resources. As both sides vie for political power, students, teachers and humanitarian workers face invasions, human rights violations and restricted access to educational and health care services. The Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect revealed that 1.8 million Cameroonians in 2025—both Francophone and Anglophone—lack humanitarian assistance, with approximately 583,000 internally displaced individuals.

Ultimately, USAID programs in Cameroon work to empower communities by circumventing violent, poverty-inducing extremism. The Cameroon Peace Promotion Project is a USAID-funded initiative dedicated to strengthening communities by working with radio stations to deter extremist rhetoric and encourage community engagement and peace throughout Cameroon. The CPP Project strengthens Cameroon’s governance over regional terrorist organizations, assists maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, contributes to regional stability and promotes respect for education, democratization and Cameroonian human rights. In 2021 alone, more than 10 radio stations reached approximately 2.5 million listeners.

Economic Development Programs

Initially estimated at a 4% increase, 2023 revealed decelerated GDP in Cameroon, falling to 3.3% from 3.6% due to weak economic infrastructure, volatile inflation and persistent internal conflicts delaying the region’s financially gainful sectors. Prioritizing potential profitability, USAID programs in Cameroon restructure the country’s financial orientation to increase revenue, ensure economic safety and promote economic expansion: 

  • Feed the Future (FTF): Feed the Future is a USAID-led initiative prioritizing agricultural and research development for increased productivity, agriculture optimization and enhanced land tenure and market accessibility. In Cameroon, agricultural transformation helps fiscally support more than two-thirds of the entire population.
  • Prosper Africa: Prosper Africa is a U.S.-led initiative facilitating trade and investment between U.S. businesses and African countries, focusing on digital, agribusiness and renewable energy sectors. Prosper Africa supports projects in Cameroon that offer higher wages, new jobs and clean energy while preserving business relationships with the U.S. worth $22 billion.
  • Power Africa Off-Grid Program (PAOP): This program is a USAID electrification expansion program providing technical assistance and targeted grant funding to private sector power generating companies. Despite having plentiful resources, Cameroon faces frequent electricity outages due to dated infrastructure. However, with PAOP, Cameroon could observe significant energy sector advancements while presenting opportunities for U.S. companies to capitalize on the prevalent hydropower in the region, which remains untapped at just 4%.

Concluding Thoughts

Founded in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, USAID catapulted American influence and foreign policy globally. However, on March 10, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio cut 83% of funding for USAID, effectively slashing humanitarian assistance to 160 countries and regions. Without USAID programs in Cameroon, this could weaken governance, increase conflict geography and social inequities and compromise economic and health security. While known as “Africa in miniature,” Cameroon could largely depend on U.S. competitors for foreign aid, should the Trump administration continue dismantling USAID — a vital bridge to prosperity for many impoverished nations.

– Marcus Villagomez

Marcus is based in Dallas, TX, USA and focuses on Business and Good News The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Cholera Outbreak in Sudan: How the Country is Fighting Back

sudan choleraAs an ongoing war continued to tear apart Sudan, millions went into extreme poverty and poor living conditions, which caused an outbreak of cholera starting in late 2024. The northeastern African country has struggled with cholera outbreaks for years. Once the civil war broke out in early 2023, it brought even more immense hardship to the country and another epidemic. Millions of civilians—more than half the country’s population—had to relocate to various camps, including one in the country’s White Nile State. It is here that poor conditions and limited access to clean drinking water have led to a cholera outbreak, with 50,000 cases recorded in January and more than 1,300 deaths.

Sudan’s History with Cholera

Throughout its history, Sudan has faced problems with cholera outbreaks, time and time again. The disease, which is transmitted through contaminated food and water sources, has left many underdeveloped communities vulnerable to epidemics. During these outbreaks, many have had concerns and criticized the government’s lack of acknowledgement and response to the epidemics. The government never formally acknowledged the 2017 epidemic, even though the National Epidemiological Corporation recorded over 23,000 cases and more than 800 deaths linked to the disease. In 2019, the Sudanese government, with assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO), made a greater effort to curb another outbreak, mobilizing treatment centers, cholera kits and enhancing disease surveillance.

The Ongoing Conflict’s Effect on the Cholera Outbreak

Millions of people had to forcefully leave their homes and move into overcrowded camps due to the country’s current civil war. As the fighting continues to affect more areas, an increasing number of health facilities stop operating. This widespread lack of health care is ultimately worsening the cholera outbreak in Sudan.

Communities fleeing from the war and attacks on hospitals and health care facilities are only exacerbating the health care crisis, as people have to rely on aid groups, which have limited resources.

The current outbreak takes place in the White Nile State, which struggled with attacks early in February. These attacks damaged a power plant in the area, leaving many without power and cutting off access to water pumps. Without access to clean drinking water, cases of Cholera in the area surged.

Looking Forward

Treating the cholera outbreak in Sudan and the broader health care crisis is extremely challenging, as access to essential resources such as clean water, food, vaccines, and sanitation facilities is limited. However, Sudan’s Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH), along with organizations such as the WHO and UNICEF, has launched several oral vaccination campaigns, accompanied by a ban on collecting water from local rivers.

The country is heavily reliant on outside help to establish facilities to fight the outbreak and help affected people. UNICEF-backed clinics help distribute rehydration solutions to people showing symptoms of cholera. In high-risk regions, UNICEF has also established areas for chlorinating water, which will help rid the cholera-causing bacteria from people’s drinking water. The power to stop this outbreak also lies within the communities and organizations working to educate people on how to prevent and treat cholera symptoms.

– Collier Simpson

Collier is based in Savannah, GA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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10 Facts on Hunger in Sao Tome and Principe

Hunger in Sao Tome and PrincipeUninhabited until the late 15th century, the isolated, volcanic, central African Sao Tome and Principe islands were first colonized by Portugal, which established a sugar-based economy supported by African slave labor.  The country, which became independent in 1975, is a lower middle-income, semi-presidential republic. Here are 10 facts on hunger in Sao Tome and Principe.

10 Facts on Hunger in Sao Tome and Principe

  1. Only 372 square miles in size, the country comprises two main islands and four islets, with 90% of the land government-owned. Half of the land is agricultural, although only 9% is arable. The country’s population of less than a quarter of a million is 76% urbanized. 
  2. The latest poverty statistics for Sao Tome and Principe, based on 2017 data, report 55.5% of the population below the national poverty line and 15.7% below the international line designation for extreme poverty. 
  3. Sao Tome and Principe are “on course” towards the global nutrition targets on childhood stunting and wasting, as well as exclusive breastfeeding, and have made some progress on low birth weight. However, the 2022 Global Nutrition Report notes no progress or worsening in the prevalence of anemia among women of reproductive age, with over 44% are still afflicted. The country is “off course” with regard to the remaining eight Global Nutrition indicators. 
  4. Challenges faced by the country include remoteness, and lack of economic diversification, with significant dependence on subsistence farming, fisheries and small-scale commerce. There is substantial reliance on external financing, with little private sector development, no access to credit and markets and insufficient job opportunities. All of this is further complicated by energy shortages, high fuel import costs, climate vulnerabilities (e.g., 2021 floods) and external events such as the war in Ukraine.
  5. Balanced against these challenges, the World Bank assesses Sao Tome and Principe’s “significant untapped natural wealth” as a basis for “nature-based tourism.” This is supported by an expectation of growth in agricultural exports and tourism, along with infrastructure development and energy reform 
  6. Sao Tome and Principe legislated approval of the National School Feeding and Health Programme (PNASE) in 2023, which provides a framework for school feeding/food security, food safety and quality/nutrition 
  7. IFAD, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, has been active in Sao Tome and Principe since the 1980s, financing agricultural sector investment projects to facilitate rural community development. Their projects have paid special attention to the inclusion of women and youth in development interventions, and to increase market access with the goal of food and nutrition security, as well as income. IFAD in 2020 financed COMPRAN (Commercialization, Agricultural Productivity and Nutrition Project), which targeted small-scale farmers, with attention to women and youth, and individuals with disabilities or affected by malnutrition.
  8. In 2023, the World Food Programme reported that while small-scale farming increases food availability, still over half of the country’s food is imported. WFP’s 2024-2028 strategy for the country, therefore, is to target United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 1, access to food, especially to ensure that food and other essential needs can be met before, during and after emergencies and disasters. This strategy, which includes funding from Portugal, the U.N. and the private sector, is particularly aimed at school feeding programs that are nutrition-sensitive, gender-sensitive, climate-resilient, green and sustainable. Priority Area I of the African Development Bank Group’s strategy for 2024-2029 engagement in Sao Tome and Principe is to support the development of agricultural and blue economy (ocean resources) value chains. This is in line with Sao Tome and Principe’s Agenda 2030 strategy to reduce malnourishment and includes food security as an area of special emphasis for the bank’s funding. 
  9. In December 2024, Sao Tome and Principe graduated from its least developed country status. Nevertheless, it continues to need and receive external support. This includes IFAD’s nutrition education and school and community food improvement. IFAD projects have included the creation of cooperatives, infrastructure to open up production areas, revitalization of several value chains for organic niche markets and support for the production of various crops. A Rural Poor Stimulus Facility grant of $444,295 reached 4,236 vulnerable households (double its target) and impacted almost 17,000 people (more than double expected).
  10. In December 2024, Sao Tome and Principe graduated from its least developed country status. Nevertheless, it continues to need and receive external support. This includes IFAD’s nutrition education and school and community food improvement. IFAD projects have included the creation of cooperatives, infrastructure to open up production areas, revitalization of several value chains for organic niche markets and support for the production of various crops. A Rural Poor Stimulus Facility grant of $444,295 reached 4,236 vulnerable households (double its target) and impacted almost 17,000 people (more than double expected).

Despite its small size Sao Tome and Principe faces challenges that mirror those of many developing nations. However, through resilience, strategic initiatives and support from the international community, continual progress is being made toward sustainable development, economic stability and reducing hunger in Sao Tome and Principe. Despite its small size, both geographically and in population, the challenges Sao Tome and Principe have experienced are not unique. 

– Staff reports
Photo: Flickr

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Programs Helping to Reduce Child Poverty in Guatemala

Programs Helping the Impoverished Children of Guatemala Guatemala faces extreme educational difficulties, which heavily impact the future of its youth and contribute to ongoing poverty issues. The problem stems from a lack of access to resources such as books and computers, while many teachers lack proper training. Rural and indigenous communities face the most significant challenges. Only four out of every 10 children in Guatemala advance to middle school and only two of those 10 graduate from high school. This lack of quality education makes it difficult for children to escape poverty in Guatemala. Without education or relevant skills, they struggle to secure higher-paying jobs. However, several programs aim to address this issue by providing materials and improving education, offering a better future for these affected communities.

The Rotary Pathways Guatemala Literacy Project

The Rotary Pathways Guatemala Literacy Project (GLP), established in 1997, has worked to reach underprivileged communities and students through sustainable programs. This project has brought education to 295,000 children and emphasizes four complementary programs: Spark, Textbooks, Technology and Rise Youth Development. Furthermore, these programs help impoverished children in Guatemala by promoting literacy and developing technological skills.

  • Spark Program. The Spark Program aims to train teachers specifically in children’s literature and reading-focused lessons to help raise the literacy rates, which at the moment are almost 85% for most of Guatemala but reaching only about 33% for rural and indigenous communities. Through the Spark Program, 49% of first-graders scored better than the national average.
  • Textbook Program. The Textbook Program provides students with textbooks in various subjects and trains teachers to incorporate these materials into their lessons effectively. In rural Guatemala, 90% of schools lack access to textbooks. The Textbook Program helps lower this percentage by providing affordable textbooks for students and improving access to quality educational materials.
  • Technology Program. The Technology Program provides students access to computers, which enhances their technological literacy. Furthermore, this approach helps teach them necessary tech skills that are beneficial for future jobs. In Guatemala, 60% of entry-level jobs require tech skills. The program closes the digital divide and reduces unemployment by equipping students with the tools necessary to succeed.
  • Rise Youth Development Program. The Rise Youth Development Program provides scholarships to students in need, especially Mayan children in rural communities. The program alleviates economic stress on families by covering school costs, allowing students to focus on their education. It also offers peer mentoring, home visits to engage families and academic and social support. Since its inception, the Rise Youth Development Program has increased high school graduation rates for impoverished children from 10% to 80%.

The GLP’s Impact on Children’s Lives

The GLP has extended hope through the power of education and has continuously shown the benefits of technological literacy through the success of its students. As of 2025, the project plans to help another 6,200 children between January and October. Through its various programs, the GLP has helped hundreds of thousands of children obtain quality education and improve their chances of securing better jobs, ultimately breaking the cycle of poverty.

Looking Ahead

The Guatemala Literacy Project has made significant progress in addressing educational inequalities and poverty in Guatemala. By enhancing literacy, expanding access to learning materials, bridging the digital divide and supporting vulnerable students through scholarships, these programs offer a comprehensive solution to poverty. Continued support and expansion of these initiatives could sustain these achievements, empowering even more children to escape poverty and secure brighter futures.

– Cheyenne Weller

Cheyenne is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Examining Hunger in Saudi Arabia

Hunger in Saudi ArabiaThe Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a Middle Eastern country of 36.5 million people, bordering the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. It is a desert country, with almost 81% agricultural land, but with 85% of the population urban. Saudi Arabia is an oil-based (since the 1930s), and is considered a high-income country. 

Hunger is Not a Significant Problem

According to the Global Hunger Index, hunger in Saudi Arabia is Low, with the country ranking 37 on the 2024 GHI out of the 127 countries with sufficient data to be included. The indicators comprising the GHI are proportions of the population undernourished (3% in Saudi Arabia), children under 5 stunted (10.8%), children under 5 wasted (4.5%) and children who die before their fifth birthday (0.6%). Saudi Arabia’s scores have been consistently low for decades—all indicators below 10%, except for child stunting, which has been decreasing from just below 20% in 2000.

Nutrition Issues

The 2022 Global Nutrition Report shows a slightly different picture than the GHI. Of the thirteen global nutrition targets monitored, the report shows Saudi Arabia as “off course” for seven targets and no data for three. Similar to the GHI, the country is “on course” for childhood stunting, as well as for the raised blood pressure of women. However, there has been no progress, or worsening, with regard to anemia among women aged 15 to 49. The report also measures progress towards achieving noncommunicable disease targets related to diet, and Saudi Arabia has shown only limited progress there. 

In addition, the country’s obesity prevalence is higher than the regional average: 45.5% of adult Saudi women, as compared to 10.3% for the region and 34.3% for Saudi men, compared to 7.5%. Diabetes is also an issue for adult women and men (19% and 20%, respectively). 

Consistent with the Global Nutrition Report, in November 2024, the Saudi Arabian government agency, General Authority for Statistics, published data indicating that the obesity rate of those aged 15 and above was 23.1%, with 45.1% classified as overweight. Obesity data for children aged 2 to 14 years was 14.6%, with 33.3% overweight. GASTAT also reported that only 10.2% of the population ate the recommended five or more servings of fruits and vegetables. 

Resource Challenge: Water

Water supply is a challenge for Saudi Arabia that affects domestic grain production, resulting in dependence on imports. This means that supply chain disruptions caused by external events, e.g., the war in Ukraine, impact food costs. The country’s strategy includes maintaining strong relationships with the countries supplying grain, as well as effective government policies. This has included incentives for end-users, and policies to ensure smooth trade flows of raw materials. 

Resource Challenge: Rational Consumption

The Citizen Account program was initiated by the government in 2017 to provide cash support to the “most deserving groups of citizens,” with the objective of promoting “rational consumption of resources.” Approximately $229 billion has been distributed since the inception of the program, with over $3 billion in January 2025, as the program was extended through 2025. 

An NGO Response, Local and Beyond

Eta’am is an NGO established in 2011, the first food bank in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region. The organization creates strategic alliances in order to save food from waste. It does this by distributing surplus food resources to those in need, as well as with community initiatives in the field of food support. 

In 2022, Eta’am partnered with SABB (the Saudi British Bank) to establish Riyadh’s first central catering kitchen, delivering ready-made meals prepared from food/catering companies’ surplus dry foods to people with special needs, orphans and poor families. The goal has been to reduce food waste (aimed at a half million tons of dry and canned goods) while increasing food security and reducing hunger in Saudi Arabia. 

An April 2022 Eta’am initiative distributed almost 157,000 food baskets to over 900,000 people in 19 countries centered around the holy month of Ramadan. Countries receiving food included Albania, Tajikistan (9,650 baskets of food to 51,400 people), Kosovo (13 tons of food to 220 families), and Niger (1,000 baskets to 5,000 individuals). 

In 2023, the food company Sadia partnered with Eta’am and several Saudi retailers to donate 2.5% of sales during the month of Ramadan. Retailers promoted the campaign to raise consumer awareness about the charity and to increase their participation. 

Strengthening the Kingdom: Vision 2030

Vision 2030, an “ambitious vision for an ambitious nation,” launched in 2016. A blueprint for economic diversification, it was designed in five-year phases, beginning with structural and public sector, economic and social reforms. The country is currently in the second phase, with a focus on investments in key sectors and “ambitious” projects. Eleven programs comprise the Vision, with one area being Health Sector Transformation. 

The NEOM Food Production Company launched in December 2023 to develop sustainable solutions in food production, distribution and consumption. The “Vibrant” society vision includes attention to sustainable living and to efficient health and social care systems. Strategic objectives include easing access to, and improving the value of, health care services, and strengthening prevention against health threats. 

Final Thoughts

While Hunger in Saudi Arabia is successfully being addressed, challenges remain in the areas of nutrition, food security and sustainable resource management. Issues such as obesity, diabetes and reliance on food imports highlight the importance of both government policies and private sector initiatives in ensuring long-term stability. Programs like Vision 2030 and partnerships with organizations such as those developed by Eta’am demonstrate the country’s commitment to addressing these challenges through innovation and strategic planning. Moving forward, continued investment in health, sustainability, and food security will be crucial in strengthening Saudi Arabia’s resilience and ensuring a healthier future for its population.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

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EU Grants €1.9 billion to Revitalize Moldova’s Economy

Revitalize Moldova's EconomyThe Republic of Moldova is a country in Eastern Europe, bordering Romania and Ukraine. The country found difficulties in maintaining a stable economy in the following decades, and despite a recent upturn in economic growth, Moldova still faces widespread poverty.

The Reform and Growth Facility

The Reform and Growth Facility for the Republic of Moldova is an economic initiative first proposed by the European Commission in 2024. This year, the European Union and the government of Moldova reached political agreements on the restrictions to the Reform Agenda, officially establishing it as the financial basis for the Country’s current Growth Plan. The European Commission is funding the plan with  €1.9 billion in financial aid from 2025 to 2027. The money will be allocated twice a year on the request of The Republic of Moldova’s parliament after the European Council confirms that all conditions of the initiative have been fulfilled.

The Economy of Moldova

Moldova is one of the poorest nations in Europe, according to the BBC. Although the Republic’s GDP has steadily increased over the past two decades, poverty and unemployment remain commonplace, especially in rural areas. For example, 13.3% of Moldovans fall below the poverty line, and nearly 25% of people between the ages of 15 and 34 do not work or attend school or apprenticeships.

Furthermore, the country’s economic structure has a multitude of underlying obstacles. For instance, it is agriculturally reliant, the BBC reports and does not produce much in the way of energy, importing a majority of its gas, oil and coal. Other structural limitations include government deficiencies, a lack of competition in the marketplace, and unequal business opportunities, all of which, according to the European Council President Ursula von der Leyen, the Reform and Growth Facility for Moldova will attempt to reform and revitalize Moldova’s economy.

The Intended Outcome

The Reform and Growth Facility for Moldova intends to provide financial support, elevate the country’s economy and bring Moldova a step closer to membership in the Europen Union. The first objective, expanding monetary assistance, will include implementing broadband internet to rural regions, as well as providing financial backing to 25,000 Moldovan businesses, according to EU4Digital.

The program also plans to contribute significant socioeconomic and structural reforms with a focus on infrastructure, the government’s role in the economy and social capital. Ursula von der Leyen put it best when she stated, “We invest in jobs, growth, services and infrastructure – from new hospitals in Balti and Cahul to the road from the capital to Odesa,” EU4Digital reports.

The Growth Facility will prioritize building sustainable energy production within Moldova by constructing a new electricity powerline that connects to the EU electricity grid, and as a result, by 2026, the country could no longer rely on energy imports. Foundationally, the Reform Plan will advocate for democracy and anti-corruption within the Moldovian government and will provide support on restructuring the economy to an open market system hinged on fair competition.

The Reform will also integrate Moldova into the European Union’s Single Market. This alone could lead to the Republic’s assimilation into global supply-chains, allowing for increased mobility of products, trade opportunities and involvement in the Digital Marketplace.

A Lesson for Foreign Aid

Since Moldova’s independence, the Reform has been the largest European Union support package, according to the European Commission. Moreover, access to the European Union’s single market has been the prominent economic growth factor for all previously included countries. It is certainly apparent though, what foreign aid can do to revitalize Moldova’s economy and reduce poverty in the country.

– Amelia Dutch Player

Amelia is based in Savannah, GA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Police Stations Combat Gender-Based Violence in India 

Women’s Police Stations Combat Gender-Based Violence in India In India, approximately 120 women live in extreme poverty for every 100 men and 30% of women experience domestic violence. Yet, many never report these incidents due to fear, stigma and a lack of trust in law enforcement. Deeply entrenched gender hierarchies have led to widespread gender-based violence (GBV), where women often endure skepticism and prejudice when they try to tell their stories. When seeking help from male-dominated police stations, Indian women frequently face additional challenges. Men account for 90% of the Indian police force, making it difficult for women to feel safe or understood when reporting violence. Despite government efforts to increase female representation in law enforcement, progress has been slow, leaving many women without a supportive system to rely on.

Women’s Police Stations

Women’s police stations, staffed exclusively by women, provide a safer and more supportive environment for victims of gender-based violence. These stations focus on helping victims rather than solely pursuing the arrest of perpetrators. Officers connect women with domestic violence helplines, provide counseling and help them escape abusive situations. The first women’s police station, the Vanitha Police Station, was established in Kerala, India, in 1973. The success of this model led to the rapid adoption of similar stations across India, with 745 now operating, primarily in urban centers. These stations offer women a space where they can seek help without fear or intimidation. Female officers handle cases of domestic violence and sexual abuse, but they also address other gender-specific issues, giving victims a sense of empowerment and agency.

India’s women-only police stations have inspired similar models worldwide. Brazil established its first women’s police station in São Paulo and countries across Latin America and Africa have since adopted the model to combat systemic discrimination and gender-based violence.

Increasing Reporting and Legislative Impact

Women’s police stations in India have led to a 29% increase in domestic violence reporting. When women see themselves reflected in law enforcement, they are more likely to come forward and seek help. Increased reporting provides governments with more accurate data, which can lead to stronger legislation to protect women. By addressing the root causes of gender inequality, these stations contribute to breaking the cycle of violence and poverty.

Women who are more likely to experience domestic violence are often the same individuals living in extreme poverty. Rural women face higher risks of gender-based violence compared to those in urban areas. Women’s police stations not only offer support but also provide valuable information about the challenges these women face, which can shape policy changes that uplift vulnerable communities. Although the Indian government has attempted to address gender disparities in poverty, women-only police stations add urgency to legislative efforts aimed at ending these inequalities.

Global Impact on Crime Reduction

The success of women’s police stations extends beyond India’s borders. In Brazil, female homicide rates among women aged 18 to 24 dropped by 50% and the overall rate decreased by 17% following the establishment of these stations. Female personnel deterred crimes against women by creating an environment where victims felt safer reporting violence. India’s decision to pioneer this model has had a far-reaching influence, ensuring greater safety for women across the globe.

Women’s police stations offer more than law enforcement. They create a space where women can reclaim their agency, find support and pursue justice without fear. These stations address gender-based violence while contributing to broader efforts to break cycles of poverty and inequality.

Looking Ahead

Women’s police stations in India have demonstrated remarkable success, but their continued impact depends on sustained funding and expanded outreach. Increasing the number of these stations, particularly in rural areas, could ensure that more women have access to safe and supportive environments. Scaling these ongoing efforts can potentially reduce GBV and also contribute to dismantling structural inequalities that perpetuate poverty and violence. By strengthening and expanding this initiative, India has the potential to empower millions of women to live safely and independently, free from the constraints of violence.

– Divya Beeram

Divya is based in San Antonio, Texas, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Emerging Technology Solutions for Refugees

Technology for RefugeesMore than 120 million individuals worldwide currently face forced displacement due to persecution, conflict, violence or human rights violations. This record-high displacement leaves millions of refugees struggling to access basic necessities, education, health care and economic opportunities. However, technology solutions for refugees are reshaping lives by building resilience and creating pathways toward secure and dignified futures.

3D Printing

Additive manufacturing or 3D printing, is transforming health care access for underserved communities by providing highly customizable, cost-effective and lightweight prosthetics for refugee patients who have lost limbs while fleeing conflict. This technology enables refugees to regain mobility, independence and hope for a better future.

e-NABLE, a global network of 40,000 volunteers, has provided 10,000–15,000 free 3D-printed prosthetic hands and arms through open-source design for those lacking medical access. Similarly, the nonprofit 3DP4ME has revolutionized hearing care, delivering 52 3D-printed hearing aids to children in Jordanian refugee camps.

E-Learning Platforms

More than 50% of the world’s 14.8 million school-aged refugee children lack formal education, limiting their future opportunities and slowing global development progress. In response, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) has successfully piloted aprendIA.

This AI-powered platform delivers accessible and interactive learning through high-quality materials, including text, audio, video, gamified assessments and PDFs, via widely used messaging platforms like SMS and WhatsApp.

By leveraging artificial intelligence and natural language processing, aprendIA offers personalized feedback and learning support, ensuring continuous education for children with limited resources.

GeoMatch

GeoMatch is an AI-driven tool developed by Stanford’s Immigration Policy Lab and ETH Zurich to help governments place refugees in optimal locations for successful integration. It analyzes refugees’ background characteristics, resettlement locations and employment data to predict employment outcomes. It also provides data-driven insights to enhance overall refugee well-being.

Translation Apps

Refugees facing resettlement often struggle with the limitations of machine translations and the scarcity of interpreters for some languages. These obstacles hinder their ability to access vital services, comprehend their rights and successfully integrate into their new communities.

Tarjimly, a nonprofit organization, is tackling this issue by connecting refugees with on-demand interpreters, enabling smoother communication during interactions with social workers, immigration officials and medical professionals.

Through a new AI partnership, Tarjimly records these interactions to help train large language models. This groundbreaking feedback loop allows humans to teach machines the nuances and cultural contexts of different languages by sharing data and correcting automated translations.

Video Games

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) research on the digital leisure divide highlights the crucial role of digital access in refugee well-being, fostering rest, community building and access to essential information.

Video games, in particular, hold untapped potential as powerful tools for social and economic empowerment. Therefore, Project Hope, an online game-based initiative for Syrian refugee children in Türkiye, has positively influenced education, cognitive development, language acquisition and mental health.

Similarly, Refjam in North Macedonia has helped 500 displaced and stateless gaming enthusiasts to develop digital literacy and enhance employability through game-design workshops and festivals.

Blockchain

According to the World Bank, approximately 850 million people lack official identification, leaving many, especially children, refugees and stateless persons, without access to health care, education, banking and voting, heightening their risk of displacement and human trafficking.

Decentralized blockchain-based identity technology offers innovative solutions to address the global ID crisis. It provides marginalized populations with a secure, portable and immutable means of digital identification. This technology enables refugees to access vital resources and services, including the ability to seek asylum, with greater ease and efficiency.

Satellite Imagery

The integration of satellite imagery and AI is enabling planners to optimize resource allocation, enhance camp designs, track refugee movements and assess environmental impacts. For instance, AI tools were utilized to analyze migration patterns of Syrian refugees escaping conflict.

By combining satellite imagery with anonymized mobile phone data, the UNHCR could forecast the locations where new refugee camps would be needed. This proactive strategy greatly accelerated response times for humanitarian relief and enhanced living conditions for displaced families.

Makazi

More than 90% of displaced refugees are forced to remain in shelters that eventually become their long-term or semi-permanent residences. These shelters are typically inadequate, environmentally harmful and neglect the social, cultural and traditional values of the people they house.

To address this problem, Edinburgh Napier University’s SHELTERs project has developed a new prototype for temporary shelters called Makazi (Swahili for “home”). Winner of the U.K. 2019 RISE Awards, Makazi features a hexagonal design that enhances the UNHCR’s steel box-like shelters.

It is adaptable to varying temperatures and scalable to accommodate changing needs. It can also be assembled in seven days using locally available materials. Additionally, it includes water harvesting capabilities and an efficient sewage collection system.

Conclusion

Emerging technology solutions for refugees provide transformative approaches to enhance access to critical resources and improve living conditions. However, these innovations face significant challenges, including scalability, funding and infrastructure limitations, as many are still in the early development stages.

While technology solutions can play a pivotal role in supporting refugees, it cannot resolve displacement’s fundamental political, social and economic drivers. Nevertheless, ongoing advancements and integration of these technologies hold substantial promise for improving refugee outcomes and fostering more sustainable and effective humanitarian responses.

– Charlotte Codd

Charlotte is based in Waterford, Ireland and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Adaro Energy and Its Impact in Indonesia

Adaro EnergyIn 2004, Edwin Soeryadjaya, a prominent Indonesian businessman from the wealthy Soeryadjaya family, founded Adaro Energy. The company was established to develop and manage coal resources, particularly in South Kalimantan, Indonesia. As one of Indonesia’s largest energy companies, Adaro Energy aims to provide thousands of jobs across mining, logistics and corporate functions. It focuses on rural regions where mining is a key livelihood, helping reduce poverty rates in these vulnerable areas.

About Coal Mining in Indonesia

According to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), in 2024, Indonesia’s coal sector reached a record high, with national coal production hitting 830.48 million tons, surpassing the target of 710 million tons by 116.97%. This statistic highlights Indonesia’s coal mining market achieving record-high productivity levels in history, including 2023, where production remained at an all-time high.

Indonesia’s government policies in the 1990s promoted eco-friendly, high-quality mining practices and reopened foreign investments. As a result, coal mining has remained a major economic driver, positioning Indonesia among the top five coal-producing countries globally for the past 20 years.

Coal Mining and Rural Poverty Reduction in Indonesia

East Kalimantan, the most intensively mined province, held 42% of Indonesia’s national coal reserves in 2020. Despite being a major coal hub, East Kalimantan’s poverty rate remained at 7.54% in 2021, placing it among Indonesia’s provinces experiencing poverty.

Despite persistent poverty in rural areas like East Kalimantan, South Kalimantan and South Sumatra, Indonesia has made remarkable progress in poverty reduction. The country’s poverty rate has dropped from 11.9% in 2012 to 9.4% in 2023.

According to Jakarta Globe ID, this achievement stems from rapid economic growth driven primarily by mining, alongside improvements in agriculture and forestry, which are closely linked to mining activities. Despite challenges, Kalimantan’s rural areas maintain the lowest poverty rate due to coal mining investments from major companies like Adaro Energy.

Adaro Energy’s Impact on Rural Jobs

Adaro Energy employs more than 5,000 personnel, 70% of whom are of Kalimantan origin. While headquartered in South Jakarta, the company operates in South and Central Kalimantan, creating jobs in these regions and nearby rural areas.

The company emphasizes employee development through programs like the Adaro Mining Professional Program (AMPP) and sustainability training, focusing on technical and leadership skills. By actively recruiting fresh graduates and local community members, Adaro Energy addresses local job market challenges and engages local talent.

Additionally, Adaro Energy promotes a work-life balance culture, offering health and wellness programs, performance bonuses and opportunities to participate in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ensuring employee well-being and community impact.

The Future

While the company focuses on eco-friendly coal mining, it also enhances employability through diverse job opportunities and training programs. An example is the Adaro Learning Management System, which offers management and technical skills courses.

Additionally, Adaro Ignites Education provides mentoring, scholarships and support for Islamic boarding schools, targeting rural and underrepresented communities. These initiatives aim to create extensive career prospects for all employees and locals. To date, the firm has offered scholarships to more than 250 students.

Adaro Energy’s investments in coal mining, education and employment have significantly contributed to rural development in Indonesia. By fostering economic growth, reducing poverty and creating career opportunities, the company continues to shape local communities. Its commitment to sustainable practices ensures long-term benefits for both the industry and the people it supports.

– Liubov Linnyk

Liubov is based in London, UK and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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5 Organizations Fighting Systemic Poverty in Colombia

Poverty in ColombiaColombia, a South American country, has a long history of political tensions and armed conflict, both within its borders and in neighboring Venezuela. Systemic poverty in Colombia has left approximately 18.3 million people living below the poverty line. Multiple factors contribute to this persistent issue, including unequal access to opportunities and a lack of quality public services. These inequalities create dire consequences, with more than 85% of child deaths in certain municipalities being preventable with adequate care, reflecting unequal access to essential services. While the causes of systemic poverty in Colombia are widespread and complex, several organizations are addressing the issue through various targeted approaches.

5 Organizations Fighting Systemic Poverty in Colombia

  • ActionAid U.K. ActionAid U.K. has been working in Colombia since 2020 through a partnership with a local organization. Its work primarily focuses on protecting women’s rights and ensuring their safety, as 30% of women in Colombia have experienced violence from a partner. The organization also aims to address the disparity in opportunities and quality of life between rural and urban areas. To combat the effects of systemic poverty in Colombia, ActionAid U.K. engages in advocacy, promotes sustainable local development, improves water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and protects women and children from sexual and gender-based violence. The organization supports displaced individuals and unemployed victims of violence, offering them resources and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
  • Opportunity International Colombia. Opportunity International Colombia supports people affected by the region’s long-standing conflict. An estimated 7.7 million Colombians have been displaced due to conflict, along with many Venezuelans who have sought refuge in Colombia. The organization provides access to loans and training to help individuals build sustainable businesses. With 55% of adults lacking a formal bank account, rural families remain the least likely to have access to financial services. The organization addresses this gap by offering financial services that empower marginalized communities. Additionally, the organization works to improve education through its EduFinance program, helping children from low-income families access quality education. Through these ongoing efforts, Opportunity International Colombia has played a critical role in improving economic resilience and financial literacy.
  • Tearfund. Tearfund has been working in Colombia since 1980, focusing on poverty caused by migration and conflict. The organization aids families at risk of malnutrition and mobilizes local churches and community groups to provide support. As a result of its advocacy efforts, 24,000 stateless children have now been granted citizenship in Colombia. Tearfund reduces discrimination against violence-affected families and assists with their transition to stability. Community kitchens, food baskets and food vouchers provide thousands of Venezuelan families with improved nutrition and better access to health care services. Tearfund’s commitment to addressing the root causes of poverty has led to tangible improvements in the lives of displaced families.
  • CAFOD. Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) has been working in Colombia for more than 50 years. The organization focuses on supporting victims of conflict and marginalized communities. The organization ensures that those living in extreme poverty can potentially earn an income to support their families sustainably. CAFOD partners with local organizations to address a variety of critical areas, including peacebuilding, human rights protection, gender-based violence and the long-term effects of armed crises. By targeting these key areas, CAFOD improves food security and provides communities with the tools they need to rebuild their lives. Its work not only addresses immediate needs but also supports long-term development and stability.
  • Habitat for Humanity GB. Habitat for Humanity GB works to improve housing and informal settlements in Colombia. Through holistic programs that focus on neighborhood and home improvement, the organization enhances living conditions for impoverished families. Habitat for Humanity GB has worked with 1,440 volunteers and has served 730 people through home repairs. Its work involves constructing houses and improving the infrastructure of informal settlements, promoting housing alternatives and diversifying funding sources. Additionally, the organization raises awareness and mobilizes communities to become involved in improving their living environments.

Looking Ahead

Organizations like ActionAid U.K. and Habitat for Humanity GB play an essential role in addressing systemic poverty in Colombia. Their combined efforts tackle poverty through financial inclusion, education, humanitarian aid and infrastructure improvements. Sustaining progress requires continuous collaboration between local communities, government agencies and international partners. Indeed, expanding these initiatives could create lasting change by addressing the root causes of poverty and ensuring that vulnerable populations have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.

– Sydney Morrow

Sydney is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr