Ethiopia, the largest and most populated country in the Horn of Africa, has taken massive strides in poverty reduction over recent years, as well as having one of the fastest-growing economies in the region with an estimated growth of 6.4% last year. Despite this, it remains one of the poorest in its area. The most recent data available for Ethiopia states that 24% of the population still sits below the poverty line. Many Ethiopians suffering from poverty depend on charities and NGOs operating in Ethiopia to give them the support they need to live and thrive. Here are five charities operating in Ethiopia right now.
1. The Caleb Foundation — Save Life with Pennies
Located in Ethiopia’s bustling capital city, Addis Ababa, The Caleb Foundation — Save Life With Pennies is a nonprofit organization aiming to eradicate poverty through education while providing support for underprivileged families.
Tenadam Alemu founded the charity in 2010 after her son sustained a life-threatening infection while hospitalized, leading her to realize the importance of helping children in need. While her son made a full recovery, Alemu said, “It was during this time that I realized a desperate mother who is crying out for help should never be put on hold.”
Save Life with Pennies provides many different programs in an effort to aid underprivileged citizens. One of its main focuses, however, is their daycare program, a free-of-charge service that provides care, education and food for up to 50 children a day. This allows single mothers to support their families without having to worry about childcare. The program has helped around 800 children since its start.
2. Splash
One of the charities operating in Ethiopia is Splash. The charity aims to provide support for children in urban poverty, especially regarding issues involving water, sanitation, hygiene and menstrual health.
Their project in Ethiopia began in 2008 after observing the rapid population growth in Addis Ababa, which had tripled in size since 1970. Despite Ethiopia’s growing economy, Splash estimates that more than 80% of Addis’ population lives in slum districts with limited access to clean water. To combat this, Splash has aligned itself with existing government goals, all while aiming to reach its goal of providing help to 450,000 children in the most needed areas.
3. Fair Planet
While urban poverty is a big issue in Ethiopia, so, too, is poverty in the country’s more rural areas. Agriculture is a key component of Ethiopia’s economy and employs more than 60% of the population, meaning that many Ethiopians depend on this livelihood to avoid living in poverty. Based in several different areas of Ethiopia, Fair Planet is an NGO that fights poverty through improved agriculture.
Their goal is to provide food security and economic opportunities for local farmers by providing better-quality vegetable seeds and training on how to grow them most effectively, all while ensuring there is minimal change to traditional farming practices.
The project launched in 2012 and has since provided seeds for 75,000 farmers, as well as training more than 2,000 lead farmers on how to best use them.
4. Facing Africa
Facing Africa is a charity made up of volunteer medical staff who are fighting the effects of noma in Africa.
Noma is a gangrenous infection that affects the face, mainly targeting children under the age of 6. Promoted by extreme poverty and malnutrition, the infection begins with ulcers in the mouth. At this early stage, it is treatable with mild antibiotics and nutritional rehabilitation. If left untreated, however, the ulcers progress to painful swelling in the cheeks or lips and eventual gangrene, leading to gaping holes developing in the face. It is estimated that the mortality of noma can reach up to an alarming 90%, due to most cases occurring in remote rural areas that have no medical facilities.
Facing Africa first visited Addis Ababa in 2007, where a team of surgeons, anesthetists and nurses spent two weeks carrying out various facial reconstruction surgeries on noma victims. Every year following, the charity has sent out two teams of volunteers every year, as well as securing a place for patients to receive pre- and post-op care within Ethiopia’s Cheshire Home, a facility that was previously used for polio victims. The charity has raised more than $6.3 million since its humble beginnings in 1988 and continues to use this money to help those suffering from noma.
5. Tearfund
Tearfund has been operating in Ethiopia since the 1970s, working with institutional donors, religious institutions and partner organizations to fight the extreme poverty occurring in Ethiopia.
Its main focus is providing relief and development programs that are not only helpful but sustainable, too. Its goal is to equip and envision local organizations and churches with the materials and knowledge to start their own development projects, allowing them to tackle poverty for the community, by the community.
So far, Tearfund has given communities access to clean water, helped with conflict resolution, provided vocational education and advocated for a fairer future for all. Last year alone, Tearfund helped 1.6 million people through emergency response, and a further 1.3 million with their community development work.
Despite facing struggles such as civil war and difficult climates, Ethiopia has continuously improved its poverty rates in recent years. While there is a long way to go for many of its citizens, the important work these five charities operating in Ethiopia are doing, among many others, will continue to guide the country toward a future where everyone can survive and also thrive.
– Jodie Donovan
Photo: Flickr
El Salvador’s Water Crisis
El Salvador’s Water Crisis
More than 1.6 million El Salvadorians have no access to clean water at home, with 90% of surface water unsafe for drinking, some are forced to make trips to communal water sources up to 20 times a day. El Salvador’s extraordinarily high water pollution levels can be attributed to sources such as industrial and agricultural runoff, where poor state infrastructure means that water is often left untreated. Without clean water, diseases such as dysentery can impact education and household income, as children and adults are too ill to attend school or work. According to U.N. estimates, at least 27% of Salvadorans live in poverty. Many lack the means to afford proper treatment, meaning that diseases can be fatal up to 50% of the time.
Capacity Building
While the severity of El Salvador’s water crisis cannot be denied, various solutions offer hope for those most affected. Strengthening the capacity of El Salvador’s water infrastructure is being implemented in several key ways. After decades of inaction, the Salvadoran government passed the Water Resources Law in 2022, which established a local water regulation authority and requires government approval for industrial or agricultural water usage. Regulating the usage of El Salvador’s water should aid the government in ensuring wastewater is treated and reducing overall pollution. The World Bank has dedicated $100 million to improving water quality in El Salvador with a project that aims to benefit the health and well-being of the most vulnerable groups. A further $100 million was pledged by the Inter-American Development Bank to improve water access for around 120,000 households. El Salvador has also recently banned mining for metal, a leading cause of water pollution in the country.
Water Purification
El Salvador’s water crisis is also being addressed by water purification initiatives, which allow vulnerable residents to access clean water while waiting for infrastructure to be strengthened. More than 2,500 rural families now benefit from solar-powered wells. In areas with insufficient electrical grid capacity, solar power drives clean water from wells into storage tanks. Where clean water is unavailable, sand filtration technology can be used to remove impurities and toxins in water, giving communities access to clean water while removing the need to travel. El Salvador’s water crisis severely threatens its most vulnerable citizens. Pollution and poor infrastructure have left millions without safe water sources. However, capacity building, investment and water purification technology provide a crucial lifeline to El Salvador’s most impoverished citizens.
– Jamie Paterson
Photo: Flickr
Poverty in Sri Lanka
Rising Economic Challenges
The primary economic crisis in Sri Lanka started with attempted resolutions by President Mahinda Rajapaksa. After the Sri Lankan civil war ended in 2009, the president took out huge loans from foreign creditors — including China — to pay war expenses and build more infrastructure. The 2019 Easter bombings and COVID-19 pandemic demolished Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, one of the country’s main sources of revenue, causing it to default on its loans.
With China holding about 26% of Sri Lanka’s debt, the country is now in ‘debt trap diplomacy’. Additionally, 56% of the debt is held by private banks with high-interest rates. Most of this debt was accrued for infrastructure projects that did not yield high enough returns to repay the loans.
Humanitarian Crisis and Sri Lanka Poverty
Between 2020 and 2022, poverty in Sri Lanka rose from 13.1% to 25%. That number continues to rise, as the effects of the Russian-Ukrainian war compound the existing lack of access to resources, such as food and fuel. Inflation rose 46% in 2022, with recent government resolutions causing massive job loss within Sri Lanka.
Agriculture, another huge sector of Sri Lanka’s economy, took a hit in 2021 when the president introduced a ban on chemical fertilizers in an effort to promote “all organic” farming. This disruption of Sri Lanka’s booming tea industry, alongside disrupted supply chains — has created major food insecurity, with 66,000 people suffering from severely acute food insecurity.
The Future for The Children of Sri Lanka
With the alarming lack of resources, the rise of malnutrition is projected to heavily affect children. Lack of funding for clean drinking water projects, as well as the importation of water treatment chemicals as a stopgap measure, leaves Sri Lankan children extremely vulnerable to a variety of diseases. All of these issues, alongside schools remaining closed until 2022, leave an estimated 4.8 million children of Sri Lanka with increased mental health and psychosocial issues in addition to living in deep poverty.
UNICEF’s Core Commitments for Children in Humanitarian Action supports access to essential health care services for children and women. It ensures the maintenance of government functions in addition to access to clean water and solutions to child health risks.
Sri Lanka has shown incredible resilience during these hard times. The “Leave No One Behind” initiative started by the Sri Lankan government and the Welfare Benefits Board (WBB) provides volunteer relief through community kitchens, distribution of nutrition packs and support to access medicine.
– Isabella Polo
Photo: Flickr
Combating HIV/AIDS in Madagascar
Obstacles to HIV Testing and Treatment
The fight against HIV in Madagascar faces formidable challenges. As citizens contend with rising rates of HIV/AIDS, they also face extreme levels of poverty. Many people do not have access to clean water, shelter or education. The World Bank reports that 75% of people in Madagascar live below the national poverty line. Madagascar has an ineffective government and a weak economy. In 2008, a coup d’état heavily disrupted the country’s health programs and foreign aid.
The provisional government proved unable to enact effective HIV prevention or treatment strategies. The COVID-19 pandemic, as well as natural disasters, heightened the number of people experiencing poverty in Madagascar. Most recently, the country suffered from drought from 2018 to 2022 and Cyclone Freddy in February 2023. These factors create a challenging backdrop to thwart HIV/AIDS.
In an audit from 2019 to 2021, The Global Fund cited the availability of HIV test kits as a challenge. Testing supplies are often out of stock, and without access, many citizens are unaware of their status. Additionally, maintaining suitable storage conditions for health products, like HIV medication, is difficult. There is limited access to HIV treatment, and less than 1% of health care sites in Madagascar provide antiretroviral treatment. Current policy dictates that citizens procure HIV treatment through the government, decreasing access.
Humanitarian Efforts Drive Improvements
Global humanitarian organizations continually search for ways to address challenges and combat HIV/AIDS in Madagascar. While there is significant room for improvement, aid organizations made notable contributions in recent years.
Since 2005, The Global Fund has provided $72 million in HIV/AIDS relief to Madagascar and supplied free antiretroviral therapy. The organization recently reported an increase in the number of people receiving HIV treatment. In 2018, 3,510 people received HIV treatment, while in 2021, 8,995 people received HIV treatment. The number of people with HIV who were aware of their status increased by 73% from 2018 to 2021. Additionally, The Global Fund confirmed a reliable pipeline from HIV testing to treatment for citizens of Madagascar. More than 95% of people who tested positive for HIV received treatment. In an investigation, The Global Fund found that antiretroviral treatments were in stock and available to citizens.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) also provides relief for the people of Madagascar. The organization gave more than $130 million in 2020, of which $74.5 million went to health services. USAID invests in the prevention of HIV/AIDS and primary health care in Madagascar, among other directives. In October 2023, USAID gave computer equipment to Madagascar to manage health information. This equipment will synthesize data to aid in the improvement of citizens’ health.
Going Forward
Tackling HIV/AIDS in Madagascar presents significant difficulties. Providing effective HIV/AIDS testing and treatment is challenging due to widespread poverty and a weak government. Organizations are actively working through these challenges to improve the state of HIV/AIDS in the country. Investments in the prevention of HIV/AIDS and increases in the number of people who know their HIV status provide a starting point for further improvements.
– Kelly Carroll
Photo: Flickr
5 Charities Operating in Ethiopia
1. The Caleb Foundation — Save Life with Pennies
Located in Ethiopia’s bustling capital city, Addis Ababa, The Caleb Foundation — Save Life With Pennies is a nonprofit organization aiming to eradicate poverty through education while providing support for underprivileged families.
Tenadam Alemu founded the charity in 2010 after her son sustained a life-threatening infection while hospitalized, leading her to realize the importance of helping children in need. While her son made a full recovery, Alemu said, “It was during this time that I realized a desperate mother who is crying out for help should never be put on hold.”
Save Life with Pennies provides many different programs in an effort to aid underprivileged citizens. One of its main focuses, however, is their daycare program, a free-of-charge service that provides care, education and food for up to 50 children a day. This allows single mothers to support their families without having to worry about childcare. The program has helped around 800 children since its start.
2. Splash
One of the charities operating in Ethiopia is Splash. The charity aims to provide support for children in urban poverty, especially regarding issues involving water, sanitation, hygiene and menstrual health.
Their project in Ethiopia began in 2008 after observing the rapid population growth in Addis Ababa, which had tripled in size since 1970. Despite Ethiopia’s growing economy, Splash estimates that more than 80% of Addis’ population lives in slum districts with limited access to clean water. To combat this, Splash has aligned itself with existing government goals, all while aiming to reach its goal of providing help to 450,000 children in the most needed areas.
3. Fair Planet
While urban poverty is a big issue in Ethiopia, so, too, is poverty in the country’s more rural areas. Agriculture is a key component of Ethiopia’s economy and employs more than 60% of the population, meaning that many Ethiopians depend on this livelihood to avoid living in poverty. Based in several different areas of Ethiopia, Fair Planet is an NGO that fights poverty through improved agriculture.
Their goal is to provide food security and economic opportunities for local farmers by providing better-quality vegetable seeds and training on how to grow them most effectively, all while ensuring there is minimal change to traditional farming practices.
The project launched in 2012 and has since provided seeds for 75,000 farmers, as well as training more than 2,000 lead farmers on how to best use them.
4. Facing Africa
Facing Africa is a charity made up of volunteer medical staff who are fighting the effects of noma in Africa.
Noma is a gangrenous infection that affects the face, mainly targeting children under the age of 6. Promoted by extreme poverty and malnutrition, the infection begins with ulcers in the mouth. At this early stage, it is treatable with mild antibiotics and nutritional rehabilitation. If left untreated, however, the ulcers progress to painful swelling in the cheeks or lips and eventual gangrene, leading to gaping holes developing in the face. It is estimated that the mortality of noma can reach up to an alarming 90%, due to most cases occurring in remote rural areas that have no medical facilities.
Facing Africa first visited Addis Ababa in 2007, where a team of surgeons, anesthetists and nurses spent two weeks carrying out various facial reconstruction surgeries on noma victims. Every year following, the charity has sent out two teams of volunteers every year, as well as securing a place for patients to receive pre- and post-op care within Ethiopia’s Cheshire Home, a facility that was previously used for polio victims. The charity has raised more than $6.3 million since its humble beginnings in 1988 and continues to use this money to help those suffering from noma.
5. Tearfund
Tearfund has been operating in Ethiopia since the 1970s, working with institutional donors, religious institutions and partner organizations to fight the extreme poverty occurring in Ethiopia.
Its main focus is providing relief and development programs that are not only helpful but sustainable, too. Its goal is to equip and envision local organizations and churches with the materials and knowledge to start their own development projects, allowing them to tackle poverty for the community, by the community.
So far, Tearfund has given communities access to clean water, helped with conflict resolution, provided vocational education and advocated for a fairer future for all. Last year alone, Tearfund helped 1.6 million people through emergency response, and a further 1.3 million with their community development work.
Despite facing struggles such as civil war and difficult climates, Ethiopia has continuously improved its poverty rates in recent years. While there is a long way to go for many of its citizens, the important work these five charities operating in Ethiopia are doing, among many others, will continue to guide the country toward a future where everyone can survive and also thrive.
– Jodie Donovan
Photo: Flickr
South Africa’s AI Employment Revolution And Skill Development
On October 30, 2023, Microsoft held its “AI: A New Era” event and announced its plans to partner with Presidential Youth Employment Services (YES) to catalyze South Africa’s AI employment revolution. As reported by Engineering News, the collaboration’s goal is to implement an artificial intelligence (AI) platform into the work sphere, ultimately increasing job opportunities. The AI training initiative will directly empower 300,000 young South Africans, with an aim to certify 30 million Africans in AI-related skills by 2025.
What is the Plan and Who is Behind it?
“AI is the defining technology of our time and is rapidly gaining momentum in the country. We are seeing many organizations exploring the use of this technology to drive innovation and growth,” said Microsoft South Africa CEO Kalane Rampai. The partnership aims to boost job creation and enhance overall employability by properly educating participants and creating a digitally inclusive economy.
While South Africa is considered the most industrialized country in Africa, it has one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world. According to government agency Statistics South Africa, as of November 2023, 61% of citizens ages 15–24 are unemployed. The overall unemployment rate for South Africa is 33%. Unfortunately, it rises to 35% for high school graduates.
Youth Employment Service is a nonprofit organization that offers young South Africans a salaried, one-year apprenticeship in a corporate job, including intensive professional training. As Microsoft reported, the CEO of YES, Ravi Naidoo, states that the organization is “a business-led response to the unemployment crisis in South Africa and inequality in hiring…funded by the companies that provide apprenticeships.” The goal is to identify driven young employed citizens from disadvantaged backgrounds and provide them with skills to excel in new careers.
AI Training Projected Improvements
A country that suffers immensely from youth unemployment, South Africa was chosen to launch AI skill development, which will hopefully act as an incentive. All YES employment program participants gain access to the platform and will become equipped with digital and technological skills, encouraging a job-creation revolution in Africa. The artificial intelligence training includes an introductory course that progresses participants into advanced AI programming, opening up employment opportunities.
According to Engineering News, AI skill development has four focuses: “providing essential infrastructure, building skills and capacity, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and enabling innovation.” Microsoft and YES believe that this technology can give an upward trajectory to the African economy. Analysts predict that South Africa’s AI development can increase Africa’s economy by 50% by 2030. Further, Microsoft’s technological education and employability programs have certified more than four million young people in Africa over the past five years and aim to certify 30 million people in AI skills in Africa by the end of 2025.
Growth for Africa
This new AI skill development will enable thousands of South Africa’s youth with essential digital and technological skills. It not only opens doors to diverse employment options but also paves the way for a future of increased income and sustained economic empowerment. Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, notes that the collaboration with YES will focus on youth unemployment and creating a culture of innovation and employability through digital skill development.
– Samantha J. Rentfro
Photo: Flickr
Addressing the Gender Wage Gap in Jamaica
The Stark Reality: Gender Wage Gap Statistic
A country known for its cultural richness and natural beauty, the gender wage gap here is more than just a statistic — it is a barrier to poverty alleviation. While women have made some progress, holding 28.6% of parliamentary seats as of 2021 and boasting more women managers than any other country, they still face economic disparities that reverberate through their families.
The gender wage gap in Jamaica is most pronounced in the agricultural sector, where women earn 61% less than their male counterparts, deepening the cycle of poverty affecting women.
In 2023, Jamaica scored 0.89 in the gender gap area of economic participation and opportunity, meaning women are 11% less likely to have equal economic participation and opportunities than men.
WROC: Empowering Women Economically
The Inter-American Foundation’s WINGS program collaborates with the Women’s Resource and Outreach Centre (WROC) to tackle the root causes of gender-based violence and poverty, such as unemployment and a lack of education access. Established in 1983, WROC has been a cornerstone in promoting gender equality and empowering women. Its strategic focus extends from health and wellness to sustainable livelihoods and community capacity-building. Partnering with local community groups like the Women’s Empowerment Group, WROC aims to provide training and income-generating opportunities for women, especially in impoverished communities like Trench Town and, notably, Lyndhurst/Greenwich in Kingston.
Bureau of Gender Affairs: Policy Changes for Gender Equality
The Bureau of Gender Affairs (BGA), a specialized agency under Jamaica’s Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, has been invaluable in the persistent fight against the gender wage gap in the country. Unlike many agencies that adopt a broad approach to gender issues, the BGA has zeroed in on the wage gap as a critical factor that perpetuates poverty and hampers economic development.
Through legislative advocacy, the BGA has been pushing for policies that enforce equal pay for equal work. It has been instrumental in the drafting and promotion of bills that aim to eliminate wage discrimination based on gender. This legislative focus is a crucial part of their strategy to not only close the wage gap but also to lift families out of poverty.
In addition to policy work, the BGA has initiated public education campaigns that specifically target the issue of wage disparity. These campaigns aim to raise awareness among employers and the general public about the long-term consequences of the gender wage gap, particularly its role in perpetuating poverty. By educating the public, the BGA seeks to change attitudes and practices contributing to wage inequality.
The National Policy for Gender Equality (NPGE)
The agency also plays a significant role in implementing the National Policy for Gender Equality (NPGE).
One of the key objectives of the NPGE is to address economic disparities between men and women, with a specific focus on wage inequality. The BGA collaborates with various stakeholders, including NGOs and international organizations, to gather data on wage patterns, which is then used to formulate targeted interventions.
Active solutions are underway, spearheaded by the BGA in partnership with local and international organizations. These solutions include community-based programs that offer women skill training and job placement services aimed at placing them in higher-paying jobs, thereby directly addressing the wage gap and contributing to poverty alleviation.
Going beyond policy recommendations, the BGA actively engages with the public and employers through awareness campaigns designed to challenge deeply entrenched gender stereotypes and educate the public about the economic and social repercussions of the gender wage gap.
Recognizing that financial constraints often exacerbate gender-related issues, the Bureau also offers financial assistance to those in need, directly contributing to poverty alleviation.
Community Engagement: The Heart of the Solution
Both WROC and BGA emphasize the importance of community involvement in solving this issue. They engage with local communities to identify the specific challenges that women faced and develop tailored solutions. For instance, WROC has established community centers where women can access resources like vocational training, increasing their employability and potential earnings.
Conclusion
Jamaica’s grassroots initiatives and policy changes are a testament to the nation’s commitment to closing the gender wage gap in Jamaica. Through organizations like WROC and agencies like BGA, Jamaica is not only narrowing the wage gap but also empowering its women. The road ahead is long, but with sustained efforts and a focus on community engagement, Jamaica is steadily marching towards a future free of gender-based economic disparity.
– Jack Jones
Photo: Flickr
Bialla’s WASH Facilities in Papua New Guinea
Bialla’s Success Story
Bialla is a small town in Papua New Guinea with a population of around 13,000. The town has struggled to access clean water for many years, especially in the long dry season. In 2020, the World Bank reported that the Water Supply and Development Project in Bialla has provided clean water for more than 5,000 town citizens. Aside from personal sustenance, the newfound access to water has benefited schools and local markets and generally improved the quality of life of the townsfolk.
The Rest of Papua New Guinea
Bialla’s improvement in its water supply system has encouraged the rest of PNG to follow in its footsteps. In the 2020 Voluntary National Review, PNG reported that 2019 safe drinking water increased by 41% and sanitation improved by 13%. These numbers are giant steps in the right direction for the nation. However, PNG still states that it needs proper infrastructure to get its aid out and there is still a long road to improvement.
WASH Policy 2015-2030
In 2015, Papua New Guinea rolled out the WASH Policy 2015-2030. The policy aims to improve safe water and sanitation access, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas. It provides a comprehensive framework for addressing water and sanitation challenges while emphasizing collaboration, precise definitions and ongoing assessment of policy effectiveness. The policy focuses on delivering WASH facilities in Papua New Guinea, creating frameworks for improved service delivery and outlining improved technologies.
UNICEF
UNICEF has a significant role in helping PNG with its continued goal for WASH improvements. It works with the government of PNG to provide schools with sanitary necessities, like toilets, sinks and water tanks, and promote menstrual hygiene. By doing this, UNICEF promotes children’s health (especially girls) and allows them to stay in school.
In addition, the EU-UNICEF project in PNG will act as a support system for the WASH policy 2015-2030. It will promote clean water and sanitation and strengthen WASH frameworks. It is expected to benefit 160,000 people, including 40,000 children, across all districts of PNG.
The Water for Women
The Water for Women Fund project, which Plan International leads in Papua New Guinea, is another testament to the country’s continued efforts in WASH improvements. It aims to provide climate-resilient WASH facilities to the island of New Ireland and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea. In these two areas, 30% of the population relies on unprotected water, while 80% rely on unimproved sanitation.
This project seeks to improve the health, gender equality and well-being of the 8,000+ people on these islands. Bialla is a testament to how improved access to water and sanitation can better the lives of an entire community. With the coordination and initiatives of government, development partners, aid agencies and the private sector, PNG is looking to replicate Bialla’s success throughout the country.
– Atheeth Ravikrishnan
Photo: Flickr
How National Debt Negatively Affects Developing Nations
While public debt affects the developed world, it is crippling the developing world’s ability to rise out of poverty. Global poverty cannot be solved without recognizing that public debt is a key part of the problem. Without addressing it, developing countries will remain mired in high-interest payments and an ever-growing debt burden that harms their citizens and steals their futures.
How Does National Debt Affect Developing Nations?
Last year, 59 developing countries held national debt worth more than 60% of their GDP. These countries are already combatting many other hurdles to success, including food instability, poor health care and a lack of sanitation. Their high levels of debt prevent them from being able to fully address the issues impacting their people.
The debt problem is so severe that, according to the UN, “3.3 billion people now live in countries where debt interest payments are greater than expenditure on health or education.” These countries are only managing to pay the high interest on their loans, not their actual debt burdens. Developing countries face an increasing need to divert life-saving funds to maintain debt. As a result, national debt affects developing nations in an extremely detrimental way.
National Debt Affects Developing Nations Differently
Public debt affects developing and developed nations very differently. While developed nations have the stability and resilience to ride out their storms and debt mistakes, developing nations do not. They remain stuck in a perpetual cycle of debt that they cannot pay off, while interest payments keep them from lifting themselves out of poverty. The story of debt in these two types of countries is very different.
What is the Interest Rate Disparity and Why Does it Matter?
There is significant disparity in interest rates between loans that developing nations take out as opposed to developed ones. Over the past 10 years, while developed countries have been paying around 1% interest on loans, developing countries have been charged 5-8% interest. It is far more expensive for a developing nation to have debt than it is for developed nations.
Why Do Developing Nations Take Out Loans?
To better understand this massive problem, it is helpful to understand why developing nations take out debt in the first place. The reasons are myriad, but include:
Many developing nations faced multiple disasters in the last few years that, due to their financially vulnerable state, have left them without any recourse other than loans. This means that national debt affects developing nations now even more than it normally would.
Who Do Developing Nations Borrow Money From?
When a country decides to borrow, they have several possible sources, including:
The institution that the country is indebted to has influence over that country and may change how easily the country can pay back the loans. For example, China has resisted the movement of international entities working to alleviate the debt burden on developing nations. That makes helping countries who are indebted to China much more difficult.
Addressing the Debt Crisis
While there is still a great deal of work to do, global awareness of this issue is increasing. The UN published a report on the global debt crisis in July 2023 titled “A World of Debt: A Growing Burden to Public Prosperity.”
Additionally, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund collaborate on the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative, designed to give much-needed relief to developing countries that are overwhelmed with debt. This initiative began in 1996 and provides a road for indebted countries to receive 100% relief on eligible debts. Before a country can receive this aid, it must meet certain criteria — one of which is that the country must “face an unsustainable debt burden that cannot be addressed through traditional debt-relief mechanisms.” There are 36 countries receiving relief through this initiative.
Conclusion
Global public debt has skyrocketed over the last two years, and developing nations have faced heavy impacts. National debt affects developing nations in a way that developed nations are not subject to, which makes it extremely difficult for developing nations to pay off their debt. Efforts by developed nations are necessary to help developing nations rise out of the depths of public debt. When public debt is no longer a concern, these countries can focus on sustainable development to improve the quality of life among their citizens.
– Abigail Leland
Photo: Pixabay
Smart Tattoos: The Future of Health Monitoring in Developing Countries
The Escalating Health Crisis
The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented a staggering rise in diabetes cases, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The number of people with diabetes soared from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014, and there was a notable 3% increase in diabetes-related mortality rates from 2000 to 2019. The disease is a leading cause of severe health complications, including blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke and lower limb amputation.
India, which has the highest number of children and adolescents living with type-1 diabetes — an estimated 229,400 — exemplifies the urgent need for innovative and accessible diabetes management tools. Similarly, Brazil, with 92,300 youth affected, reflects the widespread impact of this chronic condition in developing countries.
The incidence rates of type-1 diabetes in children also shed light on the disease’s reach within these nations. Algeria’s high incidence rate of 34.8 persons diagnosed per 100,000 people each year is proof of the growing need for effective diabetes care and education in Africa and developing countries worldwide.
In its 2018 guidelines on pharmacological agents for managing diabetes in low-resource settings, the WHO noted that “sulfonylureas are currently more affordable than newer oral anti-hyperglycaemic agents for people who pay ‘out of pocket’.” Consequently, they are likely to be more accessible. “This supports the South Asia consensus on diabetes management, which highlighted that cost is an important consideration in this region of the world, as a majority of patients are not covered under medical insurance.”
Smart Tattoos: A Technological Marvel
Historically, tattoos have served various purposes from symbols of cultural significance to marks of personal identity. However, recent research reveals that tattoos may have played a therapeutic role in ancient societies. The discovery of Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy with tattoos strategically placed over acupuncture points, suggests that people used tattoos for pain relief, a practice that mirrors modern acupuncture techniques.
In this modern context, health-monitoring ‘smart tattoos’ represent a significant medical breakthrough. As outlined in the British Journal of Nursing, these tattoos leverage nanotechnology to non-invasively monitor glucose levels. This advancement is crucial for diabetes management, where traditional methods are often invasive and painful, leading to poor adherence, especially in areas with limited health care resources.
A Glimpse into the Future of Health Monitoring
At the forefront of this pioneering innovation is the work that Dr. Ali Yetisen and Ph.D. student Rosalia Moreddu conducted at Imperial College London, coinciding with teams at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, led by Steve Park. Their research delves into tattoos capable of detecting biomarkers such as glucose levels by interacting with the interstitial fluid beneath the skin. In essence, it is a tattoo that changes color in response to blood sugar levels, shifting from yellow to green as glucose rises — a critical indicator for those managing diabetes. This paves the way for a future in which the daily rigors of diabetes management are significantly eased, potentially replacing frequent and painful finger-prick tests.
A study in 2018 revealed a preference for wristband devices that monitor glucose. However, it also indicated a growing interest in tattoo sensors, especially among younger demographics and individuals with type 1-diabetes. This hints at a generational shift in health monitoring preferences.
Other Uses for Smart Tattoos
The scope of smart tattoos extends beyond glucose. The Imperial College team is also exploring the detection of albumin and pH levels, which can signal conditions ranging from kidney failure to lung disease. The technology’s adaptability suggests that it could potentially monitor hydration by measuring ion concentrations, a vital aspect of health maintenance.
Further collaboration between MIT and Harvard Medical School researchers resulted in optical biosensors that can be tattooed into the skin, reacting to changes in interstitial fluid. These biosensors are designed to detect various health indicators, including blood pressure, glucose, lactate, skin temperature and brain activity. The researchers envision that this technology will foster new partnerships between biotech companies and skin professionals, such as prosthesis experts and tattooists. Future research aims to explore new biosensors, body modification practices and interaction techniques.
Parallel to the work at Imperial College, researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have made strides in developing tattoos that are only visible under UV light, making them timely reminders for sunscreen re-application. Another temperature-sensitive tattoo acts as a built-in thermometer, a tool that could be particularly useful in managing health in varying climates.
Adding a digital dimension, Google’s research into conductive ink opens up the possibility of turning body parts into a touchpad. This could enable interactions with devices through simple gestures, marrying the digital and physical aspects of our lives in an unprecedented way.
These technologies may provide a cost-effective, efficient solution for real-time health monitoring, crucial for countries where health care systems are overburdened and under-resourced.
Conclusion
These recent health monitoring innovations offer a glimpse into a future where managing chronic conditions like diabetes could be as simple as glancing at a tattoo. As this technology matures, it holds the promise of not just improving individual health outcomes, but also contributing to alleviating poverty by reducing health care costs and improving the quality of life for millions in developing countries.
– Jack Jones
Photo: Flickr
Empowering a Nation: Innovative Efforts to Relieve Poverty in Brazil
Brazil is one of the fastest-growing countries in South America and faces significant challenges with high levels of poverty and income inequality. As the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported, inflation increased to 6.5% as a result of COVID-19, with essentials such as food prices increasing by 63%. Currently, the ongoing trends have resulted in a need for efforts to relieve poverty in Brazil.
While it is important to recognize poverty in Brazil as a complex and multidimensional issue, it is also necessary to recognize ongoing efforts to relieve poverty, as the nation seeks to build a more equitable and prosperous future for its citizens.
From Marginalization to Entrepreneurship: The Favela-Business Connection
Brazil’s favelas are characterized by their precarious building infrastructures and poverty-based living conditions — they have been a symbol of urban poverty for years. However, in recent years a remarkable transformation has occurred within these settlements. Favela-business partnerships are emerging as a driving force in reshaping these communities with a strong effort to relieve poverty.
Organizations such as the Favela Business School (FBS) offer a digital platform on which residents have access to a diverse range of business information that can be applied directly to favela entrepreneurs. The organization creates an ecosystem aimed to promote entrepreneurship and drive economic transformation in underserved areas. It provides management training and tailored language skills to entrepreneurs in marginalized communities and favelas. Additionally, the program enables business growth through the facilitation of microcredits and effective strategies for connecting, networking and enhancing the local business ecosystem.
The economic impact of favela-business partnerships extends beyond creating jobs. By fostering entrepreneurship, local economies grow, which creates a positive ripple effect that benefits wider communities. This then gains the attention of a variety of investors, who in turn offer financial support for the program.
The impact of the FBS has been substantial, with numerous achievements in its first year of establishment. It provided free training to 146 entrepreneurs from favelas, including a comprehensive curriculum spanning 57 hours and 30 minutes of classes, complemented by 19 hours of mentoring and 4 hours and 30 minutes of live-stream content. These classes extend beyond basic management knowledge to include the development of soft skills. By the end of 2023, FBS aims to train more than 6,000 entrepreneurs annually.
Farmers as Changemakers: The Role of Rural Development Programs
Other innovative efforts to relieve poverty in Brazil include the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to alleviating rural poverty and hunger. IFAD plays a significant role in supporting rural development, offering financial resources to support sustainable agricultural practices, increase agricultural productivity and enhance rural infrastructure.
The program focuses on promoting organic and agro-ecological production methods and facilitating access to markets. It also emphasizes the implementation of water collection and conservation technologies. Incorporating participatory methodologies that blend innovation with traditional knowledge is a key aspect of the program. The initiative is also committed to fostering the full and independent engagement of women and youth, as well as policy dialogue with national counterparts.
These innovative efforts to relieve poverty in rural areas not only enhance agricultural productivity, but also help communities increase their income and food security. In collaboration with crucial co-financiers like the Brazilian Development Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank, the total investment in agricultural production has the potential to surpass $900 million. This substantial funding aims to benefit over 600,000 rural families, fostering improvements in productivity and food security.
Furthermore, IFAD places a strong emphasis on social inclusion in its projects, with the aim to empower indigenous and quilombola (afro-descendant) communities, agrarian reform settlers, women and youth. This focus is essential for preserving cultural heritage and achieving sustainable development, which in turn provides poverty relief.
In practice, 75% of the intended rural families experienced a 20% average increase in both farm and non-farm incomes. Additionally, 50% of the targeted rural families enhanced their production, diversified their output and improved nutrition through access to a broader and more varied food supply. The goal is to achieve a minimum 30% reduction in the rate of extreme poverty within IFAD project operation areas. Communities benefiting from business plans linked to IFAD operations are expected to see at least a 20% increase in assets. Lastly, a targeted 10% decrease in malnutrition rates is anticipated across IFAD project operation areas.
Tech For Good: Digital Inclusion
Brazil has been making large strides in expanding digital inclusion, recognizing that access to technology is a powerful tool for relieving poverty. The Wi-Fi Brasil program, launched by the government in 2022, aims to provide affordable internet access to communities living in poverty. This initiative improves connectivity and opens up opportunities for online education, remote work and e-commerce, empowering individuals to break the cycle of poverty. The program includes 15,000 internet points to facilitate communities’ access to connectivity, as well as more than 10,000 internet points installed in public schools to improve the quality of education. Programs such as Wi-Fi Brasil allow communities to connect, share their stories and advocate for poverty relief by providing a platform for social and political mobilization.
Innovative efforts to relieve poverty in Brazil represent a beacon of hope in the journey toward a more equitable and prosperous nation. Brazil’s multifaceted approaches, ranging from favela-business partnerships and sustainable agriculture to digital inclusion have demonstrated the power of innovative efforts in the battle against poverty.
These initiatives not only alleviate immediate economic hardships but also foster sustainable development, empower marginalized communities and challenge long-standing stereotypes. By embracing technology, fostering entrepreneurship and focusing on inclusivity, Brazil is actively changing the narrative of poverty and providing opportunities for individuals and communities to break free from it.
– Mia Deniz Duru
Photo: Flickr