The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Haiti has forcibly displaced an estimated 300,000 people, with women and young girls being the most vulnerable groups. These women not only struggle with the loss of their homes but also face the violent threats posed by criminal gang members. As tensions escalate in the country’s capital, access to health services, food and clean water has become increasingly scarce. International aid representatives are urging the Haitian government to act against the violence and to prioritize women’s voices and experiences in their political agenda.
Women at the Forefront of the Crisis in Haiti
Following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021, Haiti fell into a state of political instability. The country’s capital, Port-au-Prince, became a center for gang violence. Since then, violence has victimized a total of 5,400 individuals and authorities have reported an additional 3,000 murder cases. Women, among the most vulnerable residents, are experiencing an unprecedented increase in gender-based violence. Many women face risks of sexual exploitation and sexual slavery.
In a study conducted in 2023 by the women’s organization, MARIJAN, 63% of the 299 women and girls from marginalized neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince responded that they were forced to relocate due to the ongoing violence. Additionally, one in five of these women disclosed that they had been victims of rape and 17% reported experiencing some form of physical violence. Natalie Eleanor Virginia, General Coordinator for MARIJAN, IRC partner organizer in Port-au-Prince, observes: “Women and girls are faced with an inhuman social reality. In marginalized neighborhoods, they are exposed to physical and psychological violence; beatings, intimidation, gang rape and murder are some of the methods gangs use to establish their domination and force women and girls into total submission”.
Virginia clarifies that those who have managed to escape their neighborhoods and have sought refuge in one of the many camps around Port-au-Prince are not exempt from the dangers. On the contrary, physical and verbal violence and sexual exploitation remain prevalent in the camps. Instances of female kidnappings have also been on the rise. In 2023, nearly 1,000 women were reported missing– which is almost equal to the number of victims in 2022 and practically three times more than in 2021. The number of women at risk of being kidnapped will only continue to rise as many roads they travel are under the control of various gangs.
Gang Violence and Medical Access in Haiti
Over the last three years, the increasing number of gang-related attacks on hospitals in Port-au-Prince has severely limited people’s access to health care services. Less than half of the capital’s health facilities are still operational and they risk running out of supplies. In March of this year, the United Nations (U.N.) warned that about 3,000 pregnant residents of Port-au-Prince might soon lose access to essential health services. Among these women, an estimated 450 could face life-threatening complications.
The U.N. also noted that an additional 521 victims of sexual violence would be unable to access medical services. Even before the crisis, Haiti struggled to provide adequate health services for its female residents. Each year, more than 1,500 Haitian women die from childbirth or pregnancy-related complications. Additionally, only 3% of rape victims receive the necessary treatment within 72 hours of the incident.
Lending a Voice and Hand to the Silenced
In early May 2024, the U.N. held a press conference to highlight recent developments in Haiti concerning its female residents. The panel of experts expressed concerns about the insufficient aid provided to Haitian women. Additionally, it criticized the Haitian government for undermining state institutions designed to serve the most vulnerable populations. The experts also revealed that the government’s failure to effectively address corruption has made it complicit in gang violence and activities. A panelist emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “No one should be forced to choose between their safety and their ability to provide for themselves and their families, attend school, access health care and basic services, including sexual and reproductive care.”
The UNFPA has also spoken out for the cause, demanding additional funding. Since the crisis began, the organization has supported three hospitals in Port-au-Prince that provide maternal health services. Additionally, the UNFPA has supplied 13 health centers in the country’s capital and neighboring regions with necessary items, including rape kits.
The U.N. Women has contributed its share of aid by partnering with Rapha International. Together, they have provided emergency aid to female survivors of sexual violence, including counseling, medical assistance, economic support and refuge. The two organizations have also developed an online platform that allows victims of sexual violence to seek medical and psychosocial assistance anonymously. Since its launch, more than 2,000 women have used the system. Additionally, it has enabled approximately 230 women to access hygiene kits or food supplies.
Taking Matters into Her Own Hands
Despite the grim political state in Haiti, the women continue to demonstrate strength and resilience. Many have united and now identify themselves as “peace mediators.” This newfound hope stems from the creation of the project “Fanm Djamn Pou Lape.” The project focuses on empowering women and encourages their participation in peacebuilding efforts.
Since its inception in 2022, 97 women from various metropolitan areas around Port-au-Prince have committed to resolving conflicts within their communities. The project has successfully developed safe havens and brought together victims of gang-related violence. It aims to build and strengthen communities by focusing on collective memories. Matienge, a young woman and member of the project, explains, “By encouraging collective remembrance of past experiences, we have fostered a shared understanding of events, promoting reconciliation and building both individual and community strength.”
Looking Ahead
The humanitarian crisis in Haiti continues to severely impact women and girls. It exacerbates their vulnerability to violence and limits access to essential services. The U.N. and various organizations are calling for urgent action and increased aid to support these affected populations. Initiatives like “Fanm Djamn Pou Lape” demonstrate the resilience and determination of Haitian women. They play a crucial role in peacebuilding and community strengthening amid ongoing challenges.
– Yasmine Nowroozi
Yasmine is based in Laval, Quebec, Canada and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.
Photo: Flickr
AMVA: An Initiative to Expand Vaccine Manufacturing in Africa
AMVA Launch
GAVI has officially launched its innovative financing system, the African Manufacturing Vaccine Accelerator (AMVA), in an effort to increase the vaccine manufacturing industry in Africa. The aim is to prevent outbreaks, promote health and prepare for pandemic response. The African Union, along with the French government and members of the European Union, will contribute more than $800 million toward the diversification and improvement in the accessibility and distribution of vaccines locally within the continent.
Supplying a Continent in Need
Africa remains the least vaccinated continent, importing 99% of vaccines yet manufacturing less than 1% globally. With a population of more than one billion, the impact of COVID-19 brought a harsh reality upon much of the region. By the end of 2021, 50% of the world was fully vaccinated compared to only 7% of the African population. Many countries faced issues with supply, lack of funding and logistics and inadequate distribution, creating challenges in obtaining a sustainable vaccination program. This resulted in a push for change in becoming self-reliant.
Therefore, the Partnership for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM) was launched in 2022 by the African Union and managed by the African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (African CDC), also a stakeholder in this new accelerator initiative. Currently, more than 56% of Africans have reached full COVID-19 vaccination; while this is an achievement, more work needs to be done. Africa needs to begin manufacturing vaccines in order to continue this progress.
How AMVA Operates
AMVA will use financing to encourage manufacturers to invest in Africa. It offers two incentive types: the milestone payment and the accelerator payment. The milestone payment is issued for producing vaccines listed as a priority by GAVI for treating diseases such as Cholera, Malaria, Measles-rubella, hepatitis B, Yellow Fever and Ebola.
In contrast, the accelerator payment is a “pay per dose” option that is paid upon delivery of vaccines purchased through the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) tenders. All manufacturers must submit an application to GAVI for an assessment and prequalification process. Additional requirements are that vaccines must be fully manufactured in Africa or the fill and finishing process must be handled at a facility in Africa.
Looking Ahead to the Future
The goal of PAMVA is to meet 60% of the continent’s vaccine requirements by 2040. This vision will not come without challenges, though. About $30 billion in funding is needed for this strategy and many African countries have different struggles, from issues with unreliable pricing to negotiating contracts to a lack of budget and expertise in vaccine procurement. This plan is going to take time, training and careful planning, but this could be the start of a major shift in reshaping Africa, saving lives and advancing the economy.
– Tanita Love
Photo: Flickr
Uyghur Health Care Disparities in Xinjiang
Current Health Care Situation
The distribution of health care services in Xinjiang is highly unequal. Approximately 80% of the region’s health care infrastructure is concentrated in urban areas predominantly inhabited by Han Chinese. Consequently, rural Uyghur communities are forced to rely on substandard and unregistered clinics. Moreover, reports indicate that Uyghurs have been subjected to forced medical treatments, including sterilizations and organ harvesting. These practices violate basic human rights, instill fear and mistrust in the health care system and discourage many from seeking assistance.
Impact on Poverty
Uyghur health care disparities compound existing poverty levels. Poor health reduces an individual’s ability to work and contribute economically. The lack of adequate maternal and child health care services has also led to higher infant mortality rates, further hindering the community’s development. This has created a vicious cycle of poverty and illness.
Health care inequalities contribute to the broader economic divide in Xinjiang. Employment discrimination and social exclusion limit Uyghurs’ opportunities for upward mobility. The economic marginalization fuels ethnic unrest and perpetuates a sense of injustice among the Uyghur population.
NGO Efforts and Interventions
Several nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have stepped in to address such challenges. These organizations focus on research-based advocacy, raising awareness of human rights violations and pushing for policy changes to improve health care access. The Uyghur Human Rights Project (UHRP) and Human Rights Watch (HRW) document and report crimes against humanity, advocating for global recognition and condemnation of these practices. Such efforts aim to increase international pressure on the Chinese government to improve conditions and ensure the rights and well-being of the Uyghur population.
On the ground, organizations like Muslim Aid USA are taking vital steps to aid Uyghur refugees by providing essential health care services. It established medical clinics and mobile health units in refugee camps and urban settlements, offering maternal and child health services, vaccinations and treatment for common illnesses. Additionally, it recognizes the psychological trauma many refugees endure and is working to provide mental health support. These efforts are crucial in mitigating the Uyghur health care disparities that result in their impoverishment.
Positive Prospects and Technology
Technological advancements such as telemedicine offer innovative solutions to bridge the health care gap. By leveraging digital platforms, providers can reach remote Uyghur communities with medical consultations, health education and monitoring services. Telemedicine is a step toward improving their well-being and empowering individuals to take charge of their health. With continued advocacy and international support, there is potential for progress in Uyghur health care access and quality to create a more equitable future.
– Asiya Siddiqui
Photo: Flickr
Empowering Women in West Africa
The Women Leaders Network for Development
In 2012, Gloria founded the Women Leaders Network for Development or Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD). RFLD is a nonprofit organization that promotes sustainable development and, more specifically, gender equality and women’s rights. The organization is based in West Africa and has its headquarters in Benin. RFLD is active in 27 countries and works with more than 60 women-led organizations, tackling both “structural and individual barriers to gender equality” and “social inclusion.”
Focus and Expertise
RFLD seeks to empower women in the context of regional initiatives that focus on issues surrounding:
Strategic Plan 2023-2028
In March 2024, RFLD announced that it was raising $10 million to fund its 2023–2028 Strategic Plan. The vision for change lies within the plan’s objectives, promoting:
The plan emphasizes the importance of women human rights defenders (WHRDs). Experienced women are best suited to address unique gender-based challenges, offer fresh perspectives and lead efforts in various human rights struggles, making their involvement essential for lasting change. WHRDs not only safeguard basic rights and freedoms but actively work to expand their influence and effectiveness. RFLD has recognized the vital role of these stakeholders and now strives to empower them with its strategic plan.
Country-Level Impact
Notable areas of impact are the issues covered at a country level. Across 27 countries, RFLD conducts awareness campaigns and education workshops, provides training and resources and supports a range of women, from entrepreneurs to small farmers. It also raises civil society activists, lawyers and judges on women’s rights.
From supporting women in the fishing industry in Mauritania and promoting gender equality in cocoa farming in Ghana to combating food insecurity and early marriage in Chad, RFLD’s work follows its various issues of focus. In Mauritius, the organization promotes women’s entrepreneurship in the technology sector. In the Central African Republic, RFLD promotes peacebuilding through interfaith dialogue. Its impact across sub-Saharan Africa is variable and ongoing and this hard work has allowed the RFLD’s progress to spread.
RFLD’s Delegation
The nonprofit’s influence is now reaching the African Union. The RFLD is funding a 13-person delegation to attend the 6th Gender Is My Agenda Campaign Network (GIMAC) Strategic Engagement in Accra, Ghana. The GIMAC Network aims to promote the rights and leadership of women in West Africa and monitor the implementation of the Solemn Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa.
These events will go from 12 to 15 July 2024. The theme of the 6th GIMAC Strategic Engagement is “Educational Transformation for Gender Equity and Sustainability.” With a delegation composed of young women leaders, government officials and CSOs, women’s voices are amplified and contributions are made toward the future of girls’ education in Africa. The delegates also will benefit from the opportunity to network with influential leaders, represent their constituencies and contribute to discussions.
RFLD’s strategic plan, country-level impact and delegation are significant strides in women’s empowerment in sub-Saharan Africa. The organization symbolizes hope for a future where women in West Africa can flourish and fully exercise their rights.
– Caroline Albright
Photo: Flickr
3 NGOs Providing Clean Water in Laos
Furthermore, a significant portion of the predominantly rural Lao population lacks access to proper sanitation facilities, forcing them to defecate in open areas. This practice leads to runoff, contaminating the drinking water supply with fecal matter. The scarcity of clean water in Laos has severe public health implications. Contaminated water is a major contributor to diarrheal diseases, which are the 8th leading cause of death in the country. According to a 2019 World Health Organization (WHO) estimate, 21.6 people per 100,000 in Laos died from diarrhea.
Joint Partnerships
Even though much needs to be accomplished, improvements have been made. In 2023, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Government of Laos celebrated the 50th anniversary of their partnership. When they started working together, less than 300,000 people had access to clean water. As of 2023, the capital province of Vientiane was officially declared Open Defecation-Free (ODF). Additionally, “three more provinces are nearing ODF status and nearly 86% of villages nationally achieved this benchmark.” A lot of this success can be attributed to intergovernmental organizations like UNICEF, the WHO and USAID. However, several smaller organizations have done and continue to do vital work in providing water to the people of Lao. Here are three nonprofits providing access to clean water in Laos.
Abundant Water
Founded in 2008 by Australian Engineer Sunny Forsyth, Abundant Water makes clay pottery water filters. It has been operating in Laos since 2011. After an initial 12-village survey that involved recording water use data, sample testing and trainee hiring, the organization built its production and training center in Vientiane. So far, it has “distributed 11,670 handmade ceramic water filters reaching 103,881 beneficiaries throughout the country.”
Through its work, Abundant Water also promotes sustainability. Beyond manufacturing the clay filters, it also trains local potters on how to make the filters themselves. During the first year of operation, it trained five ceramicists from remote rural villages to produce the filters on their own. By the end of the training, all of them were able to make a filter that produced clean enough water to meet the national standard.
After 12 years, more than 192 Lao people have been trained, leading to a significant impact on the ground. Abundant Water’s flagship project in Xaisomboun province targeted 33 villages, installed 794 filters and provided clean water to 3,864 people. Of all 3864 people, 98% of the households reported improved health, 86% saved time from not having to boil water, 81% reduced firewood consumption and “65% of families saved” between $0.23 to $0.90 (5,000-20,000 KIP) a week.”
Planet Water
Mark Steele established the Planet Water Foundation in 2009. Since then, it has provided clean water to more than 4 million people in 28 different countries in the Asia-Pacific region and Latin America. Planet Water has been operating in Laos since 2010. The primary method by which it produces clean water is through its AquaTower community water filtration system. Mostly implemented in rural schools, the AquaTower uses gravity to remove dangerous pathogens, producing drinking water for up to 1,800 people. There are also handwashing stations attached. This is particularly important because 44% of schools do not have a basic water supply and 68% lack basic sanitation. Most kids in these schools have to “rely on bottled water for drinking. Students who cannot afford this luxury have no option but to bring unfiltered water from their home.”
East Meets West
East Meets West, also known as Thrive Networks, was founded in 1988 by Le Ly Hayslip, the author of “When Heaven and Earth Changed Places.” This memoir, about her peaceful childhood and war-torn early adulthood, later served as the inspiration for Oliver Stone’s “Heaven & Earth,” starring Tommy Lee Jones. Initially, East Meets West operations provided clean water, health and education to communities in Vietnam. However, since 2010, East Meets West expanded into Cambodia and Laos. This was possible with help from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs, the World Bank and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Since 2014, East Meets West has supplied water to nearly 90,000 people in Laos, including more than 12,000 schoolchildren. It has also built more than 5,000 toilet facilities in rural areas. Working in Luang Prabang, Sayyabouly and Champasak provinces, the organization uses a Women-led Output Based Aid (WOBA) solution, creating “meaningful gender empowerment outcomes by systematically engaging women as change agents in the sector and decision-makers in the household.” In the future, East Meets West is looking to expand into more provinces in order to continue providing clean water in Laos.
– Mason Borden
Photo: Flickr
Assisting Zambia’s Agricultural Communities
Despite a slight rise in urban poverty since 2015 due to factors such as the impact of COVID-19, the urban poverty rate remains around 31.9%, which is about half the national average. This difference is usually attributed to the nature of industry, which differs between these regions. While rural areas primarily derive their income from the agricultural industry, urban areas have benefitted from the growth of construction and financial sectors.
Challenges Facing Zambia’s Agricultural Sector
Multiple factors have contributed to Zambia’s agricultural industry’s deterioration. A report by the International Growth Center (IGC) found that while the sector employs 59% of the workforce, it makes up only 3.4% of the country’s national gross domestic product (GDP). The IGC lists a number of factors that contribute to this underperformance, many of which converge around issues of low levels of funding and limited access to sophisticated technology, hindering farmers’ ability to harvest and deliver crops cost-effectively and efficiently.
The report outlines a specific issue: many farmers’ limited access to suitable finance and insurance. Where 85% of the credit is dedicated to larger-scale commercial producers, many small-scale farmers lack access to the same financial services. This limits their growth potential and makes it difficult for them to compete. Many of the factors contributing to agricultural decline are out of farmers’ control, such as increasing levels of drought. However, improving the accessibility of financial resources among Zambia’s agricultural communities would empower small-scale farmers. Additional finances would allow them to invest in efficient technology, make bigger agricultural investments and track their supply and demand.
Supporting Zambia’s Agricultural Communities
Various schemes have been introduced to support Zambia’s agricultural communities. The International Development Enterprises (iDE), a global organization that works to empower entrepreneurs in the fight against global poverty, has run a number of schemes across the country. Recognizing the impact technology can have, iDE has set up demonstration plots to showcase various labor-saving technologies, such as water-saving irrigation systems. These plots have become important centers of community for farmers to meet, sell products and learn about productive farming practices and technologies. iDE has also helped lift a number of rural farmers out of poverty through the provision of microloans, supplying them with the necessary capital to cover the costs of crops and propel their small businesses.
E-Commerce Empowering Zambia’s Agricultural Sector
The move toward introducing forms of e-commerce into Zambia’s agricultural communities has and will have, a profound impact. The introduction of e-commerce will empower and assist small-scale farmers to gain control and autonomy over their finances. Assisted with funding from the Citi Foundation, the World Food Programme (WFP) has recently introduced an initiative that seeks to boost financial inclusion and resilience among Zambia’s agricultural communities.
In addition to helping farmers further develop their financial literacy skills and increasing their access to affordable credit, the scheme aims to scale up the financial app “Maano.” This is an e-commerce platform that allows farmers to advertise their products and track levels of supply and demand. Schemes like this empower small-scale entrepreneurs, recognizing the benefits that financial autonomy and management can have for rural farmers.
Final Remark
The decline of Zambia’s agricultural productivity can be partially explained by large-scale factors such as increasing levels of drought and low government funding. However, declining levels of productivity and efficiency could be reduced through empowering farmers on an individual economic scale. By teaching farmers financial literacy skills, they will be able to manage their sales more efficiently. Furthermore, it will ensure that they are maximizing the economic potential of their crops. This financial control will also assist farmers in achieving long-term economic resilience in the face of possible market fluctuations.
– Aimee Masters
Photo: Flickr
3 NGOs Fighting the Water Crisis in Eswatini
3 NGOs Fighting Eswatini’s Water Crisis
Looking Ahead
Efforts to tackle the water crisis in Eswatini show promise through the collaborative work of NGOs like WaterAid, Thirst Project and SWA. These organizations focus on improving water access and sanitation infrastructure, essential for the well-being of rural communities. With ongoing support and strategic initiatives, Eswatini aims to significantly enhance clean water availability. Initiatives will also improve sanitation coverage, whilst addressing critical public health challenges.
– Sophia Manole
Photo: Flickr
Food Crisis in Kenya: Challenges and Responses
Urban Impact: Food Insecurity in Nairobi
Low-income communities in Nairobi, where 60% of the city’s four million residents live in urban slums, are severely impacted by the nation’s food crisis. The scarcity of available food has driven up prices, exacerbating the difficulty of affording quality food. Migrant households suffer disproportionately, with 65% spending more than a third of their income on food.
Drought Effects in Northern Kenya
The northernmost region of the country, particularly the arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL), faces the most severe impacts of drought, experiencing high food insecurity and diminished food production due to decreased rainfall. These areas typically receive little to no rain, exacerbating the situation. In Kenya’s rural regions, malnutrition is a growing problem, with more than two million people highly food insecure. As of 2021, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) identified more than one million people in crisis and more than 300,000 in extreme conditions.
World Food Programme Initiatives
The World Food Programme (WFP) in Kenya provides food and cash aid, impacting more than half a million beneficiaries through various projects. The WFP has introduced H2Grow, a project that promotes hydroponics to innovate agricultural production among struggling farmers. Additionally, the Cash for Schools project has expanded the impact of school meal programs. By securing more stable markets, the WFP ensures children receive adequate nutrition and supports local farmers effectively.
Action Against Hunger’s Response
Action Against Hunger is addressing the rising malnutrition cases exacerbated by the food crisis in Kenya, particularly around Nairobi and in regions like Isiolo and Marsabit. These areas are experiencing heightened malnutrition due to a prolonged drought affecting food quality and distribution. In 2023, Action Against Hunger supported nearly one million people through programs that treat malnutrition, enhance water access and educate farmers on the adaptations for the changing climate.
Looking Forward
The food crisis in Kenya poses a dire threat to a vast number of people, risking starvation, malnutrition and poverty across the nation. With high food prices and low agricultural output, food insecurity is escalating in impoverished areas and even among middle-class residents of urban centers like Nairobi. In response, Kenya has garnered support from numerous international organizations such as the World Food Programme, Action Against Hunger and Food Banking Kenya. These groups strive to provide the nation with adequate and reliable food sources. Despite increased rainfall in 2023, the crisis still severely affects more than 1.5 million people. Without sustained aid, the conditions in Kenya are likely to deteriorate further.
– Immanuel Wiggins
Photo: Flickr
The Gavi Group: Working Toward Immunization in Haiti
The Gavi Group
The Gavi Group, a vaccine alliance, aims to save lives and protect people’s health by increasing equitable and sustainable use of vaccines. This organization has successfully vaccinated approximately 1 billion children in 78 lower-income countries, preventing more than 17.3 million future deaths. Gavi collaborates extensively with various organizations, including UNICEF, advocating for increased support in providing essential vaccinations to low-income areas. In 2022, Gavi partnered with 19 manufacturers that supply prequalified vaccines supported by the alliance.
Zero-Dose Children
The zero-dose children program is one of its main programs, it targets children who have not received any routine vaccines. The Gavi Group defines zero-dose children as those who lack the first dose of the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP1) vaccine. Children younger than seven require five doses of DTP1. Due to its high poverty rate, Haiti has many communities that lack access to these essential vaccinations.
Improving Vaccination Rates in Haiti
According to the Gavi group, Haiti has 64,706 children who have not received any routine vaccines. The coverage rate for the DTP vaccine in Haiti rose to 75% in 2022. There has been a consistent increase in the number of children receiving the DTP1, DTP2 and DTP3 vaccines. This progress enables children in low-income communities to grow up without the threat of these diseases. Children are fundamental to the future of our society and need protection. Enhancing vaccination rates in developing countries can potentially improve the future of health care in these areas.
Looking Ahead
Despite facing severe economic hardships, Haiti has made significant strides in improving its immunization rates. Through strategic health interventions and effective partnerships, the country increased its coverage rate for the DTP vaccine to 75% in 2022. The Gavi Group’s efforts have been instrumental in vaccinating thousands of zero-dose children, ensuring they are protected from preventable diseases. These advancements highlight the importance of continued support and collaboration to enhance health care outcomes in Haiti.
– Tess Curran
Photo: Flickr
The Fight Against Sleeping Sickness in the DRC
Neglected Tropical Diseases
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are bacterial and parasitic diseases that thrive in tropical environments, currently affecting more than one billion individuals worldwide, especially those in low-income countries and marginalized populations. Despite their devastating impact on health, the pharmaceutical industry pays relatively little attention to NTDs due to financial disincentives to research and develop new treatments for impoverished populations. Individuals affected by NTDs often face stigma within their communities, which further hinders their access to necessary care.
DNDi’s Focus On Sleeping Sickness
The Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) is a nonprofit research and development organization focusing on the lack of awareness surrounding NTDs and is actively working to develop new treatments for sleeping sickness. Currently, about 65 million individuals in the rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa are at risk of contracting sleeping sickness. Specifically, in the last five years, the DRC has reported 61% of all cases, highlighting a staggering need for concern and action.
Sleeping sickness, transmitted through tsetse fly bites, initially causes symptoms like fever, chills and headaches in infected individuals. These symptoms quickly progress to attack the central nervous system, leading to sleep disruptions, severe neuropsychiatric disorders, convulsions and potentially a coma. Without treatment, sleeping sickness usually proves fatal rapidly.
Complicating its treatment, the initial symptoms of sleeping sickness closely resemble those of malaria, another prevalent disease in the DRC. This similarity often leads to misdiagnosis and mistreatment, with the correct diagnosis frequently coming too late. Historically, the only available treatment was melarsoprol, an arsenic derivative that carried a fatality rate of 10-50%. Additionally, factors like massive population displacement, violence and persistent poverty in the DRC exacerbate this and other epidemics, hindering effective treatment efforts.
Recognizing these ongoing challenges, the DNDi acknowledges the critical importance of early diagnosis to prevent the progression of symptoms to the neurological stage. DNDi is urgently investing in the research and development of safe and effective treatments for sleeping sickness.
DNDi Receives Impactful Grant
The DNDi received a $12 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to accelerate the development of an innovative new drug for sleeping sickness. DNDi has already revolutionized treatment with Fexinidazole, a new single-pill, single-dose medication. Along with a new rapid diagnostic test, this grant has significantly advanced the sustainable elimination of the disease. The funding will continue until the end of 2027 to support the delivery of this new cure to various rural areas in the DRC. The World Health Organization (WHO) and DNDi are optimistic about reaching and sustaining zero cases of sleeping sickness in the DRC by 2030.
Optimistic Future Ahead
Health professionals have screened more than 2 million individuals for sleeping sickness, including 749 patients from the DRC, where the new innovative drug, Fexinidazole, has proven effective and safe for adults and children. This advancement and continued treatment efforts offer hope for the DRC’s future in combating disease burden and poverty.
– Kewe Chen
Photo: Flickr
The Humanitarian Crisis and Women in Haiti
Women at the Forefront of the Crisis in Haiti
Following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021, Haiti fell into a state of political instability. The country’s capital, Port-au-Prince, became a center for gang violence. Since then, violence has victimized a total of 5,400 individuals and authorities have reported an additional 3,000 murder cases. Women, among the most vulnerable residents, are experiencing an unprecedented increase in gender-based violence. Many women face risks of sexual exploitation and sexual slavery.
In a study conducted in 2023 by the women’s organization, MARIJAN, 63% of the 299 women and girls from marginalized neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince responded that they were forced to relocate due to the ongoing violence. Additionally, one in five of these women disclosed that they had been victims of rape and 17% reported experiencing some form of physical violence. Natalie Eleanor Virginia, General Coordinator for MARIJAN, IRC partner organizer in Port-au-Prince, observes: “Women and girls are faced with an inhuman social reality. In marginalized neighborhoods, they are exposed to physical and psychological violence; beatings, intimidation, gang rape and murder are some of the methods gangs use to establish their domination and force women and girls into total submission”.
Virginia clarifies that those who have managed to escape their neighborhoods and have sought refuge in one of the many camps around Port-au-Prince are not exempt from the dangers. On the contrary, physical and verbal violence and sexual exploitation remain prevalent in the camps. Instances of female kidnappings have also been on the rise. In 2023, nearly 1,000 women were reported missing– which is almost equal to the number of victims in 2022 and practically three times more than in 2021. The number of women at risk of being kidnapped will only continue to rise as many roads they travel are under the control of various gangs.
Gang Violence and Medical Access in Haiti
Over the last three years, the increasing number of gang-related attacks on hospitals in Port-au-Prince has severely limited people’s access to health care services. Less than half of the capital’s health facilities are still operational and they risk running out of supplies. In March of this year, the United Nations (U.N.) warned that about 3,000 pregnant residents of Port-au-Prince might soon lose access to essential health services. Among these women, an estimated 450 could face life-threatening complications.
The U.N. also noted that an additional 521 victims of sexual violence would be unable to access medical services. Even before the crisis, Haiti struggled to provide adequate health services for its female residents. Each year, more than 1,500 Haitian women die from childbirth or pregnancy-related complications. Additionally, only 3% of rape victims receive the necessary treatment within 72 hours of the incident.
Lending a Voice and Hand to the Silenced
In early May 2024, the U.N. held a press conference to highlight recent developments in Haiti concerning its female residents. The panel of experts expressed concerns about the insufficient aid provided to Haitian women. Additionally, it criticized the Haitian government for undermining state institutions designed to serve the most vulnerable populations. The experts also revealed that the government’s failure to effectively address corruption has made it complicit in gang violence and activities. A panelist emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “No one should be forced to choose between their safety and their ability to provide for themselves and their families, attend school, access health care and basic services, including sexual and reproductive care.”
The UNFPA has also spoken out for the cause, demanding additional funding. Since the crisis began, the organization has supported three hospitals in Port-au-Prince that provide maternal health services. Additionally, the UNFPA has supplied 13 health centers in the country’s capital and neighboring regions with necessary items, including rape kits.
The U.N. Women has contributed its share of aid by partnering with Rapha International. Together, they have provided emergency aid to female survivors of sexual violence, including counseling, medical assistance, economic support and refuge. The two organizations have also developed an online platform that allows victims of sexual violence to seek medical and psychosocial assistance anonymously. Since its launch, more than 2,000 women have used the system. Additionally, it has enabled approximately 230 women to access hygiene kits or food supplies.
Taking Matters into Her Own Hands
Despite the grim political state in Haiti, the women continue to demonstrate strength and resilience. Many have united and now identify themselves as “peace mediators.” This newfound hope stems from the creation of the project “Fanm Djamn Pou Lape.” The project focuses on empowering women and encourages their participation in peacebuilding efforts.
Since its inception in 2022, 97 women from various metropolitan areas around Port-au-Prince have committed to resolving conflicts within their communities. The project has successfully developed safe havens and brought together victims of gang-related violence. It aims to build and strengthen communities by focusing on collective memories. Matienge, a young woman and member of the project, explains, “By encouraging collective remembrance of past experiences, we have fostered a shared understanding of events, promoting reconciliation and building both individual and community strength.”
Looking Ahead
The humanitarian crisis in Haiti continues to severely impact women and girls. It exacerbates their vulnerability to violence and limits access to essential services. The U.N. and various organizations are calling for urgent action and increased aid to support these affected populations. Initiatives like “Fanm Djamn Pou Lape” demonstrate the resilience and determination of Haitian women. They play a crucial role in peacebuilding and community strengthening amid ongoing challenges.
– Yasmine Nowroozi
Photo: Flickr