According to World Vision, a staggering 9.2% of the global population lives in extreme poverty, facing daily struggles for necessities. Yet amid this stark reality, there emerges a beacon of hope: passionate individuals who refuse to accept the status quo. Driven by a deep sense of empathy and urgency, these individuals have taken it upon themselves to initiate ripple effects of change, sparking movements that resonate across continents by establishing impactful charities fighting global poverty.
In this exploration of grassroots activism and compassion, we highlight three remarkable small charities fighting global poverty. These organizations not only exemplify the power of one person’s determination but also serve as tangible manifestations of the collective desire to alleviate poverty and injustice on a global scale.
Concern Worldwide
Founded by John and Kay O’Loughlin Kennedy in 1968, Concern Worldwide emerged from the heart of Ireland during a tumultuous period known as the Troubles. Despite the challenges in their own homeland, the couple was deeply moved by the crisis unfolding in Biafra and felt compelled to take action. Over the years, Concern has grown into a formidable force for good, reaching an astounding 36 million people globally with its humanitarian efforts in 2022.
Operating in 26 countries, primarily in Africa and the Middle East, Concern’s impact resonates across continents. Its dedication to alleviating suffering and addressing the root causes of poverty is evident in its latest endeavor in Sierra Leone, where it established a pioneering program aimed at strengthening food systems to combat nutritional insecurity. Through its tireless work and unwavering commitment, Concern Worldwide continues to be a beacon of hope for millions around the world.
Green Shoots Foundation
Jean-Marc Debricon established the Green Shoots Foundation in October 2010. The charity began its journey with a focus on microfinance, a tool described by Habitat for Humanity as vital in providing financial services to socially excluded populations. Over the years, the organization has expanded its vision, evolving into a beacon of hope for impoverished communities across Asia. With a multifaceted approach encompassing education, medical aid and economic empowerment, Green Shoots is dedicated to alleviating poverty at its roots.
The Green Shoots Foundation is present in seven countries across the region. From providing nearly 7,000 hours of training for health care professionals in Myanmar to empowering 5,500 students through its Food and Agriculture program in the Philippines and Cambodia, Green Shoots Foundation is sowing seeds of change and fostering sustainable development in some of Asia’s most vulnerable communities.
World Cow
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Vermont, USA, World Cow stands as a testament to the power of art and altruism. Founded by D.J. Barry, this organization is on a mission to spread a message of unity encapsulated in its poignant slogan, “We’re all spots on the same cow.” In an interview with The Borgen Project, Barry noted that his inspiration stemmed from his deep love for street art and the serene beauty of Vermont, culminating in the creation of the iconic image of a Holstein cow adorned with the world map as its spots.
What began in 2015 as “Cow For A Cause,” a humble initiative by Barry and his family to raise funds for local charities addressing poverty in Vermont, has blossomed into a global movement. World Cow’s reach now extends far beyond Vermont’s borders, with impactful projects in diverse regions such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, where it nurtures the art movement and in India, where it provides essential resources like food, stationery and clothing to those in need.
Barry’s impact is global and everlasting. He described World Cow as “not something that can just go away because you see tattoos of it or these murals that are lasting for decades. It’s being printed everywhere and I think that the herd story, even long after I’m gone, will continue to inspire and grow, so I’m leaving that mark everywhere.” By fostering the arts in vulnerable communities, World Cow provides inspiration, enrichment and motivation for people suffering from the multifaceted dimensions of poverty. Through this innovative blend of art and activism, World Cow continues to sow seeds of hope and solidarity across continents.
Final Remark
The collective efforts of small charities fighting global poverty serve as a testament to the power of grassroots initiatives and individual determination. Despite limited resources, these organizations have managed to create significant impacts, reaching vulnerable populations and addressing systemic issues at the local and global levels. Through innovative approaches, unwavering dedication and a deep commitment to social justice, they have brought hope and tangible change to countless lives.
These efforts are working. Since 1990 the percentage of people living in poverty has declined from more than 50% to around 35%. Finally, as we celebrate their achievements, it becomes clear that the fight against poverty is not insurmountable and that every contribution, no matter how small, plays a vital role in building a more equitable world.
– Lauren Mckenna
Lauren is based in Manchester, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.
Photo: Unsplash
Zimbabwe’s New Currency: A New Start?
Zimbabwe’s Economic Situation
The 2023 elections, which saw President Emmerson Mnangagwa get reelected, largely happened under the sign of economic concerns plaguing the country. The foregone rule of Mugabe left the country in dire financial circumstances. Among other problems, high inflation, corruption and a suspension of aid from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as part of sanctions have yielded a cutthroat economic situation.
Although real gross domestic growth (GDP) reached 5.5% in 2023, this number is expected to fall to 3.3% in 2024 due to the effects of an El Nino induced drought and the general macroeconomic instability. However, the country’s economic foundations are considered decent as several sectors, such as agriculture and mineral production, remain locally and globally competitive. Yet, structural economic challenges will have to be tackled head-on to fulfill Zimbabwe’s economic potential truly.
Zimbabwe and Poverty
The decades of economic instability have stunted the country’s ability to fight poverty. As of 2023, it’s estimated that 42% of the population still lives in extreme poverty, with a quarter of the population being food insecure. With certain economists claiming the country’s unemployment rate is as high as 85%, much of the burden for the slow progress in diminishing poverty rates falls upon the country’s economic situation.
Zimbabwe’s New Currency and Poverty
Finance Minister Ncube announced the creation of the ZiG (Zim Gold) as part of a series of measures that sought to restore economic stability to the country. Since its election, the government has increased taxes on products such as sugar to repay some of the debt that has caused much of the country’s structural problems.
The new currency, indexed on the country’s gold reserves and precious minerals, would be less volatile than its predecessor. Indeed, backed by hard value items, this would prevent the currency from losing its worth. If successful, the new currency could help restore the country’s economy, where currently 85% of transactions are recorded in the United States (U.S. dollars). The government’s main objective is to regain strength and trust in a national currency as a path to leave the U.S. Dollar.
Suffering from high exchange rates, confidence in a national currency could lend itself to a better overall context for small and private businesses if restored. Zimbabwe’s new currency and poverty both rely upon stability and forthcoming measures.
Looking Ahead
The currency debuted and Zimbabweans were asked to exchange their remaining Zimbabwean Dollars for the ZiG in early April. Since then, mixed reports have come out. The general mistrust of the population regarding the historically chaotic management of the country’s economic institution leads many to remain keen on prioritizing the U.S. Dollar in most exchanges.
However, the ZiG does stay at a much lower exchange rate than its predecessor, the U.S. dollar. The choice of backing up the currency with hard assets still yields questions as economists wonder if the country’s gold and mineral reserves are large enough to back a currency. Whether this new approach will bear its fruits for Zimbabwe’s new currency and poverty alleviation requires close monitoring in the future.
– Felix Stephens
Photo: Flickr
Investing in Women to Eradicate Gendered Poverty
Education and Economic Participation
Gendered poverty manifests in various forms, disproportionately affecting women and girls across the globe. Millions of girls are unable to attend school, especially in conflict-affected areas like Afghanistan. Globally in 2023, up to 129 million girls and young women could have been out of school, with an estimated 110 million projected to remain out of school by 2030, the U.N. Women reports. The fact that 32.1% of young women aged 15 to 24 were not in education, employment, or training (NEET) globally in 2022 concludes that women face systemic exploitation and oppression, impacting their access to education and opportunities.
Unpaid Labor and Wage Gap
For example – in a developing country like India, the disparity in unpaid labor is glaring, with women dedicating an average of 352 minutes daily to domestic chores compared to men’s 51.8 minutes. Despite its seeming insignificance to casual observers, the fact that nearly half of the female population, amidst a 1.3 billion-strong nation, goes unaccounted for in the annual GDP raises significant concerns.
Closing the gender wage gap is not just about fairness; it is also a critical step toward reducing poverty among working women, particularly single mothers. Studies consistently demonstrate that bridging this gap would lead to lower poverty rates for women across all states and contribute to greater economic security for women and their families. Ensuring equal pay for equal work promotes gender equality and uplifts communities, promoting economic resilience.
Impact Through Action
Despite the pressing need, a mere 4% of bilateral aid goes towards gender equality and women’s empowerment. Bridging the gap to achieve gender equality by 2030 requires an estimated annual investment of $360 billion, according to the U.N. Women.
International initiatives are driving tangible change in communities worldwide, amplifying the voices of women and girls and dismantling barriers to their empowerment. Through targeted programs and projects, they are actively working by providing financial resources, enhancing access to economic opportunities, and fostering an enabling environment for their participation in decision-making processes.
Fighting Gendered Poverty
Kazakhstan’s Commissioner for Children’s Rights, Dinara Zakiyeva, remarked on the imperativeness of legislative efforts to protect children’s rights, including bills aimed at combating domestic violence and bullying By providing accessible and affordable childcare options, the project empowers women economically too.
During 2023, Kazakhstan expanded childcare subsidies for both employed and unemployed mothers from 1 to 1.5 years and raised social benefits for individuals with disabilities by 14.5%. This enhanced support mechanism benefited nearly 700,000 parents throughout the year.
In Senegal, Mali and Niger, women are challenging stereotypes and emerging as successful entrepreneurs in the renewable energy sector with support from Plan International. The Economic and Social Development of Women through Renewable Energies in the Sahel (DESFERS) project empowers more than 21,000 women to harness opportunities in the renewable energy field, particularly solar power, to establish various small businesses. By addressing social, economic and cultural inequalities that hinder women’s economic participation, DESFERS aims to create avenues for women’s economic empowerment.
As part of this movement, the Stepping Stone Grassroots Women group, affiliated with the Huairou Commission, is actively addressing gendered poverty by empowering women traders and advocating for changes to protect women’s rights and dignity, the U.N. Women reports. Through their project, 16 female traders have been supported in establishing women-only fishponds, challenging traditional power dynamics and enhancing women’s economic independence. The group seeks to amplify women’s voices, address gender-based violence, and promote gender equality in all spheres of life.
– Malaikah Niyazi
Photo: Unsplash
Understanding Elderly Poverty in South Africa
The Ageing Index
The rise in the proportion of elderly individuals within the population, referred to as population ageing has become one of the most pertinent issues of the 21st century, affecting nations globally.
The Ageing Index denotes the ratio of individuals aged 60 years and above per 100 individuals less than the age of 15 within a given population. Thus, a higher index signifies a larger proportion of elderly people within a population.
The ageing index in South Africa increased from 30 in 2017, to 33 in 2022, a clear signal of the problem, according to Statistics South Africa. It also reported that in 2022, more than 5 million people were 60 or older. This means that around 9.2% of South Africa’s population comprises the elderly.
Financial Vulnerability
Statistically, one-quarter of all older people could be chronically poor. In addition to this, the University of Natal found that Africans make up almost 90% of chronically poor elderly. This poses a huge threat to the safety and well-being of the elderly population in South Africa. This vulnerability stems from various factors, including inadequate pensions, limited employment opportunities and the burden of supporting extended families.
Root Causes
The elderly in South Africa face a wide range of challenges. Having spent the majority of their lives under an apartheid system, South Africans older than 50 spent their working years under employment restrictions. Thus, one of the main causes of elderly poverty is unemployment. Highly competitive labor markets, without work opportunities for those with poor training and education, serve as a huge hindrance to older workers. Further, limited social protection is another factor that exacerbates elderly poverty in South Africa. The state old age pension system is the only policy in place, however, it is not completely effective due to extended families exploiting the pension, and bureaucratic hurdles. Thus, this policy is unable to help the elderly meet their basic needs, especially in light of rising inflation.
Efforts Towards Alleviation
Efforts to alleviate elderly poverty in South Africa involve various government policies, social programs and initiatives from non-governmental organizations.
The South African government provides social grants to vulnerable groups, including the elderly. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) administered The Old Age Pension in 1928, providing financial assistance to elderly citizens who meet certain criteria. By 1958, the percentage of old age people receiving the grant had risen to 60%.
Government and non-profit organizations run elderly care facilities that provide housing, health care and social support to seniors in need. These facilities aim to improve the quality of life for elderly individuals who may be experiencing poverty. These are in the form of – Retirement villages, Residential Care facilities, Communal living and Abbeyfield homes.
Many community organizations run meal delivery programs that provide nutritious meals to elderly individuals who may have difficulty preparing food themselves due to physical limitations or financial constraints. For example, the Meals on Wheels Association of South Africa (MOWASA) delivers meals to the homes of elderly citizens across the country. Doctor Denis Baird founded it in 1964, and its national program currently comprises more than 700 service points.
Financial Literacy and Empowerment Programs
Some community organizations offer financial literacy workshops and empowerment programs specifically focusing on elderly individuals to help them manage their finances, access available benefits and resources and plan for their future. These programs aim to enhance the economic security and independence of elderly citizens. The Ageing with Dignity (AWD) initiative started in 2009 and provides financial literacy training and resources to elderly individuals in underserved communities. The primary aim is to prevent loss of dignity due to health issues in old age, mainly stemming from the feeling that one is a burden to the family. Under AWD, anybody above the age of 60 years in the Dakulguda cluster of 15 villages can choose to join the club meant for them, by paying an annual subscription of Rs 10. In the AWD program, there are currently 636 members, which is almost the entire elderly population of the program villages.
– Naysa Seth
Photo: Flickr
The New Innovative Meningitis Vaccine in Nigeria
This achievement in Nigeria aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) “Defeating Meningitis by 2030: A Global Road Map.” This strategy aims to eradicate meningitis outbreaks, reduce the mortality rate from the disease and improve the well-being of those recovering from meningitis.
Meningitis
Meningitis, a fatal illness, causes swelling of the membranes around the spine and brain. Various viruses, parasites and microbes can cause this disease. Bacterial meningitis, the most severe form, can be fatal within 24 hours of infection. It currently poses a significant threat to global health. Approximately one in six individuals who contract bacterial meningitis die and one in five survivors sustain a permanent disability after treatment.
Meningitis Challenge in Nigeria
Sub-Saharan Africa is described as the African Meningitis Belt, as this area is most prone to meningitis. Approximately 30,000 diagnoses are documented in the region annually.
Nigeria, located in the African Meningitis Belt, is highly susceptible to meningitis. Reports indicate that between Oct. 1, 2023 and March 11, 2024, there were 1,742 suspected meningitis cases in Nigeria, resulting in 153 deaths and 101 confirmed cases of the disease.
Introduction of the Men5CV Vaccine
Nigeria has become the first country to implement the Men5CV vaccine to combat meningitis, effectively protecting against the five meningococcal bacteria types—A, C, W, Y and X. This vaccine is a significant improvement over its predecessor, which only offered protection against strain A.
The WHO is assisting Nigeria with the rollout of the Men5CV vaccine for meningitis, including training health providers. The organization anticipates that this vaccine will significantly reduce the rate of meningitis diagnoses and support efforts to eventually eliminate the disease, especially in countries within the African Meningitis Belt. Projections suggest extensive advertising campaigns for the Men5CV vaccine throughout the African Meningitis Belt by 2025.
The Men5CV vaccine could help Nigerians avoid falling into poverty. Treating meningitis can cost a family three to four months of income, potentially pushing them into poverty due to the financial burden. Additionally, long-term effects of meningitis, such as deafness, can make it challenging to secure employment. Therefore, the Men5CV vaccine might reduce the economic impact of treating meningitis.
Optimism For The Future
In response to Nigeria’s significant progress, world leaders will convene at a global conference in Paris in April 2024. They celebrated Nigeria’s advancements and discussed future challenges. The conference will also provide an opportunity for other world leaders to commit to accelerating efforts to eradicate meningitis as a global issue by 2030.
The introduction of the Men5CV vaccine in Nigeria marks a pivotal advance toward eradicating meningitis globally. Dr. Nanthalile Mugala, PATH’s Chief of Africa Region, stated, “The introduction of MenFive [the “Men5CV vaccine”] in Nigeria heralds a transformative era in the fight against meningococcal meningitis in Africa. Building on the legacy of previous vaccination efforts, this milestone reflects over a decade of unwavering, innovative partnerships. The promise of MenFive [the “Men5CV vaccine”] lies not just in its immediate impact but in the countless lives it stands to protect in the years to come, moving us closer to a future free from the threat of this disease.”
– James McAlinden
Photo: Flickr
Food Self-Sufficiency and Food Insecurity in Japan
Japan’s Low Food Self-Sufficiency Rate
Food self-sufficiency means a country produces enough food to feed its entire population without needing to import food from abroad. Japan’s food self-sufficiency rate stands at only 38% on a calorie basis, indicating that less than half of the calories needed to feed the entire Japanese population are produced within the country. In contrast, Canada boasts a calorie-based self-sufficiency rate of more than 200%, while the United States (U.S.) and Australia have rates exceeding 100%, highlighting Japan’s shortcoming in this area.
Impact of Natural Disasters
Several factors contribute to Japan’s lack of food self-sufficiency. One of the most significant is the series of natural disasters that have struck the country in recent years, including crop failures and droughts. These events have led to a steady decline in overall self-sufficiency rates.
Economic Competition
Japan has long imported staples like wheat and soybeans, primarily from the U.S. and China. As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, countries that previously relied on Ukraine and Russia for wheat are seeking alternative sources. Meanwhile, other Asia-Pacific nations, including China, are expanding their economies. This competition for resources could lead Japan to be outbid, potentially increasing food insecurity if these trends persist.
Food Security vs. Nutritional Adequacy
Currently, Japan maintains one of the highest food security rates globally, with only 3.4% of its population experiencing food insecurity. However, Japan’s poverty rate is relatively high compared to other developed countries, standing at 15.7%. A significant portion of this demographic includes elderly Japanese citizens.
Although Japan imports sufficient food, the nutritional value often does not meet requirements, leaving many, particularly those in marginalized communities, without adequate nutrition. Vulnerable populations in Japan, who lack access to supermarkets and imported fruits and vegetables, are more susceptible to inadequate food supplies.
Government Initiatives to Boost Food Self-Sufficiency
In 2022, the government introduced a new framework aimed at boosting domestic production of key food products like wheat and soybeans. Additionally, the Japanese government has distributed food guides in schools to educate young people about nutrition and the benefits of eating seasonally. Emphasizing seasonality ensures that the Japanese diet relies primarily on locally produced foods. This approach increases the proportion of calories consumed in Japan that come from domestic sources.
Future Directions in Food Security
Japan’s commitment to enhancing its domestic agricultural production is a promising step toward greater food self-sufficiency. By investing in local farming, prioritizing seasonal eating and educating the public about nutrition, Japan can reduce its reliance on imported goods and strengthen its food security. These efforts are crucial not only for economic stability but also for ensuring the nutritional well-being of all its citizens.
– Adrita Quabili
Photo: Flickr
Brewing a Better Future
Bature Brewery
Bature Brewery is a Nigerian-based craft brewery specializing in creating unique brews using local ingredients and traditional brewing techniques. Its most famous brew, the Black Gold Stout, which won the African Beer Cup in 2019, utilizes Nigerian coffee as a main ingredient. This Internationally recognized stout is just the beginning of Bature’s brewing lineup of beloved brews, all produced with local ingredients and designed by local artists. This commitment to relying on locals while reaching international markets is key to creating a strong brand.
Bature is not allowing success to go to its head and instead of resting on its laurels, it is experimenting and extending its purview. All of these products and successes indicate the spirit of African craft brewing, which is that keeping true to local culture is a key building block for these companies.
Senator Keg Beer
Another example of the local ingenuity of these brewers is the Senator Keg beer, which has been a popular staple of Kenyan beer culture for more than a decade. This brew is an inexpensive alternative to more dangerous alcoholic beverages. Senator Keg is brewed by Kenya Breweries using local ingredients and techniques.
This emphasis on maintaining strong local roots is also seen in the outreach done using the beer. Many local farms used to produce the beer are helmed or hire disabled farmers. This was a deliberate effort by the brewery to instigate a physical and psychological change in how disabled workers are treated.
SABMiller’s Innovative Use of Local Resources
Using local resources, be it an underutilized workforce or crop, is at the forefront of many businesses that strive to make a difference. SABMiller, a South African international beer distributor and brewer has found a new way to use local ingredients. Cassava is a long root vegetable similar to sweet potato, creating rich, starchy flour.
This is one of Africa’s most widely grown crops, but it is rarely seen anywhere else; SABMiller is looking to change that. Its new brew, Impala Lager, is made using cassava as a new means to increase the exportation of this widely grown crop to markets that would have ignored it, ultimately pulling African farmers out of poverty.
Final Remark
These companies and initiatives are examples of the desire to expand African beer production and craft breweries. This goal would not only create dozens of new and delicious beers for people from all over to enjoy, but it would also lead to increased exportation of local African ingredients, therefore, pulling vulnerable farmers in the continent out of poverty.
– Charles McFadden
Photo: Unsplash
N.C. State Research Addressing Global Health and Sanitation
Global WaSH in Zambia
In 2017, the Global WaSH team from N.C. State introduced a more sanitary and efficient method for removing human waste from latrines in Zambia, called the Flexcrevator. This device has developed from several prototypes, the original of which N.C. State alumnus Tate Rogers invented in 2011. Rogers later founded the Triangle Environmental Health Initiative.
Nearly two billion people worldwide use pit latrines, exposing those who manually remove waste and trash from these latrines to dangerous pathogens. Mechanized methods for removing raw sewage are often costly and ineffective as they easily clog. In Zambia, however, the introduction of the flexcrevator has revolutionized this process. This vacuum-like device efficiently removes waste along with debris such as plastic bags, bottles and hair. Waste is vacuumed into a drum via a hose and an attached trash excluder pushes trash aside during the waste pumping process, making the process safer and cleaner.
Global WaSH has received funding and support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for its initiatives in Zambia. Additionally, the team collaborated with a German development agency to test prototypes. It has established field testing sites across the African continent.
The Man Behind the Mission
Dr. Francis de los Reyes, a professor of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering at N.C. State leads the Global WaSH Cluster. He has published more than 130 peer-reviewed papers detailing N.C. State’s research contributions to global health and sanitation. He has also educated both faculty and students about the significance of improving sanitation in underserved communities already burdened by poverty.
Dr. Reyes and his team earned recognition for their flexcrevator technology, receiving the RELX Group Environmental Challenge Award in 2018 and the Patents for Humanity Award in 2020. The Global WaSH program at N.C. State prioritizes sustainability and environmental research, actively addressing global health and sanitation through faculty and student collaboration. “I see the cluster as continuing to lead in education, research and extension in this field and making an impact directly and indirectly to the lives of millions who are underserved,” Reyes stated.
Looking Forward
The innovative efforts of N.C. State’s Global WaSH program is poised to enhance health and sanitation for millions in underserved areas around the world. Moreover, with continued support and development, technologies like the Flexcrevator promise to revolutionize waste management and improve public health in vulnerable communities.
– Jacob Buckner
Photo: Unsplash
Brazil’s Sound: Samba Music and Social Justice
A Brief History of Samba Music
Samba Music originates from drum patterns transported across the Atlantic by enslaved people taken from their homeland to work on the Brazilian plantations. Originally, the word Samba is thought to derive from the Kimbundu term “Semba” loosely translatable as “invitation to dance” or designating the informal parties held by slaves in Rio’s rural areas. In the early 20th century, following the abolition of slavery in 1888, Samba grew in popularity and enriched its tradition through exposure to other genres of popular music also brought to Brazil by immigration. German polka or Cuban Habanera brought song structure and lyrics to the rhythmic form leading to an early style of Samba popular among Brazil’s aristocracy, pairing slower tempos with melancholic and romantic lyrics.
However, it was during the ’50s in the favelas that Samba took on its most popular shape. In these poor urban areas, faster rhythms were oriented toward communal events like the Carnival, where bands of musicians would rehearse all year round to perform at the event. During the 50s, Brazil saw its music export grow considerably, with the likes of Gilberto and Jobin popularising Bossa Nova in cooperation with American jazz musicians. With the now world-renowned fame of the genre, urban populations have incorporated other styles of music into Samba, such as jungle drum patterns. Its strong association with the Carnival and urban popular culture pairs samba music and social justice deep within its roots.
Samba Music and Social Justice
As a style of music popular at its chore, the popularity of Samba intertwined its development with social justice struggles in the country. In the ’30s, during the dictatorship of General Getulio, Samba music offered a rallying crowd where protesters could mask socially engaged lyrics within the music and avoid censorship. This trend continued during the military dictatorship of the ’60s and ’70s. Carnivals offered moments of reversals of social structures, allowing a release for much of the grievances built out of social inequality and income disparity.
The music also grew as a tool for affirmation and protestation against racial injustices plaguing the country. The 1988 Carnival theme “One Hundred Years of Freedom: Reality or Illusion” asked burning questions amid the celebration of the 100 years of slavery’s abolition. The harsh conditions in urban slums were highlighted, pegging the question of true social evolution since the abolition of slavery.
Samba Music and Social Justice Today
Today, much of Brazil’s poverty remains urban. The United Nations (U.N.) reports that 72% of the country’s poor live in urban areas, with rates of informal settlements climbing as high as 22.15% in Rio de Janeiro and 54.47% in Belèm. Those tough circumstances are further reinforced by high rates of criminality in poor urban areas and high rates of inequalities across the country; Brazil clocks in as one of the most unequal countries in the world. Samba music in these underprivileged areas offers moments of community cohesion and peace.
Different institutions, such as the Renaissance Club in Rio de Janeiro, became a stronghold for social justice protests and community-led actions. Upholding, at its root, both the Afro-Brazilian roots of the music style and the historically underprivileged positions occupied in society as part of the same fight. Amid the COVID-19 crisis and the high death toll that struck poor urban communities hard, the Renaissance Club was a place in which the grievances of the community could be expressed through music and raise voices of social equality across race and economic backgrounds. The Club shows that samba music and social justice are still interlinked both by their heritage and current issues.
– Felix Stephens
Photo: Flickr
Improving Access to Electricity in Liberia
The Work of SEforALL
SEforALL was established by the former United Nations (U.N.) Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2011. It is an important organization that creates multifaceted approaches to improving access to African countries, tailoring it to each country’s specific needs. This means that the charity also aims to improve the energy sector of other African countries, such as Nigeria and Zimbabwe. In the case of Liberia, which has “limited electricity generation,” the organization’s strategy to increase access to electricity revolves around utilizing renewable energy sources, such as hydro biomass and solar energy.
These plans are projected to have positive knock-on effects, benefit individuals by making day-to-day tasks easier and providing access to sanitary and more convenient home appliances. In addition, electricity in Liberia will have positive implications for businesses that manufacture exportable materials. For instance, industries with access to electricity in Liberia will allow them to make goods faster, positively affecting the economy and workers.
Sustainability
SEforALL highlights the importance of sustainability in its public statement (as well as its name), emphasizing the importance of improving Africa’s energy sector while acknowledging environmental considerations. Central to the efforts of SEforALL is its mission to provide specialist support, expertise and technology to “accelerate action on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7.” Adequate electricity generation cultivates a higher standard of living for Liberian individuals and the NGO is committed to achieving this sustainably.
This is primarily done by utilizing renewable sources instead of exploiting damaging non-renewable sources because “there is unequivocally no sustainable future in fossil fuel-based power generation.” This is because fossil fuels are enormous contributors to climate change. Liberia is already vulnerable to the adverse effects of global warming due to the country’s “high dependence on climate change sensitive sectors, such as agriculture, fisheries, mining and forestry.”
Recording Positive Changes
Research has shown that Liberian land possesses natural energy sources, such as hydro biomass, which needs to be more effectively harvested. Therefore, the efforts of SEforAll, which plans to improve access to electricity in Liberia and aims for “electricity production to reach 5000 GWh by 2030,” are creating better lives in West Africa. This is because the organization acknowledges the need for electricity in Liberia to meet the population’s needs, especially in the digital age, which is driven by technology and powered by electricity.
– Amelie Bunce
Photo: Flickr
Charities Fighting Global Poverty That You Need To Know About
In this exploration of grassroots activism and compassion, we highlight three remarkable small charities fighting global poverty. These organizations not only exemplify the power of one person’s determination but also serve as tangible manifestations of the collective desire to alleviate poverty and injustice on a global scale.
Concern Worldwide
Founded by John and Kay O’Loughlin Kennedy in 1968, Concern Worldwide emerged from the heart of Ireland during a tumultuous period known as the Troubles. Despite the challenges in their own homeland, the couple was deeply moved by the crisis unfolding in Biafra and felt compelled to take action. Over the years, Concern has grown into a formidable force for good, reaching an astounding 36 million people globally with its humanitarian efforts in 2022.
Operating in 26 countries, primarily in Africa and the Middle East, Concern’s impact resonates across continents. Its dedication to alleviating suffering and addressing the root causes of poverty is evident in its latest endeavor in Sierra Leone, where it established a pioneering program aimed at strengthening food systems to combat nutritional insecurity. Through its tireless work and unwavering commitment, Concern Worldwide continues to be a beacon of hope for millions around the world.
Green Shoots Foundation
Jean-Marc Debricon established the Green Shoots Foundation in October 2010. The charity began its journey with a focus on microfinance, a tool described by Habitat for Humanity as vital in providing financial services to socially excluded populations. Over the years, the organization has expanded its vision, evolving into a beacon of hope for impoverished communities across Asia. With a multifaceted approach encompassing education, medical aid and economic empowerment, Green Shoots is dedicated to alleviating poverty at its roots.
The Green Shoots Foundation is present in seven countries across the region. From providing nearly 7,000 hours of training for health care professionals in Myanmar to empowering 5,500 students through its Food and Agriculture program in the Philippines and Cambodia, Green Shoots Foundation is sowing seeds of change and fostering sustainable development in some of Asia’s most vulnerable communities.
World Cow
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Vermont, USA, World Cow stands as a testament to the power of art and altruism. Founded by D.J. Barry, this organization is on a mission to spread a message of unity encapsulated in its poignant slogan, “We’re all spots on the same cow.” In an interview with The Borgen Project, Barry noted that his inspiration stemmed from his deep love for street art and the serene beauty of Vermont, culminating in the creation of the iconic image of a Holstein cow adorned with the world map as its spots.
What began in 2015 as “Cow For A Cause,” a humble initiative by Barry and his family to raise funds for local charities addressing poverty in Vermont, has blossomed into a global movement. World Cow’s reach now extends far beyond Vermont’s borders, with impactful projects in diverse regions such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, where it nurtures the art movement and in India, where it provides essential resources like food, stationery and clothing to those in need.
Barry’s impact is global and everlasting. He described World Cow as “not something that can just go away because you see tattoos of it or these murals that are lasting for decades. It’s being printed everywhere and I think that the herd story, even long after I’m gone, will continue to inspire and grow, so I’m leaving that mark everywhere.” By fostering the arts in vulnerable communities, World Cow provides inspiration, enrichment and motivation for people suffering from the multifaceted dimensions of poverty. Through this innovative blend of art and activism, World Cow continues to sow seeds of hope and solidarity across continents.
Final Remark
The collective efforts of small charities fighting global poverty serve as a testament to the power of grassroots initiatives and individual determination. Despite limited resources, these organizations have managed to create significant impacts, reaching vulnerable populations and addressing systemic issues at the local and global levels. Through innovative approaches, unwavering dedication and a deep commitment to social justice, they have brought hope and tangible change to countless lives.
These efforts are working. Since 1990 the percentage of people living in poverty has declined from more than 50% to around 35%. Finally, as we celebrate their achievements, it becomes clear that the fight against poverty is not insurmountable and that every contribution, no matter how small, plays a vital role in building a more equitable world.
– Lauren Mckenna
Photo: Unsplash