In 2024, the population of Lagos state, Nigeria, reached 16,536,018, marking an increase of 590,106 people over the previous year. This number reflects a 3.7% annual growth rate. The process of urbanization in Lagos, significantly increases the disparity between the wealthy and impoverished residents. While some individuals have benefitted from Lagos’ booming economy and accumulated considerable wealth, a large portion of the population live in inadequate conditions in squatter settlements like Makoko. Unfortunately, issues such as overcrowding, lack of basic amenities and poor living conditions affect these slums.
The Struggles of Slum Dwellers in Makoko
Makoko, a prominent slum in Lagos, stands on stilts above the Lagos lagoon, highlighting its residents’ precarious living situation. Most individuals living in Makoko are employed in the informal economy, earning as little as $1.25 per day, insufficient to cover their basic needs. This extreme poverty perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage and limits opportunities for economic mobility among the residents of Makoko and other similar slums in Lagos.
The Borgen Project spoke with an individual who wishes to remain anonymous for privacy reasons. The young lady, living in one of the slums in Lagos with her three children, stated, “I make nothing less than N2500 a day.” Currently, N2500 is equivalent to $1.86. She further mentioned that she only uses the money to make sure her kids have something to eat. She says, “Every day is a struggle to survive, with no end in sight to our suffering.” Living in the slums traps them in a cycle of poverty and despair.
Urban Challenges: Poverty and Infrastructure
Urbanization, urban poverty and slums are closely linked and present significant challenges for both developed and developing countries. Nigeria, like other developing nations, faces these ongoing challenges, which have a more pronounced impact due to limited resources and rapid population growth in urban areas. Efforts to address these ongoing issues require comprehensive strategies that prioritize sustainable urban development, poverty reduction and job creation initiatives.
Over the past 50 years, rural-urban migration has been the primary driving factor of population growth in Lagos. This is primarily due to the notable advancements in social and economic development, which have fueled uncontrolled population expansion in these urban areas. This rapid growth has led to various challenges, such as strain on existing infrastructure, environmental deterioration, traffic congestion, lack of adequate housing and an increase in crime rates in Nigerian major cities.
Urban poverty drastically undermines urban sustainability in Nigeria, as the poor in cities face social exclusion, unemployment, homelessness, unpaid work, environmental risks and poor health. These hardships drive the proliferation of slums, squatters’ settlements and deteriorating housing, which are becoming permanent fixtures in Nigeria’s major cities.
The Lagos State Urban Development Policy
The Lagos State Urban Development Policy (LSUDP) is a comprehensive and holistic approach to guiding sustainable urban development in Lagos State, Nigeria. The policy is rooted in the recognition of the rapid urbanization and population growth that Lagos State, which addresses significant challenges in infrastructure, housing, transportation and social services
The LSUDP addresses the ongoing challenges by providing a long-term vision and strategic direction for developing Lagos State over the next three decades (2022-2052). The policy outlines key objectives and strategies that promote inclusive growth and development, reduce poverty and inequality, enhance residents’ quality of life and ensure sustainable resource use.
One of the core principles of the LSUDP is to create inclusive cities where all residents, regardless of their socio-economic status, can access basic services, opportunities for economic advancement, and a high quality of life. This includes policies to promote affordable housing, improve access to health care and education, enhance transportation infrastructure and protect the environment.
Furthermore, the LSUDP emphasizes the importance of sound socio-economic foundations, which are essential for sustainable development. This involves fostering economic growth, attracting investments, creating job opportunities and supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. By laying down this strong foundation, the LSUDP aims to ensure that urban development in Lagos State is sustainable, equitable and beneficial for all residents.
The LSUDP represents a strategic roadmap for the future development of Lagos State, with a focus on creating livable, inclusive and prosperous cities that can meet the needs of current and future generations.
Moving Forward
The Lagos State Urban Development Policy promises to transform urban living conditions by addressing critical infrastructure needs and reducing inequality. By prioritizing sustainable growth and inclusive policies, Lagos is poised to enhance the quality of life for all its residents. These ongoing initiatives could help break the cycle of poverty and create a more equitable urban environment in Nigeria’s bustling metropolis.
– Oyinkansola Adewumi
Oyinkansola is based in Denver, CO, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.
Photo: Unsplash
5 Ways Cell Phones Transform Fishing in the Pacific Islands
Access to Market Information
Facilitating access to market information is one of the most pivotal avenues through which phone coverage enhances fishing in the Pacific Islands. This assertion is strongly supported by Robert Jensen’s seminal research paper “The Digital Provide.” Jensen’s study, conducted in the densely populated fishing region of Kerala, India, revealed that with the adoption of cell phones, approximately one-third of fishermen expanded their market reach beyond their local catchment area.
This expansion coincided with a significant reduction in fish wastage, plummeting from 8% to 0%. The change was caused by newfound access to real-time market data afforded by mobile phones, enabling fishermen to stay abreast of supply and demand dynamics in nearby markets. Consequently, Jensen’s study underscored a tangible increase in fishermen’s profits, catalyzed by expanding cell phone coverage.
These findings suggest that similar benefits could accrue in the Pacific Islands, where increased cell phone access could enhance food production, expand economic opportunities in fishing and reduce food poverty. By leveraging existing infrastructure, such as the Western Pacific Fisheries Information Network Data Portal, fishermen can explore new markets, augmenting overall productivity and mitigating financial poverty and food insecurity.
Communication with Buyers
The expansion of cell phone access equips fishermen with a direct and streamlined communication channel to engage with individual buyers. Multiple studies underscore the significance of digital marketing in fish sales, highlighting its cost-effectiveness in reaching a broader array of potential consumers. Moreover, fostering personal connections with clients significantly enhances customer satisfaction and drives referrals. Through regular communication via cell phone with consumers, fishermen can broaden their network, facilitating waste reduction and boosting income. Consequently, this enhanced financial capacity enables investment in modern fishing equipment, thereby further optimizing operations and catalyzing economic growth and poverty reduction.
Weather Monitoring
Fishing, particularly in economically disadvantaged nations, poses significant risks due to unpredictable weather patterns and tidal fluctuations, with an estimated 100,000 fishermen losing their lives annually at sea. The expansion of cell phone coverage presents an opportunity to substantially diminish this staggering toll, primarily by granting access to real-time weather updates. This access notably reduces the likelihood of fishermen encountering perilous sailing conditions. For instance, the National Disaster Management Office of Vanuatu has pioneered an emergency SMS system to notify fishermen about impending natural disasters – a cost-effective, low-tech solution that profoundly enhances safety at sea. Moreover, temperature directly influences fish behavior and productivity.
Cell phone coverage grants fishermen access to both long-term climate forecasts and short-term weather trends, empowering them to adapt by acquiring suitable equipment for changing conditions or relocating to other catchment areas with higher yields. As a result, fishing in the Pacific Islands transforms into a safer, more profitable industry, fostering increased food production and incomes.
Access to Financial Services
Fishermen in rural or remote islands frequently encounter challenges accessing banking services, which are crucial for obtaining loans to initiate or expand fishing operations. The expansion of cell phone coverage facilitates access to online banking and microfinance institutions, offering avenues for business expansion with minimal collateral requirements. Notably, in China, microfinance initiatives within the aquaculture sector have demonstrated efficacy in poverty alleviation while also proving profitable for the firms involved. Additionally, in Haiti, mobile phone expansion resulted in a 30% increase in people gaining access to financial institutions. Extrapolating from this data, it is reasonable to anticipate similar benefits for Pacific island communities with expanded mobile phone coverage.
Government Oversight and Compliance
Illegal fishing in the Pacific accounted for the illicit harvesting of nearly 200,000 tons of tuna, valued at more than $300 million, between 2017 and 2019. Such alarming trends transcend species boundaries, jeopardizing the survival of marine populations, intensifying food insecurity and undermining the efforts of licensed purveyors. However, with the advent of mobile internet connectivity, surveillance and communication with governmental authorities are streamlined, empowering fishermen to report suspicious activities effectively.
The tangible benefits of cell phone coverage in combatting illegal fishing have already been observed in the Solomon Islands. By curbing overfishing and unsustainable practices, cell phones play a consequential role in safeguarding fishing productivity for future generations, thereby ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry. This proactive approach not only mitigates poverty and food insecurity concerns but also fosters a more resilient and prosperous fishing sector.
Ongoing Initiatives
Despite persistently low mobile subscriber penetration among Pacific Islanders, projections indicate a rapid increase, with an estimated 50% adoption by 2030. However, this rate still falls significantly below the global average of 73%. To improve penetration rates among fishermen in the region, concerted efforts from local policymakers and international investors could be crucial. Initiatives such as the Pacific Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership (DCCP) by USAID aim to enhance internet connectivity throughout Oceania. USAID-funded mobile applications, such as Hapi Fis and Hapi Pipol! (Happy Fish, Happy People!) in the Solomon Islands, provide fishermen and communities with real-time fishery management information and solutions.
Looking Ahead
The potential for mobile technology to transform the fishing industry in the Pacific Islands is vast and promising. By increasing access to market information, enhancing safety with weather updates and improving financial services, mobile phones could significantly uplift the economic status of fishermen and their communities. As coverage expands, these technologies are poised to make a profound impact on reducing poverty and increasing food security across the region.
– Matthew Candau
Photo: Flickr
Urbanization in Lagos: Impacting Poverty in Nigeria
The Struggles of Slum Dwellers in Makoko
Makoko, a prominent slum in Lagos, stands on stilts above the Lagos lagoon, highlighting its residents’ precarious living situation. Most individuals living in Makoko are employed in the informal economy, earning as little as $1.25 per day, insufficient to cover their basic needs. This extreme poverty perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage and limits opportunities for economic mobility among the residents of Makoko and other similar slums in Lagos.
The Borgen Project spoke with an individual who wishes to remain anonymous for privacy reasons. The young lady, living in one of the slums in Lagos with her three children, stated, “I make nothing less than N2500 a day.” Currently, N2500 is equivalent to $1.86. She further mentioned that she only uses the money to make sure her kids have something to eat. She says, “Every day is a struggle to survive, with no end in sight to our suffering.” Living in the slums traps them in a cycle of poverty and despair.
Urban Challenges: Poverty and Infrastructure
Urbanization, urban poverty and slums are closely linked and present significant challenges for both developed and developing countries. Nigeria, like other developing nations, faces these ongoing challenges, which have a more pronounced impact due to limited resources and rapid population growth in urban areas. Efforts to address these ongoing issues require comprehensive strategies that prioritize sustainable urban development, poverty reduction and job creation initiatives.
Over the past 50 years, rural-urban migration has been the primary driving factor of population growth in Lagos. This is primarily due to the notable advancements in social and economic development, which have fueled uncontrolled population expansion in these urban areas. This rapid growth has led to various challenges, such as strain on existing infrastructure, environmental deterioration, traffic congestion, lack of adequate housing and an increase in crime rates in Nigerian major cities.
Urban poverty drastically undermines urban sustainability in Nigeria, as the poor in cities face social exclusion, unemployment, homelessness, unpaid work, environmental risks and poor health. These hardships drive the proliferation of slums, squatters’ settlements and deteriorating housing, which are becoming permanent fixtures in Nigeria’s major cities.
The Lagos State Urban Development Policy
The Lagos State Urban Development Policy (LSUDP) is a comprehensive and holistic approach to guiding sustainable urban development in Lagos State, Nigeria. The policy is rooted in the recognition of the rapid urbanization and population growth that Lagos State, which addresses significant challenges in infrastructure, housing, transportation and social services
The LSUDP addresses the ongoing challenges by providing a long-term vision and strategic direction for developing Lagos State over the next three decades (2022-2052). The policy outlines key objectives and strategies that promote inclusive growth and development, reduce poverty and inequality, enhance residents’ quality of life and ensure sustainable resource use.
One of the core principles of the LSUDP is to create inclusive cities where all residents, regardless of their socio-economic status, can access basic services, opportunities for economic advancement, and a high quality of life. This includes policies to promote affordable housing, improve access to health care and education, enhance transportation infrastructure and protect the environment.
Furthermore, the LSUDP emphasizes the importance of sound socio-economic foundations, which are essential for sustainable development. This involves fostering economic growth, attracting investments, creating job opportunities and supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. By laying down this strong foundation, the LSUDP aims to ensure that urban development in Lagos State is sustainable, equitable and beneficial for all residents.
The LSUDP represents a strategic roadmap for the future development of Lagos State, with a focus on creating livable, inclusive and prosperous cities that can meet the needs of current and future generations.
Moving Forward
The Lagos State Urban Development Policy promises to transform urban living conditions by addressing critical infrastructure needs and reducing inequality. By prioritizing sustainable growth and inclusive policies, Lagos is poised to enhance the quality of life for all its residents. These ongoing initiatives could help break the cycle of poverty and create a more equitable urban environment in Nigeria’s bustling metropolis.
– Oyinkansola Adewumi
Photo: Unsplash
Empowering Youth Leadership in Africa
Challenges in Low-Income African Countries
The median age of Africa’s leaders is approximately 63 years old. This age disparity underrepresents Africa’s youth population. According to Brookings, 80 million young Africans live in extreme poverty and face concerns of insufficient economic opportunities and deteriorating education systems, especially in rural areas. There are also high levels of gender inequality for young women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Young women handle the majority of household tasks such as childcare, cooking, securing water and more. This results in lower employment rates than their male counterparts. This often prevents them from obtaining an education or securing paid employment. According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), the inability of young people to secure employment, get an education or receive training, can result in present and future limitations.
Youth Leadership
By providing opportunities for youth to actively participate in decision-making processes, it can help them feel included in their governments. The United Nations (U.N.) Under-Secretary-General, Rosemary DiCarlo, stresses that there must be more support and investments in youth as “Investing in youth is investing in peace.” She also stressed the importance of acknowleding young people’s voices and perspectives in leadership positions.
Authorities could prioritize and promote education by actively eliminating barriers, especially for women. Harmful social norms and stereotypes, such as the expectation for women to remain at home and exclusively fulfill caregiving roles, as well as the perception that women are only suited for specific professions (nurses and teachers) restrict their potential. A lack of education and training can also limit job options.
Three Initiatives Empowering Youth Leadership
Looking Forward
The empowerment of Africa’s youth through education, leadership and advocacy initiatives holds promise for transformative change. These programs not only cultivate young leaders but also ensure their voices play a vital role in shaping the future. With sustained support and expanded opportunities, there is hope that Africa’s young population can drive progress and innovation across the continent.
– Gabrielle Schwartz
Photo: Flickr
India’s Journey: Emerging as a Global Economic Powerhouse
India’s Growing Middle Class
The middle class in every country plays a pivotal role in shaping its economic outlook. India’s middle class is the fastest-growing demographic group in India, as it has witnessed a significant growth rate of 6.3% annually from 1995 to 2021.
Currently, the middle class makes up 31% of the population and projections indicate that this percentage will increase to 38% by 2031 and to 60% by 2047. The increase in the middle class has been one of the determining factors behind India’s growing success as a global economic powerhouse, as it leads to an increment in consumption and human capital for innovation.
IT Services and Digital Transformation
India’s IT services and digital transformation have propelled its position as a major player globally. India’s technology industry is a powerhouse driving the country’s global economy, job market and overall growth. In the fiscal year 2022, its revenue surpassed $200 billion. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated India’s digital progress, leading to a surge in internet users and a shift toward online services, including education and food delivery. As a result, India’s digital economy, comprising online businesses and services, is projected to reach a worth of $1 trillion by 2030.
Digital transformation is important for big companies and also smaller ones. Businesses are realizing they need to embrace technology to survive and grow. India is exploring exciting possibilities, like using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve internet access and digital services for everyone, even in rural areas. It is investing in innovations like AI to solve big challenges. While it is still early, the potential is huge for transforming India’s society and global economy for the better.
India’s Agricultural Landscape
The agriculture sector, a vital component of India’s economy, contributes significantly to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and employment. In the past years, it has experienced robust growth, accounting for 18.8% of the Gross Value Added (GVA) in 2021-22. Growth in allied sectors like livestock, dairying and fisheries has been the primary driver of this expansion.
Indian agriculture is now consumption-driven rather than population-driven, with farmers displaying diverse skills and small farms serving multiple functions. India ranks fourth globally in terms of the total value of agricultural production. Additionally, it is the second-largest food producer by calorie content, trailing only behind China.
India’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
Over the past decade, India has experienced robust growth in its domestic market. It has attracted additional foreign direct investment (FDI) and focused on establishing foundational elements for sustainable economic development. Notably, India has advanced in global rankings for innovation and ease of doing business, indicating a favorable environment for further economic expansion.
In FY 2021-22, India saw a significant surge in annual FDI inflows, reaching $84,835 billion, surpassing the previous year by $2.87 billion. FDI equity inflows in the manufacturing sector increased by 76% compared to the previous fiscal year, totaling $21.34 billion. During FY 2022 (April-December), total FDI inflows in India amounted to $55.27 billion, with FDI equity inflows totaling $36.74 billion. Key countries contributing to FDI equity inflows included Singapore, the United States (U.S.), Mauritius, the Netherlands and Switzerland. The top sectors attracting FDI equity inflows in FY 2021-22 were computer software and hardware, services, the automobile industry, trading and construction activities.
Conclusion
In the past two decades, India has made remarkable strides in reducing extreme poverty. Between 2011 and 2019 it has halved the population living on below $2.15 per person per day. India aims to achieve high middle-income status by 2047.
According to the World Bank, for India to achieve this goal, it would need to focus on growth-oriented reforms and the expansion of quality job opportunities that match the influx of labor market entrants. Additionally, addressing gaps in economic participation, including increasing female workforce participation, is imperative to its global economic outlook.
– Teniola Yusuf
Photo: Pexels
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