The Links Between Disability and Poverty in Poland

There exists a significant correlative link between disability and poverty in Poland. In 2021, the most severely disabled people in Poland faced a 33.5% risk of falling into poverty, which is double the poverty rate of the general Polish population, the European Semester 2020-2021 country fiche on disability in Poland reveals. In recent years, the government has offered benefits for the families of people with severe disabilities. However, activists argue that the benefits must be expanded to support the high costs of living in the nation.

Government Initiatives

In 2018, the Government of Poland launched a program called “Accessibility+,” which is set to last until 2025. The program allocated 23.2 billion zlotys to fund special schools and general welfare. It also established the Accessibility Council as “an advisory body to the Minister for Regional Development.” In theory, this council pushes for laws that mandate high accessibility standards in all areas of life, such as health care, public transportation and public institutions.

For example, public transportation services must provide tactile paving, braille maps and easy passage for wheelchair users. Accessibility+ is a significant achievement for the Polish disability movement because the first step of integrating those with disabilities into the economy is to ensure their safety in public. In addition, the government has introduced measures, such as the 2019 Solidarity Fund for Persons with Disabilities, to provide “social, professional or health support for persons with disabilities,” the government website says. All of these measures serve to address the link between disability and poverty in Poland.

Activist Protests in 2018 and 2023

Political Critique tells the story of Iwona Hartwich, the mother of 25-year-old Kuba who has cerebral palsy and is one of nearly 300,000 severely disabled persons in Poland who cannot live independently. Hartwich is a Civic Coalition opposition party member and a key organizer of protests demanding greater state care for those with disabilities. In 2018, she led demonstrators, mostly parents of disabled children, to occupy the Sejm (the lower house of the Parliament) for 38 days. In response to this demonstration, the government unveiled Accessibility+, the Solidarity Fund and other initiatives to help disabled people.

But, protesters and activists criticize the government initiatives in response to the 2018 protests as surface-level and insufficient. Hartwich notes that while the government allocated 33 billion zlotys to the Solidarity Fund, households with disabled people have received only 12 billion zlotys. In March 2023, demonstrators led by Hartwich again occupied the Sejm.

As of March 1, families of adults incapable of living independently due to severe disabilities received an allowance of 1,588.44 zlotys ($378.9) a month before tax, which is less than half the statutory minimum wage of 3,490 zlotys ($832.56). After tax, this allowance became 1,217 zlotys ($290.32). In light of record inflation and unemployment, this allowance amounts to what Hartwich has dubbed a “starvation pension.” To properly address the link between disability and poverty in Poland, protesters are calling for their disability benefits to increase to the level of Poland’s minimum wage. In addition to better benefits, demonstrators are fighting for the right to keep their benefits while employed. As it stands, the government denies allowances to employed caregivers.

New Government Proposals in 2023

In light of the recent grassroots campaigns concerning the relationship between disability and poverty in Poland, the government unveiled a set of proposals in 2023. This represents a “change in logic” in how it assists households with disabled family members. The proposals place a newfound emphasis on the autonomy of disabled adults by giving benefits specifically to them, not to their caregivers. This could cultivate independence as the adults could then use the money to pay for their own care instead of relying on their parents. This change of logic more closely aligns with the U.N.’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which Poland ratified in 2012 and which emphasizes the individual autonomy of people with disabilities.

The Power of the Polish Disability Movement

Grassroots activists lead the way in raising public awareness about the condition of people with disabilities. For example, the group Protest 2119 played a role in organizing the 2023 occupation of the Sejm. The number “2119” references the 2119 zlotys afforded to families per disabled child. The group’s Sejm demonstration forced the public to reevaluate not only the state’s treatment of disabled people but also its own ableist prejudices, which affect hiring and play a crucial role in the link between disability and poverty in Poland.

Campaigns raise international awareness as well. The U.N. Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) monitors countries’ implementation of the Convention. In response to the 2018 protests, the CRPD conducted an investigation of the Polish government’s treatment of people with disabilities. The committee reaffirmed the conclusion of grassroots campaigns that people with disabilities in Poland are “still not fully enjoying their human rights.” The committee did, however, commend Poland’s adoption of the 2018-2025 Accessibility+ program. Groups like the CRPD are instrumental in pressuring the Polish government to adhere to international disability rights standards.

What is Ahead?

Activists like Iwona Hartwich continue to advocate greater state care for those who cannot live independently. Each wave of demonstrations demands attention from the public, the international community and those with the power to implement social policy. With persistence and perseverance, the activists have seen success in improving the material conditions of people with disabilities.

– Eric Huang

Photo: Wikimedia

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Recent USAID Successes

USAID SuccessesThe United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the nation’s premier agency for delivering foreign aid. Its website says its mission is to promote “efforts to save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance and help people progress beyond assistance.” Although it is based in the United States (U.S.), the agency operates all around the world, providing humanitarian aid. As an organization that has been around for more than 60 years, it has involved itself in various undertakings and acts of service. The following are some recent USAID successes.

COVID-19 Pandemic

Due to the impact of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, people all over the world, especially those who live in poverty require assistance. The organization recognizes this, with one of the prominent recent USAID successes on its website being its COVID-19 response. The organization provided more than $10.6 billion in efforts to make the U.S. a global leader in the fight against the Coronavirus. After vaccines were released, the country also aimed to make a difference there. To that end, the organization distributed more than 682 million vaccines to 116 countries. This success was built on previous work. For example, in the U.S., it was the domestic American Rescue Plan that was put in place to deal with the pandemic. In fact, USAID had been dealing with pandemics for years, from Ebola to malaria.

Crisis in Sudan

In more recent news, USAID has been closely monitoring the ongoing political crisis in Sudan. The organization highlighted issues such as the continuing food crisis, lack of medical care and gender-based violence. Already the biggest provider of foreign aid to Sudan, the U.S. worked with USAID alongside other international partners to coordinate its response. In April 2023, USAID administrator Samantha Power announced that a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) was set up in Kenya, as well as a Response Management Team in Washington D.C. Operatives on the ground are providing food, water and maternal health care.

Earthquakes in Haiti

In 2021, a massive 7.2 earthquake struck Haiti, killing 2,200 people and leaving 600,000 in need of assistance. Responding swiftly, USAID mobilized a response team on the day of the earthquake. Despite the unpredictability of earthquakes, Haiti’s 2010 earthquake prepared the team for the worst possible outcomes. Search and Rescue workers were able to do immediate work assessing the damage. USAID led the way in international efforts to provide aid. One year later, it provided nearly $60 million in humanitarian assistance for people in the worst affected areas.

The War in Ukraine

During wartime, there is a need for people to stay connected, not just with loved ones, but with fellow citizens. Apart from USAID offering humanitarian aid, it is also working with contemporary social media. In 2020, Ukraine launched the Diia app, which gives ordinary citizens more of a voice in their government and promotes their businesses. The organization provided additional funding to improve the app and expand its services during the war. This turned out to be even more necessary after the Russian invasion, where Diia helped with sharing information about airstrikes.

USAID also credited the app, noting that half of Ukraine’s adult population has downloaded it. Ukraine would like to expand the app to countries in the global south, and Moldova has shown an interest. This is still a new program, with only $650,000 set aside to promote its development thus far. But based on the trends in Ukraine, it could do great things in politically unstable countries in the future.

Fighting Hardship

These recent USAID successes show the scope of the agency’s work in fighting hardship across the world. It works with many global organizations to deliver help to countries that are less fortunate. From its robust response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including vaccine distribution, to its swift assistance in crisis-stricken regions like Sudan and Haiti, USAID has demonstrated its commitment to saving lives and alleviating suffering. Additionally, its support for innovative initiatives like the Diia app in Ukraine showcases the agency’s dedication to fostering connectivity, empowerment and progress in politically unstable regions.

– Josh Sobchak
Photo: Flickr

Freedom of the Press: The Story of 4 Freed Journalists

Freedom of the PressThe work of journalists is vital in many societies. Unfortunately, journalists often put themselves at risk, even facing prosecution. The fact that reporters can face imprisonment for sharing information that authorities don’t want published underscores the necessity of their work. The lack of freedom of press continues to be a pressing issue, with 363 cases reported last year. On the bright side, however, there have been uplifting developments for freedom of the press, as journalists continue to push for freedom.

Roman Pratasevich’s Story

Roman Pratasevich, a journalist, reported on protests against the Belarusian government. This was considered a dictatorship despite the low poverty rate in the country. While covering the events, he used social media to share information. Following this, authorities diverted his plane and placed him under house arrest in 2021, charging him with 1500 offenses. Initially, he was sentenced to eight years in prison, but he was later pardoned and released.

Ali Latifi

Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, the situation has become perilous for reporters. More than 200 press freedom violations have been documented. Ali Latifi, a renowned Afghan-American journalist, was recently detained for meeting with the brother of Afghanistan’s former leader. He was imprisoned in Kabul but was released after one day, following negotiations. Advocacy groups for press freedom celebrated his release while emphasizing that his arrest should never have happened.

Olivier Dubois

In March, pro-freedom of the press groups achieved a major victory when journalist Olivier Dubois and NGO leader Jeffrey Woodke were freed in Mali. Woodke had been imprisoned since 2016 and Dubois since 2021, both held captive by religious extremists affiliated with al-Qaeda. Reporters Without Borders made Dubois’s release a top priority, especially since he is a French journalist. Large rallies and advertisements were organized in support of Dubois’s freedom, with the government of Niger playing a role in the release. U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken welcomed their freedom, prioritizing the release of political prisoners.

Siddique Kappan’s Case in India

In 2020, Indian Muslim journalist Siddique Kappan was arrested and his detainment involved various political factors, including his religion. He was traveling to report on the assault of a young Dalit woman. Dalits, who are traditionally from the lower class, face higher levels of poverty. While Kappan’s bail was granted by the courts, he remained imprisoned. In February, he was finally released after alleging torture and mistreatment during captivity. Despite the hardships he faced, Kappan remains determined to continue his work as a journalist.

Looking Ahead

Among these cases of freed journalists, a common theme emerges. Many of them were fighting against poverty and injustice in their societies. Although not all problems have been resolved, there are ongoing efforts that seek to address these issues.

– Josh Sobchak
Photo: Flickr

How Locally-Led Development Can Foster Inclusive Systems

Development theorists have debated the best methods to foster sustainable development since the advent of international development. The development industry is now recognizing that those it intends to help must lead the way and this is achievable through locally-led development.

The Importance of Locally-Led Development

Locally-led development recognizes that development is not a one-size-fits-all solution and acknowledges that the countries, cities and communities receiving foreign aid have unique needs, perspectives and expertise that groups must consider when designing and implementing development programs.

Through locally-led development, local actors such as communities, networks, governments, private organizations and individuals own the development process, creating programs that address their needs within their unique contexts.

International development actors such as foreign governments and development contractors take an advisory role, supporting the capacity and resources of local actors as they work to solve their development needs. Locally-led development plays an instrumental role in promoting sustainable development, particularly through its potential to promote inclusive political and economic systems.

Inclusive Systems

Inclusive systems are vital for the long-term growth of a country. Nations with inclusive political and economic institutions, where governments distribute power widely and people can participate in the political and economic process, tend to be more prosperous. In contrast, nations with extractive political and economic institutions, where power is concentrated in the hands of a few and most people face political and economic exclusion, tend to struggle with poverty and underdevelopment.

Inclusive systems prioritize the participation and representation of all members of society and ensure that everyone has a voice in decision-making processes that affect their lives and that governments design programs and policies to benefit the entire population, not just a privileged few. This is alongside prioritizing innovation, investment and economic growth. Ultimately, inclusive systems ensure that governments design policies and programs to benefit those who are most marginalized and disadvantaged.

According to the United Nations (U.N.), inclusive institutions are not the natural or inevitable outcome of economic development or technological progress but are the result of negotiation and internal political reform. The creation of inclusive institutions requires a broad-based coalition of citizens who are willing to challenge and dismantle extractive institutions that concentrate power.

Locally-led development is vital for foreign aid to work in building inclusive systems because it allows change to be led from within instead of being orchestrated by an outside force, a necessary aspect of constructing inclusive systems.

Making Locally-Led Development Work

USAID and other key donors have begun acknowledging the importance of locally-led development. The organization announced goals for localization, such as committing 25% of its budget by 2025 to local institutions taking part in development activities. Additionally, “50[%] of programming will place local communities in the lead by 2030,” according to USAID.

In addition, USAID has developed a locally-led development checklist that allows its missions and partners to gauge the amount of local adaption and development in their projects. Donors are also working with governments to build inclusive systems in foreign aid through direct cash transfers. Direct funding shifts the paradigm of international development projects, moving away from the traditional project life cycle where a government contractor goes into a country to accomplish a particular development objective over a selected amount of time.

Instead, funding is directly given to national governments to facilitate the delivery of inclusive services while development practitioners work with governments to manage the cash flow and protect against corruption through risk mitigation, monitoring and capacity building. A current USAID program using direct funding mechanisms has seen scalable success in Malawi.

Key Facets of Successful Locally-Led Development

  • Development must recognize the critical roles of civil society, community leaders and advocacy organizations while empowering governments as conveners and connectors. Without this step, inclusivity will not manifest.
  • Strengthen local and preexisting capacities to achieve their own missions versus restructuring them to become donor contractors or grantees.
  • Development agencies and country partners must align with common development objectives for which the local partners are accountable. This is achieved through co-designed work plans and risk mitigation plans that outline the main activities for funding and supporting local agencies.
  • Development partners are responsible for supporting and advising local partners, rather than executing work on their behalf.
  • Establish a shared understanding between the development agency and country counterparts regarding milestones and necessary resources. This roadmap may include indicators as triggers for payment milestones. Prior to implementation, both parties must agree on the potential investments and resources required to achieve each milestone.
  • To balance the power of national governments, the focus must move to involve building the capacity of local institutions such as community-based organizations, local government bodies and civil society organizations. These institutions can act as conduits for citizen participation in systems and provide channels for feedback and accountability.
  • Development initiatives must prioritize marginalized communities, including women, youth and minorities.
  • Place focus on local economies by promoting community entrepreneurship and local enterprise development. This can help create jobs and increase economic opportunities, which can, in turn, lead to greater participation in systems and decision-making processes.

A Look Ahead

Overall, inclusive systems can help promote pro-poor growth by ensuring that economic policies and programs benefit the entire population, especially the marginalized. Locally-led development plays a critical role in building inclusive systems by empowering local communities and marginalized groups and facilitating participation in the decision-making processes.

By putting funding in the hands of the communities that require aid, locally-led development can be the catapult for the formation of inclusive systems that promote sustainable long-term growth.

-Andrew Giganti

Photo: Flickr

The Housing Crisis in Hawaii

The tourism industry in Hawaii is successful and continues to grow as Hawaii is further globally marketed as an idyllic holiday destination. In 2019, before the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately 10 million tourists visited Hawaii. In 2021, the number of tourists visiting Hawaii remained at 6 million, despite ongoing travel restrictions.

Although Hawaii has reaped the economic benefits of tourism, there have been growing tensions surrounding the prominence of tourism. Hawaii’s native population has protested against increasing house prices and the environmental impact of Hawaii’s large tourism industry. The housing crisis in Hawaii has forced many people into poverty and even homelessness.

Poverty in Hawaii

The poverty level in Hawaii grew from 9% in 2018 to 15% in 2022. John Fink, the Aloha United Way CEO, stated in December 2022 that roughly 200,000 people in Hawaii were living in some degree of poverty. Due to growing financial insecurity, many Hawaiian families cannot afford basic necessities, such as housing and food. In terms of the most affected ethnic group, “Native Hawaiians [have] the highest poverty levels at 27%.” In 2022, nearly half of Hawaii’s youth population resided in households unable to afford basic life necessities.

The Cost of Residency In Hawaii

The housing crisis in Hawaii stems from rapid increases in housing prices over the last few years. The average price of a house in O’ahu, the third largest island in Hawaii, increased from $789,000 to $1.15 million between 2019 and 2022. The challenge of maintaining residency in Hawaii is further amplified by the fact that “out-of-state buyers, who routinely bid well above the listing price” purchase 25% of sold homes.

High house prices have disproportionately affected Kānaka Maoli, also referred to as Native Hawaiians. Many people who have lived in Hawaii for generations can no longer afford the cost of residency and have to move elsewhere. The Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA) and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) help to ease the impact of the housing crisis in Hawaii. The HPHA maintains 6,000 units that have an average rent of less than $400. This scheme is used to support low-income residents who cannot otherwise afford housing. The DHHL provides Native Hawaiians with 99-year leases at $1 a year: as of July 2022, 28,000 Hawaiians remained on the waiting list.

Hawaii’s Tourism Industry 

Hawaii’s tourism industry is one of the biggest in the world. However, the recent increase in tourism, including “tens of thousands of extra” visitors, has put pressure on the industry and caused residents and businesses to suffer. With 30 miles of beaches that “draw in up to 300,000 arrivals each month,” Maui experienced a water shortage in 2022.

The Council for Native Hawaii Advancement formulated a response to the tourism crisis in Hawaii. It pledged to spend $27 million on managing tourism over the next two-and-a-half years. The money will help the government track where tourists frequently go during their stay through a “Hawaii visitor smartphone app.” Hawaii’s government hopes to redirect visitors to new and less-frequented attractions, to assuage the strain on businesses and tourism.

Environmental Concerns 

The housing crisis in Hawaii has had an environmental impact on its wildlife and nature reserves. Significant investment into infrastructure, such as hotels and resorts on many of Hawaii’s islands, has drastically reduced the number of natural habitats left in Hawaii. With over 25,000 native species, Hawaii accounts for over 44% of the United States’ endangered animals. However, due to Hawaii’s farmland becoming less fertile over the past few decades, much of Hawaii’s wildlife has dwindled in number and become far less active. Additionally, many native Hawaiians have left the fishing industry because of decreased marine life on Hawaii’s shores.

Excessive construction on Hawaii’s land has also resulted in residents receiving foreclosure notices on their properties and being “forced off of their land as a result of a new golf course or resort being built.” Many Native Hawaiians are concerned about the natural beauty of their island being destroyed by excessive tourism. In May 2023, Hawaii’s government hoped to implement a tourist charge that required all visitors to pay a conservation fee of $50 if they visited Hawaii’s parks and nature trails. While the Hawaiian politicians involved have not yet passed the legislation, the implementation of the tourist fee looks increasingly likely.

Looking Ahead  

The housing crisis in Hawaii has worsened significantly in recent years as a result of Hawaii’s growing tourism industry. Rising house prices have resulted in many Hawaiians experiencing a declining standard of living. Residing in the country has become so expensive that people who are unable to afford basic necessities have to seek out subsidized living. Housing support schemes managed by the DHHL and HPHA help Native Hawaiians to maintain residency in their generational lands. However, high demand and a limited supply of available housing units challenge these schemes. But while it appears that there is a need for significant efforts to overcome the housing crisis in Hawaii, ongoing plans and initiatives show promising signs for the future.

– Jennifer Preece
Photo: Flickr

The Effect of Poverty on Mental Health in Costa Rica: Bridging the Gap

Mental Health in Costa RicaThe connection between poverty and mental health in Costa Rica perpetuates hardship for individuals. Mental, neurological, substance-use disorders and suicide cause 22% of all disability and 35% of all years lived with disability in Costa Rica. These trends necessitate the need to investigate the ways in which impoverished people’s mental health is affected in Costa Rica and to provide suggestions for resolving these issues.

Mental Health in Costa Rica

  1. Limited Access to Mental Health Services: Individuals living in poverty in Costa Rica meet a gross degree of obstruction in endeavoring to access mental health care. The World Health Organization reports that there is a critical lack of psychiatrists and psychologists in rural Costa Rica. Inadequate access to mental health care derails existing mental health problems. It discourages or disallows people from getting the help they need. This highlights the need for the government of Costa Rica to prioritize access to mental health care, especially in rural and remote communities. Telemedicine projects, upgrades to existing facilities and the recruitment of more mental health specialists represent potential necessary steps in this direction.
  2. Social Stigma and Discrimination: Mental health-related stigma and prejudice are pervasive in Costa Rican culture. Because of the country’s economic condition, people living in poverty frequently experience added stigma, and this leads to increasingly isolated conditions and a lack of necessary social support. People’s mental health problems stay unchecked and untreated because of this stigma. On the bright side, community-based organizations and support groups provide welcoming environments free from criticism where people can safely share their stories and receive help. A government-led initiative in Costa Rica, under the direction of the PAHO/WHO national office, promoted primary health care (PHC)-led, universally accessible recovery program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enhancing mental well-being, combating gender-based violence and providing comprehensive support for individuals with chronic health conditions are three key areas identified for targeted intervention through PHC, with a particular emphasis on underserved communities. This helped to alleviate social stigma towards mental illness and showed the government’s interest in reducing the burden of social stigma on those facing mental health difficulties.
  3. Financial Strain and Anxiety: People in Costa Rica who are already struggling financially experience a greater degree of stress and anxiety. Several factors counterbalanced the benefits of economic growth over the past decade. Income generation opportunities for less-educated workers eroded in virtually all sectors, population aging led to an increasing dependency ratio in many households and labor force participation rates of women continued to be among the lowest in Costa Rica. The contribution of labor to household income declined, especially in the poorest quintile, from over 70% in 2010 to about 55% in 2021, indicating a dramatic change. Inadequate housing, a lack of financial stability and restricted access to quality education and medical treatment all play a role in perpetuating the cycle of mental decay in Costa Rica. When adequate resources are afforded to expand access to high-quality education, health care and work, financial stress and anxiety may be alleviated among those living in poverty. Countries such as Canada are providing financial support to countries that need help in the creation of community-based organizations. The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) aids Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Honduras. It financially supports impactful, small-scale projects aligned with Global Affairs Canada’s priority areas. CFLI focuses on directing funding to local civil society organizations, NGOs and institutions, fostering human rights and inclusivity in communities.
  4. Lack of Social Support: Various socioeconomic variables contribute to the fact that people living in poverty often lack a solid support system. Fewer social connections means more isolation, pessimism and the possibility of mental health issues. Those in need of emotional support and direction may find it via community-based support networks, including mentoring programs, support groups and peer counseling. Establishing and sustaining these kinds of support networks requires close cooperation between government agencies, nonprofit groups and community leaders. A nationally accredited nonprofit group that has served a remote town in Costa Rica since 2005 has brought social support to underprivileged citizens in that area. CEPIA empowers underprivileged children, teens, families and adults in Guanacaste’s coastal communities through culture, education, employment, health and social cohesion programs. In addition, in 2015, President Luis Guillermo Solís initiated a poverty-reduction plan. It aimed to uplift 54,600 families from extreme poverty through various forms of assistance such as housing, food subsidies, health insurance, pensions, training and scholarships.
  5. Abuse of Substances: Poverty and drug abuse exacerbate the country’s already severe mental health crisis. Unfortunately, substance abuse may be both a cause and effect of economic hardship. It perpetuates a cycle that has a negative impact on mental health. As a result, Costa Rica currently implements drug demand reduction policies covering health promotion, prevention, intervention, treatment, rehabilitation and social integration. These efforts, in line with the Hemispheric Plan of Action on Drugs, aim to minimize the negative health and social impacts of substance abuse through comprehensive and balanced approaches.

Responses and Ongoing Efforts

Prominent organizations in Costa Rica, like the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation (CRHF) and the International Federation of the Red Cross, drive positive change. The CRHF tackles social issues creatively and affordably, promoting friendship, aid and resources across cultures and socioeconomic classes. The Red Cross aids Costa Rica in responding to crises, building resilience and addressing pressing humanitarian concerns. These organizations work to combat social and economic hardship and to support the basic needs of Costa Ricans.

Concluding Thoughts

Limited access to mental health services, discrimination, financial strain, lack of social support and substance abuse have an impact on mental health in Costa Rica. Although the problems still exist, progress is being made throughout the nation to address the situation. The government of Costa Rica has limited funding in regard to its National Mental Health Plan. However, several government initiatives have shown a positive side to mental health in the nation. Through sustained investment and economic growth, poverty rates dropped significantly, from 32% in 1991 to 18% in 2003. Additionally, during the same time frame, extreme poverty dropped from 12% to 5%. Ultimately, while there is still room for work and progress, the positive trends so far continue to have a real impact on the lives of the people of Costa Rica, signaling a healthier future for all.

– Valentina Ornelas
Photo: Flickr

Monumental vaccine to fight Typhoid Fever in Malawi

Typhoid Fever in Malawi In 2019, the Malawi Expanded Program on Immunization announced that 75% of children aged 12 to 23 months had received all eight basic vaccinations. However, the COVID-19 pandemic, which put a halt to progress in many areas of life, also affected vaccine delivery. Disruptions in the health system, diverted funding and focus, as well as misinformation around vaccines have threatened existing vaccine programs. But with the development of the highly effective typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) and the government’s plan for a huge vaccine drive, Malawi has renewed immunity hopes. And the reason for such hopes is that the cases of typhoid fever in Malawi could drop.

What is Typhoid Fever?

Typhoid fever is a life-threatening infection that spreads through contaminated food or water. In 2019, there were 9.2 million cases and 110,000 deaths worldwide due to the bacterium, Salmonella Typhi, which multiplies and spreads into the bloodstream once it has entered the body. It continues to be a public health problem in many parts of Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean, Western Pacific Regions and South-East Asia.

How Does It Affect Malawi?

Typhoid fever in Malawi is very common, with more than 440 cases per 100,000 people every year. Symptoms include stomach pain, fever, diarrhea or constipation and have severe consequences on the livelihood of the affected person. Although health care is free in Malawi, the loss of wages due to missing work means that many families go into debt and children who contract the infection miss weeks or even months of school. The treatment for typhoid also costs the government a significant amount more than other childhood illnesses.

Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV)

With the support of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, TyVAC and other organizations, Malawi has become the third African country to launch its typhoid conjugate vaccine campaign against typhoid fever in Malawi. From May 2023 onwards, the typhoid conjugate vaccine will become part of the national routine immunization program following an integrated vaccine campaign that also provides the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine. This huge, nationwide campaign comes at a critical time as the country aims to play “catch up” and give people, who may have previously missed out, access to life-changing vaccines.

During the pandemic, the government put on hold many key routine medical procedures meaning that the ambitious vaccine drive it proposed will be important in reaching underserved populations. The plan, over the course of one week, aims to vaccinate more than 9 million children (up to 15 years of age) and reduce the chance of any outbreaks of measles, rubella or typhoid fever in Malawi, according to Gavi. The typhoid conjugate vaccine is particularly effective as it only requires a single dose.

Why is This Important?

Drug-resistant strains of typhoid are often more complicated and expensive to treat and put additional strain on health systems. At a time when Malawi’s health system is already under pressure, the typhoid conjugate vaccine, which WHO approved in 2018, could transform issues surrounding typhoid fever in Malawi. It is the first typhoid vaccine that can be used for children younger than 2 years of age and may provide longer-lasting protection.

Urbanization and climate change are likely to increase the global burden of typhoid fever, according to WHO. The recent floods that have hit Malawi as part of Cyclone Freddy are just an example of this. The storms displaced over 500,000 people and the government declared a state of disaster in 14 districts. For those who have lost their homes, it is harder to access clean water, and multiple families sharing crowded spaces means that the spread of infections like typhoid fever will increase if people are not vaccinated.

The Future

Malawi has been at the forefront of promoting solutions to typhoid fever – it was the first African country to provide typhoid conjugate vaccine efficacy data and was part of a five-year global project to accelerate the introduction of the vaccine.

Malawi is only the third country in Africa to introduce the typhoid conjugate vaccine into routine immunization. A study conducted in 2021 in Blantyre, the capital of Malawi, proved the vaccine to be 84% effective and hopefully the government’s decision to include the typhoid conjugate vaccine in routine vaccinations will have similar implications around the continent. It is not only important for controlling typhoid disease itself but it could also help reduce the increasing international problem of antimicrobial resistance.

– Almaz Nerurkar
Photo: Flickr

How Art Is Expanding Ghana’s Cultural Influence

Ghana's Cultural Influence
Ghana is a country where art thrives. Art in Ghana transcends borders, encompassing Afrobeats music enjoyed worldwide and captivating paintings that have garnered international recognition. Art in Ghana has expanded the West African nation’s cultural influence and impacted the Ghanaian population in myriad ways. Artists in Ghana create with hope and optimism, believing their creative output can offer them new and exciting opportunities. The Ghanaian population also benefits from Ghana’s expanding cultural influence, with increased funding and opportunities stimulating growth in struggling regions.

Music

Ghanaian music, particularly Afrobeats, has achieved success not only in Ghana but also globally. Sarkodie, a Ghanaian-born rapper, stands among the country’s most accomplished artists, with a fan base spanning the globe. 

Sarkodie has utilized his fame and influence for positivity through charitable work. In 2013, Sarkodie set up The Sarkodie Foundation, which aimed to help children living in poverty in Ghana. Additionally, he made charitable contributions in 2014 when he founded the Feed the Children campaign. Sarkodie’s success and charitable commitments show the impact art and culture can have on Ghana’s population.

Other accomplished Ghanaian musicians include R2bees (renowned across Africa and featured on Forbes’ top 13 African celebrities list in 2013) and KiDi, a young and promising Afrobeats singer who has also become a household name in Ghana. KiDi is signed to Lynx Entertainment, one of Africa’s leading record labels, and has won multiple awards in Ghana.

These successful artists expand Ghana’s cultural influence and inspire the next generation of music enthusiasts within the country. Many young people in Ghana have taken up music, often due to charitable efforts, offering them hope and opportunities to overcome their struggles.

Agape Volunteers is a prime example of a charity helping Ghanaian youth through music. Agape has several volunteer music teachers across Ghana, helping underprivileged children learn an instrument and achieve their full potential.

Charitable initiatives have also focused on addressing social issues like armed robbery and drug abuse by incorporating music. Solid Rock Association, through folk music, promotes “self-expression, teamwork and critical thinking,” providing opportunities for young people in Ghana aged 10-24 to directly impact their lives. The project has successfully trained 35 individuals in folk music and dance.

Art and Artists Helping Local Communities

Many successful artists and art organizations, with their unique styles and messages, have gotten their works into art galleries and the hands of art lovers from around the world. 

Alongside increased income and funding, Ghana’s reputation in the art world has inspired Ghanaian artists to contribute to their communities. Numerous inspiring projects have been established to foster development within local Ghanaian communities.

Attukwei Montana, a Ghanaian-born artist now based in Los Angeles, initiated the 360 Project. This community-based art project utilizes contemporary art as a means to drive community engagement. The 360 Project has made significant strides in uplifting local Ghanaian communities.

Dream Big Ghana is another organization utilizing arts and culture to help Ghanaian communities. Dream Big Ghana funds art programs at Denyigba Lorlor NGO, which offers the talented youth of Ghana mentorship through the realm of art. It has also set up “Meet Me There Weekender” – a musical festival in Dzita where local artists can showcase their talents in an event that brings the whole community together.

Charities also play a crucial role in preserving Ghana’s art and culture. The Nubuke Foundation, located in Accra, serves as a hub for preserving, documenting and promoting contemporary arts and culture. Through art exhibitions and galleries, the foundation ensures recognition and appreciation for the art produced by Ghanaians. The Nubuke Foundation plays a vital role in showcasing talented artists, thereby expanding Ghana’s cultural influence.

Art as a Catalyst for Change

From music to paintings and everything in between, Ghanaian art is making an impact both inside and outside the country’s borders. The expansion of Ghana’s cultural influence is largely due to its thriving art scene. And ongoing trends suggest that art has become a tool for positive change, funding local community projects, providing opportunities for Ghana’s youth and fostering unity through events like “Meet Me There Weekender.” Overall, Ghana’s art scene shows how arts and culture can be channeled into transformative endeavors. 

– Max Steventon
Photo: Flickr

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USAID Programs in Morocco

USAID Programs in MoroccoMorocco is an economic powerhouse in Africa and according to the African Development Bank, it ranks as the second-largest economy on the continent. Interestingly, the country hasn’t always had such successes. Before the year 2000, Morocco scored poorly on many social, economic, environmental and institutional indicators. Life expectancy was below average, unemployment was high and only 32% of people had access to proper sanitation services.

Morocco has seen positive growth in all aspects of society, due partly to help from international institutions like the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The role of USAID programs in Morocco is evident in the achievements and improvements of the country’s education system. The number of out-of-school children went from more than 200,000 to just above 14,000.  

The following is a brief look into a number of USAID initiatives that focus on providing accessible, quality education in Morocco.

Enhanced Educational Attainment for Children at the Primary Level

According to USAID, ensuring lasting and quality education is vital for eradicating global poverty. It is important to provide a strong education as soon as possible in order to maintain steady attendance throughout primary and high school.

Morocco’s Ministry of Education (MOE) is working closely with one of the USAID programs that focuses on strengthening reading comprehension levels in primary school. The goal of this program is to improve overall education and “learning achievement.”

This initiative had incredible success within just one year of the small pilot experiment, which USAID and the government later expanded into the National Program for Reading. According to USAID’s reports, nearly 700,000 primary students benefited from improved reading comprehension and language lessons.

Higher Education Partnership

Morocco once lacked educated teachers and educational staff. In recent times, however, the country has been working with the MOE to provide quality education and “pre-service training” to teachers and staff. The MOE is utilizing the Higher Education Partnership for Morocco (HEP-M) USAID program to start a five-year partnership. This program aims to assist the MOE by providing and building expertise in teacher training, helping develop an undergraduate program for future primary school teachers and enhancing overall higher-level education at Moroccan universities. Both USAID and the MOE are expecting sustainable and positive impacts within this five-year period, set to end by 2024.

Inclusive Education Teacher Training

USAID programs in Morocco have greatly improved the country’s education system, but it still faces accessibility issues for students with disabilities. These students have access to the same education as the rest of their peers, but don’t have the required accommodations for optimal learning. Students with disabilities tend to drop out of school around sixth grade, and this negatively impacts their “socio-economic well-being” in the long term.

USAID and the MOE are working together to improve access to education for deaf and hard-of-hearing children through adequate teacher training. The USAID program includes providing Moroccan Sign Language (MSL) training and certifications to teachers, training in deaf education and promoting deaf and hard-of-hearing education within communities.

Moroccan education has seen success with the USAID Program Improving Deaf Children’s Reading through Technology. This initiative went on from 2015 to 2018. MSL has earned recognition as a language and teachers and administrators have received the necessary training. In addition, deaf and hard-of-hearing students have received quality reading materials.

Looking Ahead

With the help of USAID programs in Morocco, the country increased the number of children in school and improved literacy and comprehension rates in both primary-aged and deaf and hard-of-hearing children. While there is still room for progress in closing the education gender gap, the country’s commitment to improving its education bodes positive signs for the future.

– Kathryn Kendrick

Photo: flickr

The Positive Impacts of Mobile Banking in Kenya

Mobile Banking in KenyaFor the past 18 years, mobile banking in Kenya has helped thousands of people gain control over their money while reducing the country’s poverty rates. The phone-based mobile money service named M-PESA, started by Vodafone in cooperation with Safaricom, has expanded financial inclusivity by allowing access to financial services for even the unbanked through the convenience of a mobile phone. According to the Vodafone website, “M-PESA offers a safe, fast and low-cost way to pay, receive, transfer and store money.” Through local M-PESA agents, individuals are able to withdraw, send or deposit cash, negating the need to visit a bank that may be located far away from a community.

More than Mobile Banking

One of the main benefits of M-PESA is that a bank account is not necessary for using its services. This is a significant advantage to impoverished people in rural, remote areas who cannot afford hefty bank fees, do not earn enough to warrant the opening of a bank account, do not have the formal documentation necessary to open a bank account or simply reside too far away from a bank, making bank services costly and inconvenient.

M-PESA transaction fees are low and M-PESA resolves the need for individuals to travel long distances with physical cash to give to another, which could also be potentially dangerous. With many M-PESA agents, typically local small businesses or vendors, situated across Kenya, individuals can easily transact whenever necessary.

M-PESA was officially launched in Kenya in 2005, and by 2016, Kenya had 40,000 M-PESA agents operating in the country and more than 20 million M-PESA users in a country of 47 million people at the time. A study published in 2016 by Georgetown economics professor Billy Jack, and a colleague at MIT, Tavneet Suri, highlights the impacts of M-PESA on poverty in Kenya. The researchers conclude that between 2008 and 2014, MPESA “increased per capita consumption levels and lifted 194,000 households, or 2% of Kenyan households, out of poverty.”

Statistics from the World Bank confirm the poverty reduction progress during this period. The percentage of Kenyans living under the poverty line dropped from 46.8% to 36.1% over a period of one decade ranging from 2005 to 2015. Kenya’s rural areas noted the most significant decrease as poverty declined from around 50% in 2006 to about 38.8% in 2016, marking a decrease greater than 10%.

Empowering Women

The study by Jack and Suri states, “The impacts, which are more pronounced for female-headed households, appear to be driven by changes in financial behavior — in particular, increased financial resilience and saving — and labor market outcomes, such as occupational choice, especially for women, who moved out of agriculture and into business.”

In the report, Suri mentions that the service helped about 185,000 female farmers move out of farming jobs and into business or retail, giving them a more secure income considering the volatility of the agricultural industry due to changing weather patterns.

Other Issues Impacting Kenya

Despite mobile banking in Kenya bringing poverty rates down, Kenya is currently grappling with the impact of severe droughts, and this is affecting the financial and food security of farming families.

A press release by the International Rescue Committee in February 2023 highlights that the current drought in Kenya has the potential to leave 5.3 million Kenyans facing acute food insecurity from March to June 2023. The report notes that 2.4 million livestock have died due to recent droughts, putting pastoralist families out of work and diminishing their food security.

A United States Agency for International Development (USAID) press release in February 2023 reports that the Horn of Africa has experienced a fifth failed rainy season and Kenya’s cumulative rainfall is now 70% lower than the country’s 30-year average. On top of previous aid measures, USAID intervened in February 2023 with a provision of more than $126 million in emergency food aid to cover the needs of about 1.3 million Kenyans in drought-affected areas.

People will receive food aid in the form of physical food items or cash-based assistance, depending on whether or not local markets are operational. Cash-based assistance will not only allow families to purchase food items according to their needs and preferences but will also help boost local economies as local vendors will see an increase in sales.

Looking Ahead

In spite of the challenges posed by drought and food insecurity, mobile banking in Kenya, particularly through the M-PESA service, has made significant strides in reducing poverty rates and empowering marginalized communities. By providing easy access to financial services and enabling secure transactions, M-PESA has helped lift thousands of households out of poverty and fostered financial resilience, particularly among women. As Kenya continues to tackle the impact of droughts, ongoing support from organizations like USAID will help alleviate food insecurity and further boost local economies through cash-based assistance programs.

– Samuel Kalantzis
Photo: Pixabay