Loofah-Inspired Hydrogel Could Improve Access to Safe Water

Globally, more than 2 billion people live in countries with severe water deficits, largely due to contamination of water supplies, insufficient management and a lack of adequate infrastructure. Frequently, many fall ill to oftentimes fatal water-transmitted diseases such as diarrhea, dysentery and Hepatitis A. Population growth increases water insecurity, and climate change disrupts weather patterns, causing an increase in unpredictable water availability. Fortunately, researchers have developed a porous, loofah-inspired hydrogel that could sustainably purify water in a cost-effective way.

Initial Development

Previously developed thermoresponsive hydrogels absorbed and then released purified water. However, they had a slow response rate and were not effective in cloudy weather, providing an insufficient volume of water for a person’s daily needs. With increased release rates, the newly innovated loofah-inspired hydrogel improves on this. Researchers used a mixture of water and a chemical called ethylene glycol to induce polymerization, creating a ‘PNIPAm hydrogel’ with interconnected pores inspired by the porous structure of a loofah. They coated the inner pores of the hydrogel with the chemicals polydopamine (PDA) and poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (PSMBA), which provide the hydrogel with the ability to remove pollutants. The porous structure filters out microplastics, and the polydopamine traps contaminants such as dyes and metals. Furthermore, PSMBA creates a hydration layer that stops oils and microorganisms from being absorbed along with the water. When the hydrogel is cool, it can absorb water, but when warmed, it becomes hydrophobic and releases water. The hydrogel will only absorb water, not contaminants such as oil; therefore, it releases purified water.

Testing and Results

The porous, loofah-inspired hydrogel’s efficiency was tested with artificial light to replicate the solar energy of the sun. When heated, it “released 70% of its stored water in 10 minutes.” This improvement in response rate, four times faster than the closed-pore thermoresponsive hydrogels, means that this development could potentially meet a person’s daily water demand. Furthermore, it can work effectively even when a source of solar energy is not available. This is essential, as weather patterns may be unpredictable in areas of water deficit. Researchers proved the hydrogel’s effectiveness by testing under artificial light conditions, which replicated cloudy weather. It took about 20 minutes for the hydrogel to emit a similar amount of water to the volume released in sunny conditions. The hydrogel has also been tested on polluted samples containing “organic dyes, heavy metals, oil and microplastics.” These tests returned positive results, as the hydrogel successfully purified the water, removing contaminants.

Looking Forward

The hydrogel technology looks to be a vital step toward providing access to clean water in areas experiencing water insecurity. Although still in development, it has enormous potential. Research continues to create new and improved versions, such as hydrogel that could kill waterborne bacteria by utilizing its antibacterial properties. This provides hope for a brighter future for those without the financial ability to access clean water.

– Isla Wright

Photo: Flickr

5 Facts About the Female-Led Oyster Sector in The Gambia

Although The Gambia has a small coastline of 80km, its fishing sector is responsible for roughly 12% of the country’s total GDP. In March 2022, the Minister of Fisheries announced that the fishing sector created at least 300,000 jobs in the country, emphasizing the sector’s potential to aid in poverty reduction and economic growth. The country’s waters are populated with diverse species of fish that are sourced throughout the year. However, oysters have become especially important for The Gambia’s social and economic development.

5 Facts About the Female-Led Oyster Sector in The Gambia

  1. Women run The Gambia’s oyster trade: Oyster fishing in The Gambia is a day-long process that involves collecting oysters from mangrove roots, preparing them on land and then transporting and selling them in the Gambian capital of Banjul. The TRY Oyster Women’s Association (TRY OWA) completely oversees oyster harvesting in the country’s Tanbi region. Approximately 500 Tanbi-area women belong to the TRY OWA, which was founded in 2007 by Fatou Janha Mboob, a Gambian social worker. A nonprofit collective, the organization works to improve the lives of The Gambia’s female oyster pickers by spearheading “environmental and social initiatives” and providing “training in financial management, food hygiene and water safety.”
  2. Increased flooding and The Gambia’s oyster trade: Climate change has contributed to increased flooding in The Gambia. Frequent flooding can lead to sewage entering the mangroves where the oysters are harvested. In turn, this can destroy the wetland ecosystem, damage the roots of mangrove plants and result in spoiled, unsaleable oysters. In an initiative to protect the wetland forests, the TRY OWA has partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to plant over 50,000 mangrove seedlings to counteract the effects of deforestation and extreme climate change. In 2012, the UNDP awarded Mboob the Equator Prize for her leadership in such initiatives.
  3. Marie Sambou’s award: In 2019, the Global Youth Innovation Network Gambia acknowledged the work of Marie Sambou, a Gambian oyster harvester, by granting her the Young Business Innovation of the Year award. The award included a gift of 35,000 dalasis, equivalent to about $580, which she pledged to spend on a new fiber boat for oyster fishing.
  4. Food insecurity: An estimated 80% or more of the world’s fish supplies have deteriorated due to overfishing and extreme population growth. As of 2021, The Gambia had experienced a 5%-8% increase in food insecurity. Severe droughts, flooding and misuse of natural resources have impacted fishing in The Gambia and contributed to the rise in food insecurity. Additionally, illegal fishing activities by bigger nations on Gambian waters are depleting the fish supplies that many Gambians rely on for sustenance and survival, thereby heightening the threat of poverty. For instance, TRY OWA oyster harvesters may make up to £30 on successful days. However, when tides are too high, they may not be able to harvest any oysters at all. A short 4-month harvesting season further limits economic opportunity, making income a “primary concern” and forcing many to “supplement their earnings with subsistence farming.”
  5. Support from FISH4ACP: An initiative of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), FISH4ACP works to improve the global fish value chain while promoting sustainable aquaculture. FISH4ACP and the Gambian government have partnered to expand the country’s mangrove oyster harvesting sector. The agreement aims to improve the lives of the sector’s women workers, increase local access to nutritious, low-cost food, implement improved production methods and advance sustainable development over the next decade. Furthermore, it incorporates pilot schemes for the development and sale of new products, like jewelry and animal feed, that will make practical use of oyster shell byproducts.

Looking Ahead

The oyster sector in The Gambia, led by a dedicated group of women, has emerged as a powerful force for social and economic development in the country. Through the efforts of organizations like the TRY OWA and partnerships with entities such as the United Nations Development Programme and FISH4ACP, there are signs of progress with regard to protecting the wetland ecosystem and enhancing the livelihoods of female oyster harvesters. By supporting the oyster sector, The Gambia is paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for its coastal communities.

– Jennifer Preece
Photo: Flickr

6 facts about water quality in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

water quality in the Democratic Republic of the CongoAs the second largest country in Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is home to around 95 million people as of 2021. Characterized by political instability and conflict, the land is rich in natural resources, but its people are amongst the poorest in the world. As most Congolese people make less than $2 a day, having access to safe bottled water is considered an “impossible luxury.” This highlights the need for efforts that aim to improve water quality in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Water Quality in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

  1. Only 52% of the DRC has access to basic water and even less (29%) have access to sanitation. Despite being home to over 50% of Africa’s water reserves, 33 million people across the country’s most rural areas still can’t access safe water. Moreover, 43% of under-5-year-old children in the DRC are facing chronic malnutrition.
  2. Reasons for low water quality in the DRC include conflict, displaced citizens, poor management, economic instability and governance constraints. For example, when displaced people arrive in host communities where there is already extremely restricted access to drinking water, it leaves further strains on the available resources. Also, the issue of bacterial contamination is a direct consequence of open defecation. Other causes include substandard sanitation systems and polluted surface water. In the DRC, there is no national monitoring of water systems and a restricted understanding of the issues caused by poor water quality. Economic progress has stagnated, inhibiting the government’s ability to invest in infrastructure maintenance. A hostile political environment has similarly prevented social accountability and the development of water and sanitation services, according to Global Waters.
  3. Poor water quality in the DRC has facilitated the spread of waterborne diseases. The lack of access to sanitary facilities and safe water makes it generally impossible to prevent most waterborne diseases. Conflicts also encourage population movements, thereby further worsening the disease problem. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) study found that since the war, most Congolese have not died because of violence but because of waterborne diseases such as malaria, diarrhea and malnutrition, according to The Water Project.
  4. Climate Change has had an impact on the water quality in the DRC. As one of “the most vulnerable countries in the world to the effects of climate change,” according to USAID, the DRC doesn’t have adequate equipment to deal with the consequences. For example, weather patterns are variable, and when the rainfall becomes more intense, the region becomes more susceptible to extreme floods, landslides and other disasters that affect the availability and quality of surface water. At the other end of the scale, extreme drought and longer dry seasons could become more common as climate change worsens. This could exacerbate poverty and create food insecurity as well as political instability, USAID reports.
  5. The DRC is particularly rich in natural resources and has vast agricultural land as well as “immense biodiversity.” Home to the second largest rainforest after the Amazon, the DRC is heavily dependent on its agriculture. But in 2020, the country lost 1.3 million hectares of forests, harmfully impacting the environment and reducing biodiversity across the region. Unfortunately, this threatened the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on agriculture.
  6. In 1998, the DRC joined “Africa’s First World War, in a conflict between seven African nations,” according to The Water Project. The reasons for this war included struggles over minerals, water and food. Not only was it a determining factor at the beginning of the war, but following the conflict, access to water became increasingly restricted. This was a consequence of the collapse of the DRC’s infrastructure during the fighting.

Ongoing Efforts

UNICEF, USAID and Join for Water are among the organizations doing great work to alleviate the consequences of water quality in the DRC. UNICEF is improving access to safe drinking water supplies as well as adequate sanitation facilities in schools and communities. It also created the national program, “Healthy School and Village” in the DRC which aims to stop the spread of waterborne diseases through safe water and hygiene education, according to its website.

According to its website, Join for Water is active across three provinces in the DRC: Ituri, Tshopo and Kwilu. Its focus is on rebuilding and maintaining drinking water infrastructure by working with local organizations to advocate for resource and river protection. It also works to protect agroforestry with farmers and ensure students receive environmental education in school.

USAID, alongside the U.S. government, has provided millions of liters of safe drinking water to the Congolese people, helping over 1 million people gain access to safe water and sanitation facilities, according to Global Waters.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to improve water quality in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are making a difference in the lives of millions of people. Organizations like UNICEF, Join for Water and USAID are working tirelessly to provide access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities in schools and communities. These initiatives not only combat waterborne diseases but also empower communities and promote environmental education. With ongoing support and collaboration, the DRC is moving closer to ensuring a brighter future where safe water becomes a reality for all its people.

– Bethan Marsden
 Photo: Flickr

Women’s Rights in the Bahamas

Women’s Rights in the BahamasFrom women’s suffrage efforts claiming the right to vote in 1961 to gaining independence in 1973, the Commonwealth of the Bahamas has a rich history of fighting for equality. However, despite the current progress, there are persistent political and legal barriers that currently threaten women’s rights in the Bahamas.

Disjoint in the Legal Framework Surrounding Sexual Offences

Sexual violence is endemic within the nation and necessitates legal redress. According to the Royal Bahamas Police, reporting of sexual offenses rose by 14% in 2022 with 204 cases. According to the report, 39% of the victims knew the perpetrator and all the suspects were men. With the understanding that there is a trend of gross underreporting when it comes to sexual offenses, this number could be much higher.

Sexual harassment laws pertain only to the workplace, with the language “solicits sexual favors” employed to encapsulate the meaning of sexual harassment. This means that inappropriate behavior such as sexually charged and/or obscene comments, continuous staring and unwanted physical contact in both the workplace and public spaces are not legally recognized explicitly as sexual harassment.

Additionally, although the intent of criminalizing sexual harassment in the workplace is to deter potential perpetrators, U.N. Women recommends making it a matter of civil law. The reasoning for this recommendation is that the victim has more say in the direction of the case for a civil claim.

For instance, a claimant does not have to provide a “clear and convincing burden of proof” like in a criminal court and instead only has to prove a preponderance of the evidence. The claimant does not have to be subjected to an evaluation of their sexual history (aside from the accused) like in a criminal trial. Such conditions would hopefully encourage more women to come forward and stand up to the violations of their rights.

Marital Rape

The law fails to recognize marital rape as a criminal offense unless the couple is in the process of separation/divorce. Most recently in 2022, there was an initiative to remove the phrase “who is not his spouse” from the definition of rape. However, there was constant pushback from opposing politicians and the powerful influence of the Christian Council.

Unfortunately, so long as this phrase remains in legislation, there could be thousands of Bahamian women who do not have the law protection if their husband rapes them and the damaging rhetoric that consent does not matter throughout marriage could endure.

Lack of Political Representation

A significant step toward advancing women’s rights in the Bahamas is addressing the lack of women in politics and highlighting the need for gender-sensitive policymaking. Whilst the country made history in 2021 with the election of seven women in the Progressive Liberal Party, accounting for 17% of seats in parliament, it is yet to meet the U.N.’s minimum standard of 30%.

One solution that Allicia Rolle, a gender specialist in the Department of Gender and Family Affairs proposed is the implementation of quotas as a temporary measure to promote gender mainstreaming in politics. This is to ensure that there are as many women as men in positions of power.

A Commitment to Action

In February 2022, Prime Minister Davis publicly acknowledged that the country needs to bring many of the domestic laws regarding gender equality “up to date” and that the Attorney General would be looking into “domestic legislation” to meet the need to address the prevalence of gender-based violence in the country. Additionally, the government’s effort involved considering long-term strategies including promoting civic engagement and education surrounding the topic. And while there has not been any concrete update on the implementation of such legislation or programs, this acknowledgment of responsibility toward promoting the advancement of women’s rights in the Bahamas offers signs of hope for change in the future.

– Lucy Gebbie
Photo: Flickr

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5 Organizations Ending Child Marriage in Pakistan

Child Marriage in PakistanIn most areas of Pakistan, the legal age for marriage is 16 years old. Yet, millions of children are a part of marriage contracts prior to reaching this age. Child marriage disproportionately affects Pakistani girls, with UNICEF estimating that in 2022, 4.6 million girls became brides before they reached 15.

Several factors cause child marriage in Pakistan, including patriarchal social norms and economic reasons. Poverty in the nation leads poorer families to marry off their daughters so that they no longer have to economically provide for them.

Child marriage has many negative repercussions for young girls, including an increased risk of being in an abusive marriage, falling pregnant before being physically prepared for childbirth and not being able to complete their studies. Fortunately, there are numerous charities operating to end child marriage in Pakistan.

5 Organizations Ending Child Marriage in Pakistan

  1. Blue Veins: Blue Veins is a charity based in Pakistan which is operating since 1999. Since its creation, its mission has been to better the lives of women, children and transgender people through social change. Ending child marriage in Pakistan is among the charity’s highest priorities. Through its Power to Girls campaign, it has worked to make this goal a reality. The campaign involves creating public awareness of the dangers and realities of child marriage and encouraging policymakers to develop legislation that will protect children from being coerced into marriage contracts before reaching the legal age.
  2. United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA): The UNFPA is an agency responsible for improving women’s reproductive health worldwide. Its work in Pakistan involves empowering women through developing health care and ending child marriage. The UNFPA collaborates with multiple organizations to safeguard children’s rights and support them against being pressured into underage marriage. It researches and advocates for protective legislation and it provides reproductive health guidance and services to girls across the nation. The agency also supports child brides in Pakistan who cannot exit their marriages by providing them with health care and reproductive education. Additionally, it offers counseling services to survivors of underage marriages to aid their mental well-being.
  3. Girls Not Brides: Girls Not Brides is an international NGO made up of more than 1,600 organizations that share the mutual goal of ending child marriage globally. Its work focuses on developing local change. For example, it holds interventions with local and religious leaders in rural communities in Pakistan to educate them on the negative impacts of child marriage on girls and to inspire them to put a stop to the practice within their communities. It also commits to equipping girls with the confidence to refuse marriage at a young age. Girls Not Brides has created safe space programs which provide girls with life skills and the chance to access economic independence through cash transfers.
  4. Save the Children: Founded in 1919, Save the Children is an international charity that aims to alleviate the struggles that children living in poverty face. This involves working to end child marriage in nations where the practice is commonplace, including Pakistan. Save the Children believes that the most effective way to end child marriage as a practice is to champion education for girls and equip them with life skills that will enable them to reject marriage offers at a young age.
  5. Bedari: Bedari is a Pakistan-based NGO that focuses on protecting women’s and children’s rights. Female Pakistani professionals who believed that women and girls living in abusive households lacked the support they needed to be able to escape founded the organization in 1991. The founders of Bedari aimed to create an organization dedicated to helping women in violent domestic situations. Since the organization’s inception, it has extended its work to preventing child marriage in Pakistan. Bedari partners with donors to carry out programs designed to put a stop to child marriage. For example, Bedari worked with the Commonwealth of Learning, Canada, to create the GIRLS Inspire project. This project operated in the Punjab region of Pakistan and aimed to raise awareness among communities about the negative impact of child marriage. The organization achieved this through theatre performances and education sessions for parents and local leaders to encourage them to eradicate the practice. It also offered self-growth sessions for girls to inspire them to stand up for their rights.

The Future

Child marriage in Pakistan remains an issue affecting millions of young girls. The consequences of underage marriage for girls include a deterioration of physical and mental health and a lack of economic and personal freedom. On the bright side, there are charities that publically highlight the dark reality of child marriage in Pakistan. And these organizations continue making efforts to put an end to the practice.

– Mohsina Alam
Photo: Flickr

How NetHope is Helping to Connect Rohingya Refugees

Rohingya RefugeesAs of 2023, roughly 1.27 million Rohingya people live as refugees or asylum seekers. Around 100,00 live in refugee camps within their native country of Myanmar while 900,000 are in camps in neighboring Bangladesh. Like many living in refugee camps, the quality of life for the Rohingya is extremely poor, with high rates of hunger and dehydration and limited access to health care and electricity. Amid the challenges, one organization, NetHope, continues working toward changing the situation by helping to connect Rohingya refugees to each other and the outside world.

The Current Situation

The Rohingya, an ethnic and religious minority, have long endured oppression in their native land of Myanmar. As early as 1978, the military perpetrated numerous atrocities against the Rohingya, including mass killings and arson, prompting the exodus of 200,000 individuals from the country. In 1982, the government formally revoked the Rohingya’s citizenship, rendering them stateless. In the early 1990s, another wave of Rohingya sought refuge in Bangladesh to escape forced labor and religious persecution.

Living as Muslims in a nation where a majority of the population practices Buddhism, the Rohingya have been victims of anti-Rohingya violence fueled by ultra-religious nationalism. Senior Buddhist monks even participated when the first wave of mass killings of Rohingya began in 2012 following clashes between Muslims and Buddhists.

However, in 2017, the anti-Rohingya violence escalated to a mass scale. Following an attack by a group of Rohingya militants, the government responded with brutal military force targeting the entire Rohingya population. This unleashed a series of mass killings, village burnings, lootings and even sexual violence, widely recognized as genocide. Within three months, these atrocities forced nearly 700,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh. Since then, the refugee population has continued to grow, and the dire situation remains unresolved.

Life in the Camps

The majority of Rohingya continue to reside in refugee camps in Bangladesh, enduring harsh living conditions and poverty. A study published by Burma Human Rights Network in February 2022 revealed that 93% of interviewed Rohingya reported inadequate access to food, while 50% expressed limited access to medical assistance. Furthermore, those interviewed highlighted the prevalence of crime within the camps, including arson, human trafficking and drug abuse.

Adding to their plight, the Bangladeshi government has displayed little to no cooperation and even oppression toward the Rohingya. Some refugees allege that the security forces responsible for safeguarding the camps themselves engage in abuse. Additionally, refugees face restrictions on employment and education outside the camps, as Bangladesh fears it may lead to their permanent settlement.

NetHope Steps In

NetHope, a “consortium of over 60 leading global nonprofits,” is trying to help the Rohingya by bringing them safe and reliable power and internet. The organization’s overall goal, both in this endeavor and in general, is to utilize modern technology to provide innovative solutions to humanitarian and development problems.

Member participants of NetHope have been operating in the Bangladesh/Myanmar region since 2017 to assess the Rohingya situation, formulate solutions and implement change. These participants found that improving internet access to the camps would, “have a deeply beneficial effect on the humanitarian response and can help responding agencies to overcome a number of critical challenges.” This conclusion came about after realizing that better internet access could help in managing the camps, as well as create better communication with NGO agencies and foreign governments.

Fortunately, NetHope and its acting partners have made some headway in achieving some results. In early 2020, workers on the ground constructed “eight wireless base station towers” to support a network for better communication among aid workers.

Looking Ahead

NetHope noted there is still room for much work in the effort to connect Rohingya refugees to the rest of the world. So far, the organization has formulated several possible solutions to building a wider, more accessible internet network inside the camps. However, these would require cooperation from the Bangladeshi government, as well as a stable power supply among other things. But with more diplomatic effort, there is hope for a brighter future for the Rohingya.

– Jonathon Crecelius
Photo: Flickr

Child Vaccination in South Sudan

Child Vaccination in South SudanIn sub-Saharan Africa, around 30 million children suffer from certain diseases annually. Half a million die because of measles, polio and tetanus. These diseases are immunization preventable, meaning that an adequate routine vaccination can prevent them. Child immunization coverage is a critical indicator of the overall health and well-being of the population. It helps prevent life-threatening diseases, reduces the burden on the health care system and improves economic outcomes by reducing absenteeism and health care costs.

However, in South Sudan, poverty hinders the nation’s efforts to improve child immunization rates. The country has one of the highest maternal and child mortality rates; its fragile health system has suffered further from years of conflict and displacement. In addition, the country faces an acute shortage of health care workers, with only one doctor for every 65,000 people, making it difficult to provide essential health services, including immunization, to all children in need.

Child Vaccination in South Sudan

According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) immunization dashboard for South Sudan, in 2021, the estimated coverage rates for DTP3 (three doses of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine) and MCV1 (one dose of measles-containing vaccine) were both 49%. These rates indicate an improvement from previous years but still fall below the global average of 81% in the same year.

Efforts for Higher Immunization Coverage

UNICEF and GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, have been working to improve child immunization rates in South Sudan. UNICEF is providing technical and financial assistance to the Ministry of Health to improve the delivery and monitoring of vaccines. At the same time, GAVI has been funding vaccines and cold chain equipment since 2021.

In November 2020, UNICEF launched a major vaccination campaign that vaccinated more than 2.4 million children in South Sudan against polio. The campaign aims to reach children under the age of 5 in high-risk areas, including hard-to-reach and conflict-affected zones.

The collaboration between the government and its partners and the dedication of health workers who confronted security challenges and harsh terrain have reached children in remote areas. Despite the challenges, the campaign reached more than 90% of the targeted children, ensuring protection against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

To improve child immunization rates in South Sudan, UNICEF, WHO and the Ministry of Health launched a nationwide campaign in February 2020. The campaign aimed to reach 2.5 million children and included an integrated approach to combat measles, vitamin A deficiency and worm infections. In addition to the vaccines, vitamin A supplements and deworming tablets, UNICEF engaged communities across South Sudan to provide information about the importance of these interventions; it also urges caregivers to ensure that their children are properly protected. GAVI and SIDA, two organizations dedicated to promoting immunization programs worldwide, support the campaign.

Looking Ahead: Child Vaccination in South Sudan

Efforts to improve child immunization rates in South Sudan are making progress despite the challenges posed by poverty and a fragile health system. Collaborative initiatives led by UNICEF, GAVI and the Ministry of Health are working to enhance the delivery and monitoring of vaccines, reaching children in even the most remote and conflict-affected areas. Major vaccination campaigns have successfully protected millions of children against diseases like polio, demonstrating the dedication of health workers and the resilience of communities. With continued support and integrated approaches, child immunization rates in South Sudan can further improve, ensuring a healthier future for its young population.

– Amber Kim
Photo: Flickr

The State of Renewable Energy in Jamaica

Renewable Energy in JamaicaJamaica, known for its vibrant culture and picturesque beaches, faces a pressing energy challenge that affects both its economy and its people. The island nation heavily relies on fossil fuels, particularly oil, for its energy needs, leaving it vulnerable to soaring prices and environmental repercussions. With energy insecurity and exorbitant waste costs, Jamaicans struggle to afford the high expenses of powering their homes and businesses. However, amidst these challenges, signs of progress are emerging as renewable energy initiatives gain momentum. And the state of renewable energy in Jamaica appears to be having an impact on poverty in the country.

The State of Energy Reliance in Jamaica

Jamaica primarily relies on fossil fuels, particularly oil, for energy production. Around 89% of all energy comes from such sources, with renewables making up 11% combined — solar accounts for only 1%. Since Jamaica imports a majority of its oil from other countries, it is subject to high prices. The cost of imported oil surpassed the profit from exported goods by almost 118% in 2010. As such, the continued use of fossil fuels is not sustainable for the country’s economy or environment.

Its energy insecurity is exacerbated by incredibly and consistently high amounts of wasted energy. For example, Jamaica Public Service Co., the country’s primary distributor, lost nearly 27% of the power it generated in 2017. This loss amounted to more than $301 million. Still, it primarily relies on fossil fuels despite the problems of inefficient infrastructure and high import costs.

How Energy Affects Poverty in Jamaica

Many Jamaicans pay high amounts of money to power their homes and businesses to compensate for import and waste costs. Oil can fluctuate in price, so relying on it puts people in a poor position financially. Out of 82 low-to-middle-income countries experiencing high rates of energy poverty, Jamaica has the highest energy poverty status because it lacks proper energy infrastructure.

Is Jamaica Making Progress?

Even though most of Jamaica’s energy comes from fossil fuels, current trends suggest that this may not continue to be the case. Multiple organizations have already taken steps to implement more renewable power sources. For example, the Jamaica Energy Security and Efficiency Enhancement Project decreased oil dependency by 24% in only seven years. It also developed sources of replenishable energy that Jamaicans can rely on.

The country is also receiving international assistance. The Global Environment Facility gave it a $1.25 million grant to switch hospitals to renewable energy mixes. Based on projections, this can result in saving $3.5 million while reducing energy consumption by 22% yearly. This change directly impacts poverty because it lessens the cost of power in critical sectors, translating to savings for Jamaican citizens.

The Impact of Renewable Energy on Jamaica

Many organizations are working to increase renewable energy to lessen poverty. For example, the founders of Radiant Energy Ltd. believe more clean power could strengthen Jamaica’s economy. Since high costs prevent growth and contribute to poverty, the organization provides clean electricity at a lower price than fossil fuels.

As a result of combined efforts, oil usage took only one year to drop from 104,408 terajoules to 58,276 terajoules in 2020. The reliance on fossil fuels still impacts poverty, but Jamaicans are steadily improving their renewable energy use.

Looking Ahead

Jamaica is working to make energy more accessible and affordable. For example, it exempts solar panels and wind turbines from certain taxes. The country continues to make notable progress in its transition towards renewable energy sources, signaling a promising future for the country’s economy and environment. Initiatives such as implementing domestic ethanol blends and exploring innovative solutions like floating solar panels demonstrate Jamaica’s commitment to sustainable energy alternatives. And as renewable energy becomes more accessible, there is hope that Jamaica can alleviate poverty by reducing power costs, fostering economic growth and creating a more resilient and environmentally conscious society.

– Jane Marsh
Photo: Flickr

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The Rise of Women’s Rights in Rwanda

Women's Rights in Rwanda
After the devastating impacts of the 1994 Genocide, which destroyed the social fabric of the country and left millions dead, Rwanda has become a nation with a stable and competent government. After this tragedy ended, 70% of Rwanda’s population was female and they implemented various interventions to rebuild the nation, beginning with the relief and transitional period toward a stable, economically and socially altered country. Rwanda has progressed in terms of gender equality rights, becoming one of the world’s female leading countries.

Women in Government

Over the past 20 years, women’s political participation has been significant and a major focus for inclusive development. Rwanda stands out globally for its efforts to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment, especially in political participation. In fact, it was the first country to have a majority of women in its legislative body. Women hold 52% of the cabinet positions and nearly two-thirds of the parliamentary seats.

Gender Equality in Rwanda

Rwanda formed legal mechanisms and institutions to promote women’s rights and the abolition of discrimination against women and girls. Also, it mainstreamed gender commitments into several policies and strategic plans. The Global Gender Gap Report 2020 ranked Rwanda among the top 10 countries to have eliminated the gender gap.

One of Rwanda’s accomplishments is the decline of maternal mortality rates due to women having better access to affordable and high-quality health care. Rwanda is leading the HeForShe campaign globally with more than 200,000 signatories. The campaign aims to bridge the gender digital divide, tripling girls’ enrolment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and ending gender-based violence. As the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the digitalization of all services, the country took a courageous move to lead the Generation Equality Action Coalition Technology and Innovation for Gender Equality and committed to eradicating the digital gender gap by 2026.

In 2016, Rwanda ranked fifth on the Global Gender Gap Index. This index focuses on equality in health, education and economics, while the World Economic Forum measures the gender gap index based on how far each nation has come in eradicating the gender gap.

Labor Rights

Women hold 86% of the labor force participation, resulting in a narrower wage gap. In Rwanda, women earn 88 cents for every dollar men earn. For comparison, women in the United States (U.S.) earn 83 cents for every dollar men earn. Finally, women in Rwanda can now benefit from three months of paid maternity leave under the law, making it easier for them to return to work while nurturing a family.

A supportive legal and policy framework has contributed to promoting women’s rights in Rwanda, making it much easier for them to advance their interests across many sectors. Rwanda revised its 2003 Constitution in 2015, stating that it enshrines the values of gender equality and women’s rights. It also provides for at least a 30% quota for women in all decision-making bodies.

Looking Ahead

Rwanda’s remarkable progress in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment is evident through its strong representation of women in government, the decline in maternal mortality rates, the narrowing wage gap and supportive legal framework. Through comprehensive policies and initiatives, the country has successfully positioned itself as a frontrunner in promoting women’s rights and inclusivity. Ultimately, Rwanda’s supportive framework and dedication to women’s rights have paved the way for a more equitable and prosperous society.

– Lilit Natalia Manoukian
Photo: Flickr

Can Technology Bridge Ethiopia’s Education Divide?

Located in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia has one of the largest populations on the continent with an estimated 116,462,712 people living in the country as of 2023. It also suffers from endemic poverty and widespread illiteracy: according to the CIA World Factbook, almost a quarter of the population lives in poverty and nearly 50% of the population can not read or write. The problems of illiteracy and poverty are much worse in rural Ethiopia, where few have access to the education, resources and opportunities that exist in urban areas. However, those working to improve education in Ethiopia could look to one successful experiment and its use of technology to bridge Ethiopia’s education divide.

The Rural/Urban Divide

Underscoring poverty’s inordinate effect on rural Ethiopians, as of 2016, the country’s rural poverty rate was 26%, compared to an urban poverty rate of 15%. With only about 23% of Ethiopia’s population currently living in urban areas, this divide is alarming. In fact, more than three-quarters of Ethiopians, and most of the country’s poor, live in rural areas and rely upon agriculture for food and income.

To help Ethiopia’s rural poor, the World Bank has emphasized the need to develop better infrastructure, adopt more modern agricultural techniques, increase levels of connectivity and create opportunities for non-agricultural employment. While the country has already made some progress in these areas, more work is necessary to bring the level of rural development up to that of urban areas.

In 2011, “36% of rural children were out of school compared to 13% of urban children,” and, as recently as 2020, “less than 20% of children from very poor households finished primary school.”

One Laptop per Child

Back in 2005, at the MIT campus, One Laptop Per Child came up with a plan to eradicate the education gap between countries by equipping children in underdeveloped nations with modern technology. Since its founding, the nonprofit organization has provided more than 3 million laptops to children in more than 64 countries, including Rwanda, Ghana and Kenya.

In February 2011, the One Laptop Per Child team decided to expand its efforts to rural Ethiopia. The team distributed educational tablets to around 20 schoolchildren in two remote villages, each around 50 miles outside the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa. The children had little to no education and were illiterate.

The results were a success. Although the children received no instruction on how to operate the devices, within weeks they had learned how to use them, experimenting with pre-installed apps to teach themselves the ABCs and English words. After five months, some children had even learned how to customize the tablets’ settings, all without teachers or a classroom setting.

A Blueprint for Success?

The success of One Laptop Per Child’s initiative to help educate rural Ethiopian children is inspiring. Exemplifying technology’s potential to help bridge Ethiopia’s education divide, such initiatives can complement the work of other nonprofits like Together We Learn. Currently working to improve children’s education in Ethiopia, Together We Learn has built new and improved schools with updated infrastructure, sponsored education for children from impoverished families and provided teacher training, among other efforts. It has thus far sponsored the education of 870 Ethiopian children and improved the lives of 11,500 students through its literacy training.

What’s Next?

The successful implementation of One Laptop Per Child’s educational tablets in rural Ethiopia showcases the potential of technology in bridging the education divide. This initiative, along with the work of organizations like Together We Learn, offers hope for improving access to education and reducing illiteracy rates in the country. By combining technology-driven solutions with infrastructure development and comprehensive support, Ethiopia can continue to make progress in addressing poverty and improving the lives of its population, both in rural and urban areas.

– Jonathon Crecelius

Photo: Flickr