More than 630 million people are living in extreme poverty all over the world. For a small country in Sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana has 10% of its population living in extreme poverty, which experts propose might go up by looking at current economic trends. NGOs have been pivotal in Ghana’s development and across the country. They have built schools, equipped orphanages and even adopted survivors from harmful cultural practices. In most instances, these bodies have transformed more lives in Ghana than the government due to the latter’s bureaucracy and deep-rooted corruption. In the wake of Mr Beast’s video, which brought into question the issue of NGOs and their associated inefficiency, diversion of funds and high administrative costs compared to lone philanthropists, this article sheds some light on the work of 10 NGOs transforming lives in Ghana.
1. Action Aid
Action Aid started operations in Ghana in 1990. It was the first country program to become an Associate of ActionAid International with a local Board membership of 13. It partners with communities to eradicate the problem of poverty by providing for the needs of the indigenous people and supporting their rights. Its work includes improving agriculture in communities by educating farmers in modern agronomic practices, providing potable water by constructing mini dams and wells and providing grain banks to store excess produce.
2. VisionFund Ghana
VisionFund Ghana is a Christian relief agency that aims to promote development in local communities in developing countries by working with impoverished communities to provide soft, micro-loans, micro-insurance and financial literacy services to individuals. Most of the NGO’s clientele comprises women living in agricultural (primarily rural) and peri-urban areas. The agency directly supports the agricultural, commerce, service and production sectors by lending capital to its clients through either groups or capital.
3. Free the Slaves Ghana
Along the coasts of Ghana, impoverished families sometimes sell their children into slavery on ships. Free the Slaves Ghana stalls this process by stepping in to rescue trafficked children who others use as sexual slaves and free labor on these ships. Free the Slaves Ghana has four objectives: influencing policymakers and advocating for change, engaging local communities, movement building and continuous learning, thus effecting much-needed change in lives in Ghana.
4. Care Ghana
Care Ghana works predominantly with women to improve their livelihoods, increase access to basic education and quality health care and provide opportunities. Its work includes providing help in times of crisis, providing food and water, supporting local health systems and community-based organizations, education and promoting climate justice and equality. In 1994, when it started operations, Care Ghana helped sensitize mining areas about sexual health and the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. Now, it partners with local and civil society organizations, the government and the private sector to bring about long-lasting change in lives in Ghana.
5. World Vision Ghana
Since 1979, World Vision Ghana has been working in Ghana to improve the lives of families, children and whole communities through collaboration with governments, faith leaders, communities, like-minded organizations and parents. It has been engaged in a series of works comprising the provision of clean water, household sanitation facilities, sensitization of families on nutrition, basic hygiene and sanitation practices and training of district teacher support teams (DTSTs) to help lower primary teachers navigate literacy instructional methodologies, among others.
6. The Alliance for African Women Initiative
The Alliance for African Women Initiative is an organization aimed at improving women’s and children’s lives by reducing the existing gender gap. The NGO has organized the Livelihood Project, the ECCACHILD Project, the Empowering GIRLS-WASH Project and the Community Outreach Project to carry out its objectives of creating a safe environment for the women and children in the society.
7. Catholic Relief Services
The Catholic Bishops of the United States founded Catholic Relief Services in 1943 to help survivors of World War II in Europe. In 1958, when it established itself in Ghana, the service impacted health care, education, maternal care, sanitation, agriculture and essential services. Though the organization does not operate through a set of specific, organized programs, it uses internal or external initiatives to accomplish its goals and transform lives in Ghana.
8. Hen Mpoano
Hen Mpoano is a nonprofit organization in Sekondi, Takoradi, in Ghana. Established in 2013, this organization has gone on to ensure that coastal and marine ecosystems benefit the people and nature. It has reached 116 communities, planted 99,000 mangrove seedlings and engaged 702 volunteers to help with implementation. It has partnered with local and international partners to solve food insecurity, changing weather patterns, over-fishing, poverty and gender inequality.
9. Star Ghana Foundation
Star Ghana Foundation strengthens civil society capacity by facilitating alliances, providing integrated capacity-building support to partners and promoting dialogue on critical and sensitive national issues. Founded in 2010, it has helped citizens convey their concerns to the government, which has brought about lasting change and impact in policy, services and practice.
10. Plan International Ghana
Plan International Ghana has three main priorities; it aims to create violence-free communities for children, provide opportunities to children in the area of quality education and youth skills training and ensure families earn enough money to enhance the lives of children. It has been working for 30 years in Ghana and aims to do more to transform lives in Ghana.
NGOs have made remarkable progress in contributing to the health and development of the average Ghanaian, something for which people do not commend them enough. Perhaps, if governments were to take a cue from their operations, Ghana would have been a better place.
– Angela Agyeiwaa Darkwah
Photo: Unsplash
Preventing Cancer in Latin America
Some of the health issues in Latin America are exacerbated by poverty. While there have been some policies in place to limit social inequities from poverty, including improvements in education and health-related sectors, including increased school access and reduced infant mortality, the maintenance of these policies has been insufficient. With that, many people lack access to basic health care and treatment. This results in a high amount of the population, specifically the elderly, experiencing poor conditions and lack of healthcare, leading them to be more likely to receive diagnoses of disabling diseases including cancer.
The Latin American and Caribbean Code Against Cancer
A new method is being put into place to lower the risks of getting cancer and mortality rates. This method is through the Latin America and Caribbean Code Against Cancer. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) launched this initiative on October 17. This project aims to have code generate recommendations based on current scientific research. There are 17 recommendations based on this research, which have conformed to common scenarios for the region. These recommendations are to limit the likelihood of developing cancer and if a person already has cancer, the recommendations can decrease the risk of mortality. In addition, 30 policy recommendations accompany the previous suggestions. These policy recommendations are not legally binding as some structural and socio-economic factors prevent the implementation of these suggestions.
17 Actions to Limit the Risks of Cancer
Specialists and representatives convened by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the World Health Organization have reviewed the recommendations made by the code and recommend a set of 17 actions that people should take to start preventing cancer in Latin America. The first 14 actions include not smoking and maintaining a smoke-free environment, maintaining a healthy weight and doing daily physical activity, eating a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol, breastfeeding to prevent breast cancer, protecting yourself from direct sun exposure, ensuring there is no smoke buildup in your home, limiting time in areas with high air pollution, adopt preventative measures in a job that has exposure risks, get checked for bacteria or virus infections, and do not use hormone replacement for menopause.
The first of the final three actions is that people between the ages of 50 and 74 should visit a healthcare provider to have an early test for colon and rectal cancer. The second of the final three recommendations is that people 40 years or older should visit a health provider every two years for a clinical breast exam. Then, from ages 50 to 74, get a mammogram every two years. The last of the final three recommendations is that people from the ages of 30 to 64 should visit a health provider for an HPV test every 5-10 years for cervical cancer. A combination of these 17 actions will help lower the risks of getting cancer and lower the risks of mortality if cancer already persists.
30 Policy Recommendations to Mitigate Cancer
To accompany these 17 actions are 30 recommendations. These recommendations are not legally binding as some factors affecting the region make it difficult to implement them. These factors include poverty, unemployment, lack of housing, difficulty obtaining healthy food, and lack of health infrastructure. These 30 recommendations fall under the categories of tobacco, weight, physical activity, diet, alcohol and breastfeeding, sun exposure, indoor air pollution, outdoor air pollution, occupational hazards, helicobacter pylori, viral infections, hormone replacement, early detection of colon and rectal cancer, early detection of breast cancer and early detection of cervical cancer. These recommendation categories are very similar to the 17 actions as they are meant to be used in tandem. As they are meant to be used together, they will help limit the risk of developing cancer and lower mortality rates.
For the code to work effectively, countries in the region are to include all 17 actions without making any changes to the wording. The only exceptions are for synonyms that are generally accepted. Additionally, no changes are to be made to the public policy recommendations accompanying the actions. With effective use of both the actions and the policies, it will be easier to begin preventing cancer in Latin America.
Conclusion
The pressing challenge of cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean, ranking fourth globally in cancer cases and facing high mortality rates, demands urgent attention and comprehensive strategies. Code Against Cancer provides hope for preventing cancer in Latin America through the initiative guidelines. The 17 actions and 30 recommendations include diverse lifestyle aspects and public policy, providing a comprehensive framework for cancer prevention. Through collaborative action and commitment to preventive measures, there is hope for preventing cancer in Latin America and lowering mortality rates.
To begin to limit cancer even further in the Latin American community, poverty should be addressed to limit inequities in receiving treatment and access to healthcare. There are organizations that are beginning to limit poverty including TECHNO, which is a global organization advocating for social policies that is currently operating in 19 countries in Latin America. This organization is taking a three stage approach to limiting poverty. Their website states that “the initial phase is a needs assessment through Community Organizing Committees, the second phase is the implementation of programs in response to the needs and the third phase is the promotion of the implementation of lasting and sustainable solutions.” With organizations including TECHO, poverty will begin to be reduced at larger scales. Limiting poverty in combination with Code Against Cancer will be beneficial in lowering cancer rates and keeping the population healthy.
– Sara Agosto
Photo: Flickr
Lumen Vitae Supports Education in Haiti
Education in Haiti faces substantial challenges, with a limited percentage of the population gaining access to tertiary education. The CIA World Factbook estimated that in 2021, only about one in 20 young adults in Haiti had the opportunity to pursue higher education. Underfunding, inadequate infrastructure and ongoing political and economic instability have further exacerbated this issue. Despite these challenges, Haiti remains hopeful for improvement through government initiatives and external partnerships to expand access to higher education. These efforts are crucial in providing the country’s youth with better prospects for the future and strengthening higher education in Haiti.
Education Linked to Poverty
Education in Haiti is closely intertwined with the nation’s poverty issue. Nearly 90% of Haitians live below the poverty line, with nearly a third of them living in extreme poverty. With poverty playing such a prevalent role across the country, many of Haiti’s citizens lack the agency to be able to pursue tertiary education. The lack of affordable options and inadequate educational infrastructure further hampers the prospects of economic improvement for most of the population. Expanding access to higher education is essential to break the poverty cycle and offer Haiti’s citizens a brighter future.
Education and Gender Inequality
The topic of education in Haiti is closely tied to gender inequality in the country. This gender disparity is evident in the enrollment rates, with fewer females accessing tertiary education. Additionally, as the World Bank points out, adult men in Haiti are far more likely than their female counterparts to attend or complete secondary and tertiary education. Cultural and socio-economic factors often limit educational opportunities for women, perpetuating gender disparities in various aspects of Haitian society. This gender imbalance hinders the empowerment and economic prospects of women and contributes to the broader issue of gender inequality in the nation.
About Lumen Vitae
The organization Lumen Vitae can trace its beginnings to a small mission trip group that visited Camp Corail in Croix-des-Bouquets in 2011. This group joined the efforts of the group Caritas in Veritate International to bring critical aid to internally displaced refugees following the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that shook Haiti. Many of the mission trip’s participants were avid members of Jesus Youth, an international missionary movement rooted in the Catholic Church. With the support of Jesus Youth, these mission trips continued for a few years, returning to Haiti to help rebuild the country after such a devastating natural disaster. Humble beginnings of educational outreach were also possible, with an initiative led in conjunction with the local Scalabrini Fathers to educate 25 Haitian children.
Through continued mission trips, Jesus Youth continued to support financial assistance for students located in Camp Corail. By taking a definitive step forward, the organization sent a missionary of its own in 2016 to explore the possibility of a larger project for education in Haiti. This probe proved to eventually be successful, with Jesus Youth deciding to create Lumen Vitae in 2017. As a subsidiary charitable organization, Jesus Youth started Lumen Vitae to bring dignity through education to those living in poverty in Haiti. Since then, Lumen Vitae has been able to lead initiatives and programs to further its goal of educational equity, especially by opening the Lumen Vitae Office, the “Limye Lavi Learning Center” professional school, and reaching more than 600 Haitian children.
However, Lumen’s Vitae’s efforts are not just limited to educational equity. The organization has also extended its charitable efforts to other areas, recognizing the interconnectedness of global poverty in affecting many aspects of life. For example, the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic had disastrous effects worldwide, which were even more prominent in developing countries such as Haiti. In response to the rapid inflation of goods in Haiti during this time, Lumen Vitae played a pivotal role in organizing a “Race for the Light” donation event. With more than 2,450 people participating in the event, it raised $260,000 to feed poor families in Haiti.
When Passion Intertwines With Purpose
As a senior at the University of Notre Dame majoring in Neuroscience and minoring in Poverty Studies, Allan George found himself deeply attracted to the mission of Lumen Vitae. In an interview with The Borgen Project, he remarked that he was “looking for an opportunity to explore the issue of global poverty and also be able to do some good in the world.” This search led him to find Lumen Vitae. Subsequently, he landed an internship with the organization, helping the marketing team reach potential donors to sponsor children’s education in Haiti.
To achieve this, he helped set up Hubspot, a customer relationship management software, to manage prospective donors properly. He also worked on Lumen Vitae’s Podcast with Audio editing with Logic Pro and Video editing with Final Cut Pro. He helped publish the Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. Although he has many incredible thoughts about his Lumen Vitae internship, George shared that “what stood out to [him] the most was the ability to turn small actions into something meaningful which can help to reduce educational inequality. [He] greatly encourages anyone interested to look into getting involved with organizations in order to alleviate global poverty.”
– Nathaniel George
Photo: Flickr
How Project HOPE Provided Aid After Hurricane Dorian in The Bahamas
Economic Vulnerability of The Bahamas
Situated in the Caribbean, The Bahamas are an archipelago of 700 islands, only 30 of which are inhabited. Famed for its white beaches and clear water, the area is a popular vacation destination. Between January and July 2023, 5.89 million tourists visited the islands.
While high rates of tourism promise economic profitability, reliance on tourism to support the economy places the country in a vulnerable position. In 2023, the Investment Climate Statement of The Bahamas reported only 30% of the country’s GDP stems from non-tourism-related services and more than half of the workforce is part of the tourism industry. With the Bahamas’ GDP heavily reliant on tourism, natural disasters and external factors such as COVID-19 can cause the economy to greatly suffer.
The Damage that Hurricane Dorian Caused
The catastrophic damage of Hurricane Dorian included the destruction of more than 13,000 homes, forcing many to evacuate. Project HOPE reports that on the Island of Abaco, which was among the worst regions affected, only 20% of all buildings were left unscathed. Medical attention and supplies, food, sanitary water, gas and electricity supplies were all impeded.
Project HOPE’s Impact
Project HOPE’s emergency response team (ERT) was able to reach Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, three days after the hurricane. Working in conjunction with the locally registered NGO Restoration Abaco, they delivered more than 16,000 critical relief and hygiene supplies, including body bags, soap, bandages, diapers, toothbrushes and drinking water. The ERT also ensured the donated supplies were usable and organized them efficiently. Overall, Project HOPE delivered more than $3 million of medical supplies. It also set up a triage and examination area in the Fox Hill Community Center, where more than 200 survivors were sheltering.
Hope for the Future
Although the initial impact of the hurricane was visibly evident, its long-term consequences continue to impact the region. Project HOPE provides ongoing support for recovery and rebuilding in The Bahamas. It conducts first-aid and health care training through Creole-speaking volunteers to the Haitian population, is rebuilding damaged infrastructure and provides crucial psychological support to survivors. Investing in long-term solutions for The Bahamas allows the sowing of the seed of hope and creates greater resilience against future extreme weather events.
At the end of 2022, the International Trade Administration reported that the government of The Bahamas has subsequently invested in light manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries and renewable energy to diversify The Bahamas’ economy.
– Heidi Helen Horgan
Photo: Flickr
Roche Invests $240 Million in Colombia’s Health System
The History of Roche
Founded in 1896, Roche is one of the world’s largest and oldest biotech companies. Its founder, Fritz Hoffmann-La Roche, launched the company in Basel, Switzerland, with the idea that manufacturing improvements from the industrial revolution could be beneficial in fighting disease.
Roche pioneered 32 of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) List of Essential Medicines. In 1962, it introduced the first anti-cancer drug, Fluorouracil. In the mid-1990s, Roche developed a series of drugs for cancer treatment, including Herceptin for metastatic breast cancer and MabThera as a life-extending treatment for leukemia. Roche developed new diagnostic tests and automatic analyzers in 1968, setting up service laboratories to process the data.
Roche currently has facilities in more than 100 countries and provides services such as:
Colombia’s Health System
The WHO ranks Colombia 22nd in the world for health care system efficiency, above the United States, Canada and Australia. A 1991 legislation, Law 100, extended universal health coverage to the majority of the population, making key reforms in Colombia’s health system. Public health care coverage rose to 65% of the population in the following decade.
The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) Health at a Glance 2023 report reveals that 95% of the Colombian population has access to health care services. However, only 41% report being satisfied with the services that they receive. Additionally, Colombia has a shortage of health care professionals, with 2.5 practicing doctors and 1.6 practicing nurses per 1,000 people. OECD suggests 3.7 practicing doctors and 9.2 practicing nurses for optimal population coverage.
Despite the efficiency of Colombia’s health system and its work on universal health care, the lack of financial sustainability, inequity of care in rural areas, fragmentation of the system and limited investment in primary health care detract value from it. Many of Colombia’s aging citizens with chronic diseases suffer from an unequal distribution of an already limited number of health care workers.
Approximately 88% of Colombia is rural, with limited access to health care, increased violence and greater levels of poverty — factors that contribute to disease. Within the country, 10.6 million people live more than 60 minutes away from the nearest hospital, and 63.6% of those people live in rural regions. Colombia’s most isolated region requires 5-11% of a person’s monthly wage and over three hours of travel to reach the nearest hospital.
Roche’s Investment in Colombia’s Health System
In 1957, Roche founded its affiliate in Bogotà, Colombia, marking the beginning of a decades-long investment in Colombia’s health system. In 2022, Roche performed 168 million diagnostic tests and 731,000 treatments in the country.
This year, Roche announced that it will be investing a total of $240 million into Colombia’s health system over the next five years. Roche recently invested $40 million in a new distribution center just outside of Bogotà. The company is confident that its investments will provide safe, high-quality and effective health care to Colombians. Its focus includes work on pathologies with high public health impact and providing care to populations that have been neglected.
Working with stakeholders in the country, Roche hopes to reduce inequalities in health care access by providing educational programs on disease prevention and self-care to populations with limited access to health care. Additionally, Roche’s Pink Offices in Colombia employ visually impaired women with heightened senses of touch to assist in breast cancer screenings — offering financial independence for a marginalized population, encouraging greater community involvement in health care and increasing early diagnosis rates.
Concluding Remarks
Roche’s $240 million investment in Colombia’s health system is a continued promise of the company’s work in the country. The company is providing quick, efficient and safe health care to patients across Colombia, combatting existing inequality in health care access. Its continued investment in Colombia has the potential to decrease disparities in disease management with greater diagnostic tests and treatments.
– Komalpreet Kaur
Photo: Flickr
How Elephant Poo Paper Is Alleviating Poverty in Sri Lanka
Elephants defecate 16 times daily, and 100 kilograms of dung can be used as paper pulp. Sri Lanka has been exploiting this resource since 1997, and this genius idea of elephant poo paper has been responsible for alleviating poverty, facilitating job creation and rural empowerment. This process has also saved billions of trees from being axed because the Rainforest Action Network estimated that 3 to 7 billion trees are cut down globally to manufacture paper.
Sri Lanka’s Elephant Dung Paper Industry
Eco Maximus is a foundation that began in 1997 that exploits the huge excretory system of elephants, purchasing manure from elephant sanctuaries. A portion of the trust’s earnings goes towards the Millennium Elephant Foundation (MEF), an NGO that provides a secure haven for sick, elderly and disabled elephants. Without the care that the foundation provided, these elephants are in danger. When one purchases and uses products made from elephant dung paper, they actively enhance the well-being of Sri Lanka’s magnificent elephants.
Local Impact on Poverty
The elephant poo paper industry is alleviating poverty in Sri Lanka. This innovative sector creates sustainable job opportunities, by hiring rural people to collect the elephant dung not only addresses the pressing need for employment but also becomes a catalyst for economic empowerment, building local economies to be self-reliant. Individuals engaged in collecting, processing and crafting paper products increase income and, in turn, contribute to alleviating poverty in Sri Lanka.
Local artisans craft the products and empower the lives of both the community members and the elephants, with the business employing 150 people as of 2020. Artisans find purpose and livelihoods within the elephant poo paper production process, showcasing the potential of unconventional industries to alleviate poverty in Sri Lanka. This enhances their proficiency in the industry and broadens their employability and income-earning potential. As the artisans become adept at transforming elephant dung into unique, eco-friendly paper products, their newfound skills contribute to a sustainable and self-reliant livelihood.
One notable initiative is the “Ellie Pooh” project, where local artisans collect and process elephant dung to create a range of handmade paper products such as notebooks, cards and stationery. Although it may not entirely eradicate the human-elephant conflict in Sri Lanka, Ellie Pooh’s paper has significantly increased farmers’ tolerance towards elephants. Consequently, elephants are viewed more as economic assets than mere nuisances or threats. This shift in perspective makes the local population less inclined to see elephants as a problem that needs elimination. The role of Ellie Pooh’s paper becomes crucial in the conservation efforts to preserve the population of Asian elephants in Sri Lanka.
The Future
The prospects of the elephant dung paper industry in Sri Lanka are promising, with the potential to shape the country’s economic landscape significantly. As the industry gains traction, there is room for substantial growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products worldwide. The unique nature of elephant dung paper positions it as a distinctive player in the market, attracting environmentally conscious consumers. Furthermore, the industry’s positive impact on poverty reduction, skill development and community empowerment enhances its social value, making it an integral part of Sri Lanka’s economic fabric.
By continuing to innovate, establish strategic partnerships and address challenges, the industry can contribute to sustainable economic growth and serve as a model for other environmentally friendly initiatives. As awareness of the industry grows, its role in shaping Sri Lanka’s economic landscape will likely expand, offering a harmonious blend of economic prosperity and environmental conservation.
Conclusion
The elephant dung paper industry is a transformative force in alleviating poverty in Sri Lanka, embodying a synergy between unconventional livelihoods, economic empowerment and environmental sustainability. By converting a perceived problem, the human-elephant conflict, into a solution, this industry provides sustainable jobs, income opportunities and community empowerment. The symbiotic relationship between humans and elephants is undergoing redefinition as communities utilize elephants for economic opportunity.
– Ellen Jones
Photo: Unsplash
Addressing Challenges Accessing Education in Sudan
“Sudan is on the brink of becoming home to the worst education crisis in the world…children have been exposed to the horrors of war for nearly half a year. Now, forced away from their classrooms, teachers and friends, they are at risk of falling into a void that will threaten the future of an entire generation,” said Mandeep O’Brien, the Sudan United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Country Representative. Here is information about what some are doing to address access to education in Sudan.
The History of Violence in Sudan
Since the 1980s, Sudan has experienced extreme violence at the hands of a militant government. For 30 years, al-Bashir ruled as Sudan’s dictator. In 2011, after years of civil disobedience, civil wars and public protests, South Sudan gained independence from the remainder of the country. In 2019, a military coup displaced al-Bashir and its leaders announced a move toward democracy. However, the two leaders of the coup began fighting each other on April 15, 2023, derailing Sudan’s democratic revolution and starting the current civil war.
Some schools are struggling to reopen and at least 171 schools became emergency shelters for the millions who this war displaced. Even those children who fled Sudan and are attending schools in other nearby countries struggle to focus on studies, as the violence they witnessed at home haunts them.
The Impact of Poverty in Sudan on Child Slavery and Education
As of 2020, 85% of Sudanese children are living in abject poverty. These conditions make the future of Sudan’s rising generation look bleak. With school closures depriving children of socialization with their peers and access to critical resources, they are much more likely to join militant groups actively recruiting displaced youth. This leaves them vulnerable to the influence of extremist beliefs, setting them on a potential path of more violence. Additionally, Sudanese girls are being abducted and forced into sex slavery and trafficking.
As of October 27, 2023, this war has led to the deaths of up to 9,000 people and injured thousands more, according to the UN. A recent analysis shows that the earning loss from the conflict so far may result in a lifetime loss of up to $26 billion for the younger Sudanese generation.
UNICEF and Save the Children are working hard to bridge the widening education gap, including encouraging the reopening of schools and rehiring of teachers. Areas where it is unsafe to reopen schools are exploring alternative learning methods. Save the Children is working with 200 schools, providing educational resources and safe play spaces for school-age children.
Looking Ahead
Resistance committees in Sudan are working within their communities to improve infrastructure. Originally formed to non-violently organize against the two militant groups causing the civil war, they are now attempting to reconnect energy grids, create and staff medical clinics and meet other community needs. This collective is also creating a larger political roadmap, with the hope of ending the conflict and making Sudan a stable democracy.
– Casey Pratt
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
10 NGOs Transforming Lives in Ghana
1. Action Aid
Action Aid started operations in Ghana in 1990. It was the first country program to become an Associate of ActionAid International with a local Board membership of 13. It partners with communities to eradicate the problem of poverty by providing for the needs of the indigenous people and supporting their rights. Its work includes improving agriculture in communities by educating farmers in modern agronomic practices, providing potable water by constructing mini dams and wells and providing grain banks to store excess produce.
2. VisionFund Ghana
VisionFund Ghana is a Christian relief agency that aims to promote development in local communities in developing countries by working with impoverished communities to provide soft, micro-loans, micro-insurance and financial literacy services to individuals. Most of the NGO’s clientele comprises women living in agricultural (primarily rural) and peri-urban areas. The agency directly supports the agricultural, commerce, service and production sectors by lending capital to its clients through either groups or capital.
3. Free the Slaves Ghana
Along the coasts of Ghana, impoverished families sometimes sell their children into slavery on ships. Free the Slaves Ghana stalls this process by stepping in to rescue trafficked children who others use as sexual slaves and free labor on these ships. Free the Slaves Ghana has four objectives: influencing policymakers and advocating for change, engaging local communities, movement building and continuous learning, thus effecting much-needed change in lives in Ghana.
4. Care Ghana
Care Ghana works predominantly with women to improve their livelihoods, increase access to basic education and quality health care and provide opportunities. Its work includes providing help in times of crisis, providing food and water, supporting local health systems and community-based organizations, education and promoting climate justice and equality. In 1994, when it started operations, Care Ghana helped sensitize mining areas about sexual health and the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. Now, it partners with local and civil society organizations, the government and the private sector to bring about long-lasting change in lives in Ghana.
5. World Vision Ghana
Since 1979, World Vision Ghana has been working in Ghana to improve the lives of families, children and whole communities through collaboration with governments, faith leaders, communities, like-minded organizations and parents. It has been engaged in a series of works comprising the provision of clean water, household sanitation facilities, sensitization of families on nutrition, basic hygiene and sanitation practices and training of district teacher support teams (DTSTs) to help lower primary teachers navigate literacy instructional methodologies, among others.
6. The Alliance for African Women Initiative
The Alliance for African Women Initiative is an organization aimed at improving women’s and children’s lives by reducing the existing gender gap. The NGO has organized the Livelihood Project, the ECCACHILD Project, the Empowering GIRLS-WASH Project and the Community Outreach Project to carry out its objectives of creating a safe environment for the women and children in the society.
7. Catholic Relief Services
The Catholic Bishops of the United States founded Catholic Relief Services in 1943 to help survivors of World War II in Europe. In 1958, when it established itself in Ghana, the service impacted health care, education, maternal care, sanitation, agriculture and essential services. Though the organization does not operate through a set of specific, organized programs, it uses internal or external initiatives to accomplish its goals and transform lives in Ghana.
8. Hen Mpoano
Hen Mpoano is a nonprofit organization in Sekondi, Takoradi, in Ghana. Established in 2013, this organization has gone on to ensure that coastal and marine ecosystems benefit the people and nature. It has reached 116 communities, planted 99,000 mangrove seedlings and engaged 702 volunteers to help with implementation. It has partnered with local and international partners to solve food insecurity, changing weather patterns, over-fishing, poverty and gender inequality.
9. Star Ghana Foundation
Star Ghana Foundation strengthens civil society capacity by facilitating alliances, providing integrated capacity-building support to partners and promoting dialogue on critical and sensitive national issues. Founded in 2010, it has helped citizens convey their concerns to the government, which has brought about lasting change and impact in policy, services and practice.
10. Plan International Ghana
Plan International Ghana has three main priorities; it aims to create violence-free communities for children, provide opportunities to children in the area of quality education and youth skills training and ensure families earn enough money to enhance the lives of children. It has been working for 30 years in Ghana and aims to do more to transform lives in Ghana.
NGOs have made remarkable progress in contributing to the health and development of the average Ghanaian, something for which people do not commend them enough. Perhaps, if governments were to take a cue from their operations, Ghana would have been a better place.
– Angela Agyeiwaa Darkwah
Photo: Unsplash
Being poor in North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea)
Following the Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991, North Korea experienced a significant economic decline, mainly due to a reduction in foreign aid. Poverty in North Korea is widespread, and its people have become one of the most isolated and marginalized groups. This economic downturn has contributed to the challenges faced by the population.
What Is Poverty Like in North Korea?
Poverty is prevalent in North Korea. Around 60% of the total population is believed to live below the poverty line, equating to 15 million people. According to the remote-sensed luminosity data, the economic status of North Korea forecasts a downturn even though there is a lack of credible information regarding the poverty figures. Furthermore, due to agricultural mismanagement of the state as well as an increasing economic inequality between regions, North Koreans are suffering from food shortages, leading to malnutrition. Aside from economic problems, there is a lack of infrastructure in education and health care, making the quality of life much poorer.
When Have They Been So Poor?
Being poor in North Korea has been an ongoing issue. From 1994 to 1998, there was a severe famine in North Korea, which resulted in nearly two to three million deaths, more than 10% of North Korea’s population. All the natural disasters, such as hailstorms in 1994, flooding from 1995 to 1996 and droughts in 1997, pushed the whole country into a more grievous economic crisis. Despite starvation during the 1990s, the regime has maintained a failed economic model, which put the country’s food security in danger. Throughout the global pandemic coronavirus disease, starting in early 2020, North Korea closed its borders, which aggravated the scarcity of food. Day by day, North Koreans face increasing repression and danger, threatening the welfare of their lives.
Why Is Poverty Rampant in North Korea?
Undeniably, being poor in North Korea stems from the poor governance of the totalitarian regime of the Kim family. They adopted the “Juche” ideology, having these three elements: the spirit of independence, self-reliance in the economy and self-defense in the military sector, which paved the way for the dictatorship by isolating the country in the name of independence. This ideology led the leadership to take on a command economy, also known as a planned economy, in which they controlled the production and distribution of goods and services.
This economic model severely limits freedom in the domestic market setting, hindering economic growth due to the absence of competition. All the regulations on international trade exacerbate the country’s economy. Furthermore, the regime violated the right to life and freedom, and in particular, women and children are poorly treated among all vulnerable groups.
Hope in Action
Helping Hands Korea(HHK) is a non-governmental organization based on the Korean peninsula that has actively supported North Koreans since 1996. It provides necessities, including food, medicine and clothing, to North Korean people as well as escapees in China.
LiNK, Liberty in North Korea, is an international non-government organization that aims to rescue North Korean refugees who have to travel a 3,000-mile secret route and empower them by offering resettlement programs. The organization also strives to change the narrative on North Korea by creating media content. More than 150,000 people engage with North Korean storytellers on social media, and in 2019, this project reached over 5.7 million people online.
The what, when and why of being poor in North Korea reflects that its political and economic stance has made North Korea a hermit kingdom. However, despite the extreme poverty in North Korea, they have a hopeful future ahead as there are international supporters who are acting in full hope to ensure they are well-fed, clothed and sheltered.
– Grace Mun
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
How the Fashion Industry Can Reduce Poverty in Southern Africa
Poverty in Southern Africa
Parallels between countries such as Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe display a larger picture of poverty in Southern Africa, wherein the populations are getting younger but are simultaneously becoming further entrenched in poverty cycles. A UNESCO report published in 2023 identified that the limited accessibility of training and skill development programs prevents aspiring individuals in Southern Africa from attaining the knowledge and funding that would allow them the same opportunities as those living in the Global North.
Despite the classification of Namibia as an upper-middle income country by The World Bank, the country continues to endure elevated levels of poverty, especially regarding its degree of development. Accordingly, unemployment is rife and sits at 21%, a reality that mainly affects the younger population of Namibia. Comparatively, Zambia saw 61% of its population earn less than the international poverty line ($2.15 a day). Zambia, identified as one of the world’s youngest countries by median age, faces ongoing challenges in providing its youth with education, skill development, employment opportunities and breaking the cycle of poverty.
In 2019, 49% of the population of Zimbabwe lived in extreme poverty; similar to Namibia and Zambia, the country is characterized by a young demographic, with 42% of inhabitants between the ages of 10 – 29.
The Fashion Sector: Insufficient Education and Investment
Poverty in Southern Africa frequently prevents people from accessing high-quality education, depriving ambitious fashion designers and artisans of the information and abilities needed to compete in the global market successfully. People with creative talents find it difficult to live sustainably in the fashion industry without the proper education and training.
The widespread problem of poverty in Southern Africa is thus exacerbated by the underfunding of the countries’ fashion industries and educational systems. The development of these businesses is significantly hampered by poverty, creating a vicious cycle that limits investment opportunities, impedes the expansion of infrastructure and limits access to education.
While traditional craftsmanship continues to prosper in Namibia, the lack of educational programs hinders the fashion industry’s ability to grow and modernize.
In a similar vein, Zambia’s fashion scene showcases dynamic regional styles, but its ability to compete internationally is limited by a lack of significant expenditures in infrastructure and talent development. Simultaneously, the fashion sector in Zimbabwe, which is renowned for its inventive designs, has obstacles in expanding its influence because of restricted access to high-quality education and funding.
Ending Poverty Cycles: An Opportunity for Skill Development and Job Creation
To fight against poverty in Southern Africa and support the inclusive and sustainable development of its creative sector, UNESCO has started several initiatives whereby the main goals are to increase public awareness of the importance of the creative industries, produce data to aid in advocacy efforts, encourage change by disseminating examples of successful programs and establish new alliances. Encouraging entrepreneurship with accessible capital and mentorship helps build brands and creates jobs in local communities. Empowered people can use their skills and creativity to turn the fashion industry into a source of hope and break the cycle of poverty in Southern Africa. Examples of this can already be seen across Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The 2013-founded Fashion Council of Namibia (FCN) addresses the absence of venues and organizes instruction for local talent by offering vital courses and programs for up-and-coming designers. By providing artists with platforms and industry information, FCN supports the development of Southern Africa’s fashion ecosystem. FCN is converting creative potential into economic prospects through empowerment and education to alleviate poverty within Namibia’s fashion community.
Fashion Programs in Zambia and Zimbabwe
In 2023, young people in Zambia welcomed more opportunities from leaders such as Chisoma Lombe and Chola Chilufya Lungu, who use fashion as a vehicle for change. By fostering talents in fashion design and production, they enable people economically through ChizÍ and “My Zambia, My Responsibility” and encourage young people in Zambia to develop a sense of ownership. These activities seek to break the cycle of poverty by tackling societal challenges and transforming mindsets through fashion-driven projects. They also provide a road for economic empowerment within Zambia’s fashion community.
Zimbabwe Fashion Week and the Creative Accelerator Programme (CAP) aim to transform fashion education in Zimbabwe. From 2023 to 2028, this five-year project hopes to modernize the university’s infrastructure and curriculum, raising education to international levels through collaboration with foreign universities, technological advancements, scholarship programs and long-term sustainability. Through this strategic reorganization, a new generation of designers is equipped with the abilities and entrepreneurial spirit that will help Zimbabwe’s fashion industry gain international recognition.
Looking Ahead
Despite continuous confrontation with poor education and minimal investment opportunities, these initiatives capture the fashion industry’s potential to be a force for good in the world, encouraging economic development and social change and ultimately reducing poverty in Southern Africa.
–Zara Brown
Photo: Pixabay
Key Technologies in the Fight Against Hunger in Brazil
The Landscape
With its gigantic population and diverse socio-economic landscape, Brazil has been grappling with the challenges of hunger and poverty for many years. According to the World Bank, approximately 21.4% of the population in Brazil lives below the national poverty line. This alarming figure underscores the pressing need for comprehensive initiatives to address the multifaceted issues of hunger and poverty.
The Technologies
A notable initiative that has gained traction is the use of advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) to identify and target areas with the highest prevalence of hunger. By analyzing various socio-economic indicators, such as income levels, employment rates and access to education, organizations can strategically deploy resources where they are needed most. The implementation of such technologies has already shown promising results, with a 15% reduction in hunger rates reported in targeted regions.
Another key technology is the development of sustainable agriculture practices. Brazil’s vast agricultural sector plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy, but traditional farming methods often contribute to environmental degradation and intensify poverty. Through the integration of precision farming techniques and the use of eco-friendly fertilizers, initiatives have managed to increase crop yields while minimizing environmental impact. As a result, more than 200,000 farmers have experienced improved livelihoods, marking a significant step toward sustainable development.
In addition to these advancements, the implementation of blockchain technology has streamlined the distribution of aid and resources to fight hunger in Brazil. By creating transparent and tamper-proof ledgers, organizations can ensure that assistance reaches its intended recipients efficiently. This has led to a 30% reduction in logistical inefficiencies, allowing aid organizations to allocate resources more effectively.
Brazil has also seen the integration of solar-powered technologies to address energy poverty in rural areas. Access to electricity is a critical factor in improving living conditions and supporting economic activities. Solar-powered solutions, such as portable solar lamps and solar-powered water pumps, have brought light and clean water to more than 500,000 people in remote regions, contributing to a substantial improvement in their overall well-being.
Innovations in biotechnology have played a pivotal role in enhancing the nutritional value of staple crops. Recent advancements in biofortification, the process of enhancing the nutrient content of crops through breeding or genetic modification, have resulted in crops with higher levels of essential vitamins and minerals. This approach has had a direct impact on addressing malnutrition, with an estimated 25% decrease in vitamin deficiencies reported in targeted populations.
The Impact
To dig into the impact of these technologies, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of metrics and measurable outcomes. The success of these initiatives can be quantified by the tangible improvements experienced by the communities they serve. For instance, the data-driven approach using AI has directly contributed to a 20% increase in school attendance among children in targeted areas, breaking the cycle of poverty through access to education.
In sustainable agriculture, there was a 15% increase in income reported by farmers who adopted the new precision farming practices. This not only lifts individuals out of poverty but also creates a ripple effect within communities, fostering economic growth and resilience.
The impact of implementing blockchain is evident not only in efficiency gains but also in the increased trust and accountability it brings to aid distribution. By ensuring that aid reaches its intended recipients, organizations have witnessed a 25% rise in community engagement and participation in local development initiatives.
These transformative technologies are not only making significant strides in the fight against hunger in Brazil, but they are also providing a blueprint for scalable and sustainable solutions. The convergence of data analytics, AI, sustainable agriculture, blockchain, solar power and biotechnology showcases the power of innovation in driving positive change.
Hope for the Future
Reflecting on the measurable outcomes and the impact these technologies have had on communities across Brazil, it is evident that the path to a hunger-free nation is not an insurmountable challenge. By embracing these innovative solutions and continually refining approaches, there’s hope for creating a future where hunger and poverty are relegated to the annals of history.
The journey toward a hunger-free Brazil is ongoing, pushed by the concerted efforts of organizations and initiatives that leverage transformative technologies. The measurable outcomes of these efforts serve as a testament to the power of innovation in addressing complex societal challenges.
– Osvaldo Bugelli Neto
Photo: Flickr