According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and backed by statistics from the World Bank, Africa’s electrification rate as of 2020 sat at 55%. As the continent’s economies continue to expand, IRENA suggests that renewable energy in African countries will be instrumental in meeting growing demand.
Potential for Renewable Energy in African Countries
From country to country, the story remains the same though the percentages shift around slightly. In Ghana, for example, where the electrification rate is up to 87% in urban areas, there still remains a 10% demand growth rate year on year putting pressure on infrastructure.
In rural areas, where the electrification rate is lower at 74%, Ghana’s former minister of power Kwabena Donkor expressed the government’s goal to implement small-scale renewable projects aimed at improving productivity and reducing poverty under the Sustainable Energy for All Action Plan. Several such plans are in place for numerous countries on the continent that promise to accelerate the development of renewable energy in Africa.
Across the continent, energy demand grows at more than twice the global average, and renewables seem to be a natural next step for developing economies. Over the past few decades, researchers have explored potential sites for solar, wind and hydropower plants in Ghana and many other African countries. Though some stakeholders and institutions need to ramp up their activity to meet fast-approaching electrification targets, there is visible interest and investment.
Renewable Energy in Mauritania
Though Mauritania has recovered well from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the World Bank’s April 23 Macro Poverty Outlook report for the country, the recent war in Ukraine has caused major disruptions. The report cites Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as the cause of increasing food and energy costs as well as growing external debt.
Projections indicate a potential poverty increase to 28.8% by 2023 from 26.2% in 2022. Though the World Bank expects positive medium-term GDP growth, largely due to a joint oil and gas project in conjunction with the BP oil company and neighboring Senegal, there is real concern that volatile international markets for those commodities could render growth equally so.
Looking beyond current setbacks, renewable energy stands to transform Mauritania into one of Africa’s top economies. The AMAN project, a $40 billion renewable energy project in partnership with Australia’s CWP Global, will likely produce 110 TWh of electricity between solar and wind plants as well as 1.7 million tonnes per anum of green hydrogen or 10 million tonnes per annum of green ammonia for local use and export. In a statement, CWP cited estimates that the project could potentially increase Mauritania’s GDP by between 40% and 50% by 2030 and reduce unemployment across the country by about 33% by 2035.
Renewable Energy in Tanzania
A prolonged drought in 2022 led Tanzania’s government to begin rationing electricity in response to a drop in hydropower production. Despite its installed capacity of 1600 MW, the country faced a 300 to 350 MW shortage, according to Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited managing director Maharage Chande, in an article by Voice of America.
A reliable supply of energy has been crucial in reducing Tanzania’s poverty rate ($2.15 per person per day) from 84% in 2000 to 45% in 2018. Hydropower accounts for close to half of Tanzania’s energy mix at about 45%, a number that will grow with the completion of the Julius Nyerere hydroelectric dam. When the dam reaches completion, Tanzania’s energy output could more than double from about 1,600 MW to about 3,700 MW. Projections on electricity demand, however, indicate a fourfold increase by 2025 to about 4,000 MW.
While hydropower is promising and accounts for a large portion of Tanzania’s energy mix, the East African country is in a strong position for solar power. Tanzania receives 2,800 to 3,500 hours of sunshine per year, making it a prime candidate for developing grid-connected solar power. Off-grid solar power currently powers Tanzanian schools, hospitals, health centers and households.
Renewable Energy in Senegal
According to the World Food Programme (WFP), more than a third of Senegal’s population of 17 million lives in poverty while 75% of families endure chronic conditions of poverty. Though more than 95% of urban Senegal is estimated to be connected to the grid, access to electricity in rural areas remains limited at a little more than 47% in 2020. Agricultural exports, coming largely out of Senegal’s rural regions, account for about 17% of the nation’s GDP and employ 70% of its workers, according to a 2019 publication.
As recently as January 2023, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen visited the country as part of a trip to expand U.S.-Africa ties and launch a rural electrification initiative that will rely on renewables to bring electricity to 70 villages and 350,000 rural Senegalese people. Senegal is actively interested in a transition to renewable, with President Mackey Sall’s government pursuing universal energy access and 15% renewable energy targets by 2025.
The country’s dependence on agriculture tracks with its eagerness to transition to renewables. As extreme weather conditions continue to worsen agricultural prospects, a green and electrified Senegal could significantly propel the country toward self-sustainability and provide a chance to further expand the economy.
Looking Ahead
The transition to renewable energy in African countries has the potential to improve the quality of life across Africa while reducing poverty and ensuring sustainability. From Ghana to Mauritania, Tanzania to Senegal, various initiatives and partnerships are paving the way for a renewable energy transition. Despite challenges such as infrastructure pressure, disruptions from external factors and energy shortages, these countries are actively investing in solar, wind and hydropower projects to transform their economies, reduce poverty and increase access to electricity, particularly in rural areas. Overall, the pursuit of renewable energy offers a positive path toward increased energy stability across Africa.
– Nana Yaw Acheampong
Photo: Flickr
Child Marriage in Vietnam
Causes of Child Marriage in Vietnam
Low income, low levels of education among young girls and outdated traditions are the leading causes of child marriage in Vietnam. And according to a Poverty Child article, “Poverty is one of the main causes of child marriage globally.”
Households with many occupants, especially in rural areas, do not have the funds to provide food and other necessities for all of their members. This creates a pressing situation that typically, according to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), results in any of two outcomes:
Children between the ages of 5 to 17 years end up working in hazardous environments instead of going to school.
Young girls unwillingly go into marriages with older men in a bid to relieve their poor families from providing for them. Typically, the groom pays the bride’s family a dowry in exchange for her hand in marriage. For many households, the money from the dowry is a respite from the poverty-hunger cycle.
Traditionalism is a major part of Vietnamese culture, especially in lower-income areas where education is not a priority. Within some communities, the parents of young girls consent to child marriage. Traditional families are afraid of the stigma around pre-marital sex and fear pregnancy as an outcome of letting their daughters receive education or be independent. Additionally, many societies employ shame as a tool to coerce parents into marrying off their young daughters.
Fighting Child Marriage in Vietnam
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Vietnam customarily calls on the world to end child marriage on Valentine’s Day every year. In an article published on 14th February 2022, the UNFPA said, “Child marriage is a human rights violation that often ensnares the most vulnerable, impoverished and marginalized girls.”
The EMPoWR Project
The plea was a part of UNFPA’s promotional campaign for the EMPoWR Project, which is co-funded by the Delegation of the European Union and Plan International in Belgium. The project aims to enhance awareness of ethnic minority children and young people on human trafficking and child marriage through digital technology. The EMPoWR Project resulted from a collaboration between multiple organizations, including the Department of Children under the Ministry of Labor, Plan International Vietnam and the Institute for Social Development Studies (ISDS). The project commenced in 2020 and will run through 2023, with the aim of reaching the four provinces of Ha Giang, Lai Chau, Quang Binh and Quang Tri in Vietnam.
In September 2021, the EMPoWR project expanded to establish a digital platform called ‘Em Vui’ (meaning ‘I’m Happy’ in Vietnamese), aiming to provide support to vulnerable children and young people from ethnic minorities in Vietnam. The goal of this project is to prevent human trafficking and child marriage in the country. The platform is easily accessible via social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, making it convenient and readily available for marginalized Vietnamese youth.
Reinforcing the Legislation
In 2016, a representative from the National Committee for Ethnic Minorities informed the government of the gap in legislation around protecting vulnerable minors from child marriage in Vietnam.
In January 2018, the Vietnamese government enacted a new Criminal Code to protect young women from child marriage and trafficking. The legislation also stipulated doling out harsh sentences for offenders. Under the Marriage and Family Law in Vietnam, the minimum age for marriage across the country is now 18 years for girls and 20 years for boys.
Looking Ahead
Poverty and low levels of education have been the main causes of child marriage in Vietnam. However, initiatives such as Em Vui continue to make progress in bringing about positive change, with 60% of girls with access to education reporting that they were ready to reject forced marriages in an EMPoWR survey.
– Vahisté Sinor
Photo: Flickr
A Look at Renewable Energy in African Countries
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and backed by statistics from the World Bank, Africa’s electrification rate as of 2020 sat at 55%. As the continent’s economies continue to expand, IRENA suggests that renewable energy in African countries will be instrumental in meeting growing demand.
Potential for Renewable Energy in African Countries
From country to country, the story remains the same though the percentages shift around slightly. In Ghana, for example, where the electrification rate is up to 87% in urban areas, there still remains a 10% demand growth rate year on year putting pressure on infrastructure.
In rural areas, where the electrification rate is lower at 74%, Ghana’s former minister of power Kwabena Donkor expressed the government’s goal to implement small-scale renewable projects aimed at improving productivity and reducing poverty under the Sustainable Energy for All Action Plan. Several such plans are in place for numerous countries on the continent that promise to accelerate the development of renewable energy in Africa.
Across the continent, energy demand grows at more than twice the global average, and renewables seem to be a natural next step for developing economies. Over the past few decades, researchers have explored potential sites for solar, wind and hydropower plants in Ghana and many other African countries. Though some stakeholders and institutions need to ramp up their activity to meet fast-approaching electrification targets, there is visible interest and investment.
Renewable Energy in Mauritania
Though Mauritania has recovered well from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the World Bank’s April 23 Macro Poverty Outlook report for the country, the recent war in Ukraine has caused major disruptions. The report cites Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as the cause of increasing food and energy costs as well as growing external debt.
Projections indicate a potential poverty increase to 28.8% by 2023 from 26.2% in 2022. Though the World Bank expects positive medium-term GDP growth, largely due to a joint oil and gas project in conjunction with the BP oil company and neighboring Senegal, there is real concern that volatile international markets for those commodities could render growth equally so.
Looking beyond current setbacks, renewable energy stands to transform Mauritania into one of Africa’s top economies. The AMAN project, a $40 billion renewable energy project in partnership with Australia’s CWP Global, will likely produce 110 TWh of electricity between solar and wind plants as well as 1.7 million tonnes per anum of green hydrogen or 10 million tonnes per annum of green ammonia for local use and export. In a statement, CWP cited estimates that the project could potentially increase Mauritania’s GDP by between 40% and 50% by 2030 and reduce unemployment across the country by about 33% by 2035.
Renewable Energy in Tanzania
A prolonged drought in 2022 led Tanzania’s government to begin rationing electricity in response to a drop in hydropower production. Despite its installed capacity of 1600 MW, the country faced a 300 to 350 MW shortage, according to Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited managing director Maharage Chande, in an article by Voice of America.
A reliable supply of energy has been crucial in reducing Tanzania’s poverty rate ($2.15 per person per day) from 84% in 2000 to 45% in 2018. Hydropower accounts for close to half of Tanzania’s energy mix at about 45%, a number that will grow with the completion of the Julius Nyerere hydroelectric dam. When the dam reaches completion, Tanzania’s energy output could more than double from about 1,600 MW to about 3,700 MW. Projections on electricity demand, however, indicate a fourfold increase by 2025 to about 4,000 MW.
While hydropower is promising and accounts for a large portion of Tanzania’s energy mix, the East African country is in a strong position for solar power. Tanzania receives 2,800 to 3,500 hours of sunshine per year, making it a prime candidate for developing grid-connected solar power. Off-grid solar power currently powers Tanzanian schools, hospitals, health centers and households.
Renewable Energy in Senegal
According to the World Food Programme (WFP), more than a third of Senegal’s population of 17 million lives in poverty while 75% of families endure chronic conditions of poverty. Though more than 95% of urban Senegal is estimated to be connected to the grid, access to electricity in rural areas remains limited at a little more than 47% in 2020. Agricultural exports, coming largely out of Senegal’s rural regions, account for about 17% of the nation’s GDP and employ 70% of its workers, according to a 2019 publication.
As recently as January 2023, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen visited the country as part of a trip to expand U.S.-Africa ties and launch a rural electrification initiative that will rely on renewables to bring electricity to 70 villages and 350,000 rural Senegalese people. Senegal is actively interested in a transition to renewable, with President Mackey Sall’s government pursuing universal energy access and 15% renewable energy targets by 2025.
The country’s dependence on agriculture tracks with its eagerness to transition to renewables. As extreme weather conditions continue to worsen agricultural prospects, a green and electrified Senegal could significantly propel the country toward self-sustainability and provide a chance to further expand the economy.
Looking Ahead
The transition to renewable energy in African countries has the potential to improve the quality of life across Africa while reducing poverty and ensuring sustainability. From Ghana to Mauritania, Tanzania to Senegal, various initiatives and partnerships are paving the way for a renewable energy transition. Despite challenges such as infrastructure pressure, disruptions from external factors and energy shortages, these countries are actively investing in solar, wind and hydropower projects to transform their economies, reduce poverty and increase access to electricity, particularly in rural areas. Overall, the pursuit of renewable energy offers a positive path toward increased energy stability across Africa.
– Nana Yaw Acheampong
Photo: Flickr
Aid to Developing Countries Face Extreme Weather Conditions
Developing countries are set to receive $100 billion worth of funding from wealthy countries to combat extreme weather conditions. In 2009, wealthy countries pledged to commit $100 billion annually from 2020 onward to disadvantaged countries struggling with the impacts of changing weather patterns. However, only now, three years after the pledge, these countries are on track to fully meet this commitment. On May 2, 2023, more than 40 country representatives met in Berlin, Germany, to discuss effective ways to tackle harsh weather changes.
Severe Weather Changes
Currently, the change in weather patterns is affecting people worldwide, from dried-up lakes in California and rising sea levels in Venice to mega-droughts in Somalia and floods in South Sudan. Extreme weather conditions most harshly affect impoverished people due to their dependence on vulnerable sectors such as agriculture.
In sub-Saharan Africa, 65% of the labor force works in agriculture. Floods and droughts not only destroy their source of income but also their sources of food. Extreme weather events also increase the risk and transmission of diseases such as cholera and malaria, especially among impoverished populations with high exposure to these diseases and limited access to health care.
Furthermore, impoverished people struggle to recover from extreme weather events due to a lack of access to insurance and credit. A lack of education and lack of access to information also stand as barriers to achieving climatic resilience.
The Situation in Somalia and South Sudan
Recent reports show that Somalia’s last rainfall season (October to December 2022) consisted of below-average rainfall for the fifth consecutive year, depleting water sources in the country and increasing droughts. The country is one of the worst drought-affected countries in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2011, after three back-to-back seasons without sufficient rain, the country experienced a famine that led to the deaths of about 250,000 people, with children accounting for half of this number.
Due to continuing extreme weather conditions, in the first quarter of 2023, the World Food Programme (WFP) forecasted that 6.3 million Somalis will face crisis levels of food insecurity or worse and more than 320,000 people will face catastrophic levels of food insecurity (the highest insecurity level) out of Somalia’s 17.1 million population.
South Sudan is currently facing its worst humanitarian crisis since 2011. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that at least 7.7 million people are experiencing food insecurity due to the ongoing conflict in the nation coupled with severe weather conditions.
With the conflict putting people’s lives on hold and keeping them from conducting any type of work to get money and food, alongside the increase in temperatures making the land in South Sudan barren, there is a need for aid from foreign countries and organizations like the U.N. now more than ever.
The WFP Takes Action
In December 2022, the WFP served 4.7 million people in Somalia with life-saving assistance, which came in the form of cash-based aid or food supplies. The WFP also provided aid to nearly 352,000 vulnerable people facing the effects of droughts in the country under the expansion of the national safety net program, which aims to support the poorest and most vulnerable families.
In South Sudan, the WFP handed out more than 13,880 metric tonnes of food and $3.6 million worth of cash-based aid. In February 2023 alone, the WFP assisted 1.6 million people impacted by climate effects and the nation’s internal conflict.
The WFP South Sudan director Mary-Ellen McGroarty announced that the organization needs an additional $567 million to continue covering the most severe needs in South Sudan alone, excluding the effects of the current conflict.
The WFP funding for South Sudan goes to a number of great causes. For instance, in 2022, the organization built irrigation systems in rural towns and helped local farmers gain access to larger markets. WFP programs not only provide food and cash-based assistance but also teach people how to prepare for potential extreme weather patterns and establish resilience by creating climate-smart food systems.
The Way Forward
A European Union study on changing weather effects predicted that by 2050, increased temperatures and higher demand could leave as many as 150 million people in the world severely affected by water stress. The 2023 climate pledge reaching the designated amount of $100 billion is good news for organizations helping those in need in developing countries.
Funding is essential for tackling extreme weather conditions. Hence, the $100 billion provision from developed countries will help to advance resilience and sustainability goals and address the humanitarian issues that arise from changing weather patterns.
– Sam Kalantzis
Photo: Flickr
Sustainable Fishing in Sri Lanka
The sight of traditional stilt fishing in Sri Lanka is eye-catching and unique. Fishers sit delicately poised atop wooden beams high above the Indian Ocean. Patience, balance and finesse are required for fishers to successfully pluck their catch from the waters beneath. The tradition originated from the post-World War II food shortages, but healthier food supplies mean it is now mostly performative. For this island nation of 22 million, fishing is woven into the fabric of its national identity.
Fishing in Sri Lanka
Not only is fishing in Sri Lanka significant because of its contribution to the diet of Sri Lankans, with 50% of its animal protein intake coming from seafood, but it is also an important part of its economy. Fishing provides a lucrative export market, valued at over $290m in 2022. In total fishing supports the livelihoods of around 3.6 million Sri Lankans.
For many years, environmental factors have threatened the livelihoods of fishing communities. A combination of overfishing and ecosystem damage has caused a decline in fish stocks. Furthermore, climate change has meant that destructive extreme weather events are now happening with increased regularity in Sri Lanka. Evidence from 1974 to 2004 shows floods and droughts are occurring more frequently, and projections have warned that the severity and regularity of cyclones could increase.
These already vulnerable fishing villages have faced yet more strain in the previous few years. COVID-19 has dealt a heavy blow to the fishing industry. In 2020, fish harvests declined up to 20% and exports were down as much as 26%, according to the World Bank. This forced Sri Lanka to import $218 million of fish in 2020 just to satisfy national food demands. To make matters worse, a national crisis has followed the economic downturn of COVID-19.
Economic Crisis
A gradually deepening financial crisis, which COVID-19 had exacerbated, exploded in 2022. The result has been economic and political turmoil that has had dire humanitarian consequences. Deteriorating social conditions such as fuel, food and energy shortages and heightening inflation prompted mass anti-government protests in the spring of 2022.
All 26 cabinet members other than the President and Prime Minister resigned on April 3, 2022, and less than 10 days later, Sri Lanka defaulted on its $51 billion sovereign debt payments it owed to international creditors, The Guardian reports. Months of violent protests culminated on July 9, 2022, when protesters stormed President Rajapanka’s residence and set Prime Minister Wickremesinghe’s house ablaze. The President fled to the Maldives and resigned on July 13, 2022.
The stark reality of economic collapse in people’s lives is poverty. UNICEF estimated in June 2022 that 5,711,089 people were in need of humanitarian assistance in Sri Lanka. Figures from The World Bank show that between 2019 and 2022, poverty in Sri Lanka rose from 11.3% to 25%.
Sri Lankans are still struggling to access food. In September 2022, with food inflation at 94.9%, 30% of Sri Lankans faced acute food insecurity. Although beginning to ease, food inflation in April 2023 remained high at 30.6%. These numbers create more impetus to create efficient and sustainable fishing in Sri Lanka.
Growth Opportunities
In March 2023, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a $3 billion loan to support Sri Lanka’s economic policies and reforms, targeted at the most vulnerable. This gives renewed hope for economic and social recovery.
Spoilage is an obstacle to greater revenues, especially with yellowfin tuna, one of Sri Lanka’s most popular and lucrative fish. Half of all yellowfin tuna caught is spoiled before it reaches the shore and many catches do not meet export standards, according to the World Bank. Modernizing fishing vessels to improve their refrigeration capacity and redesigning fishing routes to reduce the time boats spend at sea could both reduce instances of spoilage. This could increase revenues without the need to catch any more fish.
Making Changes
Ensuring fish stocks remain healthy is also key to achieving sustainable fishing in Sri Lanka. Protecting vulnerable species, like the yellowfin tuna, could require a commitment to conserving and even regenerating coastal ecosystems. Community involvement in assessing stock statuses to protect against overfishing could also hold significance. Achieving sustainable fishing in Sri Lanka can potentially provide an example of the kind of community-focused investment required to put the nation back on a path of stability and progress.
– Henry Jones
Peru’s Indigenous Economy: Entrepreneurship is on the Rise
Supporting Indigenous Businesses
Businesses in Peru’s indigenous economy mainly focus on agriculture, tourism and the selling of cosmetics and handicrafts like jewelry, ceramics, textiles, etc. In recent years, the Peruvian government has increased its efforts to put indigenous businesses in the spotlight. This is significant since native-owned businesses tend to be overshadowed by non-indigenous ones. For instance, in 2022 the government hosted a training program in partnership with the Australian Embassy called “Growing Indigenous Businesses Through Trade.” It was funded by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in partnership with Treasury and the National Indigenous Australians Agency. The program covered topics such as exports, identifying markets, intellectual property rights, innovative business models and business pitches.
Funding Women-Led Entrepreneurship
In November 2022, the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation financed 15 different female-led organizations as a part of the “Rural and Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Strategy” (RIWES). The money spent on each organization ranged from £12,844 to £31,467, and it came from the Rural and Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund, which has been approved to continue on for 2023. A few of the winning organizations include Santa Rosa Moquegache Japo Women’s Association for Dairy Produce, Native Community Palma Real’s Association of Female Artisans and the Esperanza del Bosque Cooperative. These organizations are able to boost Peru’s Indigenous Economy by providing sustainable business opportunities for producers to increase their income.
NGOs Supporting Entrepreneurs
Besides the funding of entrepreneurship, the RIWES will develop programs on business plans, technical assistance and agricultural technology management. It is estimated that 4,700 rural and indigenous female entrepreneurs will benefit from the RIWES’s continuation in 2023. Several NGOs support indigenous entrepreneurship as well. Additionally, Awamaki partnered with eight women-led, Andean artisan cooperatives to help them launch their products successfully in the global market. They offer these cooperatives training on quality control, product development, financial management and business leadership.
Peruvian NGO AIDER stresses the importance of entrepreneurship for Peru’s indigenous economy, stating that it leads to social inclusion, economic security and quality improvement. Besides, indigenous leadership can help ensure the preservation of the environment’s natural resources and sustainable development. Many communities such as Callería, Roya, Junín Pablo, Buenos Aires, Nuevo Loreto and Pueblo Nuevo have officially committed to environment-friendly practices and obtained certification from the Forest Stewardship Council. Finally, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an organization focused on improving the economic conditions of small-scale producers located in Peru’s northern and southern highlands region. With a total of 12 projects and an investment of 244.36 million dollars, the IFAD is estimated to have a reach of over 180,000 Peruvian households.
What’s Next?
The sustained expansion of indigenous businesses could translate into a major source of economic progress for Peru’s indigenous communities. Also, the fact that both national and international organizations, from governments to non-profits, are working to provide the necessary resources to help indigenous entrepreneurship grow suggests hope for more positive things to come.
– Luciana Mena
Photo: Pixabay
Child Poverty in Papua New Guinea: Health care and Education
Education
Only 35% of students complete primary school due to factors such as poor teacher training, low enrollment levels as well as the long and dangerous journeys many children have to embark on to get to school. A 2010 report found that the PNG government was failing to educate around 2 million elementary and primary school-aged children. This also carries into adulthood, with an estimated half of the population unable to read or write.
Improving Education
Health Care
The lack of access to basic health care impacts child poverty in PNG. Infant mortality rates and childhood malnutrition have been the highest in that region of Asia. Statistics have revealed that nearly half of children between 6 to 59 months suffer from stunting and 16% of children under the age of 5 are too thin for their height.
Improving Health Care
PNG’s neighboring country, Australia, has played an important role in supporting the health care systems. Also, with the help of World Vision International, Australia is helping to address child health care issues in PNG through a variety of routes. One solution the country has implemented is to increase education on nutrition and encourage more healthy eating driven by locally available ingredients. Through investments in health care, around 28,628 people in PNG have been provided with access to essential medical treatments.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges that children in PNG face, efforts are underway to improve their education and health care conditions. Initiatives supported by Australia and organizations like World Vision International are helping to raise education levels, remove barriers to school attendance and provide better teacher training. Additionally, investments in health care are addressing child health issues, increasing access to essential medical treatments and promoting nutrition education. These endeavors offer hope for the alleviation of child poverty in Papua New Guinea.
Photo: Flickr
Understanding and Addressing the Gender Wage Gap in Egypt
Consequences and Economic Impact on the Egyptian Economy
Social context influences labor market competition. In Egypt, women’s limited mobility, childcare responsibilities and masculine work environments hinder their job prospects and contribute to lower pay. The gender wage gap in Egypt has significant consequences on society and the economy. The wage gap exposes discriminatory practices in employment and wages, where women face disadvantages compared to men in earning income.
Furthermore, the World Bank (2021) reported that if female participation in the workforce increased, Egypt’s GDP could potentially grow by 34%. This demonstrates the untapped potential of women’s economic contributions. Women’s active involvement in the financial sector, particularly in executive and board positions, enhances the resilience and stability of the country. According to the World Bank, achieving Egypt’s Vision 2030 requires addressing the underrepresentation of women, especially at senior leadership levels.
Possible Solutions from a Governmental Aspect
The Egyptian National Council for Women (NCW) operates as an independent women’s machinery. The President of the Republic of Egypt affiliates the council, which ensures equal treatment of Egyptian women in political, economic, social and cultural aspects. Additionally, the NCW actively plans for women’s advancement. The NCW actively addresses the gender wage gap and promotes gender equality in the labor market. Furthermore, the NCW introduces Egypt’s Vision 2030, aligning it with the Sustainable Development Strategy to construct a fair and equal society.
In its report to the United Nations, the NCW outlined several measures, including the establishment of a gender-sensitive budgeting system and the development of an action plan to increase women’s representation in decision-making positions. Through entrepreneurship programs, the NCW economically empowered Egyptian women. In April 2022, the Shakia Governate program trained 136,000 women in project management, planning, marketing and entrepreneurship concepts, thereby facilitating networking and providing access to valuable services.
The NCW’s efforts to promote women’s empowerment in Egypt yielded visible progress. From 2015 to 2019, the unemployment rate for females decreased from 12.8% to 7.9%. Additionally, Egypt joined the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC) in 2018, committing to take action to close the gender pay gap by implementing policies, sharing knowledge and mobilizing resources.
Efforts from NGOs and International Organizations
Several international and non-governmental organizations have partnered with Egypt to address the gender wage gap and promote women’s economic empowerment. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been working with the Egyptian government to strengthen women’s participation in the economy by supporting policies and programs that promote gender equality, such as microfinance initiatives and vocational training for women.
USAID empowers women to close the gender wage gap in Egypt by supporting their entrepreneurial ventures. Through initiatives like the Women Entrepreneurs Network and Tiye Angels, 600 successful women-led businesses have emerged since 2017. Additionally, USAID’s Business Development Service Centers have strengthened 650 women-owned micro-enterprises. The Association for Women’s Total Advancement and Development (ATWAD) is another organization working to empower Egyptian women economically. ATWAD provides training, advocacy and capacity building for women to improve their access to resources and opportunities.
Lastly, ABAAD, a regional NGO, aims to achieve gender equality in the Middle East and North Africa region. ABAAD works in Egypt to promote equal opportunities for women in the labor market and to eliminate gender-based violence, which is a significant barrier to women’s economic participation.
Looking Ahead
Efforts to address the gender wage gap and promote women’s economic empowerment in Egypt are gaining momentum. Initiatives led by the Egyptian National Council for Women, along with collaborations with international organizations like USAID and ABAAD, are making a difference. Progress has been seen in reducing female unemployment rates and increasing women’s representation in decision-making positions. With continued commitment and support, Egypt is on the path towards achieving greater gender equality, unlocking the untapped potential of women and fostering a fair and inclusive society.
– Tanya Hamad
Photo: Flickr
Stronger Women, Stronger Nations Program Empowers Women Survivors
Recovering from the destruction and horror of war remains an inconceivably difficult task for survivors worldwide. For women especially, getting back on their feet in an already disadvantaged world can seem impossible. Women for Women International is a nonprofit supporting women survivors of war by providing them access to connections, resources and educational programs. Its Stronger Women, Stronger Nations program specifically works to not only aid recovery but also advance women’s place in society in developing countries where many conflicts occur.
Women for Women International
Since its founding in 1993, Women for Women International has helped more than 500,000 women recover from war and reach self-sufficiency. Zainab Salbi was only 23 years old when she founded the organization, eventually distributing more than $100 million in aid during her time as the CEO. Foreign Policy Magazine has since named her one of the 100 Leading Global Thinkers.
However, she is not doing her work alone. Women for Women International has representatives working in affected countries across the globe, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Afghanistan, Germany, Iraq, the United Kingdom, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, South Sudan, Rwanda and Nigeria. Each country director distributes funds and facilitates necessary workshops to help survivors support themselves. Much of this work occurs through the nonprofit’s educational program, Stronger Women, Stronger Nations.
Stronger Women, Stronger Nations
Women for Women International is a self-described “learning organization” that goes “beyond charity to innovation.” As such, representatives for Stronger Women, Stronger Nations facilitate courses customized to every country’s specific social and economic profile. Throughout the year-long program, survivors are provided with a monthly stipend of $10, relevant vocational training, financial education and lifelong connections that leave them feeling stronger than ever.
The program begins with placement into a class of 24 fellow female survivors. Each class includes five social empowerment modules (Women’s Solidarity, Value of Women’s Work, Health and Wellness, Gender Equality, Rights and Decision Making and Women Influencing Decisions in their Community). A social empowerment trainer from Women for Women International leads it. The first month focuses on social networking and numeracy training, both in the local language and English. The next two months give the women time to reflect on their war-inflicted trauma as they begin to consider the value of women’s work. By the fourth month of the program, the women are learning to set and pursue financial goals. The fifth month begins a module on health and wellness, educating the women on hygiene, sanitation and local concerns like malaria. After that, they learn vocational skills of their choosing like tailoring and poultry-keeping.
The rest of the program continues this vocational education while additionally sparking discussion on gender equality, domestic abuse, motherhood and societal change. Women also learn business skills like budgeting, bookkeeping and organizational leadership. By the time their Stronger Women, Stronger Nations class concludes, they are fully equipped to start a business, impart change in their community and create more opportunities for their families.
Lasting Impact
This innovative program continues to catch the attention of international corporate partners including Bloomberg Philanthropies, Slip®, Hyatt Hotels, Charlotte Tilbury and Jimmy Choo. Aside from donating to the Stronger Women, Stronger Nations program, several companies have expanded their reach even further. In 2012, Hyatt created jobs for 50 program members in Iraq by having them sew laundry bags for its boutique Andaz Hotels. Cosmetics brand Charlotte Tilbury donated $2 from every sale of its Hot Lips collection in 2016. It later pledged $1 million alongside the release of the Hot Lips 2 collection in 2019. Jimmy Choo has sponsored 50 women from programs in Iraq, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The effects of war remain long after a conflict resolves. Women for Women International believes that women survivors of war experience the most negative impacts, given the compounding societal factors that come with being a woman. Through its Stronger Women, Stronger Nations program, the nonprofit not only helps female survivors recover from the trauma of war but ensures that they become stronger mothers, entrepreneurs and community leaders.
– Rachel Rebecca Smith
Photo: Flickr
Human Trafficking in the U.K.
Human Trafficking and Migration in the U.K.
The Importance of Legislation
The Pushback
Reducing Human Trafficking in the U.K.
Prevention
Protection
Prosecution
Looking Ahead
– Polly Walton
Photo: Flickr
Sustainable Solutions for Energy Poverty in Uganda
Energy Sources in Uganda
In Uganda, most households use charcoal or firewood for cooking. Unfortunately, this practice is not only inefficient but also causes air pollution, which is bad for the environment and the health of people. According to the World Health Organization, indoor air pollution from solid fuels is responsible for about 3.2 million deaths globally each year, many of whom are children. Moreover, deforestation is a significant environmental issue in Uganda, as forests cover only about 12% of the country’s land area.
Moses recognized that agricultural waste, such as maize cobs and sugarcane bagasse, could be transformed into clean and efficient cooking fuel. He started Eco-Fuel Africa in 2010 with the goal of promoting a circular economy that would create value from waste while reducing environmental degradation and improving livelihoods.
Utilizing Agricultural Waste
Eco-Fuel Africa’s process involves collecting agricultural waste from farms and markets, transporting it to the company’s processing facility and transforming it into briquettes through a carbonization process. The briquettes are then sold to households, institutions and businesses as an alternative to charcoal and firewood. The fuel burns longer and hotter than traditional fuels. It produces less smoke, reducing indoor air pollution and respiratory diseases and creating a sustainable solution for energy poverty in Uganda.
EFA has helped disadvantaged women in Africa become micro-retailers of eco-friendly charcoal. Its approach involves visiting villages, identifying these marginalized women and providing them with training. EFA also constructs basic kiosks for each of them to use as retail shops for selling green charcoal within their local communities. To date, EFA has established hundreds of female retailers in Uganda, each earning a minimum of $152 monthly from selling eco-friendly charcoal.
Looking Ahead
Eco-Fuel Africa’s impact has been significant. The company has displaced thousands 0f tons of charcoal and firewood, reduced deforestation and improved the health and livelihoods of thousands of households. Moses’ innovative approach to waste management and sustainable energy has inspired other entrepreneurs and organizations to adopt similar models in Uganda and beyond.
Sanga Moses and Eco-Fuel Africa’s work exemplifies how social entrepreneurship can address pressing environmental and social challenges while promoting sustainable development and economic empowerment.
– Nino Basaria
Photo: Flickr