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Africa’s Leadership in the High Seas Treaty: Securing Food Futures

HIGH SEAS TREATYIn September 2025, the High Seas Treaty, officially termed the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), achieved the threshold required for entry into force, a pivotal milestone in protecting the world’s oceans and strengthening Africa’s role in global ocean governance.

The treaty introduces the first global, legally binding framework to conserve marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Although global attention centers on the treaty’s environmental impact, Africa highlights a human dimension safeguarding livelihoods, food and survival for millions of individuals who depend on the sea. This moment also cements Africa’s role in global ocean governance, showing how the continent aligns environmental governance with development goals.

Oceans and Africa’s Fight for Food Security

In many African nations, the ocean forms the backbone for daily survival, feeding families and supporting trade and employment. For Africa, protecting the oceans is directly linked to protecting people’s jobs and food sources. A World Bank report highlighted the key contribution of fisheries to food availability across the continent: “The sector presents a key social safety net… on average, fish and fish products account for 18% of animal protein intake by African consumers, and the sector provides employment to over 12 million people.” Greenpeace Africa noted that “Over 200 million Africans depend on fish as a primary source of protein.” However, years of unsustainable fishing practices and climate change have severely reduced fish populations and threatened food security across Africa.

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, the High Seas Treaty seeks to tackle these challenges through a global framework aimed at conserving marine life, governing activities on the high seas and ensuring the fair sharing of ocean resources.

For coastal African states that rely heavily on the migration of fish species, stronger high-seas governance offers a pathway to improve food security and sustain employment for millions.
 Khan stated that “diets of fish and aquatic foods provide animal-source protein, omega-3 fatty acids and micronutrients, including both vitamins and minerals, necessary for both the ill and the healthy,” reinforcing the importance of aquatic foods as a cornerstone of nutrition in Africa.

Africa’s Ocean Diplomacy

Africa’s role in global ocean governance has expanded significantly in recent years, with the continent taking on a central role in shaping international marine policy. Throughout the High Seas Treaty negotiations, the African group pushed for fairer systems of benefit-sharing and greater technical support for developing nations. Their advocacy helped secure provisions linking ocean conservation with fairer access to the sustainable use of ocean life for developing states. The treaty establishes practical tools to safeguard marine ecosystems.

Blue Diplomacy

For Africa, the High Seas Treaty marks a pivotal shift in its participation within global frameworks for ocean protection and environmental cooperation. Ambassador Michael Kanu, Sierra Leone’s lead negotiator, explained that by acting collectively, African countries ensured their interests were built into the framework shaping how the world manages the high seas. Naidoo described this proactive diplomacy as demonstrating “the continent’s ability to shape global norms, rather than merely adapt to them,” reflecting an emerging form of blue diplomacy. By signing on to the treaty, South Africa reinforced the message that caring for shared oceans is essential not just for the planet’s health but for Africa’s future prosperity.

Oceans and Survival

Senegal’s story highlights that ocean policy in Africa is not only about making agreements but about protecting lives. The decline of local fish stocks has forced many to leave in search of work elsewhere. The Environmental Justice Foundation reported that over half of Senegal’s fisheries are now depleted, while almost half of the boats allowed to fish there belong to foreign companies. As a result, large vessels have emptied the seas and ruined habitats, reducing the incomes of small local fishers.

The decline in fish availability has pushed many coastal workers to migrate irregularly toward the Canary Islands, a journey known for its high death toll.

Each year, West African nations lose an estimated $9.4 billion to illegal fishing operations, which account for around a third of the total fish caught across West African waters, according to the Stimson Center. But the damage goes beyond money, as illegal fishing undermines local governance and destroys jobs, threatening millions across the region.

A Humanitarian Frontier

As the High Seas Treaty comes into force, African nations are emerging as central players in shaping how the world governs the oceans. Their engagement goes beyond diplomacy and reflects a matter of survival. Africa’s role in global ocean governance will be crucial in defining how shared marine resources are protected and managed. For countless African communities, this effort is not just about safeguarding the environment but about keeping the ocean as a reliable source of food on their tables.

– Ciara Moore

Ciarais based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Maternal and Child Malnutrition in Afghanistan

Malnutrition in AfghanistanWith more than 15 million people in Afghanistan experiencing acute food insecurity, women and children are facing the brunt of this harsh reality. Afghanistan is among the most dangerous countries for babies, children and mothers, with soaring rates of malnutrition and access to health care beyond reach for many.

Causes of the Afghan Food Crisis

The high levels of food instability in Afghanistan are driven primarily by a fragile economy, exacerbated by sociopolitical turmoil and environmental disasters. These disasters have recently had an especially severe impact on food security, as about 80% of Afghanistan’s population consists of farmers who rely on their own production for sustenance and income. Because of environmental instability, harvests are often lost or missed due to displacement, leaving markets empty.

Social mores and low health literacy also hinder women’s access to and understanding of proper nutrition for themselves and their children. Taliban restrictions on women’s education and mobility have severely curtailed their access to care. Additionally, increased poverty means that many women, especially pregnant women, are unable to utilize health care services such as perinatal visits.

Women are also unable to travel without being escorted by a male relative, hindering their access to pre- and postnatal care. The systematic stripping of women’s autonomy in Afghanistan means that malnutrition is having disastrous consequences for pregnant women, mothers and their children. On top of these, donor funding and NGO intervention were cut following the Taliban takeover in 2021, as Taliban policies limited how much donors were willing to help.

Health Care System

Afghanistan’s health care system is highly reliant on foreign aid. When this abruptly stopped in 2021, preventative education and care for those malnourished ceased, affecting women and children the most. Sanctions were imposed on the Taliban government, further restricting Afghan citizens’ access to food and medical supplies.

This crisis has been exacerbated by Afghanistan’s largest donor, the U.S., halting nearly all aid earlier this year. John Aylieff, the WFP’s country director, underscored the impact of these cuts, stating, “Food assistance kept a lid on this country hunger and malnutrition… The lid has now been lifted. The soaring of malnutrition is placing the lives of more than three million children in peril.”

Consequences of Malnutrition for Mothers and Their Children

The year began in Afghanistan with one of the highest recorded increases in child malnutrition, with only 12% of children aged 6 to 24 months receiving adequate quantities and quality of food. The food crisis also has a deeply gendered dimension. According to UNICEF, women are disproportionately affected and the gender gap in food access continues to widen.

Women’s and girls’ health is crucial to infants’ health, as malnutrition creates an intergenerational cycle. When women lack adequate nutrition, rates of undernourished children rise, with devastating consequences for growth and learning. According to the U.N., nearly half of all Afghan children are stunted due to limited diets.

Since the Taliban takeover, the situation has only continued to worsen and new insights have come forth in a report by Johns Hopkins titled “The Crisis of Maternal and Child Health in Afghanistan.” One third of the health professionals interviewed have perceived that infant and maternal mortality have increased. Another lamented that women in labor or those with sick children do not come to clinics for lack of money or fears of the Taliban.

The rise in child mortality is visible across Afghanistan. At the Sheidaee graveyard, BBC journalists counted graves with no official records. They found that roughly two-thirds belonged to children. They also visited the malnutrition ward of Badakhshan Regional Hospital, where 26 children shared 12 beds.

The youngest patient, Sana, was only three months old and suffered from malnutrition, acute diarrhea and a cleft lip. When journalists followed up with her family, they learned that Sana had sadly passed away.

What Is Being Done?

Despite this, there has been a shift toward community-based prevention efforts to aid malnutrition in women and children. In August this year, UNICEF and the WFP launched a joint plan to stop child wasting in Afghanistan. This action reinforces the importance of maternal nutrition, local food solutions and the convergence of community-based services.

What is evident here is a renewed push to address the root causes of malnutrition. They have pledged to ensure malnourished children receive treatment and help break the intergenerational cycle by improving breastfeeding practices and nutrition education. The WFP has also offered women safe spaces through its skills training and livelihood programs, which offer women the opportunity to earn an income and build a community.

While there have been significant strides to address malnutrition in Afghanistan, aid is under constant threat of being slashed due to funding cuts. As UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell commented, “When a girl or woman does not get adequate nutrition, gender inequality is perpetuated.” A well-balanced diet is the bedrock of child survival, so it is integral that life-saving support is directed to those who need it most.

– Libby Foxwell

Libby is based in Sherborne, Dorset and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Mozambique’s Gas Boom: Hidden Frontier for US & UK Businesses

Mozambique’s Gas BoomMozambique, long considered one of Africa’s most underserved nations, is rapidly transforming into a strategic frontier for foreign investment. At the heart of this shift is the country’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector. In Mozambique, multi-billion-dollar projects like Coral South and the newly approved Coral North are unlocking some of the world’s largest untapped gas reserves.

Once operational, these ventures are expected to propel Mozambique into the ranks of the top LNG exporters. They will create ripples across global energy markets and open the door to a new wave of commercial opportunities in support of Mozambique’s gas boom.

Opportunities Beyond Extraction

While the LNG projects themselves are monumental, the real story extends far beyond gas extraction. As production scales up, Mozambique faces immense demand for supporting infrastructure, from ports and pipelines to power grids and roads, much of which remains underdeveloped. This is where U.S. and U.K. companies can play a transformative role.

Firms specializing in construction, renewable-gas integration and smart-grid technologies are well-positioned to secure lucrative contracts and help build the backbone of Mozambique’s energy economy. The ripple effect also touches a range of secondary industries. With energy companies required to meet local content mandates, there is a growing need for partnerships with domestic suppliers and investments in workforce training.

This opens opportunities for foreign firms to provide technical expertise, vocational education and digital platforms that enhance supply chain transparency and efficiency. Services like environmental monitoring, data analytics and risk management are areas where Western firms have strong expertise and are increasing in demand.

Navigating Risks and Realities

Mozambique’s LNG potential comes with significant challenges. Political instability and insurgent violence in the northern Cabo Delgado Province, where much of the gas infrastructure is located, have disrupted projects in the past. TotalEnergies’ $25-30 billion LNG development, for example, was halted in 2021 due to security concerns and is only now preparing to resume.

These realities underscore the importance of risk-management solutions, from security services and insurance to governance consulting, all areas where foreign firms can contribute valuable capabilities. International institutions and export-credit agencies are also stepping in to mitigate risk. The U.S. Export-Import Bank, for example, has provided $4.7 billion in financing to support LNG development.

Multilateral banks are also exploring ways to stabilize the region and attract more investors. Such mechanisms lower entry barriers for private companies and signal growing confidence in Mozambique’s economic future through a gas boom.

Fueling Broader Development

The significance of Mozambique’s gas boom extends beyond energy exports. LNG revenues could finance major improvements in education, health care and public services, while expanded infrastructure will support agriculture, manufacturing and other non-energy sectors. As the economy diversifies and consumer spending grows, new markets for goods and services will emerge, creating a virtuous cycle of growth that benefits both local populations and international investors.

Profit and Purpose Aligned

For U.S. and U.K. businesses seeking strategic entry points into the Global South, Mozambique represents more than a commercial prospect; it is a chance to be part of a nation’s transformation. By investing not only in extraction but in the broader ecosystem surrounding LNG, companies can align profit with long-term development goals. Mozambique’s gas boom is about more than energy; it’s about building the foundations of a new economy.

For those willing to look beyond traditional markets, this hidden frontier offers both strategic advantage and lasting impact.

– Nilay Ersoy

Nilay is based in Cambridge, MA, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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What You Need to Know About Adult Education in Kenya

What You Need to Know About Adult Education in Kenya Education is one of the most effective tools for alleviating poverty, especially in developing countries. It drives economic growth, promotes equality, reduces mortality rates and violence, fosters civic engagement and supports sustainable development.

Over the past few decades, Kenya has made significant progress in expanding access to education. The country now has one of the highest adult literacy rates in Sub-Saharan Africa, rising from 61.5% in 2007 to 82.9% in 2025. However, challenges remain. High primary and secondary school dropout rates and limited access to post-primary education make adult education programs vital for bridging education gaps and promoting gender and regional equality across Kenya.

The Right to Education in Kenya

Kenya’s constitution guarantees every citizen the right to a basic education. Recognizing this, Kenya established the Department of Adult Education in 1979 to create adult education centers and literacy programs nationwide. In 2002, the department moved to the Ministry of Education and saw an increase in enrollment from 250,000 adult learners in 2007 to 291,000 in 2012. As of 2025, Kenya has about 3,219 adult education centers across all 47 counties. Through Vision 2030 and Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) programs, Kenya aims to achieve 100% adult literacy nationwide.

High Dropout Rates and Disparities in Early Education

Despite high enrollment rates and free primary and secondary education, dropout rates remain high, resulting in decreased adult literacy:

  • Pre-COVID enrollment rates sat at 93%.
  • Only 63% of boys and 68% of girls complete primary education.
  • Only 53% of students continue to secondary education.

Young girls are disproportionately affected and face higher secondary school dropout rates due to factors such as early marriage, pregnancy, poverty, cultural pressures and lack of mentorship. This contributes to higher rates of female illiteracy among adults. Regional and economic disparities, especially in rural and low-income areas, also pose barriers to completing early education and contribute to adult literacy gaps.

What Adult Education in Kenya Offers

Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) programs provide basic education and life skills training to adults and out-of-school youth (15+ years). In 2017, Kenya introduced the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), expanding access to online learning and digital skills training for the 21st century. The curriculum includes:

  • Literacy and numeracy
  • Digital and computer literacy
  • Agricultural, job readiness and entrepreneurship training
  • Financial literacy
  • Community learning projects and participation

For women who had to drop out of early education, ACE programs offer valuable opportunities to continue learning. Data from 1990, 2000, 2005 and 2023 consistently show that women make up the majority of adult learners. In 2023, 63.1% of all adult learners were women.

The Impact of Adult Education

Adult education benefits individuals and communities by helping learners:

  • Start businesses, manage finances and gain financial independence
  • Use technology for work and communication
  • Improve household food security through agricultural skills
  • Take on leadership roles in their communities
  • Access health care and government services
  • Advocate against gender-based violence and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation
  • Promote gender equality and social inclusion

Fluctuations in Adult Education Enrollment

  • From 1990 to 2000, enrollment dropped from 147,940 learners to 93,903.
  • When the Department of Adult Education moved to the Ministry of Education, adult learners increased to 107,662 in 2005, 250,000 in 2007 and peaked at 291,000 in 2012.
  • However, enrollment has declined in recent years. Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) shows a 9.5% decrease from 138,628 in 2022 to 125,402 learners in 2023.

Persistent Challenges in Adult Education

Despite progress in access and quality, enrollment has declined due to several socio-cultural, logistical and structural barriers.

Stigma and Socio-Cultural Barriers:

  • Adults may feel shame or discouragement about attending school with or near children.
  • Cultural norms discourage women from participating.
  • Kenya’s many languages and dialects can limit inclusivity and access.

Logistical and Structural Barriers:

  • There is a shortage of educators, and many are unpaid, untrained or retiring without replacements.
  • Learners often have limited time and scheduling conflicts due to work or childcare.
  • Social events and irregular schedules cause frequent absences.
  • Rural areas face transport, infrastructure and technology barriers to both in-person and online classes.
  • Programs and learners often lack consistent funding for renting classroom space, purchasing furniture and supplies, and paying educators and tuition.

Strengthening Adult Education in Kenya

To overcome these challenges and reach the goals outlined in Kenya’s Vision 2030, the Department of Adult Education and nonprofit groups are working to:

  • Expand access and participation in adult learning
  • Improve teaching quality and education infrastructure
  • Promote digital and e-learning platforms
  • Create inclusive and stigma-free learning environments

Looking Ahead

Adult education provides a life-changing opportunity for many Kenyans to gain essential skills and knowledge and offers a promising path toward nationwide poverty alleviation and gender equality. While there has been progress, addressing the barriers behind declining enrollment rates remains crucial to achieving inclusive and quality education for all.

– Dylan Kretchmar

Dylan is based in Granville, OH, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Restoring Guatemala’s Motagua River and Communities

Guatemala’s Motagua RiverFor a large percentage of rural Guatemalans, rivers function as important lifelines that provide water for drinking, cooking and agriculture. Yet decades of neglect and poor waste management have turned rivers like the Motagua, Guatemala’s largest watercourse, into polluted landfills and made them breeding grounds for disease. To address the problem, a mix of private, governmental and grassroots organizations has banded together to begin restoring Guatemala’s Motagua River and communities.

The Motagua River’s Importance

Communities settled along the banks of the Motagua River are among the most vulnerable in Guatemala, where 56% of country at large is already living in poverty. Many rural and indigenous families depend on the river for daily survival despite its contamination by plastic waste and untreated sewage.

Because of underdeveloped infrastructure, they do not have another choice: 40% of Guatemalans lack access to running water and basic plumbing inside their homes, forced to rely on rivers, wells or rainwater, which is why, in the interim, successfully restoring Guatemala’s Motagua River and communities is crucial.

The Cost of Polluted Waters

The Motagua River carries almost 20,000 tons of solid waste annually as it passes through nearly 100 municipalities before emptying into the Caribbean Sea. For the impoverished communities relying on it as a daily water source, this poses a serious health risk.

Contaminated water spreads illnesses and diseases like diarrhea and hepatitis, particularly affecting children and the elderly. Costs linked to treating these maladies exacerbate existing poverty conditions and reduce quality of life.

Pollution also damages economic livelihoods. Motagua River fish populations have plummeted and farmers relying on river water for irrigation risk crop contamination or die-off. With few resources and limited state support, entire communities face food insecurity and economic instability.

Cleanup and Restoration Efforts

Multi-partnership cleanup initiatives have begun to address the growing crisis. Nonprofit organizations like The Ocean Cleanup, in partnership with Kia and Guatemala’s Ministry of Environment, have deployed interception systems in the Motagua River to catch plastic before it reaches the Caribbean Sea, improving the health of the river, the lives of the riverfront residents and raising awareness of the link between responsible disposal practices and health.

Grassroots groups are also mobilizing. The Alliance for the Motagua River brings together NGOs such as the Ocean Legacy Foundation, community leaders and local governments under an “EPIC” strategy: Education, Policy, Infrastructure and Cleanup, to usher in lasting change. This community-driven approach galvanizes local communities to improve their surroundings, and therefore their food and water security.

These cleanup initiatives dedicated to restoring Guatemala’s Motagua River and communities recognize the link between environmental and economic health. Safe water improves food security and supports agriculture, while the replenishment of fish stocks, in addition to sustenance, provides economic improvement. The World Bank states that healthy watercourses are vital to sustainable development and resilient local economies, paving the way for poverty reduction.

Restoration and Renewal

Restoring Guatemala’s Motagua River and communities is both an environmental and humanitarian mission rolled into one. Access to clean water forms the basis of health, education and livelihood, especially for Guatemala’s indigenous and rural communities. Realizing the goal of a clean river is one more step toward humanitarian and economic stability.

The Motagua River’s restoration shows that collaboration between communities, governments and global partners can lead to lasting impact. As Guatemala moves toward a sustainable water future, its riverbanks may once again become places of life, resilience and renewal, giving it the stable bedrock necessary to focus on expanding water infrastructure and lifting its riverfront communities permanently out of poverty.

– Nikola Stojkovic

Nikola is based in Villa Park, IL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Gaming as an Activist

gamingIn the U.S., 85% of teens report playing video games; this has become a part of daily life for millions and is particularly prevalent in the younger generation. This provides a new platform to mobilize and educate young people on, which charities and content creators have started to make use of. Through challenges and games that attract enormous audiences, millions have been raised for causes that help alleviate global poverty, creating opportunities for gaming to be a great success as an activist.

Stream for Humanity

In January 2025, the French streamer AnimeMaTue organized “Stream for Humanity,” a 48 hour charity streaming event on Twitch. The stream featured many prominent French streamers like Squeezie, Michou and Gotaga, who engaged in challenges, gaming sessions and tournaments, all while raising awareness for the impactful work of their chosen organization.

The event was a huge success, raising more than $4 million for Médecins Sans Frontières, a French humanitarian aid organization and their work specifically in four conflict zones: Sudan, Palestine, Lebanon and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The event attracted more than 560,000 spectators and accumulated 2,4000 donations per minute at it’s peak.

Jingle Jam

Since its creation in 2011, Jingle Jam – a charity set up by hosts of the YouTube channel Yogscast – has raised more than $33 million for various charities. The streaming occurs around Christmas time every year on Twitch and has attracted more than 40 million views in the last 4 years. In 2024, the event raised more than $2 million for eight charities. This includes War Child, an organization focusing on reaching children as early as possible in situations of conflict. Advocating for children’s rights, access to education, safety and ability to heal is at the heart of their mission.

Care Gaming

The #CAREgaming program partners with gamers, streamers and organizations to support and raise awareness of other CARE initiatives. The charity has given humanitarian relief and introduced poverty-fighting programs in 121 countries, which has helped more than 53 million people.

From its #CAREgaming initiative, the organization raised more than $2 million, which has helped support disaster relief in areas like Ukraine, Syria and Turkey. Professional esports and entertainment brand FaZe Clan have used this programme to contribute to charity in their tournaments, most famously their #FIGHT2FUND online tournament they organized in 2020.

Dan and Phil Streams for Palestine

Dan and Phil, one of the U.K.’s most iconic gaming duos, have done many charitable streams, including their birthday stream for Phil that raised more than $100,000. This impactful amount came from a stream of less than two hours, showing how impactful gaming as an activist can be when awareness is given to important world issues.

All money went to the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund, which is a humanitarian medical relief organization working to provide free medical care to injured and ill children. Since their founding in 1991, they’ve been able to send more than 2000 children abroad for free medical care and have bought humanitarian aid to tens of thousands of children who would otherwise not receive it. The organization is a nonprofit and donations like this this are extremely important for their work to continue.

Games Done Quick

This is a series of charity video game marathons that include speed runners playing games as fast as they can in order to raise money for various nonprofit organizations. They run multiple events per year, including the Summer Games Done Quick, which raises money for Doctors Without Borders. Since these week-long marathons began in 2010, more than $54 million has been raised for charity.

Their chosen charity, Doctors Without Borders, takes action to save lives in areas of conflict, natural disasters and epidemics. They provide medical care in more than 70 countries, in 2023 admitting more than 1.3 million people into their hospitals. They hold millions of consultations at hospitals, mobile clinics and refugee camps, advocating for every person’s right to medical care.

The Future

Gaming and streaming have become a huge way to raise money for charities, as well as awareness for world issues. When popular gamers and influential people in the gaming industry speak out, people listen, leading to massive ripple effects in wider communities. Utilizing gaming as a way to help poverty creates opportunities for gaming as an activist to have great effects on the world. This also allows audiences, especially young people to consume content and education in the ways they prefer.

– Abigail Gadsden

Abigail is based in Kent, UK and focuses on Good News, Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Child Poverty in Ghana: How Al-Ayn is Working to Solve It

Child Poverty in GhanaGhana is a West African nation with Côte d’Ivoire to its west, Burkina Faso to its north, Togo to its east and the Atlantic Ocean to its south. Ghana is a low-income state, and children are particularly affected by poverty. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), three-quarters of Ghanaian children are deprived in at least three dimensions of poverty. Al-Ayn is an organization that works with children across the world to bring them out of poverty and has recently started working in Ghana. It addresses poverty in a multidimensional sense, focusing on numerous areas rather than just income.

How Poverty Affects Children in Ghana

  • Health. In Ghana, one in 17 children do not survive to adulthood. This is largely due to disease and malnutrition, facilitated by overburdened and ineffective infrastructure. In 2018, 97.4% of children under five years old who were malnourished were classed as underweight, wasting or stunted. This shows that food security is a problem for young children. Alongside malnutrition, child labor has a negative effect on children’s health. More than 20% of children between 5 and 17 years old engage in child labor, mostly in the cocoa business where they are exposed to dangerous chemicals such as mercury.
  • Education. Education is important for Ghanaian children because it can allow them to pull themselves out of poverty in adulthood. However, Ghana’s rapid population growth has caused significant overcrowding in classrooms, limiting the effectiveness of education. Ghana’s literacy rate is around 80%, which is high compared to other African countries, but only 47% of Ghanaian children complete lower secondary education. Although primary education and, to an extent, secondary education are both free, major inequality remains.
  • Housing and Sanitation. Living conditions are closely linked to both health and education for children in Ghana. Many impoverished children live in unhygienic and sometimes dangerous conditions. Lack of clean drinking water causes the spread of diseases such as cholera and various parasitic infections. Beyond the immediate effects of disease, this also disrupts children’s education. Unreliable housing and sanitation negatively affect children later in life, stunting immune system growth and impeding development.

The Impacts of Al-Ayn

Al-Ayn is a nongovernmental organization that has worked with children, particularly orphans, around the world who are living in poverty. It focuses on these children because they are among the most vulnerable members of society. Al-Ayn was influential in Iraq, helping more than 170,000 orphaned children gain access to housing, education and health care.

Al-Ayn has been tackling child poverty in Ghana since 2021. Its focus is on the multidimensional nature of poverty, addressing it from multiple angles. Al-Ayn focuses on health care, education, housing and sanitation. Although separate, these areas are closely linked and work together to improve the environment in which impoverished children grow up.

Al-Ayn is largely a boots-on-the-ground organization, directly involving itself with orphaned children in particular. As of 2023, more than 160 orphans in Ghana have been supported by Al-Ayn through safe housing and sanitation, reliable health care and effective education. Another important way Al-Ayn has been helping children and families in Ghana is by assisting them in obtaining legal documentation. This gives them a better chance of receiving education, health care and employment. Legal documentation also makes children and families eligible for government programs, which can help lift them out of poverty.

Looking Ahead

Child poverty in Ghana is a national problem that affects millions of children across the country. However, Al-Ayn’s work offers reason for optimism. Its multidimensional approach, combined with its continued commitment, is helping improve the lives of children in Ghana.

– Oliver Evans

Oliver is based in Devon, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Vocational Training Centers in the Philippines

Vocational Training Centers in the PhilippinesRecent data from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) indicates a steady increase in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) enrollment from 2020 to 2024. Over the last five years, from 2020 to 2024, the TVET Sector in the Philippines has shown a “consistent upward trend” in both enrollment and graduation outcomes. During these five years, numerous TVET programs enrolled a “total of 6,549,726” Filipinos. Vocational education training centers in the Philippines are crucial for providing employable skills, reducing unemployment and creating new opportunities both domestically and internationally.

What Is Vocational Training?

Vocational training provides practical skills and information for specific jobs or trades, often through apprenticeships, technical schools or degree programs, while academic education focuses on theoretical knowledge. Today, the demand for vocational skills has never been higher. Approximately 94% of skilled trade workers report that their occupations are in demand among employers, while 89% claim they use modern technology.

History of Vocational Training in the Philippines

The Vocational Act of 1927 established vocational education training centers in the Philippines during the American colonial era. Subsequent laws, including Commonwealth Act No. 313 and Republic Act No. 3742, improved the system.

Also known as the “Technical Education and Skills Development Act of 1994,” the National Manpower and Youth Council (NMYC) and the Bureau of Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE), were combined to become TESDA by Republic Act No. 7796. President Fidel V. Ramos signed it into law on August 25, 1994, combining efforts in both technical and vocational education training.

Role of TESDA

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in the Philippines is crucial for managing technical education and skills development. It establishes national standards, regulates educational institutions and implements training programs to improve job readiness, promote social justice and meet global market demands. TESDA aims to provide quality technical education and certification programs to Filipinos, alleviate global poverty, create job opportunities and boost global competitiveness through technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

Types of Vocational Training Centers in the Philippines

There are six different types of vocational training centers in the Philippines, including government-run centers, TESDA training centers, local government initiatives, private institutions, accredited technical-vocational schools, industry-partnered training centers and community-based training.

TESDA Technology Institutions are made up of 125 schools, regional, provincial and specialized training schools across the country that provide direct training for TESDA. Examples of these training centers include the MFI Technological Institute, located in Pasig City and the Quickskills Training Center in Manila.

Courses and Programs Offered

TESDA offers a wide range of courses and programs to fulfill the demands of specific industries in the Philippines. It frequently provides courses in automotive, welding, electrical installation, caregiving, hospitality and information and communication technology (ICT). There are also new programs in renewable energy systems, animation, digital marketing and e-commerce. There is a complete list of available courses individuals can take on the TESDA website, ranging from 2D animation, all the way to health care-related courses such as nursing.

Poverty and Unemployment in the Philippines

Vocational education training centers in the Philippines can help break the cycle of poverty and unemployment by providing essential skills for better-paying formal jobs. Lack of education and skills leads to worse labor market outcomes, and these centers help individuals move beyond low-wage temporary jobs, improving employment and earnings potential.

The government is working to train Filipino workers for higher-skilled positions, such as in analytics and artificial intelligence, software development and security and business process management, through a new program funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). It aims to expand the number of formal jobs in the private sector by “an average of 600,000 to 700,000 jobs” per year.

Impact on Employment and the Economy

Vocational education training centers in the Philippines improve job outcomes by equipping students with in-demand skills, leading to graduates working in major industries like construction, hospitality and health care, which reduces unemployment and promotes small business growth and improves the economy as a whole.

According to TESDA’s 2022 Study on the Employment of TVET Graduates, the average employment rate for TVET graduates over the last five years is 74.76, which equates to about seven out of every 10 TVET graduates being employed at the time of the survey.

Challenges That Vocational Training Centers Face

Vocational education training centers in the Philippines face challenges like inadequate funding, outdated technology and inconsistent teaching quality, particularly in rural areas. Many consider technical-vocational education inferior to college degrees, hindering enrollment and accessibility.

The government is enhancing accessibility, relevance, and employment outcomes through TESDA initiatives like the Eight-Point Agenda and the National Technical Education and Skills Development Plan (NTESDP), while promoting private sector engagement for better training programs.

Innovations and Technology

The Philippines is enhancing its vocational training through online courses, mobile labs and updated curricula in fields such as renewable energy and robotics, thereby closing the skills gap and preparing Filipinos for both domestic and international job markets.

By introducing innovative approaches such as welding simulation, robotics integration and computer-aided design, TESDA is preparing learners for industries that are being shifted by automation, artificial intelligence and digital transformation. TESDA has enrolled more than 5 million learners since 2022, with approximately 4.5 million graduates. Many of them have gained national certifications, which have helped them find jobs overseas.

Future of Vocational Training in the Philippines

The Philippines plans to enhance vocational training through public-private partnerships and technical-vocational programs in senior high school courses, focusing on digital tools and industry skills to make it a viable career option.

The National Technical Education and Skills Development Plan (NTESDP) for 2023-2028 aims to offer Filipinos lifelong learning opportunities and innovative skills through future-ready TVET programs, improved higher education, partnerships with NGAs, technical-vocational institutions and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), such as universities and colleges.

TVET programs must strengthen their position as a vital access, inclusion and mobility vehicle in the country, creating economic opportunities for individuals experiencing poverty, geographical and cultural isolation and physical disadvantages. They should assist the transition to green, digital and knowledge economies, as well as advocate for flexible educational pathways and recognition of talents acquired outside of the classroom.

Conclusion

Vocational education training centers in the Philippines play an essential role in providing millions of Filipinos with important skills for today’s labor market. If the government, businesses and communities are able to work together to invest more resources, reduce stigma and increase access, every Filipino may be able to take advantage of these opportunities and contribute to the country’s development and economic growth.

– Katelyn Leano

Katelyn is based in Plainfield, IL, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Everything To Know About Poverty in Bulgaria 

Poverty in BulgariaFor a substantial portion (approximately 21.7% or 1.5 million in 2024) of Bulgaria’s population, poverty is an inescapable reality. Vulnerable citizens, especially Romani people, are born into families with little access to basic needs, such as education, housing and employment, further maintaining the cycle of systemic inequality. Recently, however, the nation’s government and nonprofits have been taking measurable steps toward a brighter outlook by reducing the risk of poverty for more than 1 million individuals since 2015. Understanding poverty in Bulgaria starts with recognizing who is experiencing the most impact and why the hardships persist, and the actions organizations are taking to alleviate the conditions of poverty in Bulgaria.

Who Faces the Greatest Risk

The effects of poverty disproportionately impact children and Romani communities. About 28.2% of Bulgarian minors were at risk of poverty in a 2024 report; four-fifths of them were born into households with parents who had not completed more than ISCED Level 1 education. Systematic inequality continues to affect Romani peoples’ access to basic needs unduly. The income inequality is especially notable, as the region with the lowest GDP per capita in the European Union, Severozapaden, also reports the lowest life expectancy.

Numerous interconnected factors have been maintaining this state of affairs, and their consequences are evident. While average wages and the poverty line have increased in recent years, they remain among the lowest in the EU. Individuals working in low-value-added industries (agriculture, most commonly) struggle most with poverty in Bulgaria. Due to low birth rates and emigration, Bulgaria’s population has dropped by nearly 25% since 1990. While rural communities are most subject to depopulation and low investment, economic growth remains concentrated in Sofia.

Social Transfers and EU Cohesion Funds

To support the impoverished, several government and NGO interventions have been implemented and are underway. Pensions, child allowances and other governmental social transfers are serving hundreds of thousands of households that were previously facing the predicament of whether to cut back on essentials in order to provide their children with food and school supplies. Such transfers decreased the likelihood of child poverty by 13.6 percentage points in 2023. Funding from the EU is especially important in facing regional imbalances and persistent poverty. The EU Cohesion Policy for 2021–2027 continues to support the improvement of infrastructure, as well as increased employment opportunities and vocational training. Additionally, billions of leva have been allocated by the Human Resources Development Programme to promote entrepreneurial activity, fund improved childcare and train employees. According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, hundreds of thousands of Bulgarians have completed the training.

An NGO’s Impact

According to the European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN), Bulgaria not only advocates for fairer wages and more inclusive social policies, but also directly assists households during energy crises. Thousands of families received such energy assistance, according to the EAPN’s 2023 Poverty Watch. The group has demanded that the government raise the minimum wage and pension, tax more equitably and guarantee that all disadvantaged populations receive proper support.

Looking Ahead

Bulgaria is moving towards the goal of leaving no one behind, thanks to national transfers alleviating child poverty, EU cohesion funds increasing access to education and jobs and civil organizations supporting vulnerable households. The most critical first step that is needed in the fight against inequality is the recognition that an issue as widespread as poverty affects millions of lives that have untold potential.

– Clara Garza

Clara is based in Los Angeles, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Elderly Poverty in Togo: The Fight for Dignity and Support

Elderly Poverty in TogoElderly poverty in Togo is a serious and often overlooked issue. Public discussions usually center on youth employment or general health, leaving out many older citizens, especially those who worked in informal jobs without retirement benefits. This article looks at the institutional and social factors behind elderly poverty in Togo and shows how reforms and local efforts can help restore dignity and support for this vulnerable group.

The Structural Drivers of Exclusion

The main reason many older people are poor is that the formal social security system leaves them out. More than 86% of Togolese workers are in the informal sector, and they do not have access to the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) retirement system. As a result, only about 20% of elderly people get a formal pension. This means that almost four out of five older citizens do not have a secure income in retirement. The problem is even worse in rural areas, where nearly 59% of people live in poverty.

Health Care Crisis: A Universal Gap

The income crisis is made worse by major problems in health care. More than 91% of elderly people do not have reliable health insurance. This lack of insurance significantly affects their overall well-being, contributing to multidimensional poverty. Health insecurities intersect with income disparities to limit their access to essential services and weaken their social voice and agency. When medical emergencies happen, families often have to spend their limited savings on care, which keeps the cycle of poverty going from one generation to the next. Without addressing these interconnected issues, focusing solely on income support will leave human development efforts incomplete.

Research in Lomé shows that more than half of older adults living in the community report poor health, and many have chronic illnesses. Because so few have insurance, there is an urgent need for policy changes to reduce suffering and financial hardship.

Government Action and Policy Impasse

The Togolese government recognizes the importance of universal coverage and has begun expanding social safety nets. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Novissi program used mobile money to send targeted cash transfers to people in need. This showed that the country can deliver broad and efficient support, setting an example for future programs.

Local activists are lobbying the government to transition this successful model into a permanent, unconditional cash transfer program targeting the extremely poor and vulnerable. The government is also working to compile a Unified Social Registry and provide biometric identification to all citizens, which are indispensable steps for an accurate, scaled-up cash transfer policy.

However, progress toward universal coverage is stalled because there is no decision yet on how to fund the Assurance Maladie Universelle (AMU) for the most vulnerable people. Policymakers need to choose whether to fund this insurance through taxes, worker contributions or both. This choice will decide if the poorest people remain excluded.

Community Resilience: Local Safety Nets

Since there is no comprehensive safety net, community-led groups play a key role in providing financial and social support. Traditional savings and loan cooperatives, called tontines or Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), are an important local safety net. In Togo, these cooperatives make up most of the microfinance sector, serving 80% of clients — about 212,000 people — and providing access to credit and savings without requiring collateral. For example, in the village of Tomé, VSLAs with about 25 members help people save money together and take out loans. This allows them to invest in their farms or pay for urgent needs, such as emergencies.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are also helping vulnerable people improve their farming. One project supported people with disabilities and small farmers by drilling additional wells for water and starting new activities, such as beekeeping. This helped about 22,000 people in Togo build a better future.

Looking Ahead

Ultimately, solving elderly poverty in Togo demands a dual strategy: institutionalizing successful digital cash transfers and securing dedicated funding for social benefits to protect the 80% of the elderly population excluded, while continuing to amplify community-led resilience efforts. Securing dignity and support for older citizens is not just a moral duty; it is a critical investment in the nation’s future stability.

– David Kohen

David is based in British Columbia, Canada and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash