Information and news on advocacy.

Midwife Programs in Underserved CommunitiesMidwives play an essential role in providing health care to women. Their work is critical in areas without access to traditional hospitals and for women who need alternative expertise. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends training an additional 1.3 million midwives by 2030 to address the shortage of health care professionals. The following documentaries feature midwife programs in underserved communities.

Navigating Birth and Conflict in the West Bank

This documentary, filmed in Feb. 2024, tracks experienced midwives as they navigate the challenges of providing care in the war-torn West Bank. Across four hospitals, these professionals manage their personal anxieties and professional duties. Indeed, they ensure pregnant women receive necessary health care despite the conflict. Each midwife program reveals how these women adeptly adapt to severe conditions. Despite the lack of private hospitals and ongoing war, they serve approximately 8,000 women per month, overcoming significant institutional challenges.

The midwife programs tackle hurdles such as unpredictable birth events, an unorganized health care system and a dampening of morale among expectant mothers. Additionally, personal hurdles include military checkpoints during commutes and delays in payment from employers. A primary concern is the mental and emotional well-being of mothers and midwives as they navigate the uncertainties of childbirth, poor health care access and the dangers of a sustained war effort around their homes and hospitals. Midwife programs such as Midwives for Peace actively work to make up for the lack of resources and to support new mothers. 

Making a Midwife

This documentary follows student midwives as they train and work to receive certification to practice in Haiti. Women like Jusléne prepare to work independently in their communities. According to the documentary, one in 83 women die during childbirth in Haiti. Half of these deaths can be attributed to health complications, such as Eclampsia. Though many women experience complications with known treatments, many of these procedures are not offered to the poor and low-income families within Haiti.

The Midwives for Haiti is a program dedicated to combating high child mortality rates in Haiti. These future midwives, both women and men, are eager to apply their new skills in communities desperate for quality care. They learn from seasoned instructors experienced in field deliveries. By partnering with traditional matrons, Midwives for Haiti ensures a robust training of attendants. The program melds formal midwifery education with an understanding of local cultural traditions. Additionally, the training equips new matrons to engage effectively with pregnant women and their families. As locals themselves, these midwives handle cultural beliefs sensitively, providing accurate diagnoses and care. In the long term, this process aims to strengthen a struggling health care system and alleviate pressures on local actors and voodoo doctors who may lack medical knowledge. 

The community-centered approach to education and training creates an atmosphere of uplift and persistence for each trainee. Michael, a featured trainee, wishes to go out and find people who need medical care but who may not have the resources to maintain steady access. Like many of the featured midwives, his goal is to educate local women on the best practices for a healthy pregnancy. The hope is that they can learn how they can position themselves and their children to live a life of health and nutrition. 

Nadene, the founder of Midwives for Haiti, established the program with two primary goals. The first is to address the critical shortage of health care providers. The second goal is to foster self-agency among midwives. As students graduate and begin their practices, they gain the tools needed to achieve financial independence. This empowerment is particularly transformative for women, who often experience financial independence for the first time as they serve their communities.

Con Madre

Con Madre documents the experiences of a group of women who live and train at a Guatemalan school for midwives. The documentary depicts a strong bond between the women as they live together and progress through its program. 

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, more than 50% of births in Guatemala are home births. Women unable to attend a formal hospital rely on midwives to guide them through pregnancy. Furthermore, they offer care in the weeks following birth. Despite the necessity of their work, midwives in the area resist perceptions by medical professionals who do not understand or accept their expertise. 

The three-year midwife program equips students to lead with a vision of empowerment and possibility, emphasizing women’s health rights and future work. Beyond their formal training, each midwife-in-training shadows a “traditional” midwife to absorb ancestral knowledge from local villages and communities. This ancestral training fosters respectful, trusting relationships between new midwives and their local patients.

Looking Ahead

Through the dedication and specialized midwife programs highlighted in these documentaries, midwives provide critical health care to underserved communities globally. These ongoing programs empower local midwives, enabling them to navigate complex community challenges while preserving cultural practices. As they address gaps in maternal and newborn health, midwife programs enhance care and promote long-term, community-centered health care solutions that bring safety and support to mothers and infants in underserved communities.

– Karina Dunn

Karina is based in Mesquite, TX, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

3 Poverty Reduction Innovations in KosovoThe Republic of Kosovo lies in Southeast Europe, bordering Albania to the southwest and Serbia to the North. The nation has struggled with poverty over the years. According to the BTI project, Kosovo is one of the poorest countries in Europe, with more than 40% of Kosovo’s population of 1.67 million living below the poverty line. The nation faces high unemployment rates in an economy heavily dependent on remittances from its diaspora, leaving it vulnerable to economic shifts abroad and rising corruption levels. However, recent initiatives by the government and various organizations have successfully reduced poverty rates in Kosovo.

Economic Growth

According to the World Bank, since declaring independence in 2008, Kosovo has experienced a 50% increase in per capita income and a 35% decrease in poverty. Instead of relying on foreign aid for economic growth, the government has increased investments, with help from projects and a stronger financial system. Kosovo has also faced challenges like inefficient economic management and a weak government, which have impacted the economy’s growth.

As a result, the Kosovo Economic Governance Activity (KEGA) was implemented, which is a five-year initiative funded by USAID to help the Kosovo government make reforms in policies to promote growth in the private sector and strengthen public financial management. This initiative resulted in €1.2 billion in formalized buildings that secured citizens’ property rights and an 86% increase in tax revenues, rising from €457 million in 2018 to €852 million in 2023. 

Decrease in Unemployment

Focus Economics reported the rate of unemployment in 2019 at 26.7%, and in 2023, it decreased to 10.9%. This rapid decrease resulted from initiatives such as the electronic platform K-GenU, which UNICEF launched to provide opportunities for Kosovo youths to access paid internships and to establish connections with employers. The platform helps young people with skills in job searching. Another initiative by UNICEF, Generation Unlimited, prepares young people for the labor market and has provided internships for around 500 young people in 57 businesses.

Social Protection Initiatives

Many people in Kosovo do not have access to health care, education and protective services. This is due to the ineffective programs to help reduce this shortcoming. To combat this, UNICEF increased support for the Law on Social and Family Services, which aims to broaden services and ensure that everyone in need has the right to access these services. UNICEF in Kosovo also focuses on ensuring that policies that are aimed at aiding children lead to real change in their lives. This involved planning and managing the money for certain programs and directly helping municipalities to ensure that children most in need are receiving the help. 

Moving Forward

While Kosovo faces challenges ranging from high rates of unemployment and ineffective social programs, the Kosovo government and international organizations have taken successful steps to tackle this problem. The World Bank reports on a new strategy called the Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for Kosovo for the years 2023 to 2027. This aims to help the country improve its economy over the next five years to create more jobs and improve living standards. 

– Nouf Hunaiti

Nouf is based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

HIV Prevention Drug to Reach 120 CountriesAt the end of 2023, approximately 39.9 million people worldwide were living with HIV. An estimated 0.6% of adults aged 15 to 49 years globally are living with the virus. However, the impact of the epidemic varies significantly among countries and regions. Gilead’s new, affordable, twice-yearly lenacapavir (LEN) injection effectively prevents HIV, especially in women. On Oct. 2, 2024, the company announced licensing agreements to offer the drug at lower costs in 120 “high-incidence, low-income” countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) described this development as a significant advancement in combating the life-threatening disease, which affects roughly half its victims as women, predominantly in sub-Saharan Africa.

HIV Prevention Drug Lenacapavir

Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable that provides pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of contracting HIV. Earlier this year, a study in South Africa and Uganda revealed the drug’s high efficacy in preventing HIV among HIV-negative girls and women. Furthermore, another trial involving men in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Peru, South Africa, Thailand and the United States (U.S.) demonstrated nearly complete protection. Indeed, in the lenacapavir group tested, among women, there were no new cases of HIV infection and the trials revealed no significant safety concerns.

Pressure on Gilead from World Leaders

Following the publication of these findings, Gilead faced pressure from the People’s Medicines Alliance along with a group of 300 world leaders, celebrities, scientists and activists to make the drug available in middle- and low-income countries simultaneously as people in wealthier nations. Among the signatories were actors Gillian Anderson, Stephen Fry, Sharon Stone and Alan Cumming; former heads of state; and Francoise Barré-Sinoussi, a Nobel-winning scientist. In a letter addressed to the Gilead CEO Daniel O’Day, they pushed the company to open the license up to poorer nations immediately. Furthermore, they expressed their hope that the “groundbreaking” development could make “radically positive change for people facing stigma.”

HIV in Low-Income Countries

Gilead is prioritizing the registration of LEN in the 18 countries with the highest HIV incidence rates, in Sub-Saharan Africa and South-East Asia. These high rates stem from inadequate domestic and international funding, with natural disasters and regional conflicts complicating governments’ HIV response efforts. HIV prevalence is higher in specific population groups, including men who have sex with men, which fuels stigma around the disease. However, global efforts to increase treatment accessibility have yielded substantial progress over the past two decades. Currently, 29.8 million of the 39 million people living with HIV are receiving treatment. Indeed, this is a significant increase from 7.7 million in 2010.

Looking Ahead

In response to these promising findings, the WHO has announced it is actively developing guidelines in collaboration with experts and global partners to ensure an affordable supply and equal access to the drug. New pharmaceutical developments are emerging rapidly. HIV prevention drug lenacapavir presents a hopeful method of combating the disease in high-risk countries.

– Hannah Dunford

Hannah is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

IPTp Treatment: Reducing Malaria in Pregnant Women in MaliMalaria is an infamous disease resulting in around 249 million malaria cases worldwide, 94% of those being from Africa as a whole. The symptoms range from fatigue to yellowing skin to abnormal bleeding and can prove fatal if untreated. In Mali, where the population totals 22.6 million, malaria presents a significant health risk, spread primarily by mosquitoes. In 2022 alone, 7.9 million cases were reported, a record high for Mali. Pregnant women in Mali, specifically, have an increased risk of long-term effects if they get Malaria. The National Library of Medicine reported that catching this disease when pregnant can lead to “outcomes including stillbirth, early neonatal death, preterm delivery and low birth weight,” being the leading cause of death among mothers and their babies – both in utero and after birth.

The IPTp Pill

After observing the adverse effects of malaria on pregnant women, health professionals developed a specific treatment for this group, hoping to reduce malaria rates in Mali. Known as Intermittent Preventive Treatment of Malaria in Pregnant Women (IPTp), this treatment involves taking three pills during each trimester of pregnancy. IPTp has gained popularity for its convenience and affordability compared to other malaria prevention measures. A notable advantage is its minimal side effects, with most only occurring after the first dose.

IPTp Distribution

Once manufactured, various organizations distribute the IPTp treatment directly to Malians, focusing on pregnant women, young mothers and children aged 1-5. The United States (U.S.) President’s Malaria Initiative for Mali (PMI), dedicated solely to combating malaria in this demographic, was established in 2005. Its goal is to reduce malaria incidence by providing health care measures, including IPTp. Mali has stood out among Sub-Saharan African countries due to its high malaria mortality rates. Although PMI has increased the distribution of IPTp, Mali remains a priority because of political instability and insecurity, which hinder health service provision. To address this, PMI ensures a steady supply of IPTp pills to the 13 Malian towns most affected by malaria.

IPTp Awareness

A crucial role in implementing IPTp treatment for malaria in Mali is raising awareness about the pill’s effectiveness. The BMC Malaria Journal recently published a study suggesting that more pregnant women would choose IPTp if provided with a brief factsheet outlining malaria’s potential impacts on their health and that of their child, along with protection strategies. This finding highlights a lack of malaria knowledge among the Malian population, which negatively affects IPTp usage. Consequently, many organizations focused on eradicating malaria in Mali include educational components in their efforts. Groups like Save the Children and CNRS have conducted sessions for Malian teachers on malaria prevention and treatment, including IPTp. While not all classes exclusively comprise pregnant women, the dissemination of this information across various age groups in Mali supports advocacy efforts for IPTp pills.

Looking Ahead

Malaria remains a significant threat in Mali, particularly for pregnant women, with millions of cases reported in recent years. The IPTp has proven effective in reducing malaria-related health risks for both mothers and their children. Organizations such as the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative have prioritized distributing IPTp and raising awareness about its benefits. Efforts by groups like Save the Children and CNRS have also expanded education on malaria prevention, helping more women access life-saving treatments. Although challenges persist, continued focus on awareness and treatment distribution offers hope for reducing the impact of malaria on vulnerable populations.

– Nadia Haeryfar

Nadia is based in Ashford, CT, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

Smartphone-Powered Diagnostics: Transforming Health Care in NepalIn the remote regions of Nepal, where geographical and infrastructural challenges often restrict health care access, an innovative wave of smartphone-powered diagnostics is revolutionizing the delivery of medical care. Cutting-edge mobile technology from the United States  (U.S.) is driving these innovations, empowering health care workers with diagnostic tools that transform disease detection, monitoring and management in rural areas. Consequently, these advances are significantly improving efficiency, early disease detection and the overall quality of medical services in Nepal’s health care system.

The Health Care Landscape in Nepal

The health care landscape in Nepal, despite incorporating both public and private sector services, often fails to meet international standards. As of 2019, health-related expenditures constituted 4% of the country’s GDP, with infectious diseases accounting for roughly two-thirds of all health issues. Although Nepal has made considerable progress in enhancing its health care system, significant challenges persist in access and quality of care. Smartphone-powered diagnostics have emerged as a pivotal solution, bridging the gap between patients and health care providers. This mobile health technology enables health care workers to perform medical tests, diagnose diseases and provide care in previously inaccessible areas.

US Innovations Leading the Charge

Researchers at the University of Washington developed a smartphone attachment that enables remote eye exams using optical microangiography, allowing health care providers to conduct vision assessments in underserved areas. Another breakthrough involves using smartphone apps to analyze facial blood flow, aiding in the early detection of stroke risks. These innovations illustrate how medical care in low-resource regions can be transformational. With these tools, health care has become more accessible, portable and affordable, significantly improving health care access.

In Nepal, for instance, a feasibility study reveals how smartphone-powered diagnostics can make a major impact through the use of the General Movement Assessment (GMA) to screen infants for high-risk cerebral palsy. This technology empowers parents with smartphone-based apps, allowing diagnostics once confined to clinical settings to be available in remote regions. The integration of smartphone-powered diagnostics in Nepal marks a major milestone that overcomes resource barriers and extends quality care to all as a result of global technological advancements.

Empowering Rural Health Workers

Smartphone-powered diagnostics are revolutionizing health care by empowering rural health workers, especially in regions of Nepal where medical professionals are scarce. In remote areas, health workers are often the first line of care but have traditionally lacked access to advanced diagnostic tools. With smartphone-based technologies, these workers can perform critical tests without requiring patients to travel to hospitals. For example, a health worker in a remote village can use a smartphone-connected lab-on-a-chip device to conduct blood tests for diseases like malaria or dengue fever. Health workers transmit results electronically to doctors in urban areas who confirm them, enabling swift treatment decisions. This not only enhances patient care but also eases the pressure on overwhelmed health care facilities.

Overcoming Barriers to Health Care Access

Smartphone-powered diagnostics profoundly impact health care access by overcoming geographical barriers that traditionally isolated rural populations. The country’s mountainous terrain and inadequate infrastructure often hinder patients from traveling to hospitals or clinics for routine medical care. Mobile health technology addresses this challenge by delivering diagnostic tools directly to communities, eliminating the need for long journeys to receive medical attention. Furthermore, these innovations not only enhance accessibility but also reduce health care delivery costs. Unlike traditional diagnostic equipment, which is typically expensive, bulky and requires specialized training, smartphone-based tools are affordable, portable and user-friendly, making them ideal for low-resource settings.

The Future of Smartphone Diagnostics in Nepal

Smartphone-powered diagnostics are set to revolutionize developing countries’s health care by empowering local health workers and enhancing diagnostic capabilities. Innovations, such as apps that measure blood oxygen levels using smartphone cameras and deep-learning algorithms, enable patients to monitor their health at home, particularly benefiting those with respiratory conditions. Collaboration between Nepali providers and international tech innovators could be crucial to scaling these technologies, improving health care access and promoting self-reliance in local communities.

– Alaya Laila

Alaya is based in Nigeria and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

5 Effects of Water Pollution in PakistanCurrently, more than 21 million Pakistanis face a water sanitation crisis affecting the entire country. Major cities like Karachi and Lahore struggle to provide access to clean and safe drinking water. The situation is even more dire in rural villages that lack modern systems and adequate health care. The Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources predicts that by 2025, the country will face extreme water shortages. Large-scale industrialization has contaminated many essential water sources, benefiting the economy but causing unchecked environmental damage. The pollution introduces high levels of chemical and biological toxins into the water. Understanding the top five effects of water pollution in Pakistan could help quantify the challenges faced by the population.

5 Effects of Water Pollution in Pakistan

  1. Waterborne Diseases. The outdated water distribution network in Pakistan, located near many industrial plants and sewage systems, introduces numerous toxins into the drinking water. Bacteria such as E-coli and Salmonella, when ingested, can be detrimental to health, leading to diseases such as typhoid, intestinal worms and cryptosporidium infections, which account for more than 40% of communicable diseases in Pakistan. Widespread poverty exacerbates the effects of these diseases, as many Pakistanis cannot afford the necessary medications.
  2. Infant Mortality.  The infant mortality rate in Pakistan is among the highest in developing nations, with water pollution playing a significant role due to the vulnerability of infants to harmful bacteria and fecal matter. According to UNICEF, only 35.8% of the Pakistani population has access to clean drinking water. Exposure to toxic bacteria during pregnancy and early childhood can lead to birth defects and early onset of severe diseases, both of which significantly increase the risk of infant mortality, especially given the limited access to medical care for many families.
  3. Agricultural Damage. Man-made agricultural fertilizers are a significant source of water pollution, which poses severe challenges to Pakistan’s agricultural sector. Given the country’s predominantly dry and hot climate, manufactured water sources are crucial for the survival of many farms. Additionally, small family-owned farms in numerous villages depend entirely on agricultural profits for their livelihood. The broader population also relies heavily on this produce for sustenance. Contaminated water, which harms more than it helps the plants, forces farmers to use scarce freshwater supplies. This situation creates substantial economic and social impacts due to the limited availability of clean water.
  4. Contaminated Food Products. Contaminated food products often result from crops irrigated with impure water. Livestock exposure to polluted water, contamination in marine waters and the use of pesticides and fertilizers further toxify essential resources. Without access to healthy, clean food for consumption and sale, many populations face starvation and life-threatening diseases.
  5. Decreased Biodiversity. Water pollution destroys numerous habitats, including lakes, rivers and ponds. Pollution renders them unable to support aquatic life due to chemical contamination and nutrient depletion. This disrupts food chains as smaller, less chemically resistant organisms die off, impacting species that rely on them for sustenance. Additionally, eutrophication, spurred by excessive nitrogen and phosphorus, triggers algae blooms that further degrade marine ecosystems by limiting sunlight and reducing energy available to aquatic species.

The Paani Project

The Paani Project, headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is actively enhancing water quality in Pakistan. Founded by four Pakistani Americans seeking to address the water crisis, the nonprofit has developed more than 20,000 water systems since its inception. Additional projects include deepwater wells, solar wells and reverse osmosis plants. As of June 2024, Paani collaborates closely with local partners to identify the most suitable water solutions for each rural community, maximizing the impact of donations. The organization emphasizes transparency, providing donors with approximately 30 photos of the construction process, a video of the completed water system and a comprehensive water quality report.

Looking Ahead

Pakistan’s water crisis poses significant challenges, from waterborne diseases to agricultural damage, impacting millions of lives. Efforts by organizations like the Paani Project offer hope. Their tailored water solutions work to improve access and quality across the country. With a focus on addressing the immediate needs of affected communities, these ongoing initiatives contribute to mitigating the long-term effects of water pollution and ensuring a more sustainable future for Pakistan.

– Sophia Kharal

Sophia is based in San Jose, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

Mpox in India: Understanding the Outbreak and Response India has confirmed its first case of a deadlier mpox strain, the clade Ib variant, in Kerala. Previously contained in the Democratic Republic of Congo, this strain is now spreading globally, leading the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a global health emergency. Authorities detected the case in a 38-year-old man who had recently traveled from Dubai and have identified 29 contacts for self-quarantine.

The Spread of Mpox in India

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), a double-stranded DNA virus from the Orthopoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family. A global outbreak of the clade IIb strain occurred between 2022 and 2023. As of now, the mpox outbreak in India has primarily affected urban areas, especially New Delhi. Although the number of cases has not reached critical levels, there is concern about potential widespread transmission in densely populated regions. Public health officials are closely monitoring the situation, tracking cases and ensuring containment measures are in place.

India’s Public Health Response

India’s public health response to the mpox outbreak has been swift and coordinated. The central government has urged all states and Union territories to identify facilities and train personnel to manage both suspected and confirmed mpox cases. Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra has emphasized the importance of timely sample testing, isolating cases and conducting genome sequencing through the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to determine the virus clade.

States have received instructions to boost public health preparedness at state and district levels, establish isolation facilities and enforce strict infection control measures. Public awareness campaigns are underway to educate communities about the disease, its transmission and the importance of early reporting. Additionally, diagnostic capabilities are robust, with 36 labs supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and three commercial PCR kits approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to facilitate testing. These ongoing efforts aim to control the spread of mpox and protect public health.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has intensified India’s response and preparedness for the mpox outbreak following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of the disease as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Guidance from WHO has significantly shaped India’s response to mpox, providing best practices from other countries and offering frameworks to manage the disease within a broader public health context.

Looking Ahead

India has responded swiftly and proactively to the mpox outbreak, demonstrating a strong commitment to controlling the virus’s spread. Coordinated efforts at both national and state levels have enhanced diagnostic capabilities, established isolation facilities and promoted public awareness.

– Aneela Agha

Aneela is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

Portable Labs for Diagnosing DiseasesAccess to health care poses a significant challenge in many African regions. Remote villages often lie hours or days from the nearest clinic and under-resourced hospitals struggle to provide timely diagnoses for diseases like malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. As a result, patients experience significant delays in receiving care, leading to high mortality rates for otherwise treatable diseases. However, the deployment of portable labs across Africa transforms health care by delivering essential testing and treatment services directly to these underprivileged communities.

The Need for Portable Labs

A disproportionate 25% share of the global disease burden falls on Africa. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HIV/AIDS, malaria and TB remain the leading causes of death in sub-Saharan Africa. Quick and accurate diagnosis is key to combatting these diseases. However, with more than half of its population deprived of health care access and Africa’s global health expenditure below 1%, lab infrastructure is often outdated. Sending samples to distant laboratories for analysis can take days or weeks, delaying life-saving treatments. Portable labs address this issue by equipping health care workers with the tools to conduct on-site tests. These compact, mobile units, designed for low-resource settings, can perform diagnostic tests within minutes, allowing for immediate disease diagnosis and treatment initiation.

How Portable Labs Work

Portable labs generally consist of compact machines capable of performing various diagnostic tests, revolutionizing health care in remote areas. A well-known portable lab is the GeneXpert System by Cepheid, which provides rapid molecular testing for different diseases, like TB and HIV. This system, requiring minimal training, delivers results in under three hours—a critical feature for timely patient treatment.

Another significant innovation is the SAMBA II machine from Diagnostics for the Real World, designed to diagnose HIV within two hours. It has seen wide deployment across sub-Saharan African clinics, including in Kenya, Uganda and Malawi. The SAMBA II operates without specialized lab infrastructure, making it an ideal solution for resource-limited regions. These devices, powered by battery packs or solar energy, make them highly adaptable to regions with unreliable electricity. They are also compact enough to be transported to remote villages, enabling health care teams to deliver diagnostic services where they are most needed.

Impact of Portable Labs

The use of portable labs for diagnosing diseases in Africa has shown promising results in the fight against diseases like TB and HIV. The introduction of Cepheid’s GeneXpert system in sub-Saharan Africa has led to a marked improvement in early TB detection and treatment, limiting community transmission. Similarly, the SAMBA II enables faster diagnosis and better monitoring of patients, which is essential in regions where health care workers need to track the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapies of HIV-positive patients. Thus, rapid on-site testing provided by portable labs ensures patients remain on the best possible treatment plans, improving health outcomes and reducing transmission rates. 

Looking Forward

As the use of portable labs for diagnosing diseases in Africa expands, the impact on public health is expected to grow. Indeed, governments, NGOs and international health organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of investing in these technologies to combat the continent’s most pressing diseases. These portable labs could become a cornerstone of Africa’s health care system. By making health care more accessible and effective, portable labs are not only saving lives – they are playing a vital role in the broader fight against poverty. Furthermore, by improving health care delivery, portable labs contribute to more resilient, healthier communities, laying the groundwork for long-term poverty alleviation and enabling individuals to break the cycle of poverty by improving health outcomes in some of Africa’s most vulnerable communities.

– Viola Cuthbertson

Viola is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

5 Charities Operating in Saudi ArabiaLocated in southwest Asia, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia shares borders with Jordan to the west and Yemen to the north. As the largest Arab country in the Middle East, it is home to Mecca and Medina, the two holiest Islamic cities. Millions of Muslims worldwide travel there annually for the six-day pilgrimage to the Kaaba. Over the years, Saudi Arabia has established numerous charities to aid the less fortunate and is the largest donor in the Gulf region to the Global Fund. It ranks as the 19th largest donor globally, contributing $142.5 million and recently pledged $39 million to the Global Fund, marking a 30% increase from its previous funding. Here are 5 charities operating in Saudi Arabia.

EKHAA Charitable Foundation for Orphan Care

Founded in March 2003, EKHAA provides services to more than 2,055 orphans, including those with special needs, across branches in the country. These services include employment, housing assistance, along with social and cultural program activities. EKHAA’s mission focuses on building independence for orphans through programs, partnerships and a supportive environment that helps them achieve self-sufficiency. Its objectives include ensuring social and financial stability while improving psychological and social well-being.

Saudi Food Bank Association (ETAAM)

Founded in 2011, the Saudi Food Bank Association collaborates with various organizations and businesses to collect surplus food from grocery stores and restaurants, distributing it to those in need. This charity also delivers meals to individuals with special social conditions and low-income households. To ensure effective food distribution, the organization employs modern technology, strategic marketing and skilled staff. With a vision to become a leader in the Kingdom and the Arab world in food provision, the Saudi Food Bank Association aims to promote social solidarity by providing food, preventing waste and supporting food-related research initiatives.

Mawaddah Women’s Charity Association

This charity association was founded to help stabilize and secure families through divorce legislation in Saudi Arabia. The organizations take steps to find long-term solutions to reduce divorce rates and face its negative impacts on families. Founded in 2008, Mawaddah is committed to supporting Saudi families, with a special focus on women and children. It strives to strengthen family relationships and lower divorce rates. Mawaddah also offers courses to assist women who seek to join the workforce. This charity has milestones to work toward, including managing the impact of divorce. According to its website, ‘For women faced with divorce or its aftermath, the assistance on offer from Mawaddah can range from simple financial help to job-qualification programs.’

Alnahda Society

Alnahda Society is a nonprofit women’s organization that focuses on empowering Saudi women socially and economically through a range of programs, like providing educational services and employment opportunities for women. The society began with volunteering efforts, quickly evolving into a cultural institution that is committed to enhancing women’s role in community services. Since 2008, this nonprofit has provided 97,500 services and has operated 37 centers in the capital city of Riyadh.

EHSAN National Platform for Charitable Work

Launched in 2021, the EHSAN digital platform serves as a national donation hub, encouraging charitable activities and community involvement. It uses advanced technology to make these donations reach those in need. The donations have benefitted more than 48 million people. The platform has set a Genius World record for the highest daily donations in 24 hours globally. In March of 2023, more than 558,000 donors contributed to provide support for more than 476,000 people.

Looking Ahead

Saudi Arabia’s diverse charitable efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and enhancing social welfare. Through the various charities operating in Saudi Arabia address issues such as food insecurity, women’s empowerment, family stability and digital philanthropy. The focus on community development and effective aid distribution reveals a growing drive to uplift and empower different segments of society. These programs underline Saudi Arabia’s dedication to advancing social progress and addressing the needs of its people.

– Nouf Hunaiti

Nouf is based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

UK Aid in Kenya: Reducing Malaria and Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Kenya, a country on the rise in East Africa, has seen significant economic growth over the past decade, driven by political and economic reforms. Yet, despite these advances, two-thirds of its population still lives in poverty. This staggering level of poverty continues to hold back many communities, limiting access to basic services like health care, education and housing. The battle against malaria remains one of the greatest health challenges these communities face. This disease not only claims lives but also keeps many families trapped in the poverty cycle. United Kingdom (U.K.) Aid in Kenya, through the Global Fund, is helping to address this challenge, reducing the burden of malaria and, in turn, alleviating poverty.

Malaria and Poverty

Malaria is a leading cause of illness and death in Kenya, particularly in rural areas, where access to health care services is limited. Beyond the health toll, malaria places a significant economic burden on families. Frequent bouts of illness reduce household income, as adults are unable to work and children miss school. In communities where families live on less than $2.15 a day, these disruptions reinforce the poverty cycle. Health care costs, such as treatments and hospital visits, often result in further financial strain. However, U.K. Aid Kenya and local NGOs supported by the Global Fund are working to bring malaria under control.

With targeted interventions such as distributing insecticide-treated bed nets and providing access to treatment, malaria transmission can be significantly reduced. By lowering malaria prevalence, communities can improve productivity, reduce health care costs and increase educational opportunities—key factors in breaking the cycle of poverty.

UK Aid in Kenya: Supporting the Global Fund

Global Fund to Fight AIDS is one of the key international efforts in the fight against Tuberculosis and Malaria. The U.K. is one of the largest contributors to the Global Fund, having pledged £1 billion for 2024 to 2026, aimed at combating these diseases globally. In Kenya, the U.K.’s contributions play a crucial role in reducing malaria cases and breaking the cycle of poverty that often accompanies this disease. Through the Global Fund, U.K. aid supports local NGOs such as Amref Health Africa and Population Services Kenya (PS Kenya), which are pivotal in implementing malaria prevention programs.

These organizations distribute millions of insecticide-treated bed nets, provide life-saving treatments and lead educational campaigns to prevent the spread of malaria. With U.K. aid, these efforts have been scaled up in malaria-endemic areas of Kenya, improving both health and economic outcomes for affected communities.

Success Stories

  • Amref Health Africa. Amref Health Africa, one of the largest health development organizations in Kenya, has been at the forefront of fighting malaria in rural areas. Supported by U.K. Aid through the Global Fund, Amref has made significant strides in malaria prevention and treatment. Amref has trained more than 1,591 Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) and 8,500 Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) across 10 malaria-endemic counties, enhancing early diagnosis and treatment of malaria at the household level. In Nandi and Kericho counties, an additional 165 CHEWs and 815 CHVs were trained specifically to improve malaria prevention among pregnant women. These interventions have contributed to significant improvements in malaria management and reduced the disease burden in high-risk areas​. 
  • Population Services Kenya (PS Kenya). PS Kenya, supported by U.K. Aid through the Global Fund, has played a critical role in providing life-saving malaria treatments, particularly in Busia County, a malaria-endemic region in western Kenya. Through community case management, PS Kenya has tested more than 401,000 suspected malaria cases and treated more than 319,700 people with effective treatments such as artemether-lumefantrine in the past year. With 51% of cases managed at the community level by trained Community Health Promoters (CHPs), this intervention has significantly improved access to timely treatment. By focusing on vulnerable populations and enhancing community-based health systems, PS Kenya’s efforts are helping to alleviate the financial strain on families and reduce the incidence of malaria, which in turn contributes to breaking the cycle of poverty in affected regions​.

Looking Forward

The U.K.’s aid support through the Global Fund has had a measurable impact on reducing malaria in Kenya. By funding local NGOs like Amref Health Africa and Population Services Kenya, U.K. aid is helping to reduce malaria transmission, lower health care costs and improve productivity in vulnerable communities. From 2010 to 2020, the prevalence of malaria in Kenya decreased by 49% nationwide, demonstrating the effectiveness and utmost importance of these interventions. Crucially, these health programs are addressing one of the root causes of poverty by reducing the economic strain caused by frequent illness and enabling families to invest in education and productivity. As Kenya continues to grow economically, eliminating malaria could be key to ensuring that all its citizens can thrive and share in the country’s prosperity.

– Safa Musa

Safa is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr