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How big is the hole? Suspension of USAID in Ethiopia

ethiopia usaidEthiopia is the largest recipient of USAID in sub-Saharan Africa. After receiving the money for 2023, Ethiopia has seen a suspension in the $1 billion in aid it receives. The funding cut has left the country in a vulnerable position, disrupting critical aspects of its healthcare system, including data management, medicine procurement, delivery, and workforce training and retention

Where the Suspension Has Hit Hardest?

The suspension of USAID funding has severely disrupted Ethiopia’s fight against diseases like malaria, HIV and tuberculosis. Around 5,000 health care workers lost their jobs, affecting vital services such as vaccinations, patient care and disease surveillance. The funding cut also threatens Ethiopia’s global “95-95-95” HIV treatment goals, with 503,000 people receiving care across 1,400 health facilities. Additionally, 10,000 data clerks responsible for managing HIV treatment have lost their jobs, further hindering the delivery and monitoring of care.

This could cripple efforts to combat HIV in the short to medium term, leaving many patients vulnerable. This has worsened the strain on the health care system, leaving it unable to provide basic services and hindering disease eradication efforts, deepening health poverty. 

With USAID support, Ethiopia launched a five-year health sector plan (HSTP-II) from 2020-2025 to improve health care. The plan aims to ensure quality, accessible health care, strengthen governance and leverage technology for reliable health data. A key challenge is the severe shortage of health care workers, with less than 100,000 staff members, far below the 445,000 necessary for universal health coverage. The plan’s success is crucial to expanding services and addressing this workforce gap.

The suspension of USAID funding has severely impacted Ethiopia’s HSTP-II, halting training programs and delaying the expansion of the health care workforce. Many NGOs have been hit hard by the suspension, including the Tesfa Social and Development Association (TSDA), which aids HIV patients with food, clothing and school supplies, according to The Guardian. The funding cut has crippled the organization, leaving those who depend on TSDA in even worse health and poverty. Staff layoffs and operational challenges have worsened the already dire situation for those relying on the organization’s support.

Solutions

The government has tried to enhance its support for local NGOs by trying to empower them by simplifying regulatory frameworks, in the hope this will enhance the operational efficiency and sustainability of NGO’s despite the budget constraints they are now facing. Following the advice of the Ethiopian Civil Society Organisation Authority, NGOs that did not rely on USAID funding are forming alliances with other local NGOs, enabling them to share resources, have joint fundraising efforts, and increase advocacy for policy changes to support the nonprofit sector during this challenging period.

NGOs such as the Mekedonia Humanitarian Association focus on supporting the critically disabled, elderly and mentally ill by providing housing, clothes and other vital amenities. Another organization is the Ethiopian Human Rights Council, which focuses on providing legal aid and investigating human rights abuses. These have turned out to be important practices for non-USAID-funded NGOs as it has provided support for these NGOs to allow them to continue their work during the period of the suspension.

Conclusion

The suspension of USAID has left Ethiopia’s health care system in an unprecedented crisis, affecting disease eradication efforts, health care workforce expansion and the operations of vital NGOs. The abrupt withdrawal of $1 billion in aid has crippled essential programs, forced widespread layoffs and disrupted Ethiopia’s ability to meet global health commitments. The impact on HSTP-II and organizations like the Tesfa Social and Development Association underscores how deeply intertwined USAID funding was with Ethiopia’s healthcare infrastructure.

Efforts to diversify funding streams, improve private sector involvement and empower local NGOs mark a shift towards long-term self-sufficiency, though the short-term outlook remains dire. Ultimately, while Ethiopia is making strides to mitigate the crisis, the loss of USAID has left an undeniable mark on its healthcare system. Whether the government’s measures will be enough to compensate for the loss of funding remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: The suspension has deepened Ethiopia’s health crisis, and the road to recovery will be long and arduous.

– Oliver Hedges

Oliver is based in Lancaster, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fighting Type 2 Diabetes in India

India’s Fight Against Type 2 Diabetes CrisisAccording to the Lancet, global diabetes rates among adults have doubled since 1990, rising from 7% to 14% in 2022. The most significant increase occurred in middle- and low-income countries. Notably, the study found that 60% of people with Type 2 diabetes lived in just six countries, with India accounting for the largest share at 212 million adults. As India’s economy and population have expanded rapidly over the past 35 years, so has the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes, particularly among the nation’s poorest communities.

Demographic Changes

Since 1990, India’s economy and population have surged, making it one of the world’s fastest-growing nations. The country’s economy has grown tenfold, increasing from $320 billion to $3.57 trillion. Meanwhile, its population has nearly doubled, rising from approximately 870 million to 1.42 billion.

The country has also experienced a significant rise in urbanization since 1990, with 519 million urban residents. While these demographic changes suggest economic progress, rapid population growth and urbanization have placed a strain on infrastructure and public services. Without sufficient investments in health care and education, these shifts can potentially widen inequalities, including access to health care. The increasing rates of Type 2 diabetes in India illustrate this challenge.

Since 1990, the number of people in India living with diabetes or classified as pre-diabetic has risen to 237 million as of 2023. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body fails to use insulin effectively to regulate blood sugar levels. If not diagnosed early or treated properly, complications can include heart and kidney disease, as well as foot and leg amputations.

Challenges in Diabetes Care Across India

Studies reveal that urbanization in India leads to higher consumption of energy-dense foods and reduced physical activity, increasing obesity rates and the risk of Type 2 diabetes and other cardiometabolic conditions. Low awareness of diabetes among India’s adult population underscores the need for better health monitoring and education. Treatment and control rates remain low, particularly in rural areas and among low-income populations, due to barriers to health care access and high treatment costs. Although low-cost glycemic medications are available, many individuals cannot afford them.

With too few trained diabetes educators in India, physicians bear the burden of patient education. Variations in diabetes education standards among universities lead to inconsistent patient education. The absence of national certification requirements and low-quality diabetes training at some universities hinder efforts to regulate diabetes care and education programs.

Disparities in diabetes funding across Indian state governments likely stem from varying awareness levels and the economic burden of diabetes care. Some states allocate significantly more resources to diabetes management than others, highlighting the need for a more standardized national approach. Without sufficient investment in awareness campaigns, medical training and affordable treatment options, diabetes will continue to pose a growing public health challenge in India.

A Hybrid Approach

Since 2010, the Indian government has introduced several measures aimed at increasing diabetes awareness through both physical and technological initiatives. These programs seek to reach as many people as possible, especially in underserved areas.

  • National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke (NPCDCS) – 2010. Launched in 2010, NPCDCS was designed to curb the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases, which had become more prevalent than communicable diseases. The program focuses on prevention, early screening and disease management while improving access to treatment—particularly for low-income populations.
  • mDiabetes Initiative – 2011. Developed by Arogya World in collaboration with Nokia, this mobile health initiative delivers text messages on diabetes management in 12 languages. It has reached 130 million people. A follow-up study found that 51.9% of participants underwent diabetes screening and 67.3% monitored their glucose levels. The Indian Ministry of Health later adopted the program, recognizing its success in raising awareness.
  • Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centers – 2018. These centers provide comprehensive health care services, including screenings for Type 2 diabetes. The initiative has significantly improved health care infrastructure, with 150,000 wellness centers now operational.
  • E-Sanjeevani Telemedicine Service – 2020. Launched by India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, E-Sanjeevani is a telemedicine platform that has facilitated more than 100 million virtual consultations since 2023. The service has played a vital role in bridging the gap between health care providers and patients, particularly for those in poverty who may struggle to access in-person consultations.

Looking Ahead

India’s rapid economic growth has coincided with a surge in Type 2 diabetes, particularly among low-income communities facing limited health care access and education. While urbanization and dietary shifts have contributed to rising cases, the government has implemented multiple initiatives to address the crisis. Programs such as the NPCDCS, mDiabetes, E-Sanjeevani and Ayushman Bharat have improved awareness, screening and access to treatment, especially in rural and underserved areas. However, continued investment in public health care, education and preventive measures could be essential to curb the growing burden of diabetes and ensure equitable health outcomes across all socioeconomic groups.

– Oliver Hedges

Oliver is based in Lancaster, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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High-Risk Diseases in Botswana and Their Impact

High-Risk Diseases in Botswana and Their ImpactBotswana, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, is known for its economic stability and reliance on diamond exports. The government maintains strong trade partnerships with nations such as the United States (U.S.) and the United Kingdom (U.K.), but economic disparities persist. Unemployment remains high at 27.6% and Botswana’s Gini index—a measure of income inequality—stands at 53.3, indicating significant economic inequality. Public health challenges further compound economic hardships. Diseases in Botswana are a challenge. The country faces a high disease burden, particularly from HIV, tuberculosis (TB) and Kaposi sarcoma. While the government has made strides in addressing these conditions, limited resources, health care infrastructure challenges and economic instability continue to hinder progress.

HIV in Botswana: Progress and Challenges

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a critical public health issue in Botswana. HIV attacks the immune system by targeting CD4 cells (T cells), weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases. If untreated, it progresses to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), increasing vulnerability to opportunistic infections.

To combat HIV, Botswana’s Ministry of Health (MOH) partnered with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to expand testing, prevention and treatment services. This collaboration has resulted in an extensive network of more than 200 HIV prevention sites nationwide. The Botswana AIDS Impact Survey collects critical data on sexual behaviors and risk factors, allowing policymakers to tailor interventions effectively. Additionally, the country has invested in widespread antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs to ensure HIV-positive individuals receive life-saving treatment.

Efforts have yielded significant progress. By 2021, Botswana achieved a 97% viral suppression rate among HIV patients on ART. Additionally, more than 334,000 people received antiretroviral treatment, contributing to a 9% decrease in HIV transmission over the past decade. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, including stigma, treatment adherence and reaching remote populations.

Tuberculosis: A Persistent Public Health Threat

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs but can also spread to other organs. TB is airborne and spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing bacteria into the air. Symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, fever, fatigue and weight loss.

Botswana has seen a rise in HIV-related TB cases, as individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to the disease. The government has taken several measures to address TB, including expanding screening programs at hospitals and clinics, increasing access to diagnostic tools for early detection and ensuring the availability of effective TB medications, including aminoglycoside antibiotics.

Despite these interventions, co-infection rates of HIV and TB remain high, making TB prevention and treatment more complex. Ensuring consistent medication access, early detection and public awareness campaigns are essential to further reducing TB cases in Botswana.

Kaposi Sarcoma: Botswana’s Leading Cancer

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is the most prevalent malignancy in Botswana. It affects the lining of blood and lymphatic vessels and is strongly associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). KS is especially common among individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV.

Kaposi sarcoma presents significant health risks, causing purple or dark-colored skin lesions, swelling, enlarged lymph nodes and respiratory complications if the disease spreads to the lungs. To address KS, Botswana’s government has established four public oncology centers that provide cancer treatment services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, the country continues to face significant challenges, such as limited access to advanced diagnostic tools, shortages of experienced oncologists and delays in treatment due to resource constraints.

Increasing investments in cancer research, early detection programs and expanded health care infrastructure is crucial for improving Botswana’s ability to manage and treat Kaposi sarcoma effectively.

Strengthening Health Care Response in Botswana

While Botswana has made notable progress in combating HIV, tuberculosis and Kaposi sarcoma, challenges remain. Limited health care resources, economic instability and high co-infection rates continue to strain the public health system. Ongoing government initiatives and international partnerships—such as those with the CDC—are vital in ensuring continued progress in fighting diseases in Botswana. Expanding health care infrastructure, medical training programs and public awareness campaigns could be key to improving disease prevention and treatment outcomes. By addressing these high-risk diseases, Botswana can potentially enhance public health, reduce economic strain and improve the quality of life for its citizens.

– Hayden Reyes

Hayden is based in Iowa, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The State of Lebanon’s Medical System

The State of Lebanon’s Medical System Lebanon’s medical system faces immense strain as ongoing conflict with Israel has led to widespread damage to health care facilities and personnel. Israeli airstrikes across the country—particularly in southern Lebanon and Beirut—have severely impacted the health care sector, which continues to struggle to rebuild. Reports indicate that 63% of health transports and 26% of medical facilities have been affected. Previously regarded as one of the strongest health care systems in the Arab world, Lebanon’s medical infrastructure now faces severe limitations in providing adequate care.

Impact on Medical Infrastructure and Personnel

The conflict has resulted in repeated strikes on hospitals and medical centers across Lebanon. Between October 2023 and November 2024, 226 health workers and patients lost their lives, while another 199 suffered injuries. Although international humanitarian law protects medical facilities during armed conflicts, Lebanon’s health care workers have endured significant casualties and disruptions. The Rafik Hariri University Hospital in Beirut, the city’s largest medical facility, sustained heavy damage from an airstrike. Reports indicate that 13 people were killed and more than 60 others injured, further diminishing Lebanon’s ability to provide critical medical care.

Health Care System Under Economic Strain

A weakened economy had already placed Lebanon’s health care system under significant pressure before the war escalated. As of May 2024, 44% of the population lived in poverty, with rates reaching 70% in Akkar, one of the country’s poorest regions. A prolonged liquidity crisis devalued the Lebanese pound, making it increasingly difficult for hospitals to purchase essential medicines, retain medical staff or maintain equipment. Many public hospitals struggle to function due to a lack of financial resources.

International Aid Organizations

Several international organizations continue to provide medical aid, transport and disease prevention programs, working to preserve access to health care across the country.

  • International Organization for Migration (IOM). Since 2006, the IOM has focused on medical and psychological support for Palestinian and Iraqi refugee communities in Lebanon. During the conflict, IOM facilitated medical transport for more than 4,000 people, assisted in rebuilding health facilities and launched telehealth programs to ensure continued patient access to care. A cholera prevention campaign was implemented in response to concerns about potential outbreaks due to deteriorating sanitation infrastructure.
  • International Medical Corps. Operating in Lebanon since 2006, the International Medical Corps supports a network of 50 health care clinics and dispensaries. The organization provides disease prevention programs, patient consultations and medical treatment for displaced and vulnerable populations. Health awareness initiatives have also been implemented to educate residents on preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
  • Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières – MSF). The psychological toll of war remains a growing concern in Lebanon. Doctors Without Borders currently operates two mental health helplines, providing psychological support to those affected by the ongoing conflict. Reports suggest that two-thirds of Lebanese citizens are experiencing mental health disorders due to war-related trauma. The demand for psychiatric care and counseling services continues to rise, placing additional strain on an already fragile health care system.
  • KSrelief. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has played a crucial role in providing health care services to Syrian refugees in Lebanon. At the Akkar-Bebnine Health Care Center, 2,689 patients received medical treatment in December 2024 alone. KSrelief’s contributions have been essential in addressing the medical needs of displaced communities who otherwise have limited access to health care services.

Future Prospects

At the beginning of 2023, Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health introduced Vision 2030, a long-term strategy aimed at revitalizing Lebanon’s medical system. However, the ongoing conflict has severely hindered its implementation, making immediate health care recovery efforts more urgent. International organizations and humanitarian groups continue to provide critical support, but Lebanon’s health care sector remains under immense strain. Rebuilding medical infrastructure, securing funding and addressing the long-term psychological and physical health consequences of the war remain significant challenges. Continued international aid, government intervention and economic recovery efforts could play a crucial role in determining the future of Lebanon’s medical system.

– Charley Dennis

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

Photo: Flickr

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Disability and Poverty: Barriers to Education and Health Care

Disability and Poverty: Barriers to Education and Health CareChildren with disabilities face significant barriers to education, health care and economic opportunities, particularly in developing countries. Studies indicate that children with disabilities experience poverty at nearly three times the rate of their peers without disabilities. They are also 50% less likely to attend school and 25% less likely to receive medical care, making disability both a cause and consequence of poverty. These disparities highlight the urgent need for systemic solutions to ensure children with disabilities receive equal access to essential services.

How Disability and Poverty Intersect

Families caring for children with disabilities often face higher costs for medical treatment, assistive devices and specialized education. In low-income countries, where disability resources are limited, these families struggle to meet their children’s basic needs. The lack of accessible schools forces many disabled children into isolation, depriving them of an education and future employment opportunities. Estimates suggest that 10% of children with disabilities do not receive basic rights such as education, health care or legal protection. In many cases, government policies fail to address these needs, leaving families without adequate support. Without systemic intervention, these children remain trapped in cycles of poverty, unable to access opportunities that could improve their quality of life.

Global Efforts to Address Disability and Poverty

International organizations play a crucial role in advocating for children with disabilities. The World Health Organization (WHO) leads initiatives to educate the public on disability rights and push for policy changes that promote inclusion. WHO also supports the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS), implemented in 2019, which provides a global framework for integrating disability rights into development efforts. In addition to global advocacy, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) address disability and poverty at a local level.

Accomplish Children’s Trust, a United Kingdom (U.K.)-based nonprofit, focuses on medical intervention, education access and income generation for children with disabilities in Uganda and Malawi. Many of these children previously lacked access to health care and schooling, but the organization works to integrate them into support systems that improve their long-term well-being.

The Role of NGOs in Reducing Disability Inequality

  • Community-based Approaches. Unlike large global institutions, NGOs often focus on local solutions tailored to community needs. By involving local leaders and residents, they create sustainable programs that continue without relying on long-term external aid. This grassroots approach helps address immediate challenges while fostering long-term systemic change.
  • Small-Scale, High-Impact Interventions. Smaller organizations, such as Accomplish Children’s Trust, have made measurable differences despite limited resources. The trust has facilitated physiotherapy and occupational therapy for 3,500 disabled children at Kyaninga Child Development Centre, provided epilepsy medication to 700 children and helped 356 children enroll in school—90% of whom had never attended school before. Additionally, 200 families receive financial support to care for their disabled children.
  • Targeting Key Risk Factors. Children with disabilities are at higher risk of malnutrition, disease and unemployment. Many NGOs address these risks by providing health care services, advocating for inclusive education policies and supporting vocational training programs. These efforts not only improve the quality of life for disabled children but also increase their future economic independence.

The Importance of Awareness and Policy Change

Governments and international organizations have begun increasing efforts to address the challenges faced by children with disabilities. While progress has been made, raising awareness remains critical to ensuring disability rights receive sustained attention. Increased public engagement could drive policy changes, secure funding and expand successful programs to reach more children in need. Addressing disability-related poverty requires coordinated efforts from governments, NGOs and the global community. Investments in accessible education, health care and employment programs could not only improve the lives of children with disabilities but also contribute to broader economic and social development.

– Kaleb Monteith

Kaleb is based in Greeley, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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HIV/AIDS In Panama: Political Actions and Awareness

HIV/AIDS In Panama: Political Actions and AwarenessIn Panama, approximately 30,000 people are living with HIV/AIDS, with numbers increasing each year. The rise reflects improved testing and awareness, allowing more people to seek and receive the care they had long been without. However, poverty remains a major barrier, particularly among Indigenous communities, where extreme living conditions increase vulnerability to the disease.

Poverty in Panama

Poverty significantly influences both the spread of HIV and access to treatment. While Panama’s overall poverty rate stands at 22%, the impact is disproportionately severe in nonurban areas, where 76% of Indigenous people live in poverty. This stark contrast highlights the need for targeted support, as many Panamanians, particularly in remote regions, still lack essential resources.

The Intersection of Poverty and HIV/AIDS

Economic hardship often results in limited access to hygiene products, including affordable condoms, increasing the risk of HIV transmission. Those infected face further challenges in accessing life-saving medical treatment.  The adult HIV prevalence rate in Panama stands at 1.0% and the country reports nearly 1,000 AIDS-related deaths annually. In the Ngäbe-Buglé territory, AIDS is the leading cause of death, accounting for more than 7% of fatalities, according to Panama’s National Statistics Institute. This intersection of poverty and health disparities highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies, including targeted education, expanded health care access and culturally sensitive prevention efforts to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS in Panama.

Political Action Driving Change

Panama began addressing the HIV epidemic in 1985 by offering testing and treatment services. In the early 2000s, the government passed legislation requiring agencies to provide both material and financial support to combat HIV/AIDS. Initially, the national budget focused solely on treatment medication. However, in response to the evolving epidemic, Panama expanded its funding to include public education initiatives. The passing of General Law 3 on STIs in 2000 marked a significant step forward, aiming to prevent discrimination and ensure equitable access to HIV-related services. By 2005, Panama had allocated approximately $10 million from the federal budget toward HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and awareness campaigns.

Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma

While increased funding has improved access to treatment, stigma remains a significant obstacle, particularly within Indigenous communities. Misconceptions about HIV/AIDS continue to fuel discrimination, preventing many from seeking testing and care. Public education campaigns have played a crucial role in dispelling myths and fostering a more informed society. These initiatives not only teach people how HIV spreads but also promote understanding and compassion for those affected by the virus. Expanding educational resources to Indigenous regions remains a priority, as these communities face the highest rates of both poverty and HIV/AIDS.

Looking Ahead

The combination of political action, increased awareness and targeted support has allowed Panama to make meaningful progress in addressing HIV/AIDS. However, continued efforts are needed to ensure that vulnerable populations—particularly Indigenous communities—have equitable access to education, prevention tools and medical care. By prioritizing both policy-driven solutions and grassroots awareness initiatives, Panama can continue to bridge the gap between poverty and health, creating a safer, healthier future for all its citizens.

– Kaleb Monteith

Kaleb s based in Greeley, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Eco-Friendly Search Engines Fight Poverty and Pollution

Eco-Friendly Search Engines Fight Poverty and PollutionThe internet has revolutionized communication and access to information, but its environmental impact is often overlooked. According to the International Energy Agency, global data centers consumed around 200 terawatt-hours of electricity in 2022—equivalent to the energy use of some mid-sized countries. Search engines contribute to this consumption, with each Google search generating an estimated 0.2 to 7 grams of CO₂, depending on the device used. This environmental strain disproportionately affects low-income communities, where pollution, waste and water scarcity worsen poverty. To address these challenges, eco-friendly search engines like Ecosia, Ekoru and GiveWater have emerged, transforming everyday internet use into a force for environmental restoration and community support.

Ecosia

Ecosia, an eco-friendly search engine with the same functionality as Google, offers users a greener alternative. Its tagline, “familiar search, greener impact,” reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability. Ecosia has planted more than 225 million trees and dedicated approximately €92 million to climate action.

The Ecosia team channels 100% of its profits into climate initiatives, with a significant portion supporting its global tree-planting program. Working with local organizations in more than 35 countries, Ecosia’s efforts yield widespread benefits. In Brazil, reforestation protects endangered species, while in Senegal, it restores land fertility.

In Senegal, Ecosia collaborates with Trees for the Future to establish forest gardens, where trees and shrubs grow alongside fruits and vegetables. These gardens improve soil water retention, increase crop diversity and create new income opportunities for small farmers. As a result, farmers can cultivate produce previously unsuited to dry soil while expanding their agricultural capacity. This initiative generates sustainable income for low-income rural communities. Since 2018, Ecosia has planted more than 17 million trees and restored 5,909 hectares of land across Senegal.

Ekoru

Ekoru operates as an eco-friendly search engine that generates revenue through clicks. Unlike traditional platforms, each click on a sponsored link supports ocean restoration efforts. Founders Ati Bakush and Alison Lee allocate 60% of Ekoru’s profits to initiatives like Big Blue Ocean Cleanup and Operation Posidonia. These organizations possess the labor and resources needed to advance Ekoru’s mission of restoring ocean health.

Ekoru’s impact extends across its partnerships, facilitating beach cleanups and microplastic research. Plastic waste and nonrecyclable materials pose significant threats to low-income countries, where limited infrastructure prevents proper disposal. When plastic washes ashore, it disrupts local ecosystems and undermines fishing enterprises.

Recognizing the potential for change, Ekoru aims to counteract ocean pollution and broader environmental harm. The platform operates on hydroelectric power, while its data centers rely on convection cooling instead of traditional air conditioning. This approach ensures that every Ekoru search promotes sustainability from the outset.

Give Water

GiveWater offers a search engine alternative designed to improve global health by expanding access to clean water. The platform tackles the impact of drought and environmental challenges that limit water availability. Safe, clean water not only provides hydration but also supports sanitation and hygiene. According to GiveWater, 844 million people lack access to clean water, exposing communities to illness and even death. In many remote villages, families must travel long distances to fetch water, wasting time and facing health risks that deepen poverty in low-income areas.

GiveWater channels a portion of its profits from sponsored clicks to partners like Water.org and Living Water International. Water.org bridges the financial gap for impoverished families lacking access to safe drinking water. Living Water International installs water systems tailored to community needs, guided by regional experts who understand local cultures and landscapes.

Janaki, a South Asian resident, highlighted the impact of these ongoing efforts, explaining how a nearby water source has transformed her community’s outlook. The convenience allows more time for school and work, eliminating the need for long journeys to secure basic needs. This increased access to water fosters educational and professional advancement, reducing poverty in vulnerable communities.

Small Changes Make a Big Difference

By choosing eco-friendly search engines, internet users could transform routine web browsing into meaningful action. These platforms fund tree planting, ocean cleanup and clean water initiatives, tackling both environmental degradation and poverty. As digital consumption continues to rise, such innovations reveal that small changes in technology use can potentially drive sustainable development and improve lives worldwide.

– Sarah Lang

Sarah is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Ebola in Uganda: Strengthening Response and Prevention

Ebola in Uganda: Strengthening Response and Prevention
Since the initial discovery of orthoebolavirus during the 1976 disease outbreaks in Zaire and Sudan, nearly 40 additional incidences have occurred. While these Ebola disease (EBOD) episodes have been reported globally, Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for most of them. Countries such as Sierra Leone, Guinea and Uganda have all experienced EBOD outbreaks. In fact, Uganda itself has had several different episodes over the last 20 years. While these disease outbreaks cause harm and disruptiveness to many communities, they also provide valuable learning opportunities. Additionally, information that medical professionals glean from previous events can be useful for addressing future epidemics. To successfully control emerging outbreaks of Ebola disease in Uganda, medical professionals should heed lessons they learned from past orthoebolavirus outbreaks.

Knowledge Gains

Lessons learned from past orthoebolavirus outbreaks are plentiful and many partnerships between the country’s Ministry of Health (MOH) and global agencies have led to positive improvements for addressing Ebola disease in Uganda. These include:

Additionally, lessons learned from past orthoebolavirus outbreaks in Uganda involves supporting culturally appropriate burial processes. For this, the MOH is working closely with Uganda’s Red Cross teams. These teams include individuals from the community who understand the culture and who can work directly with those who have lost loved ones due to EBOD. Team members receive training in using personal protective equipment (PPE) and following rigid universal precaution requirements. This is especially important when addressing orthoebolavirus outbreaks.

Ongoing Challenges

While progress has occurred in addressing Ebola disease in Uganda, communication remains a challenge. Even though the government shares disease information about orthoebolavirus outbreaks, people do not always trust it and are hesitant about vaccines.

Because of the current Ebola disease in Uganda, many countries have implemented travel bans and advisories. Those in the tourist industry believe that the lack of clear communication from the government is causing a decrease in their revenue. This is significant for an industry that gained more than $1 billion in revenue during 2023. This is of great concern for the more than 42% of the people living in poverty.

Lessons learned from past othoebolavirus outbreaks also revealed the depth of distrust and culturally embedded conspiracy theories developed from previous Ebola disease in Uganda events. Some believe the outbreaks are a way for the government to remove certain populations or cover up the selling of people. They also believe that those infected with EBOD have had a hex cast upon them.

To remove communication barriers, more engagement with local communities needs to occur. Besides clear information, people also need increased education regarding Ebola disease in Uganda, especially as the country tries to initiate a new vaccine trial to fight the EBOD outbreak of 2025.

Summary

Uganda is located in East-Central Africa. It is home to six major lakes including Lake Victoria, which is the second-largest inland freshwater lake in the world. The country has a population of more than 48 million people of which almost 75% live in rural communities along Lake Victoria, roughly 72% of the rural population does not have access to improved sanitation facilities and nearly 20% of the rural population does not have access to clean drinking water.

These are significant aspects to consider when managing any orthoebolavirus outbreak. As Peter Piot, (the Belgium-British microbiologist involved with identifying Ebola) states, “We shouldn’t forget that this is a disease of poverty, of health systems and of distrust.” But with the lessons learned from past orthoebolavirus outbreaks and ongoing global support, efforts to contain future outbreaks of Ebola disease in Uganda will prevail.

– Kelly Chalupnik

Kelly is based in Kirkland, WA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Jordan Becomes the First Leprosy-Free Country

jordan leprosy-freeJordan, officially named the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, hosts the fifth largest number of refugees per capita. Jordan regularly welcomes refugees from its neighboring countries and has taken in more than 640,000 Syrian refugees since the start of the Syrian Civil War in 2011. Despite Jordan’s cultural significance and international recognition, 24.1% of its population lives below the poverty line. Jordan continues to face challenges such as water scarcity and lack of arable land, while also hosting a large number of refugees, which are an economic challenge for the country. Despite these challenges, Jordan has just celebrated a major success by becoming the first leprosy-free country in the world.

Jordan: First Leprosy-Free Country

In September 2024, the World Health Organisation (WHO) awarded Jordan with a verification of becoming Leprosy-free. Jordan has not reported any Leprosy infections from within its borders in more than two decades and became the first country in the world to receive this verification by the WHO.

This success is in line with the WHO’s mission to eradicate leprosy. The WHO has launched the Towards zero leprosy Strategy 2021–2030, which works together with countries to achieve zero leprosy in the World. The WHO is working towards “zero infection and disease, zero disability, zero stigma and discrimination and the elimination of leprosy,”

There are still more than 200,000 new infections recorded worldwide, with more than half recorded in India. Leprosy is an infectious chronic disease caused by the Mycobacterium leprae. It is spread through droplets in the mouth and nose. Leprosy is transmitted by prolonged close contact with the infected. Once treatment is started people living with leprosy are no longer infectious. Left untreated, leprosy affects the skin, upper respiratory tract, and eyes and can lead to physical deformity. Leprosy is curable and treatable, and if treated early physical deformities can be avoided entirely. The treatment is a combination of three different antibiotics, namely dapsone, rifampicin and clofazimine.

Stigma

Unfortunately, those affected by the disease not only suffer from the physical effects of leprosy but regularly suffer from stigmatization. These range from social isolation to financial hardship, as people who have visible deformations are often rejected by the job market. In some parts of the world, leprosy is regarded as divine punishment. It can also be used as grounds for a divorce.

WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia Saima Wazed congratulated Jordan for this major public health achievement: “Jordan’s elimination of this age-old disease is a historic milestone in public health and a huge success for efforts to eliminate leprosy globally. The fight against leprosy around the world is more than a fight against a disease. It is also a fight against stigma and a fight against psychological and socio-economic harm. I congratulate Jordan on its achievement.”

Jordan’s historic achievement highlights how closely collaborating with the WHO and following the guidelines as outlined by the WHO’s Towards Zero Leprosy strategy is the key to success in the fight against Leprosy. Such news inspires hope that other countries still affected by leprosy can have similar success.

– Salome von Stolzmann

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

Photo: Flickr

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Sierra Leone Launches Successful Ebola Vaccination Campaign

Ebola Vaccination CampaignSierra Leone’s Ministry of Health launched a nationwide preventive Ebola vaccination campaign. Starting on Dec. 5, 2024, the three-week effort aimed at protecting 20,000 frontline workers against the Ebola virus. While similar higher-coverage campaigns were conducted in Guinea-Bissau (2021), Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (2022), this initiative is the first of its kind in West Africa. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, provided a single dose of the Ervebo vaccine to frontline workers, with training, technical assistance and logistical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

In an interview with The Borgen Project, Francisco Luquero, Gavi’s Head of High-Impact Outbreaks, highlighted the importance of the initiative. “The campaign’s impact will be significant to strengthen the country’s preparedness for future outbreaks by protecting frontline workers.”

Campaign Successes

The nationwide campaign targeted various at-risk communities, including health care professionals and first responders such as ambulance and motorcycle drivers. Village hunters were also vaccinated to prevent the spread of the Ebola virus from animals to humans. Luquero told The Borgen Project that Gavi achieved 94% coverage among the target group of 20,000 frontline workers. 

“Health care workers expressed satisfaction with the campaign, recognizing its importance in protecting themselves and their communities from future outbreaks,” says Luquero. He also stated that vaccine confidence and awareness also improved due to information provided about the vaccine’s benefits and side effects, as well as guidance on what to do in case of Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI). Gavi noted that these information dissemination efforts, along with “robust logistical support” from WHO and UNICEF, were crucial to the campaign’s successful rollout.

Ebola 2014 – 2016 Outbreak

The 2014 Ebola virus epidemic began in Guinea. It spread to at least 10 other countries, firstly through neighboring Liberia and Sierra Leone. With no vaccine available at the time of the outbreak, health care workers were limited in their response capacities. The epidemic resulted in 28,000 confirmed infections and approximately 11,000 deaths, making the outbreak “the deadliest in history.” Sierra Leone was the hardest-hit country, accounting for an estimated 36% of recorded deaths and losing 7% of its medical personnel.

Ebola Vaccinations

Gavi funded a stockpile of half a million doses of Ervebo in 2021, just three years after WHO and the European Medicines Agency approved the vaccine. The majority of the vaccines are allocated for preventive Ebola vaccination campaigns similar to the one in Sierra Leone, targeting at-risk communities. About 5% of the remaining stockpile is reserved for emergency outbreaks. This distribution is due to Ebola outbreaks being relatively uncommon and not having a large enough stockpile to cover entire populations.

WHO defines at-risk persons through a ring vaccination strategy, which “captures a social network of individuals and locations” comprising around 150 people per vaccination ring. To be included in a preventive Ebola vaccination campaign, one must either be a frontline worker or have in the last 21 days:

  • Lived in the same household or been in close contact with an infected person displaying symptoms of the virus,
  • Had physical contact with an infected person’s “body, body fluids, linen or clothes.”
  • Being a neighbor or family member (including extended family) “at the closest geographic boundary of all contacts.”
  • Or lived in the same residence as anyone else included within the vaccination circle.

For the Future

Following the campaign in Sierra Leone, Luquero shared that Gavi plans to improve several aspects of its vaccination efforts. “Key lessons include enhancing vaccine confidence, strengthening case management protocols for adverse events, and improving supply chain and data management.” Indeed, a total of 18 countries are eligible for a preventive Ebola vaccination campaign, with the Central African Republic expected to be the next to participate.

Although the likelihood of Ebola epidemics is low, vaccinated persons must continue to take precautions to protect themselves from infection. This includes avoiding direct contact with the bodies, bodily fluids and clothing of infected individuals. Additionally, Sierra Leone would also need to improve its population’s access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) to help mitigate the risk of the virus spreading.

While the vaccine does not eliminate the threat of an Ebola virus outbreak, these preventive vaccination campaigns can fortify health care systems and enhance community preparedness in case the virus spreads in endemic regions.

– Nesreen Yousfi

Nesreen is based in Watford, Hertfordshire, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr