Archive for category: Agriculture

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Innovations in Poverty Eradication in Bolivia

Poverty Eradication in BoliviaBolivia faces major economic and rural development challenges. After the pandemic, the country experienced economic recovery and poverty reduction. However, it still faces high public debt, declining natural gas production, lower international reserves and strong exposure to droughts, floods and wildfires.

Innovations in poverty eradication in Bolivia focus on practical solutions that connect rural communities with markets, energy, water, training and more resilient agriculture.

Agricultural Innovation and Market Access

One major initiative is the Innovation for Resilient Food Systems (Rural Alliances – PAR III) project. In 2022, the World Bank approved $300 million in financing to benefit nearly 130,000 rural families in Bolivia. The project aims to increase food security, improve market access and expand the use of climate-smart agricultural practices. 

It also supports at least 1,000 rural community associations and 1,270 rural producer organizations through productive alliances, technology, training and technical assistance. This model matters because it does not treat small producers as passive beneficiaries. It connects farmers with buyers, associations and institutions through business plans designed to improve efficiency, profitability and market access. 

Since 2006, the Rural Alliances Project has helped small producers access financing, technology and training, three key tools for improving productivity and quality of life.

Rural Solutions With Real Impact

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlights Apiguardia, a beekeeping alliance in San Ramón made up of 18 men and 10 women. With technical support, the group improved hive management, adopted migratory beekeeping practices, increased honey quality and entered more formal and stable markets. This example shows that innovation does not always mean complex technology. 

It can also mean specialized training, community organization and better production tools. The results of the Rural Alliances Project highlight the importance of this approach. According to FAO, the first phase benefited more than 28,000 rural households and established 768 alliances. 

The second phase reached more than 23,000 families in 120 municipalities. In addition, the market value of certain products increased by 35%, while moderate poverty fell by 11.7% and extreme poverty fell by 10.1% among lower-income beneficiaries.

Sustainable Energy for Rural Communities

Another key aspect of innovation in poverty eradication in Bolivia is access to sustainable electricity. In 2023, the World Bank approved $125 million to expand and improve electricity service in rural communities. More than 141,000 people will receive new or improved access to electricity through grid extensions, mini-grids and individual solar systems.

These solutions will benefit households, schools, health centers and small agricultural, commercial and industrial production units. Electricity can reduce poverty by improving living conditions and boosting productivity. In rural areas, it can support food preservation, tool use, nighttime study, health center operations and the creation of small businesses. 

The project also includes solar systems, renewable mini-grids and training in efficient energy use, helping support a cleaner transition that depends less on polluting fuels.

Water, Irrigation and Climate Resilience

Access to water is also essential for reducing rural poverty. In 2024, the World Bank approved $150 million to improve water resource management, irrigation and climate resilience in 15 basins and 256 municipalities. The project will benefit about 30,000 rural families, especially subsistence farmers in upper-basin areas affected by drought, deforestation and soil erosion.

The project focuses on three main areas: protecting water sources through reforestation and native grassland recovery, optimizing household and community irrigation systems and building flood- and erosion-resistant infrastructure. It also includes automated irrigation to improve crop productivity, diversify production and improve household income. 

These investments can help rural families adapt to climate instability while strengthening agriculture.

A Practical Strategy Against Poverty

These initiatives demonstrate that Bolivia is combining agricultural innovation, basic infrastructure and climate adaptation to address rural poverty. These are not immediate or perfect poverty eradication solutions, but they target concrete problems in Bolivia: low productivity, limited market access, water insecurity, power shortages and vulnerability to climate change.

The strongest part of these strategies is that they strengthen rural communities as producers, entrepreneurs and participants in value chains. When a rural family gains access to irrigation, electricity, training and stable buyers, it has more opportunities to increase income, diversify production and withstand climate crises. Bolivia still faces major economic and social challenges. 

However, these projects show that innovation can be a real tool against poverty when it responds to concrete needs. The Bolivian experience shows that reducing poverty depends not only on large national plans but also on practical solutions that reach rural communities and improve their ability to produce, sell and live with greater stability.

– Adriana Carolina Herrera

Adriana is based in Painesville, OH, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia

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Women-Led Shea Butter Cooperatives in Northern Ghana

Butter Cooperatives in Northern GhanaWomen-led shea butter cooperatives in northern Ghana are helping rural women increase income while supporting environmental conservation and sustainable development. Shea butter, made from nuts harvested from shea trees, is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cooking products and chocolate production, making it one of Ghana’s leading export commodities. As international demand for shea products continues to rise, women-led shea butter cooperatives are expanding economic opportunities for women across northern Ghana.

Shea Production Supports Rural Livelihoods

In many rural communities across northern Ghana, livelihoods depend heavily on agriculture and natural resources. Shea production has become one of the region’s most important economic activities for women. According to the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) article “The Shea Revolution: Modernizing the Shea Value Chain for Ghana’s Women,” the global shea butter market is valued at approximately $2.75 billion and is projected to grow to $5.58 billion by 2033.

Despite the product’s value, traditional shea processing remains physically demanding and time-consuming for many women. Osman Mariam, a shea producer in northern Ghana, described the importance of shea butter production by stating, “For the women here, shea butter is like our gold,” Mariama said. “It is what we depend on to support our families.”

Women-Led Shea Butter Cooperatives Expand Opportunities

Women-led shea butter cooperatives help women improve production quality, increase output and access international markets. One example is the Sunkpa Shea Women’s Cooperative in Ghana’s Savannah Region. Founded in 2013, the cooperative began with 565 women from eight smaller associations and has since expanded to include more than 800 women across 12 sub-cooperatives. 

The cooperative operates within Community Resource Management Areas (CREMAs), which support sustainable land management and conservation practices. Through these initiatives, women help restore degraded land, protect shea trees and participate in agroforestry projects. According to the Equator initiative report, the cooperative has restored 650 hectares of agroforestry parklands and established a nursery capable of growing 700,000 seedlings. 

The report also states that the cooperative supports several women throughout the shea value chain and employs 200 women at its processing facility. Memuna Braimah, chairperson of the Sunkpa Shea Women’s Cooperative, explained the impact of the organization by saying, “This encourages us to know that our actions are not only making an impact by changing our landscape but also serving as a lesson for others to know that we women, when united, can reach greater heights and achieve much more than we can imagine.” 

Environmental Conservation and Women’s Rights

Environmental protection has become increasingly important for women-led shea butter cooperatives in northern Ghana. According to the Global Shea Alliance article “Protecting Shea Trees: Securing Women’s Livelihoods,” women in many communities depend on nearby shea parklands for income and economic stability. However, deforestation and land-use changes have threatened shea production in recent years. 

The article explains that shea trees are increasingly being cut down for charcoal production and land development, reducing women’s access to shea nuts and forcing them to travel farther to collect them. Latifa Chimsi Abdulai, a member of the Wunda Bangbeebu Women’s Cooperative, emphasized the importance of conservation efforts. “She knows preservation is key,” the article states, as cooperative members work with chiefs and local leaders to restore protections for shea parklands.

The Global Shea Alliance reported that more than 16,000 shea trees across Ghana, Togo and Benin have been digitally mapped. The initiative also linked more than 3,500 women producers through the Enhancing Women’s Land Tenure through Shea Tree Mapping project. The initiative helps strengthen women’s land rights while supporting environmental sustainability.

Modern Technology Improves Working Conditions

Modern shea-processing equipment is also helping improve working conditions for women. According to UNDP Ghana, the organization partnered with Community Development Alliance Ghana and the Government of Japan to establish modern shea butter processing facilities in communities in northern Ghana. The facilities include grinders and roasters that reduce processing time and lessen the physical burden placed on women. 

The initiative is expected to support approximately 150 women involved in the shea value chain. Speaking about the project, UNDP Peace and Governance Analyst Melody Azinim said, “When you reduce the burden on a woman, you multiply her potential.” Improved access to technology allowed women-led shea butter cooperatives to increase production and compete more effectively in international markets.

Looking Ahead

Women-led shea butter cooperatives in northern Ghana continue to create economic opportunities while supporting environmental conservation and sustainable development. Organizations such as the Sunkpa Shea Women’s Cooperative demonstrate how cooperative business models, international partnerships and conservation initiatives can help reduce poverty and strengthen local economies. As global demand for ethically sourced shea products continues to grow, these cooperatives may continue expanding opportunities for women and families across Ghana.

– Grelby Santos

Grelby is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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From Seeds to Market With the DeHaat App

dehaatFounded in 2012 by university graduates Shashank Kumar, Amrendra Singh, Adarsh Srivastav and Shyam Sundar Singh, DeHaat is a digital platform designed to support farmers across India. Today, it serves more than 1.4 million users by offering a range of services including: “frequent crop reminders, voice calls in regional languages, crop advisories, weather reports, and local mandi (market) rates.”

By combining technology with agriculture, DeHaat is helping to modernize the farming sector through modern agrotech solutions for farmers, making information and resources far more accessible. In doing so, the app is simultaneously helping farmers increase crop productivity and secure better prices for their produce.

The following sections outline the key features of the app and how each one of them contributes to reducing poverty and promoting long-term economic stability.

Crop Insurance

One of the most significant advantages of this app is its provision of crop insurance, which plays a critical role in alleviating poverty among farmers. A major challenge in the Indian agricultural sector is the impact of extreme weather events on harvests.  In India, since 2020, floods, storms or hailstorms have damaged“[…] 1.32 million acres – nearly seven times the size of New York City.”

Such losses could be devastating and force farmers to restart from the beginning, wiping out their income and pushing them deeper into financial insecurity. However, through integrated insurance services, DeHaat provides a vital financial safety net. This support ensures that farmers are not left without resources in times of crisis, helping them recover quickly and stabilise their income.

Therefore, by protecting farmers against unpredictable losses, the platform not only strengthens agricultural resistance but also promotes long-term economic security, making it a potent tool in the broader effort to reduce rural poverty.

Weather Alerts

Similar to its insurance feature, the app’s frequent weather alerts also play a key role in alleviating poverty. By providing timely meteorological updates and guidance for different stages of the growing season, farmers are able to plan ahead more effectively. This allows them to choose the right crops for specific conditions, allowing them to plant produce at optimal times.

For instance, if a storm is forecast to reach their farmland, farmers can prepare by fortifying crops or adjusting their harvesting schedule to minimize damage. These proactive decisions could help reduce crop losses, ensuring the farmer retains more of their income and produce.

Consequently, these agritech solutions for farmers could help lower the risks associated with unpredictable weather. DeHaat helps farmers to maintain more consistent earnings, reducing farmers’ vulnerability to condition-induced poverty over time.

Farm Tagging and Connect with Experts

A third significant feature of the app is its ability to directly and swiftly connect rural farmers with expert agriculture advice. Through the Dehaat platform, farmers can access guidance on critical aspects of farming such as pest control, irrigation techniques and the appropriate use of fertilizers. This immediate access to professional knowledge helps address one of the key challenges faced by smallholder farmers: the lack of reliable support.

By creating a more informed and responsive farming environment, the platform enables farmers to make better decisions and manage their land more thoroughly. Rather than relying on trial-and-error procedures, farmers can instead implement reliable and proven science-based solutions.

From a poverty-alleviation perspective, such expertise could be truly transformative because it could reduce the likelihood of crop failures, which would subsequently lead to lower production yields. In the long term, this intellectual exchange between farmers and experts empowers farmers to cultivate a secure and stable farming career, which could increase their ability to make money.

Market Linkage

The final, and most significant, feature of the app is its ability to connect farmers directly to local markets and facilitate the sale of their produce. Historically, the Indian agricultural sector has faced challenges related to corruption and exploitation. For example, findings from the BBC and Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) identified that, “90,000 farmers between April 2011 and March 2012 found serious irregularities,” underscoring the vulnerability of small holders within traditional market systems.

By enabling direct access to institutional buyers, DeHaat could help reduce farmers’ reliance on intermediaries who may exploit information systems, helping ensure fairer pricing and more secure transactions, which helps farmers to avoid falling into debt traps. This greater financial independence contributes to a more equitable farmer experience that plays a role in reducing declines into rural poverty.

Conclusion

Ultimately, this app is an extraordinary example of how technology can provide effective solutions to reduce rural poverty by strengthening every stage of the farming process. From crop insurance to weather alerts to formal market guidelines, DeHaat agritech solutions for farmers help foster a proper, long-term, stable economic future for many individuals.

– Sophia Lupo

Sophia is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Agricultural Innovation Aids Poverty Reduction in Laos

Poverty Reduction in LaosLocated in the heart of Southeast Asia, Laos is home to some of the world’s richest biodiversity and a population known for its resilience, a resiliency that fosters innovation and establishes a foundation for the continuation of growth and development for future generations. This reflects the never-ending need for adaptability both within environmental policies and reducing poverty across the globe. According to the Lao PDR Poverty Profile and Poverty Assessment 2020, Laos has made measurable progress in reducing poverty, bringing its national poverty rate down to approximately 18% since 2020. Poverty reduction in Laos is an achievement which reflects a broader development strategy. Laos’s three main developments are as follows: environmental sustainability, a natural resource due to its biodiversity; agricultural innovation is due to its increasing growth from the rural population; and community development centered on the infrastructure of connecting rural and urban communities.

The most significant driver of Laos’s economic growth remains within the agricultural sector in accordance with the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Laos workforce encompasses roughly 60% of agricultural development. In comparison to its neighbors, Laos has focused on strengthening its agricultural base while integrating environmentally conscious practices. This approach has supported the growth of green jobs, an innovative approach to ending poverty in a developing country. These contribute not only to economic stability but also to environmental preservation. As a pioneer, Laos has established an increasingly critical priority in global agricultural development.

Foreign Aid and Poverty Reduction

The Laotian government has also partnered with international institutions, such as the World Bank, to advance poverty-reduction initiatives. These partnerships have supported national agendas to improve infrastructure and expand access to essential services. In turn, these partnerships will continue to foster long-term economic resilience. Foreign aid continues to play a pivotal role in Laos’s development trajectory. Programs funded through international assistance have provided opportunities to empower local communities, thereby, further promoting economic sustainability and environmental growth.

One notable initiative is the Poverty Reduction Fund, which emphasizes a bottom-up approach by prioritizing community-driven development projects. Established in 2003, the Poverty Reduction Fund (PRF) contributes to growing development in the most disenfranchised and remote communities in Laos. The PRF has accomplished many things, one notable achievement was the training of 68,000 community members for the expansion project. Thus far, the Poverty Reduction Fund has and continues to reduce poverty rates within the country.

Alongside the Poverty Reduction Fund, Laos’s bottom-up model highlights poverty at its source and addresses the root cause of it by increasing the effectiveness and sustainability of poverty alleviation efforts within local communities. Due to its effective efforts to alleviate poverty, poverty reduction in Laos is seen as a compelling case study in the intersection of climate policy and poverty reduction.

Unlike most developed nations, which prioritize large-scale corporate investment, Laos has demonstrated the value of investing in communities and natural resources. The country’s progress suggests that foreign aid, when strategically implemented, can provide meaningful and lasting results. As stated in End Poverty – Build A More Resilient Economy in Lao PDR, poverty is a global problem that affects nations across the globe. However, Laos has established a higher standard to resolve poverty within its borders. These standards utilize foreign aid proactively for local communities and the growth of sustainable agricultural development.

The 3 Pillars Towards Progress

The Poverty Reduction Fund has contributed much to development in Laos, such as the partnership with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. Moreover, Laos has forged new development in establishing innovative programs, such as the Road Maintenance Groups, a program designed to provide support to the impoverished women of Laos. Established in 2017, the Road Maintenance Group holds a dual mission in the reduction of poverty in Laos. The program provides impoverished women with reliable employment within maintenance work that does not require the operation of heavy machinery, while simultaneously improving the conditions of roads in 85 rural villages. Ultimately, the program held many shortcomings in executing its mission to women in extreme poverty. The program within itself was a step towards more innovative development towards establishing aid and reducing poverty, both for women and rural communities.

Despite advancements in poverty reduction in Laos, poverty remains a global challenge affecting nations at all income levels. Laos’s strategy offers a framework for addressing both economic inequality and the importance of environmental growth simultaneously. This approach is built on three core pillars, which consist of strengthening national institutions to improve revenue. Investing in human capital through education and healthcare, and lastly, fostering environmental resilience. As the global community continues to confront interconnected challenges of poverty and changing weather patterns. Laos experience in poverty reduction underscores the potential of sustainable, community-focused development as a pathway toward long-term progress.

 – Rayonna Sanders

Rayonna is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Strengths and Limitations of Coconut Farming in Indonesia

Coconut Farming in IndonesiaWhile Indonesia is the world’s top exporter of coconuts, generating more than $1 billion annually, according to upper-middle-income definitions, roughly 68% of Indonesians live in poverty. Although Indonesia and the Philippines accounted for about 67% of crude coconut oil export, coconut farming in Indonesia highlights both the strengths and limits of agriculture in reducing poverty.

The Strengths of the Indonesian Coconut Industry

Roughly 6.6 million Indonesian farmers rely on the coconut industry as their main source of income. In a country where infrastructure development is severely constrained by its island chain geography, coconut farming in Indonesia is a lifeline for the eastern region in particular. In this region, communities are spread across thousands of scattered islands.

Due to geographic isolation and limited infrastructure, 80% of livelihoods in certain areas of Eastern Indonesia rely on subsistence farming. Coconut farming in Indonesia remains accessible to rural communities, as the country’s climate supports year-round growth. Additionally, coconut crops require less fertilizer than many other crops, allowing lower-income households to cultivate small plots and harvest multiple times throughout the year.

This sector not only supports farming households but also entire rural communities. Beyond smallholder farmers, the industry sustains a wide network of livelihoods, including transport workers, market sellers and processing workers, all of whom rely on coconut production for income. As global demand for healthy alternatives and plant-based options surges, the Indonesian coconut industry is projected to grow at a faster rate in the coming years. 

This growth could create new opportunities for exports, value-added production and increased income potential for smallholder farmers in Indonesia.

The Limits of the Coconut Industry

Despite its scale, coconut farming in Indonesia faces limitations that prevent many farmers from earning higher incomes. One of the most significant issues is low productivity. Coconut yields in Indonesia average around 1.1 tons per hectare, although higher-performing varieties can yield more than 2.8 tons per hectare. This is due to the use of older trees, less efficient farming methods and the continued use of lower-yield crops. 

Additionally, pests, disease and land conversion make it difficult for farmers to maintain strong production, ultimately reducing their potential income. Replanting efforts also remain limited, as new coconut trees can take six to 10 years to reach full productivity. This makes it difficult for smallholder farmers to replace aging crops without facing short-term income losses. 

As a result, many farmers continue relying on older trees with declining yields, reinforcing cycles of low productivity and low income. When coconut farming in Indonesia is stable, farmers often remain at the lowest level of the value chain. Most smallholders sell raw coconuts or copra rather than value-added products such as coconut oil or packaged goods. 

Low Returns

A significant portion of profits is captured later in the supply chain by processors and exporters. This leaves farmers with relatively low returns. In Indonesia’s eastern archipelago, communities are spread across remote, dispersed islands. This geography limits infrastructure development, making it difficult to transport goods. Farmers in these areas often face higher transportation costs and reduced access to larger markets, forcing them to sell locally at lower prices.

Coconut farming in Indonesia is also vulnerable to price fluctuations in global markets. Coconut prices are influenced by broader vegetable oil markets, including competition with palm oil, which is often cheaper and more widely used. As the world’s largest producer of palm oil, Indonesia has historically directed more investment and policy support toward that sector, leaving coconut farming comparatively underdeveloped.

Strengthening Indonesia’s Coconut Sector

While coconut farming continues to support millions of livelihoods, these structural challenges highlight its limits. For many rural communities, the industry provides stability and income, but often at a level that sustains households rather than significantly improving long-term economic mobility. However, efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s coconut sector are already underway.

Government programs and international organizations are focusing on replanting aging trees, improving farming techniques and expanding access to value-added production. These initiatives aim to help farmers move beyond raw coconut sales and capture a larger share of the industry’s profits. At the same time, investments in rural infrastructure and market access could make it easier for farmers in eastern regions to connect with larger supply chains.

While coconut farming in Indonesia alone may not be enough to lift communities out of poverty, targeted support and modernization efforts show that the industry still holds significant potential to improve livelihoods across the country.

– Kale Overton

Kale is based in Ames, Iowa, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How the Agricultural Economy is Reducing Poverty in Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d'IvoireThe 2026 Iran war is creating global economic shocks. However, Côte d’Ivoire is working to drive away poverty and protect its vulnerable communities. As one of the world’s largest cocoa producers, the country depends heavily on agriculture for livelihoods. Yet global disruptions in fuel, fertilizer and food supply chains threaten farmers’ incomes and household stability.

How War is Affecting Côte d’Ivoire

The conflict has already pushed fuel prices higher across Africa. Many countries rely heavily on imported energy, making them vulnerable to global disruptions. Governments across the continent have raised petrol and diesel prices, increasing inflation and putting pressure on low-income households. These increase the risk of deepening poverty as transport and food costs rise. 

The war has also disrupted fertilizer exports. Shipping constraints through the Strait of Hormuz have reduced access to key agricultural inputs. Experts warn this will raise production costs and reduce yields, especially in developing countries. For farmers in West Africa, including those in Côte d’Ivoire, fertilizer shortages could significantly affect cocoa production and household incomes.

These pressures are particularly concerning because agriculture underpins livelihoods in Côte d’Ivoire. The country produces a large share of the world’s cocoa and relies on the crop for export revenue and rural employment. Many households depend on cocoa farming for income, making them vulnerable to price shocks and rising costs. 

The Iran war is also expected to worsen global food insecurity. Disruptions to energy and fertilizer supply chains could push millions more people into hunger, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Rising input costs reduce crop yields, which in turn increases food prices and threatens household purchasing power.

How Ivorians Are Fighting Back Against Economic Pressures

Despite these challenges, Côte d’Ivoire is implementing measures to protect farmers and reduce poverty. The government has intervened to stabilize cocoa markets and ensure farmers continue to receive income. It has pledged to purchase surplus cocoa stocks at guaranteed prices to support producers facing falling demand and volatile global markets. These interventions help prevent economic shocks from pushing farmers into deeper poverty.

Stabilizing cocoa earnings also supports local economies, as agricultural income circulates through rural communities. However, long-term poverty alleviation requires more than emergency support. Rising fertilizer costs highlight the need for improved productivity and resilience. Investments in sustainable farming practices, diversified income sources and infrastructure can help farmers withstand global shocks. 

Increasing yields and improving market access would strengthen household incomes and reduce vulnerability. Côte d’Ivoire also continues broader economic efforts to reduce poverty. Government initiatives and infrastructure investment have supported growth and improved access to services. While poverty remains widespread, targeted policies seek to support vulnerable households and strengthen rural livelihoods.

Final Remarks

The Iran war demonstrates how global conflicts can threaten poverty reduction efforts far beyond the battlefield. For cocoa-dependent economies like Côte d’Ivoire, rising input costs and supply disruptions pose serious risks. Yet proactive government intervention and agricultural investment can help protect livelihoods.

By stabilizing cocoa incomes, supporting farmers and investing in resilience, Côte d’Ivoire is working to limit the impact of global shocks. These efforts show that even amid international crises, targeted policies can help safeguard communities and advance poverty alleviation.

– Demetra Mykoniatis

Demetra is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Disability and Poverty in Gabon

Disability and Poverty in GabonDisability and poverty in Gabon are a little more complicated than in most African countries. Gabon is an oil-rich country, yet the poverty rate is higher, especially in rural areas, where it is 59.5%. The bigger cities, like Libreville and Port Gentil, account for 48% of the national population, but 28% of their residents are poor. In particular, poverty affects people with disabilities. The majority of this population lives in the urban areas where the poverty rate is already quite high, and they are dependent on family support. Poor people are more vulnerable to food stress, and they can experience diseases due to malnutrition.

The Situation

Disability and poverty are almost inseparable. Because one feeds the other; people with disabilities have a lower chance of getting an education and a chance of work, which will lead to poverty in general. Also, people with disabilities often have higher costs due to their health-related needs.

Youth employment is also an issue in Gabon. This country is oil-rich and therefore needs skilled workers in construction, wood processing, renewable energy and communication technologies. However, these educations were limited until quite recently. Since the Gabonese government launched PROCEDE in 2016, their aim is to lower the gap in education in those skill training and job opportunities.

Political Conditions of the Country

The coup leader, Brice Oligui Nguema, won the 2025 election and ended a more than 50-year political dynasty without bloodshed. He secured more than 90% of the vote, an outcome many did not expect. His support stems from promises to advance development and combat corruption.

Poverty grew more quickly in the past years due to countries’ corrupt leaders, where the 2% of these people were the decision makers for the almost 80% people’s wages and rights. They diverted the funds for specific organizations, and the country had to borrow money to pay some of its debt.

Agriculture and Fishing

Basic agriculture and farming contributed only a little to the country’s food production. Still, sugar refining at Franceville and palm-oil processing at Lambarene have a huge impact on the country’s development. Gabon is also one of the world’s leading producers of timber and manganese.

The country recently launched a ranger’s battle for baby sea turtle survival against the odds, aiming to reach as many people and organizations as possible, despite financial cuts. 

A 40-year-old Alain Banguiya continues to complete his duties even though he has not been paid for two months, but still says, “We have a duty to fight to the end, to keep our spirits up.” This shows the determination of the country’s citizens in many areas that need assistance.

Finance and Economics

The United States, Belgium and China are among Gabon’s main trading partners, providing substantial investment. The majority of imports are from South Korea, France and China, while exports are largely directed to China, France and the Netherlands.

Transportation remains a major challenge. The country has long lacked efficient transportation infrastructure and, for a long time, relied on light aircraft for air travel, but those were insufficient for exporting heavier materials like timber, which is a major issue in the country.

Gabon is also a major oil producer. BW Energy Gabon received a 25-year extension for the Dussafu Marin production license, extending it from 2028 to 2053. This long-term provides reserving investments, production and a higher chance of stability in oil production planning.

Gabon also launched the Emergency Community Development Programme (PUDC), and its aim is to reduce social inequalities by creating more economic opportunities, strengthening the governance and improving access to basic services.

The government is also working to expand its Fintech hub, enabling businesses to accept multiple payment methods and expanding broader financial access. This could open new entrepreneurial opportunities and expand services to rural areas, though progress depends on government incentives and digital infrastructure.

Education, Disability and Poverty in Gabon

Disability and poverty in Gabon affect younger people in education, too. In the urban areas, there is a lack of educational infrastructure and educators. Also, due to a lower level of focus on these areas, sexual harassment of children is higher.

The education system is similar to France’s and is officially mandatory for kids ages 6 to 16. Gabon, with the support of its government and UNICEF, collected data on people living with disabilities through the Census Campaign. This data shows that 15,967 people live with disabilities across nine regions, with 27.21% aged 0 to 18.

Disability rates are higher in rural areas, where access to education can be limited. Government efforts focus on improving access, supporting young mothers in education and ensuring that all children receive schooling. 

In particular, the disability rate is higher in women, where in many rural areas, males are prioritized for making a living and their education comes as a priority. However, the help and support of the government and its legislation about making education mandatory are addressing those problems.

Positive Notes

Many know Gabon for its natural beauty, which its agricultural and trade deals complement. The country has significant potential for eco-tourism and several websites help decide which part to visit and provide entry information for the country. Gabon is one of the African countries with steadily growing potential, supported by education for everyone, especially for kids with disabilities.

– Sibel Yasharoglu

Sibel is based in Leicester, UK and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Women Farmers in Guyana and Food Security

Women Farmers in GuyanaWomen farmers in Guyana and food security begin at the market level, where women dominate food distribution in areas such as Anna Regina, Corriverton and Georgetown. Vendors such as Jasmin Ramsammy at Skeldon Market in Berbice adjust supply based on demand during holidays like Diwali, while Nina Sarju at Port Mourant Market manages unsold goods by reselling or sharing them to reduce waste. These daily decisions directly affect food availability. In 2020, fruits and vegetables generated $3.3 million in exports, much of it supported by women’s labor.

Regional Production Shows Women’s Impact

Women farmers in Guyana and food security extend into farming communities such as Pomeroon in Essequibo and Belle West. Women grow crops such as bora, pumpkin, tomatoes and peppers, supplying both households and urban markets. Traders, often women, transport produce weekly from Pomeroon to Georgetown, linking rural farms to cities. Malika Deokarran, who leads a 75-member farming group, plays a key role in organizing pricing and distribution, showing how women sustain the supply chain.

Women farmers in Guyana and food security face the greatest challenges in the hinterland regions of Regions 1, 7, 8, and 9. Poverty in these areas reaches up to 55%, limiting access to infrastructure and markets. Many women rely on small kitchen gardens to support their families rather than operate large-scale farms, which reduces overall productivity and income potential.

Food Loss in Berbice and Coastal Regions

Food loss significantly affects women farmers in Guyana and food security, especially in coastal regions such as Berbice. Nearly 30% of fruits and vegetables are lost annually due to flooding, poor storage and transportation issues. Vendors in Berbice markets often face spoilage if goods are not sold quickly, leading to financial loss and reduced food supply.

Programs Supporting Women Farmers

Current programs are improving conditions for women farmers in Guyana and food security, particularly in rural communities. Government initiatives have provided tools and inputs to farmers in areas such as the Corentyne Coast, helping boost production. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) training programs focus on reducing post-harvest losses and improving climate resilience. Women-led groups are also expanding agro-processing, producing goods such as cassava products and coconut oil to increase income and reduce waste.

Looking Ahead

Women farmers in Guyana are essential to the country’s food system. From Berbice vendors managing daily sales to Pomeroon farmers supplying urban markets, women support every stage of production and distribution. Expanding access to land, credit and training, especially in the most affected regions, could increase productivity and strengthen national food security.

– Kianna Hines

Kianna is based in Brooklyn, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Solar-Powered Irrigation Supports Farmers in Northern Ghana

Solar-Powered IrrigationSolar-powered irrigation is supporting farmers in northern Ghana, highlighting an innovative solution to agricultural challenges in rural areas. In regions where inconsistent rainfall and limited infrastructure restrict farming, solar-powered irrigation systems are helping smallholder farmers improve crop production and increase income.

Challenges Facing Agriculture in Northern Ghana

In northern Ghana, agriculture is a primary source of income for many households. However, farming is often heavily dependent on seasonal rainfall, making it difficult for farmers to maintain consistent crop yields. Periods of drought or irregular rainfall can significantly reduce production, leading to food insecurity and financial instability. 

Without reliable irrigation, many farmers are limited to a single growing season each year, thereby restricting both productivity and income opportunities. For many farmers, the lack of irrigation also creates financial barriers, as fuel-powered pumps are often too expensive to operate. This forces smallholder farmers to rely on rain-fed agriculture, limiting their ability to farm year-round. 

Solar-Powered Irrigation as a Solution

To address these challenges, solar-powered irrigation systems are being introduced as sustainable, cost-effective solutions in Ghana. These systems use solar panels to power water pumps, allowing farmers to access water without relying on expensive fuel. Evidence from Ghana shows that these systems have “led to greater yields, increased income for farmers and a generally improved food security situation.”

By reducing dependence on diesel pumps, these systems also lower operational costs and provide a more sustainable alternative for smallholder farmers. As a result, they provide a reliable and long-term solution to the challenges facing agriculture in northern Ghana. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), “the intervention is not only providing them more income, but it is also helping to improve the nutrition of their households because of the increased yields and the ability to produce food crops throughout the year.” 

It emphasizes the contrast between traditional challenges and the benefits of improved irrigation systems.

Increasing Productivity and Income

Access to reliable irrigation has significantly improved agricultural productivity in northern Ghana. In one example, a farmer supported by a UNDP initiative expanded production from one harvest per year to multiple growing cycles, increasing both yields and income. The impact of solar-powered irrigation on farmers in northern Ghana is also reflected in broader academic findings. 

As stated in the study “Economic and Food Security Effects of Small-Scale Irrigation Technologies in Northern Ghana,” “Small-scale irrigation (SSI) technologies can be useful not only to increase crop productivity and income but also as a viable adaptation practice to climate variability.” The same study further explains that adoption of SSI technologies can lead to substantial economic gains. Results show that “adoption of the SSI technologies could increase the net farm profit by 154%–608% against the baseline depending on the ‘crop type – SSI technology’ combination.”

Building Resilient Communities

Beyond individual farms, solar-powered irrigation contributes to broader social resilience. By stabilizing food production, these systems reduce vulnerability to economic shocks and seasonal shortages. They also create employment opportunities and support local economies.

Programs supporting solar irrigation in Ghana often include training and technical assistance to help farmers effectively use and maintain the systems. As these initiatives expand, they have the potential to reach more communities and further reduce poverty.

Conclusion

Solar-powered irrigation offers a practical and sustainable solution to agricultural challenges in northern Ghana. By increasing crop yields, improving food security and reducing costs, these systems play a key role in supporting farmers and strengthening rural economies. Continued investment in solar irrigation technology could further expand its impact and help reduce poverty across vulnerable communities. 

– Grelby Santos

Grelby is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Food Insecurity in Nigeria and Okra’s Value

Food Insecurity in NigeriaFood insecurity in Nigeria affects an estimated 35 million people, including 17 million children facing malnutrition. This marks one of the most severe hunger crises in Africa and places Nigeria among the countries with the highest global burden of hunger. Political conflict and climate-related shocks, including drought, have only exacerbated the crisis, making it difficult to cultivate certain foods.

Okra

One food that is heavily relied on in Nigeria is okra. Sometimes called “lady’s finger,” it is native to Africa and is used in many Nigerian cultural dishes. “Of what I have seen in West Africa, okra is most commonly found in the home garden or closer horticultural patches that are managed rather than large-scale cereal production systems, though it can be intercropped,” says Laurajean Lewis, the global director of genetic resources at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center in Mexico, in an interview with The Borgen Project.

“Okra is not a cereal. It is typically eaten green and you are generally harvesting the seed pods. Sometimes they are cut up and dried, then reconstituted later. They’re from the same plant family as hibiscus, just different species. The flowers of okra are harvested for tea,” Lewis shared.

How Better Okra Breeding Could Boost Nigerian Farmers

The African Vegetable Breeding Consortium (AVBC) is working with farmers in West Africa to explore how okra can be better positioned for the market. Okra is already highly valued in West African markets for its role in regional cuisine, but expanding its potential could increase its global appeal. The AVBC also supports vegetable breeding and crossbreeding different okra varieties could further strengthen the crop’s market potential.

Despite serving as an important source of nutrition for many people, okra has far less monetary value than traditional cash crops such as corn, rice and wheat. However, some scientists are working to improve okra’s marketability by focusing on one of its most distinctive traits: its sliminess. When cooked, okra produces mucilage, which is made primarily of pectin, a substance found in the cell walls of fruits and vegetables. 

Pectin is commonly used as a thickener and stabilizer in food processing, as well as a dissolvable additive in pharmaceuticals that target the colon. Globally, pectin is highly valuable and is typically extracted from citrus peels such as oranges and lemons. Researchers suggest that okra could serve as an alternative source of pectin, particularly in West Africa, where it is widely grown and used. 

This could be especially relevant for regional chocolate production, as Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire produce more than half of the world’s cocoa. Reducing reliance on imported pectin could help lower costs and improve supply efficiency for manufacturers in the region.

Final Remarks

Food insecurity in Nigeria remains a persistent challenge. However, with support from AVBC, okra has the potential to evolve from a subsistence crop into a viable cash crop that can support local farmers.

– Eddie Hofmann

Eddie is based in Seattle, WA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels