Archive for category: Developing Countries

Information and stories about developing countries.

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The UN Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program

The Early Childhood and Sustainable Development ProgramThe United Nations’ (U.N.) joint program, the Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program, was a key part of the COVID-19 recovery plan, running from March 2020 to February 2022. With an investment of $2.6 million for more than 24 months, the program aimed to address significant challenges in early childhood care. The pandemic exacerbated existing disparities in access to early child care services across different regions and income levels in Argentina, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions to support the most vulnerable communities.

Overview

The goal and impact of the Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program are noteworthy since it has worked toward breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty and inequalities for the most vulnerable groups: women, children, girls, people with disabilities, Indigenous groups and migrants. Promoting access to equitable childhood care services would provide an opportunity for children to get the proper intervention and education needed for their development, leading to a higher possibility of economic mobility. Additionally, child care services could allow parents to work or continue their education, enhancing the families’ economic stability.

In collaboration with the International Labor Organization (ILO), the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office (RCO), the United Nations Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (U.N. ECLAC), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program has benefited 5.2 million children aged 0-6, including 2.7 million from low-income backgrounds. The program aimed to reduce inequality gaps through strategies such as policy enforcement, funding and training for child care workers.

Impact in Argentina

The program supported the Argentine government to initiate the national early childhood strategy (ENPI) at regional and national levels. The government’s ongoing commitment is anticipated to guarantee that child care services remain well-distributed and accessible across the country, even beyond the duration of the U.N.’s joint program.

Another initiative of the U.N.’s Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program in Argentina was the creation of the Federal Care Map. This tool collects and monitors data on child care services using geo-referenced information. It helps assess which regions require funding most urgently. It also ensures the effective allocation of resources, particularly for Indigenous children in rural areas.

Lastly, the Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program trained 3,000 early childhood education and service care workers across Argentina. The program provided tools to address the psychosocial effects and developmental issues in children caused by the pandemic. It also supported the implementation of a new curriculum that emphasizes child care centers as places of belonging, care and comfort.

Moving Forward

The U.N.’s Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program in Argentina is a remarkable example of an effort to confront the root cause of continued poverty. It is anticipated that the long-lasting poverty can be overcome with national and sub-national efforts and active participation from the residents.

– Sein Kim

Sein is based in Bellevue, WA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Tackling Poverty Through Education in the Middle East

Education in the Middle EastEducation is a key determinant of economic stability and growth. In the Middle East, where poverty levels are high, access to education can significantly affect an individual’s economic prospects. According to Maher Hamoud, a professor of political economy at the University of Leuven, Belgium, “People tend to be easily manipulated when the level of education is low.” However, the relationship between education and poverty is not merely about individual empowerment; it also affects broader sociopolitical dynamics.

Hamoud notes that “a serious educational development plan must be implemented for at least a generation” to see significant societal changes. Unfortunately, the political instability in many Middle Eastern countries often disrupts long-term developmental planning, leading to inconsistent progress. For example, the 1967 Six-Day War between Egypt and Israel severely interrupted Egypt’s educational programs, demonstrating how conflict can derail efforts to improve schooling and, by extension, economic stability.

Current Educational Programs

Several initiatives throughout the region aim to address disparities. The World Bank’s Arabic Initiative focuses on improving the quality of education in the Middle East. This program emphasizes curriculum development, teacher training and technology integration in the classroom to provide students with the skills needed to compete in a globalized economy.

Amideast is another crucial player in the region. It offers academic opportunities that promote cross-cultural understanding and scholarly achievement. By providing professional training, English language instruction and scholarships, Amideast helps students from underprivileged backgrounds access quality education and improve their economic prospects. The organization’s initiatives have benefitted more than 1,900 exchange and scholarship students and empowered 19,000 youths and women through special programs.

Save the Children, known for its work in crises, has also been instrumental in the Middle East. The organization runs programs that provide schooling to youth in conflict zones, ensuring that even in the most challenging circumstances, young people have the opportunity to learn. These initiatives are crucial in regions where conflict and displacement have disrupted traditional education systems.

New Possibilities to Bridge the Inequality Gap

While existing programs have made significant strides, much work still exists to ensure all youth have access to quality education in the Middle East. One promising approach is the implementation of cash transfer programs, which provide financial incentives for families to keep their children in school. Cash transfer programs give money to increase a household’s income, reduce poverty and improve well-being. They have been successful in other regions and could help reduce economic barriers in the Middle East.

Investments from governments and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are also essential. Hamoud highlights the importance of sustained efforts, noting that “governments tend to avoid seriously investing in education.” He points to examples like Singapore, Malaysia and Kuwait, where long-term investment in education has led to significant improvements. Similar commitments in the Middle East could yield substantial benefits, facilitating a more educated and economically stable population.

Digital solutions offer another route for expanding educational access. Online learning platforms, mobile teaching initiatives and cyber classrooms can reach students in remote areas or conflict zones. These technologies can also standardize education across the region, ensuring that all students have access to the same high-quality resources. Despite physical and logistical challenges, today’s technology offers avenues to bridge inequality.

Looking Forward

Access to education in the Middle East is critical in reducing poverty levels. While current programs have made significant contributions, there is still a need for innovative solutions and sustained investment. With new possibilities such as cash transfers, investments and digital solutions, the region can work toward a future where every child can receive a quality education, regardless of socioeconomic background. Hamoud pointed out, “A serious educational development plan must be implemented for at least a generation.” With the right strategies, the Middle East can make significant strides toward alleviating poverty and achieving long-term economic stability.

– Asiya Siddiqui

Asiya is based in Fremont, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Village Enterprise: Equipping Business Owners in Rural Rwanda

Village EnterpriseIt has been 30 years since the tragic 1994 Rwandan genocide, and Rwanda is still reeling from its aftershocks. The conflict, which claimed 800,000 civilian lives and displaced 1.5 million people, left the country’s infrastructure in ruins, with homes, schools and medical centers reduced to rubble. That year, the United Nations (U.N.) reported that the poverty rate in Rwanda peaked at 78%, rendering a significant portion of the population unable to afford necessities. Today, nearly half of all Rwandans live below the poverty line and 16% are in extreme poverty. Yet, despite these grim statistics, hope is on the horizon for sustainable economic growth.

A Strategic Partnership

The Government of Rwanda seeks to eradicate extreme poverty by 2030. A strategic partnership with civil society organizations, such as the U.S.-based NGO Village Enterprise, could support this goal. Village Enterprise specializes in entrepreneurial training in rural Africa, equipping aspiring business owners with the necessary skills and capital to get their ideas off the ground.

In the next few years, its work in Rwanda will offer more than 31,000 participating households training, startup cash ($180 per small business group of target size three households) and business mentoring to support the launch of enterprises like hairdressing, farming and bicycle repair. As such, the program is a critical component of the government’s effort to reduce unemployment and boost the national standard of living.

Village Enterprise’s Poverty Graduation Approach

Village Enterprise’s poverty graduation approach has already shown significant success. This model, designed to lift individuals from extreme poverty and give them the tools to achieve financial independence, is a game-changer. Many beneficiaries, particularly women, who comprise 82% of the program, have reported a substantial increase in income, improved living conditions and a newfound sense of agency.

Celeste Brubaker, Chief of Impact and Innovative Financing at Village Enterprise recounts speaking with program participants indelibly proud of the progress they have made and the lives they have built: “The entrepreneurs often explain how their businesses have empowered them to achieve goals such as improving their diets, sending their children to school or upgrading their homes.” Stories like these underscore the people-centered mission at the heart of the fight against extreme poverty and emphasize its outsize impact.

Bellancile’s story is a testament to the program’s efficacy. Bellancile, 42, of Butare, Rwanda, shares: “I used to believe that a woman eats because her husband works, but now I’m the one feeding my family.” Bellancile’s experience is among many. Since Village Enterprise established its presence in Rwanda in 2021, nearly 14,000 entrepreneurs and 6,000 new businesses have emerged from its entrepreneurial program, with the figures to increase in the next couple of years.

A New and Promising Contribution

On July 17, 2024, the Fund for Innovation and Development (FID), an independent body hosted by the French Development Agency (AFD), issued a $1.3 million grant to Village Enterprise. These funds, combined with a $6.5 million grant awarded to the organization by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) last year, will cofinance its initial scaling work in Rwanda.

Village Enterprise is also partnering with the Rwandan government to extend the program’s reach, seeking to raise an additional $22 million to establish an outcomes fund, which Brubaker believes will “incentivize service providers who effectively support communities and discourage participation from less effective organizations.” Increasing the organization’s capacity beyond its current operations in four Rwandan districts could enable its entrepreneurial training to serve an additional 125,000 households by 2027.

Navigating the Challenges

Overall, the country’s economic outlook is positive. The World Bank reported a 7.6% growth in gross domestic product (GDP) for the first three quarters of 2023 and anticipates significant gains in the next two years. Village Enterprise’s entrepreneurial program has played a role in the country’s economic recovery. However, challenges persist, including external shocks, limited resources, ineffective sequencing, difficulties in impact measurement and disjointed coordination.

Despite the obstacles, though, Jean Pierre Sibomana, Village Enterprise’s Rwanda Scaling Project Director, points to reasons to be optimistic: “The country is focused on sustaining livelihoods through initiatives like Ejo Heza, a pension program for especially those working in the informal sector, as well as job creation and the development of the education sector… It’s a long journey, but looking at how committed the government is, it presents hope.” Indeed, Village Enterprise’s entrepreneurial training program, bolstered by philanthropic contributions, may prove a linchpin of the government’s efforts to eradicate extreme poverty in the near future.

Maurice Nirere, Village Enterprise’s Senior Manager of Monitoring and Evaluation in Rwanda, recommends other pan-African governments follow suit. He emphasizes the importance of international collaboration, stating that by “putting in place well-designed strategies and anti-poverty policies, [governments can demonstrate] a political willingness to combat poverty and [create] a room to collaborate with international agencies.” This call for global collaboration makes aid agencies and governments part of a shared mission and fosters a sense of shared responsibility.

Looking Ahead

Village Enterprise’s progress in Rwanda has made a tangible impact, changing lives and stabilizing rural areas embroiled in extreme poverty. Emerance of Rulindo, Rwanda, has forged a path to success and independence with the organization’s support. She and her business partners, Lucie and Domithile, are now not merely surviving but providing for their families in ways they never imagined possible. Their tenacity and even the name of their business, “Bright Future,” signal prosperous days ahead for thousands across Rwanda.

– Natalie Kaufman

Natalie is based in Orlando, FL, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything You Need to Know about Poverty in Jordan

Poverty in JordanThe Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, situated in the Southern Levant region of West Asia, borders the occupied Palestinian West Bank to the west and Iraq to the east. The nation’s most famous landmark, Petra, is one of the world’s seven wonders. Jordan, once home to several empires, including the Roman Empire, was a member of the Ottoman Empire until 1918. It was also a mandate of the United Kingdom before gaining independence in 1946. Despite its cultural significance, Jordan faces many challenges, including high poverty. A Department of Statistics report shows that 24.1% of Jordanians live in poverty. This means 2.72 million out of the 11.3 million are classified as vulnerable. The World Bank sets the poverty line of $7.90 per capita per day, a harsh reality for those living below that threshold in Jordan.

A Poor Economic State

Jordan’s economic state is reflected in its average monthly salary, which ranges from $850 to $1,130. Even so, the country has a high cost of living index of 41.2, posing a challenge for families in low-income households and worsening poverty. This makes it difficult for them to meet their needs. For comparison, the cost-of-living index in Egypt is 21.0. The cost of living exceeds the average salary of the local Jordanian population, making it difficult for them to live comfortably. Even though they earn less on average, a large portion of their income is spent on necessities, worsening Jordan’s poverty rates.

The Economic Research Forum notes that income inequality in Jordan is low, as measured by the Gini index. However, in 2016, the pre-tax national income shares of 10% of the distribution exceeded 40%, highlighting that most of the country’s income is concentrated among the wealthiest.

High Unemployment Rates

One reason for the high poverty levels in Jordan is the increase in unemployment rates among the Jordanian youth. According to the Department of Statistics, as of March 2024, the unemployment rate has increased to 21.4%. According to the Atlantic Council, long-standing issues in the labor market, such as a decline in the necessary skills for certain jobs within the population, are also contributing to rising unemployment rates.

Regional Instabilities

Wars in neighboring countries have put a significant strain on Jordanian society. The influx of refugees from these countries has increased the population to 11 million since 2000. With Jordan hosting more than 745,000 refugees, the government is at the forefront of hosting refugees per capita worldwide. This has impacted the labor markets, health care, educational quality and increased living expenses.

As refugees struggle to find jobs and face limited quality education and health care, many Syrians in Jordan rely on international aid. This creates pressure on Jordan’s already strained resources and creates challenges for both the host country and the refugees.

Children Are Among the Most Affected

As poverty rates rise in Jordan, the impact on children is becoming more evident. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) explains that of the 3.16 million children in Jordan, one in five is multidimensionally vulnerable. Furthermore, a World Health Organization (WHO) study found that 13.8% of the 9,734 births analyzed were underweight. This elevated low birth rate poses a significant challenge to public health in Jordan.

Moving Forward

As Jordan faces poverty challenges, it is implementing solutions to address them. According to the World Bank, in 2021, the Jordanian government launched a 10-year, three-track agenda to modernize politics, the public sector and the economy. The plan aims to create one million new jobs and empower women and children to participate in Jordanian politics. Consequently, according to a U.N. report, Jordan’s strategies have increased economic growth, rising from 2.4% in 2022 to 2.6% in 2023.

To assist refugees, Jordan has established a system to address their needs, including cash and voucher assistance schemes that also benefit Jordanian citizens. The support includes employment opportunities for both Jordanians and Syrians. More than 2.8 million people have benefited from this project, which improved local services and created 45,000 working days of employment.

In summary, Jordan is firmly working to address its high poverty rates through targeted assistance and modernization efforts, aiming to improve the lives of Jordanian citizens and refugees.

– Nouf Hunaiti

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

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Improving the State of Mental Health in Suriname

Mental Health in SurinameSuriname, ranked second by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) for its high suicide mortality rate (exceeding 10 deaths per 100,000 people), has only recently begun to address its mental health challenges. It wasn’t until 2015 that the first epidemiological research effort on depression and anxiety in the country’s population was conducted. This delay highlights the lack of attention previously given to mental health in Suriname. However, in recent years, there has been more focus on this issue and solutions are beginning to take shape.

The Mental Health of Indigenous Peoples

The Suriname Herald highlights the correlation between the effects of changing climatic conditions and the decreasing mental health of Indigenous populations is often overlooked. The article shares an interview with an Indigenous Surinamese woman who explains how varying weather conditions have affected the practice of traditional knowledge that was passed down through generations. As weather patterns change, drought causes some agricultural land to become infertile. In contrast, flooding causes harvests to fail in others. The stress and loss of centuries-old ancestral traditions that are tied to the well-being of the land is taking a toll on the mental health of Indigenous people.

In response, a joint effort between a Dutch and Surinamese University and the psychiatric center in Suriname launched the Suriname Indigenous Mental Health Study (SIMH) in 2023. The study aims to bridge the gap in understanding the mental well-being situation among the Indigenous population. With the knowledge gathered from the study, a framework can be built for mental health treatment that implements traditional Indigenous health care systems.

Youth and Women

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the concerning state of mental well-being among children and youth. In 2023, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported that 36.2% of youth in Suriname aged 16 to 25 years old have struggled with suicidal thoughts. Additionally, UNICEF found that about 75% of the youth experienced symptoms of stress or depression in 2022.

BMC Public Health’s 2022 study suggests that female respondents in the districts of Nickerie and Paramaribo were at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders. Researchers found possible cases of depression in 11.5% of male participants. This is in comparison to 19.4% of females from the population of Paramaribo. The cause of the difference between genders in the results is not yet determined. Possible factors contributing to poor mental health for women include limited economic opportunities, a lack of (financial) autonomy, domestic violence and limited family support.

Supporting Mental Health Services

UNICEF recently launched a one-year pilot program to improve mental health in Suriname, beginning in October 2023. The program focuses on the rural district of Nickerie in the Northwest and spans from October 2023 until October 2024. The issue is approached on three fronts:

  • Decreasing the stigma of mental health
  • Strengthening mental health services
  • Equipping parents with information regarding the psychosocial upbringing

The program aims to reach 25,000 people in Nickerie through a media campaign. Additionally, it aims to engage 500 children and 500 parents in an initiative to teach mental health skills. UNICEF shared the program’s accomplishments through March 2024:

  • Social media content and television broadcasts have been developed to raise awareness about mental well-being.
  • Progress has been made in setting up a helpline for mental health-related issues and self-harm prevention.
  • A program to teach children mental health skills is in development. It is expected to launch in the summer of 2024.
  • The first in a series of sessions to educate parents on mental well-being and how to support their children’s mental health was launched in May 2024.

Conclusion

Socioeconomic and climate-related issues impact mental health in Suriname. Studies have shown that women, youth and Indigenous people are disproportionately affected. The good news is that when the numbers are clear, solutions can start to take shape. UNICEF’s educational approach to positive mental health and the SIMH study that collaborates with Indigenous communities will positively impact mental health in Suriname for future generations.

– Tanisha Groeneveld

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

Photo: Flickr

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The Sahrawi Refugee Response Plan

Sahrawi refugeeThe Sahrawi refugee crisis, one of the longest-standing in the world after the displacement of Palestinians in 1948, continues to persist with little resolution in sight. Since 1975, following Spain’s withdrawal from Western Sahara and the ensuing armed conflict between Moroccan forces and the Polisario Front, approximately 173,600 Sahrawi refugees have lived in five camps near Tindouf, Algeria.

Current Situation

The Sahrawi refugees are scattered across five camps on the unforgiving “hammada,” a vast and remote desert plain in the Sahara. The most distant camp lies 170 kilometers southwest of the Algerian city of Tindouf, in an area marked by isolation and a lack of economic opportunities. The harsh climate, with temperatures soaring to 50 degrees Celsius in the summer, frequent sandstorms and occasional floods, further exacerbates challenges facing the refugees, such as limited access to necessities and health risks.

Food insecurity is a dire issue, with nearly 90% of the “Sahrawi refugees either food insecure or vulnerable to food insecurity.” A 2022 Joint Assessment Mission and Nutrition survey by the World Food Programme (WFP) reveals a worsening nutrition crisis. The prevalence of life-threatening wasting among children aged 6 months to 59 months has risen from 7.6% in 2019 to 10.7% in 2022. More than half of these children suffer from anemia, two-thirds do not receive the diverse diet needed for healthy development and nearly a third suffer from chronic malnutrition.

Furthermore, the refugees’ heavy dependence on international humanitarian aid, severe living conditions and food shortages have forced many households to cut back on health expenditures or sell off their livestock. Inadequate infrastructure severely hampers the delivery of essential services such as education and health care, leading to high child and maternal mortality rates and adversely affecting the population’s overall health and well-being.

Additionally, employment opportunities within the camps are minimal, leaving a third of Sahrawi refugees without any income and 60% economically inactive. The extreme climate and remoteness of the camps have curtailed traditional income sources like agriculture and livestock rearing. This is particularly detrimental to young people who, due to economic frustrations, may resort to high-risk activities such as smuggling and theft.

The Sahrawi Refugee Response Plan

In response to the myriad of challenges the Sahrawi refugees face, in 2003, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) launched the interagency Sahrawi Refugee Response Plan (SRRP). This initiative, requiring a total of $214 million, represents the first unified effort to address the needs of the Sahrawi refugee population. The plan brings together 28 partners, including the Algerian Red Crescent and the University of Madrid, to deliver coordinated humanitarian assistance.

The SRRP

The SRRP outlines several key priorities, including ensuring refugee protection and legal assistance and providing essential services such as food, shelter, health care and education. The plan also aims to improve water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) conditions in the camps, which are critical given the harsh desert environment.

In addition to these immediate needs, the SRRP aims to support livelihoods by providing essential supplies, vocational training and income-generating activities. This includes the distribution of 1,500 high-quality cooking stoves and 3,000 bales of second-hand clothes from UNIQLO. On the health care front, the plan addresses the prevalent malnutrition with supplementation, including iron and folic acid, systematic deworming and outpatient care for particularly severe cases.

Education is another focal point, with the SRRP aiming to improve the quality of instruction by training teachers and educational personnel. By tackling a broad scope of issues and closely coordinating with the Algerian government, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and other United Nations (U.N.) agencies, the SRRP aims to deliver a comprehensive and effective response, ideally addressing the immediate and long-term needs of the Sahrawi refugee population.

Challenges and Way Forward

A U.N. press briefing from November 2023 confirms that, although the plan has received some donor support, operations remain underfunded. The U.N. actively calls for additional contributions to implement the plan and fully sustain refugee humanitarian assistance. The success of the fundraising efforts is still being determined, but the plan is set to run through 2024 and 2025. By the end of this period, it will be evident whether these initiatives have provided the support needed to improve the livelihoods of the Sahrawi people and move them closer toward long-term stability and self-reliance.

– Asma Issa

Asma is based in London, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Renewable Energy Can Save Tunisia’s Economy

Tunisia's economyTunisia’s economy fell dramatically in 2023 due to several factors, including the aftermath of COVID-19, a severe drought and financial issues. These challenges have made Tunisia one of the slowest countries in the Middle East and North Africa to recover and stabilize its economy. The economic crisis, exacerbated by COVID-19, has led to a projected increase in multidimensional poverty, with the national poverty line expected to decline in 2024.

However, there is hope on the horizon. The World Bank has helped create a plan for recovery, showing significant improvement. The initiative, titled “The Renewed Energy to the Economy,” aims to boost the economy by 2.4% in 2024. One key strategy is to enhance Tunisia’s renewable energy resources, which is expected to contribute to economic growth.

The Impact of Expanding Renewable Energy in Tunisia

About 90% of Tunisia’s electricity is generated from natural gas, with more than half of it imported due to rising demand. By harnessing wind and solar resources, Tunisia could meet its electricity needs more sustainably. The country has the potential to generate up to 280 gigawatts (GW) of solar power, while its current peak electricity generation stands at only 5 GW. This significant capacity could greatly benefit the nation. This shift would also allow for the development of energy exports and decrease the amount of finances spent on importing fossil fuels, which can be directed elsewhere.

Presently, the cost of natural gas accounts for more than 70% of the cost of electricity produced. The plan sets a goal of generating 35% of Tunisia’s electricity from renewable sources, such as wind and solar, by 2030. This would mark a significant achievement, considering the country currently utilizes only 3% of its renewable resources. The total projected investment for this project is $4.5 billion. One of the key support systems for this initiative involves enhancing the electricity connection between Tunisia and Italy.

Alexandre Arrobbio, the World Bank’s Country Manager for Tunisia, says, “Despite ongoing challenges, there are significant opportunities for Tunisia to transform and strengthen its economy. With strategic investments, particularly in renewable energy, Tunisia could significantly enhance its economic resilience and sustainability.” The new transformative plan is ambitious and faces several environmental challenges, but it could be the economic solution Tunisia needs. Arrobbio suggests that transitioning to renewable resources and reducing dependence on international fossil fuels would not only improve the country’s financial position but also advance its move toward a sustainable lifestyle, adding a layer of security for Tunisia’s future.

Key to Sustainability

Tunisia needs to reduce the cost of electricity, especially given the rise in oil prices since 2022 and the reliance on natural gas for electricity production. The increasing cost of electricity from fossil fuels is becoming unsustainable. Renewable energy can significantly lower overall electricity costs, particularly amid volatile international energy prices. Revitalizing renewable energy has the potential to improve Tunisia’s economy, reduce poverty and move toward greater financial independence and sustainability.

– Charlotte Johnston

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

Photo: Flickr

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How the British Red Cross Helps People in the Sahel

People in the SahelThe Sahel is a region in the continent of Africa that includes countries such as Chad, Burkina Faso, Niger and Mauritania. The Sahel’s climate is semi-arid, meaning it experiences extended periods of dryness in the summer and rainy weather in the winter. As result of these weather conditions, drought and flooding are common and have a detrimental impact on the lives of people across the region, leading to the destruction of crops and food shortages.

When certain foods become scarce, prices soar, leaving people unable to afford the food they need to survive. As of December 2023, more than 150 million people across the Sahel found themselves unable to access an adequate amount of food and this number is sure to grow if changing climate conditions continue to influence weather conditions within the region. Spurred on by the desperate situation, the British Red Cross works tirelessly across the Sahel to improve living conditions for needy people.

Help for Communities

Through its Sahel Hunger Prevention Program, the British Red Cross helps people in the Sahel by establishing groups for young mothers to receive information on maintaining their health and their babies through good personal hygiene and nutrition. These groups also allow young mothers to develop their livelihoods, as the Red Cross provides them with seed funding to help cover the costs of setting up a small business and any personal expenses the women may have.

This scheme positively impacts women in the Sahel as it enables them to have financial independence and be strong, valued members of the community who can advocate for their own health and that of the region as a whole.

Support for Migrants

Migrants from nearby regions often travel to the Sahel for a better life. However, the transition to their new home is not always easy. The British Red Cross helps people in the Sahel by setting up service areas where migrants can access care for their physical and psychological health and necessities such as food and personal care items.

In addition to this, the British Red Cross provides support to migrants who have experienced distressing situations such as human trafficking and gender-based violence. To strengthen the relationship between migrants and natives, the organization helps people in the Sahel by holding sports games, allowing all community members to interact and share positive experiences.

Financial Assistance

Another way the British Red Cross helps people in the Sahel is by providing financial assistance through grants that enable those in need to access food, education and health care. In 2021, the charity organization facilitated cash distributions to 1,000 vulnerable families in Chad and Mauritania. As well as being beneficial on a personal level, this scheme also benefits the economy of the Sahel because if people are more able to afford food, then markets within the nation will continue to thrive. As a result, jobs will be created.

Furthermore, the British Red Cross helps people in the Sahel by supporting farmers and livestock owners in preparing for extreme weather conditions such as drought and flash flooding. Collaborating with the Niger Red Cross, it identifies early warning signs of impending severe weather. Then, it develops action plans to address these challenges. These plans include using drought-resistant seeds and providing financial assistance to farmers and their families if harvests are insufficient.

Summary

The British Red Cross supports the Sahel region through a range of initiatives. It empowers women with knowledge and resources to improve their lives and start businesses, aid migrants with health care and community integration and boost the local economy by providing financial assistance to families. The organization also helps farmers adapt to extreme weather conditions, enhancing crop resilience and providing financial aid during poor harvests. Overall, its efforts have significantly improved life in the Sahel, with hopes for continued positive impact.

– Sue-Joyce Headon

Sue-Joyce is based in Liverpool, UK and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Sudan’s Digital Transformation

Digital TransformationIn 2021, the World Bank stated that digital technologies can enable economic transformation in Africa and help create more jobs for its people. Africa’s share of global poverty increased from 15% in 1990 to 63% in 2018 and may reach 90% by 2030. Thus, the World Bank’s statement was repeated at the Sixth African Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Forum in April of this year. It was said that Africa has to invest in human capital development to learn how to produce, sell and use emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and genomics that are transforming every aspect of life. The need for digital transformation would ameliorate many private and public sectors by increasing the efficiency of service delivery to people with low incomes, monitoring living conditions and predicting imminent crises in crowded or remote areas.

The Case for Sudan

In the case of Sudan, technological growth is more important than ever because it is placed at the top of the International Rescue Committee’s (IRC) Emergency Watchlist for 2024. This was following Sudan’s escalating conflict, mass displacement, economic crisis and near collapse of health care services. Currently, a civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which erupted in 2023 but has been ever present since the coup d’état of Omar al-Bashir in 2019, has been driving humanitarian needs as 15.8 million people need humanitarian aid. While war continues to inflict further turmoil on the state, the hope of Sudan’s digital transformation can allow grassroots progression in the face of leadership-level destruction.

Empowering Female Farmers

Poverty is tackled head-on in Sudan’s digital transformation through nuclear technology to help female farmers. Agriculture is the primary source of income and livelihood for up to 80% of the population in Sudan. In a project funded in part through the Peaceful Uses Initiative (PUI), local scientists from the Agricultural Research Cooperation (ARC) were trained and provided technical support by experts. Scientists at Kassala Research Farm used the soil moisture neutron probe technique to measure moisture levels in soil, helping quantify crops’ water needs. They also employed the nitrogen-15 isotopic technique to optimize nitrogen fertilizer applications. These studies informed the water and fertilizer delivery through the drip irrigation system. This technology has enabled the water-scarce nation to continue farming. It can save up to 70% of water, allowing for more extensive agriculture.

Hundreds of women, many refugees or internally displaced, relied on their husbands’ incomes and had limited access to food, leading to malnutrition. However, small-scale farms and home gardens optimized with nuclear technology have enabled them to grow various vegetables, benefiting their families and entire villages. Rashid Sir El Khatim, Coordinator, Talawiet Organization for Development, Sudan, has asserted the project’s success because “If the women are empowered, they can share in the decision-making in the family and the community. It helps to reduce poverty and it makes future planning more effective. When women are empowered, the community is more empowered.”

Mobile Money, Digital Finance and Internet Connectivity

The civil war in Sudan has led to a mass exodus, with people being displaced from their homes, shops and businesses, resulting in widespread looting and loss of possessions. Financial technology (fintech) uses computer programs and other technology to support or enable banking and financial services. In Sudan, this allows people with a mobile phone and internet connection to more safely buy basic groceries, settle bills and receive money from abroad, easing some of the hardships.

When interviewed by The New Humanitarian, Sudanese citizen Hussein stated, “I only realized the value of [fintech] when my money and belongings were stolen right in front of my eyes.” For displaced people, this is a safety measure as much as it guarantees putting food on the table for loved ones. Bank of Khartoum’s Bankak is a smart app that facilitates easier and more secure transactions, savings and access to credit. Applications like this have been pivotal in providing financial services to the unbanked population.

Final Remark

Sudan’s digital transformation offers hope amid conflict, economic instability and humanitarian crises. The country can achieve significant socioeconomic improvements by leveraging fintech and nuclear technology in agriculture. Apps like Bank of Khartoum’s Bankak and digital wallets such as MyCash and RittalPay provide secure financial services to the unbanked, enabling economic activities and resilience. Nuclear technology empowers women farmers, optimizing resources and fostering food security. These targeted interventions highlight the transformative potential of digital technologies for financial resilience and social empowerment. For Sudan, digital transformation is essential for survival and a better future.

– Kathryn Dodd

Kathryn is based in the United Kingdom and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Reducing Poverty in Egypt: Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Reducing Poverty in EgyptEgypt, a nation steeped in millennia of history, faces contemporary challenges that test its ability to reduce poverty while maintaining its rich cultural heritage. The delicate balance between preserving tradition and embracing modernity is crucial for sustainable development and reducing poverty in Egypt.

Traditional Approaches to Poverty Alleviation

Egypt’s history of community-based support systems and charitable giving, rooted in Islamic traditions, plays a significant role in poverty reduction. Zakat, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, mandates Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to the less fortunate. This practice, deeply embedded in Egyptian society, has historically provided a safety net for many impoverished families.

Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs) like the Misr El Kheir Foundation, driven by these traditional values, have been pivotal in offering food, clothing, education and health care to those in need. These organizations operate through local networks, ensuring aid reaches even the most remote areas. The emphasis on community and familial bonds further reinforces the support system, making it a resilient method of reducing poverty in Egypt.

Modern Initiatives and Government Programs

While traditional methods form the backbone of poverty reduction efforts, modern initiatives spearheaded by the government and international agencies are indispensable. The Egyptian government has launched several programs for economic reform and social protection. These include:

  1. Takaful and Karama Programs: Launched in 2015, these social safety nets financially assist the most impoverished families. Takaful (Solidarity) offers conditional cash transfers linked to health and education, ensuring children attend school and receive medical care. Karama (Dignity) supports older and disabled people with unconditional cash transfers.
  2. Economic Reform Program: In partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Egypt embarked on an ambitious economic reform program in 2016. Measures included floating the Egyptian pound, cutting subsidies and implementing value-added tax (VAT). Despite initial hardships, these reforms have stabilized the economy, attracted foreign investment and created jobs, reducing poverty in Egypt.
  3. Infrastructure Development: Investments in infrastructure, such as the New Administrative Capital and the expansion of the Suez Canal, aim to boost economic growth and job creation. These projects modernize the country’s infrastructure and provide employment opportunities, thereby reducing poverty.

Challenges and the Path Forward

Balancing tradition with modernity in poverty reduction efforts comes with challenges. The initial impact of economic reforms, such as inflation and subsidy cuts, strained many families. Additionally, ensuring that aid reaches those in need without getting lost in bureaucratic inefficiencies remains a concern.

To address these challenges, Egypt continues to refine its strategies. Enhancing transparency and accountability in government programs ensures more effective distribution of resources. Integrating technology, such as digital cash transfers and mobile banking, further streamlines aid delivery and widens access to financial services for people experiencing poverty.

Education and vocational training are critical for equipping the youth with skills needed for the modern job market. Investing in quality education and aligning curriculum with market needs can prepare future generations to contribute to and benefit from economic growth.

Conclusion

Egypt’s efforts to reduce poverty demonstrate a nuanced approach, respecting traditional values while embracing necessary modern reforms. The synergy of these efforts, bolstered by community spirit and innovative government programs, is essential for sustainable poverty alleviation. By continuing to adapt and evolve, Egypt can ensure a harmonious future where economic progress and cultural heritage coexist, providing a better quality of life for all its citizens.

– Rika Mokal

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

Photo: Pixabay