Archive for category: Food Insecurity

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Innovations in Poverty Eradication in Nicaragua

Poverty Eradication in NicaraguaIn 2006, Nicaragua had 50% of its population living in poverty. The Latin American country is one of the poorest in the region, characterized by low income and a substantial food deficit. The country is susceptible to natural disasters, including earthquakes, hurricanes, floods and droughts, which significantly impact the primary livelihood of the population working in agriculture. These disasters corrupt crops and restrict access to food, creating a recurrent cycle of poverty. Here is information about poverty and poverty eradication in Nicaragua.

Energy Crisis in Nicaragua

Between 2005 and 2006, Nicaragua experienced an energy crisis that resulted in repeated electricity supply interruptions lasting 8 to 12 hours. This crisis was primarily due to a deficit in generation capacity, which stemmed from limited growth in installed capacity, the long-term unavailability of existing large power plants due to extended maintenance periods and dry winters that reduced output from hydropower plants. Rising oil prices worsened the situation, which in turn increased the costs of oil derivatives, including transportation fuels and fuels used for electricity generation, such as fuel oil and diesel. As a consequence, electricity prices also rose significantly. The energy distribution company incurred substantial transmission and distribution losses but was unable to pass these costs on to customers, resulting in a severe liquidity issue for the company.

Food Insecurity in Nicaragua

With approximately 45% of its population living on less than $1 per day, aid organizations have identified food insecurity as a critical development issue in the country. This challenge is primarily due to limited access to affordable food rather than an actual shortage of food supply. During the Global Food Crisis from 2006 to 2008 and in light of ongoing fluctuations in global markets, the prices of essential food items in Nicaragua have increased considerably, resulting in heightened price instability. Consequently, it is estimated that nearly 30% of the Nicaraguan population suffers from undernourishment, with women and children being particularly vulnerable to the impacts of food insecurity and undernutrition.

The Nicaraguan people elected the Sandinista National Liberation Front, whose priorities included reducing poverty, focusing on education, providing free health care and improving community infrastructure. The party addressed these goals with government programs and global organizational support.

Sustainable Electrification and Renewable Energy

Since 2007, the government has focused its attention on poverty eradication in Nicaragua through national development. In 2010, the SNLF launched the National Program for Sustainable Electrification and Renewable Energy (PENSER) framework, aiming to provide access to modern and endurable electricity services.

The project received funding from the OPEC Fund for International Development and various development finance institutions. The funds strived to improve existing power structures through repairs and upgrades, enhancing energy access. The project’s extended purpose included providing employment opportunities and ensuring stable electricity access to households in rural communities. Furthermore, the scheme aimed to reduce energy costs for goods and people, thereby improving access to essential services, including health, education and social welfare.

The World Food Programme

A fifth of Nicaraguan households live in poverty, and nearly 7% of residents live in extreme poverty. The World Food Programme (WFP) has been working in Nicaragua since 1971, supporting projects that promote food protection, nutrition, livelihood repair and sustainable market access. The WFP provides hot meals for more than 180,000 students through the National School Feeding Program of the Ministry of Education, as well as ready-to-eat food kits during disasters. The organization supports the development of smallholder farmers through sustainable food systems. It helps farmers improve their economic resilience through crop diversification and increase access to insurance, which in turn enhances their climate resilience. 

A lack of food stability is linked to the growing climate disasters plaguing Nicaragua, including droughts, hurricanes, earthquakes and floods. Therefore, the WFP’s continued contribution to the country, which relies heavily on agriculture, provides support and funds to key social and health services.

Looking Forward

According to the World Food Programme, poverty eradication efforts in Nicaragua have decreased poverty by 25.1% in 2023. Since the implementation of the PENSAR and WFP contribution, the country has the best roads and hospitals in the region, a 70% reduction in maternal mortality rates, and ranks number one in the world in educational attainment for women and girls, as well as sixth for overall gender equality. The project’s growth continues to improve the lives of the Nicaraguan people and the communities in which they reside.

– Phoebe Guildford

Phoebe is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Vocational Education Training Centers in The Bahamas

Vocational Education Training Centers in the BahamasThe One Eleuthera Foundation is a nonprofit organization that funds vocational education training centers in The Bahamas, in both Eleuthera and Harbour Island. Its technical programs provide hands-on training for a number of different careers, in order to promote “sustainable social and economic empowerment and development” within its community.

Poverty and Food Insecurity in The Bahamas

The Bahamas is a fairly wealthy country, with a GDP of $13.2 billion USD. However, this outward facing wealth masks “important structural, social, and economic challenges” that require attention. Issues like poor infrastructure, marked income inequality and vulnerability to natural disasters deeply affect the population of The Bahamas and contribute to the relatively high rate of poverty.

The percentage of people living below the poverty line rose from 9.3% in 2001 to 12.8% in 2013, the last time the Household Expenditure Survey was conducted. In addition, the rate of poverty is almost double the average in households where the head does not possess any sort of formal schooling, sitting at 25%.

Many families in The Bahamas are also dealing with issues of food insecurity. The lack of infrastructure makes it difficult to monitor this issue. However, it is apparent through the fact that many people, especially children in school, have considerable difficulty accessing nutritious food. Because The Bahamas has a small landmass and does not possess an ideal geography for agriculture, they are heavily dependent on food that is imported from other countries. This makes healthy, high quality food more expensive and less accessible for the population. 

Providing Sustainable Solutions

Combatting both issues of poverty and food insecurity is the One Eleuthera Foundation, which is focused on sustainable community improvement. Its two Centers for Training and Innovation (CTI) provide education for a wide variety of careers, including courses in carpentry, culinary arts, sewing, housekeeping, electrical installation, plumbing, nail technology and many others. Its mission is to provide quality education to Bahamians, in order to allow them more and better employment opportunities to provide for themselves and their families. In June 2024, they had 63 students graduate from both of its vocational education training centers in The Bahamas, in Harbour Island and South Eleuthera.

However, what makes the CTI stand out from other vocational education training centers in The Bahamas (such as the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute) is its Training Farm. The goal of this farm is to educate farmers on sustainable and advanced growing techniques, and increase the amount of food grown locally. The facilities of the solar powered farm include a one acre greenhouse, a hydroponic pond, raised soil beds and a honey processing facility for local beekeepers to name a few. It also offers a variety of classes and workshops for local farmers year-round, either free of charge or at a very low cost.

Another element of its Training Farm is the Farmer’s Fresh Market, where residents can come and purchase fresh produce from the farm, as well as other local goods and specialty items. This is an incredible initiative that makes local, high quality fruits and vegetables more easily accessible to the population.

Looking Ahead

Poverty and food insecurity are still issues that impact the quality of life of Bahamians. However, through its CTI, the One Eleuthera Foundation is helping to build a community of people who are able to produce more food, as well as support both themselves and its economy. It is making a tangible positive impact, one student at a time.

– Delaney Gouveia

Delaney is based in Newport, RI, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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The Price of Rice: Rising Rice Prices in the Philippines

Rising Rice Prices in the Philippines Rice is more than just a staple food in the Philippines, it is also a cornerstone of daily life, culture and survival for millions. Not only is rice a core nutritional component to the Filipino diet, but it is also a major source of income for millions of Filipino farmers, so much so that rice is the single most important agricultural crop in the Philippines. Unfortunately, in recent years, rising rice prices in the Philippines have put enormous pressure on Filipino households, worsening a poverty crisis that has long plagued the country.

A Surge in Prices

In 2024, the country experienced one of the worst rice price hikes in decades due to the Russia-Ukraine war and the export restrictions that India imposed. By March 2024, rice inflation soared to 24.4%, a staggering increase that has greatly affected the people of the Philippines. The Philippines, which heavily relies on rice imports to stabilize its supply, was caught between global price fluctuations, local supply chain issues and climate-related production setbacks. As prices climbed, families that spent a significant portion of their income on food found themselves choosing between meals and other essentials.

Poverty statistics have illustrated the direct result of this inflation. By the end of 2024, 63% of Filipino families considered themselves poor, according to a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey. That figure marked a 17% increase from just nine months prior and represented the highest self-rated poverty level in over 20 years.

Many respondents attributed their worsening condition to the surge in food prices, especially rice. This increase hit the poorest Filipinos—often small-scale farmers, informal workers and residents of rural areas—the hardest.

Government Response

Recognizing the urgency of the crisis, the Philippine government implemented several key measures, including an executive order No. 62 (July 2024), which reduced rice import tariffs to bring in cheaper foreign rice and curb inflation. This helped minimize rice inflation from 19.6% in December 2023 to 0.8% by December 2024.

To further aid in the rising rice prices, the Department of Social Welfare and Development launched a subsidized rice initiative, selling rice at 29 pesos per kilo to poor households. This program reportedly helped feed more than 35 million Filipinos.

By March 2025, inflation had slowed to 1.8%, its lowest in nearly five years, driven in part by a 7.7% drop in rice prices. Despite short-term progress, experts warn that the Philippines remains vulnerable to recurring food crises. The agricultural sector suffers from underinvestment, outdated farming practices, climate risks and logistical inefficiencies. More than 10 million Filipino rice farmers still struggle with low productivity and limited government support. In the long run, solving the rice crisis is not just about lowering prices, it is about transforming the system.

Final Remarks 

The recent rising rice prices in the Philippines revealed how tightly the issues of food and poverty correlate in the Philippines. While emergency responses have provided a degree of relief, long-term solutions will require structural reforms and sustained political will. Experts and officials aiming to boost domestic rice production and reduce import dependence are pushing long-term agriculture reforms. The continued push of agricultural reforms is essential to breaking the cycle of poverty and building a more equitable future for the Philippine people.

– Meagan Beaver

Meagan Beaver is based in Zephyrhills, FL, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Fragility and Rule of Law in Sudan

Rule of Law in SudanThe civil war has impacted fragility and the rule of law in Sudan, and the safety of 50 million people. According to the World Food Programme (WFP), a total of 24.6 million people are acutely food insecure, while 637,000 face catastrophic levels of hunger. Meanwhile, Sudan is in the top four countries in the world for the highest prevalence of global acute malnutrition, at an estimated 13.6%. Sudan has also lost an estimated 5.2 million jobs, and economic activity in Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, has plummeted.

The conflict has weakened central governance and key infrastructure, requiring humanitarian efforts from the international community. However, armed clashes, widespread insecurity and lack of funding has made it increasingly difficult for aid agencies to reach affected communities.

About the Recent Civil War

The current Sudanese civil war began on April 15 2023, during Ramadan, when Rapid Support Force (RSF) members were deployed across the country, a move which the Sudanese armed forces saw as a threat. Before this, Political disagreements increased tensions between Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the de facto president and head of Sudan’s armed forces, and his deputy, Gen. Mohamed ‘Hamedti’ Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the RSF. The two rose to power after the 2019 coup of dictator Omar al-Bashir, as well as subsequent coups of the transitional government.

Disagreements centered on the increase of Hamedti’s power in government, the integration of the RSF into the Sudanese army, and the multiple delays in establishing a democratic government. Bouts of conflict have wracked the rule of law in Sudan since its independence in 1956, when it was already embroiled in the first Sudanese civil war.

Sudan’s History

Before independence, Sudan was part of the Anglo-Egyptian condominium. Although both the U.K. and Egypt administered the region, the U.K. held more authority. In 1954, both countries signed a treaty which would grant sovereignty to the new Republic of Sudan in 1956. Despite this, war gripped the country when the first Sudanese civil war began in 1955 as a result of cultural divides and political and economic inequality in the region.

Britain governed the Sudanese north and south as different entities. The north comprised wealthier, more educated Arab and Muslim populations, whereas the south comprised poorer Christian or pagan peoples who were less politically conscious. Due to its wealth, the north leveraged more political power from both colonial and post-colonial administrations, thereby driving further inequality between the regions. Discontent between the North and South grew after the 1947 Juba conference, where both the North and South would be subsumed into one government, further dissipating southern autonomy. In addition, northern Islamization and Arabization of the south heightened even further animosity between the two. The aftermath of the war and continuation of North/South inequalities would lay the groundwork for the second Sudanese civil war in 1983, and would also lead to the succession of South Sudan in 2011.

The Dictatorship of Omar Al-Bashir

In 1989, during the second Sudanese civil war, Brigadier General Omar Al-Bashir ousted the democratically elected government in a military coup and became head of state. Accusations of electoral fraud and corruption marred his dictatorship of the country, which incited numerous protests. Furthermore, his governance focused heavily on strict Sharia law interpretations, with many rights taken away through morality policing and persecution of religious minorities and Sunni apostates.

In 2009, the International Criminal Court (ICC) indicted him for five counts of crimes against humanity and two counts of war crimes. Then, in 2010, the ICC added three additional counts of Genocide to his indictment. These charges related to the treatment of ethnic minorities, including the Fur, Zaghawa and Masalit, during the Darfur war.

 In 2019, a military coup that the SAF and RSF jointly carried out overthrew him. The aftermath left a power vacuum, impacting the rule of law in Sudan and the fragility of the government.

A New Government

On March 4, 2025, the RSF and allied groups signed a transitional constitution for a parallel government in regions under their military control. The new government aims to gain diplomatic legitimacy from opposing forces and establish more access to advanced weaponry.

In a UN Security Council meeting, U.S. Representative John Kelley stated, “Attempts by the RSF and aligned actors to establish a government in RSF-controlled territory in Sudan are unhelpful for the cause of peace and security in Sudan, and risk a de facto partition of the country.”

The 2025 Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan

In December 2024, the U.N.’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) developed the 2025 Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan. It aimed to provide humanitarian assistance to 21 million people and reduce mortality in areas with a risk of further deterioration of rule of law in Sudan.

Recently as part of the response plan, between May 4th and 8th, the World Food Programme distributed food to more than 335,000 people in Tawila in response to worsening conditions. This program has raised $600 million, however, this falls woefully short of the much-needed total requirement of $4.1 billion.

Because of global funding shortfalls, the Emergency Relief Coordinator asked humanitarian teams to ensure that the most life-saving assistance reaches the most vulnerable populations.

It has shortened its target to 17.3 million people, for which $2.4 billion is needed to provide. This amounts to $0.38 per person per day over one year.

On March 10th, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, commented on the funding shortfalls in a press release. She stated that “The abrupt funding cuts and suspensions will end life-saving humanitarian assistance for millions of women, children and other vulnerable groups across the country. Without urgent funding, famine is likely to spread in the coming months. This is a time when every lifeline must flow to save lives. I call on all our major donors to reconsider their decisions to reduce funding for life-saving humanitarian assistance in Sudan. I also urge other governments, donors, foundations, charities, faith-based networks, the private sector and individuals to urgently step up to help fill the gaps left by these devastating reductions.”

–  Samuel Devine

Samuel is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Being Poor in Nicaragua: Life on the Edge of Survival

Being Poor in NicaraguaPoverty in Nicaragua is not just a number. It is a daily struggle for families who face limited opportunities, unpredictable income and fragile public services. Even with modest economic growth on paper, everyday life for many remains uncertain. When disaster hits—be it a drought, job loss or storm—there is often little room to recover.

A Nation of Beauty and Inequality

Nicaragua, bordered by Honduras and Costa Rica, is known for its volcanoes, lakes and vibrant culture. Yet for many of its citizens—especially in rural areas— economic fragility overshadows these scenic images. According to the World Bank, approximately 12.5% of the population lived below the international poverty line of $3.65 per day in 2023.

This figure masks deeper inequalities. About 73% of the rural population depends on agriculture, where work is seasonal and wages are low. Failed harvests are not only financial setbacks—they often mean food insecurity for entire families, according to the World Food Programme (WFP).

Adding to the challenge, remittances made up 26% of Nicaragua’s GDP in 2023, according to the World Bank. This reliance on income from abroad highlights the painful fact that many families survive only because loved ones have left home.

The Human Face of Poverty

Being poor in Nicaragua means limited access to clean water, health care and education. In rural communities, homes are often built with scrap materials and lack proper toilets or plumbing. Children face high rates of malnutrition and many families struggle to meet even the most basic dietary needs.

Environmental disasters only make things worse. Hurricanes, flooding and droughts are common and can wipe out crops, damage homes and isolate villages. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned that extreme weather events often reverse development gains, keeping families trapped in poverty.

Political and Economic Tensions

Politics in Nicaragua remain tense. The government, led by President Daniel Ortega, has received criticism for stifling opposition and limiting freedoms. These issues have led to international sanctions and reduced foreign investment, which affects funding for public services and development programs.

Although the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected Nicaragua’s economy would grow by 3.6% in 2024, many of the country’s poorest people are not feeling the impact. Growth often benefits urban centers or large businesses, leaving rural communities behind.

Solutions

Despite these challenges, local and international organizations are working to make a difference. Opportunity International has been active in Nicaragua for nearly 20 years, partnering with micro-entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses that help families lift themselves out of poverty.

Support also comes from other NGOs. The Fabretto Foundation is improving education in under-resourced areas by training teachers and equipping rural classrooms. Meanwhile, Catholic Relief Services helps farmers manage climate risks through sustainable practices such as soil conservation and drought-resistant crops, building long-term resilience in vulnerable communities.

Final Thoughts

Being poor in Nicaragua means living with uncertainty, but it does not have to stay that way. With targeted policies, community-driven efforts and international support, progress is possible. Each step forward—whether it is a harvest that survives the season, a child finishing school or a family opening a small shop—brings hope that poverty in Nicaragua can be challenged and one day, overcome.

– Charlie Baker

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

Photo: Unsplash

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3 Organizations Tackling Food Insecurity in Somalia

Food Insecurity SomaliaSeveral organizations, including the World Food Program (WFP), the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Action Against Hunger, are working to help combat the long-standing issue of food insecurity in Somalia. For decades, Somalia has struggled with malnutrition and food shortages, with more than 4 million people currently facing severe hunger.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Hunger and food insecurity can lead to a range of social and economic problems. According to the WFP, these issues include protests over rising food prices and conflict over scarce resources. Chronic hunger also undermines personal well-being and productivity, especially for children, making it harder for them to succeed in school and continuing the cycle of poverty.

In recent years, Somalia has experienced increasingly extreme weather conditions, with the drought from 2020 to 2023 affecting more than 8 million people. Droughts have a devastating impact on food supplies by significantly reducing the water available for agriculture, further deepening the crisis. Also, agriculture is a large part of Somalia’s economy, contributing to 70% of the total Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

WFP, IRC and Action Against Hunger

The WFP is delivering life-saving food and nutrition assistance. In collaboration with the Somali government, WFP is implementing integrated programs aimed at building long-term food security, particularly for drought-affected households. In 2022, when Somalia was hit with severe rain, WFP delivered cash transfers to more than 100,000 people to help them recover from the climate disasters. The organization is working hard to recieve additional funding, particularly from the U.S. that will allow them to continue reaching approximately 820,000 people every month.

The IRC has been active in Somalia since 1981, supporting communities recovering from crises such as droughts and floods. By partnering with local civil society organizations and government institutions, the IRC provides targeted support to vulnerable populations, helping them rebuild after disasters and regain stability.

Another key player in fighting food insecurity in Somalia is Action Against Hunger, which has been making a significant impact since 1992. Currently reaching more than 1 million people, the organization focuses on delivering essential nutrition services to some of the country’s hardest-hit areas. Their efforts are crucial in addressing the challenges of food insecurity in the region.

The Work Never Stops

Through their dedicated efforts, these organizations are not only addressing immediate needs but also striving to find long-term solutions to break the cycle of food insecurity in Somalia. Their commitment provides hope while also highlighting the importance of continued support for this cause and the need to discover new ways to improve conditions in the country.

– Knia Parks

Knia is based in Pepper Pike, OH, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Technologies to Prevent Food Insecurity in Morocco

Technologies to Prevent Food Insecurity in Morocco In 2024, Morocco suffered a 50% decrease in its wheat harvests, compared to the previous year, leaving many farmers and rural labourers without work or income. Although Morocco has always battled droughts and water shortages, the effects have become more apparent in the past decade. According to ROPUR, 40% of the Moroccan workforce participates in agricultural activities, with 137,000 jobs lost to the drought in 2024.

The lack of rainfall and reservoirs affects not just the rural populations in the most barren parts of Morocco, but also urban centers such as Rabat, which came close to a total dry up in 2023. Despite the inevitable threat of a water shortage in the country, foreign investors have partnered with scientists from Mohammed VI Polytechnic University to utilize technology in reducing the economic and health consequences associated with droughts and food insecurity.

Agritech and the Green Generation Strategy

A particular project that has worked effortlessly to solve food insecurity in Morocco is Agritech. The Green Generation Strategy (2020-2030), set out by King Mohammed VI, aims to modernise the Moroccan agricultural sector of the economy, not only to boost exports, but also to support the 73% of people living in rural Morocco who work in agriculture. 

As a product of this 10-year strategy, Agritech aims to provide precise and timely information to farmers through a mixture of satellite-based imagery, drones and artificial intelligence in order to help the sector better prepare for droughts. 

Al Moutmir: Irrigation and Job Creation

Agriculture in Morocco accounts for 14% of GDP, meaning slight shifts in the climate during growing seasons can have catastrophic consequences for locals. Among the frequent effects of climate shifts is a reduction in the rural labor force. However, through technological innovation, projects such as Al Moutmir have overcome some of these challenges.

Through its gravity-fed irrigation systems, some farmers have been able to reduce their field water losses from 40% to just 15%. In addition, the umbrella strategy that Al Moutmir forms a part of – Le Plan Maroc Vert –has created an additional 342,000 jobs since its inception in 2008. 

Sand to Green and Terraa

While organizations and partnerships in Morocco have taken direct action on combating food insecurity and water shortages, a hybrid of both physical and virtual uses of technology has benefited farmers. For example, Sand to Green uses technology to insert green spaces into previously arid lands or solar-powered desalination methods to increase the flow of appropriate water for agriculture.

Terraa, on the other hand, is a digital network that farmers use to distribute their products efficiently and cost-effectively so as to avoid waste in times of surplus. Through the combination of the two, farmers can work toward a more stable harvest, all the while selling their produce for a price that is fair for their work. As such, the Moroccan agricultural sector reinforces itself in the long term and expands its GDP. 

Looking Ahead

Although droughts are an inevitable reality in Morocco, state-of-the-art technology allows small and large-scale farmers to prepare for the worst. Although Morocco may seem like a distant country, 34% of Moroccan exports to the U.K. are fruits and vegetables, meaning a stable agricultural industry in Morocco leads to a consistent supply for British consumption. 

– Alfie Williams-Hughes

Alfie is based in Nottingham, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Food Security in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Food Security in the U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), an unincorporated United States territory, comprises the three Caribbean islands of Saint Thomas, Saint John and Saint Croix. They span 737 square miles of hilly, rugged and mountainous terrain, with little flat land and less than 3% arable. The islands are sparsely populated (a total of 104,477) with low density. The USVI is a high-income country based on tourism due to its beautiful beaches and subtropical climate. Although on the whole its climate is attractive, the islands also experience frequent hurricanes, e.g., the back-to-back Category 5 Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Here is information about food security in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Food Security in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Several factors challenge food security in the U.S. Virgin Islands. These include climate (hurricanes and drought), poor soil quality, limited crop diversification, lack of value-added processing, high cost of food production and limited food distribution networks. The government offers no programs or incentives to encourage the development of agricultural or food businesses. The U.S. Virgin Islands import almost all food consumed (97%). A recent study of USVI food systems also noted infrastructure issues, especially related to water capture and storage; and sociocultural factors (e.g., lifestyle, history of slavery, land ownership questions). 

Adding to food security challenges in the U.S. Virgin Islands is the islands’ extent of poverty, reported by the 2020 Decennial Census to be 23% (19% on St. John, 21% on St. Thomas and 25% on St. Croix). 

In November 2022, the country’s food insecurity was acknowledged in USVI Governor Bryan’s proclamation of November 12-20, 2022, as “Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.” The proclamation thanked those who provided services and called upon everyone to partner financially and/or volunteer to provide aid to eliminate hunger and homelessness.

USVI Hunger: US Assistance

Likely due to its size, the USVI is not included in global assessments such as the Global Hunger Index and the Global Nutrition Report. But that does not mean that hunger is nonexistent in the islands. As a U.S. territory, the Virgin Islands benefits from various assistance programs—SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program/food stamps), school meal programs, food programs for low-income students and families. 

When the U.S. Congress cut SNAP benefits in December 2022, it was reported that the reduction of average SNAP benefits to $6/person/day affected almost 11,000 USVI households. The steepest drop was for many older adults. The cuts were due to ending Emergency Allotments related to COVID-19 and meant that USVI lost $2.1 million in assistance. These cuts had a domino effect down the food chain, on farmers and ranchers, food manufacturers, truckers, retailers and their employees. In the spring of 2025, this assistance was in jeopardy, the extent of impact depending on the budget to be approved by the U.S. Congress.

Addressing Food Security

Virgin Islands Good Food (VGF), established in 2012, is a nonprofit whose mission is “to cultivate a unique and nourishing food system for innovation, economic development, and agricultural growth,” connecting consumers, the government and private industry. Its work includes, but is not limited to, market creation and access, education and services and assistance for farmers. In February 2024, VGF hosted the first Island Food Systems Summit at the University of the Virgin Islands. U.S. Department of Agriculture representatives and representatives from the National Black Food & Justice Alliance participated with other partners and Virgin Island farmers and producers. They discussed multisector collaboration, farmer empowerment, disaster response strategies and youth engagement in food systems, in an overall effort to increase food security and sustainability. 

For 20 years, the University of the Virgin Islands has observed World Food Day as an educational initiative aiming to eradicate hunger in the Virgin Islands. The university’s School of Agriculture focuses on food security and especially children’s access to nutritious meals. World Food Day 2024 included a seedling giveaway and educational workshops on cooking, composting and gardening. The School of Agriculture also organizes food drives to support local organizations such as My Brother’s Table and the Lighthouse Mission.

In January 2025, Governor Bryan signed into law the Virgin Islands Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan. The framework of the Comp Plan focuses on:

  • Development guidance
  • Responsible land and water resource use, consistent with environmental protection
  • Preservation of environmentally sensitive areas, coastlines and historic sites
  • Prioritization of investments to improve community services and infrastructure

Self-Sufficiency and Food Security in the U.S. Virgin Islands

In February 2025, the USVI Delegate to Congress, Stacey Plaskett, encouraged the islands to increase agricultural independence, which could lead to greater food self-sufficiency and thus reduce the country’s total reliance on food imports. “We here in the Virgin Islands, we don’t just need to tighten our belts,” Plaskett said. “That’s austerity measures that we know we need, but we need to create self-sufficiency, food security, to come up with innovative ways that we will make up that gap for our students and for our elders.”

Although hunger is not a significant problem for the Virgin Islands, its dependence on imports is. One can see the recognition of the need for self-sufficiency for food security in the several examples above—government legislation, the role of the University of the Virgin Islands and Virgin Islands Good Food and other nonprofits. Intersectoral activities can work effectively to improve farming communities, the supportive infrastructure and food security overall.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Unsplash

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Voices of Change: Radio Empowers Farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa

Radio Empowers FarmersIn 2023, 64.2 million East Africans faced acute food insecurity, compounded by communities with low literacy rates, adverse climate instability and poor internet infrastructure. Many lacked the life-sustaining information to aid in the escape from poverty. For Farm Radio International, bridging this gap lies in communication justice, a guiding principle where every person deserves the unalienable right to speak and be informed.

Dialing up Support

Founded in 1975 by George Atkins, Farm Radio International is a Canadian nongovernmental organization (NGO). It works with existing radio stations to improve access to information in sub-Saharan Africa. The organization aims to connect small-scale farmers with life-changing knowledge and opportunities for a stronger voice in their development.

As of 2025, Farm Radio International supports communities across sub-Saharan Africa, a region where approximately 600 million people still lack access to electricity. The charity’s work demonstrates that reducing information loss in rural areas empowers Africans to make informed decisions. This could include knowing when to plant crops, adapting to climate emergencies or addressing health challenges. In sub-Saharan Africa, where 65% of the population relies on radio for news, broadcasters often serve as trusted and vital sources of information.

Following this dynamic, Farm Radio International implemented a network of nearly 1,400 stations across sub-Saharan Africa, all backed by informational resources, content and training. By the end of 2024, the initiative worked with 135 stations across 34 projects, addressing themes like food security, climate flux and gender equality.

Radio Empowers Farmers

Farm Radio International estimates that up to 60% of radio users tune into its programs, with an average of 20% incorporating one recommended practice. While statistically impressive, Farm Radio International prioritizes the impact on individual farmers’ lives. One example in northern Tanzania exhibited how a radio program on agroecology boosted farmers’ average knowledge score about ecologically sustainable agriculture by 62%.

In sub-Saharan Africa, researchers demonstrated how growth from agriculture is 11 times more effective at reducing extreme poverty than any other sector. Therefore, East Africans can expect better nutrition by improving farm systems through increased productivity, higher incomes and broader economic growth. They could also experience increased access to education and a ripple effect of economic activity throughout their communities.

Reflecting on Communication Justice

The vital role of radio as a source of information and support for small-scale farmers in sub-Saharan Africa cannot be overstated. With the longstanding partnership of Farm Radio International and local broadcasters, millions of farmers gain access to life-changing knowledge that empowers them to make informed decisions in the face of challenges like food insecurity.

Through interactive programs and community involvement, these initiatives not only improve agricultural practices but also enhance economic resilience and social equity. As technology continues to evolve, ensuring that radio retains its significance in agricultural communication will be essential for fostering development and empowering marginalized communities across the region.

– Marcus Villagomez

Marcus is based in Galveston, TX, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Malnutrition in Guatemala

Malnutrition in GuatemalaWith nearly half of the population unable to afford basic foods, malnutrition in Guatemala remains a critical barrier to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger. This global target aims to eliminate all forms of malnutrition by 2030, yet progress in the country has been slow. However, support from local organizations and international aid efforts offers a path forward.

The Current Situation of Hunger in Guatemala

Since 1960, Guatemala has struggled with high levels of food insecurity. At that time, 60% of children under 5 suffered from stunting. By 2023, that figure dropped to 46.5%, an improvement of just 0.21 percentage points per year over six decades. This slow progress reflects deep-rooted challenges. Malnutrition severely limits brain development in children, reducing educational outcomes and increasing vulnerability to illness. According to Seeds for a Future, malnourished parents often pass on these disadvantages to their children, reinforcing the cycle of poverty across generations.

More than 2.9 million Guatemalans face crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity. Migrant flows also strain resources, with 223,000 people passing through the country between January and September 2024. Many of these individuals require food assistance, emergency nutrition and protection during their transit. Without swift humanitarian support, vulnerable populations face rising health risks. Aid groups urge donors to fund safe transit points and deliver nutritional support to prevent widespread health consequences.

Understanding the Root Causes

Systemic poverty continues to drive hunger in Guatemala. Environmental shocks, especially in the Dry Corridor, worsen the crisis. Many families rely on agriculture to survive, but droughts and erratic weather often destroy crops and slash incomes. As food prices rise and yields drop, households face greater difficulty feeding their children. In October 2024 alone, the Food Security and Nutrition Secretariat recorded 25,000 cases of acute malnutrition among children under 5.

Short-term food distributions can save lives but rarely lead to lasting change. Many programs unintentionally create dependency by failing to build skills or resilience. Long-term strategies that focus on education, sustainable farming and economic empowerment provide communities with the tools to escape malnutrition permanently.

Organizations Supporting Guatemala

  • Seeds for a Future. Seeds for a Future is an organization that supplies rural families and communities with the training and essential resources to grow sustainable crops and understand nutritional health requirements for mothers and infants. Since 2009, the Seeds program has been addressing the issue of malnutrition in Guatemala with a 12-month program, mentoring families for their individual needs at a low cost. Currently, the organization has helped 5,400 families in 19 communities with its easily replicable food security and health training program. The program continues to implement its training strategies and hopes to expand to even more communities. 
  • World Food Programme (WFP).  The WFP has operated in Guatemala since 1974. Working closely with government ministries and United Nations (U.N.) agencies, the program assists with food security and nutrition for the country’s most vulnerable individuals and families. To achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 2), the WFP is strengthening social programs to minimize food insecurity and malnutrition in Guatemala. Workshops and nutrition-sensitive interventions were put in place to detect and better the conditions of malnutrition, especially for children and pregnant women. Considering the struggles that families go through after climate shocks, the program also works to enhance resilience and provide access to affordable markets.

Looking Ahead

In 2025, humanitarian agencies plan to scale up operations in 60 of Guatemala’s 81 most food-insecure municipalities, including Alta Verapaz and Huehuetenango. These regions experience the highest rates of crop failure and child malnutrition and are in desperate need of food security interventions. Despite the high number of malnutrition cases in Guatemala, efforts are being implemented to improve the community’s resilience and health stability. The most vulnerable are receiving the necessary resources and support with the hopes of eliminating all forms of food insecurity by 2030. 

– Sarina Francis

Sarina is based in Tallahassee, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr