Archive for category: Food Insecurity

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USAID in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

USAID in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a country rich in natural resources yet long-suffered by instability and authoritarian rule, has received humanitarian assistance from multiple international organizations and single-nation funding sources. Here is some information about the work of USAID in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

USAID in the DRC

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has supported the DRC since 1990 through various programs designed to improve food security, health and sanitation and access to clean water, and respond to conflicts and emergencies. As the largest bilateral donor to the DRC, USAID stands to make the biggest impact in meeting the needs of Congolese citizens and delivering essential services.

Poverty in the DRC

The DRC is the fourth-largest country in Africa with a population of 109 million. Due to civil conflict and the displacement of large portions of the population, the DRC remains one of the five poorest countries in the world, and the World Bank estimates that 73.5% of Congolese people live on less than $2.15 a day.

The DRC particularly struggles with disease prevention, including but not limited to Ebola, malaria, HIV and measles. This is largely a result of inadequate funding for vaccines, bed nets and other preventative measures. Ongoing civil conflicts and governmental fractures make this particularly difficult for the government of the DRC to address, which is why USAID in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is essential to safeguard the public health and safety of millions of Congolese citizens. 

How USAID Is Helping the DRC

USAID in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has increased its level of funding in U.S. dollars every year since 2001. Programs have focused on two particular sectors— emergency response and basic health. In 2023, USAID disbursed $935.77 million of development aid to the DRC, making it the fourth-largest recipient of USAID assistance. Below are the largest programs under USAID in the Democratic Republic of the Congo which assist in development and emergency response in the DRC. 

The Title II Emergency Program

The largest USAID activity in the DRC is the Title II Emergency Program, which provides U.S.-grown food to those suffering from food insecurity in foreign countries. In 2023, USAID allocated $120.8 million to the DRC, providing critical food assistance to those most vulnerable to starvation.

With the World Food Program (WFP), USAID was able to reach approximately 4.4 million people to help them meet basic food needs in 2023.

The Integrated Health Program

The Integrated Health Program (IHP) works to improve the quality and availability of health services in the DRC, through providing technology and training. USAID partnered with other health organizations to provide $38.53 million to the DRC in 2023, supporting areas including child health, immunizations, nutrition and sanitation. USAID was able to reach 26.7 million children for nutrition programming and assistance from October 2021 to September 2022, alongside other vaccination, family planning and newborn assistance. 

USAID’s End Malaria Project

The End Malaria Project works to provide mass distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets to prevent the spread of malaria. In 2023, USAID provided $15.88 million to support the DRC’s National Malaria Control Program, helping to provide bed nets to more than 28 million people. 

As the leading cause of death in the DRC, malaria stands as one of the biggest challenges for the U.S. and DRC governments to address. Through the providing of bed nets and vaccines, USAID, through the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), can reach more than 45 million people to prevent or treat malaria each year.

Additionally, USAID donated 50,000 doses of an mpox— a cousin to smallpox— vaccine to the DRC in September 2024 in collaboration with the CDC. USAID has already committed more than $10 million for research and prevention. 

Looking Ahead

USAID in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has provided life-saving humanitarian assistance, particularly to marginalized groups and those living in conflict zones. By investing in the health and security of Congolese people, the U.S. may assist the DRC in achieving stability and prosperity within the near future. 

– Sadie Claps

Sadie is based in Seattle, WA, USA and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Everything to Know About Poverty in Sierra Leone 

Poverty in Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone is a small, deeply impoverished country on the southwest coast of Africa. According to most recent data, almost 60% of the country lives below the national poverty line, while 43% of Sierra Leone’s nearly nine million residents live in extreme poverty, which is defined as less than $1.90 a day. The country is one of the poorest in the world, ranking 184th out of 193 countries according to the Human Development Index, which measures countries based on their life expectancy, education level and standard of living. Here is everything you need to know about poverty in Sierra Leone. 

The COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war have negatively impacted Sierra Leone’s poverty reduction efforts. Almost 60% of families have reported a decline in their income. At the same time, widespread inflation has reduced people’s purchasing power and increased poverty. These crises have also worsened food security in the already incredibly food insecure country. Surging prices of staple foods have led to an increase in malnutrition and food insecurity among the population. 

Food Insecurity and Access to Clean Water

Food Insecurity is a widespread problem in Sierra Leone. The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that 82% of the population is food insecure and that 26% of children are stunted, experiencing impaired growth due to malnutrition. Despite agriculture being an essential part of the country’s economy, it is underdeveloped forcing it to be dependent on food imports. The country is prone to food crises and malnutrition, a problem likely to increase due to the effects of changing weather patterns.

Progress in Reducing Poverty in Sierra Leone 

Since an 11-year civil war ending in 2002, Sierra Leone has seen continued economic growth. The country has seen its GDP more than triple and experienced a reduction in extreme poverty from 55% in 2011 to 43% today. The main driver in this recent poverty reduction has been growth in urban areas, where poverty is far less prevalent. In rural areas, 60% of the population lives in poverty, as compared to only 20% of the urban population. Today, an estimated 44% of people in Sierra Leone live in urban areas.

A number of nonprofits, governmental and international organizations provide vital assistance to Sierra Leone. One of these organizations is The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). UNICEF works with the government of Sierra Leone to strengthen social programs and provide services children rely on. They improve access to quality health services, support training for health workers, provide essential vaccination services and provide nutrition support to children. In 2023 alone, UNICEF provided more than one million children with Vitamin A tablets, which play a vital role in improving children’s health and well-being.  

Looking Ahead

Sierra Leone has had a troubled past, marked by a decade long civil war that ended in 2002 as well as by widespread poverty and food insecurity that persist today. However, in the past two decades, the country has seen improvements in various health indicators and has reduced poverty. While much more work is necessary, Sierra Leone has the opportunity to overcome many of its current challenges. With continued investment towards addressing poverty from both the international community and the national government, Sierra Leone has the ability to work towards a brighter future.

– Matthew Wornom

Matthew is based in Yorktown, VA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How the WFP Is Supporting Food Systems in Ukraine

eFood Systems in UkraineEntering 2025, one of the largest questions facing the West is how much more aid is going to be sent to Ukraine, as while the U.K. and other European states have remained steadfast in their support for Kiev, America’s change in administration has presented fresh uncertainty regarding Ukraine’s future support. For nearly three years now, Ukraine has relied on Western aid as a lifeblood in its defense against Russia’s invasion. However, President-elect Trump has made no hard promises to continue this policy. Ukraine is at risk of losing its largest financial and military donor at a crucial stage in this conflict.

For Ukrainians directly impacted by this war, the situation looks increasingly bleak as almost 4 million internally displaced refugees are still in need of humanitarian assistance since this conflict destroyed their homes and livelihoods. However, thanks to the World Food Programme (WFP), a sustainable method of delivering aid has helped streamline deliverance of humanitarian aid. This streamlining has helped maintain food systems in Ukraine and protect the increasing amount of refugees from food insecurity.

Ukraine: An Agricultural Superpower

Often referred to as “the Breadbasket of Europe,” Ukraine has a rich history as an agricultural superpower. Its fertile soil and flat ground create some of the best land on earth for farming, and have allowed Ukraine to become one of the largest exporters of grain in the world, making Ukrainian culture synonymous with the agricultural industry. But when Russia invaded in 2022, there were interruptions in exports of grain. The country’s major outlets in the Black Sea were either captured by the Russian army or blockaded by its navy. The actions significantly disrupted the food systems in Ukraine.

According to the Centre For Strategic & International Studies, 90% of Ukraine’s 60 million metric tons in food exports came from Black sea ports before the war, hence why the Russians were so quick to extinguish this economic asset. This not only had a catastrophic effect on global food prices, which rose by 13% at the war’s outset, but threatens the livelihood of thousands of farmers who have depended on Ukraine’s exports of grain for generations.

While there was some hope in 2023 when Russia, Ukraine and Turkey agreed on a shipping corridor under the Black Sea Grain Initiative, allowing exports to return close to their pre-war numbers, this agreement has since been violated by the Russian Navy, as the Kremlin continues to squeeze Ukraine’s ability to economically fund its defense. So, while Ukraine has sought to export its produce through other means, such as through overland borders via solidarity trade routes that the EU has drawn out, Ukrainian rural communities have perhaps had the largest indirect impact since the start of the war. 

WFP’s Work to Address Food Systems in Ukraine

Traditionally, the humanitarian aid that the WFP has given out has come from a range of sources, such as the international market and regional assets. But since the start of the war, the WFP has adjusted its tactics so that 82% of the resources going to Ukraine are sourced locally. Not only has this ensured that the millions of internally displaced refugees are not food insecure, but it has meant that rural communities get an injection of $1.3 billion into the economy. Additionally, these communities are able to survive the economic hardships attached to a Russian trade embargo. This ensures the future of the Ukrainian rural economy not only survives but can also recover quickly after the conflict ends.

By sourcing products locally, it reduces the need to transport large amounts of aid from other major exporting nations such as the U.S. or China. Not only does this cut down on costs that can be reinvested into further aid, but it also cuts down on the country’s carbon footprint, as trucks and trains can be used instead of large cargo planes that emit thousands of metric tons of carbon over multiple flights. The food undergoes distribution through the Ukrainian Government, either through the Ministry of Education and providing free school meals that help protect Ukraine’s future generations, or by helping coordinate emergency telecommunication services for quick action response.

Other Initiatives

The WFP is further helping rural communities by removing mines in the Kharkiv region, an area that the conflict has disproportionately affected. By engaging with rural communities, the WFP has been able to both clear mines, and teach proper mine clearance techniques that can be distributed to the rural community, ensuring the risk to food systems in Ukraine is reduced and Ukrainian farmers have protection from collateral damage. As well as sourcing locally, the WFP can create a sustainable economy, as well as a more sustainable environment.

Replicating WFP’s Work in Other Countries

This model of sourcing aid locally is not always easy to replicate in other areas of food deprivation. Ukraine is a uniquely fertile country. As a net exporter, the country is less reliant on foreign imports for food security than other nations with lower agricultural output. A country such as Sudan, which is currently in the midst of a full scale civil war, has had a history of food insecurity before the conflict began, so it’s unrealistic that more than 80% of aid can be sourced from local producers.

Equally, the WFP has limited access to certain areas in need of humanitarian aid, so purchasing locally becomes near impossible. Afghanistan, for example, has an estimated 14.8 million people living without food security, yet the WFP is powerless to help due to the isolationist policies the Taliban government is currently undergoing. However, the WFP has proven that streamlining the deliverance of aid with local produce can create sustainable benefits that can establish long term growth for local food systems. 

Looking Ahead

With local producers sourcing just above 40% of global aid, there is definitely room for improvement as the multiple benefits speak for itself. The same model currently being used in Ukraine can be replicated in other states struggling with significant numbers of refugees. Economic investment and food security are crucial to ensuring a nation can recover sustainably after a conflict. In an interview, one Ukrainian farmer said that “food security means national security,“ the WFP understands this, and by continuing to locally source its humanitarian aid, growth in the economy and national security can be accelerated and sustainably achieved in other nations facing conflict and abject poverty.

– Caspian Davies

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

Photo: Flickr

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Fighting Food Insecurity Among Indigenous Canadians

Food Insecurity Among Indigenous CanadiansIn 2023, 36.8% of Indigenous people in Canada lived in food-insecure households. Food insecurity among Indigenous communities in Canada has been prevalent since the earliest attempts at colonial eradication of these people through forced migration, residential schools and colonial hunting practices. Loss of traditional knowledge and land has made Indigenous Canadians more susceptible to food insecurity due to factors like high food prices, accessibility to groceries and other economic disparities. 

The organizations listed below combat food insecurity among Indigenous communities in Canada by reconnecting communities with traditional knowledge and sustainable practices. They focus on education, empowerment and skill-building, offering programs that improve food access, teach cooking and promote cultural practices. These efforts help communities build lasting solutions to food insecurity and enhance self-sufficiency.

Ojibiikaan Indigenous Cultural Network

Ojibiikaan Indigenous Cultural Network, located in Toronto, Ontario, is an Indigenous-led organization that strives to deepen the connection between people and the land. The organization focuses on three key pillars: the education of food and nutrition, implementing sustainable food systems and revitalizing traditional ecological knowledge.

Its programs include a variety of activities such as medicine walks, which is a form of meditation and an Indigenous rite of passage; snowshoeing, which is both a mode of transportation and a sport; sugarbush tapping, which is the collection of maple sap and the boiling of it to make maple syrup; gardening and traditional cooking. Through these programs, Ojibiikaan fosters a more profound respect for the environment while promoting both individual and community well-being.

Qajuqturvik Community Food Center

Qajuqturvik Community Food Center, located in Nunavut, Canada, works to address the significant challenges of food insecurity and high food costs in the region. With food prices more than twice the national average and limited availability of local country food, more than half of the households in Nunavut face food insecurity. Indeed, only a tiny fraction of daily calories come from traditional, locally sourced food. 

In response, Qajuqturvik focuses on three key pillars: improving access to nutritious food, developing essential cooking skills and empowering community members to become active voices in advocating for change. The organization’s programs address immediate needs while fostering long-term community growth and self-sufficiency. These include a daily community meal, a food service training program, children’s cooking classes, a community cooking club and a food box distribution initiative. 

Working Group on Indigenous Food Sovereignty

Indigenous Canadians established the Working Group on Indigenous Food Sovereignty to bring awareness of food insecurity among Indigenous communities in Canada. Furthermore, the group aims to ensure Indigenous voices are part of discussions surrounding food networks in the province of British Columbia and its major surrounding areas. Members of this organization come from diverse backgrounds, including traditional harvesters, farmers and gardeners, Indigenous community members, academics and researchers, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and political advocates. 

The organization’s Indigenous Food Systems Network Website connects individuals and organizations involved in Indigenous food-related action, research and policy reform. The Indigenous Food Systems Network is a hub of information about the land, economics, health, ecology, generational care, community and responsibility. 

– Nina Bujewski

Nina is based in San Luis Obispo, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Food Systems in Italy: Poverty, Insecurity and Hope

Food Systems in ItalyCurrently, the food system in Italy is failing many of its citizens. This will come as a surprise to many due to the nation being almost synonymous with good food and a lifestyle that is centered around it. Due to many factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent aggressive position of Russia’s shocking supply chains, the weakness of food systems in Italy has been exposed, as those at risk of food poverty or food insecurity stand at 22.3% of the population. It is an alarming statistic for a world leader in many metrics. 

The Fuzzy Approach

Various factors, including food insecurity, contribute to the lack of prosperity and poverty worldwide. Addressing poverty is inexplicably complex due to this multitude of factors. While focusing on a specific aspect, such as food poverty, might suggest a more straightforward solution, this view overlooks the broader, interconnected challenges and could be misguided. In addressing this complexity, the fuzzy approach attempts to more accurately analyze food systems and capture the existence of food poverty through an expenditure side metric.

Advocates of this innovative approach suggest that it offers more excellent results and insights than traditional binary set theory. The study utilizes data from an Italian Household Budget Survey of 2021, highlighting how current initiatives could be improved in creating stronger food systems in Italy to combat food poverty and insecurity. 

Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty

In November 2024, Italy voluntarily joined the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. The Alliance hopes to eradicate hunger and poverty by supporting and reinforcing national political efforts to provide secure food to citizens, ameliorating global food systems. The Alliance has two “High-level Objectives,” seeking to sustain political drive by spurring collective agency between existing and emerging organizations and initiatives. It also wishes to improve mobilization and coherence between domestic and international efforts. 

By committing to the Alliance, Italy has taken a crucial step to addressing food insecurity within its borders. Formally, Italy recognizes and acknowledges the growing prevalence of people facing food insecurity because of continuous structural poverty and inequality. In doing so, Italy also commits to the Alliance’s processes to address this issue, such as large-scale unified approaches transcending international, regional, national and local geographies. 

Regarding domestic policy, Italy will, to the best of its abilities, “implement, improve and/or scale up” a range of policy initiatives, programs and instruments from the Alliance’s policy basket. 

Domestic Policies

The following policies were already in place before Italy joined the Alliance. However, they will now be upgraded for a more significant impact. One newly initiated program is the Social Card, Dedicata a te (“Dedicated to You“). Initially implemented on July 18, 2023, the program was further strengthened in September 2024, reflecting Italy’s continued commitment to alleviating poverty within the country.

The budget for the program has risen, which, according to Fisco e Tasse, will result in an increase of families receiving the social card, from 1.2 million in 2023 to 1.33 million this year. The increased budget will also mean an increase in the median value of the card from $478.69 to $521.45 per month (+8.9%). 

In 2023, 96% of the social card’s funds were spent on food products, with the remaining 4% on public transport. While the card is available for use other than alleviating food insecurity, the Italian public prioritizes its use for food. Globally, many are facing food insecurity, even in a “food-centric” country like Italy; it is inspiring to see policy initiatives such as the “Dedicated to You” even greater; it is not alone. 

Coffee Fund

Another key tenant to the Alliance’s process is the value of policy cooperation and support. This is most clearly highlighted through the Apulia Food Systems Initiative (AFSI) 2024, launched in June by leaders of the G7. The key deliverable in this instance is the communication and support between member countries to enhance each member’s ability to alleviate food poverty. 

Italy, through the AFSI, has announced a private-public fund for coffee. The Global Private-Public Coffee Fund seeks to support initiatives that strengthen coffee’s supply chain and minimize the industry’s shocks due to climate instability. To do so, the fund wishes to coordinate between existing efforts, thus sharing knowledge and resources and investing in research, technology development and infrastructure. 

It further seeks to protect smaller businesses that make up the majority of the producing industry through “equitable value distribution” throughout the entire chain of supply.

Hope for the Future

While it may seem troubling that a rich, developed and food-centric country such as Italy is struggling to alleviate food poverty, significant progress is being made through various initiatives and programs. The Fuzzy analysis provides an in-depth understanding of food insecurity at a national and sub-national level. A greater understanding of the patterns of food poverty will aid initiatives seeking to improve food systems in Italy and abroad, such as the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. 

The increased communication, awareness and mobilization that resulted from AFSI and its umbrella organizations and initiatives highlight the positives of the human spirit and our willingness to provide all with just and fair access to food. 

– Laughlin Moeller

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

Photo: Pexels

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Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty

Global Alliance Against Hunger and PovertyIn 2023, about 750 million people faced hunger globally and emergency levels of food insecurity reached a five-year high due to climate change, conflict and economic pressures. In 2024, the United Kingdom (U.K.) joined Brazil’s Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, announcing new investments in global food security.

At the annual G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024, representatives from 19 countries gathered to address global challenges. While the summit originally focused on macroeconomic issues affecting their respective nations, its agenda has expanded to include sustainable development, health, trade, climate change and anti-corruption efforts.

Key Goals and Objectives of the Alliance

Brazil’s G20 presidency proposed the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, with its finalization and launch following the 2024 summit. The Alliance’s founding documents acknowledge previous efforts to address hunger and poverty but emphasize the multidimensional impact poverty has on children and adults, creating a cycle that requires effective intervention, with a focus on country-level policy action and knowledge sharing.

The Alliance identifies eradicating all forms of poverty as “the greatest global challenge” and reminds governments that social protection is a universal right and a key component of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Its primary goals include increasing funding for household and government initiatives, raising awareness of poverty’s effects and solutions and integrating sustainable agricultural development into the fight against hunger and poverty. The push for countries to address these ongoing issues stems from slowing progress toward the 2030 targets.

The Alliance projects that 622 million people will still live in extreme poverty by 2030—nearly double the targeted number. To tackle this, it plans to match countries’ needs with donors and technical support, helping fund and implement solutions to hunger and poverty.

The UK’s role in the Alliance

The 2024 G20 Summit marked Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s first appearance, where he expressed admiration for Brazil, stating, “Your culture and your commitment to working people, more than just their right to be free from exploitation, but their right to be lifted, to enjoy greater opportunities and to enjoy life.” Aligning with the Alliance’s goals, the U.K. joined as a founding member and now serves on its Board of Champions to fight hunger and poverty.

The U.K. has announced a £70 million support package to tackle food insecurity and climate challenges. This includes up to £50 million for the new Resilience and Adaptation Fund, which will help food-insecure countries like Bangladesh, Ethiopia and Chad develop sustainable agriculture to strengthen food resources amid changing or extreme weather. An additional £25.5 million will support Commercial Agriculture for Smallholders and Agribusinesses, focusing on protecting rural communities and agriculture-dependent populations from the effects of climate change.

At the summit, Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the U.K.’s commitment to “delivering practical support for communities to keep food on the table.” Indeed, these funds align with that promise as the U.K. and the Alliance advance proposals and projects to reduce global hunger and poverty.

Looking Ahead

The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty seeks to drive meaningful progress in eradicating food insecurity and extreme poverty worldwide. Furthermore, by uniting nations, mobilizing funding and prioritizing sustainable agricultural solutions, the Alliance aims to support communities most affected by economic and climate pressures. With renewed commitments and collaborative efforts, the initiative offers a path toward building resilience and improving livelihoods for millions globally.

– Caitlin Mulholland

Caitlin is based in Lymington, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Poverty Among the Dominica Kalinago

Addressing Poverty Among the Dominican KalinagoThe Kalinago, indigenous peoples of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean, live in an area characterized by a long arc of small islands. About 49.8% of the Kalinago population lives in poverty, compared to Dominica’s national poverty rate of 28.8%. Historically referred to as Caribs—a term introduced by Christopher Columbus—they consider this label derogatory and prefer the designation Kalinago. Dominica hosts the largest population of Kalinago, approximately 3,000, primarily because it was the last Caribbean island to be colonized by Europeans due to its defendable terrain. Once colonized, the Kalinago were forced inland to less desirable territory. In 1903, the Kalinago Territory was established on the east coast of Dominica, covering 3,700 acres. Poverty in the Dominican Kalinago is exacerbated by a lack of infrastructure, land encroachment and environmental devastation within this territory.

Lack of Infrastructure

The Kalinago Territory, isolated from much of Dominica, offers limited economic opportunities. Local employment mainly revolves around farming, fishing and artisanal crafts due to a lack of industrial development. Unclear territorial boundaries lead to frequent land encroachment by non-Indigenous farmers. This compounds the challenges faced by the growing Kalinago population and further reduces their accessible land. The devastation of Hurricane Maria in 2017 exacerbated poverty, destroying about 90% of homes in the Kalinago Territory. With ancestral ties to the region now known as modern-day Venezuela, the Venezuelan government has committed $4.5 million to fund housing and educational infrastructure projects in the Kalinago Territory.

Food Insecurity and Conservation Efforts

More than 40% of Dominica’s population faces the risk of food insecurity, with the indigenous peoples particularly vulnerable. Following Hurricane Maria, severe food insecurity affected about 24,000 people. Dominica’s food production is highly susceptible to climate change and natural disasters. In response, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) initiated the Strengthening Sustainable Livelihoods and Resilience in the Kalinago Territory project in 2021. This project targets poverty among the Dominican Kalinago. It enhances food security through sustainable agriculture practices, focusing on the cultivation of cassava, a crop of significant cultural importance to the Kalinago.

The project equips farmers with the necessary tools, materials and technical know-how to set up a Climate Smart Agricultural Research Station. This station will enable farmers to boost productivity and develop cassava-based products for both local and international markets. It also offers small grants to promote sustainable farming practices. A major component of the project is environmental conservation, addressing the longstanding issue of deforestation in the Kalinago Territory. The initiative includes a reforestation strategy designed to restore land and improve water catchment areas. These ongoing efforts in sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation and climate resilience aim to establish a foundation for the long-term sustainability and self-reliance of the Kalinago.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to support the Kalinago community focus on addressing poverty, food insecurity and environmental degradation through sustainable initiatives. Projects like the Strengthening Sustainable Livelihoods and Resilience in the Kalinago Territory aim to improve agricultural productivity. Additionally, they promote reforestation to restore natural resources. By equipping farmers with tools and training, these initiatives enable the development of cassava-based products, fostering both local and international economic opportunities. The combined focus on environmental conservation and climate resilience highlights a commitment to empowering the Kalinago people while preserving their cultural and natural heritage.

– Nina Bujewski

Nina is based in San Luis Obispo, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything You Need to Know About Hunger in Kashmir

Hunger in KashmirKashmir, a region between India and Pakistan, is known for its breathtaking landscapes. However, beneath this beauty lies a harsh reality: widespread hunger. Here is a deeper look into how hunger has become one of the most pressing issues in Kashmir.

Political Conflict

For decades, Kashmir has been a victim of political instability. Ongoing conflicts have left deep scars on Kashmir’s infrastructure and economy. Constant enforcement of strikes, curfews and road blockages have prevented the free movement of food supplies, cutting off access to essential resources. This pressing issue disproportionately impacts rural communities and intensifies existing challenges.

The disruption of transportation networks leads to inevitable food shortages, triggering a chain reaction affecting daily life and the locals’ normalcy. Moreover, Kashmir’s economy heavily relies on its agricultural industry to support its financial independence. However, farmers are often unable to sow or harvest under the instability of conflict, leading to further uncertainty in food availability.

Climate Emergencies

In addition to the political turmoil, Kashmir is facing another key issue: the mounting pressure of climate instability. Specifically targeting the agricultural industry, erratic weather patterns have become the norm. Unexpected droughts and unseasonal rains are becoming increasingly common, increasing food prices and reducing yields. Farmers who have previously relied on winter snowmelt for irrigation are now met with the unpredictable nature of modern-day winters that bring either too little snow or none at all, resulting in shortages in crop production and water shortages.

Poverty and Rising Unemployment

In Kashmir, the ongoing conflict has severely paralyzed job opportunities, demonstrating an unemployment crisis, particularly among the youth. As food prices rise and stable job opportunities continue to plummet, families are forced to make difficult decisions about their consumption needs. The crushing reality of poverty means that even if food is available, many decide against purchasing it because they can not afford it. According to the Kashmir Welfare Foundation, approximately 40% of Kashmir’s population lives below the poverty line, with food insecurity contributing heavily to the issue.

The Impact of Harsh Winters

Winters in Kashmir are not just cold, they are crippling. As soon as temperatures start to drop, agricultural activities come to a halt. For families living in remote areas, the winter months bring isolation for long periods, with limited access to food and fresh produce. Hunger peaks in Kashmir during these months and it is often the most vulnerable groups—such as women, children and older people— that are affected the most. Without access to proper storage systems or supply chains, winters in Kashmir become a season of dread.

Solutions and Hope on the Horizon

Various international organizations are working in the region via aid and food security programs to provide immediate relief. The Kashmir Welfare Foundation is one organization that actively works on food security programs, reaching thousands of families with food aid and livelihood support. It also calls for an interest in better technology and government to protect the Kashmiri agricultural industry and those who rely on it.

Another key player is CHINAR Kashmir, a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting the region’s marginalized children, women and families. One of its flagship initiatives is the CHINAR Home Program. The program offers a safe and nurturing environment for orphaned and vulnerable children. It provides them with health care, nutrition, education and emotional support. Additionally, in response to natural disasters, CHINAR Kashmir offers immediate relief by distributing food and other necessities to affected families, addressing acute hunger crises during emergencies.

Through these efforts, CHINAR Kashmir and the Kashmir Welfare Foundation are helping to improve access to basic rights and essential services. They empower the region’s most vulnerable populations and build hope for a better future.

– Mashal Aman

Mashal is based in Kyoto City, Japan and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Hunger in Ethiopia: Everything You Need to Know

Hunger in EthiopiaAccording to the World Food Programme (WFP), a staggering 55% of all children younger than 5 in Ethiopia suffer from hunger, highlighting the severe nutritional crisis facing the nation. In 2024, approximately 15.8 million people in Ethiopia required food support due to a complex interplay of factors such as rampant inflation, ongoing conflicts, severe droughts and the spread of diseases.

Ethiopia is currently grappling with one of the worst droughts in recent history, leading to widespread starvation and devastating consequences for vulnerable populations. The drought has destroyed crops and livestock, further exacerbating food shortages and pushing families into dire circumstances.

Many Ethiopians are also suffering from various diseases, with children particularly affected by hydrocephalus, a serious condition characterized by swelling of the brain due to the accumulation of spinal fluid. This condition can often be linked to malnutrition during pregnancy, underscoring the intergenerational impacts of food insecurity.

The Impacts of Conflict and Drought in Ethiopia

Conflict, drought and decreasing food support are endangering the lives of millions of Ethiopians and driving inflation to unprecedented levels in the region. While inflation in the U.S. and conflicts elsewhere contribute to the crisis, the situation is complex, with smaller issues, such as the availability of fuel for supply trucks delivering food and medicine, playing a critical role.

The disruption of supply chains due to fuel shortages has led to delays in delivering vital humanitarian assistance to affected communities. These delays have further strained the already limited resources available to those in need. Moreover, ongoing conflicts in various regions of the country have hindered access to agricultural land, preventing farmers from cultivating crops and worsening food scarcity.

Humanitarian needs in Ethiopia have tripled since 2015 and the country is experiencing its worst drought in decades, often described as the worst in a generation. This drought affects 8.1 million people, including approximately 2.5 million children, leading to water scarcity, food insecurity and severe disruptions in livelihoods. The consequences include rising food prices, increased malnutrition rates among children and the displacement of millions.

In southern and southeastern Ethiopia, an estimated 7.4 million people wake up hungry each day as the country grapples with its fourth consecutive failed rainy season. Drought, compounded by regional conflict, remains a significant challenge. These alarming statistics and health issues reflect the urgent need for comprehensive interventions to address not only immediate food needs but also the underlying causes of hunger and health disparities in Ethiopia.

What Is Being Done

Several organizations, including the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), are actively supporting Ethiopia through humanitarian assistance. In 2022, USAID announced $488 million to address various critical needs, including:

  • Emergency food assistance
  • Life-saving nutrition to treat malnourished children
  • Support for farmers to prevent livestock and crop loss
  • Aid for vulnerable populations
  • Assistance for farmers and agribusiness to build resilience
  • Provision of safe drinking water and emergency health care to mitigate disease exacerbated by hunger
  • Protection for women and children to prevent gender-based violence.

Summary

Ethiopia is facing a critical crisis as conflict, drought and hunger threaten millions of lives. However, several nonprofit organizations, such as USAID, are actively assisting the country in addressing these issues through humanitarian aid. With sustained support from both local and international organizations, Ethiopia has the potential to overcome these challenges and work toward a more stable future.

– Anthony Burt

Anthony is based in Kansas, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything You Need to Know About Poverty in Libya

Poverty in LibyaLibya is a country in North Africa and has one of the largest oil reserves in Africa which is a primary influence in the country’s economic and political state. It was under dictatorship for 42 years and now faces the consequences of the 2011 civil war and NATO intervention. Libya’s economic state and political warfare continue to create instability for the population. Poverty in Libya is a growing issue driven by constant struggle. The country’s fragile economy and growing inflation have limited access to jobs and essential services like health care and education. The ongoing armed conflict in Libya is disrupting people’s livelihoods and fuels regional disputes, causing poverty amongst displaced populations affected by the current situation in Libya. 

Current State of Poverty in Libya

After the 2011 revolution and the death of Muammar Al-Gaddafi, the country faced a prolonged civil war, which weakened the state politically and economically. Now Libya faces power struggles, ongoing food insecurity and deteriorating infrastructure. Libya is home to an estimated 8.2 million people and more than 300,000 of the population is currently displaced, with more in need of humanitarian assistance.

Before the 2011 Civil War, Libyan families’ costs for food were offset by the welfare state that provided free education, housing, public services and health care. Since then, poverty in Libya increased with around 325,000 people in need of assistance, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). The impact of COVID-19 further toppled Libya’s economic state and led to its decline in 2020 revealing the severity of the pandemic. Countless people lost their jobs and livelihoods due to the economic downfall of Libya during the outbreak leading to many facing prolonged food insecurity and need for assistance.

Libya’s Economic and Political Situation

The conflict in Libya is the focal cause of Libya’s economic decline. The 2016 internal armed conflict, which lasted until 2018 had severe consequences, including civilian casualties and human rights violations. Security-related outbreaks have led to 2,240 fatalities in 12 months between 2019 and 2020; General Haftar’s Libyan National Army could be responsible for 80% of civilian casualties. Libya’s political struggles between East and West increase the risk of harm and reduce the efforts for stability. 

Libya is also struggling with a liquidity problem. Libya relies on oil production and international oil prices to fuel income. However, the instability in Libya has led to “inconsistent government revenues,” according to a 2020 report. This pressure has created liquidity problems for the country, severely impacting people’s ability to withdraw public wages and savings from banks. 

Moreover, Libya operates under a dual exchange rate system which causes distortions in currency value and rapid inflation and devaluation. The constant disruptions in the supply chain force Libyans to rely on black-market currency exchange for access to money, according to a 2020 report. This liquidity problem leads to higher living costs due to the limited access to cash, creating food instability for people in Libya.

Education and Health Care

Amongst the Libyan population, the new generations are the most vulnerable and affected by the ongoing unrest and economic instability. Although Libya has seen economic growth in 2023, health care and nutrition are still slowly progressing. According to UNICEF, Libya has seen a decline in child and infant mortality rates as well as a decrease in the population living below the poverty line to 7.1% in 2022. However, primary healthcare and nutrition services plummeted. Education enrolment rates increased to 92%, but many youths, including migrants and refugee children, lack learning opportunities. 

Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health and Education in Libya revealed the complex situation of the overproduction of health care workers and the shortage of nurses, doctors and specialists. Medical education standards in Libya are rated below average, with low certification standards. This issue limits people from access to quality healthcare, especially for those in poor, rural or disrupted regions.

Solutions and Efforts to Poverty in Libya

The WFP built partnerships with the government of Libya, local NGOs and international organizations to fight poverty and food insecurity in contribution to the U.N. Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. It has developed a 2023-2025 strategic plan that addresses the need for emergency food assistance and support for the most vulnerable communities in Libya.  

WHO and the Red Crescent are working to strengthen and repair the Libyan health care system by providing medical supplies and raining health care workers. This initiative mainly focused on Derna and other regions in Eastern Libya affected by the floods in 2023 that left many displaced and in need of medical and humanitarian assistance. 

In 2023, UNICEF and the Ministry of Health ensured the accessibility of primary health care, nutrition and medical support. After the Floods, efforts focused on nutritional screening for 5,461 children and malnutrition management. UNICEF also succeeded in installing 627 vaccination administration systems across Libya, reducing the risk of rising mortality rates, according to 2023 UNICEF report.

Conclusion

Poverty in Libya is deeply caused and rooted in the country’s ongoing conflict, political instability, inflation and economic decline. Limited access to employment and education combined with fragile political and economic structure continues to impact vulnerable populations significantly. Many NGOs and IGOs are addressing and putting in the effort to combat Poverty in Libya. However, the constant instability has made that difficult. Addressing these challenges requires governmental reforms and a stable economy to create a pathway away from poverty. 

– Gufran Elhrari 

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

Photo: Flickr