Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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3 Organizations Fighting Heart Disease in the Philippines

3 Organizations Fighting Heart Disease in the PhilippinesAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), heart disease accounts for a third of deaths in the Philippines. Known as cardiovascular disease (CVD), it impacts the heart and blood vessels. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many in the Philippines have seen weakened immune systems, heightening their susceptibility to severe heart disease. Medical experts recognize a strong correlation between poverty and health issues in developing countries, where inadequate living conditions and sanitation can lead to health complications.

These countries often face a shortage of medical professionals. Research from the University of the Philippines highlights a significant gap in its health care system, particularly the low ratio of doctors to the population, which delays CVD diagnoses. To address these ongoing challenges, several organizations are stepping up to help, including the Children’s Heart Foundation, Gift of Life International and the Philips Foundation.

3 Organizations Fighting Heart Disease in the Philippines

  1. Children’s Heart Foundation. Founded in 2000 by a group of volunteers, the Children’s Heart Foundation emerged from a successful fundraising campaign for a young patient with cardiovascular disease (CVD) a year earlier. The nonprofit organization dedicates itself to “helping economically deprived children with heart disease access quality medical care.” Its primary location in Makati City partners with the local Philippines Heart Center to provide financial assistance to patients completing their treatments. Additionally, the Children’s Heart Foundation offers social opportunities for patients to connect with others facing similar health challenges, enhancing their support network.
  2. Gift of Life International. Gift of Life International provides life-saving cardiac care to Filipino children suffering from heart disease. As a global organization, it has received significant requests for aid from the Philippines, particularly in Manila. By partnering with local groups, Gift of Life International has positively impacted more than 3,000 children there, investing $805,000 in its care. The organization’s outreach operates on three fronts: securing donations, handling requests for aid—whether from a country or for an individual child—and facilitating volunteer involvement in ongoing efforts.
  3. Philips Foundation. The Philips Foundation has launched an initiative in the Philippines to combat heart disease by detecting early signs of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). The foundation aims to reach half a million people in the Philippines, equipping employees to raise awareness about CVD and diagnose it before it becomes fatal. It uses innovative hand-held ultrasound screeners to accelerate the diagnosis process. Additionally, the foundation plans to train 200 teachers in these diagnostic techniques and general heart disease awareness. If successful, this initiative, known as its ‘pilot’ project, could expand further in the Philippines and globally. The Philippines was selected for this major initiative due to its critical need for enhanced heart disease care.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to combat cardiovascular disease in the Philippines continue to expand, bringing hope to many in need of critical care. By providing treatment, financial assistance and early diagnostic tools, dedicated organizations aim to reduce the incidence of heart disease and strengthen the health care system. As these initiatives progress, they pave the way for greater health equity and set a foundation for improved medical support across the country, especially for those most at risk.

– Nadia Haeryfar

Nadia is based in Ashford, CT, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Excellent World Foundation and Its Approach to Poverty Alleviation

Excellent World FoundationPoverty remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, a country of more than 200 million people, where more than 80% of the population lives in abject poverty despite the nation’s wealth of natural resources. This situation is especially dire in the Niger Delta States, which include Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Edo, Delta, Ondo, Imo and Rivers. The Niger Delta region is vital to Nigeria’s economy, contributing more than 70% of the country’s revenue. However, the communities here face severe poverty and a profound lack of social amenities.

In addition to poverty, the Niger Delta communities grapple with environmental degradation caused by oil spills from the oil and gas industry. This destruction of their surroundings is compounded by other issues, including conflict, insecurity and corruption, which further destabilize the region. The Excellent World Foundation focuses its efforts in these states, aiming to address the region’s challenges.

Efforts

As a grassroots-based organization, the Excellent World Foundation employs a variety of approaches and methodologies to implement its initiatives and engage critical stakeholders effectively. These methods emphasize direct engagement and allow for real-time feedback that supports continuous planning and evaluation. The key approaches include:

  1. Advocacy: Using an aggressive advocacy strategy, the organization reaches out to stakeholders and facilitates the implementation of its activities.
  2. Focus Group Discussions: This tool allows the foundation to engage stakeholders meaningfully, fostering an environment for open dialogue and active participation.
  3. Town Hall Meetings: Through these gatherings, it connects directly with its beneficiaries, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.
  4. Interactive Sessions: These sessions provide further opportunities for personal engagement and immediate feedback.

Impact and Outcomes

In partnership with the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) through the Community Development Board (CDB) of Oil and Mineral Lease (OML) 26 in Delta State, Nigeria, the Excellent World Foundation has previously implemented programs that have empowered more than 20,000 youths. These initiatives provided skill training and starter packs in areas such as welding and fabrication, fashion and design, solar installation, sewing and cake baking, among other trades, directly benefiting youths within the OML 26 communities.

Furthermore, in partnership with PRO-DATA, it has established more than 200 peace clubs, an early warning system, HIV/AIDs clubs and environmental watch in public schools in Nigeria. With funding support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Excellent World Foundation has established more than 200 Emergency Water Sanitation and Hygiene Group (EWASH) committees, providing essential training in more than 200 communities. Currently, the foundation is implementing “Skools” and digital skills training programs, aiming to reach more than 10,000 beneficiaries across Nigeria, with a focus on student participants.

Conclusion

The Excellent World Foundation has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to addressing poverty and promoting sustainable development in Nigeria, particularly within the Niger Delta and other underserved communities. Supported by partnerships with organizations like USAID and the NPDC, the foundation’s initiatives have positively impacted tens of thousands, equipping them with essential skills and resources to create lasting change.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

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Health Care Crisis in Sudan

Health care crisis in SudanSudan faces its second year of civil war due to a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Before the conflict, Sudan was already facing a humanitarian crisis caused by long-term political and economic instability. This year, Sudan was at the top of the list of countries in need of humanitarian assistance due to the escalation of conflict, mass movement of people, and the health care crisis in Sudan.

The Ongoing Civil War

The power struggle between the SAF and the RSF has created division within the country, with the SAF controlling the eastern regions and the RSF controlling the cities of Khartoum and the west. Foreign involvement also further intensified the Civil war, with the UAE and Chad supporting the RSF and Russia supporting and supplying weapons to the SAF. This rivalry and divide create an opportunity for a fractured Sudan with foreign-backed factions, like the Militia warfare in Libya.

Therefore, the ongoing civil war in Sudan has created a need for urgent international attention and humanitarian aid. The World Food Program (WFP) states that this conflict has made “the world’s largest hunger crisis.” Sudan’s situation has impacted millions and has quickly become the largest displacement crisis.

More than 25 million people across Sudan and its neighboring countries, South Sudan and Chad, struggle to find stability, food and shelter. According to the U.N., around 14,000 people have been killed and double that have been injured. More than 3 million refugees have fled the war since April 2023, and more than 8 million are internally displaced.

Poverty and War

Due to the ongoing conflict, food insecurity has become an extreme issue for the Sudanese people. More than 755,000 people face famine-like hunger, and famine on a larger scale could become a reality. In Sudan, 70% of the population relies on agriculture and livestock; however, many of these areas are used as grounds for fighting due to the conflict, according to the British Red Cross.

According to the WFP, 90% of people in need of humanitarian assistance and facing hunger are stuck in isolated areas inaccessible to the WFP. Authorities revoked permission for trucks to cross the borders to reach Sudan which further disturbed the distribution of humanitarian aid. Therefore, thousands of people in Darfur are struggling with hunger and malnutrition.

Health Care Crisis and Human Rights in Sudan

This deadly conflict has completely deteriorated Sudan’s already vulnerable health care system, limiting people’s access to medical attention and essential resources. More than two-thirds of hospitals in conflict zones are out of service, while the remaining are facing closure due to medical supply shortages, limited funding and staff.

Targeted attacks on hospitals and health care workers have prevented injured patients’ including women and children, from receiving medical attention and help. Hospitals in Sudan lack food, water and medicine. This health care crisis in Sudan limits civilians’ access to essential health care services and basic human necessities. Physical and verbal violence against staff has also increased and many people cannot receive medical help due to pressure from external groups.

Moreover, displacement and people’s urgent need to flee have severely impacted the Sudanese population. The lack of health care, water and sanitation led to the spread of various infections and waterborne illnesses. An outbreak of measles has caused the death of more than 1,000 children across the country, while diseases like cholera continue to spread, with around 8,000 confirmed cases, according to the International Rescue Committee (IRC).

Overcrowded shelters also increase health risks for vulnerable groups. Families struggle due to high food prices, inadequate shelter and limited medicinal care for people with chronic illnesses. Children also lack access to education due to the severity and distress of the conflict. concerns over sexual violence and public safety are also rising. The UNHCR calls for urgent civilian protection and safe access to aid and shelter.

Solutions

In response to increasing needs, many organizations are contributing to humanitarian efforts in Sudan despite the security and political barriers limiting humanitarian assistance in the country. UNICEF is working to provide essential services for children, including nutrition, education and safe water. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) provides medical aid, equipment, and urgent surgical procedures for injured civilians.

In addition, Save the Children is working to provide children with psychological support and primarily focus on child protection. At the same time, Doctors Without Borders runs emergency medical projects in conflict zones, offering treatment for malnutrition, vaccine programs and trauma care.

Conclusion

The health care crisis in Sudan has reached critical levels, with most hospitals out of service or struggling to operate amidst the war. Hospitals and health care facilities are short on staff and supplies but face continuous attacks, making them difficult to access and limiting health care treatments. The displacement of people also makes it difficult for people to access basic needs like water and medicine, increasing the risk of sickness and diseases. Many humanitarian organizations are working to provide medical aid, food supplies and shelter. However, urgent international efforts are necessary to support Sudan’s health care system and ensure its people’s safety and security.

– Gufran Elhrari

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Renewable Energy in Uzbekistan

Renewable Energy in UzbekistanRecently, the government of Uzbekistan has made notable strides toward achieving SDG 1: No Poverty, as highlighted in a roundtable discussion by the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan and UNDP. A key factor in this progress could be the introduction of renewable energy in Uzbekistan. This article examines how renewable energy could play a crucial role in alleviating poverty in Uzbekistan.

The Introduction of Renewable Energy

The World Bank, Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and the Government of Uzbekistan have entered into a financial agreement to develop a 250-megawatt solar photovoltaic plant, paired with a 63-megawatt battery energy storage system (BESS). This project aims to deliver clean and reliable electricity to approximately 75,000 households.

It stands out as Central Asia’s first renewable energy initiative to include an integrated BESS, enhancing the efficiency and flexibility of the power system. This initiative will improve supply security and mitigate the intermittency associated with renewable energy generation. Thanks to the World Bank’s guarantee, the project ensures an affordable supply of renewable energy in Uzbekistan for both households and businesses throughout the country.

Affordable and Steady Energy Supply

Access to affordable and reliable renewable energy in Uzbekistan could be critical for improving the quality of life and economic opportunities for the poor. In many remote areas of Uzbekistan, access to electricity is limited or nonexistent. Yet, a steady supply of energy is crucial to rural farmers, especially for irrigation, as the impact of natural disasters could intensify soon. Therefore, the implementation of cost-effective renewable energy such as solar energy could greatly enhance the agricultural production of wheat landscapes in key regions in Uzbekistan, thus increasing incomes for the agricultural sectors, which account for approximately a quarter of the national economy

Also, these initiatives could help address the electricity shortages. For instance, the introduction of energy-saving technologies could improve living conditions reducing reliance on expensive and harmful fuels for cooking and heating and facilitating the establishment of small businesses.

In October 2019, the Uzbek government adopted a strategy to transform the Republic of Uzbekistan into a Green Economy by 2030. This strategy aims to increase the share of renewable energy to over a quarter of total energy use and to modernize industrial infrastructure with environmentally safe technologies.

Economic Growth and Job Creation

Renewable energy can significantly combat poverty by fostering economic growth and job creation. A reliable supply of renewable energy can bolster the national and regional economies, leading to the expansion of small and medium-sized enterprises. This growth can create employment opportunities during the construction, maintenance and operation phases of renewable projects.

For instance, in 2018, Uzbekistan joined the World Bank’s Scaling Solar program to kickstart the development of 1 GW of solar energy. This investment in solar power could assist the country in lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the carbon intensity of its GDP. This green approach ensures that every sector such as business and social services could have a stable supply of clean and reliable energy. Moreover, the renewable energy sector can attract foreign investment, driving technological advancements and skill development among the local workforce.

The Future

In conclusion, Uzbekistan has set ambitious targets to halve its poverty rate by 2026 and become an upper-middle-income country by 2030. Renewable energy presents a formidable opportunity for Uzbekistan to combat poverty while promoting sustainable development. By investing in renewable technologies, Uzbekistan could stimulate economic growth, create jobs and improve the quality of life for its citizens. Furthermore, transitioning to cleaner energy sources could enhance environmental sustainability and resilience against climate change. As Uzbekistan continues its development journey, harnessing the potential of renewable energy could be crucial in empowering its population and reducing poverty.

– Hoi Ieng Chao

Hoi is based in Macau, China and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Economic Growth in El Salvador: Key Areas

Economic Growth in El SalvadorEl Salvador, once known for its high crime rates and violence, is now witnessing a remarkable transformation. The nation’s economy has significantly improved, contributing to peace and stability. This article explores five key ways of economic growth in El Salvador: an increase in tourism, a surge in foreign investments, substantial infrastructure development, the implementation of rehabilitation and social programs, and the growth of entrepreneurship and small and medium enterprises. These changes are paving the way for a brighter future for El Salvador, highlighting the profound economic benefits of a more stable society.

Tourism

El Salvador has experienced significant growth in tourism in recent years, highlighting its appeal as a travel destination. Reforms in public security and government efforts to improve safety have resulted in a safer environment for tourists. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), El Salvador has had an exponential growth of 157% during the first six months of 2023 compared to previous years. The organization forecasts El Salvador to be the leading country in international tourism in Latin America in 2024. Improvements in public security have created a more favourable environment for tourism, contributing to the country’s economic growth and sustainable development in the tourism sector.

Foreign Investments

El Salvador has seen a noticeable increase in foreign investments, reflecting growing confidence in the country’s economic potential. As the country has become safer, international businesses and investors have started to take a big interest in the opportunities available. This surge of foreign capital has stimulated economic growth which could create more jobs. This has opened the door for sustainable economic progress, positioning El Salvador as an attractive destination for future investments. A recent report by the Central Reverse Bank reflects a notable surge in foreign investments in the first three months of 2024; investments from abroad increased by 8%. El Salvador’s economy expanded by $14.33 million more than in 2023.

Infrastructure Development

El Salvador’s government has made significant strides in several major projects, including the construction of a new international airport and a port in La Unión. These projects are at various stages of development, alongside the modernization of road infrastructure and the health care system with new hospitals and roads. These achievements reflect the government’s commitment to the country’s development and set the stage for a more prosperous and stable future in El Salvador.

Entrepreneurship and Small and Medium Enterprises

The reduction of violence in El Salvador could significantly impact entrepreneurship and the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). According to the Bloomberg article based on Moody’s Investors Service information, the decrease in crime could encourage local companies to increase their investments. This is largely due to the implementation of the Territorial Control Plan (PCT) and the Exception Regime by the government, which has restored peace of mind and confidence among both the population and business owners. With more than 64,000 terrorists captured and one of the lowest homicide rates in the world, the safer environment has allowed SMEs to prosper, contributing to the country’s economic growth and creating new opportunities for employment and development.

Community Development Programs

The government, in collaboration with organizations like the Peace Corps, is providing training in entrepreneurship, employability skills, financial management and life skills. These programs aim to empower communities, especially the youth and women, to take advantage of new economic opportunities. By focusing on these areas, El Salvador is promoting economic security and mobility, ultimately contributing to the nation’s growth and stability.

Conclusion

To conclude, economic growth in El Salvador illustrates the significant effects of stability and growth on national prosperity. The boost in tourism, rise in foreign investments, extensive infrastructure improvements, community development programs and the expansion of entrepreneurship and small businesses are key factors driving this transformation. These developments not only emphasize El Salvador’s potential but also set the stage for a brighter and more prosperous future, pointing out the substantial benefits of a stable and succeeding economy.

– Maria Urioste

Maria is based in Maspeth, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Sports Programs Fighting Child Poverty in Saint Lucia

Child Poverty in Saint LuciaAn island country in the Caribbean with about 180,000 people, Saint Lucia sees 25% of its population living in poverty. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Julien Alfred captured the world’s attention by winning gold and silver in the 100 and 200-meter events, securing Saint Lucia’s first Olympic medals. Alfred stands out, but she’s not the only remarkable athlete from Saint Lucia. Programs like the Special Olympics, United Through Sports and the Saint Lucia Sports Academy are cultivating future athletes. With one-third of the island’s youth living in poverty—higher than the adult rate of 21%—these sports initiatives combat child poverty in Saint Lucia by providing uniforms and equipment, mentorship, community support, educational scholarships and teaching life skills such as teamwork and leadership.

Special Olympics St. Lucia

Since the late 1970s, Special Olympics St. Lucia has provided year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The program includes five official sports and development programs: Athlete Leadership, Young Athletes, Healthy Athletes and Project UNIFY. In 2023, Special Olympics St. Lucia had 181 registered athletes and participated in the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany. Overall, the organization aims to promote physical fitness, courage and community engagement.

United Through Sports

United Through Sports has achieved a 100% increase in school attendance among the 2,000 children they worked with in Saint Lucia and supported 16 of those players in becoming nationally capped athletes, meaning those athletes represented their national team in an international competition. The organization has three sports programs in Saint Lucia. The Youth Rugby Crime Prevention Project uses rugby to channel aggression and teach discipline to youth in high-crime areas. The Young Leadership Project trains older children as leaders and coaches, encouraging them to mentor younger peers. The Female Empowerment Project aims to break stereotypes in sports by encouraging and empowering young girls to participate in traditionally male-dominated sports.

Saint Lucia Sports Academy

When the school opened in 2019, the Saint Lucia Sports Academy became the first and only boarding school in Saint Lucia that emphasized both athletic and educational discipline. The Academy provides students with all the school supplies, tutors and sports equipment necessary to succeed academically and athletically.

Looking Ahead

Sports programs in Saint Lucia are essential for transforming the lives of young athletes by providing support that addresses both their athletic and personal needs. These programs offer critical resources that many young athletes might not otherwise have access to, including training facilities, sports equipment and educational materials necessary for their academic and athletic success. Mentorship plays a pivotal role, guiding young athletes through the challenges of sports and life while fostering a sense of community that instills important values like discipline, resilience and teamwork. By equipping these athletes with the tools they need to overcome child poverty in Saint Lucia, sports programs empower them to achieve success both on the field and in their academic and personal lives.

– 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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Poverty and Terrorism: How Economic Inequality Fuels Extremism

How Poverty Fuels TerrorismThe link between poverty and terrorism is complex, involving economic, political and social factors that drive individuals toward extremism. Economic hardship can create environments where extremist groups thrive, as they often exploit the vulnerability of impoverished communities to gain followers. When individuals lack access to stable employment, education and necessities, the appeal of joining extremist movements increases as these groups often promise income, food and social belonging. Understanding the connection between poverty and terrorism is crucial for crafting effective counterterrorism strategies that address root causes rather than just symptoms.

Economic Hardship as a Driver of Extremism

Studies indicate that poverty-stricken regions are more susceptible to terrorism due to the economic vulnerability of their populations. With limited job opportunities and scarce resources, extremist groups can lure impoverished individuals with promises of financial support and security. For instance, research from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) found that economic factors played a significant role in driving individuals to join extremist groups. Poverty and unemployment create a fertile environment for radicalization as individuals seek stability and hope in regions where governmental support is lacking.

Social Marginalization and Lack of Education

Poverty often coincides with a lack of educational opportunities, which further exacerbates vulnerability to extremist ideologies. Without access to education, individuals are more susceptible to radical propaganda, as they may lack the critical thinking skills to resist extremist narratives. Alongside this, poor education systems can create a failure to address poverty and unemployment. Addressing educational inequality can be a significant tool in reducing susceptibility and root causes of extremist recruitment.

Political Instability and Weak Institutions

Economic hardship is often intertwined with political instability, as poverty-stricken regions frequently lack robust institutions capable of maintaining law and order. In regions with weak governance, extremist groups can step in to provide services such as food distribution, security and basic health care, essentially becoming a de facto government. This creates a power vacuum that extremist groups exploit, using economic incentives to gain loyalty and recruit members. For instance, areas like the Sahel region in Africa have seen an increase in terrorism partly due to the inability of local governments to provide essential services.

Displacement and Refugee Crises

Poverty exacerbates displacement, which in turn fuels terrorism by creating large populations of vulnerable, dislocated individuals who may turn to extremism out of desperation. The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports that displaced populations face extreme economic hardship, often living in dire conditions with limited access to food, shelter and safety. Extremist groups, recognizing this desperation, target refugee camps and displaced communities to recruit new members with promises of stability and sustenance. Compared to only a decade ago, the number of refugees worldwide has more than tripled. Making it more important than ever to address the basic needs of displaced populations to reduce the risk of extremist recruitment.

Economic Development as a Tool Against Terrorism

Countering terrorism requires a multidimensional approach that includes addressing poverty through economic development programs. By investing in job creation, education and infrastructure, governments and international organizations can reduce the appeal of extremist groups. The United Nations advocates for initiatives that focus on youth employment and educational programs that offer alternatives to terrorism. In Africa and the Middle East, for example, initiatives that promote vocational training have helped safeguard youth against extremist ideologies by providing economic opportunities outside of radical groups.

Conclusion

The relationship between poverty and terrorism highlights the need for holistic counterterrorism strategies that address socioeconomic factors. Tackling poverty, improving educational access, strengthening governance and supporting displaced populations are all crucial steps in reducing the appeal of extremist ideologies. Furthermore, by addressing these underlying issues, the global community can work toward a future where economic stability undermines terrorism’s grip on vulnerable populations.

– Harriet Conway

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

Photo: Flickr

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DSWHUB Fights Poverty in Nigeria

DSWHUBNigeria, the most populous country in Africa, continues to grapple with severe socioeconomic issues that have left millions in poverty. As of 2023, nearly 87 million Nigerians live below the poverty line, with inflation hitting a 24-year high of 31.7%. Despite efforts to address unemployment, the youth face high underemployment rates and a lack of quality job opportunities, leading to widespread poverty in Nigeria.

This economic disparity is a major factor in irregular migration, with many Nigerians risking their lives to seek better opportunities abroad. In 2017 alone, more than 18,000 Nigerians arrived in Italy via the perilous Mediterranean route. The desperation that pushes individuals to migrate also makes them vulnerable to human trafficking, often ending up in forced labor or sexual exploitation.

Denny Social Welfare Hub

Denny Social Welfare Hub (DSWHUB), a nonprofit organization, is tackling the root causes of irregular migration and human trafficking by focusing on community empowerment, education and advocacy. One of its key initiatives is the iEMPATHY Campaign, which raises awareness about the dangers of irregular migration and human trafficking. This campaign specifically targets women and other vulnerable groups, educating them about the risks involved in irregular migration and empowering them to make informed decisions.

In 2023, DSWHUB held a notable community engagement event in Ogun State, where it educated residents on the risks of illegal migration and the tactics traffickers use to exploit vulnerable individuals. The event emphasized the role of women in migration decisions and promoted the idea of safe and legal migration pathways​. By increasing awareness and fostering informed decision-making, DSWHUB reduces the number of individuals falling prey to traffickers.

Support for Migrants and Survivors of Human Trafficking

In addition to awareness campaigns, DSWHUB actively supports the reintegration of returned migrants and survivors of human trafficking. These individuals often face stigma and difficulty rebuilding their lives. Through vocational training, education and capacity-building programs, DSWHUB equips them with the skills they need to reintegrate successfully into society. Its focus on long-term economic empowerment ensures survivors are less likely to become re-trafficked.

DSWHUB’s efforts have had a tangible impact on the communities it serves. By educating vulnerable populations and offering alternatives to dangerous migration routes, DSWHUB has helped reduce instances of irregular migration and human trafficking. Many individuals who participated in the iEMPATHY Campaign have shared testimonies of how the program equipped them with knowledge that helped them avoid falling victim to traffickers.

Moreover, DSWHUB’s reintegration programs have enabled survivors of trafficking to rebuild their lives. Through skills training and support, individuals have gained the confidence and resources to start small businesses, seek employment or return to education. By addressing the root causes of poverty and unemployment, DSWHUB is making a lasting impact in breaking the cycle of exploitation and preventing retrafficking​.

Summary

DSWHUB is addressing the systemic issues of poverty and unemployment in Nigeria, which drive irregular migration and human trafficking. Through innovative campaigns like iEMPATHY and comprehensive reintegration programs, DSWHUB is creating long-term solutions that empower individuals and strengthen communities. Its work not only saves lives but also offers a model for how grassroots organizations can combat human trafficking and irregular migration in regions plagued by socioeconomic challenges.

DSWHUB is helping vulnerable populations build safer, more secure futures free from exploitation by focusing on education, empowerment and advocacy. DSWHUB’s ongoing work highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of migration and trafficking to create lasting change in Nigeria.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

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Health Initiatives in South Asia

Unlocking Health: Collaborative Solutions for South AsiaHome to nearly 25% of the global population, South Asia is one of the world’s most populous yet vulnerable regions, facing extensive health disparities due to poverty, limited health care infrastructure and high disease burdens. South Asia has the second-highest number and proportion of the world’s extremely poor at a staggering 33.4%. In response, countries like India, Pakistan and Bangladesh have launched targeted health initiatives to address these ongoing challenges, especially for marginalized populations. 

Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, mobile health clinics are reaching remote communities, providing essential health care that would otherwise be inaccessible. BRAC, one of the world’s largest NGOs, has partnered with the government to deploy these clinics across rural areas, delivering crucial services to more than 20 million people annually. In addition to general health care, these mobile clinics offer antenatal and postnatal care, vaccinations and nutrition counseling, all of which are critical in a country where approximately 60% of the population lives in rural areas without easy access to health care facilities.

The Shasthya Shebika initiative, one of BRAC’s standout programs, trains local women to serve as health workers. With more than 50,000 Shasthya Shebikas operating in rural communities, this program reaches more than 80 million people across Bangladesh. The initiative has been shown to reduce maternal mortality in the areas it serves, highlighting the effectiveness of community-based health care support in reducing life-threatening childbirth complications.

Pakistan

In Pakistan, vaccination efforts have led to significant reductions in preventable diseases. Polio, once a widespread threat, is now close to being eradicated due to a massive vaccination campaign launched in partnership with UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO). Since 1988, polio cases in Pakistan have dropped by more than 99%—from thousands annually to just a handful in recent years. In 2021, the campaign vaccinated more than 40 million children under 5 across the country, illustrating the reach and impact of sustained immunization efforts.

Pakistan’s Sehat Sahulat Program, a health care financing initiative introduced in 2015, provides health care cards to families earning less than $2 per day. The program currently covers more than a million families, providing them with up to $6,000 annually for medical expenses, including surgeries, maternal health services and emergency care. Studies reveal that households participating in the program are more likely to seek medical care early, reducing disease progression and associated health care costs.

India

In India, where infant mortality and malnutrition are significant challenges, programs like Saans and Poshan Abhiyaan are making measurable progress. The Saans Initiative, launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, trains community health workers to perform neonatal resuscitation, reducing neonatal mortality rates in rural and underserved areas. Studies reveal that trained health workers can reduce neonatal deaths by up to 20% in resource-limited areas, a statistic supported by Saans data from states like Madhya Pradesh, where the program is heavily implemented.

On the nutrition front, Poshan Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission) has been a cornerstone in India’s fight against child malnutrition. Launched in 2018, this program targets stunting, wasting and anemia among children under 5 and women of reproductive age. Since its inception, the mission has reached more than 80 million people across India. Data from the National Family Health Survey reveals a 6% reduction in stunting and a 2% reduction in wasting among children between 2016 and 2020, attributed in part to Poshan Abhiyaan’s focus on community-based nutrition programs, counseling and distribution of fortified foods.

Looking Ahead

The success of health initiatives in South Asia hinges on strong partnerships, leveraging local expertise and international resources to drive sustainable, large-scale impact. Collaborations between BRAC and Bangladesh’s Ministry of Health, Pakistan’s Sehat Sahulat with GIZ and India’s Poshan Abhiyaan with UNICEF and the World Bank have empowered millions, reducing maternal mortality, nearly eradicating polio and lowering childhood stunting rates. Together, these ongoing initiatives transform health access and quality of life for vulnerable populations, creating a foundation for lasting health improvements across South Asia.

– Irtija Ahmad

Irtija is based in Slough, Berkshire, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Solar Energy Solutions: Powering Health Care in Rural Zambia

health care in Rural ZambiaAccess to reliable electricity is critical for the functioning of health facilities. Yet, only 4% of rural communities in Zambia have access to on-grid electricity. For many health care workers, the sight of a child being born in light is a rare victory in an otherwise dark environment where babies are delivered, sutures are given and patients are treated—all in darkness. This not only endangers lives but also limits the potential for effective health care delivery in rural areas. So, powering health care in rural Zambia is important.

The Importance of Electricity in Health Care

The link between electricity and essential health care services is crucial. Many medical procedures rely on lighting for safe and effective delivery. Furthermore, the lack of electricity severely hampers access to clean water, as pumps depend on power to push water into pipes. This combination creates a challenging environment for health care providers, who often lack the necessary equipment to deliver lifesaving procedures.

The SIRHES Project

In response to this crisis, On Call Africa has launched the Strengthening the Integration of Renewable Health Energy Solutions (SIRHES) project, which specifically targets three rural health systems in the Kazungula District. SIRHES focuses on improving the functionality, quality of care and hygiene. This is achieved by providing solar power in combination with complementary health interventions.

In the past 16 months, the initiative has made significant strides in powering health care in rural Zambia. It has:

  • Equipped three rural health care facilities with solar power systems
  • Trained 82 Neighbourhood Health Committee (NHC) members to support health facility initiatives and promote health within the community.
  • Installed a solar-powered Chlorine Production Unit (CPU) at the Kazungula District Health Office, enabling the monthly production of chlorine for disinfectants used in 27 health care facilities and for water purification in five target communities.
  • Supported the development of a business model for the CPU to generate income and ensure project sustainability.
  • Formed the Kazungula District Technical Working Group to oversee the project and provide long-term support for chlorine production.
  • Coordinated training sessions on operations and maintenance to ensure that solar systems are properly maintained and sustainable within the community.

Final Remark

On Call Africa’s commitment to providing solar energy solutions and powering health care in rural Zambia represents a critical step toward overcoming the barriers posed by energy poverty. Furthermore, by integrating renewable energy into health care systems, the organization not only enhances the capacity of health facilities but also contributes to the broader fight against poverty. This ensures that everyone, regardless of where they live, has access to the modern health care they deserve. The partnership with local communities and health workers is essential in building a sustainable future, one where no clinic is left in darkness and every life has the chance to thrive.

– Edzhe Miteva

Edzhe is based in London and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

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