Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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Addressing Elderly Poverty in Zambia

Elderly Poverty in Zambia
Elderly poverty in Zambia is a growing concern in a country where more than 60% of the population lives below the poverty line. Older Zambians face unique challenges, often compounded by a lack of formal pensions, leaving many reliant on informal family networks or charity. As poverty continues to affect much of the population, elderly individuals are especially vulnerable to economic hardship, with limited resources to meet their basic needs.

The Social Cash Transfer (SCT) Programme, which the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services initiated in 2003, plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable households, including those headed by elderly individuals. The primary goal of the program is to “reduce extreme poverty” and disrupt the intergenerational cycle of poverty within these households. Through regular cash transfers, recipients report improvements in food security, school attendance for children and overall household stability.

The State of Poverty in Zambia

Poverty in Zambia remains widespread, with rural populations disproportionately affected. According to the World Bank, more than 60% of rural Zambians live in poverty. Subsistence farming is the primary source of livelihood for these households, but unpredictable weather conditions and poor infrastructure make it difficult to sustain their livelihoods. Those living in poverty typically lack access to basic services such as clean water, health care and education, trapping them in a cycle that is hard to break.

Older Zambians, particularly those without family support, face significant challenges. The situation is dire for households headed by older individuals, with 83% of these households living in poverty and 66% classified as extremely poor. These households are often burdened by health issues that make it difficult for older people to work, while also increasing their medical expenses. The country’s current social security system falls short in addressing these needs, with very few older adults having access to pensions due to lifetimes spent working in the informal labor market. As a result, most elderly individuals have no financial safety net. Additionally, “less than 12% of Zambia’s current labor force is covered by any form of social security,” meaning that future generations of older adults are likely to face similar challenges in the absence of substantial reforms.

How the SCT Program Helps

The SCT Program has shown positive results in reducing poverty among Zambia’s elderly population. Recipients report that the cash transfers allow them to purchase essential goods such as food and clothing, as well as household items. This financial support is critical, particularly for the elderly, who often suffer from age-related health conditions or disabilities that prevent them from earning an income. According to a 2022 UNICEF report, elderly people who receive these transfers experience less hunger and improved access to health care services.

However, the program faces ongoing challenges. Many elderly individuals, especially in remote areas, struggle to access the program due to poor infrastructure and a lack of awareness about the services available. Rising inflation and increasing costs of living further strain the cash transfers, making it difficult for recipients to meet all their needs.

Looking Forward

Zambia’s elderly population continues to face significant challenges, but the Social Cash Transfer Program provides a vital lifeline. Expanding the program to reach more of the elderly population, improving infrastructure for better accessibility, and ensuring that payments keep pace with inflation are essential steps toward reducing elderly poverty in Zambia. Addressing the specific needs of older people remains crucial for Zambia’s overall poverty reduction efforts as the nation’s population continues to age.

– Isabel Gallagher

Isabel is based in Dorset, UK and focuses on Celebs and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Organizations Supporting Rice Farming in Vietnam

Charities Aid Rice Farmers in VietnamVietnam, which has seen a rapid reduction in poverty, decreased its poverty rate from 16.8% to below 5% over the last decade, lifting more than 10 million people out of extreme poverty. The country attributes much of this success to rapid employment growth and development in labor-intensive export sectors, including rice production.

The country ranks as the third largest producer and exporter of rice, with the crop occupying 82% of the country’s arable land. Despite significant strides in poverty reduction, rural areas, particularly in the Red River and Mekong deltas, continue to struggle with high rates of child poverty. Smallholder farmers in these regions rely heavily on rice for their livelihoods, yet they represent about 80% of Vietnam’s remaining poor population.

Numerous organizations and charities are crucial in providing education and resources to these farmers, enhancing their living standards and helping eradicate rural poverty. The drastic transformation in agriculture has fueled economic changes and significantly contributed to the reduction of poverty in Vietnam.

World Bank

The Vietnam Sustainable Agriculture Transformation Project (VnSAT) is boosting farmers by advancing sustainable rice farming techniques through improved knowledge and resources. The project includes restructuring initiatives such as training courses, building infrastructure like electricity and accessible roads and deploying new equipment. Particularly active in the impoverished Mekong Delta region, VnSAT has enabled farmers to cut their input use by 50% and increase their earnings by an average of 30%. With 62.9% of the population benefitting from its efforts, VnSAT has proven to be a major success. Reducing input and resource use is critical for lowering costs for smallholder farmers, especially as prices for fuel, pesticides and fertilizers continue to rise, which puts farmers under increasing pressure to boost production.

RIKOLTO

Rikolto, an independent international NGO, supports smallholder farmers in Vietnam by focusing on rural poverty alleviation and promoting a sustainable, inclusive rice sector. The organization aims to ensure food security for future generations in a climate-friendly way. Its operations rest on three pillars: increasing rice productivity sustainably, promoting market inclusivity for independent farmers and strengthening governance through multi-stakeholder platforms to influence policies. Rikolto has successfully introduced Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) production practices to 3,000 farmers by 2023, reducing production costs by 12%. Additionally, the organization enhances women’s involvement in decision-making and pilots new rice farming techniques to boost yield and income for smallholder farmers in Vietnam.

IFAD

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) collaborates with partners and the Vietnamese government to help the country’s poorest people, especially ethnic minorities, women and independent farmers, overcome extreme poverty. The rural poor often face limited access to services, transportation and resources and are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters and changing weather patterns. IFAD’s strategy promotes participation, strengthens institutional capacity and builds partnerships to enhance living standards and reduce poverty among the most vulnerable groups in Vietnam.

The Pro-Poor Partnership for Agroforestry Development Project focuses on upland farmers in northern Vietnam’s poorest areas. These farmers face challenges due to limited agricultural land, mountainous terrain and underdeveloped forestry resources, which are crucial for their food security and income. The project enhances equity in forest land allocation, develops hillside farming systems and diversifies income-generating opportunities to support these communities.

Looking Ahead

Vietnam’s rural farmers face daily challenges in combating poverty, but with support from various organizations and charities, they are integrating into a broader, more inclusive society. This integration supports sustainable farming practices that provide food and income for rice farmers. By 2050, the global population is expected to exceed 9.6 billion, necessitating a 50% increase in global food production to ensure worldwide food security. Family farms, which produce 70% of the world’s food, play a crucial role in maintaining these essential agricultural practices for the global population.

– Sofia Bowes

Sofia is based on the Isle Of Skye and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Sofia Bowes

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Renewable Energy in Samoa

Renewable Energy in Samoa
While extreme poverty does not exist in Samoa, 20% of Samoans still live under the national poverty line, a decrease from 21.9% in 2018. This could be due to the initiatives working to increase self-reliance and sustainability focusing on the rural areas and those considered vulnerable, like women and young people.

Energy Projects

In 2019, Samoa conducted two small hydro projects, the first of many, to supply 20% of the Island’s demand for energy. The hydropower plants were constructed on two separate islands (Upolu and Savai’i) and underwent rigorous environmental safeguarding checks to ensure no damage to the surrounding areas. The goal to rely on 100% sustainable energy was on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic challenges, however, in February 2024, the E.P.C General Manager confirmed that the plans are still going steady, intending to have 100% renewable energy in Samoa the next seven years.

The plans come with several challenges, including the “high upfront costs of renewable energy technology,” requiring international partnerships to help fund the opportunities. The main donor parties include the New Zealand Government, The European Union and the Asian Development Bank, according to Hydro Review.

The aim is that the accessibility of cleaner and higher quality services at a lower price will increase and energy poverty will decrease. Samoa was on track to have 100% electricity access, reaching it in 2020, however, in the past four years the rate has been decreasing with the current rate being 98.30%. This decline, whilst not being as low as other countries sets a worrying trend for Samoa especially due to the increase in natural disasters, so action like the new projects (while not urgent) are necessary.

Subsidized Electricity Tariffs

The renewable energy project report states that the vulnerable people of Samoa will receive subsidized electricity tariffs and secure energy for all residents, creating social inclusion to help develop income generation models for the poorest project participants. The projects are established on existing sites with any that required land acquisition from locals being removed from the project, they also serve to increase economic growth and international relations, hoping to outsource the energy to surrounding countries. 

Looking Ahead

This push towards renewable energy in Samoa comes from the increasing reliance on fossil fuels and the increase in natural disasters due to changing weather patterns. By 2100, Samoa could lose 3.8% of its GDP due to the aftermath of natural disasters, potentially threatening the steady decrease of poverty across the country. However, with the recent projects, Samoa has simultaneously addressed both the threat that changing weather patterns hold and the needs of those living below the poverty line, harnessing renewable energy to help on a global and local scale.

– Caitlin Mulholland

Caitlin is based in Lymington, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Watsi: Making Life-Saving Surgery Accessible for All

WatsiEach year, 17 million people die from conditions that could be treated with surgery as a result of a lack of access to affordable and quality surgical care. This burden is five times greater than HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined. Additionally, 81 million people face catastrophic financial hardship due to the costs of accessing surgical care, including transportation and other socioeconomic barriers. Women and children are particularly at risk, with one in three women requiring medical or surgical intervention during childbirth, often unable to afford care.

Watsi combines technology and compassion to empower anyone, anywhere, to fund life-changing health care for individuals in the Global South. By connecting donors with those in need, Watsi fosters healthier lives, thriving communities and stronger health systems, profoundly impacting global well-being. With its innovative platform and commitment to radical transparency, Watsi’s global network of best-in-class frontline medical teams provides transformative, high-quality surgery for patients who would otherwise not have access to care or risk being pushed further into a lifetime of poverty.

About Watsi

Watsi is a nonprofit organization committed to making quality health care accessible to everyone by connecting people to fund health care for those in need in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The story of Watsi began when cofounder Chase Adams, while serving in the Peace Corps in Costa Rica, saw a mother on a bus asking for donations to fund her son’s surgery. This experience inspired him to create an organization that uses technology to crowdfund life-saving treatments for patients who cannot afford them.

Since then, Watsi has grown to help more than 30,000 patients across 33 countries, raising more than $10 million in donations. The organization partners with local medical organizations in the Global South, ensuring patients receive high-quality care. Watsi’s innovative platform shares individual patients’ stories, enabling supporters from more than 100 countries to fund surgeries and treatments directly. By unlocking $18 million in private capital through crowdfunding, Watsi is helping bridge the health care access gap, creating a more connected and equitable world.

Success Story

A notable success story is that of Caroline, a farmer in Uganda who had been suffering from severe pain due to an ovarian mass. With a simple surgery costing $220, she could be cured, but for Caroline, that price was unattainable. Watsi’s global community and its partner, African Mission Health Care, came together to fund her treatment fully. As a result, Caroline is now healthy and back to farming and providing for her family.

A Call for Action

“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to come together to build a world where every person can access the care they need to live a healthy life. Creating a world with health for all and closing the health equity gap requires concerted action and bold commitments, the creation of innovative cross-sector partnerships and a reimagining of how health care is accessed by the world’s most vulnerable communities. Through leveraging Watsi’s innovative health financing platform, we can move farther and faster toward this shared, audacious goal of a brighter, healthier world for all,” stated Mackinnon Engen, Watsi’s Executive Director.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Unsplash

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Mental Health in Namibia 

Mental Health In Namibia
Extreme poverty looms over Namibia, negatively affecting its population of 2.6 million and keeping living standards low. These high levels of socioeconomic hardship often cause people to overlook the country’s mental health issues, although illnesses such as anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), trauma, bipolar disorders and psychosis affect 25.6% of its population and the number could double by 2025. Here is information about the correlation between poverty and mental health in Namibia.

Poverty and Mental Health in Namibia

Namibia has a poverty rate of 47% and 46% of its youth workforce is unemployed, according to ISS African Futures. These factors contribute to a lack of financial resources and constant pressure to earn more, leading to high stress and anxiety levels. The Namibian reported that “approximately 70% of Namibians suffer from stress and chronic health conditions.” Additionally, people with low incomes often have limited access to mental health services, further worsening their situations.

The country suffers from a traumatic history. From 1915 to 1990, apartheid South Africa occupied Namibia, during which many of the latter’s citizens were killed and displaced. The country only gained independence in 1990, after a long, drawn-out war, which caused 20,000 to 25,000 deaths.

HIV and Psychological Issues

Furthermore, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is quite prevalent in Namibia. According to the World Bank, the virus infects 11% of adults aged 15 to 49 years in the country.

Studies have shown that HIV has a direct link to mental health; it causes damage to brain cells and leads to a variety of neurocognitive disorders. Living with HIV also causes acute psychological distress and depression, both for the patient and their loved ones. A 2024 study found that depression affects 24.6% of HIV patients and 17% suffer from anxiety.

Approximately 9.3% of Namibians die from HIV. The burden of carrying the disease and the discrimination against it also increases the risk of suicide. From April 2020 to March 2023, 1,542 Namibians committed suicide, 82% being men. 

Cultural Influences

Another factor that further complicates mental health in Namibia is the stigma and cultural beliefs toward mental health issues. Many Namibians consider mental illness to be a sign of weakness or low willpower. Because of this, people go undiagnosed and there is less availability of treatments. A 2020 study showed that the level of public prejudice against mental health was 41% on the Community Attitudes towards Mental Illness (CAMI) scale.

The country has only two major mental institutions: Windhoek Central Hospital, which dedicates only 220 beds to mental health care, and Intermediate Hospital Oshakati, which offers 60 beds but often deals with 200 patients at once.

Solace in Drugs and Alcohol

Citizens affected by poor mental health in Namibia often cope through substance abuse. However, this can further exacerbate their condition and can result in psychosis, bipolar disorders, and depression, along with a decline in physiological health as well.

 The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime reported that: “in 2020, the Government of Namibia confiscated 843,892 kg of cannabis, 4,930 tablets of mandrax, 2,922 grams of crystal meth, and 1,072 grams of cocaine.” Also, in 2023, WHO stated that Namibia drinks “2.38 of pure alcohol per capita amongst people aged 15 or above.”

Alleviating These Issues

Despite all these challenges, there is still a ray of hope for Namibians. Countless organizations have stepped up to advocate for mental health awareness and solutions. Established in 1980, Lifeline/Childline focuses on supporting emotional wellness and child protection in Namibia. It now has wide-reaching services all across the country and has gained international recognition from organizations such as USAID and UNICEF.

Lifeline/Childline operates a free counselling helpline that is available 24/7, providing mental health support to individuals suffering from a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression and trauma. The organization provides counselling via telephone, text message or in person, making them accessible to a large sum of the population. From April 2024 to June 2024, its toll-free helpline answered 10,101 calls.

The non-profit also runs awareness programs that aim to reduce the stigma regarding mental health in Namibia and the importance of seeking help through social media campaigns, educational workshops, community outreach programs and its radio show.

Even though Namibia seems to be struggling in the face of these challenges, it’s important to acknowledge the fact that non-profits such as Lifeline/Childline are making a palpable difference and are changing people’s lives for the better. With more progress from the country’s numerous non-profits and government, mental illness rates in Namibia will likely decline and its citizens will be able to have bright, optimistic futures.

– Mustafa Tareen

Mustafa is based in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan and focuses on Global Heath and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Top 5 Charities Operating in the Dominican Republic

Charities Operating in the Dominican Republic
With approximately one in four living under the poverty line and 40% being at risk of falling into poverty, the Dominican Republic suffers from a plethora of social issues. In particular, women and children are at most risk. For women, there are sharp increases in maternal mortality, with 107 women dying for every 100,000 births. Whereas for children, seven out of 10 have been pregnant at least once. The Dominican Republic is also prone to natural disasters which put infrastructure, food and water at risk. However, in recent years, five key charities have been operating in the Dominican Republic. They primarily focus on women and children but also improve healthcare, education and accessibility to food and water. Here are the five charities operating in the Dominican Republic.

Project Hope

Since 1996, Project Hope has worked in the Dominican Republic to respond to those most vulnerable: women and children, according to its website. It continues to improve care within maternity hospitals, distribute crucial medicines and supplies and partner with international universities to establish medical programs for staff training. Within its work, the organization has provided 2,300 children with health services and workshops covering pregnancy prevention and HIV/AIDs.

For the last 20 years, Project Hope has founded three maternal and child health clinics providing care for 150,000 patients each year. October 2019 report found that the charity had contributed to a 31% decrease in maternal mortality and a 25% drop in neonatal mortality.

World Vision

World Vision is an international charity whose work in the Dominican Republic has responded to food accessibility problems, educational issues and natural disasters. In response to Hurricane Fiona in 2022, the charity provided urgent support. Distributing more than 3,200 food and hygiene kits to survivors helped bring the country closer to stability, especially when inflation increased food prices, putting more families at risk of poverty. Donations to World Vision are concentrated on specific project areas, and once established, can work in the chosen community for 15-20 years.

Caritas Internationalis

Established in 1961, Caritas Internationalis has worked in the country to provide support for health care, housing, water, hygiene and cases of emergency. The international organization consists of 162 Catholic relief organizations working in 200 countries. In the Dominican Republic, the organization works with local governments to ensure that they follow policy and regulations. After Hurricane Noel in 2007, the charity provided humanitarian aid through helping those affected access clean water, and also participated in the rebuilding of houses and schools. 

The Mariposa DR Foundation

The Mariposa DR Foundation runs the “Unleash the Leader in a Girl” program aiming to empower girls most at risk of poverty and pregnancy. The foundation seeks to end generational poverty by educating women so that they can reach adulthood with a substantial education and avoid child pregnancy. In 2023, the Foundation raised $1,367,152 to support the program. In the same year, the program also opened a Culinary School, helping to improve nutrition for the girls and their families.

The organization puts an emphasis on attending summer programs. As the summertime can be a risk for young girls due to more time at home, there is an increased threat of early marriage or pregnancy. The time spent away from home, helps girls transition from childhood to adulthood safely.

Save the Children

Save the Children operates in 120 countries to guarantee children access to sufficient healthcare and education. In the Dominican Republic, the charity has helped to protect 1,665 children from harm, 3,765 children during the crisis, and provided 27,318 children with a healthy start. In several cases, the charity has provided portable water supplies, assisted with crop planting and animal breeding, and created community based vegetable gardens so that families can grow their own in times of short supplies.

These five key charities operating in the Dominican Republic have crucially helped with reducing poverty, the prevention of maternal mortality and child pregnancy. While there are still ongoing issues with many families still at risk of falling below the poverty line, these organizations continue to relieve pressures on those most vulnerable.

– Ellie Western

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

Photo: Flickr

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WHO Approves Mpox Diagnostic Test

mpox diagnostic testThe mpox epidemic is spreading globally, with case numbers rising and new countries reporting the illness. As of August 2024, more than 100,000 confirmed cases of mpox (an illness caused by the monkeypox virus) have been reported in more than 120 countries. Furthermore, current figures indicate that there have been 600 deaths this year in Africa alone.

Lack of testing is a large factor in mpox transmission. For example, 63% of suspected cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo this year were not tested. Testing is vital in virus detection and prevention. Indeed, without a diagnosis, patients do not receive treatment and risk spreading mpox to those around them. Prevention tactics have to be implemented if mpox is to be prevented.

WHO’s Response

In response to the mpox outbreak, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the first in vitro diagnostic test for mpox in August 2024. Developed by Abbott Molecular, the Alinity m MPXV assay utilizes DNA analysis and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology. The test detects the monkeypox virus from human skin lesion specimens in real-time. This groundbreaking test is set to revolutionize the fight against mpox. Indeed, this advance in testing will enhance diagnostic capabilities and facilitate timely responses to outbreaks.

The diagnostic test is currently under Emergency Use Listing (EUL), a procedure that evaluates the safety and efficacy of treatments, including in vitro diagnostics, to assist WHO Member States in making informed decisions about acquiring emergency health equipment. Being designated as an EUL will enhance the global availability of the mpox test, ensuring that more countries can access this vital diagnostic tool in their fight against the outbreak.

Diagnosis plays a crucial role in virus prevention. This fast-working, real-time test will significantly enhance the diagnostic capabilities for monkeypox virus treatment. The Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) method enables the identification of individuals who require intervention. This test allows mpox cases to be accurately identified, monitored and controlled, thereby improving overall public health responses to the outbreak.

A Significant Milestone in the Fight Against Mpox

Dr. Yukiko, WHO Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products, stated: “This first mpox diagnostic test listed under the EUL procedure represents a significant milestone in expanding testing availability in affected countries.” It indicates a significant advancement in the mpox fight, providing high-quality medical equipment for those that need it. This progression in preventing the monkeypox virus will protect those with mpox and those at risk of contracting it.

Final Remark

This step marks just the beginning of the effort to combat mpox. However, there are ongoing discussions with other in vitro diagnostic manufacturers that aim to expand the range of diagnostic options. By increasing availability, these efforts will ensure that treatment and prevention are accessible to those in need, ultimately enhancing the global response to the outbreak.

– Megan Hall

Megan is based in Suffolk, UK and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Empowering Women in Nigeria: The Grace Agbonlahor Foundation

The Grace Agbonlahor FoundationIn Nigeria, women and girls face numerous obstacles that hinder their socioeconomic progress, particularly in the informal sector. According to data from Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), women comprise a significant portion of the informal workforce. Indeed, they often lack access to essential benefits such as health care, pensions and financial services. This makes them more vulnerable to economic shocks and limits their ability to grow their businesses or secure stable incomes.

Furthermore, the gender gap in education remains a pressing issue, with many young girls unable to complete secondary education due to cultural norms, early marriage and financial hardship. This lack of education directly affects their ability to secure formal employment, further entrenching cycles of poverty. The situation is particularly dire in rural areas, where access to education and health care is limited, making it difficult for women and girls to escape poverty.

GAF’s Innovative Solutions and Interventions 

The Grace Agbonlahor Foundation (GAF) is a nongovernmental organization (NGO) dedicated to equipping women and girls in Nigeria with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive. GAF addresses the challenges Nigerian women face through two core programs: the MarketCare program and the Girls in Career Boost (GCB) program.

The MarketCare Program

Inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of Madam Grace Agbonlahor, this program focuses on empowering market women. It offers:

  • Financial Literacy Training: Program participants receive basic financial education to help them manage and grow their businesses.
  • Health Education and Insurance: GAF provides affordable health insurance and essential health education to participants.
  • Cash Grants: The program offers participants with cash grants to support their businesses and improve their financial resilience.

The GCB Program

The GCB program introduces young girls to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, providing:

  • Mentorship from female STEM professionals who guide and inspire girls to pursue non-traditional careers.
  • Hands-on workshops that equip girls with the skills needed to excel in STEM subjects and career fields. This program helps bridge the gender gap in education by encouraging more girls to explore STEM careers and access higher education opportunities.

Impacts and Success Stories

Although GAF is still in its early stages, the MarketCare Program has already enrolled 33 women in its pilot phase. Through partnerships with WellaHealth and First Choice Investment, the program provides women with health education, access to affordable health insurance, financial literacy training and cash grants to boost their businesses. This holistic approach empowers women to achieve financial independence and better health outcomes for themselves and their families.

The GCB program recently launched its foundation phase. At least 10 young girls aged 10-14 will be enrolled in the first cycle of STEM training and mentorship. With support from MidTown Tech Hub and GCB ambassadors (volunteer STEM mentors), these girls will receive tailored mentorship, hands-on training and educational support to inspire them to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Conclusion

The Grace Agbonlahor Foundation is making a tangible difference in the lives of women and girls in Nigeria. Through financial literacy, health education and career mentorship programs, GAF is helping to break the cycle of poverty and promote gender equality. By equipping women and girls with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed, the organization is fostering sustainable development in some of Nigeria’s most underserved communities.

– Staff Report
Photo: Flickr

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PDF-Africa Addresses Gender Inequality and Youth Unemployment

PDF-AfricaAccording to the United Nations’ (U.N.) latest global gender gap index, Nigeria ranks 130 out of 162 countries in the gender inequality index. Many women, particularly those in rural areas, are being denied access to education and employment, unlike their male counterparts. Additionally, youth unemployment remains high in Nigeria, with more than 50% of young people either unemployed or underemployed, contributing significantly to poverty. Furthermore, PWDs face systemic barriers to education, employment and health care, further deepening impoverishment across communities.

Preston Development Foundation

Preston Development Foundation (PDF-Africa) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the lives and well-being of individuals, especially women, young adults and PWDs, through sustainable and strategic initiatives. With a mission rooted in sustainable and impactful societal change, the organization focuses on four strategic pillars: Education, Health, Gender Equality and Financial Inclusion. These issues require a multi-faceted strategic methodology. Thus, PDF-Africa adopts a holistic, community-centered approach to tackling challenges in education, health, gender equality and financial inclusion. Its methodology is anchored in collaboration, sustainability and empowerment, focusing on community-driven solutions that encourage individuals and stakeholders to take an active role in community development.

The significance of PDF-Africa works lies in the widespread impact of these changes. Limited access to education, inadequate health, gender discrimination and financial exclusion continue to hinder the progress of vulnerable groups across Nigeria and Africa as a whole. By developing tailored interventions in these areas, PDF-Africa seeks to bridge these gaps, create equitable opportunities and improve overall quality of life. Through a holistic approach, the organization empowers individuals through capacity building and skill acquisition. PDF-Africa aims to help them break free from cycles of poverty and marginalization, fostering long-term development and resilience.

A Combination of Approaches

PDF-Africa implements targeted programs such as training, health education programs and digital literacy programs to address gaps and increase employment opportunities and career choice pathways for adolescents. In addition, the organization conducts public awareness campaigns and outreaches to raise awareness and increase knowledge gain, ensuring that individuals and the community are well-informed to act and make informed decisions.

By utilizing a combination of approaches, PDF-Africa not only addresses the issues in society but also empowers individuals and communities to thrive, act and make informed decisions for themselves. This approach enables PDF-Africa to drive sustainable change within the communities it serves.

Improving Lives

Through targeted interventions in health, education and empowerment, PDF-Africa has made significant strides in improving the lives and well-being of women. These initiatives include enhancing functional literacy, providing young adolescent girls with menstrual hygiene products and awareness and offering training to boost digital literacy in today’s evolving world. As a result, PDF-Africa is expanding opportunities and increasing employability rates among its beneficiaries.

In recent years, PDF-Africa has made strides in expanding access to STEM education for women and girls of color. It has reached more than 180 participants through initiatives like the Yan Matan Arewa Hackathon Initiative and Search Engine Training. Through partnerships with individuals, public schools and tech companies, PDF-Africa has provided participants with resources, materials, computers and financial support to enhance their learning experience and open pathways in STEM fields.

Additionally, PDF-Africa has made a significant impact on the lives and health of girls and women in vulnerable communities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Between 2018 and 2024, PDF-Africa reached more than 4,000 young women and girls across 10 secondary schools and Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Abuja, providing essential support and resources. In 2023, the nonprofit organization extended its efforts beyond distributing menstrual hygiene products to include educational campaigns in schools lacking menstrual health knowledge.

Conclusion

PDF-Africa’s comprehensive, community-centered approach is making strides in reducing gender inequality, improving youth employment prospects and fostering inclusion for marginalized groups in Nigeria. Through targeted interventions in education, health, gender equality and financial inclusion, PDF-Africa empowers individuals and communities to break cycles of poverty and marginalization. By equipping women, young adults and PWDs with the skills and resources they need to thrive, the initiative is not only enhancing lives but also driving long-term, sustainable development across Nigeria.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

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Variant Poliovirus Outbreaks and Vaccination rates in Yemen

vaccination rates in YemenYemen, a West Asian country with a population of 40 million, has seen a troubling decline in polio immunization rates. While Yemen was polio-free before 2020, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), national polio immunization coverage dropped from 58% in 2022 to 43% in 2023. This decrease reflects the fragility of Yemen’s health system amid ongoing social, political and security crises. Over the past three years, health officials have reported 273 cases of variant poliovirus outbreaks, a situation exacerbated by the humanitarian crisis and falling vaccination rates in Yemen.

Global Health in Yemen

According to USAID, 19.7 million people in Yemen do not have access to basic health services. In Yemen, only 52% of health facilities are fully functional and most of these lack equipment, essential medicines and specialist physicians—a slight improvement from 2014, when only 46% of health facilities were partially functional. The mortality rate for children under 5 stands at 41.3 deaths per 1,000 births. The deteriorating state of the health care system has facilitated the re-emergence of preventable diseases like polio. UNICEF and WHO are actively collaborating with the country’s health systems to improve these conditions. Furthermore, more than 17 million people in Yemen struggle with food insecurity and 4.5 million are internally displaced due to ongoing violence, economic crises and recurring outbreaks of disease exacerbated by climate events, contributing to the near collapse of the country’s health care infrastructure.

UNICEF Vaccinations 

UNICEF announced a second round of oral polio vaccines for 1.3 million children under the age of 5 from July 15 to July 17, 2024, following a successful first round in Feb. that reached 1.2 million children. In collaboration with WHO and Yemen’s Ministry of Public Health and Population, the organization also distributed vitamin A supplements to boost children’s natural immunity against diseases. The immunization campaign targets 12 southern governorates and 120 districts, with approximately 9,000 health workers trained for house-to-house vaccination. This effort is a response to a polio outbreak that left 257 children paralyzed.

Health Initiatives

Peter Hawkins, the UNICEF representative to Yemen, stated that eradication of diseases is achievable if every child receives vaccinations against poliovirus and other preventable diseases. In collaboration with various partners and organizations, UNICEF is pushing forward the Big Catch-up initiative, aiming to restore and accelerate routine vaccines and immunization services missed during COVID-19. Additionally, health partners and authorities have initiated the Health Emergency Expansion Resource (HEER) initiative to extend integrated primary health care services, including vaccinations, to address polio and measles outbreaks.

Looking Ahead

Collaborative efforts by global health organizations are essential to restoring Yemen’s health care system and halting the spread of preventable diseases. Recent campaigns and health initiatives demonstrate a concerted push to increase vaccination rates in Yemen and enhance primary care access for millions. As these initiatives progress, they offer renewed hope for improving the resilience of Yemen’s health care infrastructure and protecting vulnerable populations, especially young children, from further outbreaks.

– Indira Smith

Indira is based in Manchester, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr