Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

, ,

GPEI Eliminating Polio: Ongoing Efforts and Future Challenges

GPEI Eliminating Polio: Ongoing Efforts and Future ChallengesSince launching the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988, the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and several other international organizations have worked tirelessly to eliminate poliovirus. As of Oct. 2023, cases due to wild poliovirus have decreased by more than 99% since 1988, from an estimated 350,000 cases in more than 125 endemic countries, to just two endemic countries.

Polio Aftermath

There is no consensus on the number of polio survivors experiencing the effects of paralytic polio; however, estimates from 2014 suggest about 20 million people are affected. Most of these cases occur in countries where polio remains endemic or has only recently been eradicated, such as Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria.

Research indicates that most individuals living with paralytic polio reside in rural, low-income and isolated communities. A 2019 study found that nearly 80% of polio survivors develop post-polio symptoms, which can lead to chronic medical issues if not addressed. Apart from local community support groups, these survivors have limited resources to aid their rehabilitation and recovery. Consequently, due to this lack of resources, polio survivors often must manage their chronic post-polio or paralytic polio symptoms on their own. This combination of isolation and limited access to medical care creates a poverty spiral that is incredibly difficult to break.

GPEI and Polio Eradication

UNICEF received funding to support vaccinations for 370 million children worldwide. Recently, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) enhanced its relationship with Pakistan, boosting funding and resources to eliminate polio in the nation’s endemic regions.

In 2024, Luxembourg and Japan pledged significant funds toward the global eradication of polio. In May, authorities officially ended two wild poliovirus outbreaks in Malawi and Mozambique. Amid these successes, there is a growing need to focus more on polio survivors and the needs of individuals beyond vaccination. The effort to eliminate polio is incomplete until all those affected by polio, especially survivors who will never fully recover, receive the proper medical and social care necessary to ensure their quality of life and safety.

Current Support Systems

While many polio support and survival groups exist, most primarily function as support networks and often lack the resources to provide extensive post-polio disability care, although some can finance care in certain instances. When these groups do offer medical assistance, it typically comes from volunteer medical professionals who face challenges due to insufficient funding and equipment, much like the Turkish Polio Society.

Most major relief organizations focusing on global polio eradication develop infrastructure to distribute vaccines to as many people as possible. Historically, polio disability care centers have primarily been established for high-income populations in wealthy nations like France and the United States (U.S.) However, there is minimal effort to establish similar care centers in regions with higher rates of polio-related disabilities, where medical and social support could have the greatest impact.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to eradicate polio have made significant strides, with UNICEF securing funding to vaccinate 370 million children in 2024 and additional pledges from Luxembourg and Japan. However, addressing the long-term needs of polio survivors, especially in regions with limited medical access, remains crucial. Comprehensive support systems could ensure the well-being and quality of life for those affected by the aftermath of polio.

– Jamie Sackett

Jamie is based in Hutto, TX, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

How Green Finance is Reducing Poverty in Southeast Asia

Poverty in Southeast AsiaGreen finance involves financial investments into sustainable development projects, such as renewable energy initiatives and eco-friendly infrastructure developments that aim to minimize environmental risks, promote sustainability and also help to reduce poverty in Southeast Asia. In Southeast Asia, sustainable development is reflected through various national and regional initiatives, including the ASEAN Catalytic Green Finance Facility (ACGF) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Renewable Energy Initiatives

Renewable energy projects are a major part of green finance in Southeast Asia. These projects create long-term energy from renewable sources. They reduce carbon emissions, create jobs and promote energy security, such as expanding solar farms in the Philippines. The country has used its abundance of sunlight to develop large-scale solar farms. These projects are supported by green finance mechanisms that attract investments from both public and private sectors.

Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture is another area where green finance is making an impact. Projects that promote eco-friendly farming practices and support small-scale farmers help improve food security and livelihoods but also reduce environmental degradation and climate change. In countries like Vietnam and Thailand, green finance initiatives have included organic farming, agroforestry and sustainable technologies.

Solar Farms in the Philippines

The Philippines has become a leading influence in solar energy development in Southeast Asia. The country’s solar farms, such as the Cadiz Solar Power Plant, are great examples of successful green projects. The Cadiz Solar Power Plant, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, has a capacity of 132.5 megawatts and provides clean energy to more than 167,000 households. By providing reliable and affordable energy, these projects were able to improve the quality of life in rural areas, where access to electricity was limited. Additionally, with the amount of construction and maintenance of solar farms, numerous jobs were created, contributing to local economic development.

Eco-Friendly Infrastructure in Indonesia

Indonesia has also made strides in green finance for sustainable infrastructure development. Its focus is creating an eco-friendly environment with projects like the Green Bond Initiative, which finances green buildings, waste management systems and sustainable transport solutions. The Greater Jakarta Light Rail Transit (LRT), one of the projects, is the development of eco-friendly public transportation systems in Jakarta. The goal is to reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions. The Green Bond Initiative in Indonesia has not only attracted investments but also generated employment opportunities and improved urban living conditions, reducing poverty in Southeast Asia. 

Sustainable Fisheries in Brunei

Brunei has implemented initiatives aimed at conserving marine biodiversity while trying to protect fishing communities. By promoting responsible fishing practices and investing in sustainable technologies, these projects ensure the long-term availability of marine resources. Financial support from green finance initiatives enables small-scale fishers to adopt sustainable methods, securing their livelihoods and improving food security. The ASEAN Catalytic Green Finance Facility (ACGF) supports such initiatives, providing funding and technical assistance to these projects. 

Project Selection Criteria

The selection of these projects is based on their potential environmental and socio-economic benefits. Renewable energy projects, such as solar farms, are chosen to provide clean energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create jobs. Sustainable agriculture projects are selected for their capacity to enhance food security, promote sustainable farming practices and improve people’s livelihoods.

Implementation and Impact

The implementation of green finance projects in Southeast Asia involves project planning, financing and monitoring. Financial institutions, such as the ADB and the World Bank, provide technical assistance and funding to support the execution of these projects. The involvement of local communities is also crucial for varying reasons from gaining support to extra financing. 

Green finance is becoming a crucial part of poverty reduction in Southeast Asia by creating jobs, improving access to essential services and improving the economy. Investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly infrastructure are providing numerous employment opportunities, increasing incomes and reducing the cost of living. As Southeast Asia continues to develop sustainably, its future potentially looks greener.

– Danica Lourdu Nelson

Danica is based in Parker, CO, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

USAID Pledges $176 Million to Combat Poverty in West Africa

USAID Pledges $176 Million to Combat Insecurity in West AfricaThe West Africa region is grappling with significant challenges, including food insecurity and economic instability. These challenges severely affect the quality of life, especially among vulnerable communities. As of April 2024, Mali, a nation steeped in conflict, faces acute food shortages. An estimated 2,600 people are at risk of severe starvation daily.

In Northern Nigeria, about 31% of women aged 15 to 49 suffer from acute malnutrition. Additionally, predictions indicate that around 55 million people in West and Central Africa could experience food insecurity during the lean season from June to August 2024. Furthermore, in West Africa, eight out of 10 children between 6 to 23 months old do not receive the minimum required food intake for healthy growth and development. In response, countries worldwide are pledging aid and support to those struggling with poverty in West Africa.

The U.S. Provides Aid to West Africa

On May 28, 2024, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced it would provide an additional $176 million in humanitarian aid to West Africa. This funding aims to address the region’s severe security challenges and assist vulnerable communities. This contribution follows a previous allocation of $150 million on March 16, 2023. Funds were allocated to countries in West and Central Africa and the Sahel region. The funding supported refugees and internally displaced persons with health care and nutritional services through the State Department’s Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration (PRM). USAID’s efforts in West Africa are coordinated with United Nations (U.N.) agencies, including the World Food Programme (WFP) and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), to facilitate USAID’s humanitarian assistance.

Details of USAID’s $176 Million Aid

USAID’s $176 million in foreign aid to West Africa encompasses food and nutritional support as well as health care services. In 2022, for example, USAID’s regional office in the Sahel provided emergency food assistance to about 1.8 million vulnerable individuals in Chad. Furthermore, they constructed 70 shelters for those displaced by local conflicts. Additionally, in Burkina Faso, this office facilitated pregnancy, natal and neonatal health care for roughly 405,000 mothers and their newborns. This support is crucial. More than 370 health care facilities in Burkina Faso were at risk of closure by February 2024 due to ongoing conflict between the government and armed rebels. This situation has left approximately 3.5 million people in urgent need of health care services. These ongoing efforts underscore the significance of the United States’ (U.S.) recent relief efforts in West Africa, where many countries face crises similar to those in Burkina Faso.

How U.N. Agencies Utilize Aid Funds

USAID’s $176 million foreign aid package to West Africa includes funding for U.N. agencies to help address critical issues like food insecurity and health care access in the region. For instance, between July 2022 and January 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) in Mali supported approximately 75,000 people in the Menaka region. The organization provided medical and nutritional assistance, including treating 1,034 malnourished children. Additionally, these funds enable the World Food Programme (WFP) to continue airlifting food to countries such as Burkina Faso. More than 1.2 million displaced individuals have benefited from these ongoing efforts. This underscores the vital role U.N. agencies play in ensuring that international aid is effectively utilized to support vulnerable populations.

Looking Ahead

West Africa faces ongoing challenges of food insecurity and economic instability, affecting millions of vulnerable people. USAID’s $176 million aid aims to reduce poverty in West Africa by providing essential food and health care support. Collaborating with U.N. agencies, this initiative strives to alleviate the severe conditions in the region, underscoring the necessity for continuous international assistance.

– Abdullah Dowaihy

Abdullah is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Understanding the Humanitarian Crisis in Burkina Faso

Understanding the Humanitarian Crisis in Burkina FasoBurkina Faso, located in West Africa, has a population known as the Burkinabe. This former French colony declared its independence in 1960. Originally named Upper Volta, the country adopted its current name in 1984. Its population is estimated at 23.6 million.

Although Burkina Faso faces a severe humanitarian crisis, the country also boasts rich cultural diversity that deserves recognition. Home to more than 60 ethnic groups, each with its customs, languages and practices, Burkina Faso celebrates a vibrant cultural heritage anchored in traditional music and dance.

Burkina Faso Economic Challenges

Burkina Faso’s population is unevenly distributed, with half of its people living in the eastern and central regions. More than two-thirds of the Burkinabe reside in rural areas, primarily near the country’s center. Economic challenges, exacerbated by poor weather and severe droughts, have driven many residents to emigrate. As a result, Burkina Faso is considered one of the world’s poorest countries and heavily relies on humanitarian aid from foreign nations and NGOs. The country exports gold, livestock, sugar and fruit. Despite the generally poor state of public health, the government has achieved notable progress in preventing and treating HIV/AIDS since the early 2000s, with a declining rate of HIV/AIDS cases.

Educational and Social Welfare Issues

In Burkina Faso, only 33% of the population is literate. In response, the country has introduced after-school tutoring at community centers and offers adolescents training in mechanics, hairdressing, sewing, gardening and farm work. Public education in Burkina Faso is not freely provided and many parents struggle to afford schooling for their children. Additionally, a shortage of schools means that even families who can afford it often struggle to find available educational opportunities. As a result, only 81% of students advance to the 5th grade.

More than 40% of Burkina Faso’s population lives below the national poverty line, placing the country 184th out of 191 in the United Nations (U.N.) Development Programme’s 2021-2022 Human Development Index (HDI) report. Although extreme poverty decreased by 0.7% in 2023, about 2 million citizens remain displaced and face food insecurity.

Crisis and Humanitarian Aid for Burkina Faso

Since 2019, Burkina Faso has faced a severe refugee crisis. In the past year alone, an additional 707,000 citizens have become displaced and thousands have lost access to aid. By early 2023, more than 6,100 schools had closed, accounting for nearly half of all school closures in Central and West Africa. Additionally, up to 400 health facilities shut down, leaving 3.6 million people without access to health care—a 70% increase from 2022.

Emergency Aid and International Assistance

In May 2024, the US announced it would provide nearly $55 million to Burkina Faso to help address its ongoing humanitarian crisis. This aid is intended to meet the food and nutrition needs of the most vulnerable Burkinabe citizens. Within Burkina Faso, 20 locations home to half a million people are isolated from the rest of the country and in 2023, fewer than 5,000 of these residents received international aid from nongovernmental organizations. Only two-thirds of the funds allocated to Burkina Faso have been disbursed, mainly because high costs make it challenging to assist those in more isolated areas. Additionally, due to limited financial resources, organizations often prioritize helping those who are more accessible, leaving those in cut-off areas further deprived of sustainable living conditions and basic needs.

Impact of Climate and Economic Challenges

Burkina Faso’s location makes it highly susceptible to drought and climate change. The country is also struggling with ongoing economic challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, the USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance allocated $43 million to Burkina Faso to support food and nutrition assistance. This aid included food supplies, locally procured produce, and food vouchers.

European Union’s Commitment to Aid

Projected statistics for 2024 indicated that up to 27% of Burkina Faso’s population would need humanitarian aid. In 2023, the European Union (EU) allocated 44 million Euros to assist the country. These funds are targeting the food crisis and focusing on malnutrition, health, nutrition, shelter, water, sanitation, hygiene, education and rapid response to displacements. This aid aimed to support vulnerable, internally displaced people by providing them with food, shelter and essential items to meet their basic needs. Additionally, the EU provided educational support in areas where schools had closed. The EU offered guidance on preparing for climate-related issues tied to the country’s location.

Looking Ahead

The humanitarian crisis in Burkina Faso presents ongoing challenges, with significant portions of the population facing food insecurity, inadequate health care and educational disruptions. Recent international aid efforts, including substantial contributions from the U.S. and the EU, aim to address these critical needs. However, reaching isolated and vulnerable communities remains a significant hurdle. Continued and enhanced support can potentially improve living conditions and foster sustainable development in the region.

– Brogan Dickson

Brogan is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

The Home-Grown School Feeding Program in Eswatini

The Home-Grown School Feeding Program in EswatiniThe World Food Programme (WFP) and the Eswatini government launched the Home-Grown School Feeding program, which has enabled schools to start growing their food. This initiative reduces the burden on local farmers and involves organizations like the Center of Financial Inclusion, which supports women and child farmers. The program has enhanced food security, empowered women in Eswatini and boosted the local economy by sourcing directly from area farmers, thus increasing their financial stability.

Impact on Children and Food Security

The Home-Grown School Feeding Program, a joint initiative between the World Bank and the Eswatini government, enhances meal availability for schoolchildren, many of whom experience hunger. This program enables local farmers to provide food directly to schools and compensates them for their produce. Additionally, several schools have initiated their gardens to supplement the students’ food supply. The program ensures that children receive nutritious meals at school, offering stable and reliable food sources for those who might otherwise go hungry. This initiative not only bolsters food security for children but also alleviates the burden on families, who can be confident that their children are well-fed during the school day.

Supporting Local Farmers and the Economy

The Home-Grown School Feeding Program collaborates with local farmers to supply food and crops to schools, ensuring children receive nutritious meals. The program purchases these crops, offering farmers a reliable market and financial security. This arrangement significantly reduces the farmers’ transportation costs and emotional stress. According to the farmers participating in the program, they not only experience financial stability but also enjoy higher profits. They receive more favorable payments from the program compared to other buyers, such as the National Maize Corporation.

Empowering Women and Youth

The Home-Grown School Feeding Program also concentrates on creating jobs for youths and women, thereby enhancing the economy by introducing more skilled workers and increasing income through wages. Researchers have long studied the link between job creation and economic growth and Eswatini exemplifies this connection. In addition, the program has significantly benefited women farmers by collaborating with the Eswatini government to enhance support for female agricultural producers involved in the school feeding initiative. Facilitated by the Center for Financial Inclusion, this partnership has fostered a positive relationship between local women farmers and the government. Through this interaction, women farmers have received training in business and finance and have been equipped with various technologies. These tools help them navigate the challenging climate, boosting their farming productivity and efficiency.

Looking Ahead

The Home-Grown School Feeding Program in Eswatini represents a sustainable approach to enhancing food security and boosting local economies. By sourcing food from local farmers and involving women and youth in agricultural activities, the program fosters community resilience and economic growth. This collaboration between the World Food Programme and the Eswatini government continues to provide essential support for schoolchildren, farmers and the broader community.

– Paige Tamasi

Paige is based in Los Gatos, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

, ,

SISRI: Preparing Island Nations for Natural Disaster Response

SISRI: Preparing Island Nations for Natural Disaster ResponseThe Small Island States Resilience Initiative (SISRI), funded by the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery and the World Bank, seeks to decrease the effects of natural disasters on small island nations, which are particularly vulnerable to such events. Natural disasters significantly contribute to global poverty. Preventionweb notes that impoverished individuals tend to live in hazard-prone areas and lack the resources to invest in measures that reduce risks. Consequently, people in these areas often lack adequate insurance and social protection, meaning their limited assets are usually spent trying to recover from the last natural disaster.

Global Impact of Natural Disasters on Poverty

Preventionweb reports that of the approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide at risk of or exposed to flooding, 89% reside in low to middle-income countries. Drought is one of the most severe causes of poverty globally, particularly in small island nations. Other significant risks include the previously mentioned flooding and tropical storms. These are among the deadliest and most severe natural disasters, posing the greatest threat and highest risk of poverty.

Loss of life is the primary consequence of these  ongoing issues, but other risks include injuries, home damage, loss of livelihood, displacement, health implications and food insecurity, among others. The Small Island States Resilience Initiative addresses these challenges. This initiative responds to calls from small islands for more support in mitigating climate change and natural disaster risks that significantly affect their populations, assets, ecosystems and economies.

Goals and Strategies of SISRI

The primary goal of the SISRI is to alleviate the risks and reduce the burdens that natural disasters often impose. The project focuses on protecting coastal areas, establishing safety nets for citizens and providing expert assistance in assessing flood and landslide risks. SISRI also supports these nations in constructing safer infrastructure. Additionally, it fosters a global community where island practitioners can share and access worldwide knowledge on risk management.

Small island states are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters. For instance, countries experiencing the highest losses from these disasters include small island nations, which account for more than 60% of such cases. These losses can represent up to 9% of a small island nation’s GDP. Moreover, in the last 50 years, Pacific island nations have incurred more than $3 billion in damages from natural disasters. Despite these ongoing challenges, initiatives like the Small Island States Resilience Initiative, coupled with external support, can significantly impact these regions.

Implementation and Achievements of SISRI

SISRI is enhancing the resilience of small island nations by building larger pipelines for investments that can withstand climate change impacts. This initiative focuses on increasing these areas’ capacity to adapt to extreme weather events. There are three main goals SISRI aims to achieve: helping small island nations document climate finance assistance, increasing the scale and efficiency of investments and upscaling and consolidating support to shift from fragmented smaller projects to broader national initiatives that deliver more significant results.

SISRI leverages the expertise of a broader team from GFDRR and the World Bank to provide technical and operational advice. These experts address project bottlenecks and launch new investments that enhance flood and landslide risk assessments, develop safer infrastructure and strengthen social and financial safety nets. For example, in Jamaica, SISRI is protecting vulnerable coastal zones by integrating existing coastal defenses, such as seawalls and mangroves.

Using a practitioner network, SISRI connects practitioners to share knowledge and experience, enhancing resilience on small islands. Several meetings with support groups have already occurred, including the 2018 Understanding Risk Forum in Mexico City and the 2017 Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in Cancun. These gatherings aim to better educate small island nations on optimal risk management strategies for natural disasters.

Through SISRI, the World Bank aims to enhance enabling environments and stakeholder capacity and to prepare proposals, projects and pipelines. While this initiative significantly supports small island nations in combating poverty and recovering from natural disasters, which often devastate economies and lives, more efforts are necessary to ensure these communities can recover and thrive after such events.

Looking Ahead

Currently, SISRI operates in East Asia, the Pacific and Sub-Saharan Africa, assisting about 37 countries. The Initiative plays a vital role in enhancing the resilience of vulnerable island nations against natural disasters. By focusing on protecting coastal areas, improving infrastructure and providing technical assistance, SISRI aims to mitigate the severe impacts of these events. Continued support and investment in these ongoing initiatives could safeguard communities and promote sustainable recovery and development.

– Lachlan Wellington

Lachlan is based in Fareham, Hampshire, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

, ,

Investing in R&D for Diseases in Africa

Diseases in AfricaThe world has become a global village and events in one part of it affect everyone in many ways. Depending on the event, the effects can be good or bad. The African continent is of immense significance. Neglected diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, malaria and other tropical diseases are not just problems in Africa; they are global challenges. Africa currently accounts for 20% of the global disease burden and that means both the loss of 630 million lives and $2.4 trillion in economic value yearly.

The United States (U.S.), as a global leader, holds a key position in global health security. It can further strengthen this position by allocating investments in Africa, particularly in research and development (R&D) for these diseases. This strategic move will contribute to global health and boost the U.S. economy, creating new jobs and fostering innovation. Recent research published by the Global Health Technologies Coalition (GHTC) has proven that investment from the U.S. can impact not only global health but also boost the U.S. economy.

The US Investments in Health R&D in Africa

The U.S. investments are vital to supporting the development of new drugs for diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, HIV and Ebola, which are among the most pressing health challenges in Africa and globally. For instance, U.S. investment in the development of antiretroviral drugs has significantly reduced the mortality rate of HIV/AIDS in Africa, saving millions of lives. This is a testament to the potential impact of the U.S. investments in health R&D in Africa.

In the last two decades, the U.S. has invested $46 billion in R&D for neglected diseases like HIV, malaria, tuberculosis and other health issues. In 2022, this investment was 0.21% of its gross domestic product (GDP). The investment helped develop 12 products for tuberculosis and 11 for malaria. The development of Pretomanid has revolutionized tuberculosis treatment. It also works for drug-resistant cases, reducing the treatment duration from 18 months to 6 months. Using it for all drug-resistant cases can save up to $740 million annually.

Two drugs, Cabotegravir and Dapvirine, developed with U.S. investments, have the potential to revolutionize HIV prevention and treatment. Many other products against different diseases are in the pipeline, also developed with the country’s investment.

Boosting the US Economy

These investments have boosted the U.S. economy and benefited U.S. companies and people in more ways than one might think. Here are some key points describing how these investments have contributed to the growth of the U.S. economy:

  • Investments in R&D for diseases have created 600,000 jobs in the U.S. 
  • The investments resulted in an additional $104 billion in the U.S. economy.
  • The investments on the governmental level have enhanced private sector investments in R&D for global health as well and $1 will result in an additional $8 investment in the private sector. These figures imply that the U.S. economy will ultimately gain an investment advantage of $102 billion.

These investments will result in future products worth $255 billion, further boosting the U.S. economy.

Final Thoughts

The U.S. has financial power and moral authority globally. More investment in R&D for diseases can improve life expectancy in Africa, strengthen the economies of partner countries, boost the U.S. economy and protect Americans’ health. The world has become a global village and diseases can spread quickly, creating a potential danger for everyone. Cases of malaria and leprosy have emerged in the U.S. in the recent past.

R&D of treatments and prevention products can help control the emergence of diseases in the U.S. and globally secure the financial future of thousands of Americans through jobs and boost a strong U.S. economy. In our current circumstances, allocating resources toward R&D for diseases in Africa is crucial. This investment can revitalize the U.S. economy during these challenging times.

– Maria Waleed

Maria is based in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

, ,

Tackling Global Water Scarcity: Innovations and Challenges

Tackling Global Water Scarcity: Innovations and ChallengesCurrently, more than 2 billion people worldwide lack access to safely managed drinking water. Furthermore, 3.6 billion lack access to sanitation services. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reports that diarrhea-related diseases, cause about 480,000 deaths annually among children under 5. These deaths are preventable through simple sanitation, proper hygiene and access to safe water. Due to insufficient resources, many communities face high disease and mortality rates. The United Nations (U.N.) World Water Development Report’s 2023 edition warns that global water scarcity issues could potentially affect up to 2.4 billion people, doubling from 930 million, if no action is taken.

Changing Climate and Water Scarcity

The changing climate intensifies water scarcity by increasing the frequency of extreme flooding and droughts. According to the U.N., extreme drought will likely expand its coverage across the land steadily. Water-related disasters cause nearly 70% of all deaths linked to natural disasters. In the last two decades, the occurrence of flood-related disasters has increased by 134%. Asia is particularly affected, suffering significant flood-related deaths and economic losses. Simultaneously, many countries facing challenges with safe sanitation and water access also suffer from these water-based disasters, leading to deaths, economic damages and health issues due to floods and droughts.

The Condon Hydrology Lab

Laura Condon, an assistant professor at the University of Arizona, is committed to developing water sustainability tools. Leading the Condon Hydrology Lab, her research group focuses on studying the availability and sustainability of freshwater resources. As a specialist in groundwater research, she understands that watershed behaviors in today’s changing climate could unlock new solutions to water scarcity.

Laura Condon co-leads “Hydroframe,” a project that works in tandem with the “Hydrogen” modeling platform to simulate watershed system forecasts. Condon is enthusiastic about developing new methods to enhance the speed and accuracy of seasonal forecasts. She notes that the pursuit of sustainable water management has been a long-standing concern and her team at the Hydrology Lab is at the forefront of this research. By testing these innovations in America, the project aims not only to address domestic water scarcity but also to expand its impact globally, helping to alleviate water scarcity worldwide.

Looking Ahead

Ensuring access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation for billions of people could address the global water scarcity crisis. Innovations in hydrological research, such as those pioneered by Laura Condon, aim to create sustainable water management solutions. By improving the accuracy of water resource forecasts and developing effective conservation strategies, these ongoing efforts can potentially combat water scarcity and enhance resilience against the changing climate, securing vital resources for future generations.

– Hailey Nurry

Hailey is based in Pennsylvania, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault: Protecting Crop Diversity

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault: Protecting Crop DiversityIn Svalbard, Norway, deep within a mountain at 150 meters, lies a significant refrigerated vault holding more than a million crop seeds from around the globe. Regional seed banks worldwide contribute duplicates of their seeds to this repository, ensuring their secure storage. Supported by the Norwegian government, this initiative aims to safeguard biodiversity and provide a safety net against potential global crises that could threaten the food supply.

The Importance of Seed Banks

Crop diversification plays a crucial role in sustaining healthy ecosystems and enhancing agricultural resilience. It mitigates soil erosion, enriches soil health and fortifies crops against pests and diseases. By planting a variety of crops, farmers can potentially shield their livelihoods from extreme weather and other adversities, ensuring that if one crop falters, others may thrive to offset the loss. However, crop diversity has sharply declined over the last 50 years. TIME Magazine reports that merely about 30 crops now supply 95% of the nutritional needs of humans. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) adds that since 1900, there has been a staggering 95% loss in plant genetic diversity globally.

Natural disasters are the primary threat to crop diversity in developing countries. Flooding, drought, excessive heat and other unpredictable weather patterns, can wipe out entire fields of crops. The Svalbard Global Seed Vault protects crop diversity and prevents hunger by ensuring that crop species do not go extinct. The vault stores seeds and their duplicates, ensuring that agriculture can reintroduce them following catastrophic events, thus protecting global food security.

Marie Haga, executive director of the Crop Trust, an organization that operates the Svalbard Seed Vault in collaboration with the Norwegian government, emphasizes that crop diversity is essential to global livelihood: “Not too many think about crop diversity as being so fundamentally important, but it is. It is almost as important as water and air. Seeds generally as the basis for everything. Not only what we eat, but what we wear, nature all about us.” 

Seed Banks Around the World

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault collaborates with more than a thousand regional seed banks worldwide. These banks collect, freeze and store seeds from various crop species. They send duplicates of these seeds to the Svalbard vault for secure, long-term storage. Operating much like an insurance policy, the organization protects these seeds against potential regional threats such as severe weather or conflict. Svalbard safely stores the duplicates should a regional seed bank’s supplies be compromised.

The Svalbard facility’s operations are important in war-ridden regions. In 2012, the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) had to move from its location just outside of Aleppo, Syria, in 2012 when the civil war threatened the facility’s security. In Afghanistan and Iran, violent conflict destroyed seed banks, compromising seeds that had not yet been sent to Svalbard.

Svalbard’s location in Northern Norway is optimal for the global seed vault due to its cold climate, which is essential for preserving seeds at -18° Celsius. The vault’s placement of 150 meters inside a mountain offers added protection against severe weather events, including extreme cold and avalanches. Apart from these natural conditions, Svalbard’s remoteness plays a crucial role in its security, making it unlikely to be affected by international conflicts. This combination of factors effectively safeguards the seeds, providing a critical backup for global agriculture.

Looking Forward

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault plays a pivotal role in preserving global crop diversity, acting as a vital insurance policy against environmental and man-made disasters. Securing more than a million seed samples from various regions ensures the continued availability of essential crops for future generations. The Svalbard Global Seed Vault continues to expand its collection and it can hold about 4.5 million seeds. This initiative can potentially maintain agricultural resilience and secure food supplies worldwide.

– Maren Fossum-Wernick

Maren is based in St. Paul, MN, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Efforts for Improving Health Care in Nigeria

Health Care in NigeriaNigerians have faced a growing crisis in health care access in recent years. Nigeria has a population of more than 200 million people, marking it as one of the most populated countries in 2024. The country has a diverse group of people, cultures and languages. Although the country has a huge potential for widespread affluence due to its oil and natural resources, its systems are lacking in meeting the needs of all its citizens. For its health care system, as of 2023, Nigeria was ranked 157th out of 167 countries. Improvement within the system is essential for the well-being of the Nigerian people to be guaranteed.

Malaria

Malaria is a life-threatening disease found in primarily tropical countries and is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. In 2021, approximately 619,000 people died from malaria, with more than half of all malaria deaths worldwide occurring in four African countries. Nigeria’s health indicators are some of the worst in Africa. Nigeria continues to undertake the highest level of malaria cases globally, which is the leading cause of child illness and death. Professor Olubenga A. Mokuolu oversees all malaria work in the country.

In an interview, he gave one reason for Nigeria’s high malaria burden: the country’s environmental management. “In terms of environmental management, Nigeria leaves a lot to be desired. The country has open refuse sites and blocked drainage systems and because people lack piped water, they store water at home in containers. These all provide ideal sites for mosquitoes to breed.” While the number of malaria cases has gone down in recent years, they are not at a level where people can fully be at ease.

Lack of Access

Health care access in Nigeria is very limited due to factors within the health system. The Nigerian primary health care (PHC) system is the lowest level and entry point for Nigerians to receive health care services such as visitations, preventative, curative and rehabilitative services. Although initially, the PHC system was seen as a guiding policy for further health improvements, there were many flaws with its enactment.

Vivien O. Abah, a Nigerian health care researcher, stated that “The PHC system was deployed to the grassroots, but geographical access did not translate to access to health care as the populations did not utilize the majority (80%) of these facilities.” Not only was the lack of geographical access difficult but the quality of care in these primary health facilities was proven difficult for some as well.

What Is Being Done

The Nigerian health care industry has faced serious setbacks in recent years due to a lack of funding, as well as the mismanagement of creating accessible quality care for the population. This does not mean that the country has given up, as there have been various measures taken into consideration to improve the system.

In 2018, the government approved the second National Strategic Health Development Plan (SHDP), which sought to ensure all Nigerians have access to health care in the country, with a focus on preventing the trend of citizens traveling abroad for medical care. The Former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, said that the SHDP will be a transparent and accountable mechanism implemented to ensure the health of all citizens and to forbid corruption from affecting funding.

The government has also focused on individual epidemics and issues that have affected Nigerians, as its preventative measures for malaria have saved tens of thousands of lives, most of them children. The country’s health care system provides more than 25 million children aged less than 5 with preventive chemotherapy for malaria, which has considerably reduced the children’s mortality rates.

Improving Health

Improvement of the Nigerian health care system will be a long and arduous process. and its efficiency highly depends on whether or not the government prioritizes high-quality care and population outcomes. In the past, people have had tremendous trouble seeking high-quality care, with some having to leave the country to receive treatment.

Health care in Nigeria has undergone significant changes and is moving in the right direction, but there is still progress to be made. With a growing population in a country known for diseases and limited medical access, the health care system cannot currently guarantee treatment for all its citizens. 

– Oliver Martin

Oliver is based in Honolulu, HI, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay