Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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Solar Power Innovations Fuel Poverty Reduction in Libya

Solar Power in LibyaLibya is at large a topographically desert-arid country located in North Africa. It is the fourth largest country in Africa by surface area but has a population of more than 7 million people making it extraordinarily diffusely populous. Despite its controllable population, Poverty in Libya is a concern and a third of Libya’s citizens live below the poverty line. Political instability is the direct catalyst of socioeconomic inequality. Libya was once one of Africa’s wealthiest and most developed nations as recently as last decade, but unfortunately for Libyans, it feels like a whole lifetime ago. The 2011 revolution that resulted in a government overthrow has imparted an unrelenting vacuum of civil unrest, stunted economic growth and failed political transitions. For the average Libyan it has meant brooding over the most essential hygiene factors such as employment, nourishment, access to education and electricity.

Poverty in Libya and Access to Electricity

Before 2011, Libya possessed one of the highest electrification rates in Africa, however, the opposite is true now. About one-third of Libyans do not have access to electricity. The issue becomes extra fatal during the hot summer months as the “country can only meet two-thirds of peak summer demand,” causing heat strokes and a plethora of other medical emergencies to many Libyan citizens. No power means no air conditioning, a macabre combination for a country that regularly sees temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.

No air conditioning pillages small businesses in Libya too, the lifeline to every economy. For example, butchers have to dispose of meat for sale by the masses because of spoiling without electricity for freezers. No electricity increases food waste because people cannot refrigerate their food. Energy insecurity also contracts agricultural output. That issue only worsens multidimensional poverty because it increases food insecurity, with more than 38% of Libyan children under the age of 5 suffering from chronic malnutrition. 

Solar Energy Potential: A Solution to Poverty in Libya

Libya’s instabilities are comprehensive and wide-ranging. However, thanks to the country’s natural geographic state, installing solar panels could solve the issue of energy insecurity. According to Forbes, “1.2% of the Sahara desert is sufficient to cover all of the energy needs of the world.” Leveraging the Sahara desert for energy supply on an international cross-border scale is far more difficult than doing so on a national level.

Libya has the second largest share of the Sahara in Africa after Algeria and the desert covers more than 90% of Libya’s total land. Only a small fraction of that 90% could generate a surfeit of solar electric power that would provide light to 100% of Libya’s population. These stats make solar power an efficacious proposition for Libya’s energy poverty to say the absolute least. The rapid increase of solar power could rapidly decrease food poverty in Libya because it is a ubiquitously accessible and more cost-effective means to electrify homes. Higher electrification means less food waste. Solar energy is a prodigious innovation to poverty reduction in Libya.

Photovoltaic Technology in Libya

The U.S. Department of Technology explains the photovoltaic technology (PV) behind solar panel energy as follows, “When the sun shines onto a solar panel, energy from the sunlight is absorbed by the PV cells in the panel. This energy creates electrical charges that move in response to an internal electrical field in the cell, causing electricity to flow… Concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP) systems use mirrors to reflect and concentrate sunlight onto receivers that collect solar energy and convert it to heat, which can then be used to produce electricity or stored for later use. It is used primarily in very large power plants.”

Engineering solar farms to reach home electricity is not a pure plug-and-play though. “Solar energy technology does not end with electricity generation by PV or CSP systems. These solar energy systems must be integrated into homes, businesses and existing electrical grids with varying mixtures of traditional and other renewable energy sources.” Therefore, solar energy is not a replacement innovation for poverty eradication in Libya, but rather a complimentary upgrade.

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the cost of solar PV technology has decreased by roughly 90% since 2009. That is a massive reduction, but the arduous cost driver for Libya could probably lie in rebuilding its electrical grid supply. Libya has spun back into its low development phase in the past 13 years. Different militant organized crime units regularly damage electricity lines in their fighting. In January 2016, an armed attack near a Benghazi power plant left five of the city’s six transformed damaged.

Positive Examples

Organizations like the Rockefeller Foundation have recently committed $10 billion for solar power energy projects in Sierra Leone. Libya’s geographical position could help the country with its solar energy projects more than any other country in the world because it is 90% desert. Another advantage Libya has over every other developing country is its rich oil reserve supply that once exported 1.6 million barrels of oil a day. Foreign governments and private companies can certainly have a financial interest in investing in Libya’s solar farm infrastructure in exchange for a reasonable oil trade deal.

The Renewable Energy Authority of Libya (REAoL) has launched multiple solar energy projects and aims to complete them in the next few years. Energy Capital & Power reports that “UAE-based Alpha Dhabi Holding and GECOL aims to construct two additional solar plants in Libya, with a target capacity of 2 GW.” Given the fact solar energy projects in Libya are still in progress without full completion, conclusions on the impact they have had on poverty eradication in Libya cannot be made yet. The caveat all boils down to Libya establishing a firm grasp of law and order, so its infrastructure remains safe from tampering. One cannot say Libya’s energy crisis is without hope. The country’s solution is under the sun and above the soil. 

The Future of Libya

Libya is still very much in the midst of an overhaul and rebuild in the aftermath of a civil war that commenced over a decade ago. Energy poverty is a societal ailment that trickles down as a contributor to Libya’s food insecurity and children’s malnutrition. Poverty comes in many forms, hence why the term multidimensional poverty exists. Every type of poverty is intersectional. Solar power is a viable solution to widespread inaccessible electrification in Libya. Once Libya makes big strides in expanding its domestic solar power network, it could have a domino effect in reducing many other forms of poverty, especially food insecurity. 

– Danial Osmani
Photo: Flickr

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Improving the Rights of Marshallese Women

Marshallese WomenAccording to the Constitution (1979, Rev 1995) of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), “Every person has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and belief; to freedom of speech and of the press; to the free exercise of religion; to freedom of peaceful assembly and association; and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

However, according to multiple organizations canvassing for gender equality, an unacceptable degree of gender “inequality” exists for women of the RMI. The tradition of matrilineal heritage, unratified discrimination rights of Marshallese women and extensive evidence of “gender inequality” combined challenge the validity of women’s rights. Moreover, 54% of women who have encountered domestic violence refrained from reporting the incidents due to either perceiving the abuse as justified or fearing reprisal.

Furthermore, they cited reasons such as a lack of awareness about their rights, the financial implications of legal proceedings and/or the distance to access courts. Therefore, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) has stated that the Constitution of the RMI needs to be amended by including a definition of discrimination and addressing discrimination against women.

Matrilineal Tradition

The RMI is one of a few countries that maintains traditional matrilineal property systems. In this system, the property is passed down by the maternal, not the paternal line. Despite potentially having substantial land rights in the RMI, many women reside away from their ancestral land, which results in a loss of respect, influence and security, as they often relocate to their spouse’s land, away from their support networks.

Furthermore, by limiting women’s involvement in public office and electoral politics while prioritizing the education and advancement of men, commercial enterprises have marginalized women, relegating them to powerless and insignificant roles within their society.

Women’s Rights Organizations

According to the Pacific Community of the Organization of Human Rights and Social Development (HRSD), Marshallese women are entitled to equality, dignity, education and trust. The challenges of gender inequality faced by women and girls, as well as the rights of Marshallese women, remain focal points for numerous women’s organizations. Some of these organizations include:

  • United Nations (U.N.) Women in the Pacific: This group has been working with governments and nongovernmental organizations in the region to fight against gender inequality, “empower women and build more inclusive societies.”
  • Pacific Women Lead (PWL): This organization aims to ensure “Pacific women and girls are safe and equitably share in resources, opportunities and decision-making with men and boys.” Within five months of its inception, the group coordinated funding for seven projects in the Pacific.
  • Women United Together Marshall Islands (WUTMI): This is a prominent women’s organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of Marshallese women. WUTMI has played a crucial role in raising awareness about issues such as domestic violence and the prevention of substance abuse by women and girls.

Final Remark

The rights and dignity of Marshallese women are deeply rooted in both tradition and written laws. Supported by many women’s organizations, the rights of Marshallese women remain subjects of ongoing explanation, analysis and debate.

– Pamela A. Fenton
Photo: Flickr

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3 Health Care Charities In Venezuela

Health Care Charities In VenezuelaVenezuela, a country in South America, has been dealing with economic and democratic instability, which has led to millions of Venezuelans emigrating to neighboring countries. Consequently, there has been a significant reduction in trained professionals such as doctors and nurses, as well as inadequate funding for basic public health necessities. In fact, eight out of 10 Venezuelans do not have sustainable access to sanitation facilities and safe drinking water. However, issues that many Venezuelans face on a day-to-day basis are being combatted with the help of these three health care charities in Venezuela that provide efficient and life-changing care in the country.

Healing Venezuela

Healing Venezuela became a registered nongovernmental organization (NGO) in 2016 and provided several sustainable health care programs to help all sectors of society. Due to Venezuela’s current medical instability, Healing Venezuela has provided an allowance and sponsored junior doctors working in seven different hospitals around the country. This helps cover junior doctors’ expenses and makes it easier to see their patients without financial burdens.

In 2023 alone, up to 100 junior doctors were sponsored, which contributed toward the treatment of more than 120,000 Venezuelan patients. Helping Venezuela also advocates for women’s reproductive health by offering free contraceptive and sexual health devices to women as well as training doctors to specialize and perform portable ultrasounds in state hospitals. The initiative aims to improve the medical space in Venezuela by supporting and training doctors to help patients in need who are facing limited medical resources.

Cuatro Por Venezuela Foundation

Another one of the health care charities in Venezuela making a difference is Cuatro Por Venezuela. This foundation, formed in 2016, works and partners alongside other existing organizations to reach the needs of people in Venezuela by developing programs and sharing resources. The Cuatro Por Venezuela Foundation partnered with another organization in order to provide sustainable medication for Venezuelans who have epilepsy but do not have access to adequate treatment.

In 2021, up to 622 patients received seizure medication for the whole year in six areas in Venezuela. The foundation also has an ongoing program that gives children in rural areas three nutritious meals a day. Between 2021 and 2022, the organization provided 75,300 meals to people in the village of Camblanche in Eastern Venezuela, helping 60 children and 420 family members in the rural community.

Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps is a global group of humanitarians who all share the aim to “alleviate suffering, poverty and oppression by helping people build secure, productive and just communities.” This humanitarian team has been working in Venezuela since 2018 and has made considerable efforts to support hospitals by donating important medical equipment. In fact, in 2022, Mercy Corps donated more than 50,000 items, such as syringes and surgical gloves.

Currently, there has been a rise in maternal and infant mortality rates, whereby nine out of 10 pregnant women in Venezuela lack access to medical care. In response, Mercy Corps encourages qualified specialists such as doctors and nurses to stay and work in Venezuelan state hospitals, particularly neonatal intensive care units, by offering financial incentives. Mercy Corps proves to be effective in its aim to “alleviate suffering” by expanding medical access to many in Venezuela.

– Zaynab Yusuf

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

Photo: UNICEF

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5 Ways Cell Phones Transform Fishing in the Pacific Islands

5 Ways Cell Phones Transform Fishing in the Pacific Islands Fish are a valuable commodity in the Pacific Islands, making up to 90% of animal protein consumption and a significant portion of income generation in coastal villages. In terms of income generation, the advent of widespread cell phone coverage presents a promising opportunity for the region’s efforts toward poverty alleviation and economic advancement through fishing activities. However, only 38% of Pacific Islanders have access to a mobile phone subscription, contributing to poverty rates as high as 52.2% in Papua New Guinea. The following is an outline of five key ways that increasing mobile phone subscriptions could aid poverty alleviation through fishing in the Pacific Islands.

Access to Market Information

Facilitating access to market information is one of the most pivotal avenues through which phone coverage enhances fishing in the Pacific Islands. This assertion is strongly supported by Robert Jensen’s seminal research paper “The Digital Provide.” Jensen’s study, conducted in the densely populated fishing region of Kerala, India, revealed that with the adoption of cell phones, approximately one-third of fishermen expanded their market reach beyond their local catchment area.

This expansion coincided with a significant reduction in fish wastage, plummeting from 8% to 0%. The change was caused by newfound access to real-time market data afforded by mobile phones, enabling fishermen to stay abreast of supply and demand dynamics in nearby markets. Consequently, Jensen’s study underscored a tangible increase in fishermen’s profits, catalyzed by expanding cell phone coverage.

These findings suggest that similar benefits could accrue in the Pacific Islands, where increased cell phone access could enhance food production, expand economic opportunities in fishing and reduce food poverty. By leveraging existing infrastructure, such as the Western Pacific Fisheries Information Network Data Portal, fishermen can explore new markets, augmenting overall productivity and mitigating financial poverty and food insecurity.

Communication with Buyers

The expansion of cell phone access equips fishermen with a direct and streamlined communication channel to engage with individual buyers. Multiple studies underscore the significance of digital marketing in fish sales, highlighting its cost-effectiveness in reaching a broader array of potential consumers. Moreover, fostering personal connections with clients significantly enhances customer satisfaction and drives referrals. Through regular communication via cell phone with consumers, fishermen can broaden their network, facilitating waste reduction and boosting income. Consequently, this enhanced financial capacity enables investment in modern fishing equipment, thereby further optimizing operations and catalyzing economic growth and poverty reduction.

Weather Monitoring

Fishing, particularly in economically disadvantaged nations, poses significant risks due to unpredictable weather patterns and tidal fluctuations, with an estimated 100,000 fishermen losing their lives annually at sea. The expansion of cell phone coverage presents an opportunity to substantially diminish this staggering toll, primarily by granting access to real-time weather updates. This access notably reduces the likelihood of fishermen encountering perilous sailing conditions. For instance, the National Disaster Management Office of Vanuatu has pioneered an emergency SMS system to notify fishermen about impending natural disasters – a cost-effective, low-tech solution that profoundly enhances safety at sea. Moreover, temperature directly influences fish behavior and productivity.

Cell phone coverage grants fishermen access to both long-term climate forecasts and short-term weather trends, empowering them to adapt by acquiring suitable equipment for changing conditions or relocating to other catchment areas with higher yields. As a result, fishing in the Pacific Islands transforms into a safer, more profitable industry, fostering increased food production and incomes.

Access to Financial Services

Fishermen in rural or remote islands frequently encounter challenges accessing banking services, which are crucial for obtaining loans to initiate or expand fishing operations. The expansion of cell phone coverage facilitates access to online banking and microfinance institutions, offering avenues for business expansion with minimal collateral requirements. Notably, in China, microfinance initiatives within the aquaculture sector have demonstrated efficacy in poverty alleviation while also proving profitable for the firms involved. Additionally, in Haiti, mobile phone expansion resulted in a 30% increase in people gaining access to financial institutions. Extrapolating from this data, it is reasonable to anticipate similar benefits for Pacific island communities with expanded mobile phone coverage.

Government Oversight and Compliance

Illegal fishing in the Pacific accounted for the illicit harvesting of nearly 200,000 tons of tuna, valued at more than $300 million, between 2017 and 2019. Such alarming trends transcend species boundaries, jeopardizing the survival of marine populations, intensifying food insecurity and undermining the efforts of licensed purveyors. However, with the advent of mobile internet connectivity, surveillance and communication with governmental authorities are streamlined, empowering fishermen to report suspicious activities effectively.

The tangible benefits of cell phone coverage in combatting illegal fishing have already been observed in the Solomon Islands. By curbing overfishing and unsustainable practices, cell phones play a consequential role in safeguarding fishing productivity for future generations, thereby ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry. This proactive approach not only mitigates poverty and food insecurity concerns but also fosters a more resilient and prosperous fishing sector.

Ongoing Initiatives

Despite persistently low mobile subscriber penetration among Pacific Islanders, projections indicate a rapid increase, with an estimated 50% adoption by 2030. However, this rate still falls significantly below the global average of 73%. To improve penetration rates among fishermen in the region, concerted efforts from local policymakers and international investors could be crucial. Initiatives such as the Pacific Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership (DCCP) by USAID aim to enhance internet connectivity throughout Oceania. USAID-funded mobile applications, such as Hapi Fis and Hapi Pipol! (Happy Fish, Happy People!) in the Solomon Islands, provide fishermen and communities with real-time fishery management information and solutions.

Looking Ahead

The potential for mobile technology to transform the fishing industry in the Pacific Islands is vast and promising. By increasing access to market information, enhancing safety with weather updates and improving financial services, mobile phones could significantly uplift the economic status of fishermen and their communities. As coverage expands, these technologies are poised to make a profound impact on reducing poverty and increasing food security across the region.

– Matthew Candau

Matthew is based in St. Andrews, Scotland and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Urbanization in Lagos: Impacting Poverty in Nigeria

Urbanization and Its Impact on Poverty in Lagos Nigeria In 2024, the population of Lagos state, Nigeria, reached 16,536,018, marking an increase of 590,106 people over the previous year. This number reflects a 3.7% annual growth rate. The process of urbanization in Lagos, significantly increases the disparity between the wealthy and impoverished residents. While some individuals have benefitted from Lagos’ booming economy and accumulated considerable wealth, a large portion of the population live in inadequate conditions in squatter settlements like Makoko. Unfortunately, issues such as overcrowding, lack of basic amenities and poor living conditions affect these slums.

The Struggles of Slum Dwellers in Makoko

Makoko, a prominent slum in Lagos, stands on stilts above the Lagos lagoon, highlighting its residents’ precarious living situation. Most individuals living in Makoko are employed in the informal economy, earning as little as $1.25 per day, insufficient to cover their basic needs. This extreme poverty perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage and limits opportunities for economic mobility among the residents of Makoko and other similar slums in Lagos.

The Borgen Project spoke with an individual who wishes to remain anonymous for privacy reasons. The young lady, living in one of the slums in Lagos with her three children, stated, “I make nothing less than N2500 a day.” Currently, N2500 is equivalent to $1.86. She further mentioned that she only uses the money to make sure her kids have something to eat. She says, “Every day is a struggle to survive, with no end in sight to our suffering.” Living in the slums traps them in a cycle of poverty and despair. 

Urban Challenges: Poverty and Infrastructure

Urbanization, urban poverty and slums are closely linked and present significant challenges for both developed and developing countries. Nigeria, like other developing nations, faces these ongoing challenges, which have a more pronounced impact due to limited resources and rapid population growth in urban areas. Efforts to address these ongoing issues require comprehensive strategies that prioritize sustainable urban development, poverty reduction and job creation initiatives.

Over the past 50 years, rural-urban migration has been the primary driving factor of population growth in Lagos. This is primarily due to the notable advancements in social and economic development, which have fueled uncontrolled population expansion in these urban areas. This rapid growth has led to various challenges, such as strain on existing infrastructure, environmental deterioration, traffic congestion, lack of adequate housing and an increase in crime rates in Nigerian major cities.

Urban poverty drastically undermines urban sustainability in Nigeria, as the poor in cities face social exclusion, unemployment, homelessness, unpaid work, environmental risks and poor health. These hardships drive the proliferation of slums, squatters’ settlements and deteriorating housing, which are becoming permanent fixtures in Nigeria’s major cities.

The Lagos State Urban Development Policy

The Lagos State Urban Development Policy (LSUDP) is a comprehensive and holistic approach to guiding sustainable urban development in Lagos State, Nigeria. The policy is rooted in the recognition of the rapid urbanization and population growth that Lagos State, which addresses significant challenges in infrastructure, housing, transportation and social services

The LSUDP addresses the ongoing challenges by providing a long-term vision and strategic direction for developing Lagos State over the next three decades (2022-2052). The policy outlines key objectives and strategies that promote inclusive growth and development, reduce poverty and inequality, enhance residents’ quality of life and ensure sustainable resource use.

One of the core principles of the LSUDP is to create inclusive cities where all residents, regardless of their socio-economic status, can access basic services, opportunities for economic advancement, and a high quality of life. This includes policies to promote affordable housing, improve access to health care and education, enhance transportation infrastructure and protect the environment.

Furthermore, the LSUDP emphasizes the importance of sound socio-economic foundations, which are essential for sustainable development. This involves fostering economic growth, attracting investments, creating job opportunities and supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. By laying down this strong foundation, the LSUDP aims to ensure that urban development in Lagos State is sustainable, equitable and beneficial for all residents.

The LSUDP represents a strategic roadmap for the future development of Lagos State, with a focus on creating livable, inclusive and prosperous cities that can meet the needs of current and future generations.

Moving  Forward

The Lagos State Urban Development Policy promises to transform urban living conditions by addressing critical infrastructure needs and reducing inequality. By prioritizing sustainable growth and inclusive policies, Lagos is poised to enhance the quality of life for all its residents. These ongoing initiatives could help break the cycle of poverty and create a more equitable urban environment in Nigeria’s bustling metropolis.

– Oyinkansola Adewumi

Oyinkansola is based in Denver, CO, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Empowering Youth Leadership in Africa

Empowering Youth Leadership in Africa The global youth population, ages 15 to 24, currently stands at approximately 1.2 billion, with the majority residing in developing countries. Africa boasts the world’s youngest population, with 60% of its citizens under the age of 25, and a median age of about 19 years, compared to the U.S. median age of 39 years. This demographic provides African countries with unique opportunities and challenges in harnessing the potential of their youthful population, especially in empowering youth leadership.

Challenges in Low-Income African Countries

The median age of Africa’s leaders is approximately 63 years old. This age disparity underrepresents Africa’s youth population. According to Brookings, 80 million young Africans live in extreme poverty and face concerns of insufficient economic opportunities and deteriorating education systems, especially in rural areas. There are also high levels of gender inequality for young women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Young women handle the majority of household tasks such as childcare, cooking, securing water and more. This results in lower employment rates than their male counterparts. This often prevents them from obtaining an education or securing paid employment. According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), the inability of young people to secure employment, get an education or receive training, can result in present and future limitations. 

Youth Leadership

By providing opportunities for youth to actively participate in decision-making processes, it can help them feel included in their governments. The United Nations (U.N.) Under-Secretary-General, Rosemary DiCarlo, stresses that there must be more support and investments in youth as “Investing in youth is investing in peace.” She also stressed the importance of acknowleding young people’s voices and perspectives in leadership positions.

Authorities could prioritize and promote education by actively eliminating barriers, especially for women. Harmful social norms and stereotypes, such as the expectation for women to remain at home and exclusively fulfill caregiving roles, as well as the perception that women are only suited for specific professions (nurses and teachers) restrict their potential. A lack of education and training can also limit job options. 

Three Initiatives Empowering Youth Leadership

  1. Empowerment and Livelihood for Adolescents (ELA) program initiated by the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC). This program operates in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, South Sudan and Uganda. It integrates social empowerment, economic empowerment, community engagement and education. The goal is to assist young people, particularly girls and young women. These individuals often face poverty, exploitation and limited job prospects. The program helps them reach their full potential. BRAC’s youth programs help build self-confidence, critical thinking, leadership, decision-making skills and social skills. It explores gender dynamics and learns to navigate issues that may affect their health, well-being and future. Furthermore, it learns about relationships, sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, early marriage, human and legal rights and more. The ELA program facilitates sports and reading activities to build a support network. This foundation helps prepare young people to evolve into strong, resilient and flexible adults.
  2. UNICEF Youth Advocates in west and central Africa. UNICEF Youth Advocates are located worldwide and vocalize their goals of advocating and inspiring young people to help change society for the better. It informs world leaders about the problems that children face and helps others speak up for their rights. These advocates often choose a specific issue to advocate for. An example of a youth advocate is Djedje Aurélia Esther, a 16-year-old child rights advocate who represents the country Côte d’Ivoire. She is the main facilitator for the Human Rights Education and Citizenship club at her school. Additionally, she has created a board game focused on Life Skills for Peace. Aurélia is currently vice-coordinator of the national platform of children’s organizations in Côte d’Ivoire helping protect children’s rights.
  3. Young Global Leaders Community in Africa. Facilitated by the World Economic Forum and the Aliko Dangote Foundation. This platform helps support Africans and issues to be heard on a global scale and represented in decision-making processes. This youth leadership program chooses speakers to voice their perspectives on issues. It helps young people from developing countries have their needs heard and valued on a global scale and helps promote international conversations. Kamissa Camara, a Young Global Leader, is a Professor of Practice in International Diplomacy at the University of Michigan. As a former Foreign Minister of Mali and a current Aliko Dangote Fellow, she discusses her governmental experiences, crisis management and political challenges. Kamissa speaks about her experiences as a government official in Mali, crisis management and politics. In addition, she represents those who share her experiences and welcomes innovative solutions that can bring positive change to people’s home countries.

Looking Forward

The empowerment of Africa’s youth through education, leadership and advocacy initiatives holds promise for transformative change. These programs not only cultivate young leaders but also ensure their voices play a vital role in shaping the future. With sustained support and expanded opportunities, there is hope that Africa’s young population can drive progress and innovation across the continent.

– Gabrielle Schwartz

Gabrielle is based in Tallahassee, FL, USA and focuses on Politics and World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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India’s Journey: Emerging as a Global Economic Powerhouse

Global Economic PowerhouseIn recent years, India has emerged as a global economic powerhouse, displaying remarkable economic progress that has positively impacted both extreme and non-monetary poverty. This is evident in the poverty decline over the years.  In 2022, India witnessed a substantial reduction in its Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) rate, dropping from 55.1% to 16.4% in 15 years. Several critical factors influence this decrease in poverty and the improvement of the global economic outlook.

India’s Growing Middle Class

The middle class in every country plays a pivotal role in shaping its economic outlook. India’s middle class is the fastest-growing demographic group in India, as it has witnessed a significant growth rate of 6.3% annually from 1995 to 2021.

Currently, the middle class makes up 31% of the population and projections indicate that this percentage will increase to 38% by 2031 and to 60% by 2047. The increase in the middle class has been one of the determining factors behind India’s growing success as a global economic powerhouse, as it leads to an increment in consumption and human capital for innovation.

IT Services and Digital Transformation

India’s IT services and digital transformation have propelled its position as a major player globally. India’s technology industry is a powerhouse driving the country’s global economy, job market and overall growth. In the fiscal year 2022, its revenue surpassed $200 billion. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated India’s digital progress, leading to a surge in internet users and a shift toward online services, including education and food delivery. As a result, India’s digital economy, comprising online businesses and services, is projected to reach a worth of $1 trillion by 2030.

Digital transformation is important for big companies and also smaller ones. Businesses are realizing they need to embrace technology to survive and grow. India is exploring exciting possibilities, like using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve internet access and digital services for everyone, even in rural areas. It is investing in innovations like AI to solve big challenges. While it is still early, the potential is huge for transforming India’s society and global economy for the better.

India’s Agricultural Landscape

The agriculture sector, a vital component of India’s economy, contributes significantly to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and employment. In the past years, it has experienced robust growth, accounting for 18.8% of the Gross Value Added (GVA) in 2021-22. Growth in allied sectors like livestock, dairying and fisheries has been the primary driver of this expansion.

Indian agriculture is now consumption-driven rather than population-driven, with farmers displaying diverse skills and small farms serving multiple functions. India ranks fourth globally in terms of the total value of agricultural production. Additionally, it is the second-largest food producer by calorie content, trailing only behind China.

India’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

Over the past decade, India has experienced robust growth in its domestic market. It has attracted additional foreign direct investment (FDI) and focused on establishing foundational elements for sustainable economic development. Notably, India has advanced in global rankings for innovation and ease of doing business, indicating a favorable environment for further economic expansion.

In FY 2021-22, India saw a significant surge in annual FDI inflows, reaching $84,835 billion, surpassing the previous year by $2.87 billion. FDI equity inflows in the manufacturing sector increased by 76% compared to the previous fiscal year, totaling $21.34 billion. During FY 2022 (April-December), total FDI inflows in India amounted to $55.27 billion, with FDI equity inflows totaling $36.74 billion. Key countries contributing to FDI equity inflows included Singapore, the United States (U.S.), Mauritius, the Netherlands and Switzerland. The top sectors attracting FDI equity inflows in FY 2021-22 were computer software and hardware, services, the automobile industry, trading and construction activities.

Conclusion

In the past two decades, India has made remarkable strides in reducing extreme poverty. Between 2011 and 2019 it has halved the population living on below $2.15 per person per day. India aims to achieve high middle-income status by 2047.

According to the World Bank, for India to achieve this goal, it would need to focus on growth-oriented reforms and the expansion of quality job opportunities that match the influx of labor market entrants. Additionally, addressing gaps in economic participation, including increasing female workforce participation, is imperative to its global economic outlook.

– Teniola Yusuf

Teniola is based in Norwich, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Zimbabwe’s New Currency: A New Start?

Zimbabwe’s New CurrencyZimbabwe is a country in Southern Africa that has faced a volatile economy and high poverty and unemployment rates in the last decades. Amid surging inflation, which reached 55% in March 2024, the government announced the creation of a new currency, the ZiG, indexed on market prices and backed by gold. The hope is that this new currency could stabilize the economy and restore market confidence. Zimbabwe’s new currency and poverty situation are now closely interlinked.

Zimbabwe’s Economic Situation

The 2023 elections, which saw President Emmerson Mnangagwa get reelected, largely happened under the sign of economic concerns plaguing the country. The foregone rule of Mugabe left the country in dire financial circumstances. Among other problems, high inflation, corruption and a suspension of aid from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as part of sanctions have yielded a cutthroat economic situation.

Although real gross domestic growth (GDP) reached 5.5% in 2023, this number is expected to fall to 3.3% in 2024 due to the effects of an El Nino induced drought and the general macroeconomic instability. However, the country’s economic foundations are considered decent as several sectors, such as agriculture and mineral production, remain locally and globally competitive. Yet, structural economic challenges will have to be tackled head-on to fulfill Zimbabwe’s economic potential truly.

Zimbabwe and Poverty

The decades of economic instability have stunted the country’s ability to fight poverty. As of 2023, it’s estimated that 42% of the population still lives in extreme poverty, with a quarter of the population being food insecure. With certain economists claiming the country’s unemployment rate is as high as 85%, much of the burden for the slow progress in diminishing poverty rates falls upon the country’s economic situation.

Zimbabwe’s New Currency and Poverty

Finance Minister Ncube announced the creation of the ZiG (Zim Gold) as part of a series of measures that sought to restore economic stability to the country. Since its election, the government has increased taxes on products such as sugar to repay some of the debt that has caused much of the country’s structural problems.

The new currency, indexed on the country’s gold reserves and precious minerals, would be less volatile than its predecessor. Indeed, backed by hard value items, this would prevent the currency from losing its worth. If successful, the new currency could help restore the country’s economy, where currently 85% of transactions are recorded in the United States (U.S. dollars). The government’s main objective is to regain strength and trust in a national currency as a path to leave the U.S. Dollar.

Suffering from high exchange rates, confidence in a national currency could lend itself to a better overall context for small and private businesses if restored. Zimbabwe’s new currency and poverty both rely upon stability and forthcoming measures.

Looking Ahead

The currency debuted and Zimbabweans were asked to exchange their remaining Zimbabwean Dollars for the ZiG in early April. Since then, mixed reports have come out. The general mistrust of the population regarding the historically chaotic management of the country’s economic institution leads many to remain keen on prioritizing the U.S. Dollar in most exchanges.

However, the ZiG does stay at a much lower exchange rate than its predecessor, the U.S. dollar. The choice of backing up the currency with hard assets still yields questions as economists wonder if the country’s gold and mineral reserves are large enough to back a currency. Whether this new approach will bear its fruits for Zimbabwe’s new currency and poverty alleviation requires close monitoring in the future.

– Felix Stephens

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

Photo: Flickr

Investing in Women to Eradicate Gendered Poverty

Gendered PovertyPoverty does not affect everyone equally, regardless of gender. If things continue as they are, more than 340 million women and girls will still be living in extreme poverty by 2030. Gendered poverty, as highlighted by U.N. Women, remains a significant barrier to achieving gender equality and sustainable development globally.

Education and Economic Participation

Gendered poverty manifests in various forms, disproportionately affecting women and girls across the globe. Millions of girls are unable to attend school, especially in conflict-affected areas like Afghanistan. Globally in 2023, up to 129 million girls and young women could have been out of school, with an estimated 110 million projected to remain out of school by 2030, the U.N. Women reports. The fact that 32.1% of young women aged 15 to 24 were not in education, employment, or training (NEET) globally in 2022 concludes that women face systemic exploitation and oppression, impacting their access to education and opportunities.

Unpaid Labor and Wage Gap

For example – in a developing country like India, the disparity in unpaid labor is glaring, with women dedicating an average of 352 minutes daily to domestic chores compared to men’s 51.8 minutes. Despite its seeming insignificance to casual observers, the fact that nearly half of the female population, amidst a 1.3 billion-strong nation, goes unaccounted for in the annual GDP raises significant concerns.

Closing the gender wage gap is not just about fairness; it is also a critical step toward reducing poverty among working women, particularly single mothers. Studies consistently demonstrate that bridging this gap would lead to lower poverty rates for women across all states and contribute to greater economic security for women and their families. Ensuring equal pay for equal work promotes gender equality and uplifts communities, promoting economic resilience.

Impact Through Action

Despite the pressing need, a mere 4% of bilateral aid goes towards gender equality and women’s empowerment. Bridging the gap to achieve gender equality by 2030 requires an estimated annual investment of $360 billion, according to the U.N. Women.

International initiatives are driving tangible change in communities worldwide, amplifying the voices of women and girls and dismantling barriers to their empowerment. Through targeted programs and projects, they are actively working by providing financial resources, enhancing access to economic opportunities, and fostering an enabling environment for their participation in decision-making processes.

Fighting Gendered Poverty

Kazakhstan’s Commissioner for Children’s Rights, Dinara Zakiyeva, remarked on the imperativeness of legislative efforts to protect children’s rights, including bills aimed at combating domestic violence and bullying By providing accessible and affordable childcare options, the project empowers women economically too.

During 2023, Kazakhstan expanded childcare subsidies for both employed and unemployed mothers from 1 to 1.5 years and raised social benefits for individuals with disabilities by 14.5%. This enhanced support mechanism benefited nearly 700,000 parents throughout the year.

In Senegal, Mali and Niger, women are challenging stereotypes and emerging as successful entrepreneurs in the renewable energy sector with support from Plan International. The Economic and Social Development of Women through Renewable Energies in the Sahel (DESFERS) project empowers more than 21,000 women to harness opportunities in the renewable energy field, particularly solar power, to establish various small businesses. By addressing social, economic and cultural inequalities that hinder women’s economic participation, DESFERS aims to create avenues for women’s economic empowerment.

As part of this movement, the Stepping Stone Grassroots Women group, affiliated with the Huairou Commission, is actively addressing gendered poverty by empowering women traders and advocating for changes to protect women’s rights and dignity, the U.N. Women reports. Through their project, 16 female traders have been supported in establishing women-only fishponds, challenging traditional power dynamics and enhancing women’s economic independence. The group seeks to amplify women’s voices, address gender-based violence, and promote gender equality in all spheres of life.

– Malaikah Niyazi

Malaikah is based in Mumbai, India and focuses on Global Health and World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Understanding Elderly Poverty in South Africa 

Elderly Poverty in South Africa South Africa, a nation grappling with various tribulations confronts yet another growing challenge: elderly poverty.

The Ageing Index

The rise in the proportion of elderly individuals within the population, referred to as population ageing has become one of the most pertinent issues of the 21st century, affecting nations globally.

The Ageing Index denotes the ratio of individuals aged 60 years and above per 100 individuals less than the age of 15 within a given population. Thus, a higher index signifies a larger proportion of elderly people within a population.

The ageing index in South Africa increased from 30 in 2017, to 33 in 2022, a clear signal of the problem, according to Statistics South Africa. It also reported that in 2022, more than 5 million people were 60 or older. This means that around 9.2% of South Africa’s population comprises the elderly.

Financial Vulnerability

Statistically, one-quarter of all older people could be chronically poor. In addition to this, the University of Natal found that Africans make up almost 90% of chronically poor elderly. This poses a huge threat to the safety and well-being of the elderly population in South Africa. This vulnerability stems from various factors, including inadequate pensions, limited employment opportunities and the burden of supporting extended families.

Root Causes

The elderly in South Africa face a wide range of challenges. Having spent the majority of their lives under an apartheid system, South Africans older than 50 spent their working years under employment restrictions. Thus, one of the main causes of elderly poverty is unemployment. Highly competitive labor markets, without work opportunities for those with poor training and education, serve as a huge hindrance to older workers. Further, limited social protection is another factor that exacerbates elderly poverty in South Africa. The state old age pension system is the only policy in place, however, it is not completely effective due to extended families exploiting the pension, and bureaucratic hurdles. Thus, this policy is unable to help the elderly meet their basic needs, especially in light of rising inflation.

Efforts Towards Alleviation

Efforts to alleviate elderly poverty in South Africa involve various government policies, social programs and initiatives from non-governmental organizations.

The South African government provides social grants to vulnerable groups, including the elderly. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) administered The Old Age Pension in 1928, providing financial assistance to elderly citizens who meet certain criteria. By 1958, the percentage of old age people receiving the grant had risen to 60%.

Government and non-profit organizations run elderly care facilities that provide housing, health care and social support to seniors in need. These facilities aim to improve the quality of life for elderly individuals who may be experiencing poverty. These are in the form of – Retirement villages, Residential Care facilities, Communal living and Abbeyfield homes.

Many community organizations run meal delivery programs that provide nutritious meals to elderly individuals who may have difficulty preparing food themselves due to physical limitations or financial constraints. For example, the Meals on Wheels Association of South Africa (MOWASA) delivers meals to the homes of elderly citizens across the country. Doctor Denis Baird founded it in 1964, and its national program currently comprises more than 700 service points.

Financial Literacy and Empowerment Programs

Some community organizations offer financial literacy workshops and empowerment programs specifically focusing on elderly individuals to help them manage their finances, access available benefits and resources and plan for their future. These programs aim to enhance the economic security and independence of elderly citizens. The Ageing with Dignity (AWD) initiative started in 2009 and provides financial literacy training and resources to elderly individuals in underserved communities.  The primary aim is to prevent loss of dignity due to health issues in old age, mainly stemming from the feeling that one is a burden to the family. Under AWD, anybody above the age of 60 years in the Dakulguda cluster of 15 villages can choose to join the club meant for them, by paying an annual subscription of Rs 10. In the AWD program, there are currently 636 members, which is almost the entire elderly population of the program villages.

– Naysa Seth
Photo: Flickr