Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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A Music Tour Reducing Poverty in Africa

Poverty in AfricaRwanda is a small landlocked country in East Africa that has remarkably reduced extreme poverty from 40% to 16% since 2000. However, as a young country with 45% of the population under the age of 18, childhood poverty remains a significant challenge. To recognize the efforts of those working to alleviate poverty in Africa, the “Move Afrika: Rwanda” concert was held at Kigali’s BK arena on December 6, 2023.

Poverty in Rwanda

Despite significant efforts and successes in reducing poverty in Rwanda, the challenges for children and their families remain substantial. Of 1,000 children born in Rwanda, 50 do not survive to 5 years old. Moreover, 75% of these deaths come in the first months of life. While chronic malnutrition has declined, poor water quality and access to hygiene facilities still leave children suffering from stunting and low birth weight. This challenge is compounded by the fact that only 64% of households have their own latrine and 5% have hand-washing facilities with soap and water.

In terms of education, 13% of children are enrolled in early education, with a large disparity weighted against children living in rural areas compared to urban ones–a common trend when analyzing child poverty rates globally. Despite these challenges, poverty reduction efforts in Rwanda merit celebrating and supporting further. Hence, the American creative communications company pgLang, in partnership with Grammy Award winner Kendrick Lamar, the Rwanda Development Board and Global Citizen, imagined an original music event for the region.

Move Afrika: Rwanda

“Move Afrika: Rwanda” supports an advocacy campaign that urged world leaders to make bold pledges on significant issues, aiming to reduce poverty in Africa. The campaign focused on key areas such as increasing resources for health campaigns that particularly benefit women and young girls, addressing food scarcity within the continent and providing greater access to economic opportunities. During the event, local communities were supported with training to support the concert. This included stage management and security skills training. Furthermore, Rwandan culture was front and center, with traditional Agaseke peace baskets a focal point on the stage. These were crafted by 20 artisans from the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre.

In celebrating those people fighting to reduce poverty in Rwanda, the works of nonprofits and civil society workers who came together in nationwide community service to plant more than 1,000 trees on Mount Rebero were recognized. In attendance also were 30 health care workers who were allowed to highlight their work in health equity and access. Move Afrika has also made a lasting pledge to continue to support local entrepreneurs and help them access longer-term job opportunities in the future. By giving internationally recognizable performers such as Kendrick Lamar a platform, Move Afrika is exposing countries like Rwanda to fighting poverty with international support.

The Future of Move Afrika?

“The Move Afrika: Rwanda” music tour was a success. So much so that it will be repeated next year; this time, it will be held in Ghana. Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo said, “Global Citizen is known for leveraging live music events to engage youth while creating social and economic impact. Today, we celebrate this milestone for Ghana.”

“We look forward to future announcements on this growing cohort of Move Afrika destinations,” he added. With Move Afrika at the beginning of its journey to reduce poverty in Africa, there is no telling where this innovative and engaging project will end up.

– Thomas Field
Photo: Flickr

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The Life You Can Save: Charities in Bangladesh

The Life You Can Save: Charities in BangladeshBangladesh has made significant progress in welfare and poverty reduction since the 2000s. The country’s poverty rate decreased from 13.47% in 2016 to 10.44% in 2022. Additionally, a recent World Bank report from 2016-17 shows that 24.3% of people live below the upper poverty line and 12.9% below the extreme poverty line. However, the country faces natural disasters and limited access to health care and education, presenting significant challenges to its development and welfare improvement efforts. In the face of these hardships, charitable organizations play a crucial role in supporting vulnerable communities amidst these challenges. In an interview about charities in Bangladesh, The Borgen Project spoke with Katie Stanford, Research Director of The Life You Can Save, highlighting its efforts to alleviate poverty, improve health care and empower individuals to build a better future for themselves and their families. 

The Life You Can Save

The Life You Can Save, established in 2013, champions effective charitable giving to combat poverty. This organization rigorously evaluates and endorses high-impact charities, ensuring donors contribute to the most effective causes. To date, it has facilitated more than $100 million in donations. Furthermore, The Life You Can Save supports several charities in Bangladesh, each addressing poverty in diverse and impactful ways. The following are some of the charities:

Fistula Foundation

The Maternal Morbidity Validation Study (MMVS) revealed that in Bangladesh, the adjusted prevalence rate of obstetric fistulas among women aged 15 to 49 is 38 per 100,000. The study revealed that 4,081 women aged 50 to 64 suffer from this condition, totaling 17,457 affected women between ages 15 and 64. This data underscores the significant health challenge obstetric fistula poses to women in Bangladesh. The Fistula Foundation leads in treating obstetric fistula worldwide. A fistula is a severe birth injury that often leads to incontinence and social ostracization for women. Beyond covering surgery costs, the foundation supports surgeon training, provides facility equipment, engages in grassroots community initiatives and ensures comprehensive post-surgery recovery. Annually, it facilitates more than 10,000 surgeries to repair childbirth injuries, highlighting its significant impact in restoring dignity and health to affected women.

Malaria Consortium

In the late 1990s, Bangladesh reported up to 70,000 laboratory-confirmed malaria cases, 900,000 clinical cases and more than 500 deaths annually, with suspected unreported cases possibly exceeding 250,000 annually. A 2007 survey in the 13 endemic districts revealed a 4% crude prevalence, with Plasmodium falciparum responsible for more than 90% of the cases. The Chittagong Hill Tracts showed the highest infection rates. This highlights the significant public health challenge malaria poses, necessitating targeted interventions to reduce transmission and fatalities.

The Malaria Consortium provides initiatives that shield the most vulnerable and impoverished children in Asia and Africa from a variety of fatal illnesses, such as pneumonia and malaria. In addition, the Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) project is an incredibly economical and scientifically supported method of preventing malaria in children under the age of 5. Moreover, its annual demonstrated impact includes delivering seasonal malaria chemoprevention to 24 million children, significantly more than 20 million in the previous year.

Helen Keller Intl.

Vitamin A deficiency poses a serious health risk to Bangladesh’s children, leading to blindness and increased mortality among those under 6 years of age. Annually, around 30,000 children may become blind from this deficiency, with many dying shortly thereafter. Helen Keller Intl. addresses this through its annual global vitamin A supplementation programs, benefiting 32 million children under the age of 5 each year and supporting 388,000 families with resources to grow and sell vitamin A-rich foods. In addition, this approach significantly improves child health and nutrition, highlighting the need for ongoing nutritional interventions.

Life You Can Save: Charities Research and Evaluation

The Life You Can Save supports several charities in Bangladesh, including the Fred Hollows Foundation, Seva Foundation, Oxfam and Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA). The organization ensures aid reaches those most in need in the most effective ways. It rigorously analyzes data to identify the best interventions for various aspects of poverty, focusing on the highest-impact charities. The rigorous research and continuous assessments equips donors with detailed information to enhance their philanthropic impact. Moreover, the process involves evaluating donor interventions based on their evidence, reach, depth and lasting effects while assessing charities by their evidence quality, reporting, track record, cost-effectiveness, transparency, community understanding and commitment to upholding the dignity of its beneficiaries.

Looking Ahead

Bangladesh continues to forge a path toward a brighter future, bolstered by the crucial support of impactful charities and organizations like The Life You Can Save. Above all, the collaborative endeavors of local and international partners signify a beacon of hope for the millions striving for a life free from poverty and disease in Bangladesh.

– AuiCha Conley

AuiCha is based in Detroit, MI, USA and focuses on Health and Charity for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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The Impact of Inadequate WASH Conditions on Poverty

Inadequate WASH ConditionsIn the complex network known as global health, one silent crisis stands out as a major threat to vulnerable populations: poor water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). This issue continues to have a lasting negative impact on the general well-being of populations in low and middle-income communities, highlighting a strong correlation between inadequate WASH conditions and the prevalence of poverty. Within the field of public health, access to clean water is not only a crucial aspect regarding well-being, but also a fundamental human right.

The Public Health Crisis

A number of factors known as the social determinants of health influence the well-being of a community; these factors include socioeconomic status, environment conditions, access to health care, education and cultural factors. Each of these components play a significant role in the health of a community, and it is important to take them into consideration when dealing with critical issues like inadequate WASH conditions.

Socioeconomic status, such as race and income, play a huge role in the access to clean water. Unfortunately, although clean water is a basic human right, it continues to be a major issue particularly in low income communities. In these areas, lack of access to clean water is responsible for a significant percentage of deaths, particularly among children under the age of five.

The Link Between Clean Water and Health

About 2 million people around the world lack access to clean drinking water, while 3.6 billion people lack access to proper sanitation, and 2.3 lacking basic hygiene services. Germs, parasites or harmful chemicals, which may come from a variety of sources, including human or animal waste, chemicals and other substances, may contaminate unsafe water. Poor access to clean water has a close correlation to the spread of illnesses such as cholera, typhoid and polio. Contaminated water is responsible for more than 500,000 deaths annually in low income communities, with 300,000 of fatalities being children under 5. In regions with insufficient WASH conditions, it is important to understand that this crisis has a huge impact on their well-being and overall quality of life.

A nation that faces severe challenges related to WASH conditions is Pakistan, making it among the most affected nations in the world. Although Pakistan has 79% water supply coverage, water quality remains a major problem, causing extreme health dangers such as fecal contamination. Drinking water quality has typically gotten less attention in Pakistan, with inadequate organizational structures, as well as a lack of legislation and regulations addressing water quality issues. According to a community health study, low-quality drinking water causes 40% of deaths and 50% of diseases in Pakistan.

Solutions

Although there is no overnight solution to this crisis, there are policies and interventions that can be implemented to aid in mitigating it. Implementing measures that involve providing stable sanitation and clean drinking water, as well as adopting basic hygiene practices can potentially save the lives of 1.4 million people worldwide. For example, in Pakistan, some policies are in place to mitigate these issues. For instance, schools in Pakistan have implemented school-specific WASH policies aimed at achieving a variety of goals, including raising awareness, providing suitable sanitation centers and ensuring adequate drinking water access. Furthermore, UNICEF and its partners are actively involved in the implementation of policies designed to mitigate the negative consequences of inadequate WASH conditions.

This crisis demands attention and resources that will aid in breaking the cycle of poverty and poor health. The silent crisis of inadequate water access requires global attention, resources and consistent efforts in order to break the cycle. Join the movement for global change by advocating for the advancement of WASH conditions in lower income communities, by raising awareness, supporting organizations working towards this cause and urging policymakers to take this issue into consideration. Together, everyone can make a difference in improving lives and ensuring a better future for all.

– Retaj Kamal Elghanai
Photo: Flickr

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Disability and Poverty in Russia

Disability and Poverty in RussiaRussia’s poverty rate across all demographics sits at 12.1% as of 2020, per the World Bank. Further, 13 million Russians have disabilities, which is roughly 9% of the total population. In lower and middle-income countries, which includes Russia, disabled people are twice as likely to live in poverty than non-disabled people. As with many countries, disability and poverty in Russia are linked to each other; Russia’s history of discrimination against disabled people relegates many of them to live in poverty and this marginalized demographic faces discrimination in modern-day Russia.

History

Historically, the Russian government has treated its disabled citizens with disregard for their well-being. The current Russian Federation’s former governing state, the Soviet Union, outright denied their existence in the country, infamously declining to participate in the first iteration of the Paralympic Games in 1980, claiming that no disabled people existed in the country.

Before this, the Soviet government assigned disabled World War II veterans to low-paying jobs upon their return from war, thus relegated to poverty. These new jobs assigned to the now-disabled Russian veterans often disregarded their previous careers and skill sets. They reduced them to being defined by their disability.

This practice of job reassignment created an association between poverty and disability in Russia and disabled citizens were given little opportunity to better their conditions beyond their low-wage occupations.

Modern Problems

In addition to the higher rates of poverty among disabled Russians, discrimination against people with disabilities is still pervasive in the country. In 1995, the Russian Federation passed a law outlining a federal definition of disability, a step forward from the Soviet Union’s denial of disabled Russians.

Despite the federal acknowledgment of disabled citizens, the country still lacks adequate resources for them. Disabled people in Russia, particularly children with disabilities, are mistreated. For example, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW), Russian orphanages have been caught transferring their disabled residents to state-run institutions without their consent once they have turned 18 when they instead should be transitioned into living independently.

This comes in tandem with allegations of abuse inside Russian orphanages, where an estimated 30% of disabled Russian children live. These orphanages hold children for extended periods despite being intended only for temporary stays. Former residents have accused these children’s homes of tying patients to beds, sedating them and temporarily transferring them to mental institutions against their will as punishment.

Solutions

The violence and adversity faced by disabled people are still pervasive. However, some organizations are working to alleviate the issues that come from disability and poverty in Russia. To combat the adversity faced by disabled Russians, some citizens have started their own charities and nonprofits to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and give support to their families.

For example, Perspektiva is a Russian nonprofit that works to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities, including helping them find employment to diminish the number of people living with both disability and poverty in Russia. Perspektiva has helped Russians with disabilities complete internships with international companies, such as Ernst and Young, L’Oreal and SAP and it lists hundreds of jobs on its employment portal for disabled job applicants.

Final Remark

The social acknowledgment of disabled Russians and the work of charities like Perspektiva have helped improve the status of disabled Russians living in poverty. However, this vulnerable demographic still needs assistance and advocacy to improve further.

– Elizabeth Nelms
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Trees for the Future: Hope and Prosperity in Sub-Saharan Africa

Trees for the FutureIn the vast expanse of Sub-Saharan Africa, where communities face many challenges, Trees for the Future has emerged as a beacon of hope. The organization is known chiefly for its large-scale ecosystem restoration efforts and, as of recently, recognized as a United Nations (U.N.) World Restoration Flagship. But Trees for the Future is much more than just that; its focus transcends mere reforestation efforts.

It pioneers initiatives that catalyze profound socioeconomic transformations and improve countless individuals’ lives across nine African countries. The organization works with the belief that “farmers have the power to change everything” and that to solve issues of hunger and poverty, farmers should be at the forefront of the solution.

The Forest Garden Approach

This organization intrinsically follows the philosophy of teaching a man to fish. The innovative Forest Garden Approach lies at the heart of Trees for the Future’s mission. This approach is where the organization’s staff train the locals in a regenerative agroforestry technique through a four-year program where the group also provides them with seeds and other resources. Unlike conventional monoculture methods, this approach integrates trees with crops, transforming degraded landscapes into thriving ecosystems.

By planting a diverse array of tree species alongside staple crops such as maize and beans, communities not only replenish greenery but also foster economic stability. The Forest Garden Approach transcends the conventional paradigm of small-scale farming by addressing the intertwined challenges of poverty and food insecurity. Families cultivating forest gardens not only benefit from increased yields and improved soil fertility but also gain access to a continuous source of food and income.

Village Savings and Loans Association Training

In 2020, Trees for the Future introduced Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) Training as an additional element to its program, alongside promoting sustainable agriculture to empower communities. Recognizing the critical link between financial literacy and communal economic advancement, this training equips locals with the skills and resources needed to break the cycle of poverty.

Through VSLAs, typically made up of 15–30 members, community members learn to establish savings and lend their savings to one another at low-interest rates. By fostering a culture of financial inclusion and cooperation, Trees for the Future empowers individuals to pursue income-generating activities and invest in their futures.

A Transformative Impact

Forest gardens in rural villages once plagued by food insecurity and economic hardship now flourish, yielding abundant harvests and sustaining families year-round. One such success that Trees for the Future shares on its blog is the story of Fatoumata, a Senegal farmer who diversified her crops, secured a stable income and became a leader in her community. Today, she serves as a role model for other women, inspiring them to embrace opportunities for economic empowerment.

Conclusion

With the aim of creating 230,000 jobs by 2030, Trees for the Future stands against the challenges of poverty and food insecurity that so many people face. Through initiatives like the Forest Garden Approach and VSLA Training, the organization exemplifies the transformative power of grassroots efforts in fostering community resilience and prosperity. Trees for the Future offers a compelling vision of hope and possibility by championing sustainable agriculture and economic empowerment.

– Danielle Schaafsma
Photo: Unsplash

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Mayan Embroidery Lifting People Out of Poverty

Mayan EmbroideryIn Belize, more than a third of the population suffered monetary, educational and infrastructural poverty in 2021. Additionally, more than half of the population faced challenges affording sufficient nutrition and basic non-food items in 2018. Furthermore, the limited participation of females in the labor force impedes poverty alleviation efforts and exacerbates the strain on the labor market.

A notable structural discrepancy has existed in employment and poverty outcomes, with women and indigenous Mayans displaying a higher likelihood of being both self-employed and living in poverty. However, a centuries-old Mayan art form once believed to be fading away is experiencing a magnificent revival and is helping to lift Mayan women and men out of poverty in Belize.

The Fashionable Revival of Mayan Embroidery

This revival of traditional Mayan embroidery is evident on websites of online giants such as Etsy and in high-priced boutiques in North America and Europe. Additionally, key public figures in Belize and influencers proudly promote clothing featuring this hand-crafted artwork. Unfortunately, the indigenous women who spend weeks and sometimes months crafting these complex designs do not always see the financial benefits of the work they put into their artistic expression.

However, this narrative is shifting thanks to the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM) and SATIIM’s highly praised project, “Fahina: Re-Branding the Creative Industry of Maya Women in Belize.” Initially championed by Belizean intellectual and anthropologist Froyla Tzalam, this initiative received a grant of $130,000 from the Bank’s Cultural and Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF).

MayaBags and Monetary Autonomy

MayaBags was founded to share the art of Mayan embroidery with the world, help alleviate poverty in Belize and help Mayan women become financially autonomous. The artisanal handbags encapsulate a rich narrative of Belizean Maya culture, celebrating its innate creativity and the skilled Mayan artists behind the intricately woven textiles adorning each bag. As a thriving social enterprise, MayaBags collaborates closely with Maya women from the Toledo District, harnessing traditional hand skills that have endured for millennia. These time-honored techniques infuse each bag with a profound sense of heritage, embodying more than 2000 years of Maya craftsmanship.

Since its inception by Judy Bergsma in 1999, MayaBags has flourished, evolving from a small-scale endeavor with just six artisans to a formidable enterprise boasting more than 90 skilled individuals. The demand continues to surge, with many Maya women and men eager to join and contribute to the initiative. Every individual on the MayaBags team has transitioned into a shareholder, marking a significant shift in the artisans’ lives. The impact is profound: nearly all MayaBags workers now have bank accounts, a stark departure from previous hesitance due to feelings of exclusion from the system.

Impacts on Education

Moreover, a substantial change is evident in the education landscape as most artisans’ children are enrolled, some even advancing to high school. This transformation was helped by prioritizing education and the financial means to afford school essentials like uniforms, books, exam fees and transportation fares. Desiree Arnold, the Production and Business Manager for MayaBags in Belize, attested, “Without a market and an ability to pay the artisans for their skills, traditional hand skills will be lost, at one point, forever.” She discusses how, in villages where women are not being encouraged to practice their skills, the quality of their traditional crafts has steadily declined. However, traditional skills thrive in the nine villages where MayaBags operates and remain vibrant.

Conclusion

The success story of MayaBags serves as a testament to the transformative potential of empowering local artisans and fostering entrepreneurial endeavors rooted in cultural heritage. By providing avenues for economic autonomy and education, initiatives like MayaBags preserve traditional hand skills and uplift entire communities, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future in Belize.

– Lilah Dees
Photo: Flickr

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The Impact of Concern Worldwide in Pakistan

Concern WorldwideConcern Worldwide, an international nongovernment organization “that strives for a world free from poverty, fear and oppression,” has been pivotal in driving positive change and significantly impacting Pakistan through its range of programs and initiatives. With a commitment to addressing the most pressing needs of communities across the country, Concern Worldwide has established itself as a key player in the realm of humanitarian aid and development. From health care and education to livelihood support and emergency response, the organization’s multifaceted approach aims to uplift and empower individuals and communities in Pakistan, ultimately contributing to a brighter and more sustainable future for all.

Why Is Concern Worldwide Helping Pakistan?

Pakistan faces a significant risk of natural disasters, including droughts, earthquakes, floods and landslides. These events often lead to mass displacement, increased humanitarian needs and worsened food insecurity and malnutrition. In fact, from June to September of 2022, Pakistan experienced significant impacts from heavy monsoon rains and glacial lake outbursts, which led to widespread flooding and landslides. Approximately 33 million people were affected, with more than 1,700 reported deaths, nearly 12,900 individuals injured and an estimated 7.9 million people displaced.

Additionally, more than 2.3 million houses and millions of acres of agricultural land and crops were damaged or destroyed. As of 2023, according to the latest Global Hunger Index (GHI) report, Pakistan has been placed 99th out of 129 nations and has classified its hunger level as “serious.” The intersection of political conflict, the changing climate and the COVID-19 pandemic has placed millions at risk of food insecurity.

What Is Concern Worldwide Doing To Help?

Concern Worldwide is making an impact in Pakistan and creating substantial positive changes. Through community empowerment and enhancing education and health care accessibility, its efforts focus on building a better tomorrow for those most in need. In partnership with local entities in the South Asian nation, its efforts are concentrated on building resilience to natural challenges, swift responses to crises, tackling malnutrition and encouraging the development of skills, livelihoods and economic self-reliance.

Health and Nutrition Programs

By improving access to health care services, providing nutritional support to children and pregnant women and raising awareness about hygiene and sanitation practices, the organization is helping to improve the overall health and well-being of communities in Pakistan.

Its Community Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) Surge strategy is geared towards improving the health care system and enhancing the skills of health care professionals. The nonprofit has trained medical officers, nutrition assistants and paramedical staff in 28 health facilities to provide essential care to malnourished children, pregnant women and nursing mothers.

Emergency Responses

One of the main ways in which Concern Worldwide is making an impact in Pakistan is through its emergency response efforts. From distributing food and water to offering medical assistance, its emergency response teams work tirelessly to ensure that individuals and families have the support they need during times of crisis. For example, the initiative’s Responding to Pakistan’s Internally Displaced (RAPID) Fund Program helps those affected by natural or artificial disasters nationwide.

The organization also tackles the underlying factors contributing to emergencies by emphasizing disaster risk reduction and building resilience. In 2018, the initial phase of the DFID-funded Building Disaster Resilience Program (BDRP) was completed successfully, improving resilience at the community and household levels in districts prone to flooding.

Economic Opportunities and Gender Equity

Using the Building Disaster Resilience program, Concern Worldwide is working to empower individuals to create lasting income sources through Climate Smart Agriculture by providing workshops for both women and men. These workshops include male and female farmers learning climate-smart practices to improve their crop production, leading to better incomes.

However, these interventions were specifically targeted at women. In fact, in 2018, 2,250 nutritious and locally-grown vegetable packages were provided to women, along with the necessary tools to help them create home-based kitchen gardens. These initiatives aim to enhance women’s economic prospects and boost their confidence and motivation to assist in making their communities a better place.

Agriculture

Furthermore, Concern Worldwide is impacting Pakistan through its efforts to promote environmental sustainability and climate resilience. By working with communities to implement sustainable agricultural practices, conserve natural resources and adapt to the changing climate, the organization helps protect the environment and build resistance against the impacts of the changing climate in Pakistan.

This has benefited the environment and improved the livelihoods and well-being of vulnerable communities in the country. In 2019, more than 200 sessions were held on Climate Smart Agriculture. Additionally, 129 training sessions on livestock management were conducted for households relying on livestock for their income. Furthermore, 240 community livestock extension workers were trained to ensure the availability of cost-effective livestock services.

Conclusion

By focusing on education, health care, emergency response, livelihoods, gender equality and environmental sustainability, Concern Worldwide is positively changing the lives of millions of people in Pakistan and helping to create a more stable society for future generations.

– Sara Hatab
Photo: Flickr

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Transformative Gains in Water and Sanitation Across Asia

Water and Sanitation Across AsiaIn recent years, Asia has been making commendable strides in the realm of water and sanitation. There has been a wave of positive change that promises a brighter, healthier future for millions. The unfolding narrative explores the vibrant tapestry of initiatives and innovations that define this transformative era for those in Asia.

WASH Initiatives Taking Root

Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives have become catalysts for change across the continent. Countries like India, with its Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission), have set ambitious goals to enhance sanitation infrastructure and promote hygiene practices. This concerted effort has yielded visible improvements in rural and urban areas alike.

WASH initiatives go beyond infrastructure development; they emphasize education and awareness. Programs across countries like Indonesia are not only building toilets but also educating communities about the importance of hygiene. These initiatives instill sustainable practices, ensuring that the impact endures for generations.

Innovative Technologies Making a Splash

The adoption of innovative technologies is revolutionizing water and sanitation solutions. In countries such as Singapore, advanced water treatment technologies, including recycled water for domestic use, are not just addressing scarcity concerns but also setting a benchmark for sustainable practices.

Community-Led Sanitation Programs

Community engagement has emerged as a linchpin in the journey towards better sanitation. Community-led Total Sanitation (CLTS) programs, as seen in Bangladesh, empower local communities to take charge of their sanitation needs. The result is open defecation-free villages and improved health outcomes.

Cross-Border Collaboration for Clean Water

The importance of cross-border collaboration cannot be overstated The Mekong River Commission (MRC) stands as a testament to regional collaboration. Established to promote sustainable development and management of water resources, the MRC facilitates dialogue and joint decision-making among member countries. By sharing data, coordinating infrastructure projects, and fostering cooperation, the MRC contributes to equitable water use and addresses issues of water quality and quantity. The Mekong River Commission, involving countries like Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam, exemplifies regional cooperation for sustainable water resource management, ensuring access to clean water for millions. 

Private Sector Partnerships Flowing In

Partnerships with the private sector are proving instrumental in addressing water and sanitation challenges. Organizations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation are investing in innovative sanitation technologies and solutions, aiming to provide access to safe sanitation facilities for underserved communities.

The progress in water and sanitation across Asia is undeniably heartening. The collaborative efforts of governments, communities, and innovative thinkers are creating a ripple effect that goes beyond infrastructure improvements, touching the lives of millions. As the wave of positive change continues to swell, the future looks promising for a region where access to clean water and sanitation is no longer a luxury but a fundamental right.

– Diana Vu
Photo: Flickr

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Lake Malawi REFRESH Project

Lake Malawi Waters Undergo REFRESH Project Initiatives Malawi is a landlocked country that borders Tanzania, Mozambique and Zambia. It is also one of the poorest countries in the world with a population of 20.4 million and 70% living beneath the international poverty line. The nation relies on Lake Malawi and the support provided by the REFRESH project.

Lake Malawi is integral to the social, economic and environmental well-being of Malawi and its people. It proves to be an indispensable part of the country’s infrastructure, covering a total area of 22,490 square kilometers, employing more than 500,000 people and contributing 4% to the nation’s GDP.

The Lifeline of Malawi: Lake Malawi

Lake Malawi, Africa’s third-largest lake, is crucial for Malawi’s economy and ecology. As a landlocked country, local communities depend on the lake for drinking water, transportation, leisure, power generation, irrigation and notably, fishing.

The lake’s fish significantly contributes to the country’s nutrition and economy, supplying 70% of the animal protein intake. It supports the livelihoods of Malawi’s residents through both local consumption and exports to neighboring countries, making it a crucial economic resource.

Lake Malawi also serves as a vital trade route, facilitating the transportation of goods to neighboring countries. The trade activity positions Lake Malawi as a hub for expansive business networks, essential for the mass production and distribution of natural goods, benefiting not only Malawi but also its neighboring communities through robust trade partnerships.

Residents in the area benefit from job opportunities created by the businesses managing these goods, reinforcing a cycle of employment and food security. Lake Malawi’s wealth of natural resources not only sustains jobs but also underpins food security, laying a strong foundation for the local economy and community wellbeing. Its tributaries hold the key to renewable energy through hydroelectric power generation, diversifying the country’s energy sources. This sustainable energy supports the nation’s industries, homes and various sectors, further stabilizing the country’s economic and environmental landscape.  

Malawi Takes Advantage

Lake Malawi supports the livelihoods of 20.4 million Malawians, surrounding communities and more than 910,000 refugees from Mozambique. With a population growth rate of 3.3%, the lake’s resources are under strain and require restoration. While Lake Malawi is vital for the economy and job creation, Malawi’s low GDP per capita of $554.20 challenges the local population’s ability to sustain and enhance these benefits.

In addition, nationwide poverty significantly challenges individuals in making decisions crucial for the long-term sustainability of natural resources. This difficulty arises from their urgent short-term needs. In addition to the impact on local communities, large-scale commercial fishing operations also contribute to overfishing in Malawi.

Moreover, local reliance on Lake Malawi for sustenance has led individuals to fish in shallow areas, away from large commercial operations. In addition, this practice threatens fish breeding grounds as small-scale fishermen navigate these regions in canoes designed for shallow waters. The impact of these activities presents significant economic and environmental challenges for Malawi and neighboring countries relying on the lake’s resources.

REFRESH Project

The U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) REFRESH project, aimed at enhancing Lake Malawi’s fisheries management and conserving fish biodiversity, spans from October 2019 to September 2024. Recently, USAID provided the Malawian government with an advanced electronic catch assessment survey (eCAS) system and refurbished patrol boats, significantly boosting data collection and surveillance efforts.

The electronic catch system compromises smart tablets, desktop computers and servers which allows them to have an accurate analysis of catch data. This high technology gives Malawi the advantage of being able to estimate fisheries production and evaluate the sector’s economic and food security contributions. 

Additionally, USAID recently upgraded patrol boats for the Salima District Council with new engines to strengthen surveillance against overfishing, promoting adherence to fishing regulations and local laws. This effort aims to preserve the lake’s biodiversity. However, residents of fishing villages, who have depended on Lake Malawi for their livelihoods, sometimes struggle to see these restrictions as measures to sustain the lake’s benefits rather than to limit their use.

Furthermore, regular monitoring of Lake Malawi allows for the identification and education of those overfishing, aligning them with the goals of the REFRESH Project for the lake’s restoration. These efforts, supported by USAID through the provision of operational guidelines and scientific equipment, highlight a deep commitment to sustainable fishing practices and the protection of Malawi’s aquatic ecosystem.

Nurturing Sustainability

The USAID REFRESH project is pivotal for sustainable development in Malawi, particularly for Lake Malawi. It focuses on improving fisheries management, enhancing scientific knowledge and strengthening governance. Its approach not only preserves the lake’s natural environment but also supports the economic well-being of the people who depend on its resources.

The REFRESH project is actively engaging local stakeholders and promoting an ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management. This strategy is designed to ensure a brighter, more sustainable future, harmonizing the well-being of Malawi’s people with the sustainability of the iconic Lake Malawi.

– Tristen Jerkins

Tristen is based in Tampa, FL, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project

Photo: Flickr

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The Yemen Crisis: The Largest Global Humanitarian Crisis

The Yemen CrisisSince 2015, Yemen has been experiencing the largest humanitarian crisis in the world. There is an ongoing civil war which is the cause of the outspread of food insecurity and the economic downfall of Yemen that is currently happening. This has left the people of Yemen with a lack of resources such as food, water and medical assistance. There are currently 23.4 million in need of humanitarian assistance in Yemen. On top of that, the Yemen crisis has led to more than 17.4 million people in Yemen being food insecure and do not have stable access to food and water while an additional 1.6 million are in a state of emergency in terms of hunger.

A Crisis On Children

Due to Yemen experiencing the largest famine in the world, this also means the rate of child malnutrition is high as well. This is one of many serious problems Yemen is facing right now. Estimates have indicated that every 10 minutes, a child in Yemen loses their life because of malnutrition. Around half a million children are experiencing severe starvation with the death toll being 85,000 due to starvation in children. In 2022, predictions indicated that an estimated 450,000 would experience severe malnutrition and possibly die.

Why The Yemen Crisis Matters

Adequate access to resources like food, water and health care is essential to living a healthy life as well as avoiding disease. The people in Yemen have not been able to have adequate access to these essentials for years which is a major problem. Yemen is also the poorest country in the Middle East, making it more difficult for the people there to receive opportunities to live better and healthier lives. They are being affected in all health aspects from being unable to eat or drink enough, to lack of proper medical attention when people are experiencing malnutrition and diseases like malaria and respiratory infections which are very prevalent in Yemen.

UNICEF’s Work

The situation in Yemen calls for an immense amount of support as well as a lot of funding from large stakeholders to help provide aid to the people in Yemen. One effective solution that can help support the people in Yemen is by spreading awareness. UNICEF is a large organization that has helped in assisting Yemen by spreading awareness of the crisis in Yemen and also providing aid. UNICEF’s mission is to provide support to those who are less fortunate.

UNICEF is an organization that helps with global humanitarian problems. It has individuals in the field of medicine and education that are assisting in providing food and education for the children while they have other individuals from UNICEF restabilizing damaged schools and hospitals. While UNICEF has supported Yemen greatly with the aid it was able to provide to
Yemenis there is still more that needs to occur. UNICEF inquires that in order to continue giving its support in Yemen, it need an estimated $484.4 million which it have raised $77.8 million in funding for aid.

Save the Children’s Efforts

Another organization that has supported Yemen is Save the Children. Save the Children is an organization targeted to support children in need. It helps children all around the world with many things like food, education, protection and health. It has been giving support in Yemen to Yemeni children since 1963 and were one of the first organizations to reach out when the war started in 2015.

Looking Ahead

The crisis in Yemen is not a national problem but a global one. They are battling multiple problems. The severity of the crisis Yemenis are experiencing is something that will take years to recover from which means they need all the awareness and support they can get. There is great importance in understanding social determinants of health in public health. This is because the occurrence of many public health issues can be addressed through social determinants of health and can explain why they happen. The heartbreaking state of Yemen is due to the fact they are lacking many of those social determinants and the main forms of support that individuals can give to them is through contacting officials and raising as much awareness as they can.

– Munira Said
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