Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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Hydropower in Namibia

Hydropower in NamibiaNamibia, a small nation in Southern Africa, has begun making strides toward renewable energy, which has dominated its market. The country has a demand of 600 MW but only a generation capacity of 486.5 MW, which is expected to grow as the population increases year after year. The government of Namibia wishes to boost its generation to fulfill its requirements and provide electricity to all educational institutions and health care facilities by 2020. However, in 2024, the country still doesn’t generate even half of what it consumes.

Additionally, Namibia has an electrification rate of 50%. However, this doesn’t display the full picture as there is a huge disparity between urban and rural areas. Urban areas have an electrification rate of 72% and the rural regions only have a rate of 21%. With more than 46% of people living in rural areas, many citizens lack options. At the time, there was truly no hope for the Namibia population. However, all hope is not lost. The International Renewable Energy Agency researched the situation of South Africa and Namibia in particular and found that focusing on renewable energy could be the solution to Namibia’s energy poverty. With nearly 21.6% of Namibians unemployed, equipping these workers with the training required could also ease the unemployment rate.

Namibia’s Renewable Energy Initiative

In 2021, the government of Namibia passed the Second Harambee Prosperity Plan (HPPII). The HPPII is a government-powered group of targeted policies aimed at providing enhanced services, boosting the economy, combatting poverty and engendering inclusive growth. The push for this campaign came after the country was found struggling after the pandemic.

This initiative was intended to completely reform the country from how it handled conflict with other countries to how to deliver electricity to its people. The initiative also builds on Namibia’s current energy production while ensuring that the country prioritizes clean, renewable energy.

Currently, Namibia produces most of its energy in a renewable fashion through hydropower. Roughly two-thirds of the country’s energy production comes from hydropower. Specifically, four power stations produce approximately 60% of the country’s energy, leaving the population vulnerable if one shuts down. The current plan is to slowly build more solar and hydropower projects to boost the country’s production and decrease the reliance on any project and other countries for energy. 

Namibia has a unique geographical advantage that makes it perfect for solar projects. With a lack of dense areas and an abundance of flat land that receives a lot of sunlight, Namibia can drastically increase its production through the use of solar farms. Additionally, this can bring in many new high-skilled jobs.

Conclusion

While renewable energy in Namibia is still an emerging market, it has the potential to completely shift the narrative of the country. It can provide millions of jobs and lift many people out of poverty while providing clean electricity to the population. By harnessing its unique hydropower and solar advantage, Namibia can meet its energy needs and achieve much more.

– Aman Chaudhary
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Papatoetoe Food Hub Fights Food Insecurity in South Auckland

Papatoetoe Food Hub Fights Food Insecurity in South AucklandSouth Auckland, a highly diverse region of New Zealand, is home to numerous Māori communities like mana whenua and Pacific, Asian and European ethnic groups. Each of these groups holds significant food traditions that currently face the risk of increasing food insecurity. Data from the area reveal that one in seven children come from families facing moderate to severe food insecurity, with 30% of Māori children affected. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated food insecurity in South Auckland, with a local food bank reporting that most of its food parcel recipients were individuals who lost their jobs due to the pandemic.

Traditional Food Practices

Land ownership, or the lack thereof, has severely affected indigenous communities’ ability to access and cultivate food. This is especially true for Māori communities, where colonization and urbanization have hindered their ability to gather and prepare traditional kai (food). In addition, the respectful use of whenua (land) is central to food cultivation in these communities. However, maintaining these values is becoming more challenging in the context of contemporary food systems. Consequently, the struggle of indigenous communities to engage in environmentally friendly farming practices is a major factor in escalating food insecurity.

The Papatoetoe Food Hub

The Papatoetoe Food Hub set up shop in South Auckland to provide sustainable and affordable meals to the community while embracing traditional values of community and environmental stewardship. A key focus, as reported by the Food Hub, is promoting knowledge exchange on growing, harvesting and maintaining crops. To this end, it conducts on-site lessons about indigenous cooking methods. The hub also prioritizes sustainable food practices aligned with Māori values, rescuing and repurposing 18.6 tons of food between September 2019 and May 2021.

A Community-Led Success Story

The Papatoetoe Food Hub adopts a community-led strategy, working in close collaboration with local schools, universities and government agencies to benefit its local community. Knowledge Auckland conducted interviews with 30 individuals about the hub, seeking to understand its impact. The study revealed the value generated by every dollar spent at the hub:

  • $0.55 goes to the team, comprised of people hired from local communities.
  • $0.38 goes to the local economy, including the purchase of ingredients from local suppliers.
  • $0.07 goes toward government infrastructure.

Julio Bin of the Southern Initiative observed, “The Food Hub is a tangible demonstration of how we can do things differently.” Meanwhile, a local mom emphasized, “They base the menu on what the community wants.” The Papatoetoe Food Hub continues to thrive, attracting an increasing number of patrons and even received endorsement from former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. The hub aims to build on this success, with local stakeholder Gael Surgenor noting, “The biggest impact is yet to come.”

Looking Forward

The Papatoetoe Food Hub exemplifies the power of community-driven solutions in combating food insecurity while preserving cultural heritage. Addressing food insecurity in South Auckland, the hub intertwines traditional values with modern sustainable practices. It offers a beacon of hope for diverse communities, showcasing a scalable model for others to follow.

– Kayleigh O’Brien

Kayleigh is based in Leeds, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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From Pond to Plate: Aquaculture in Zambia Is Transforming Lives

Aquaculture in ZambiaIn Zambia, a landlocked country in southern Africa, fish serve as more than just sustenance; they are the very foundation of livelihoods. More than  30% of the country’s animal protein is derived from fish. As the population grows, the imperative of cultivating aquaculture in Zambia grows ever more pronounced, emerging as a pivotal conduit for securing food security and economic stability, especially within rural communities.

With the strategic interventions of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the collaborative efforts of government initiatives, Zambia is poised to harness the potential of its growing aquaculture sector. The nation aims not only to meet the nutritional needs of its populace but also to drive sustainable development while safeguarding its resources for generations.

The Prospects of Aquaculture in Zambia

Zambia is a prominent figure in Sub-Saharan Africa’s aquaculture landscape, standing as one of the continent’s leading producers of farmed fish. Within the agricultural sector, fisheries contribute significantly, constituting 3.2% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). The nation boasts an annual production of 75,500 tons of tilapia, marking a nearly 10,000% increase since 1986. Despite this impressive growth trajectory, the demand for fish shows no signs of abating. Projections indicate a need for an additional 71,591 tons of fish by 2030 to meet the country’s surging population demand.

Zambia remains a net importer of fish, highlighting the persistent challenge of bridging the supply-demand gap in this vital sector. Therefore, the country stands to reap substantial macroeconomic benefits from expanding its aquaculture industry. By fostering growth in fisheries and enhancing common practices, the nation is primed not only to attain agricultural independence but also to address the pressing challenge of food insecurity, which affects 48% of the population. Recent research by the University of Stirling demonstrates the pivotal role aquaculture plays in bolstering food security in Zambia.

However, the expansion of the aquaculture industry holds promise beyond enhancing food production; it has the potential to alleviate poverty by creating employment opportunities and increasing incomes directly. Moreover, it facilitates coherent community development measures, offering a new avenue for revenue generation for entire lakeside towns. Aquaculture in Zambia often synergizes with crop agriculture, leveraging the fertile conditions and irrigation opportunities provided by lakes, fostering income diversification and growth. To ensure that farmers and fishermen can fully harness the benefits of aquaculture, various domestic and international initiatives are in place to provide support and assistance.

Zambian Government Initiatives

For decades, the Zambian government has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of the aquaculture industry. In 2004, the introduction of the National Aquaculture Development Strategy (NADS) signaled a concerted effort to provide guidelines and support for private sector-led growth aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and bolstering production. Additionally, the establishment of the centralized Department of Fisheries underscores the government’s commitment to the sector, with five aquaculture centers positioned across the country.

These centers are tasked with conducting feasibility studies and research, particularly concerning fish nutrition and species selection, to drive innovation and sustainable development. Moreover, the Agriculture Commercialization Programme (ACP) offers low-risk financial services to farmers and fishermen, as well as provides a gateway to access relevant technologies.

Ultimately, the Zambian government’s commitment to empowering its fisheries and rural population is not only a testament to its dedication to food security but also to uplifting its most vulnerable citizens. By providing entrepreneurial and employment opportunities, initiatives like the ACP contribute significantly to poverty alleviation in Zambia.

Foreign Investment in Aquaculture

Foreign aid, particularly from USAID, plays a crucial role in fortifying aquaculture in Zambia as well. Through initiatives like feasibility tests, USAID provides invaluable insights into the profitability of aquaculture ventures, demonstrating that even modest investments can yield substantial returns.

For example, one such test revealed that the input costs for a 500 square meter pond, approximately $1,000, offer an impressive 42.38% internal rate of return.

USAID’s aquaculture initiatives in Zambia extend beyond research. For instance, the Farmer-to-Farmer (F2F) program facilitates access to emerging technologies, enhancing the quality and quantity of fish and produce available in local markets.

Similarly, FishFirst! Zambia and the USAID-Mississippi State University partnership at Zambia’s Feed The Future Innovation Lab for Fish prioritize research on fish nutrition and the development of fish-based products, such as instant porridge, which has notable potential for both domestic consumption and international export. These efforts not only promote entrepreneurship but also contribute directly to improved nutritional outcomes for rural communities.

Additionally, USAID programs equip rural Zambians with educational resources, imparting knowledge on the nutritional benefits of various fish species and offering practical guidance through recipe handbooks. Ultimately, foreign investment plays a pivotal role in augmenting food security and reducing poverty in Zambia by fostering innovation, education and economic opportunities.

Final Remark

Aquaculture in Zambia offers a promising avenue for sustainable economic growth and poverty alleviation as the country moves into the future. With support from domestic and international channels, there is immense potential for the expansion of the vital industry. With continued investment and collaboration, Zambia’s fisheries can play a pivotal role in achieving broader development goals and alleviating poverty through the creation of long-term, sustainable and profitable employment opportunities.

– Matthew Candau

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

Photo: Flickr

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Project HOPE: Primary Care Amid Haiti’s Health Care Crisis

Project HOPEAs the largest island in the western Atlantic, Haiti lies at the core of the Caribbean hurricane belt. Its treeless landscape amplifies its susceptibility to natural disasters, making it particularly prone to cyclones, floods, droughts and landslides. With a population of roughly 11.4 million, these environmental hazards pose significant risks to more than 96% of the island’s residents. Project HOPE radiates a beacon of hope across oceans with its unwavering commitment to tackling some of the globe’s most pressing public health challenges.

Haiti: A Brief History of Health Care Challenges

Since the ’80s, Project HOPE has been dedicated to aiding the people of Haiti, encompassing initiatives in maternal and child health alongside emergency interventions. Through its swift mobilization of emergency relief efforts and sustained commitment, Project HOPE has played a pivotal role in facilitating the recovery of Haiti’s health care system for enduring resilience.

The organization remains unwavering in its dedication to fortifying Haiti’s fragile health care infrastructure amid the island’s tumultuous history and prevailing struggles. As a steadfast ally, Project HOPE extends a lifeline of aid to a nation teetering on the brink of a humanitarian crisis.

Natural Disasters

The catastrophic 2010 earthquake, which claimed the lives of more than 300,000 people and obliterated 60% of the health care facilities, continues to cast a long shadow over the Caribbean island. In 2016, Hurricane Matthew compounded the damages by decimating thousands of homes and vast swathes of the region’s farmland.

Cholera Outbreaks

Frequent floods and vulnerability to earthquakes have exacerbated cholera outbreaks on the island. The disease thrives in conditions of poor water quality, inadequate waste disposal and declining hygiene standards. According to Relief Web,  more than 820,000 cholera cases were reported in Haiti between October 2010 and February 2019.

In 2022, another cholera outbreak prompted Project HOPE to take action. Its efforts included supplying clinics with essential water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) materials, distributing hygiene kits, and training community health workers. Additionally, in January 2023, the organization initiated a multi-sectoral program funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in response to the epidemic.

Since August 2021: Project Hope’s Impact

In recent years, the nonprofit organization has adapted its strategies to address the evolving needs of the community amid the rise of gang warfare. Haiti’s health care crisis extends far beyond its disaster-prone geography, deeply rooted in a tumultuous history of political turmoil and the pervasive presence of gangs. Recent reports indicate that approximately 80% of the capital city, Port-au-Prince, is now under gang control. This multifaceted crisis has resulted in hospitals being set ablaze, medical personnel facing targeted violence, widespread roadblocks disrupting health care access, soaring malnutrition rates and alarming increases in maternal and elderly mortality.

In May 2023, Project HOPE undertook a thorough assessment of Haiti’s Grand Sud region, uncovering significant findings. More than half of the participants reported journeys of an hour to access health care facilities, with limited financial resources identified as the main hindrance. Additionally, nearly half of the surveyed women lacked access to health service facilities for childbirth. It grappled with recurrent shortages of vital medications and deficiencies in staff training. Moreover, health facilities encountered challenges in reaching areas afflicted by high malnutrition rates due to the lack of mobile medical units.

Mobile Health Care Units: A Beacon of Hope

Project HOPE’s mobile medical units (MMUs) have emerged as indispensable assets, especially in areas controlled by gangs where access to traditional health facilities is hindered, exacerbating poverty and further impeding access to essential services. These MMUs have become lifelines for communities grappling with such challenges.

Transportation routes crippled by roadblocks have made it difficult for Haitians to reach health care centers and for facilities to acquire necessary medical supplies, fuels and pharmaceuticals. A surge in internal displacement, particularly from the capital toward the southern regions, has intensified the demand for assistance.

Amid understaffed, underfunded and underresourced health facilities, mobile clinics have played a crucial role in providing essential services to vulnerable and rural communities. These include protective services and hygiene promotion activities. Additionally, Project HOPE’s MMU offers medical consultations, prescriptions and care for mental health patients and victims of gender-based violence.

From October to December 2023, Project HOPE’s MMU operated almost daily, treating more than 45,000 patients in the Sud, Nippes and Grand’Anse departments. With sustained support from USAID, two mobile clinics will be held weekly in the Nippes department, ensuring access to vital health care services for the community.

– Irene Suvillaga
Photo: Flickr

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Tackling Poverty Among People With Disabilities in Niger

People With Disabilities in NigerIn Niger, disability affects a significant portion of the population, with approximately 4.2% of individuals living with disabilities, according to the African Disability Rights Yearbook. Sadly, these individuals often face social exclusion, hindering their ability to thrive and participate fully in economic activities. However, various initiatives are underway to promote inclusivity and empower people with disabilities in Niger. From targeted programs focusing on children and girls to collaborative efforts with international organizations, the country is striving to ensure equal opportunities for all its citizens, regardless of ability.

Societal Inclusion as a Strategy in Niger

Humanity & Inclusion (HI) is actively expanding its efforts in Niger to support individuals affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters. The organization is working to facilitate the socioeconomic advancement of people with disabilities through greater societal inclusion. It involves conducting research studies to identify the specific needs of individuals with disabilities and understand the barriers they encounter in achieving success when these needs are unmet.

The objective of these studies is to foster broader societal awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities. HI collaborates closely with local organizations, institutions and humanitarian actors to advocate for the integration of people with disabilities into society. Additionally, the organization is dedicated to ensuring that children with disabilities have access to primary education and the opportunity to pursue secondary education upon completion of their studies.

Programs for People With Disabilities in Niger

The government of Niger, along with international institutions, has implemented initiatives to support education and employment programs for individuals with disabilities. The Niger Learning Improvement for Results in Education Project, backed by $230 million, aims to improve educational access by constructing learning facilities, training educators and refining teaching methods nationwide.

Specifically, the project allocates funds for the construction of boarding schools and classrooms to facilitate girls’ access to education. Additionally, the Disability Inclusion Strategy, integrated into the International Organization for Migrant’s existing efforts, outlines the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities. This strategy emphasizes enhancing educational opportunities, particularly for girls who historically faced barriers to schooling.

Niger is committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive and contribute to the economy. Furthermore, initiatives such as the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, one of many policies in Niger, strive for equal opportunities and societal integration by aligning with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

International Organization for Migration

In Niger, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has organized various initiatives to connect individuals with disabilities to employment opportunities. One notable event was the observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2019. Collaborating with local organizations in Agadez and Tahoua, the aim was to promote the societal inclusion of people with disabilities as outlined in the 2030 Agenda. The event featured conferences, presentations by local organizations, film screenings, bicycle races and poetry readings, all aimed at fostering integration and awareness.

– Ryan Patrick
Photo: Flickr

Fighting disability and poverty in Guinea-Bissau 

Disability and poverty in Guinea-Bissau A former Portuguese colony, Guinea-Bissau, has been affected by chronic instability since achieving independence in 1974. As of September 2023, Disability and poverty is chronic and 64.4% of the population in Guinea-Bissau live below the poverty line. A surprising 68% cannot afford a healthy and nutritious diet. Children and adults with disabilities, in particular, face major barriers, given prejudice and negative social norms with disability and poverty in Guinea-Bissau.

According to a mapping process that the Federation of Associations for the Defense and Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Guinea-Bissau developed, as of 2021, there are 11,548 people with disabilities in all regions of the country. However, Oio has the highest number of people living with disabilities. Specifically, around 16% of children between the ages of 5 and 17 have been found to live with some form of disability.

In light of this, international organizations like the World Food Programme (WFP), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Humanity & Inclusion (HI) are partnering up with government officials and local organizations to combat the looming poverty and stigma among Guinea-Bissau youth living with disabilities.

Guinea-Bissau’s Barriers to a Fulfilling Life

Disability and poverty in Guinea-Bissau are intricately linked phenomena, reinforcing each other. In Guinea-Bissau, people living with disabilities experience higher levels of poverty, malnutrition and social marginalization. This is because low- and middle-income countries, in particular, tend to have inadequate access to essential resources and services such as health care, clean water, sanitation and nutritious food. Consequently, this leads to exclusion from work, education and social services, thus widening inequalities and exacerbating poverty.

In fact, it is estimated that at least 59% of youth with disabilities do not attend school. Education and social inclusion have become profound realities for many people living with disabilities in Guinea-Bissau. However, like numerous countries in the region, the nation still grapples with cultural discrimination against people with disabilities.

Throughout West Africa, there persist prevailing beliefs that children with disabilities are “bizarre” or “demonic,” resulting in countless stories of neglect, discrimination and ostracization. These cultural beliefs are often deeply influenced by religious backgrounds. In the rural areas of Guinea-Bissau, children with disabilities usually endure heightened levels of social marginalization. It hinders their access to education and, in some cases, leads to their confinement within their homes.

Disability Inclusive School Feeding

Inclusive approaches to children’s rights remain vital in combating high illiteracy rates. They are also beneficial for extreme inequalities between urban and rural areas. Children with disabilities are at much greater risk of malnutrition and food insecurity. As a result, organizations have shifted focus toward education and food security as a way to promote disability rights and inclusive education. According to WFP’s 2023 Practice Guide on “Disability Inclusive School Feeding,” “countries with high levels of malnutrition and nutrient deficiency often report higher rates of disability and developmental delays.”

School feeding has emerged as an innovative solution to addressing disability and poverty in Guinea-Bissau. Providing access to education and free nutritious meals has empowered children living with disabilities and their families, instilling hope for a brighter future.

In collaboration with the government and various nonprofit organizations, the WFP has spearheaded initiatives to support the integration and well-being of children with disabilities into the public school system. One initiative is Bengala Branca, Guinea-Bissau’s inaugural inclusive school catering to both children with and without disabilities.

Additionally, Mariposa is a school located in Guinea-Bissau’s capital that offers specialized education for hearing and speech-impaired learners. The school now integrates the WFP’s take-home rations program for students. Since May 2023, a pilot program has been actively establishing vegetable gardens in schools, including Mariposa, for children with disabilities. This initiative involves providing training for youth, enabling them to procure locally produced food and learn more about self-sufficiency and food diversity.

WFP provides nutritious and hot meals to nearly 179,000 primary school children in Guinea-Bissau, including those with disabilities. In a concerted attempt to tackle disability and poverty in Guinea-Bissau, along with entrenched prejudice and discrimination, the WFP’s project Education Without Borders, launched in 2020, has now successfully reached all 852 schools in the country.

Other Efforts

Other efforts have also been witnessed across Guinea-Bissau. Between 2020 and 2022, HI actively worked to increase access to education among children with disabilities by improving the accessibility of school canteens. Additionally, it conducted campaigns to raise awareness of disability issues in the regions of Bissau, Oio, Bafata, Biombo and Cacheu.

Despite having feeding programs, schools in the country frequently lack training on inclusive education and equality. They also lack accessible-friendly school infrastructure, including sanitation facilities, which makes it difficult for students with disabilities to attend.

To address this issue, UNICEF, in collaboration with HI, has directly supported the construction of WASH infrastructure in 27 schools. Under the sanitation and hygiene program, UNICEF has also trained approximately 3,000 teachers in disability accessibility. This is in addition to creating initiatives that include inclusive hygiene clubs. These steps help to reduce some of the sanitation-related barriers that prevent children with disabilities from enrolling and attending school.

– Irene Suvillaga
Photo: Flickr

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Udaan’s Efforts in Nepal: Giving Girls a Second Chance

Udaan's Efforts in Nepal: Giving Girls a Second ChanceWomen constitute more than half of Nepal’s population, yet they reside in a society where traditional norms frequently restrict girls’ access to education. However, Udaan’s efforts in Nepal aim to change this reality. The Udaan project, translating to flight or soar in Nepali, represents a transformative effort to educate and empower girls.

The Challenges Girls Face in Nepal

According to the Educational Equality Institute, societal norms, affordability issues and a lack of parental motivation hinder girls’ access to education in Nepal. Notably, 5.1% of Nepal’s population lived on $1.90 a day in 2022 and 20.27% lived below the poverty line in 2023. Poverty increases the likelihood of children, especially girls, dropping out of school. Approximately 18% of Nepalese children do not complete primary education, with girls making up 49% of this group. Parents often prioritize marriage over education for their daughters, believing they cannot secure jobs to support their parents in the future, unlike their sons. This mindset leads to many girls leaving school early, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.

Transformative Education through UDAAN

Udaan has become a driving force for change, offering girls a chance to overcome societal barriers and chase their dreams. The project delivers comprehensive support through scholarships, mentorship programs and community engagement efforts. These scholarships pay for tuition, books, snacks and other educational expenses, eliminating financial hurdles and allowing girls to continue their education without interruption. Aimed at girls aged 9 to 14, Udaan features an intensive 11-month curriculum designed to challenge damaging social norms and provide a stable, secure environment for girls’ education. This enables them to catch up on missed education and rejoin the public school system within a year.

Udaan’s Efforts in Nepal: Shaping the Future

Beyond offering education to girls, Udaan also aims to prevent child marriage by providing quality education. This empowers them to make informed life decisions, secure sustainable jobs and support themselves and their families. As Udaan expands its impact, the outlook for girls in Nepal is bright. Empowering each girl to follow her dreams and contribute to her community, Udaan’s influence reaches well beyond the classroom, fostering a more equitable and inclusive society for future generations.

Looking Forward

Udaan’s comprehensive approach promises a brighter future for girls in Nepal, breaking the chains of poverty and gender bias. Udaan’s efforts in Nepal are pivotal to this mission. Through education and empowerment, this initiative paves the way for young women to achieve their potential and contribute significantly to their communities. The ripple effects of their success are bound to foster greater gender equality and economic development across Nepal. As these girls soar to new heights, they exemplify the transformative power of education in shaping societies.

– Erika David

Erika David is based in Union, NJ, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Disability and Poverty in Greece

Disability and Poverty in GreeceDisability and poverty can affect many areas around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 1.3 billion people have disabilities worldwide. Unfortunately, many people with disabilities often suffer from poverty as well. The combination of these two forces is a plight a lot harsher than many think. Disability and poverty in Greece is a struggle, but work is being done to address the challenges. 

The Link Between Disability and Poverty in Greece

The country has particular issues with access when it comes to disability and poverty in Greece. According to a policy brief done by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in 2021, people with disabilities deal with problems in getting the appropriate health care they need. The report cites how people have to resort to private health care because of the lack of public health care. Private health care is generally more expensive and is an option that impoverished people likely do not have.

Greece also has issues with children who have disabilities. Children who have what is described as physical disabilities often do not have the correct equipment to support them in classrooms. The education system in Greece also lacks sufficient personnel to help children who have physical and mental disabilities.

The theme of access for people with disabilities appears to extend to various areas in Greece. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Confederation of Disabled People Greece reported in 2020 that there was a lack of assistance provided to physically disabled individuals who were confined to their homes during the crisis.

In Greece, the majority of people with disabilities face challenges due to inadequate access to physical buildings. This encompasses a lack of access to buildings, transportation and mainstream areas. It’s crucial to highlight that, according to the U.S. Department of State, such access is mandated by law. Further, according to the report, some governmental agencies within Greece stated that certain work companies excluded people who have disabilities from jobs. This includes hiring boards looking over people who have disabilities.

Actions to Help

Tactics like these are what inadvertently cause people with disabilities to fall into instances of poverty. The disability unemployment rate rose to 31.1% in 2018 from 8.9% in 2002, with predictions of the pandemic to increase the number, according to the European Commission report on disability equality in 2021.

Greece is working to solve the issue of disability and poverty in the country. In 2021, the government launched the Child Guarantee Program in partnership with UNICEF. The program is designed to support children who have disabilities in getting the quality social services they need. Together for Children, a network of different aid organizations, also provided aid for those with intellectual disabilities.

The initiative has contacted more than 2000 families to help these young people. The Upraise Disability project also helped many people with disabilities in terms of online access. The project helped around 17 people get the assistance they needed through online programs, including things like access to their therapy, among other things, during the pandemic.

– Madison McCray
Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Mental Health in Lesotho

Mental Health in LesothoThe Kingdom of Lesotho is located in South Africa and has a population of two million. Right now, the country is facing its own unique set of struggles and issues. Concentrated areas are often poverty-stricken due to limited employment opportunities, lack of access to necessities and services, as well as high vulnerability to environmental and economic crises. About 24% of citizens in Lesotho live in extreme poverty, while around 580,000 citizens suffer from food insecurity. Additionally, Lesotho has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world at 22.7% as of 2023, as well as a high rate of tuberculosis, which is greatly affecting the health of the country’s already limited health care workers.

These problems compromise the state of mental health in Lesotho. In fact, the latest report shows that the country had one of the highest rates of suicide in the world for that year, with 87.5 suicide-related deaths for every 100,000 deaths. These numbers are alarming and justify claims that state that there is a mental health crisis in Lesotho. The existence of such a severe mental health crisis serves as a testament to the challenges and stressors endured by the Basotho people.

Despite the acknowledgment of such a crisis, many Basotho will not seek help, whereas many others cannot afford to do so. Lesira Rampa, a Lesotho native, wrote, “Unfortunately, there are numerous challenges in accessing mental health treatment in Lesotho, as evident from the alarming suicide statistics. Despite facing stigma, we encounter several problems, including a shortage of mental health care services and limited financial resources to afford expensive treatments.” In light of these obstacles that prevent Lesotho citizens from accessing mental health services, many organizations such as Help Lesotho, Dolen Cymru and Sentebale are working within the country to assist those in need.

Increasing the Number of Mental Health Care Providers

Lesotho has been suffering from what experts call a “brain drain,” which is the emigration of trained professionals from their country of origin to other countries in order to find jobs. This brain drain has made it difficult for Lesotho to retain a stable number of health care workers, causing a great amount of strain on the physicians and nurses who choose to stay. This shortage has detrimentally impacted the quality and quantity of mental health services available to those suffering from mental illnesses.

Paul Myres, Vice-President of the nonprofit organization Dolen Cymru, told The Borgen Project in an interview that, currently, there are no psychiatrists in Lesotho. In order to remedy this issue, Dolen Cymru administers mental health training, which was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), to upskill general health care providers within the country. Myres describes the training program as a WHO-designed, multi-professional training program that Dolen Cymru was tasked with implementing. It involved just five days of instruction and relied heavily on algorithms, with a structured approach of asking questions to gather patient information and proceeding accordingly based on the responses.

More than 100 health practitioners received this training, which has aided in improving the understanding of mental health among general Lesotho nurses and doctors. Myres says that the philosophy of Dolen Cymru is to capacitate rather than to provide direct care. Such a unique and innovative philosophy can prove effective in empowering citizens to seek out more information on mental health concerns while preserving their dignity.

One-On-One and Group Counseling

There are a generous number of organizations working in Lesotho to provide help during this mental health crisis, each with its unique approach. Help Lesotho is an organization that focuses on providing one-on-one and group counseling to those in need. Help Lesotho offers a range of non-intensive and long-term intensive self-help and life-skills programs. Its variety of programs is designed to benefit parents, children and communities. These programs address mental health concerns stemming from issues such as poverty, grief and loss, HIV/AIDs and much more.

In 2023, Help Lesotho’s long-term intensive programs had more than 2,000 participants and the organization had one-on-one psychosocial support conversations with more than 960 people. Those who received assistance and guidance from Help Lesotho noticed an increase in confidence, a new-found sense of belonging and a desire to inspire others.

Stigmas: Obstacles To Providing Mental Health Support

Although several organizations are addressing the need for mental health services in Lesotho, certain obstacles can stand in the way of their efforts. It is especially difficult to reverse the effects of the social stigmas surrounding mental health in Lesotho. Meyers mentioned in his interview with The Borgen Project that mental health issues are often seen as a punishment in Lesotho, either for the individual or even their parent’s behavior.

Ms. Mota, a psychiatric nurse at Mohlomi Hospital, has spoken out about these stigmas, stating that “Because of misconceptions and stigma surrounding mental health issues, people sometimes suffer in silence and do not seek treatment for their conditions.”

Thankfully, training and programs such as the ones offered by Dolen Cymru can help reduce the influence of such stigmas. Meyers says that when trainers ask doctors to come up with a list of words describing their initial response to mental health, fear is always at the top of the list. “The good news,” he says, “is that by the end of the week, we ask the same question and that’s all gone.”

Conclusion

Lesotho, just like any country, has its own unique set of stressors and difficulties. Fortunately, organizations such as Dolen Cymru and Help Lesotho are going to great lengths to provide Lesotho with the assistance it needs. However, there is definitely still work to be done.

– Kimber Peters
Photo: Pexels

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Cultivating Hope: Urban Farming in São Paulo

Urban Farming in São PauloAs one of the largest cities in the world, São Paulo faces numerous challenges, including poverty, food insecurity and environmental degradation. However, innovative initiatives centered around urban agriculture are offering a ray of hope for its residents. The movement to make urban areas greener and more sustainable has been gaining ground in Brazil and worldwide since the early 2000s. Moreso, urban farming in São Paulo is emerging as a pivotal strategy to address ongoing issues, highlighting its growing importance in the city’s efforts to improve the quality of life for its residents.

Urban Farming in São Paulo

Urban farming refers to growing fruits, vegetables and herbs within urban areas, utilizing limited space such as rooftops, vacant lots and community gardens. In São Paulo, where access to fresh, nutritious food can be scarce in low-income neighborhoods, urban farming initiatives are playing a crucial role in addressing food deserts and improving food security. By bringing agriculture closer to urban dwellers, these initiatives reduce the distance food needs to travel from farm to table, thereby lowering costs and increasing accessibility.

Despite the numerous benefits of urban farming, it still faces challenges and limitations. Land tenure issues, limited access to resources and bureaucratic hurdles can hinder the scalability and sustainability of urban farming initiatives. In addition, the unequal distribution of wealth and resources within the city exacerbates existing disparities, making it difficult for some communities to fully engage with urban farming efforts.

Environmental Impact of Urban Farming

Urban farming in São Paulo has environmental benefits that extend beyond its economic and social impacts. By converting vacant lots into green spaces, urban farms help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality and promote biodiversity. Additionally, these initiatives often employ sustainable farming practices such as composting, rainwater harvesting and organic cultivation methods, thereby reducing the city’s ecological footprint and enhancing its resilience to climate change.

Hortelões Urbanos

The Hortelões Urbanos network or Urban Horticulturists, stands out as a leading initiative in São Paulo. Its members champion food autonomy and strive to lessen reliance on traditional farming practices, agribusiness and large retailers. Key principles of the network include fostering equal partnerships between rural and urban communities and opposing the adverse effects of agribusiness on natural resources, transportation, excessive packaging, waste production and labor exploitation.

Nagib and Nakamura report that initiatives like these promote the sharing of experiences and information about urban agriculture, whether at the household or community level. Involving residents in the cultivation process fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment within these communities.

Urban farming in São Paulo offers economic opportunities for vulnerable populations, thereby contributing to poverty alleviation. Through training programs and cooperatives, individuals living in impoverished areas are equipped with the knowledge and resources to grow their food or even start small-scale agricultural businesses. By selling surplus produce at local markets or participating in community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, urban farmers can potentially generate additional income, thus reducing their reliance on expensive store-bought groceries and improving their financial stability.

Looking Ahead

Urban farming offers significant potential as a strategy for reducing poverty and developing communities in São Paulo. The ongoing initiatives enhance access to fresh food, generate economic opportunities and promote environmental sustainability, presenting a comprehensive solution to the intricate issues urban populations encounter. As São Paulo expands and progresses, urban farming is poised to play a crucial role in the city’s endeavors to create a more equitable and resilient environment for all residents.

– Rhys Woodward

Rhys is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr