Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

Tropical General Investments (TGI) and Rice Production in Nigeria

TGINigeria faces a pressing economic challenge as food inflation continues to rise. In 2017, the surge in pricing prompted Nigeria’s Tropical General Investments (TGI) investment and holding company to pivot toward domestic rice production as a strategic solution. As of June 2023, the food inflation rate in Nigeria was 25.09%, a 4.55% increase over June 2022. This uptick raised alarms about food security and heightened the overall cost of living in Nigeria. Today, TGI plays a pivotal role in mitigating the challenges posed by escalating food inflation through its visionary rice production plan.

TGI’s Rice Production Plan in Action

In response to the escalating crisis, TGI implemented a strategic plan to boost domestic rice production, reducing the country’s reliance on imported rice and therefore controlling the cost. The company invested in modern rice mills and, in collaboration with local farmers, established over 70 rice mills in 2021. In addition to meeting the rising demand for rice, this move stimulated economic growth by creating employment opportunities within the agriculture sector.

In its first four years, TGI created 2,000 jobs in Nigeria and exported $280,000 in rice, benefiting local communities by reducing unemployment. Through a recent partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), it plans to create 60,000 more jobs and produce an additional 20,000 tons of rice.

Results and Impact of TGI on the Nigerian Economy

In a span of two years, the company significantly increased its rice production capacity, meeting a substantial portion of the domestic demand. TGI’s rice production plan not only contributed to stabilizing rice prices, but also played a role in reducing overall food inflation rates. As of July 2022, Nigeria’s rice imports fell over 98%, with the country only importing 15 metric tons, compared to 957 metric tons in past years.

Conclusion

TGI’s rice production plan stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing the transformative power of private-sector initiatives in the face of economic challenges. Through a strategic emphasis on enhancing domestic rice production, TGI has tackled the pressing issue of rising food prices, created a profitable export product and contributed to Nigeria’s overall economic stability.

– Quinn Higby
Photo: Pixabay

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Chagas Disease: Unveiling the Silent Struggle

Chagas DiseaseChagas Disease (CD) is a tropical disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. In 2022, The Bolivian Chagas Network reported that approximately 7 million people are infected with CD and 25 million are at risk of infection. More than one million of these cases stemmed from Bolivia, the country that retained the highest rate of CD in the world.

The Impact of Chagas Disease

There is no vaccine against CD, but if detected in the initial acute phase it can be treated.

The disease mostly spreads as a result of vector-borne transmission. These blood-sucking bugs, called triatomine, bite an infected animal or person and pass the parasites on to humans via feces. These bugs also tend to bite people’s faces, and are therefore referred to as “Kissing Bugs.”

CD can also be transmitted via blood and organ donation as also congenital transmission, from a pregnant woman to her baby. Contraction of CD in the initial phase presents as mild flu-like symptoms and in the later stages can lead to cardiac, digestive and neurological alterations. It has been detected in 21 countries in Latin America and is endemic to this region. In November 2023, The Global Health Innovative Technology Fund reported, that in comparison to all other parasitic diseases in the Americas, CD carried the largest burden of disability-adjusted life years.

The Bolivian Chagas Platform

In 2009, The Bolivian Chagas Platform was formed in a bid to control CD. It consisted of both local and international forces with a strong emphasis placed on promoting trans-nationality to allow research to be shared. Groups involved in The Bolivian Chagas Platform included ISGlobal, CEADES, AECID and the Bolivian National Chagas Program.

Originally piloted in three of Bolivia’s most affected regions, Cochabamba, Tarija and Chuquisaca, a specific strategy was implemented in seven centers to begin with. The four focus areas were: providing care, training health personnel, performing research and engaging with the community.

Due to the success of the pilot program, the operation was scaled up and extended to a further 52 centers.

The results of the Platform have been positive and have improved the care for CD at both national and international levels.

Detecting Chagas Disease

The existence of the Bolivian Chagas Platform centers has facilitated the screening of more patients, resulting in the detection of a greater number of CD cases. CD is often referred to as a “silent disease” as infected patients present either with no symptoms at all or with ambiguous symptoms resulting in misdiagnosis. If treatment is not given quickly, the damage becomes irreversible, and the patient cannot be cured. Therefore, timely detection of CD to ensure early treatment is crucial to save a person’s life. Furthermore, early detection of the CD helps in its control because transmission is prevented.

Increasing Research and Resources Available

ISGlobal reports that, at present, there are two drugs available for treating CD, nifurtimox and benznidazole. Research studies on this disease have been scarce due to limited resources and funding. As a result, the majority of people infected with CD do not have access to treatment.

The Bolivian Chagas Network reported that of the 57,871 people who tested positive for CD, 32.1% were able to be treated as a result of this platform. Furthermore, 67% of health care workers were given CD training, more resources were provided and detailed research was undertaken.

Whilst the two drugs used to treat CD are highly effective, they were developed over 50 years ago, therefore greater updated research is imperative.

Minimizing the Stigma and Promoting Awareness

Despite 10,000 people dying from Chagas Disease every year, it remains largely unheard of by the general public.

The UN has reported the negative consequences of the stigma associated with CD. Largely people view CD as confined to rural and poorer areas, but this is not the case. ISGlobal reported that in Spain, only an estimated 30% of people with CD are diagnosed and treated.

– Heidi Helen Horgan
Photo: Flickr

Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Investment in Sports

Investment in SportsSport has emerged as a crucial element in the socioeconomic development of nations, with Saudi Arabia establishing itself as an expanding hub for sports events. The impact of Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in sports has contributed to its tourism industry and strengthened its economy.

Economic Impact

In 2018, Saudi Arabia initiated its first major foreign sports investment by signing a ten-year, $100 million per year deal with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Since then, the kingdom has made expenditures to host various sports events, including boxing, tennis, horse racing and Formula 1 races. These ventures are made through the $650 billion Public Investment Fund (PIF), the world’s fifth-largest sovereign wealth fund, which also acquired Newcastle United. The PIF’s investments have also attracted global sports stars through lucrative contracts, exemplified by Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking salary upon joining Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.

Job Creation

The advancement of the sports industry in Saudi Arabia provides employment opportunities in the sports business sector. With more than two-thirds of the population being under the age of 35 and showing a growing interest in sports, there is a rise in both event participation and attendance. Fostering a sports culture contributes to positive global perceptions, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s history, customs and traditions. This cultural enhancement positively impacts the nation’s economic, social, lifestyle and the nation’s health aspects.

The 2020 Ministry of Sport report underscores the industry’s economic significance, generating more than 14,000 jobs, crucial for economic growth and financial independence. Sports club employment has surged by 129% in the last three years, boosted by the introduction of new sports programs. Further, administrative positions witnessed a 156% increase, while career opportunities in sports grew by 114% from 2018 to 2021.

Tourism and Hospitality Impact

Hosting sporting events in the Kingdom has a substantial impact on tourism. It draws a larger number of international visitors and results in heightened expenditures, positively impacting the Saudi economy. In 2020, sports events generated a total revenue of $9.8 million. Moreover, the sports sector contributes to hotel and broader hospitality industry spending. Riyadh’s hotel occupancy rates increased by 58% in the first eight months of 2022 and Jeddah saw a 52% occupancy rate, nearly 13% higher than the previous year.

Reforming Education and Health

Sports for All (SFA) President Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed aims to engage 40% of the Saudi population in physical activity by 2030. Meanwhile, former U.S. Open competitor Kevin Kerns is expanding tennis programs in Saudi schools, impacting more than 70,000 children. Kerns emphasizes tennis as more than a sport, instilling skills like goal-setting, teamwork and valuable life lessons.

Youth Empowerment

Saudi Arabia is investing in empowering its youth through strategic investments in sports. This commitment is evident in the development of sports facilities, academies and grassroots programs, fostering opportunities for aspiring athletes, coaches and sports management professionals. Emphasizing the significance of nurturing talent from the grassroots level, the nation has implemented initiatives to identify and support young athletes across various sports. These efforts, providing essential resources, coaching and facilities, are aimed at cultivating future champions and ensuring a sustainable pipeline of sporting talent.

Beyond the pursuit of victories, Saudi Arabia’s extensive sports investment significantly contributes to shaping the nation’s culture and social cohesion. Sporting events serve as unifying platforms, fostering inclusivity and creating opportunities for those facing economic challenges, exceeding societal divides. This commitment to sports also promotes a healthier lifestyle, contributing to enhanced overall well-being within the population.

Increasing Women’s Rights and Participation

Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in sports is empowering women. It provides opportunities for skill development, new employment, health improvement and leadership growth. This contribution helps in fostering their self-sufficiency and aids in the fight against poverty. The country currently boasts more than 6,000 female athletes and supports 27 women’s sports teams.

The granting of driver’s licenses in 2017 opened new avenues for female athletes, exemplified by Reema Juffali’s participation in an international racing competition in 2019. Additionally, Saudi Arabia hosted its inaugural Ladies European Tour golf tournament in 2020, featuring Saudi women alongside international players. During the same year, there were significant developments, such as the issuance of business licenses for women’s gyms and the authorization of physical education inclusion in schools for girls and boys.

Navigating the Sports Washing Debate

Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in sports has sparked a debate on the practice of “sports washing,” where high-profile sports events are used to divert attention from systematic human rights violations. Led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the government leverages billions from the PIF to host and secure sports deals. This includes events such as the Spanish football Super Cup and potential hosting of major events like the 2034 Asian Games, men’s football World Cup and even the 2035 women’s World Cup.

Despite media restrictions, severe penalties for certain behaviors, migrant-related issues and a lack of labor unions and protests, Saudi Arabia persists in using sports to enhance its global reputation. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in an interview with Fox News, expressed a willingness to continue “sports washing” if it boosts the country’s GDP by 1%, regardless of criticism.

– Ellen Jones
Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Rights in Luxembourg

Women’s Rights in LuxembourgWomen’s rights in Luxembourg have progressed in the last five decades. This progress includes closing the gender pay gap, cultural shifts toward equality in the monarchy, and leveraging the country’s primary industries to invest in resources for women. Because of the high cost of living and significant immigration into Luxembourg, however, poverty for working populations, or in-work poverty, continues to affect more vulnerable demographics, particularly women. The Government of Luxembourg continues to work to address these challenges.

Robust Support for Women’s Rights in Luxembourg

The Luxembourg Government prioritizes equality through the sponsorship of the electoral Ministry of Equality Between Women and Men. These efforts have seen significant success: at -.2%, Luxembourg has the lowest gender pay gap in the world.

The Grand Duchess, Maria Teresa, puts the protection of women’s rights in Luxembourg at the “heart of her social and humanitarian engagements”. Duchess Teresa started an initiative in 2019 to support victims of domestic violence and abuse.

Beyond government, Luxembourg is leveraging its expertise in international finance to vie for women’s rights. The Government of Luxembourg kickstarted a 3-year partnership with U.N. Women to, “catalyze global markets, leverage public-private initiatives and design new financial instruments.”

Among the goals of the partnership are the creation of bonds in the Luxembourg Stock Exchange that invest in gender parity (a category currently occupied by 1% of thematic bonds), as well as moving to align gender-sensitive policy to achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Women and the Working Poor

Although the strides Luxembourg has made have been historic and momentous, there are still areas of struggle unique to its demographics, many of these chiefly affecting women.

Despite having the highest GDP per capita in the European Union, Luxembourg has some of the highest levels of working poverty, particularly for women (ranking 1st in the EU with a 13.5%  poverty rate among working women). However, the overall at risk of poverty rate is lower than the European average. This means that in-work poverty is a more significant challenge for women in Luxembourg than in other countries in the European Union.

Approximately half of Luxembourg’s population is of foreign origin. For both women and men immigrating into the country, they have no voting rights. Working poverty remains a low priority for policymakers as a result. The Luxembourg Chamber of Deputies does address poverty generally however, which can aid in reducing the impacts of in-work poverty on the most sensitive populations, such as immigrants who are employed but affected by in-work poverty.

In-work poverty largely affects single parents, a higher percentage of which are women. The high cost of living, highlighted by housing costs, can contribute to greater poverty levels for those in lower wage quartiles. For 91% of the most disadvantaged households, housing costs can make up more than half of disposable income.

In addition to ongoing Government actions, one nonprofit, Femmes en détresse A.S.B.L provides housing and support for women experiencing violence in addition to legal, social and economic assistance. Located in the city of Luxembourg, Femmes en détresse was founded in June 1979 by a working group of women’s rights activists. Its aim was to create, develop and manage a shelter for women in distress, offering women and their children effective protection against gender based violence. They function as a shelter as well as a national 24/7, 365 hotline to support women in Luxembourg.

On the international level, the Government of Luxembourg joined as a member state to the U.N.’s national action plan. Christened the Luxembourgish Child Guarantee National Action Plan (NAP), the policy intends to focus on reducing poverty by enabling access to housing and education for children of foreign parents, targeting some of the most disadvantaged populations in the country when it comes to poverty.

This is especially significant for women and girls. In Luxembourg, women and girls age 10 and up spend 14.4% of their time on unpaid domestic work. Increasing access to housing can help to bridge this gap as it increases the likelihood of labor-saving technologies such as washing machines and stoves.

Conclusion

Overall, Luxembourg continues to make historic strides toward equality for women in and out of the workplace, and in international markets. The need for ongoing reform to provide infrastructure for the working poor who have immigrated to Luxembourg, policy support for single parents, and continuous focus on increasing legislation championing immigrants are among some of the primary foci for the Government of the State when it comes to women’s rights in Luxembourg in the coming decade.

– Ava Johnson
Photo: Flickr

Adolescent Mental Health in Saint Lucia

Mental Health in Saint LuciaIn 2020, Saint Lucia had a population of 40,200 young people (10-24 years) and they accounted for about 22% of the population. Despite being a high-middle-income nation, Saint Lucia has certain impoverished areas and relatively low living conditions. Compared to adults aged 18 and older (21%), one in three or 35% of children aged 0-17 and 33% of adolescents aged 10-19 lived in poverty. Here is information about how poverty impacted mental health in Saint Lucia.

The Region

Saint Lucia is an island in the Eastern Caribbean between Martinique and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. In 2016, poverty estimates showed that 20.3% of Saint Lucia’s population were poor (or live below $5.50 a day). Saint Lucia maintained their poverty level despite the Great Recession of 2008/2009 and the frequency of extreme weather events in 2010 and 2013. These events made Saint Lucia extremely vulnerable to poverty. The performance of tourism and the agricultural sectors’ recovery also significantly impacted Saint Lucia’s poverty level.

Due to COVID-19, Saint Lucia experienced negative growth, increased unemployment and inflation in 2020, increasing poverty. The pandemic caused an economic downturn in 2020, with a GDP decline of more than 20%, which led to severe employment and income losses. There was a rise in unemployment in 2020, with unemployment rates among women and young people growing the greatest. Food prices in the island nation increased due to supply chain interruptions, and food insecurity worsened among the poor and vulnerable.

Factors Leading to Mental Health Challenges

According to UNICEF, poverty contributed to mental health in Saint Lucia because people lived in “inadequate and unsanitary housing” in low-quality neighborhoods, which are particularly vulnerable to weather-related damage. The people in these neighborhoods were endangered due to the high rates of crime and violence. Obtaining access to high-quality education and other needs such as food, sustainable infrastructure and health care were difficult and influenced mental health in Saint Lucia.

Using data from the 2018 Global School-based Student Health Survey, professionals examined the frequency of suicide behavior and its contributing factors among 1,864 adolescents attending Saint Lucian schools. Suicidal ideation, suicide plan, and suicide attempt showed prevalence rates of 25.5%, 22.1% and 17.5%, respectively. The quality of one’s family life and other negative experiences such as discrimination and exclusion, lack of support and mental health services made the adolescents of Saint Lucia more susceptible to mental health issues.

National Mental Wellness Centre

Mental health services progressed and increased due to the government of the island and South East Asian partners. The first step toward mental health care was the Golden Hope Hospital. In 2010, the National Mental Wellness Centre was replaced by the hospital. With close collaboration between doctors, nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists and social workers, the center offered an extensive style of care. Everyone receives services like free medication and counseling without charge.

Nine of the island’s 34 health centers provide mental health services in addition to the hospital. In 2018, three nurse practitioners with training in psychiatry provided community-based mental health services in regularly scheduled clinics held in each of the nine health centers. There are community-based psychiatric in-patient units and day treatment centers.

Mental Health Improvement

With the National Mental Wellness Centre, complications and challenges still exist. Complications include shortages of hospital beds and lack of alternatives, stigmas and discrimination, staff training and supervision, and legislation and policy. Plenty more plans and institutions are underway to improve mental health in Saint Lucia. According to BJPsych Internatioanl, the long-term goal is to create a mental health complex from the National Mental Wellness Center, Turning Point and Owen King EU Hospital to provide more community-based care and lower admission rates. Among the modifications will be the addition of a ward for children and adolescents.

Saint Lucia’s poverty level consisted of unemployment, limited economic opportunities, limited access to quality education and health care, dependence on agriculture and natural disasters impacting the economy. Although the poverty level had a significant impact on mental health in Saint Lucia, there are efforts to address these factors involving government policies, social programs, and international cooperation.

– AuiCha Conley
Photo: Flickr

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3 Community Programs Empowering Women in Senegal

3 Community Programs Empowering Women in SenegalThe following is an overview of three local and state initiatives with community partnerships that empowering women in Senegal. These organizations are playing a crucial role in breaking the cycle of poverty by providing women with essential resources, education and support. 

3 Community Programs Empowering Women in Senegal

  1. Tostan: Community-Led Development. Tostan, which means breakthrough in the Wolof language, is a nonprofit organization that Molly Melching, an exchange student, founded in Senegal in 1991 after she started a children’s center in Senegal. It focuses on empowering women and communities in Senegal through education and health initiatives. Economic struggles often lead families to pull girls out of school to contribute to income-generating activities or agricultural labor and girls face a higher risk of early marriage compared to boys. In addition, Molly Melching and her team at Tostan founded the Community Empowerment Program (CEP), which promotes community ownership of the development process. The final stage of the CEP, known as Aawde, includes instructional sessions on literacy, mathematics, project management and budgeting skills. Furthermore, these sessions help participants to efficiently organize and launch small businesses in their communities. Many of these enterprises, managed by women, offer them opportunities to earn an independent income.
  2. Women’s World Banking. Women’s World Banking, an international organization active in Senegal, promotes financial inclusion for women through partnerships with local financial institutions. This organization also improves access to financial services and resources for women entrepreneurs using apps. In Senegal, many rural women participate in informal savings groups, known as tontines, which provide a secure and familiar setting for them to meet with peers and save money for business ventures and crucial expenses. In fact, more than 40% of adult women in Senegal prefer informal savings clubs or individuals outside their families for saving money, in stark contrast to the mere 6% who opt for formal financial institutions. What’s more, Matontine and MyAgro, two digital financial services offered by Women’s World Banking, cater to businesses serving rural populations in Senegal. Matontine offers a suite of financial services, including profit-doubling loans, digital banking and life insurance. MyAgro offers digital banking services structured similarly to tontines, boosting women’s economic participation. It also provides digital banking options customized for Senegalese women. This initiative is one of the three community programs aimed at empowering women in Senegal.
  3. Cosef: Senegalese Women’s Council. Conseil Sénégalais des Femmes (Cosef) founded in 1955, is a transpartisan NGO dedicated to ensuring equal opportunities for women’s political participation. An increase in women’s political involvement correlates strongly with better health outcomes for families and reduced poverty. In 2010, the council played a pivotal role in enacting a gender parity law, organized participatory budgeting for local authorities and continues to provide training for women in political parties. The Senegalese Women’s movement ranks among the strongest in Africa. Thanks to the 2010 parity law, the number of women parliamentarians running in the 2012 election doubled. COSEF remains committed to empowering women and enhancing their representation in the Senegalese government by strengthening local institutions and advocating for training and political capacity-building programs for women and girls. Rokhiatou Gassama currently serves as the president of COSEF.

Strengthening Communities

These three organizations are only a few of the many that exemplify the collective commitment toward empowering women in Senegal and breaking systems of poverty. With their diverse approaches, they contribute to building stronger, more resilient communities where women play an active role in their upliftment.

Additionally, the documented achievements of these three community programs empowering women underscore the importance of community-driven efforts in the ongoing efforts to decrease poverty in Senegal.

– Ava Johnson
Photo: Unsplash

Social Health Insurance and Health Care in Indonesia

Health Care in IndonesiaIndonesia still needs to improve its health care. Data from the U.N. in 2022 shows that the median life expectancy in Indonesia is 68.25 years, reflecting an increase in life expectancy in the country. However, this figure is still relatively low. The main health problems in Indonesia are rooted in economic issues.

Access to Health Care in Indonesia

The unequal distribution of health services has resulted in an inability to access health services. With 9,599 health centers and 2,184 hospitals concentrated in the city center, rural dwellers face challenges in reaching these facilities. The slow development of infrastructure has a significant role in the need for health facilities. Data from the “Ministry of Health records that 52.8% of specialist doctors are in Jakarta, while in NTT and other provinces in Eastern Indonesia only around 1-3%.” Health funds in the health law must be 5%, but unfortunately, the Indonesian government only allocates 2.4% of the APBN.

Getting To Know BPJS

Indonesia Health Coverage Program, BPJS, was formed in 2014 to provide health and employment insurance for the public, civil servants and private employees. The legal basis for its implementation is Law No. 24 of 2011. Presently, 249 million Indonesians are registered as BPJS members, making it one of the most extensive programs globally.

One of the BPJS programs is the National Health Insurance (JKN), “an insurance system, where people are required to pay a small contribution as savings for treatment costs when they are sick in the future.” BPJS members receive comprehensive health care services, encompassing treatment and prevention. This includes access to necessary drug services based on medical needs and promotive and preventive services. The latter involves health education, primary immunization (BCG, DPT-HB, Polio and Measles), family planning services (including counseling, essential contraception, vasectomy and tubectomy) and health screening for early disease detection and prevention.

BPJS and Mental Health

Mental health is a big issue in Indonesia. According to data from Basic Health Research, in 2018, 19 million people aged more than 15 years experienced emotional disorders and 12 million aged more than 15 years experienced depression. Additionally, data from Litbangkes indicates an annual suicide rate of 1800 people. The government addresses mental health issues through the JKN program, ensuring comprehensive coverage for every member. This includes consultations, therapy, outpatient care and medications, all of which are fully covered by the JKN program.

The Impact of BPJS on Poverty and the Economy

Health is closely related to poverty and the economy, serving as the first energy base for economic development. When individuals are in good health, they are better prepared for work, contributing to increased productivity and a thriving economy. According to BPJS data, JKS-KIN protected 15.9 million people in 2015 and 14.5 million in 2016. The data from BPJS indicates that JKS-KIN has helped poor people in debt get adequate health facilities and reduce the inequality rate.

– Afra Amirah
Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Elderly Poverty in Albania

Addressing Elderly Poverty in Albania For years, Albania has grappled with the pervasive issue of elderly poverty, where inadequate social security systems, limited access to health care and the burden of intergenerational economic disparities have compounded the challenges faced by older citizens. The pension amounts in Albania continue to fall short of the relative poverty line, which stands at $6.7 per day or roughly $201 per month. Here are some of the factors that play a role within the issue of elderly poverty in Albania.

Post-Transition Albania

Today’s elderly in Albania have borne the brunt of the country’s tumultuous political economic transition back in 1991. The abrupt shift to market capitalism left many elderly people without savings or social safety nets, exacerbating their vulnerability. Additionally, the rapid aging of Albania’s population presents a looming demographic challenge. In 2022, Albania counted 630,000 people over the age of 60 years, comprising 22.5% of the national population, with projections indicating a rise of 26% in the coming years.

Economic Hardships and Pension Issues

Economic difficulties, invigorated by pension issues, further contribute to elderly poverty in Albania. Despite efforts to bolster economic development through foreign investments and seasonal tourism, poverty, unemployment, corruption and political instability persist. In 2019, approximately 33% of Albania’s population lived on less than $5.50 per day, marking it as the Western Balkan nation with the highest poverty rate.

Expensive living conditions and a lack of education opportunities are common reasons for young Albanians to leave the country. This exodus of young Albanians has led to high unemployment rates. With 60% unemployment among individuals aged 18 to 34, the workforce is dwindling, contributing to fewer contributions to the pension system. Consequently, there are fewer funds available to sustain pensions. Besides, the pension alone is often not enough to cover all one’s expenses, increasing the likelihood of elderly poverty. Health care costs, especially for chronic illnesses, pose a significant financial burden for older individuals, with around 91,000 elderly people in need of long-term care.

The government’s response to these challenges has been mixed. While there have been increases in social security spending, informal employment and irregular contributions present challenges in maintaining pension levels. Additionally, geographical disparities in social care provision mean that rural areas often have fewer health care services available.

Addressing Elderly Poverty in Albania

Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway to address elderly poverty in Albania. A non-profit called World Vision – World Vision is a global humanitarian organization that works to empower communities, alleviate poverty and provide assistance in areas such as education, health care and economic development – and municipalities have launched projects to extend health care services to remote areas, while the government has approved a National Action Plan aimed at combating elderly poverty.

The plan includes goals such as establishing daily care centers, residential centers and specialized buildings for vulnerable elderly individuals, as well as appointing nurses and social workers for home visits.

Looking Ahead

As Albania confronts the complexities of elderly poverty, initiatives led by World Vision and supportive government strategies are paving the way for meaningful progress. The establishment of care centers and expansion of health care services promise a more secure and dignified future for the nation’s elderly population. Through these collaborative efforts, Albania is taking significant steps toward alleviating the challenges of elder care, signaling a hopeful shift toward comprehensive social support and inclusion.

– Naomi Ronner
Photo: Flickr

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Changemaker: Fighting for Refugee Children in Zambia

Refugee Children in ZambiaZambia is a landlocked country located in southern Africa. Due to its unique geography, Zambia hosts approximately 105,000 refugees predominantly from bordering countries such as Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and former Rwandan and Angolan colonies. Many of these refugees and asylum seekers live in three main refugee settlements in Meheba, Mayukwayukwa and Mantapala, with some residing in Lusaka, the capital city.

The Experience of Refugee Children in Zambia

The nature of being a refugee or asylum seeker involves plenty of travel. As such, many organizations, including the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), have identified many violations of basic human rights during this process. In particular, refugee children seem to be dramatically affected by the process of claiming asylum. Challenging discrimination against refugee children in Zambia is one of the key case studies in UNICEF’s research on the issue. Others range from child marriage, child labor and gender-based violence.

A New Approach by UNICEF

To tackle these issues, UNICEF Zambia decided to organize what it calls a “Changemaker Workshop” in Lusaka. These workshops are designed to foster inclusion with refugee children in Zambia to directly address the unique problems they face daily, as well as canvassing for solutions.

The initiative involved 20 children aged 13 to 19 who shared their personal experiences as refugees living in Zambia. They were encouraged to highlight adversities faced while navigating the asylum process, detailing instances of discrimination and the challenges of living as orphans or being raised in child-headed households, typically led by an older sibling. As a UNICEF Changemaker, these refugee children can actively participate and consult on issues that directly affect them. Furthermore, they can provide better information to charitable organizations like UNICEF to develop a better outcome for them.

The Impact of the UNICEF Changemaker Program

As a direct result of this initiative, UNICEF has compiled valuable feedback from the participants. Many have proposed practical solutions to various challenges they face, including:

  1. Access to clean water and sanitation.
  2. Encouraging the refugee community to adopt reuse, reduce and recycle practices.
  3. The creation of more learning opportunities in the program.
  4. Establishing additional youth groups focused on teaching skills like writing, reading and organized sporting activities.
  5. Ensuring key information such as paper processing, environmental protection, reporting security issues and access to clean hygiene and sanitation services are presented in a way that can be understood by refugee children.

UNICEF Zambia says that these workshops enable a greater level of participation from refugee children in Zambia in a meaningful way. Consequently, the organization is expanding this initiative by collaborating with partners to establish additional safe spaces for children. This aims to amplify the voices of more adolescent refugees, fostering a platform where their perspectives are heard and solutions are envisaged.

– Domenico Palermo
Photo: Flickr

Tackling Poverty With Renewable Energy in the Bahamas

Renewable Energy in the BahamasIn 2016, the Bahamian government made a strategic investment of $50 million in renewable energy, paving the way for the groundbreaking 2022 Family Islands Solarization Program. Capitalizing on the nation’s approximately 310 days of sunshine per year, this initiative not only advances the goals for renewable energy in the Bahamas, but reduces reliance on imports and actively contributes to poverty alleviation by creating jobs, lowering the cost of living and building the community.

Job Creation and Economic Opportunities

The Family Islands Solarization Program is making significant strides in combating poverty by creating jobs and fostering economic opportunities. The program’s development, installation and maintenance of solar-fueled power systems on the islands of Andros, Bimini, Eleuthera, Inagua and more created a surge in demand for labor. Local residents have access to increased employment opportunities, ranging from solar panel installation to ongoing system maintenance, bolstering the economic well-being of the communities involved and creating a new skilled labor force in the area.

Affordable and Reliable Electricity

Recognizing the critical importance of resilience in a changing climate, the Government of the Bahamas implemented solar-plus-storage solutions as part of the Family Islands Solarization Program. This strategic move enables the retention of solar energy for use during evening hours and stormy weather. It also paves the way for future selling of its excess solar energy to other island nations, potentially reducing its reliance on tourism as the sole export of the region. By diminishing dependence on imported fossil fuels, the program effectively reduces the overall cost of electricity generation.

Community Empowerment and Education

The Family Islands Solarization Program places a robust emphasis on community involvement, education and empowerment. Actively engaging local residents in solar energy projects, from planning to implementation and maintenance, the program fosters a sense of ownership within communities. This hands-on involvement provides valuable renewable energy skills and knowledge, empowering community members to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities in the sector. As community members become more proficient at understanding and managing solar-powered systems, they are better equipped to break the chains of poverty and create a sustainable pathway to economic empowerment.

Conclusion

The Family Islands Solarization Program serves as a catalyst for sustainable, positive change in the Bahamas. By actively addressing poverty through job creation, affordable electricity and community empowerment, the program sets a precedent for sustainable development. 

As the nation strides towards achieving its goal of 30% renewable energy by 2030, the socio-economic benefits of the Family Islands Solarization Program encourage continued development of this sector throughout the area. This groundbreaking initiative not only propels the nation toward a greener future but also uplifts its communities, firmly establishing renewable energy in the Bahamas as a beacon of hope in the fight against poverty.

– Madeleine Norris
Photo: Pixabay