Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

The Intersection of Disability and Poverty in Indonesia

Disability and Poverty in IndonesiaDisability and poverty are critical issues that intersect, presenting complex challenges for individuals and societies worldwide. In Indonesia, this intersection is particularly prominent. The following is an exploration of the issue of disability and poverty in Indonesia, highlighting its causes, consequences and potential solutions.

Unraveling the Complex Relationship Between Disability and Poverty

Understanding the dynamic relationship between disability and poverty in Indonesia and globally requires a comprehensive examination of the various factors at play. Disability significantly increases the risk of experiencing poverty. According to the World Bank, the poverty rate in Indonesia stood at 20% in 2022 based on the poverty line of $3.65 per person per day.

Additionally, in March 2019, the National Socio-Economic Survey concluded that “more than 9% (23 million) of Indonesia’s population have a disability.”

Individuals with disabilities often face barriers that hinder their access to education, employment and social protection. Limited access to quality education perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage, inhibiting skill development and reducing economic empowerment opportunities. Discrimination and prejudice in the job market exacerbate these challenges, resulting in higher unemployment rates and lower wages for individuals with disabilities. Many public places and infrastructures in Indonesia lack the proper accessibility features for individuals with disabilities. This makes it very difficult for these individuals to navigate and participate fully in society.

Moreover, the lack of tailored social protection programs leaves them more vulnerable to economic hardships. Conversely, poverty can contribute to a higher likelihood of disability due to inadequate health care, unsafe working conditions, and limited access to necessary support services. The intersection of disability and poverty creates a complex web of challenges that necessitates a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach to address the underlying causes and alleviate their impact on individuals and communities.

Examining Government Initiatives on Disability and Poverty

The Indonesian government has enacted several notable laws and regulations to protect the rights of persons with disabilities in Indonesia. Act No. 4 of 1997 emphasizes equality and non-discrimination, outlining rights related to education, employment, accessibility, rehabilitation and social welfare. Law No. 23 of 2002 addresses explicitly child protection, including the right to education and social integration for children with disabilities.

Law No. 11 of 2009 focuses on social welfare, recognizing persons with disabilities as members of society facing challenges and social dysfunction. While these laws provide a foundation for promoting equality, it appears that continual evaluation, improvement and allocation of resources are necessary to ensure effective implementation and sustainable impact.

NGOs’ Role in Addressing Disability and Poverty

NGOs play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges that individuals with disabilities face living in poverty in Indonesia. These organizations are instrumental in promoting social inclusion, providing support services and advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities. Through a range of initiatives, NGOs actively contribute to improving the lives of this marginalized population.

One exemplary NGO working to help disabled people in Indonesia is Yayasan Mitra Netra (YMN), which focuses on supporting individuals with visual impairments. YMN’s efforts are centered on empowering visually impaired individuals through education, vocational training and job placement.

Among many, there are a couple of YMN’s accomplishments that stand out, such as the Braille mathematics books that use special symbols, as well as initiating the development of an electronic dictionary. During the first years of its work in the 1990s, the YMN was the first organization to provide computer courses for blind people, and in 1992, the organization also built an online library, providing access to books to people throughout Indonesia.

Another notable NGO is the YCAB Foundation which focuses on improving the lives of people with physical disabilities in Indonesia through education, skills training and economic empowerment programs. One of their flagship initiatives is the “Mobile Learning Center,” a mobile unit that brings education and training directly to communities, particularly in remote areas. This program focuses on providing accessible education for children and young adults who face barriers to accessing traditional schools. The Mobile Learning Center offers a range of educational activities tailored to the specific needs of individuals with physical disabilities.

By bringing education to their doorstep, YCAB Foundation ensures that these individuals have the opportunity to develop essential skills and knowledge, enhancing their prospects for employment and economic independence.

Making Efforts

Addressing the intersection of disability and poverty in Indonesia requires a multifaceted approach that includes government initiatives and the important role of NGOs. Laws and regulations provide a foundation for promoting equality, but ongoing evaluation and resource allocation is crucial for effective implementation. NGOs like Yayasan Mitra Netra and the YCAB Foundation make significant contributions to empowering individuals with disabilities through education, vocational training and economic empowerment programs. By working together, stakeholders can create a more inclusive society that ensures equal opportunities and improved quality of life for all Indonesians with disabilities.

– Betsy Watters
Photo: Unsplash

Power Africa’s Efforts to Resolve Africa’s Energy Crisis

Africa's Energy CrisisOn June 21,  2023, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) announced plans to invest some $89 million over a five-year period to “expand access to cleaner, reliable energy in sub-Saharan Africa.” Administrator Samantha Powers introduced the initiative at the 25th Africa Energy Forum (AEF), held in Nairobi, Kenya in June 2023. The announcement coincided with the 10-year anniversary of the Power Africa program, a U.S.-led partnership that has bolstered the AEF’s efforts to resolve Africa’s energy crisis and accelerate the implementation of reliable energy solutions across Africa.

Africa’s Energy Crisis

According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the rate of electricity access in sub-Saharan Africa has slowly but steadily increased in recent years, rising from 33.3% in 2010 to 48.2% in 2020. However, with more than 50% of the region’s population lacking access to electricity as of 2020, the rate of electricity access in sub-Saharan Africa remains “the lowest of any region in the world.” This is attributable to factors including a lack of grid distribution, high tariffs, income instability and strained infrastructure budgets, which have collectively lowered consumer demand and discouraged investment in improving the outdated grids that do exist. Accordingly, the report also showed, only about 18% of the sub-Saharan African population had access to clean energy for cooking as of 2020, a remarkably low percentage compared to the world average of about 70%.

Due to the current lack of access to clean energy, women and girls have been “disproportionately affected by household air pollution,” which UNCTAD reports resulted in 700,000 deaths across the continent in 2019. Yet, Africa holds 60% of the world’s best solar energy resources, meaning that there is great potential for African countries to implement safe, sustainable, cost-effective solutions for electricity distribution.

Power Through Partnership

Established in 2013, Power Africa focuses specifically on “ending energy poverty in sub-Saharan Africa.” By 2030, it aims to generate 30,000 megawatts or more of clean, reliable energy and provide electricity access for 60 million homes and businesses throughout the region. Consistent with the AEF’s goals, it plans to achieve this by uniting governments, companies and financial institutions in partnerships that will help combat the African energy crisis and “enable African leaders to pave their own future.”

Currently, Power Africa has more than 170 private sector partners coordinating efforts to build the technology, infrastructure and investments needed to deliver sustainable, reliable clean energy to sub-Saharan African communities. Simultaneously, the program is working with governments throughout the region to implement power sector reforms that are critical for resolving Africa’s energy crisis.

Furthermore, Power Africa is advancing gender equality in sub-Saharan Africa by promoting women’s involvement across all spheres of the energy sector, from policy-making to private companies to power generation plants. It emphasizes adopting gender inclusion policies, offers women opportunities for education and technical training and provides leadership training to support women’s advancement in the field.

Empowerment for the Future

So far, Power Africa has enabled more than 172 million people in sub-Saharan Africa to gain reliable electricity access, thereby contributing to alleviating Africa’s energy crisis. The new initiative will provide an additional “10 million on- and off-grid connections” that will benefit around 50 million people, allowing households and businesses across the region to gain access to better, cleaner, more reliable electricity.

Significantly, this comes with positive environmental and economic impacts. For instance, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, off-grid, or stand-alone, systems employ “a combination of techniques and technologies” to lower energy consumption and costs in remote regions where connecting to the grid is not economically feasible. With an additional $4.7 billion in public and private investments slated to develop infrastructure for a further 1,227 megawatts of clean energy generation and 1,500 km of transmission lines in sub-Saharan Africa, economic and environmental reform is on the horizon.

Looking Ahead

Since its inception, the Africa Energy Forum has opened discussion on topics including mining, pipeline projects, renewable energy, electricity trading and hydrogen power plants — an industry and a solution that has been gaining global attention and becoming increasingly prevalent in Africa. By providing space and funding to advance such solutions, Power Africa and AEF are making vital progress in combating Africa’s energy crisis while creating new diplomatic, infrastructural and business opportunities that will ensure future economic and environmental prosperity.

– Lucy Cosme Vera
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Using Smartphones to Address Global Illiteracy

Global IlliteracyThe impact of technology in the fight against global poverty is a subject of both positive and negative consequences. Nevertheless, numerous groups are harnessing the power of technology to drive progress toward the 17 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. A prominent illustration is the utilization of smartphones to address global illiteracy. Curious Learning, an organization committed to promoting literacy through smartphones, is making noteworthy advancements in alleviating poverty for future generations.

The Importance of Literacy in Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

Literacy serves as a crucial foundation for every aspect of a child’s life. As defined by UNESCO, literacy encompasses the ability to read, write, and interpret information, enabling children to understand the world around them and become educated individuals. Despite the progress so far, the World Literacy Foundation reports that there are still 750 million illiterate adults worldwide.

The link between global illiteracy and poverty operates in two directions. Poverty hampers children’s access to education and the resources needed to develop reading and writing skills. Challenges such as unaffordable school fees, early labor requirements or living in remote areas far from educational institutions hinder opportunities, particularly for children in rural areas of developing countries, leading to high rates of school absenteeism.

Conversely, the lack of literacy limits economic opportunities and perpetuates the cycle of poverty. UNESCO emphasizes that if all adults completed secondary education, 420 million individuals could escape poverty. Access to education equips individuals with literacy skills that open doors to better employment prospects and higher earnings. According to Curious Learning, each new level of literacy is associated with a 9.7% increase in earnings. The interplay between literacy and poverty creates a vicious cycle that persists across generations unless effectively addressed.

Curious Learning’s Fight Against Global Illiteracy

Curious Learning is at the forefront of efforts against poverty by tackling the issue of global illiteracy. The organization’s mission is to provide children worldwide with the necessary access to learn how to read. What sets Curious Learning apart is its unique approach. The organization localizes free reading apps in 69 languages and distributes them in countries like Nepal, India and Kenya. With more than 75 dedicated apps aimed at developing reading skills and reducing global illiteracy in children, Curious Learning has achieved global outreach.

As of 2021, Curious Learning has extended its reach to every country across the globe, with a specific focus on developing nations. South Asia, West Asia and sub-Saharan Africa are regions characterized by alarmingly high illiteracy rates. Therefore, Curious Learning’s interventions are strategically concentrated in countries within these areas of greatest need. For instance, its work began with interventions in Ethiopia in 2011, followed by a World Bank study on literacy apps in Northern Nigeria in 2022. Both countries face significant illiteracy challenges, with rates of 50.9% and 40.4%, respectively, placing them among the top 20 countries with the highest illiteracy rates globally.

In line with technological advancements, digital literacy has been incorporated into the definition of literacy by UNESCO and other organizations. By introducing underserved children to reading through digital apps, Curious Learning addresses both reading skills and technological proficiency simultaneously, equipping children for success in the digital age.

The Apps

All of the apps that Curious Learning localizes and distributes are free to use, and this ensures accessibility. Here are a few of the organization’s apps that are making learning to read fun and engaging:

  • Feed The Monster: This game helps children learn letter names and sounds while collecting cute monsters as pets. It is available in over 50 languages, including Arabic, Ukrainian and Oluganda. The game is distributed in more than 50 languages including Arabic, Ukrainian and Oluganda.
  • Read With Akili- What Do You Like To Do?: Based on the children’s cartoon by the name of “Akili and Me”, this app is a learning program made for children in Africa. Children follow Akili, a 4-year-old from Tanzania and learn to read with three different levels of interactive content.
  • Chimple: Chimple encourages “self-directed early learning”.  The app is designed to take children from zero to basic literacy and numeracy.

The Impact

Curious Learning’s efforts proved successful in fighting illiteracy in developing countries. In a study done in collaboration with The World Bank and Middlesex University, published on August 3, 2022, Curious Learning tested the effectiveness of its apps in Northern Nigeria. Of the countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Nigeria has the most children unenrolled in schools at 10.5 million.

Households received a smartphone complete with the reading apps, Feed the Monster and the Global Digital Library and the researchers followed one child, ages 6 to 9 years old, from each family. The researchers implemented the apps along with aspirational videos as interventions for these children. Results of the interventions showed that children who received the interventions scored 42.5% fewer zeros on letter recognition.

The apps improved children’s literacy skills by 0.46 standard deviations and numeracy skills by 0.63 standard deviations. The intervention accomplished similar outcomes in twelve months as outcomes that took a whole five years of instruction in schools.

Curious Learning is committed to providing accessible and effective interventions to combat global illiteracy. Based on the organization’s statement on 2023 plans and goals, it plans to launch a global literacy league of people in various countries working to distribute literacy apps. It also aims to expand the scale of its programs in 30 countries with the highest numbers of illiteracy.

Smartphones and apps, like those developed by Curious Learning, have become powerful tools for breaking the cycle of global illiteracy and poverty. By providing accessible and engaging interventions, Curious Learning is making a significant impact on the lives of underserved children worldwide.

– Yesenia Aguilera
Photo: Unsplash

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Water.org Expands Access To Clean Water in Peru

Access To Clean Water in PeruPeru is a populous South American nation, and both its cities and mountainous regions face a shortage of clean drinking water. Water.org, a non-profit organization that partners with financial institutions to expand access to clean water in Peru, has recently started addressing this issue.

To accomplish its goals, Water.org partners with seven financial institutions, a microfinance association and a federation that represents 11 national banks in Peru. Water.org’s profile of Peru states that 48% of the country’s population lacks access to a safely managed and reliable water source, and the organization aims to remedy that.

The Urban-Rural Divide in Access To Clean Water in Peru

Lima is the capital and urban epicenter of Peru. The mountainous southern region of Peru, popularly known sd “Deep Peru,” is culturally marginalized by Lima, and the quality of life is demonstrably worse in Deep Peru than in Lima. According to a 2021 news article by Americas Quarterly, life expectancy in the rural region of Huancavelica is seven years shorter than in Lima and infant mortality is nearly three times higher in rural Puno than in Lima.

Poverty and Lack of Access To Clean Water in Peru

Rural populations suffer disproportionately from a lack of access to clean water in Peru. A 2021 research study by Vasquéz et al. provides evidence that safe drinking water in Peru is concentrated in the wealthiest households.

At the time of a 2020 report by the Global Living Wage Coalition, the poverty rate in rural Peru was 46%, compared to about 15% in urban areas. A 2021 report by the Peru Support Group adds that extreme poverty affects 12.1% of the rural population while only 2.1% of the urban population suffers a similar fate.

Like poverty, lack of access to clean water in Peru is worse in its rural areas than in its cities. A 2021 report by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) finds that 4.7% of Peru’s urban population lacks access to public water supply networks, compared to 25.3% of the rural population.

The lack of access to clean water in Peru is not an issue that affects only rural areas, however. According to water.org’s profile of Peru, a sharply rising urban population has led to the development of urban slums where piped water is not accessible.

Misuse of Resources

The lack of clean water in Peru has less to do with scarcity and more to do with misuse. A 2012 Global Majority E-journal article states that despite being one of the world’s top 17 countries with the most freshwater available per capita, Peru is also one of the world’s top 30 countries suffering most from water stress and scarcity.

The Solution: Water.org’s Water Loans

Recent efforts by Water.org and its partners have focused on expanding access to clean water in Peru. Using a program called WaterCredit, partners of Water.org have “disbursed 1.1 million water and sanitation loans over the past few years, providing access to clean water and sanitation to 4.2 million people.”

According to Water.org, WaterCredit brings small loans to those who need access to affordable financing in areas demonstrating a need for safe water and a readiness for solutions involving microfinance.

Water.org partners with more than 150 financial institutions worldwide, and these institutions establish water loans in their repertoire of services. Once a loan is repaid, it can be lent to another family lacking access to clean water.

Outlook

Clean water is a necessity for living that specific populations of urban and rural areas of Peru struggle to attain. Efforts by organizations such as Water.org recognize where the issue exists and whom it affects. And with continued efforts, there is hope for a future where water is more accessible.

– Noel Teter
Photo: Flickr

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Everything to Know About Poverty in the DRC

Poverty in the DRCThe Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), despite its vast mineral wealth, faces significant challenges in socio-economic development due to high poverty levels. Political corruption, limited economic opportunities and ongoing conflict all contribute to the persistent poverty in the country. The following is a brief look into the extent and causes of poverty in the DRC.

Causes of Poverty

Gaining insight into the factors contributing to poverty is essential when analyzing the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the International Trade Administration, the country holds significant untapped potential. In 2020, it emerged as the leading cobalt producer, accounting for 41% of global production, and ranked sixth in diamond production with 3.7 million carats. Despite agriculture being the largest sector, it has not effectively mitigated poverty, which has persisted for decades.

Statistics and Reasons for Poverty in the DRC

According to the World Bank, a significant portion of the population in the DRC, approximately 60 million people or 62%, live on less than $2.15 per day as of 2022. In 2021, the GDP per capita in the DRC was $577.20.

The prevalence of political corruption has been a major contributor to the high levels of poverty in the DRC. Political interests have taken precedence over crucial socio-economic matters, hindering the country’s development. The nation has faced persistent political conflicts due to lengthy presidential reigns, further exacerbating the challenges that citizens face.

Rather than prioritizing economic development and improving the lives of people, political issues and policies have taken precedence in the DRC. According to Africa’s Organised Crime Index, low salaries and poor treatment within the police force have resulted in a lack of seriousness in addressing monetary-related crimes, allowing perpetrators to evade punishment.

The life expectancy of a Congolese person at birth is only 59 years, as reported by the World Bank in 2021. This figure is significantly lower compared to many other countries, such as the U.S., where the average stands at 76 years. The underdevelopment of public sectors, coupled with low-income levels for the majority of Congolese people, perpetuates the cycle of poverty in the country.

Taking Action

Oxfam, an organization that has been working in the DRC since 1961, has played a vital role in promoting sustainable access to water and good hygiene practices. Through local initiatives, communities and schools have received the necessary support to maintain their access to these essential resources. Oxfam’s impactful efforts include providing life-saving aid to 700,000 displaced individuals, ensuring access to clean water and food.

Coopi, an Italian humanitarian organization, is also actively engaged in the DRC. Its initiatives encompass various areas such as providing free health care, offering support to malnourished mothers and children and promoting agricultural activities by assisting farmers in cultivating and marketing their products.

These organizations, among others, are committed to improving the living conditions of the Congolese people. By imparting knowledge on securing basic needs, they contribute to positive changes in poverty levels in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

– Christelle Wealth-Mukendi
Photo: Courtesy of Christelle Wealth-Mukendi

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Clothed in Hope: A Changing Future for Zambian Women

Clothed in HopeAfter graduating from the University of South Carolina with a degree in fashion merchandise, Amy Woodell set off for Zambia on a graduation trip. There, she met many wonderful women who were struggling to make ends meet. Realizing that she could not leave the country behind, she decided to start the organization Clothed in Hope, which aims to, “empower women in Zambia through education and economic opportunity.” For the past 12 years, it has done just that.  

Why Zambia?

Zambia is a nation that has consistently struggled to keep citizens above the poverty line, with this concern particularly affecting women. According to the World Bank, the poverty rate in the rural areas of Zambia are 78%, with women being more vulnerable. Additionally, two-thirds of female-headed households in Zambia are in the poorer half of the population based on consumption levels. 

There appears to be a need to prioritize entrepreneurial training in order to increase human capital and female autonomy. In light of this, Clothed in Hope implemented a business training strategy that aims to lift hundreds of Zambian women out of poverty and encourage financial independence.

Phase 2

Clothed in Hope offers Phase 2, a 12-month program to teach sewing and business management skills. There were 316 women participating in the program which successfully benefitted 1,038 children in Zambia. The impact of this initiative continues to grow and stimulate various communities. The lessons offered include information about maternal health, nutrition, and personal finance in order to contribute positively to each household.

Phase 2 of Clothed in Hope aims to expand its impact by creating a “multiplication effect.” Every year, the organization chooses 15 graduates of the original program to join a co-op of community-based businesses, including tailoring. Each member will receive further business management training and participate in a mentor program with Clothed in Hope staff.

To generate a “multiplication effect,” the newly empowered entrepreneurs are encouraged to pass on their acquired skills to other community members. Clothed in Hope, in order to finance this process, offers grants to uplift these businesses. The organization’s dedicated support staff conducts frequent visits to the grant recipients, assessing the impact of the grants and assisting in troubleshooting.

Hope Remains Fervent

Clothed in Hope has created a website full of designs its entrepreneurs design and sell. These beautiful products range from clothing and accessories to household items.

In addition, it offers membership to the Hope Club, a group of participants who donate monthly. Through the Clothed in Hope website, donors can read about entrepreneurs and their business proposals and follow consistent updates from grant recipients.

The fight against poverty in Zambia is not yet over, but with organizations like Clothed in Hope in operation, there is hope that the trend will change for the better. 

– Macyn Hanzlik-Barend
Photo: Pxfuel

Caring for Hong Kong’s Elderly

Hong Kong’s Elderly
Hong Kong is a special administrative region in China, located at the south-eastern point of China. The region covers Hong Kong Island, Lantau Island, the Kowloon Peninsula and the New Territories, including 261 outlying islands. The constitutional document of the “Basic Law” ensures that Hong Kong maintains its autonomy, due to its integral concept of “one country, two systems.” This grants the region its own independent executive, judicial and legislative power. As of 2022, the region had an estimated population of 7.35 million. Despite being efficient, Hong Kong’s health care is reported to be underdeveloped. In order to better serve its aging population, the government is making a change to its system. Currently, the aim of health care is to become more centered on community prevention. And the recent launch of Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s health management app reflects a step forward in improving Hong Kong’s elderly health care.

Hong Kong Has an Aging Population

The region has one of the world’s most rapidly aging populations. By 2039, those aged 65 and above are projected to increase from 1.5 million in 2021 to 2.52 million, comprising 31% of the population. Similarly, those aged 80 and above will increase from 0.4 million in 2021 to 0.93 million in 2039. This will be an increase from 5% to 11.5%. As people age, the prevalence of chronic diseases and illnesses rises, leading to increased health care demands. As of 2020-2021, 47% of people who suffered health problems were aged 65 and above. This is around 2.2 million people, with estimates suggesting that the number could increase to 3 million by 2039.

Elderly Poverty

Hong Kong’s Oxfam found that up to 85% of its elderly cannot retire due to financial hardship. In 2020, a situation report revealed that 45% of citizens aged 65 and above live in poverty. Many have no choice but to keep working in order to support their unemployed spouse, leaving them to doubly work as caregivers. Consequently, the elderly become more susceptible to illnesses. The fees for government medical services are increasing and waiting times exceed one year. An elderly person has to wait an average of three years before being admitted to a subsidized home, with more than 6,000 individuals passing away during this waiting period.

Reforming Health Care

In December 2022, the government introduced the Primary Healthcare Blueprint, aimed at enhancing Hong Kong’s elderly health care. Its main objective is to focus on disease prevention rather than focusing on treatment. This will improve the population’s health status and provide functional healthcare services that will form a sustainable health care system. Considering the increase in service demand, the Hospital Authority is monitoring the use of various medical services to better serve the public.

The mHealth App Provides Interactive Nursing Support

Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s School of Nursing has developed a mobile health management app for the elderly in collaboration with a local telecommunications company. The app includes 24/7 nursing interaction, allowing users to initiate video calls with nurses for physical and mental support. The app is also connected to a health monitoring device, which can trigger early interventions by alerting a nurse or caregiver when it detects abnormalities in vital signs.

Positive Impact: Improving Quality of Life

A pilot study involving 221 elderly participants aged 60 and above occurred at five elderly service centers of the Hong Kong Lutheran Social Service. Each participant had at least one chronic health condition such as hypertension or diabetes. After using the app for six months, the study reported reduced depression levels and decreased use of medical services. Additionally, participants experienced an increase in self-efficacy and an improved quality of life.

Why Does this Matter?

The combination of digital technology and nursing assistance can help reduce the pressure on public medical services. The use of PolyU’s mobile app is a significant step toward improving Hong Kong’s elderly health care and alleviating its elderly poverty. Research teams recommend the use of digital technology for health management and plan to integrate artificial intelligence into the app to better cater to the needs of the elderly. With the growing demand for public medical services in the face of its aging population, Hong Kong’s latest app development demonstrates the use of innovative solutions to aid the elderly and general health care.

– Grace Clay
Photo: Pexels

Combating Elderly Poverty in Ghana

Elderly Poverty in GhanaThe West African nation of Ghana is grappling with a widespread, decades-long poverty crisis, predominately in rural areas of the country. According to the World Bank, 20.5% of Ghana’s population lived below the international poverty line in 2022. In particular, elderly poverty in Ghana has become a growing problem due to factors including a rapidly aging population and low birthrates. However, the nation is working to combat the problem and provide relief for some of its most vulnerable citizens.

Trends that Contribute to Elderly Poverty in Ghana

Elderly Poverty in Ghana, as elsewhere, affects the health and quality of life of citizens 60 years of age and older. According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), Ghana’s elderly population was close to 2 million in 2021, a figure almost 10 times higher than that recorded in 1960. Furthermore, the GSS’s 2021 Population and Housing Census indicated that more than 25% of Ghana’s elderly live in multidimensional poverty, meaning that they lack access to several essential resources and services like clean water, a secure food supply, reliable housing and health care. Notably, elderly multidimensional poverty rates reportedly ranged from 8.8% in the region of Accra, Ghana’s capital city, to 53% in the rural Savannah Region.

As Ghana’s social infrastructures confront rising elderly poverty rates, health care, especially, is struggling to meet the needs of the country’s population. As of 2021, elderly citizens accounted for about 7% of Ghana’s population, one of the highest proportions in sub-Saharan Africa. Expected to rise, this figure is, in part, the result of recent increases in life expectancy due to factors including increased urbanization and increased access to family planning services. Yet, as Ghana’s elderly population grows, the demand for access to services such as health care also increases.

Impact on Living Standards

Lack of access to vital necessities such as nutritious food, clean water and health care puts individuals at greater risk of poor health and communicable disease. Many elderly citizens are living with at least one illness or chronic condition and have become burdened by increased medical expenses and financial instability. Some have become dependent on their families for care and support while others who are unable to find employment turn to informal work, such as begging, to provide for themselves and their families.

Addressing Elderly Poverty in Ghana

Care 4 Aged Outreach, a non-governmental, Ghana-based nonprofit, is working to provide support for elderly Ghanaians living in poverty, and are unable to care for themselves due to age or illness. The organization’s volunteers offer home visits and free services such as cooking, housekeeping, laundry and medical assistance. Its efforts include enabling school-aged children, who would otherwise be responsible for caring for their loved ones, to return to the classroom.

The Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program, founded in 2008, also provides cash transfers to households with elderly residents. Additionally, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), established by the Government of Ghana in 2003 and updated in 2012, is working to ensure access to quality health insurance and care for all Ghanaians, including elderly citizens.

Looking Ahead

These initiatives are providing vital relief for elderly Ghanaians living in poverty. Still, the complex and multi-faceted nature of the issue highlights the need for more effort. Ongoing trends suggest that continued work and support can potentially resolve the problem of elderly poverty in Ghana, thereby creating a brighter future for the country’s aging population and youth alike.

– Nicholas DeLuca
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Fighting Food Insecurity in Ukraine 

Food Insecurity in UkraineSince Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, the country has experienced several disastrous side effects that threaten the livelihoods of its people. The most pertinent issue at hand is the dangers to food security. With intense fighting on the frontlines and a myriad of reasons not to leave their homes, many people living on the front lines now struggle against food insecurity in Ukraine. In light of this, many institutions like the World Food Programme (WFP) have dedicated their efforts to fighting against food insecurity.

How Did Things Get Here?

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been a constant in world news since 2014 when Russia forcibly annexed Crimea from Ukraine and kickstarted the Donbas War. The 2022 full-scale invasion by Russia, however, proved to be the tipping point for several problems worldwide. Food insecurity especially is a growing problem in Ukraine and around the world.

Ukraine provides up to 30% of the world’s wheat and barley supply, an industry that has now been disrupted in the wake of Russia’s attack. Many people, both in Ukraine and around the world, have resultantly struggled with attaining food, either due to struggling supply chains in Ukraine or hikes in food prices in many countries.

The front lines of the conflict especially have been at risk of food insecurity in Ukraine. An estimated 40% of people in regions affected by the war struggle to get satisfactory amounts of food. Both the conflict and insufficient food supply are likely to increase poverty in the region.

To make matters more complicated, the recent collapse of the Nova Kakhovka dam on June 6, 2023, has swathed critical farmland in flooding water. Detritus from the dam has also let contaminants taint the water, stifling the distribution of seafood and fish as another food source.

Because of the war and these compounding issues, the dangers of food insecurity in Ukraine have increased. There are, however, many efforts to combat this problem.

Fighting for Food Security and The WFP

The breakout of the conflict led to one of the biggest humanitarian efforts in the world, with many countries and institutions providing different forms of aid to Ukraine. In fighting food insecurity in Ukraine, Argentina helped deliver 1,500 tons of food to Ukraine alongside other necessities such as clothes and medicine.

Perhaps the biggest organization fighting against food insecurity in Ukraine, however, is WFP; an organization dedicated to fighting world hunger in any situation. The WFP works to provide support in food and cash to 3 million people in Ukraine each month. Its efforts include delivering rations to those in high-conflict zones as well as removing mines from farm plots to increase agriculture production.

Since the beginning of 2023, the WFP has delivered over 91,869 metric tons of food and over 4 million in rations to Ukraine. The recent collapse of the Nova Kakhovka dam has seen a quick response by the WFP, with 148,000 rations delivered to those affected by the flood. The WFP plans further assistance to those in need through additional means of transporting food, including boats.

In addition, the WFP has teamed up with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to establish the Food Security and Livelihoods (FSL) Cluster. The FSL Cluster helps to coordinate several other organizations in food security response within Ukraine, including U-Saved and the Samaritan’s Purse International Relief (SPIR). SPIR itself follows second to the WFP in terms of food distribution, bringing food to over 484,000 people near the front lines as of April of this year.

A Continuous Struggle

For now, the war continues, and food insecurity in Ukraine remains an issue. Through the efforts of groups like the WFP, however, many people within the country receive critical food assistance that saves them from hunger every day. Though the conflict may remain for the immediate future, the efforts of those fighting to keep people fed in Ukraine spell hope for those seeking a future without food insecurity.

– Kenneth Berends
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

TB Elimination Alliance Serves AAPI Communities

TB Elimination AllianceLaunched in 2019, the TB Elimination Alliance (TEA) is an organization ending tuberculosis in underrepresented Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander populations. Currently, 13 million people have latent tuberculosis infection (CDC, 2023). Of this number, 36% of Asian/Asian Americans and 25% of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders have tuberculosis. To help combat the high rates of tuberculosis in these communities, the TB Elimination Alliance has four goals: outreach, awareness, resource sharing and partnership development.

Outreach

TEA’s primary goal is to reach “underserved AA and NH/PI communities with the highest TB burden.” One way the organization achieves its goal is by contacting community health centers. For instance, in 2022, TEA invited the health centers to complete surveys that collect data on the needs of the Asian and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander community, specifically regarding tuberculosis, so that the organization could know how to help them best.

Awareness

The second goal of TEA is to raise awareness about tuberculosis treatment and testing. One way TEA does this is by providing a summary of the U.S. recommendations for testing and treatment on its website for people who need access to that information. The organization also creates webinars for health care workers and companies that “discuss successful strategies for screening, testing and treatment in high-need populations in community health care settings.” The webinars aim to raise awareness in the health care community of the issues facing high-risk populations regarding tuberculosis.

The Tuberculosis Elimination Alliance and Hep B United also hold an annual TB Summit with “workshops, panels, networking” with the goal of “celebrating the achievements and progress towards hepatitis B and tuberculosis elimination”. The publicity surrounding this event also brings awareness about tuberculosis to Asian and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders communities.

Sharing Resources

The third goal of the Tuberculosis Elimination Alliance is to share resources and information with communities at high risk for tuberculosis. One resource the organization shares is a self-study module about tuberculosis on its website.

Additionally, the organization also hosted a webinar titled “Quality Improvement Strategies for Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI) Testing and Treatment in Asian American- (AA-), Native Hawaiian (NH-), and Pacific Islander- (PI-) Serving Health Centers: Standardized Data Collection Opportunities” so that the health care companies and workers were not only informed on the issues facing high-risk communities but knew how to respond to these issues as well.

Developing Partnerships

The fourth goal of the Tuberculosis Elimination Alliance is to develop partnerships with other organizations to “scale existing initiatives.” It partners with STOP TB USA, which aims to “ strengthen the ability to search for, treat and prevent TB.”

Another partner of the Tuberculosis Elimination Alliance is the Asian and Pacific Islander American Health Forum. This organization works to “influence policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans & Native Hawaiians/Pacific Islanders.” 

The Tuberculosis Elimination Alliance finally partners with local clinics like Hope Clinic, which provides health care in “over 30 languages.”

Influence

Through outreach, awareness, sharing resources and developing partnerships, the Tuberculosis Elimination Alliance has helped many people. Since the organization began in 2019, $573,500 in mini-grants have been awarded in 17 states to help with tuberculosis efforts in Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, African American, Latinx and Asian American communities.

Additionally, within the last 15 years, 36 million people have been cured of tuberculosis. One of the big reasons for this is because of organizations like the Tuberculosis Elimination Alliance, which reaches out to underrepresented communities like the Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander communities so that they get the help they need.

– Hope Yonehara
Photo: Flickr