Archive for category: Health

Information and stories on health topics.

, ,

Managing Maternal Hypertensive Disorders in Venezuela

Maternal Hypertensive Disorders in VenezuelaVenezuela faces a time of profound instability. Not only due to piling political unrest but further exacerbated by changing climates and insufficient funding reach. Maternal and perinatal conditions claim approximately 8,000 lives each year and the World Health Organization (WHO) has determined that hypertensive disorders account for 20% of those maternal deaths.

This alarming reality demands immediate intervention. Organizations including UNICEF are already responding, deploying strategies to expand healthcare access and strengthen training in obstetric neonatal and pediatric emergency care. Here is more information about maternal hypertensive disorders in Venezuela and how they are being addressed.

The Government 

To understand Venezuela’s healthcare emergency, one must first understand its economic catastrophe. For decades, oil revenues financed nearly two-thirds of the government budget. In 2014, when oil prices collapsed and the central bank responded by printing more money, the country entered one of the worst hyperinflation periods in modern history. Ordinary Venezuelans have felt these impacts the most as political turmoil has been further exacerbated by exchange rate volatility and the recent capture of Nicolas Maduro.

Due to this, more than one quarter of the population need humanitarian assistance. Significantly, the most severe impacts befall the health systems from this economic collapse. Domestic general government health expenditure under Maduro was merely 3.6%, with out-of-pocket spending accounting up to 30% of health expenditure. For Venezuelans where the official minimum wages remain below $2/month, this basic healthcare need remains inaccessible. Furthermore, known as the ‘brain drain’ roughly half of the country’s doctors have emigrated, leaving hospitals understaffed and unable to perform basic tasks such as routine obstetric check-ups. For pregnant women and children, especially in indigenous communities, this has had detrimental effects.

Hypertensive Disorders

Hypertensive disorders affect 1.4 billion people globally. However, prevalence is skewed toward low- and middle- income countries. Such disorders are huge risk factors for developing heart disease, stroke and, in pregnant individuals, pre-eclampsia. These disorders are frequently and easily missed as key symptoms presenting as vision loss and headaches. Tests for such disorders require equipment which is inaccessible in rural areas of Venezuela and when untreated, leads to seizures and hemorrhage.

In Venezuela, hypertensive disorders cause roughly 20% of maternal deaths with other confounding causes being maternal hemorrhage. This had evident effects as shown by the growing ratios of maternal mortality. This impacts 226.7 individuals per 100,000 live births and worsening by +25% points since 2019. Simple low-cost training to help healthcare workers identify early warning signs of hypertensive diseases combined with targeted education campaigns for pregnant women, could meaningfully improve outcomes and empower women to advocate for their own care.

Who Is Helping?

Despite the fact that many organizations have received just 17% of the >$600 million that Venezuela’s humanitarian response plan requires, many organizations, governmental and non-governmental alike are implementing strategies to ameliorate the maternal health crisis. These strategies are offering hope for the future. Many individuals must walk miles to reach a suitable healthcare facilities, however pregnant women with hypertensive disorders cannot afford this time.

At Project HOPE, local health partners are receiving training and increasing accessibility to maternal healthcare at the Venezuela-Columbia border. Alongside initiatives provided by the International Medical Corps, hope is in sight for these vulnerable Venezuelan’s. Since its implementation, the International Medical Corps (IMC) has provided more than $1.8 million in equipment, medical supplies and facilities.

Medical units mobilized by this organization aid in improving maternal outcomes for those in remote areas, specifically indigenous communities. Furthermore, continuous efforts from UNICEF demonstrate significant advancements for access to healthcare with 129,871 children and 31,273 women accessing their implemented facilities in the first half of 2025. Increased training in partnership with the ministry of health resulted in 29,788 safe deliveries, 3,289 of which were from indigenous communities. If efforts like this continue to prevail, much needed relief may be provided to the mothers to be of Venezuela when aiming to reduce mortality due to hypertensive disorders.

Conclusion

While maternal hypertensive disorders are manageable themselves when early detection and low-cost diagnostic equipment is available, this is not available in many areas of Venezuela. This cannot be divorced from the broader poverty issue which lies within this country. Thus, Venezuela’s maternal health crisis is a story about compounding vulnerabilities. Economic collapse has gutted public health funding and hyperinflation pushing basic care out of reach. Sustained funding, continued education of local health workers and community level education for pregnant women offers credible paths forward to address maternal hypertensive disorders in Venezuela.

– Juliette Dall’Aglio

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

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Community Midwife Training in Nepal

Community Midwife Training in NepalIn many rural parts of Nepal, reaching a hospital during childbirth can require hours of travel. Limited access to trained medical professionals means that some women still give birth without skilled assistance. This is increasing the risk of complications for both mothers and newborns. 

Programs focused on community midwife training in Nepal are helping address these challenges. They are preparing local health workers to provide safe delivery care and newborn support in remote communities. 

Maternal and Newborn Health Challenges in Rural Nepal

Nepal has made substantial progress in maternal health over the past two decades. According to global maternal mortality estimates, Nepal’s maternal mortality ratio declined from 553 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 186 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2017. This represents a reduction of about 66%.

Newborn survival has also improved. The World Health Organization (WHO) finds that Nepal’s neonatal mortality rate declined from 40 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2000 to 16.6 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2023. Despite these gains, many families in rural areas still struggle to access skilled care during childbirth. 

In mountainous regions of Nepal, reaching a hospital or birthing center may require several hours of travel, sometimes on foot. Shortages of trained health workers and limited medical infrastructure in remote communities also contribute to gaps in maternal and newborn care. 

Expanding Skilled Care Through Community Training 

Nepal’s maternal health strategy includes training skilled birth attendants such as nurses and auxiliary nurse midwives. These skilled birth attendants help manage labor, identify complications and provide essential newborn care. Because many trainees come from the communities they serve, they often understand local languages and cultural practices, making it easier to reach families who might otherwise avoid institutional care. 

These efforts have contributed to significant improvements in access to skilled birth support. Data from the Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) show that the share of births attended by a skilled health professional increased from about 13% in 2001 to roughly 80% in 2022. Expanding access to trained midwives has played a major role in improving maternal and newborn outcomes across the country. 

Safer childbirth also helps reduce poverty by preventing costly medical emergencies and allowing mothers to recover and return to work more quickly. This reduces the economic strain that childbirth complications can place on low-income households. 

Nonprofit Partnerships Strengthening Maternal Care

International nonprofit organizations also support community midwife training in Nepal through partnerships with the country’s public health system. One organization working in this area is One Heart Worldwide. The nonprofit collaborates with Nepal’s Ministry of Health and Population to strengthen maternal and newborn health services in rural districts.

The organization works directly with government health facilities to improve the quality of maternal care. It does this by training skilled birth attendants, upgrading rural birthing centers and providing ongoing mentorship for health workers. Its programs also strengthen referral systems so that complicated pregnancies can be transferred more quickly to higher-level hospitals. 

Another program working to support maternal health by expanding access to skilled care in underserved communities is CARE Nepal. The organization works with local governments and community health volunteers to improve prenatal care, promote safe delivery practices and increase awareness of maternal health services. CARE programs also focus on training health workers, supporting community outreach and helping connect pregnant women with nearby health facilities where trained midwives can assist during childbirth. 

The Impact of Skilled Midwives

The availability of trained midwives plays a crucial role in improving maternal and newborn health outcomes worldwide. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), midwives trained to international standards could deliver about 90% of essential maternal health services. They could also provide essential newborn care.

In addition to assisting during childbirth, trained midwives help strengthen local health systems by linking pregnant women with antenatal services, organizing checkups and helping families navigate referrals to larger hospitals when necessary. 

A Healthier Future for Mothers and Newborns in Nepal

Continued investment in community midwife training in Nepal remains essential for improving maternal and newborn health outcomes in rural areas. Expanding training programs, strengthening health facilities and supporting partnerships between government agencies and nonprofit organizations can help ensure that skilled professionals attend more births. 

Nepal’s progress in maternal health demonstrates how expanding access to skilled care can transform outcomes for mothers and newborns. As community midwife training initiatives continue to grow, safer childbirth and stronger maternal care are becoming increasingly within reach for families across the country. 

– Tom Basu

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

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Poverty and Healthcare in Kenya

Healthcare and Poverty in KenyaThere are many health factors that contribute to the approximately 3.6 million orphaned children in Kenya: sickness, malnutrition, healthcare access and gender disparities. Poverty is woven through each of these areas that has significant effects on women and orphan children that reside in Kenya, leaving many vulnerable to developing health risk behaviors. The lack of accessible healthcare is clear in Kenya with the prevalence of diseases and many barriers that women and children face in order to be able to receive care. This has now also become a socioeconomic issue as the healthcare system shows extreme disparities within the major communities of Kenya.

Navigating HIV/AIDS in Poverty

HIV/AIDS affects 1.4 million people in Kenya, and 32% of orphanhood stems from HIV/AIDS. This happens due to how widespread HIV is within families, and how it will directly affect the families labor force and overall income. HIV also plays a major role in the health of parents in the family, causing deaths of either one or both parents, leaving more children orphaned. Poverty directly impacts access to antiviral drugs (ARVs) as
the citizens of Kenya rely heavily on donors. In January 2025, the U.S. shut down its USAID, reducing its programs to Kenya from 149 to 30. This massive exit from humanitarian aid has caused many healthcare workers to experience lay offs and forced healthcare facilities to close.

Vitamin Deficiencies in Pregnant Women

In Kenya, many pregnant women have vitamin deficiencies which are due to the limited amounts of nutritional products for maternal health along with overall nutritious foods required during pregnancy. In Kenya, 26% of pregnant women suffer from iron deficiency, creating an anemia rate of 42.6%. Kenya as a whole is facing a drought which is not only affecting their resources, but also the ability for families to have stability which leads to a lot of children in orphanages. Many of the orphans in Kenya have living relatives but widespread poverty leaves them without substantial resources, leading to children being placed in orphanages with the idea that they will live a better life.

Gender Disparities

Only 6% of women have titles to land in Kenya. Although it is a legal right for them to own property, societal norms of discrimination against women have long been the driving factor of them being unable to obtain and keep property. Kenyan women are at risk of being victims of land grabbing, usually in the way of their husbands running them off or abusing them causing them to have to flee. These women are put in vulnerable situations, feeling forced to abandon their children to orphanages, and pushes women to make less than ideal choices, such as prostitution. This can lead to a higher mortality rate, and ultimately leaves many children orphaned.

Available Resources

To help combat these issues, many organizations and campaigns, such as Stand for Her Land and Kenyan Peasants League have started garnering support and finding these depleted resources to help the community. Stand for Her Land has worked on advocacy for women of lesser status and income to exercise their rights on gaining legal access to land. Along with this, the Kenyan Peasants League gathers community-based funding to purchase land for women who had their lands usurped during major land-grabbing times.

Policy Action

The government has now also taken a stronger stance on these issues, one main way being by creating the National Care Reform Strategy for Children in Kenya. This specific act focuses a lot on family based care in society and ensuring that they are provided with the resources to continue in society. However, to break this cycle of poverty as a whole, national and international organizations need to prioritize things such as accessibility to healthcare, enforcing a woman’s right to own land, and overall strengthening child-welfare programs. Changes like these can likely help the livelihoods of not only the children in Kenya, but also the community that exists around them.

Conclusion

In summary, poverty in Kenya has shown to have lasting effects that have caused severe damage to especially the orphaned children of the country. Studies show that there will be long term effects on their overall developmental issues that will likely follow them into their adulthood. In order to properly address these matters, more accessible resources need to be implemented.

– Mansi Sampda, Jessica Norman, Melissa Kronblat and Kalea Mailangi

Mansi, Jessica, Melissa and Kalea are based in Bothell, WA, USA and focus on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

, ,

How Maternal Health Programs Reduce Mortality Rates in Benin

Mortality Rates in BeninAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), Benin has a maternal mortality ratio of 518 deaths per 100,000 live births, meaning hundreds of women die each year from preventable pregnancy-related complications. Common causes include blood loss, infection, high blood pressure, insufficient post-partum care and even financial limitations. 

These causes highlight the role of maternal health programs in reducing maternal mortality rates in Benin by offering assistance, care and education. These services improve survival rates, reduce long-term health complications and strengthen families and communities. Several international organizations are actively working to reduce maternal mortality rates in Benin.

Médecins Sans Frontières

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, partners with the Benin Ministry of Health (MOH) to support activities in villages that promote pregnancy education and awareness, consultations and access to contraceptives. MSF has also assisted several health centers by supporting staff recruitment, improving working conditions and supplying essential medical equipment and medicines. 

In addition, MSF has supported more than 9,920 people with safe deliveries, assisted 3,253 people with family counseling and conducted more than 22,211 prenatal consultations. These efforts directly reduce preventable maternal deaths by ensuring that women have access to skilled medical professionals, safe delivery environments and essential reproductive health services. By expanding access to skilled care, MSF plays a key role in reducing maternal mortality rates in Benin.

UNFPA

Another organization working to improve maternal health in Benin is the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). UNFPA is an international reproductive health agency of the U.N. that operates in more than 150 countries. Its mission is “to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.” 

UNFPA also addresses the “three delays” in maternal health: deciding to seek care, reaching a health facility and receiving adequate treatment. During its previous program cycle in Benin, UNFPA reached more than 985,944 new modern contraceptive users, prevented more than 290,296 unintended pregnancies and educated more than 809,820 adolescents and youth about reproductive health. By addressing both medical barriers and social obstacles, such as education and access to contraception, UNFPA helps prevent high-risk pregnancies and long-term complications, lowering maternal mortality rates in Benin.

Benin Mamas

Benin Mamas is a local nonprofit organization supporting maternal health through programs such as the Safe Motherhood Initiative, Mental Health and Postpartum Support, Smart Starts: Saying No to Teen Pregnancies and Mamas Speak Up. Through empowerment programs, educational workshops and targeted interventions, Benin Mamas expands access to maternal health care across rural and underserved communities.

Final Remarks

Together, these three initiatives demonstrate how maternal health programs support underserved and rural communities by filling gaps in government services and expanding access to essential care. By strengthening reproductive health services and promoting education, MSF, UNFPA and Benin Mamas help reduce maternal mortality rates in Benin and build a more sustainable future for families.

– Bianca P. Gunawan

Bianca is based in Jakarta, Indonesia and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Improving Public Health Via Clean Water in Benin

Clean Water InitiativesBenin is a small country in West Africa with a 36.2% poverty rate. Despite its economic growth over the past years, clean water initiatives in Benin remain critical, as many communities still struggle to access safe drinking water and sanitation. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), lower respiratory infections are the second leading cause of death in Benin, while diarrheal diseases rank fourth. 

Many of these deaths are preventable with improved hygiene, sanitation and access to clean water. Access to clean water plays an important role in improving health in Benin, as it can foster economic opportunities and growth. Partnerships between the Beninese government and international organizations are working to help address this issue.

Join For Water

Join For Water is a nonprofit organization based in Belgium that has focused on reforestation and agroforestry since 1977 by planting trees and shrubs in rural areas. According to the organization, this approach improves water management and prevents sedimentation. It operates in eight countries, including Benin.

Join For Water also supports clean water access through environmental management, food production, drinking water and sanitation, as well as responsible consumption. In 2024, the organization expanded drinking water access to more than 16,485 households, improved access to latrines for more than 1,310 people and supported more than 6,949 farmer harvests. This demonstrates that environmental protection through reforestation and agroforestry can improve water management, leading to cleaner water, better hygiene and improved public health.

Institute of Cultural Affairs–Benin

With more than 35 member countries, the Institute of Cultural Affairs–Benin is part of a global network of nonprofits focused on advancing human development. It is affiliated with the Institute of Cultural Affairs International (ICA). Its mission is to support sustainable human development while fostering lasting change within communities and organizations. As a community, ICA partners with End Water Poverty to improve access to clean water and sanitation. 

End Water Poverty is an initiative in Benin that campaigns, advocates and mobilizes the government to protect, respect and fulfill people’s right to water and sanitation. Through its “Claim Your Water Rights” campaign, the coalition funds grassroots organizations and community-led advocacy efforts that push governments to uphold the human right to water and sanitation. This indicates that water access requires both environmental protection and policy advocacy. 

Together, these clean water initiatives in Benin ensure access to clean water and sanitation for rural and underserved communities across the country.

Final Thoughts

Many communities in Benin still face challenges accessing safe water and sanitation. However, nonprofit initiatives such as Join For Water, ICA and End Water Poverty address these issues through environmental restoration, advocacy and community campaigns. With continued support, these initiatives can improve public health, strengthen sanitation systems, expand economic opportunities and improve living conditions.

– Bianca P. Gunawan

Bianca is based in Jakarta, Indonesia and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Improvement in the Treatment of TB in Kenya

TB in KenyaTuberculosis (TB) is a condition that mostly affects a person’s lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body. TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which circulates through the air and spreads when inhaled. TB has been a persistent public health challenge in Kenya. According to the National Library of Medicine, TB is the fifth leading cause of death in the country. However, there has been a noticeable improvement in treating TB in Kenya. The director of the African region of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Diallo Abdourahmane, stated that Kenya reduced TB cases by 41% and TB-related deaths by 60%. This progress is attributed to treatments such as preventive therapy, the BPaL regimen and digital adherence technologies.

Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment

One treatment used today is tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT). Its goal is to prevent certain individuals from developing active TB by administering anti-tuberculosis medicine. The treatment destroys bacteria that have infected the body before they can harm organs or spread the illness. TPT specifically targets people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV weakens the body’s ability to fight infections, making individuals more vulnerable to TB. It is recommended for HIV patients to undergo this treatment to reduce the chance of developing TB. The preferred course consists of three months (3HP), during which the antibiotics isoniazid and rifapentine are taken once a week. However, this prescription may interact with other medicines, so each patient’s case should be considered individually.

BPaL Regimen

The BPaL regimen is a treatment course lasting six months. The WHO has recommended it as an alternative to lengthier treatments. The regimen combines four antibiotic medications: bedaquiline, pretomanid, linezolid and moxifloxacin. It targets drug-resistant TB, a form of the disease that does not respond to some standard medications. This treatment is primarily for adult patients and teenagers older than 14. Studies have shown a success rate of 89%, making it more effective than previous regimens.

Digital Adherence Technology

TB treatment outcomes have also improved with digital adherence technology (DAT). DAT refers to digital tools that use technological devices to record a patient’s daily medication information. Examples include smart pill boxes and medication sleeves. Researchers believe DAT motivates individuals with TB to take their daily medication consistently.

A 2026 study evaluated whether certain digital interventions improved TB treatment outcomes. The study found that digital platforms such as Keheala reduced the percentage of failed TB treatments, supporting the use of digital tools in TB care. DAT offers several benefits. Patients can choose the most suitable time to take their medication, fitting it into their routine. Patients can receive SMS reminders. Health care providers can access their patients’ information, allowing them to monitor consistency and identify patients who need additional support.

Looking Ahead

Although TB remains a serious issue in Kenya, the treatments discussed have demonstrated their effectiveness. Kenya has earned recognition from the WHO for its progress. The country has set further goals to reduce TB death rates by 90% and TB cases by 80% by 2030. Efforts in Kenya to reduce the impact of TB continue to show measurable results.

– Lara Ibrahim

Lara is based in Créteil, France and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Positive Work To Address HIV/AIDS in Georgia

HIV/AIDS in GeorgiaGeorgia has historically reported low rates of HIV, and new infections are concentrated among the most at-risk groups, such as men who have sex with men (MSM) and those who inject drugs. In 2024, Georgia passed legislation that limits queer individuals’ access to essential health services and therefore threatens the progress made to raise awareness, testing, treating and preventing HIV/AIDS. This important work now falls to community organizations such as Equality Movement and Tanadgoma, who are supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and continue their life-saving work to treat and prevent HIV/AIDS in Georgia among vulnerable and impoverished groups.

7 Key Facts About HIV/AIDS in Georgia

  1. UNAIDS classifies Georgia as having a low-level HIV epidemic.
  2. As of 2023, approximately 9,100-10,500 people are living with HIV/AIDS in Georgia, which is about 0.3% of the general adult population.
  3. Among the MSM population, the prevalence of HIV is 21.5%, which suggests current methods do not reach the most at-risk groups.
  4. The number of new HIV infections has been decreasing gradually since 2019.
  5. Concerningly, around 36% of those living with HIV are not aware of their HIV-positive status; individuals can remain symptom-free for years.
  6. About 2,492 people have died as a result of HIV/AIDS in Georgia since 1989.
  7. Around 71% of those with HIV are receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), which suppresses the virus and enables them to live long, healthy lives as well as reducing the risk of transmission

HIV/AIDS and Poverty in Georgia

HIV/AIDS and poverty are deeply and complexly intertwined. Those who deal with food insecurity, housing instability and/or are in poverty are significantly more vulnerable to getting an HIV infection. This is especially true if they rely on sex work to raise money for basic necessities, and where this power imbalance may not allow them to purchase and/or negotiate the use of condoms.

Similarly, those who live with HIV in their household are more at risk of falling into and remaining in poverty. Symptoms of HIV/AIDS can mean people are unable to work for long periods of time, or experience isolatio due to stigma, which can result in the loss of jobs, food security and housing, and in some places make them unable to pay for HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention healthcare.

This is a difficult cycle to break out of. Some treatments, such as ART drugs, must be taken every day with food, and therefore, a lack of adequate food resources and consistent medication places people further vulnerable to severe symptoms of HIV/AIDS. This means they are likely to be out of work for longer, making it even more difficult to raise funds for food and/or medication.

Although steadily declining, in 2024, 9.4% of the population of Georgia was below their national absolute poverty line. The proportion of the population living below the international poverty line at $3.00 a day, and therefore at a higher risk of contracting HIV/AIDS in Georgia was 4.2%.

Community Work 

Organizations such as Tanadgoma and Equality Movement recognize this threat and have a commitment to their mission of reducing the number of new HIV/AIDS diagnoses as well as changing social attitudes to the infection.

Tanadgoma, a UNFPA partner, are working to increase the HIV testing service uptake by providing access to HIV information and services to young people to counter the issue of more than 50% of new HIV diagnoses occurring at a late stage. A key effort of this is to ensure that their environment is free of stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV/AIDS, and other contributing factors such as safe syringe procedures and sex work, despite the recent legislation. People such as Tamar Gakhokidze, a woman who is HIV positive after being infected during a dental procedure in jail, work with these organizations to break down misconceptions and stigma and hope to offer an example to others of someone living with HIV/AIDS in Georgia, but without fear or shame.

Equality Movement have developed a self-testing online platform to help popularize testing for HIV among at-risk groups such as MSM. These tests are free and individuals can complete them at home, allowing them to complete them anonymously with no need to visit community centers. They are also accessible to those in poverty. Also included in these self-test packages are condoms and lubricant that can help prevent the spread and new diagnoses of HIV/AIDS in Georgia; so far, Equality Movement have distributed more than 170,000 condoms and 45,000 lubricants through this project. As an organization, it has also provided Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), an effective daily pill to prevent contracting HIV, to more than 500 people for free.

Looking Ahead

In response to the continued work of organizations such as Tanadgoma and Equality Movement, the Georgian Anti-Corruption Bureau has been persecuting and pressuring civil society and non-governmental organizations to cease their activities. This has not swayed Equality Movement from its mission, and they state, “despite the unlawfully initiated monitoring, we continue our activities and legal efforts to stop the enforcement of repressive laws. We will use all available legal means to protect our rights and the rights of the citizens of Georgia.”

– Stephanie Gable

Stephanie is based in Wales, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

The Proactive Fight Against HIV/AIDS in the Solomon Islands

HIV/AIDS in the Solomon IslandsThe Solomon Islands, a vibrant archipelago of nearly 1,000 islands in the South Pacific, continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience in public health management. While the nation faces geographic and economic hurdles — ranking 156 out of 193 on the Human Development Index — the rate of HIV/AIDS in the Solomon Islands remains one of the most stable in the region.

For decades, the archipelago has maintained a low HIV prevalence rate. Data shows that since 1994, only 0.1% of the population aged 15-49 lives with HIV/AIDS in the Solomon Islands. Between 1994 and 2016, health officials recorded only 30 cases, a testament to the nation’s early intervention and cultural protective factors. 

While the historical numbers remain low, recent years have seen a slight uptick in reported cases of HIV/AIDS in the Solomon Islands. Rather than viewing this as a setback, health experts interpret increased numbers as a sign of enhanced diagnostic capabilities. 

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) has significantly expanded testing sites and medical supply procurement. By making testing more accessible, the government identifies cases earlier, enabling immediate treatment. This shift from low numbers through limited testing to active surveillance marks a positive evolution in the country’s medical strategy.

Overcoming Barriers to Treatment

With nearly 1,000 islands in total, treatment for HIV/AIDS in the Solomon Islands has not come without its unique set of obstacles:

  • Geographic Isolation: Realizing a central clinic for antiretroviral therapy (ART) can be physically and financially taxing for rural residents.
  • Stigma and Discrimination: Social and religious norms, combined with a lack of confidentiality in small island communities, create a fear of social rejection that discourages individuals from seeking HIV testing and life-saving treatment.
  • Regulatory Scrutiny: For non-nationals, entry and residency restrictions based on HIV status can create significant legal hurdles for accessing long-term care.

Strategic Measures To Improve Access

To address these difficulties, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) and its partners have introduced the following improvements:

  • Decentralized Testing and Treatment: The program equips area health centers with rapid diagnostic test kits and ensures that even in remote provinces, health workers can identify new cases within minutes and immediately connect patients to antiretroviral therapy (ART).
  • Commodity Security: Health Minister Dr. Paul Bosawai recently emphasized that the ministry is streamlining the supply chain to ensure that HIV commodities and diagnostic kits remain in stock and are readily available in all provinces.
  • Mother-to-Child Prevention: By integrating HIV testing into routine antenatal care, the MHMS has successfully maintained a near-zero rate of mother-to-child transmission in recent years. These proactive efforts mean that 100% of those diagnosed now have access to free, government-sponsored treatment, transforming a potential surge into a manageable and treated health condition.

Beyond clinical settings, the nation prioritizes education as a primary tool for preventing HIV/AIDS in the Solomon Islands. Community-led initiatives utilize radio broadcasts and local leaders to share information about sexual health and disease prevention. 

By involving traditional leaders and local health workers, the government ensures that health messaging respects cultural nuances while providing vital medical facts. These programs empower citizens to take charge of their own health and encourage voluntary testing, further contributing to the slight rise in known cases, which allows for a more accurate public health response.

Looking Toward a Healthy Future

The Solomon Islands is not merely reacting to HIV; it is building a prevention strategy. The government’s commitment to the Fast-Track targets set by UNAIDS shows a clear path forward. By prioritizing education and investing in rural health care infrastructure, the nation ensures that the recent surge in data translates into a long-term surge in survival and well-being. 

With continued international support and a dedicated local workforce, the Solomon Islands stands as a model for how a developing nation can manage infectious diseases through unity and proactive care.

– Rebecca Cameron

Rebecca is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Elderly Poverty in Lesotho

Elderly Poverty in LesothoLesotho, a small, landlocked country in southern Africa, continues to face high levels of poverty and unemployment. While much attention is often given to youth unemployment and child poverty, elderly poverty remains a serious but less visible challenge. Many older adults in Lesotho struggle to meet basic needs and rely heavily on limited social protection and family support to survive.

According to the World Bank, about 49% of Lesotho’s population lives below the national poverty line, with poverty rates significantly higher in rural areas where most older people reside. As people age, their ability to earn income through physical labor declines, yet access to formal pension systems remains limited. Many elderly individuals worked in informal employment or subsistence agriculture during their productive years, leaving them without stable retirement income.

The Impact of HIV/AIDS on Elderly Households

Lesotho’s high HIV/AIDS prevalence has further deepened elderly poverty. The country has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates globally, estimated at around 22% among adults, according to UNAIDS. As a result, many older adults have become primary caregivers for grandchildren after losing adult children to the disease. UNICEF reports that elderly caregivers often use their limited income to cover food, school fees and healthcare costs for dependents, increasing financial strain and vulnerability within already poor households.

Lesotho’s high HIV/AIDS prevalence has further deepened elderly poverty. The country has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates globally, estimated at around 22% among adults, according to UNAIDS. As a result, many older adults have become primary caregivers for grandchildren after losing adult children to the disease. UNICEF reports that elderly caregivers often use their limited income to cover food, school fees and healthcare costs for dependents, increasing financial strain and vulnerability within already poor households.

Government Support Through the Old Age Pension

To address elderly poverty, the government of Lesotho introduced a non-contributory Old Age Pension (OAP) in 2004, providing monthly cash transfers to citizens aged 70 years and above. The pension reaches more than 80% of eligible older persons, making it one of the most extensive social protection programs in the country. Research by HelpAge International shows that the pension supports more than 83,000 older people in Lesotho and has helped reduce extreme poverty, improve food security and increase access to basic healthcare among beneficiaries. However, the pension amount remains modest and is often insufficient to fully cover rising living costs, especially as food prices and medical expenses increase.

Healthcare Access and Ongoing Challenges

Healthcare access remains a major challenge for elderly people living in poverty in Lesotho. Many older adults suffer from chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes and arthritis. While the country has expanded primary healthcare services, barriers such as transportation costs, long travel distances and limited access to specialized care persist, particularly in rural communities. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that older adults in low-income countries face higher risks of untreated chronic conditions due to financial and structural barriers within healthcare systems. 

The Role of NGOs in Supporting the Elderly

Non-governmental organizations also play a key role in supporting elderly people living in poverty in Lesotho. HelpAge International works with local partners to provide social protection support, healthcare outreach and advocacy for older people’s rights. In some communities, elderly beneficiaries report using pension income and NGO support to afford food, access healthcare services and care for dependents, helping to improve overall household stability. These programs help bridge gaps where government support alone is insufficient, particularly for elderly caregivers responsible for grandchildren.

Looking Ahead

Reducing elderly poverty in Lesotho requires sustained investment in social protection, healthcare services and community-based support systems. Strengthening the Old Age Pension, expanding age-friendly healthcare access and supporting families caring for older relatives can help reduce vulnerability.

As Lesotho continues its efforts toward poverty reduction, greater attention to the needs of its ageing population is essential. Ensuring that older adults can live with dignity, access basic services and remain socially included is a critical part of inclusive and sustainable development.

– Segun Oyekale

Segun is based in Lagos, Nigeria and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Disability and Poverty in Suriname

Disability and Poverty in Suriname Suriname is a small coastal nation situated in the northeast of South America. Poverty remains a significant challenge in the country, with 17.5% of the population living below the national poverty line.

Disability as a Poverty Multiplier

Studies considering the intersectional nature of poverty have demonstrated that disability and poverty are strongly interdependent in Suriname.

When examining multidimensional poverty headcount rates, 25% of those with “at least a lot of functional difficulty” are multidimensionally poor. This compares with 21% of those with “some functional difficulty” and 16% of those with “no difficulty.”

There is also an 8% difference between disabled and non-disabled groups in reported access to safely managed sanitation. Among respondents, 96% of those experiencing “no difficulty” reported full access, compared to 87% of those with “at least a lot of functional difficulty.”

Access to the Job Market and Education

People with disabilities in Suriname also face several barriers to social mobility compared to the non-disabled population.

According to 2020 International Labour Organization (ILO) statistics, 39.9% of the disabled population was employed in Suriname, compared with 53.2% of non-disabled people. Similarly, there was a difference of almost 15% between rates of economic activity, with 42.3% of disabled adults ages 15-64 considered economically active compared to 57.9% of non-disabled respondents.

Access to education also varies between disabled and non-disabled groups. Out of a group of surveyed children ages 6-14, 69% of those experiencing “a lot of difficulty” attended school, compared with 82% of those with “some difficulty” and 94% of non-disabled children.

Disabled populations in Suriname are therefore particularly vulnerable to cycles of poverty, especially given their increased likelihood of unemployment, which is a major contributor to poverty.

Action Toward Addressing Disability Poverty

In 2024, a project spearheaded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) was approved to strengthen the country’s social protection system. $40 million was allocated to the initiative, which aims to protect the most vulnerable Surinamese populations, including people with disabilities. The IDB pledged to support 20,000 disabled people and their families.

Several organizations also continue to provide services and support to people with disabilities in Suriname.

Opo Doro, an institution providing home-based services to people living with disabilities in Suriname, expanded its impact with recent funding support. As a result, it established a day care and workshop service that provides disabled communities with practical skills.

Surcare is another project founded to raise funds for a residential care home for people with disabilities in Suriname.

An American organization launched in 2024, Surcare supports the In de Ruimte care home by helping address funding gaps not covered by local donations or government support. The foundation also works to raise awareness about the work of the home.

Looking Ahead

Although there is still work to be done to address the interconnected challenges of disability and poverty in Suriname, the scale of investment from the IDB suggests increased attention to supporting disabled communities. Both international projects and community initiatives indicate progress toward improving conditions for this vulnerable population.

– Phoebe Lang-Clapp

Phoebe is based in Montréal, Québec, Canada and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr