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OAFLAD Elects New Leadership

OAFLADThe Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) has elected new leadership for the 2025-2027 term, with Sierra Leone’s first lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, taking over the president position. The organization announced this during its 29th General Assembly on Feb. 15, which was also held alongside the African Union Summit.

While also being the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (a policy outlining how to achieve gender equality and women’s rights) this assembly’s theme was, Building on Beijing: First Ladies Championing Women’s Leadership and Rights Through African Heritage.

New Leadership

Mrs. Fatima Maada Bio, the first Sierra Leonean first lady to lead OAFLAD, is widely known for her advocacy on gender-based violence and education shown through initiatives like her “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign which launched in 2018. She will be joined by  Dr Ana Afonso Dias Lourenço, first lady of Angola, who was elected vice president, African Union reports.

Aside from the newly elected President and Vice President, there are also six first ladies that will be a part of the steering committee. These new  leaders will be responsible for implementing OAFLAD’s Strategic Framework 2025-30, which builds off their 2019- 23 plan and focuses on four key areas listed below:

  • Health – Expanding access to maternal and child health care, as well as looking to combat communicable and non-communicable diseases.
  • Education – Increasing school enrollment for girls and advocating for quality education.
  • Gender-based violence – Strengthening prevention programs and support services through legal frameworks.
  • Women’s economic empowerment – Promoting financial independence through better financial inclusion.

Implementation Strategy

OAFLAD plans to support these goals by creating more partnerships with international organizations, governments and civil society groups. One of its major partnerships is a three-year agreement with the Sabin Vaccine Institute which will allow them to support HPV prevention and cervical cancer elimination across Africa. The Sabin Vaccine Institute states, “In sub-Saharan Africa, cervical cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death among women… the region accounted for 23% of global cervical cancer mortality.” Partnering with groups like the Sabin Vaccine Institute is important for OAFLAD, however making sure these groups align with their goals is one of their main concerns.

When looking at partnerships, the organization focuses on providing support to ensure long-term sustainable results, implementing an evaluation system to track progress and ensure accountability, reducing any negative environmental impacts by OAFLAD and involving with programs based on evidence and successes.

One Major OAFLAD Campaign

An ongoing campaign that has had success is its continent-wide “Free To Shine” campaign. OAFLAD and the African Union co-lead launched this campaign in 2018, and are looking to make substantial changes by 2030. Their goal is to end new HIV infections in children and to keep mothers alive.

They are combating HIV by looking to put a halt to vertical transmission (the passing of HIV from mother to child). Through Interventions during pregnancy, labor, delivery and breastfeeding, the chances of vertical transmission can drop to as low as 5%. Within the first year of their campaign’s start 23 countries joined them in launching nationally.

Aside from this, there are many other objectives this campaign looks to further, which include raising awareness for HIV in children and why there is a need to prioritize children and mothers. The campaign also focuses on helping more people understand prevention strategies and highlighting and removing barriers that keep mothers from finding effective help when looking for HIV-related health services.

Since its founding in 2002, OAFLAD has played a major role in advancing women’s rights and development across Africa. With the new leadership in place for the 2025-2027 term, the organization aims to build on these past successes and push for long-term change by 2030.

– Joey Picolli

Joey is based in Boulder, CO, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How big is the hole? Suspension of USAID in Ethiopia

ethiopia usaidEthiopia is the largest recipient of USAID in sub-Saharan Africa. After receiving the money for 2023, Ethiopia has seen a suspension in the $1 billion in aid it receives. The funding cut has left the country in a vulnerable position, disrupting critical aspects of its healthcare system, including data management, medicine procurement, delivery, and workforce training and retention

Where the Suspension Has Hit Hardest?

The suspension of USAID funding has severely disrupted Ethiopia’s fight against diseases like malaria, HIV and tuberculosis. Around 5,000 health care workers lost their jobs, affecting vital services such as vaccinations, patient care and disease surveillance. The funding cut also threatens Ethiopia’s global “95-95-95” HIV treatment goals, with 503,000 people receiving care across 1,400 health facilities. Additionally, 10,000 data clerks responsible for managing HIV treatment have lost their jobs, further hindering the delivery and monitoring of care.

This could cripple efforts to combat HIV in the short to medium term, leaving many patients vulnerable. This has worsened the strain on the health care system, leaving it unable to provide basic services and hindering disease eradication efforts, deepening health poverty. 

With USAID support, Ethiopia launched a five-year health sector plan (HSTP-II) from 2020-2025 to improve health care. The plan aims to ensure quality, accessible health care, strengthen governance and leverage technology for reliable health data. A key challenge is the severe shortage of health care workers, with less than 100,000 staff members, far below the 445,000 necessary for universal health coverage. The plan’s success is crucial to expanding services and addressing this workforce gap.

The suspension of USAID funding has severely impacted Ethiopia’s HSTP-II, halting training programs and delaying the expansion of the health care workforce. Many NGOs have been hit hard by the suspension, including the Tesfa Social and Development Association (TSDA), which aids HIV patients with food, clothing and school supplies, according to The Guardian. The funding cut has crippled the organization, leaving those who depend on TSDA in even worse health and poverty. Staff layoffs and operational challenges have worsened the already dire situation for those relying on the organization’s support.

Solutions

The government has tried to enhance its support for local NGOs by trying to empower them by simplifying regulatory frameworks, in the hope this will enhance the operational efficiency and sustainability of NGO’s despite the budget constraints they are now facing. Following the advice of the Ethiopian Civil Society Organisation Authority, NGOs that did not rely on USAID funding are forming alliances with other local NGOs, enabling them to share resources, have joint fundraising efforts, and increase advocacy for policy changes to support the nonprofit sector during this challenging period.

NGOs such as the Mekedonia Humanitarian Association focus on supporting the critically disabled, elderly and mentally ill by providing housing, clothes and other vital amenities. Another organization is the Ethiopian Human Rights Council, which focuses on providing legal aid and investigating human rights abuses. These have turned out to be important practices for non-USAID-funded NGOs as it has provided support for these NGOs to allow them to continue their work during the period of the suspension.

Conclusion

The suspension of USAID has left Ethiopia’s health care system in an unprecedented crisis, affecting disease eradication efforts, health care workforce expansion and the operations of vital NGOs. The abrupt withdrawal of $1 billion in aid has crippled essential programs, forced widespread layoffs and disrupted Ethiopia’s ability to meet global health commitments. The impact on HSTP-II and organizations like the Tesfa Social and Development Association underscores how deeply intertwined USAID funding was with Ethiopia’s healthcare infrastructure.

Efforts to diversify funding streams, improve private sector involvement and empower local NGOs mark a shift towards long-term self-sufficiency, though the short-term outlook remains dire. Ultimately, while Ethiopia is making strides to mitigate the crisis, the loss of USAID has left an undeniable mark on its healthcare system. Whether the government’s measures will be enough to compensate for the loss of funding remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: The suspension has deepened Ethiopia’s health crisis, and the road to recovery will be long and arduous.

– Oliver Hedges

Oliver is based in Lancaster, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Powering Progress: Renewable Energy in Ghana

ghana renewable energyIn 2019, the Government of Ghana, in collaboration with stakeholders including the Energy Commission of Ghana, the Ministry of Energy and international partners, launched the Renewable Energy Master Plan (REMP) designed to improve poverty reduction, job creation and economic growth. As the primary goal of the plan remains to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve 10% renewable energy penetration by 2030, with a focus on solar, wind, hydro and biomass energy sources, it also seeks to attract investments and create jobs.

Economic Landscape in Ghana

According to the World Bank, Ghana’s poverty challenges have persisted since 1990, with periods of progress and setbacks. However, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues, leading to a significant rise in poverty levels by 2020. In 2022, public debt in Ghana rose to 78.3% of GDP. As a result, Ghana faced worsening living standards which forced many people into extreme poverty. For instance, Statista data indicates that approximately 6.9 million Ghanaians were living in extreme poverty in 2024, surviving on less than $2.15 per day.

Renewable Energy in Ghana: The Potential

Renewable energy projects, such as REMP, could address broader socio-economic challenges such as job creation, which could reshape and improve the country’s economic landscape. Ghana’s abundant natural resources, including significant renewable energy potential in solar, wind, hydro and biomass, could enhance key aspects of socio-economic life, such as economic growth.

The country has made significant progress in advancing its renewable energy targets, leveraging its solar, wind, small-scale hydropower and biomass potential. A key contributor to this effort is the Bui Power Authority, which has installed 250 MWp of solar panels, significantly boosting Ghana’s solar capacity and supporting the national goal of increasing renewable energy in the energy mix.

Additionally, the Bui Power Authority is developing Africa’s largest floating solar farm, with a 50 MW project set for completion by 2024 and plans to expand to 250 MW by 2030. These initiatives, alongside the deployment of off-grid solar systems and mini-grids, have brought electricity to thousands of households in rural and underserved communities, aligning with the REMP’s objectives of promoting sustainable energy, reducing carbon emissions and improving energy access.

Furthermore, these projects have created thousands of jobs in construction, installation, and maintenance, positively impacting the job market and contributing to poverty reduction. Through these efforts, Ghana is demonstrating how strategic renewable energy investments can drive sustainable development, economic growth, and improved quality of life.

Impact on Ghana’s Job Market: Key Data and Outcomes

Ghana has prioritized direct job creation through labour-intensive activities such as construction and installation of renewable energy projects. This initiative has significantly impacted the job market, generating both direct and indirect employment opportunities. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Annual Report 2025, the renewable energy sector has seen substantial employment growth, with solar energy projects contributing a significant percentage of jobs globally. Beyond direct employment, renewable energy in Ghana could improve job growth in related industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and logistics, as the production and supply of renewable energy equipment require substantial labour.

One of the most transformative aspects of renewable energy is the focus on skill development. In 2024, the Energy Commission started the Energy Academy, aiming to improve the skills of professional working in energy industry in Ghana, enhancing their employability in the growing green economy.

The Future

Renewable energy in Ghana has made significant strides in addressing economic challenges such as poverty, low employment rates and slow economic growth through job creation and professional training. As the renewable energy plans move forward, this global collaboration remains essential to achieving its goals, including the construction of advanced solar ecosystems and high employability rates, ultimately transforming Ghana’s job market and driving sustainable economic growth.

– Liubov Linnyk

Liubov is based in England and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The East African Community and the Eastern Congo Crisis

The East African CommunityThe Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has endured more than three decades of conflict, with constant attacks on civilians and insecurity fueling a severe humanitarian crisis. Even before the recent surge in violence, 21 million people were internally displaced and in dire need of humanitarian assistance, a number that continues to rise daily. The ongoing DRC crisis in Eastern Congo has displaced more than 6 million people, creating a cycle of dependency on aid.

This situation will likely worsen the DRC crisis due to funding shortages, including significant cuts from the United States, which accounted for 70% of the DRC’s aid in 2024. Despite these challenges, humanitarian organizations and regional neighbors like the East African Community (EAC) remain committed to fostering peace and delivering essential aid to the Congolese people.

First Congo War 1960-1965

Shortly after gaining independence from Belgium, chaos erupted as the Force Publique soldiers at the Thysville military base, marking the beginning of the DRC crisis. Congolese soldiers revolted against their white counterparts, demanding better wages. This unrest quickly escalated to other military bases, igniting widespread violence across the nation.

Just two days earlier, the provinces of Katanga and South Kasai had declared their independence from Congo. These post-colonial power struggles led to the assassination of Patrice Lumumba on January 17, 1961, which only deepened the chaos. On November 25, 1965, Mobutu Sese Seko seized power in a coup, renaming the country Zaire. He ruled until 1997 when he was ousted after decades of corruption and economic mismanagement.

The Rwanda Genocide and its Aftermath

When the Rwandan genocide ended in 1994, the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) reclaimed the Rwandan capital, Kigali. The advance of the Tutsi-led rebels forced more than one million Hutu refugees to flee to the DRC (then Zaire), where they staged attacks against the Kigali government while being sheltered by Mobutu.

In 1996, the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) and the Alliance of Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Congo-Zaire (ADFL), under the command of Laurent Kabila, conducted attacks on the camps. The war pitted the ADFL against Mobutu Sese Seko’s Zairian Armed Forces (FAZ), Interahamwe militia, Rwandan Armed Forces ex-FAR and mercenaries. This rebellion stoked ethnic tensions, particularly with the Banyamulenge Tutsis in eastern Congo and eventually led to the overthrow of Mobutu in 1997.

Second Congo War 1998-2003

After Mobutu fled to exile in Morocco, Kabila expelled all foreign soldiers, but the Hutu militias stationed in eastern Congo continued their attacks on Rwanda. In August 1998, Rwanda invaded eastern Congo with the support of Congolese Tutsi and rebel groups against Kabila. This marked the start of the Second Congo War, which drew in as many as 14 different armies, including troops from Angola, Namibia and Zimbabwe, who backed Kabila against Burundi, Uganda and Rwandan forces against Kabila.

The wars led to countless deaths, displacements and entrenched ethnic divisions and resource-driven conflicts in eastern Congo, leaving a legacy of instability that persists today.

The Role of the East African Community

The EAC is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, Burundi, DRC and Somalia. The community has committed to maintaining peace and restoring stability in the DRC. Some of the interventions include:

  • In July 1999, Rwanda, Uganda and four other warring nations signed the Lusaka Accord, formalizing a ceasefire to end the Second Congo War.
  • In 2002, Rwanda and Uganda endorsed the Pretoria Agreement, while Uganda and the DRC agreed to withdraw Ugandan troops and restore bilateral relations under the Luanda Agreement.
  • Between 2008 and 2009, Rwanda and DRC held joint military operations called Kimia to disarm armed groups in eastern DRC.
  • In 2022, the EAC deployed regional forces to eastern DRC to work with the DRC forces to combat armed groups and support humanitarian efforts.
  • In 2022, the EAC Nairobi Process emerged, rallying regional leaders, civil society and international partners to prioritize dialogue and negotiation, particularly pushing for dialogue between the government and M23. 
  • In 2023, the Joint EAC-SADC united regional leaders in committing to a lasting solution, urging peaceful coexistence. Despite setbacks, such as President Tshisekedi’s refusal to attend a virtual summit hosted by Kenya’s William Ruto in 2025, regional collaboration remains central to resolving the crisis.

Final Remarks

The East African Community has dedicated significant efforts to fostering dialogue and promoting peace in the DRC, from a conflict dynamic to peace initiatives. However, it has encountered various challenges and criticisms. The deployment and subsequent withdrawal of the EAC Regional Force underscored the need for a more effective approach to tackle the issues comprehensively.

The differing economic and political interests among member states complicate the mission to pursue peace, as these divergent priorities have prompted the DRC government to seek assistance from external parties, further exacerbating the country’s instability.

The DRC crisis is a complex weave of historical injustices, failed governance, external meddling and a lack of global concern. Achieving a lasting solution goes beyond ceasefires. It requires dismantling systems that favor resource exploitation at the expense of human dignity. It also calls for holding regional powers responsible for destabilizing and empowering Congolese communities to take charge of their recovery.

– Grace Ruria

Grace is based in Nairobi, Kenya and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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USAID in Sudan: What Does the Shutdown Mean

usaid in sudanAs the Trump administration continues to shut down various foreign aid programs, the reverberations have been felt around the world. Sudan, in particular, has been thrust into a state of crisis following the closure of more than 1,000 USAID-supported soup kitchens and medical centers.

Crisis in Sudan

Sudan, a country of more than 50 million people located in East Africa, has been in a state of national emergency as war rages between the national army and the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Thousands of families have been displaced due to the conflict, and humanitarian aid groups have reported malnutrition cases of millions of citizens, of which 3.2 million are children under 5 years old.

As of December 2024, more than half the population is experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity, a figure which has only worsened since the halting of U.S. foreign aid. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported more than 50,000 cases of cholera in 11 states and mass exodus has put pressure on neighboring countries including Chad and South Sudan, which are already struggling with their own hunger crises.

USAID Levels Pre-Shutdown

Before the shutdown, USAID in Sudan was responsible for providing between 70% and 80% of funding for flexible cash programs, making it the largest single donor out of multiple countries and global organizations, according to BBC.

These programs consisted largely of an extended network of communal food kitchens— emergency response rooms (ERR)— which provided food, medicine and supplies for families located in regions out of reach from foreign aid workers.

Information regarding USAID in Sudan funding statistics is no longer available for viewing on the federal website, but archived reports have estimated that the U.S. has contributed more than $2 billion since the outbreak of the civil war in April 2023.

In 2024, the U.S. distributed $661 million of aid to Sudan through USAID. With this funding, USAID partners were able to reach nearly 6.7 million Sudanese citizens requiring emergency food assistance, in addition to providing safe drinking water to more than 8 million citizens as of April 2024.

Effects of the Shutdown

President Trump’s executive order to halt all foreign aid activity while conducting a 90-day review operates to cut all programs deemed extraneous to U.S. interests. Around 90% of USAID programs will be cut completely, consisting of $60 billion of foreign aid sent around the world.

This has halted many programs mid-transit, withholding crucial aid to those most in need. The federal government has granted an exception to emergency food assistance, but unclear guidelines have caused widespread confusion around implementation, BBC reports.

As funding disappeared overnight, an estimated 1,000 ERRs had to close, plunging the population deeper into crisis, according to NPR.

According to the BBC, around 2 million Sudanese citizens depended on these ERRs for food and medicine, and must now look elsewhere.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has outlined foreign aid requirements by country each year. In 2024, approximately 67% of the $2.7 billion required aid for Sudan was met, with the U.S. as the largest bilateral donor contributing 48% of committed funds. However, there are several other organizations that are working to help people in Sudan.

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

The IRC has operated in Sudan since 1981, delivering food and health services through six different offices located throughout the country. The range of programs are diverse, including water, sanitation, and hygiene services (WASH), gender-based services for women and children (GBV), health and nutrition, and multi-purpose cash aid.

Led by county director Eatizaz Yousif, IRC’s team in Sudan has opened and closed multiple offices and dispatched mobile medical teams. It also assembles and distributes “dignity kits”— packages containing hygiene products and basic supplies for women and girls

Save the Children

Save the Children is one of the largest NGOs operating in Sudan, providing life-saving medical and malnutrition care to millions of Sudanese citizens. Programs include health, nutrition, food security and livelihoods, hygiene, shelter, child protection, and education. Since the outbreak of war in 2023, Save the Children has reached 3.8 million people, including 1.7 million children.

Save the Children focuses on reaching children and families in the most remote or hard-to-reach areas of Sudan. Teams currently operate in 13 out of the 18 states.

The World Food Program (WFP)

The WFP is responsible for providing emergency food assistance or cash to vulnerable refugees, internally displaced residents, and shock-affected communities. The WFP focuses on a wide range of areas— child malnutrition programs, legislative assistance, vocational skills training, irrigation systems, and crop storage representing only a subset. Since April 2023, the WFP has reached over 11 million people.

The U.S. served as the largest single donor to WFP operations before the shutdown, which is likely to cause some scalebacks in the coming weeks. However, the WFP was granted an exception to resume food purchases and deliveries under existing USAID programs — specifically, the Title II Food for Peace Program, in which global NGOs purchase surplus crops from American farmers to assist in emergency food aid

The shutdown of USAID in Sudan has constituted a major blow to progress being made in health, food, and poverty programs assisting those most affected by conflict. As cuts continue to be made in the U.S., it will fall to other nations and NGOs to fill in the gaps amidst a deepening humanitarian crisis.

– Sadie Claps

Sadie is based in Seattle, WA, USA and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Child Soldiers in Burkina Faso: Why Child Recruitment Is a Crisis

Child Soldiers in Burkina FasoAccording to the U.N. Secretary-General’s annual report on Children and Armed Conflict, published in June 2024, terrorist groups in Burkina Faso predominantly recruited 169 child soldiers. Since the outbreak of conflict in August 2015 between Islamist groups and the government, Burkina Faso has faced yet another political and social challenge alongside child labor: child soldiers recruitment. Alongside ongoing cases of child abuse—including killings, kidnappings and labor exploitation— military extremist groups’ recruitment of child soldiers in Burkina Faso is increasing by nearly 100 individuals annually. Despite extensive child protection efforts by UNICEF and other organizations, such as Save the Children and Caritas, violations and crimes against children, and the recruitment of child soldiers in Burkina Faso continue to rise due to the government’s unstable position, a worsening humanitarian crisis and societal divisions.

Brief Background of the Burkina Faso Conflict

The ongoing conflict in Burkina Faso escalated on August 23, 2015, when a rebel Islamist group affiliated with an Islamist insurgency movement attacked multiple government posts, resulting in numerous civilian deaths and injuries. According to U.N. reports, nearly 10 years of war have killed at least 10,000 civilians and combatants, not including regular kidnappings. The statistics on political instability, the rise of new hotspots and the increase in existing ones are disheartening. An analytical report by Al Jazeera showed that the number of hotspot locations increased from 303 in 2018 to 2,216 locations in 2019, representing an approximate rise of 631.3% in just one year. The most vulnerable groups in these conflict zones remain women, the elderly and children, who suffer not only from the humanitarian crisis but also from the widespread practice of child soldier recruitment, a practice that the Burkina Faso government strictly prohibits.

Where Does Child Soldier Recruitment Take Place?

Since the practice of child soldier recruitment is widespread and often beyond state control, its origins remain unclear. Some of the most significant instances of child soldier use throughout history occurred during the Vietnam War, World War II and in modern times, within Russian Army forces in the Russo-Ukrainian war. However, the regions that suffer the most from the practice of child soldier recruitment are primarily in Africa. According to the U.N. annual report, countries such as the Central African Republic, North Sudan, Sudan, Nigeria, Somalia, Mali and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are among the hardest-hit territories. The report indicates that armed groups recruit between 100 and 2,000 children as soldiers annually in these areas.

Child Soldiers in Burkina Faso and Child Abuse

While the humanitarian crisis and war crimes continue to be major issues, the statistics on child abuse in the country during this period are also rapidly worsening. Given the unstable position of the government, the vulnerability of civilians, particularly women and children, has become a deeply challenging issue to resolve. According to UNICEF, up to 93% of children in the country lack access to public health services, hygiene, nutrition and education. Additionally, UN Trade and Development reports that “nearly four out of 10 people live in extreme poverty.” This situation is caused by insufficient production capacity for goods and services, the challenging transition from a highly centralized state economy to a market economy, major political instability, the geographical disadvantage of being landlocked and external debt.

Another significant issue is the regular recruitment of child soldiers by extremist military groups. The charitable organization Theirworld, dedicated to ending the global education crisis, reports on the causes of child soldier recruitment. In many cases, extremist groups kidnap children and force them into service, while social and economic pressures in their country drive others to join. Lacking proper access to education and humanitarian aid, and struggling with poverty, these children become more vulnerable to the influence of terrorist groups that promise them money or drugs in exchange for their service. As a result, those who join the military often commit war crimes, including killing civilians, or become victims of sexual abuse. Reuters reports that some of these children even participate in massacres.

The World’s Response

In response to the recruitment of child soldiers, some of the world’s largest organizations, such as UNICEF and Save the Children, have established multiple charitable programs that receive donations from volunteers worldwide. UNICEF’s reintegration program for former child soldiers has helped more than 8,700 children escape armed groups and reintegrate into civilian life. Through its partners, UNICEF provides these children with full access to education, health care, counseling services and a safe place to live during their recovery period.

Additionally, Save the Children delivers child rights protection and education services in African regions, while also creating petitions and securing ongoing donations to support the cause. It provides education to war-affected children, including former child soldiers, by offering accelerated learning programs and psychological support. Its efforts resulted in 4,000 children receiving education and becoming empowered, and 62,000 children receiving protection from harm.

Furthermore, the UN Integrated Strategy for the Sahel (UNISS), together with key partners such as UNICEF, UNHCR and the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict (OSRSG-CAAC), works with governments and armed groups to sign and implement action plans aimed at ending the recruitment and use of child soldiers.

A Call to Action

While the recruitment of child soldiers remains one of the most devastating and persistent issues in Burkina Faso, driven by severe economic and political challenges, powerful global organizations like the UN and UNICEF are uniting for a common goal: to combat poverty and protect the vulnerable. Through impactful campaigns such as UNICEF’s program for Children Associated with Armed Forces and Armed Groups (CAAFAG), they are working to protect children in conflict zones and ensure their reintegration into society in African regions including Burkina Faso. 

All the programs mentioned are working in Sahel conflict zones, where Burkina Faso is included, so far none of the specific branches to work only in Burkina Faso was created. Additionally, child soldiers receive the same help as other vulnerable children in Sahel conflict zones.

– Liubov Linnyk

Liubov is based in England and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poetry in Somalia: Using an Age-Old Art Form to Build Peace

Poetry in SomaliaSomalia, the easternmost country of Africa, is also referred to as a “Nation of Poets” or “Nation of Bards” for the Somali people’s deep appreciation for and proficiency with poetry. This form of storytelling has been used in Somali culture as early as storytelling has existed. The earliest poetry in Somalia is from the 18th century; a meditation by Sheekh Cali Cabduraxmaan. This ancient tradition has inspired a newer group that has surfaced just before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Somali Storytellers

The Somali Storytellers is a group of young poets who have banded together in hopes of reaching the people of Somalia, particularly the younger generations who will be shaping the future of the country. The group produces influential works of art and performances that bring out the nation’s history and ancient culture but also get a touch of modernity.

The UNDP founded a Digital Storytelling Bootcamp that took 20 young Somalis and trained them on how to share their meaningful stories around the world using whatever technology they had available such as smartphones or computers. After the training, the poets went on a field trip to Mogadishu where they could record and create stories in public with their community.

Zahra Abdihagi

There were 400 candidates, including Zahra Abdihagi. Although she faced fierce competition from other applicants, her remarkable accomplishments as a writer and storyteller, along with her efforts to promote social change, helped her to rise to the top.

Zahra received a high school education in Canada, and before she had even graduated, she had succeeded in publishing a book of short stories. Since graduating and returning to her home, she has won several awards for her poetry writing. In her efforts to write poetry in Somalia, she has won awards such as placing third in a Somali-language international poetry competition.

After she and the other 20 applicants went through a six-week course on the introduction of storytelling creation using smart technology, Zahra is now a part of other creative workshops, aiding in training 30 other young Somali people in the art of fables. Once the COVID-19 pandemic hit and everyone became isolated, she encouraged the youth to express themselves and share messages with the people to stay safe.

Digital Shelter

In 2020, Digital Shelter asked the women of Somalia to share their stories about these incidents which became a story and a media-driven campaign called the Without Fear project. In 2021, on International Women’s Day, Digital Shelter launched The Cabsi La’aan – The Without Fear Project. Zahra wrote a story that ended up across social media worldwide, reaching also thousands of women in Somalia.

Her poem speaks to the issues she and other Somali women experience online and in their communities. Every day online, women receive attacks on several different fronts including account hacking, blackmailing and various other forms of online bullying. By creating this poetry in Somalia, women can fight back against cyber attacks.

The Somali Storytellers are currently in the process of forming their own company as well. Zahra said, “I see a great future for us. Lots of young people are already asking how they can become storytellers themselves.” Many people are also donating to their cause via their website.

The Future of Poetry in Somalia

Many young Somali Storytellers are currently making their debut as filmmakers. They have recently screened a digital story collection called “Me and My Somalia,” a series highlighting the innovation, resilience, and challenges that Somali communities face. In their ideal future, digital storytelling will be widely available, Somali culture will be accurately portrayed and the media will be crucial in fostering constructive community transformation.

– Taylor Naquin

Taylor is based in Gilbert, AZ, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Parish Development Model: Uganda’s Solution to Poverty

The Parish Development ModelThe Parish Development Model (PDM) is a strategy introduced by the Ugandan government in 2022 to promote wealth creation and improve service delivery at the household level. The PDM focuses on communities at the parish level, the smallest administrative unit of the government and the one closest to communities. This proximity ensures that goods, services and benefits from the PDM directly impact local communities.

The government aims to prioritize key commodities like coffee, tea and oils to create wealth-generation opportunities within PDM areas. The program operates through seven key pillars: production, processing and marketing, infrastructure and economic services, financial inclusion, social services and community data.

While the PDM aspires to reduce poverty and improve household incomes and quality of life, it is not Uganda’s first poverty reduction initiative. Many previous programs have failed, with some funds reportedly embezzled, as acknowledged by the President of Uganda. According to the World Bank, four out of 10 Ugandans currently live in poverty. The PDM is seen as a critical, last-ditch effort to reverse this trend and solve poverty within the country.

Objectives of the Parish Development Model

The primary goal of the PDM is to transition 39% of Uganda’s population or 16 million households, from subsistence farming to commercial farming, enabling them to participate in the money economy. The PDM also aims to improve service delivery efficiency at the parish level, offering hope to low-infrastructure communities. The government envisions the program as a key economic solution to alleviate poverty across various regions, setting a five-year timeline to achieve its objectives that started in 2022.

The World Bank predicted Uganda’s economic growth to reach 6.2% in 2025, up from 5.3% in 2023. During Uganda’s 62nd Independence Day celebrations, the President announced that 67% of the population is already engaged in the money economy. If implemented successfully, the PDM could increase this figure significantly. This initiative is also a critical component of Uganda’s Vision 2040, which aims to transform the country from a predominantly peasant-based economy to a modern and prosperous one.

Implementation of the Parish Development Model

The government first identified the right households through community research and vetting to implement the PDM and ensure that the most vulnerable communities benefited. It assessed key factors such as income, education, agriculture and savings to determine which households still relied on a subsistence economy.

The next step involved creating and funding trusts that would allocate the appropriate funds to the right areas. Enterprise groups were formed, consisting of members eligible under the PDM scheme. Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs) were established to support these groups, with one PDM SACCO designated for each enterprise group.

The PDM SACCOs are managed and controlled by enterprise group members, who make decisions regarding funds, programs and infrastructure plans. Members of the enterprise groups can request loans through the SACCOs, which are specifically aimed at fostering self-employment and supporting business ideas. PDM SACCOs provide loans to households at a 5% interest rate, with repayment terms set by the respective SACCOs.

The first phase of the PDM established 10,585 SACCOs. Further, it disbursed $239 million in loans to numerous households, effectively making the PDM SACCOs function like community banks for enterprise group members.

Challenges

The PDM faces several challenges, primarily due to the vast number of communities it needs to cover and its ambitious goal of transitioning 16 million households into the money economy. However, two key challenges requiring urgent attention include:

  1. Financial Constraints. The PDM adopts a “one size fits all” approach, which has resulted in unequal benefits across regions. Each beneficiary household received close to $270. Similarly, each parish gets $27,000. Nonetheless, regions like Acholi, Karamoja and Busoga, which still heavily rely on a subsistence economy, are so far disproportionately targeted in the disbursement of PDM funds.
  2. Inefficiencies. The average number of households per SACCO is between 75 and 109. However, in regions heavily dependent on subsistence farming, the number ranges from 400 to 600 households per SACCO. This places an overwhelming burden on SACCOs, leading to unequal distribution of funds and challenges in providing adequate oversight. Overburdened SACCOs struggle to monitor loan repayment and assess the progress of households effectively, limiting the program’s overall impact.

Outcome

As of 2024, the PDM has achieved several milestones and benefited numerous households. Out of the 10,585 households registered under the PDM project, 7,950 have actively borrowed and received funds from SACCOs fund. The households have invested in both agricultural and nonagricultural businesses. Notably, 53% of the households that have accessed SACCO funds are women. The PDM initiative offers loans at significantly lower interest rates at 6% compared to 18% charged by commercial banks. This reduced burden allows households to fully implement their business ideas and achieve more excellent financial stability.

The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance also developed an information system to collect and store data from various parishes. This system monitors loans disbursed, tracks loan repayments and oversees the distribution of funds to parishes from the central government. This step is crucial in achieving the PDM’s Pillar 3 objective of financial inclusion.

Conclusion

The PDM represents the Ugandan government’s ambitious and innovative strategy to tackle poverty. Furthermore, it promotes economic inclusion at the grassroots level. By prioritizing key commodities, promoting financial inclusion and providing affordable loans through SACCOs, the PDM has already demonstrated its potential to uplift vulnerable households and communities.

However, the program’s success hinges on addressing critical challenges, including financial constraints and inefficiencies in resource allocation. Tailoring solutions to meet the unique needs of different regions and improving oversight mechanisms will be essential for achieving the PDM’s full potential.

As Uganda moves closer to its Vision 2040 goals, the PDM stands as a cornerstone initiative, promising to transition millions from subsistence to a commercial economy. If implemented effectively and inclusively, it could serve as a model for other nations striving to eradicate poverty and create sustainable economic growth.

– Zacc Katusiime

Zacc is based in Kampala, Uganda and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Neglected Tropical Diseases: Malaria in Cameroon

cameroon malariaAs the 53rd largest country in the world, Cameroon’s 183,000 miles of land mass supports a wide range of landscapes and microclimates. While some regions are extremely hot and dry, others are moist and humid due in part to multiple forests populating the areas. In fact, Cameroon’s Cross-Sanaga Bioko Coastal forests are considered one of the wettest regions on earth. This is due to the forest receiving between 20-30 feet of rainfall annually. While these microclimates support beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems, they also provide habitats for neglected tropical diseases such as malaria. With the country’s population of 29 million all being at risk for contracting this disease, Cameroon’s war against malaria will be extremely critical.

Malaria: A Neglected Tropical Disease in Cameroon

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) such as malaria are just that. Infectious diseases that occur primarily in tropical regions of the world. They are deemed neglected because there is minimal attention to addressing these diseases at both, national and global levels. To make matters worse, NTDs flourish in areas of poverty and where access to health care, sanitation and clean water is lacking.

Cameroon has an abundance of water around it. However, the country has minimal infrastructure in place to effectively convert this water into fresh drinking water. In fact, over half of the population living in rural areas of Cameroon, do not have access to clean drinking water.

Cameroon’s health care system has been severely hampered due to the ongoing internal conflicts. Close to 20% of the medical facilities are no longer operational. And those that are open, are struggling.  Besides the destruction of facilities, there is also a lack of health care workers to assist in Cameroon’s war against malaria.

Add to these issues the plethora of mosquito species present in the country, it is no surprise that malaria is the most prevalent NTD impacting Cameroon. Globally, Cameroon falls within the top 15 countries with a high malaria disease burden. Nationally, more than 6 million cases of malaria occur yearly.

The country reports an annual death rate from malaria to be under 5,000 with a high majority being young children. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) suspects that the number could be well over twice that figure. The data discrepancy is due in part to poor reporting in rural areas.

Fighting Malaria in Cameroon

Although the country still reflects high disease rates, Cameroon’s war against malaria is being fought on multiple fronts. The “No one shall die from malaria” pledge signed by the country’s Ministry of Health shows Cameroon’s determination to fight malaria. The pledge falls in line with WHO’s Global Technical Strategy and Targets for Malaria 2016-2030 guidelines.

Agencies such as the World Bank, Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOP) support Cameroon’s efforts to provide access to clean drinking water to all people.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the International Medical Corps are providing critical health service resources necessary to prevent and treat NTDs such as malaria.

WHO is clarifying prophylaxis treatment options for pregnant women. Cameroon is also implementing a malaria vaccination program for children with provisions from WHO, Gavi-the Vaccine Alliance, and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). The WHO is working closely with Cameroon’s Ministry of Health to outline plans on how to provide targeted responses in high disease-burden areas.

Data collected from the Vector Control to Fight Malaria Project is helping to recognize and understand mosquito patterns and activities. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring preventive tools such as insecticide-treated nets are still effective. This data also helps provide education to the community.

Summary

Being home to five different neglected tropical diseases, fighting malaria in Cameroon matters greatly for the country and its population, especially for young children and pregnant women.

Vaccinating young children has led to a significant decrease in disease and death rates of young children. WHO recognized Cameroon for being the first country to incorporate malaria vaccination into the general schedule for childhood immunization.

Many pregnant women have received insecticide-treated nets. And there is a stronger effort to support moms in receiving prophylaxis medication, and in assisting them with access to care during pregnancy.

Although the country made improvements to water infrastructures, there remains an inequitable gap between urban and rural populations having access to clean water. With almost one-quarter of the country’s population could be living in extreme poverty by 2026, addressing these concerns remains critical, and will be the best way to win Cameroon’s war against malaria.

– Kelly Chalupnik

Kelly is based in Kirkland, WA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Being Poor in Nigeria

Being Poor in NigeriaNigeria is a multiethnic and culturally diverse federation with 36 autonomous states and the Federal Capital Territory. The ruling All Progressives Congress party (APC) partially dominate the political landscape, which controls the executive branch of government and holds a majority of seats in the Senate and House of Representatives in parliament as well as a majority of the states. Nigeria has a sizable population and a thriving economy, making it the largest in the West African sub-region. The oil industry produced a third of GDP, 85% of foreign exchange earnings and 95% of export income. Nigeria’s abundant resource reserves make it a prospective market for foreign businesses looking to create a thriving economy, combat poverty and deliver basic services.

Poverty in Nigeria

Most people would wonder why Nigeria still faces the prospect of poverty even though it is known as the nation with the greatest economy in the West African sub-region. Because its population has few opportunities, poverty is a problem for the government. The World Bank has stated that “Nigerians born in 2020 are only 36% as productive as they could be if they had access to health and education,” and their country has the seventh-lowest human capital index in the world. Many workers emigrate as a result of poor job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities.

In 2023, 87 million Nigerians were living below the poverty level, representing a 38.9% poverty rate. The best-performing regions are compared to upper-middle-income nations, demonstrating the persistence of spatial inequality. Insecurity and violence are pervasive, state capacity is inadequate and service delivery is constrained. Inadequate infrastructure impedes domestic economic integration and limits access to electricity. These difficulties are made more difficult by newly emerging issues like extreme weather events.

What Does It Mean to Be Poor in Nigeria?

Nigeria is facing a wave of violence, including kidnappings, clashes, terrorist attacks, brutal murders, food insecurity, inadequate health care and a disproportionate increase in living costs.

Residents of a refugee camp in Zamfara state in northwest Nigeria said “We are suffering greatly. We have almost nothing to eat and for more than four years we have not been able to dedicate ourselves to agriculture because the bandits have driven us out of our communities. We urgently need the government’s support.”

More than 2.2 million people in Nigeria have experienced displacement.  Many of them are now living in congested, resource-poor camps. In the northeast, continuous battles are also impacting food production and agriculture. Families are afraid to grow outside of military cities. Being poor in Nigeria has led to some families eating cassava husks to survive because food shortages are so bad. As a result of poverty in Nigeria, the Nigerian government introduced the National Multisectoral Action Plan for Food and Nutrition in 2020, a 2021–2025 initiative to address malnutrition and food security. However, this initiative has received enough funding.

More than 30% of Nigeria’s workforce is employed in the agriculture sector, which contributes 24% of the country’s GDP. Yet support for this sector is still below the 10% goal that the African Union established in the 2003 Maputo Declaration. With 32% of children under five suffering from childhood stunting, Nigeria has one of the highest rates in the world.

The Path to Economic Stability and Poverty Reduction

Since May 2023, Nigeria has implemented significant measures aimed at reestablishing macroeconomic stability. There is now a single, better-regulated, and market-reflective official exchange rate as a result of the government’s shift to market-based gasoline pricing and significant FX policy reforms. Nevertheless, this has increased the strain already placed on businesses and people. Although the macroeconomic environment is getting better, further steps are necessary to guarantee long-term deflation and better policy communication. Four main fiscal priorities can lower debt risks and free up funds for pro-poor and development investment. Wage jobs, macro fiscal stability, growth, private sector development and human capital creation are all necessary for long-term poverty reduction.

While higher-paying jobs are unavailable, short- and medium-term initiatives to increase production in household businesses, both farm and non-farm, can offer assistance. Youth and women’s policy measures can also increase the labor market’s capacity to reduce poverty.

The World Bank’s Efforts

To prevent the threat of being poor in Nigeria, the World Bank approved two operations on Wednesday, June 13, 2024: $750 million for the Nigeria Accelerating Resource Mobilization Reforms (ARMOR) Program-for-Results (PforR) and $1.5 billion for the Nigeria Reforms for Economic Stabilization to Enable Transformation (RESET) Development Policy Financing Program (DPF). Nigeria’s pressing attempts to stabilize the economy and increase aid for the poor and most economically vulnerable are immediately supported financially and technically by this $2.25 billion package. It also backs Nigeria’s multi-year, ambitious plan to protect oil income and increase non-oil revenues in order to foster fiscal sustainability and provide enough funding for high-quality public services.

– Abdulhameed Olanrewaju

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

Photo: Flickr