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Cartolandia: Tijuana’s Town Made of Carton

Cartolandia: Tijuana's Town Made of CartonIn the bustling metropolis of Tijuana, Mexico — where high-rise buildings, statued roundabouts and a large soccer stadium mark the skyline — a dirt road leads to a community built from cardboard. Its official name is Nueva Esperanza, which translates to New Hope. However, many locals refer to it as Cartolandia, or the Land of Cardboard. Within the developed city of Tijuana, the neighborhood functions almost independently, with its own homes, school and barbershops built from cardboard and other discarded materials.

Cartolandia’s Story

Cartolandia has been present in Tijuana since the 1950s. Most of these inhabitants were impoverished migrants from the southern parts of Mexico looking for higher wages. By the 1970s, Cartolandia had expanded to 1,000 recorded homes. Tijuana was experiencing a severe flooding crisis and this affected Cartolandia residents. Cartolandia was originally located in what is now Zona Río, a profitable area near the United States (U.S.) border. Under Gov. Milton Castellanos’ Todo por Nuevo Tijuana (Anything for a New Tijuana) project, the army raided and destroyed Cartolandia.  

With Cartolandia destroyed, the government was able to build the giant canal, which is protecting the city from future floods. Zona Rio, a profitable area due to its proximity to the U.S., is an affluent, popular and industrial area filled with theaters, restaurants and medical services serving not only Mexicans but also Americans. Yet, the people who once lived in Cartolandia were left homeless and unprotected. A new Cartolandia was established in Cañon del Padre, Tijuana, next to an Amazon warehouse. 

Amazon and Cartolandia’s Fame

The placement of a billion-dollar company’s warehouse next to a cardboard town experiencing extreme poverty drew strong backlash in 2021. Many viewed the plant and the town’s proximity as a contradiction and a clear depiction of global economic inequality. In response to the criticism, the Amazon plant removed its logo from the front of the building and temporarily closed. 

Cartolandia lacks paved roads, a reliable water supply and basic security. Reports suggest that police may not arrive until the next day after a robbery. The community has no plumbing system and only one school, leaving many basic needs unmet.

Looking Ahead

Residents of Cartolandia argue that Amazon should invest in the town by donating money, saying a billion-dollar company can afford to aid its workers living in extreme poverty. UCSD researcher Teddy Cruz and many in Tijuana also believe the responsibility lies with the government. Many nonprofits from both the U.S. and Mexico have taken action through donations and volunteer work. Notably, UniSocial and Los Niños de la Calle con Wendy have organized events and donated toys to the town’s children during the holiday season.

Cartolandia is a place where people without the economic resources to rent a property build their own homes out of cardboard or other found materials. The town has moved around in Tijuana since its beginnings in the 1950s. It seems like economic challenges still persist and that every time that Cartolandia almost disappears, it remerges in a new place in the city. From this, the answer is not to push away the town, but rather to create economic growth opportunities for the people of Nueva Esperanza.

– Andrea Roji

Andrea is based in San Diego, CA, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Indian Slums: Why People in India Won’t Be Slumming It Anymore

Indian SlumsFrom “Slumdog Millionaire” to “Gully Boy,” Indian slums have been the iconic backdrop of several movies and the root of several inspiring rags-to-riches stories. However, a recent series of slum demolitions in New Delhi has left low-income residents displaced. The action has drawn criticism from United Nations (U.N.) human rights experts, who called it an “aggravated form of human rights violation.”

Three Makes a Pattern

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA), established to promote and construct large-scale affordable housing in Delhi, recently demolished Loni Road in northeast Delhi’s Gokalpuri locality. This marks a pattern, following two earlier demolitions of homes in areas such as Ashok Vihar, Wazirpur and Madrasi Camp. It demolished neighborhoods described as “illegally encroaching on government land,” like the Jailorwala Bagh JJ Cluster in Ashok Vihar on June 16.

Many slum structures were torn down, leaving many low-income wage workers displaced without a home. According to a piece in the Times of India, DDA did not inform the slum-dwellers about the demolitions. Another neighborhood in the DDA demolition list, Batla House, received some relief when residents approached the High Court. However, the public interest litigation filed by MLA Amanatullah Khan was dismissed. The petition argued that some targeted residents were not in the disputed zone.

The DDA initiated these demolition drives following High Court orders to resolve the flooding issues caused by the narrow drains that obstructed water flow during heavy rains.

Criticism and Future

U.N. experts have issued a warning to India to halt demolitions that disproportionately affect people living in poverty. Long-time residents of these areas are now forced to watch their homes being destroyed. According to the U.N. special rapporteur on the right to housing, India is leading the front in illegal home demolitions.

The U.N. experts, in their statement, pointed out that the demolitions are carried out without any investigation into the presence of these “illegal immigrants.” They added that concerns such as “national security” and motivations like the “anti-enforcement campaigns” are used to justify the actions. These “bulldozer drives” affect low-income household minorities and migrants who are not qualified for resettlement and cannot afford housing.

Dharavi, one of Asia’s largest slum clusters, is currently in the process of redevelopment, with its first list of slum households eligible for housing being released. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on June 20 said that the Delhi government is considering studying Dharavi’s model for the redevelopment of 675 slum clusters in the national capital. Gupta asked the residents of Indian slums in Delhi to consider their safety and security when they build their homes near the railway line.

Innovation Amid Crisis

Being one of the fastest urbanizing countries in the world, India is estimated to have a huge growth in population. The U.N. has estimated a whopping 164 million addition to India’s population between 2015 and 2030 in urban areas.

Researchers are exploring ways to improve slum conditions amid India’s rapid urbanization. A scientific trial led by the Wellcome Trust-backed project is trying to solve the heat problem, especially as heat waves intensify every summer in places like Ahmedabad.

Roofs of Indian slums were painted with a reflective white coating to send the sun’s radiation back to the atmosphere. This one-year trial involving 400 households in Ahmedabad was started earlier this year and residents already see a difference in temperature and electricity bills.

Conclusion

Although steps are being taken, urban growth is outpacing the development of adequate housing, sanitation, clean water and waste management in many areas. The demolition drives are displacing poverty-stricken communities, depriving them of their means of livelihood, deepening divisions and violating human rights.

– Sahana Shastry

Sahana is based in Newtown Square, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Wajukuu Art Project in Mukuru, Nairobi

Wajukuu Art ProjectMultidimensional poverty overwhelms the five senses. The smell takes in smoke- and the stench-saturated air. Hearing puts up with never-ending noise pollution. Taste feeds on bits of nutrient-scarce food. Touch is calloused by long working hours. Sight looks at its dilapidated world with agony. However, these senses often come together to reclaim creativity and make sense of their reality through art. The Wajukuu Art Project has pioneered the slum art form of Mukuru, Nairobi, Kenya. Its stunning visual art and commitment to uplifting its community have earned it acclaim locally and globally.

Mukuru’s Living Conditions

The Mukuru slum is situated on a hillside near the Kenyan capital’s major manufacturing industries. Job opportunities, however, are scant, so many subsist by scavenging for saleable items in the dumpsite that pollutes their locality. Most of the slum’s 700,000 residents live in suffocatingly tiny three-square-meter homes, sheltered only by roofs made of cardboard or plastic.

Diseases like malaria and tuberculosis are rampant, yet most medical facilities are priced out of residents’ reach. However, with the community’s involvement, the area has recently witnessed development, with 32 more miles of paved roads and significantly better access to flushing toilets.

The Slum Art Form’s Roots

In 2003, Lawrence “Shabu” Mwangi and a few other art school graduates from the Lumba-Lumba neighborhood of Mukuru formed an art collective. They wanted to avoid the criminal activities that many around them had succumbed to with the lack of fruitful employment opportunities.

Officially registering it in 2007, they named it “Wajukuu” or “grandchildren,” deriving from a Swahili proverb that says that younger generations feel the actions of parents and grandparents. Having borne the brunt of previous generations’ mistakes, they wanted to shape a happier future.

Bringing the Slum’s Art Form to Its Children

Noticing the many curious children intently looking in from the outside daily, they decided to start a Kids’ Club. This became their chance to find authentic self-expression, as also future employability, amid the deprivation that they were growing up with.

On a pleasant June day this year, perched upon large sheets of paper, the Kids’ Club started painting. Sitting beside the toxin-choked Ngong River, they used bright tangerine and vivid cobalt hues to breathe life into their self-portraits. They showed an intimate understanding of the problems that had broken their world and their dreams of transforming it. One child outlined his forearm and wrote “PEACE” in bold letters right next to it. Another depicted a man distributing bags of rice among locals.

So far, Wajukuu’s 27 members have nurtured more than 1,000 children through the Kids’ Club and art therapy. The team also manages a library that teaches close to 30 children daily. Wajukuu’s scholarship program has enabled 15 students to achieve a high school education. Wajukuu’s other initiatives include sustainable, organic farming and the twice-yearly Slum Art Festival, which hosts exhibitions and performances by well-known musicians and dancers.

Recognition for The Wajukuu Art Project

In 2022, Wajukuu was invited to take its distinctive slum art form to the Documenta Fifteen contemporary art exhibition in Kassel, Germany, which saw a footfall of more than 738,000. Indeed, Wajukuu interactive architectural displays were reminiscent of traditional Maasai homes and the construction patterns typical of its Mukuru, with its trembling corrugated metal walls.

Even after Documenta, Wajukuu was part of a minor core team working to promote collectivity and shared resource building across geographies. Furthermore, Wajukuu’s In The Absence exhibition at Nairobi’s African Arts Trust gallery in August 2024 startled visitors into self-reflection about the irresponsible use of technology and true freedom from colonialism.

– Shiveka Bakshi

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

Photo: Pexels

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Slum Art Form: Rap in Dharavi, Mumbai

Slum Art FormsThere are diverse ways in which we, as spectators, characterize poverty. However, it is worth asking how those living in abject poverty themselves view their situations. People in different parts of the world are not just passive recipients of their circumstances and our interventions. They have active ways to cope with, speak up about and change their realities, including art and creativity. In Dharavi, Mumbai, India, the rap culture constitutes a unique kind of slum art form, expressing anger, aspiration and ambition all at once.

Dharavi’s Living Conditions

Dharavi is situated in front of Mumbai’s upscale and prosperous central business district, the Bandra-Kurla Complex. However, its material conditions render it nearly unlivable. The cramped quarters of its estimated 1 million residents line its dim, narrow alleyways, some of the most densely populated in the world. Close to 3,000 people share every single toilet here. The open sewers drain into the heavily polluted Mahim Creek adjacent to the slum. This creates fertile grounds for the rampant spread of contagious diseases.

Rap as Dharavi’s Slum Art Form

Hip-hop and rap music come from the streets or “gullies” – starting from The Bronx in New York City in the ’70s, it is the creation of people whose everyday struggles are not reflected in mainstream art forms. And indeed, far away from the romantic balladry and opulent consumerism of nearby Bollywood lies the heart of Dharavi’s music, its slum art form. Every beat brings catharsis and individual expression to its people.

Dharavi is dotted with many such musicians, from individual acts to crews. Such artists have been around for very long – but they were smaller in number, scattered and lacked access to streaming and production platforms. Rap culture truly took off around 2010, when some artists started releasing music albums independently, thanks to YouTube.

It has also created local employment. The acclaimed group SlumGods, for example, quickly expanded from two to 40-50 core members in four years. It also regularly organizes tours of Dharavi that highlight the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of its people, thus bringing recognition to the community.

The songs, written in peculiar Mumbai slang, potently combine frustration at piercing social realities with hope for a better tomorrow. DIVINE’s 38 million views-strong collaborative track “Mere Gully Mein” (In My Gully) highlights widespread political corruption and hypocrisy. However, it also focuses on Dharavi’s secular attitude and its residents’ generosity and sense of community. Bombay Lokal sings about the “darkness” of deprivation but also the “sunshine” experienced by those who take the risk of “standing beneath the clouds” and fighting for change.

Artists like these two are immensely popular now, performing in metropolitan venues across the country. However, what they still have in common with Dharavi’s smaller up-and-coming acts is a strong attachment to their grassroots identities and willingness to speak up about socioeconomic woes.

Taking the Slum’s Art Form to Its Children

Many nonprofits also encourage skill development and recreation among Dharavi’s children by teaching them the art of rap and breakdance. These safe spaces help them deal with their immediate circumstances and find their voices. Dharavi Rocks is a percussion band operated by the ACORN Foundation, aiming to enhance waste collection and management. Its 20 young members, all drawn from Dharavi, make music out of junk and clutter, earning the appreciation of India’s most well-known production companies. Additionally, the Dharavi Dream Project, established in 2014, offers free after-school hip-hop classes to more than 150 students and has trained more than 1,500 children in total.

– Shiveka Bakshi

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

Photo: Pexels

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An Innovative Solution to the Housing Crisis in Ghana

An Innovative Solution to the Housing Crisis in GhanaGhana, located on West Africa’s Gulf of Guinea and home to approximately 30.8 million people, faces significant challenges with multidimensional poverty and a notable housing crisis. According to a 2020 report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), 45.6% of the population or about 13 million people, experience severe deprivation in various aspects of their lives, including inadequate housing. This index highlights the complex nature of poverty beyond mere income levels, illustrating the broad array of hardships, particularly in housing, that affect the daily lives of millions in Ghana.

The Ongoing Housing Crisis

While Ghana has made strides in addressing its housing crisis, the problem persists. In 2021, the Center for Affordable Housing Finance in Africa reported a 33% decrease in housing deficits, from 2.8 million units in 2010 to 1.8 million. This reduction has been largely driven by a real estate boom and a 72.8% increase in residential construction. However, despite these improvements, many Ghanaians still face inadequate living conditions. In 2020, the United Nations (U.N.) identified that 8.8 million people were living in slums, highlighting the ongoing challenge of ensuring access to safe and sanitary housing for all citizens.

Innovative Solutions by Eric Kwaku Gyimah

Eric Kwaku Gyimah, an innovator from Eastern Ghana and one of 17 siblings, founded IWoodz Creation to address Ghana’s housing crisis. Utilizing discarded shipping containers, Gyimah transforms these structures into stylish and comfortable living spaces. Initially intended to create pet-friendly homes, his project evolved to focus on providing affordable housing solutions for people. He told Al Jazeera, “I settled on repurposing shipping containers, typically discarded after their maritime service life, into chic and comfortable living spaces for people to live in.” Gyimah’s approach not only recycles materials but also offers a creative solution to the pressing need for housing in his community.

Cost Efficiency and Expanding Impact

Eric Kwaku Gyimah is revolutionizing Ghana’s housing market with his innovative approach to building homes. According to the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association, traditional brick-and-mortar homes in the country typically cost between $50,000 and $70,000. In contrast, Gyimah’s container homes are significantly more affordable, with simpler models priced between $7,000 and $10,000 and more elaborate designs up to $35,000. His most expensive model is still $15,000 cheaper than the least expensive traditional home. Beyond creating 52 homes, Gyimah is also adapting shipping containers for offices and other commercial spaces. This initiative not only offers a sustainable solution to Ghana’s housing crisis but also demonstrates how innovative, low-cost housing could significantly impact the economy.

Looking Ahead

Ghana’s ongoing housing crisis necessitates innovative solutions to meet the needs of its population. Eric Kwaku Gyimah’s approach of transforming discarded shipping containers into affordable homes offers a sustainable and economical alternative to traditional housing. This initiative, along with increased efforts in residential construction, can potentially improve living conditions for many Ghanaians. As these ongoing solutions continue to develop, they promise to address the severe housing shortages and provide more secure and adequate housing for the nation’s residents.

– Tess Curran

Tess is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Jaco Swanepoel: A South African Transforming the Slums of India

Jaco SwanepoelIndia has a whopping population of nearly 1.5 billion people and this number is continuously on the rise. This has inevitably led to a large section of the population being underemployed and living in unsustainable financial situations. Nearly one in five people in India live in multidimensional poverty, while hundreds of millions lack adequate nutrition, sanitation, housing and good cooking facilities. However, this grim picture has a bright side as well. According to a global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) study at Oxford, 415 million people have left poverty in India in the last 15 years, which paints a very hopeful picture. Such results have been possible because of a number of philanthropists and social workers and one such person is Jaco Swanepoel, a South African who is passionately fighting poverty in India.

The Mission

For more than a year, Jaco Swanepoel has immersed himself in the vibrant yet challenging landscapes of India, dedicated to uplifting the lives of those grappling with poverty. His journey, marked by relentless effort and a compassionate heart, has touched the lives of thousands, particularly among the slum dwellers and the most marginalized communities.

Swanepoel’s mission is not just about providing immediate relief but also about creating lasting change and empowering local populations to sustain themselves. His work exemplifies the profound impact of humanitarian efforts that transcend international borders.

A Year of Transformative Work

Jaco Swanepoel’s commitment to helping the underprivileged has led him to some of the most deprived areas in India. In the past year, he has provided meals to between 900 and 1,100 children living in garbage dumps and to residents of leprosy colonies. These are places where necessities are scarce and survival is a daily struggle. The sight of children rummaging through heaps of trash for food is a stark reminder of the extreme poverty that exists in these regions.

By offering nutritious meals, Swanepoel not only fills their stomachs but also brings hope and dignity to these young lives. His work in leprosy colonies is equally significant. Though curable, leprosy still carries a severe social stigma in many parts of India. Affected individuals are often ostracized from their communities, leading to a life of isolation and neglect. Swanepoel’s presence and assistance in these colonies help break down these barriers, fostering a sense of inclusion and care.

A Vision for Sustainable Impact

Swanepoel’s mission is far from over. He plans to spend another 9 to 12 months in India, traveling to cities like Varanasi and Delhi, which are hubs of both rich cultural heritage and stark economic disparity. His future endeavors will focus on not just providing immediate aid but also empowering communities through training and education. By equipping people with the tools and knowledge they need to sustain themselves, Swanepoel aims to foster self-sufficiency and resilience.

Education and vocational training are central to his approach. In slum areas, where access to quality education is limited, Swanepoel plans to set up learning centers and workshops. These initiatives will provide children and adults with the skills necessary to improve their socioeconomic status. For instance, teaching basic literacy and numeracy can open up new job opportunities. Similarly, vocational training in areas such as tailoring, carpentry or digital literacy can enable individuals to start their own businesses or find better employment.

The Global Impact of Humanitarian Work

Swanepoel’s work highlights a crucial aspect of humanitarianism: the idea that helping humanity is not restricted by international borders. Poverty, illness and suffering are universal challenges that require a global response. Swanepoel, originally from South Africa, has shown that compassion and solidarity can bridge the distance between continents. His efforts in India have not only benefited local communities but have also inspired people around the world to contribute to global causes.

Furthermore, the ripple effect of Swanepoel’s work extends far beyond the immediate aid he provides. By raising awareness about the issues faced by slum dwellers and impoverished communities, he encourages a broader understanding and response to these challenges. His stories and experiences shared through social media and other platforms can mobilize support from both local and international organizations. Increased awareness often leads to increased funding and resources, which are crucial for sustaining long-term development projects.

Final Remark

As Jaco Swanepoel continues his journey across India, his legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. The communities he touches will not only remember his kindness but also carry forward the knowledge and skills he imparts. By empowering individuals to sustain themselves, he creates a foundation for ongoing improvement and development. His mission is a testament to the power of one person to drive change and inspire others to do the same.

– Sakshi Bhagat

Sakshi os based in Kolkata, West Bengal, India and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Bridging the Job Divide in Urban Slums in India

Urban Slums in IndiaIn the sprawling urban slums of India, where poverty often casts a long shadow over the aspirations of its citizens, a transformative force is emerging – Tech-Enabled Skill Development. In a country grappling with widespread poverty, particularly in its urban slums, initiatives aimed at enhancing technical skills are proving to be a beacon of hope, offering a pathway to break the shackles of unemployment and underemployment.

The Landscape of Urban Poverty in India

Despite its economic progress, India continues to face the formidable challenge of poverty. According to research by economists Arvind Panagariya and Vishal More, a significant portion of the Indian population, almost 26.9%, lives below the national poverty line, with urban areas harboring a substantial share of these impoverished citizens. In this context, urban slums represent pockets of deprivation, where there is limited access to education and employment opportunities, and this perpetuates the cycle of poverty.

The Role of Tech-Enabled Skill Development

Tech-Enabled Skill Development emerges as a pivotal solution to this entrenched problem. Initiatives leveraging technology to impart skills have gained momentum in recent years, providing a glimmer of hope for those residing in urban slums. These programs address the immediate need for employment and equip individuals with the technical expertise required to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) reports a surge in the enrollment of individuals from marginalized communities in tech-oriented courses, indicating a growing interest and recognition of the importance of digital skills.

Addressing the Job Divide With Tech-Enabled Solutions

Tech-Enabled Skill Development is not just a theoretical solution but a practical and tangible way to address the job divide in urban slums. By providing training in digital literacy, coding and other relevant skills, individuals receive the support that helps them meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.

A report by NASSCOM, the Indian IT industry trade association, emphasizes the potential of Tech-Enabled Skill Development to create a skilled workforce ready for the jobs of the future. It states that digital skill development is already a significant part of the business strategy of various startups, multinationals and upcoming businesses. India is focused on providing accessible and relevant training, with technology as the enabler to reduce the job divide and improve the skilled workforce in the nation. 

Present Initiatives: A Ray of Hope

Several organizations and government bodies have undertaken initiatives to bridge the technological gap in urban slums.

  • Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY). Launched by the Government of India, PMKVY aims to enable many Indian youth to take industry-relevant skill training. Tech-enabled courses, ranging from basic computer skills to advanced programming, empower individuals to become digitally literate and competitive in the job market. 
  • Digital Literacy Programs by NGOs. Non-governmental organizations like the Digital Empowerment Foundation and Pratham promote digital literacy in urban slums. These programs teach basic digital skills and focus on specialized training in e-commerce, digital marketing and data entry.

For the past two decades, the Digital Empowerment Foundation has been actively involved in digitally empowering local communities. It achieved this involvement by establishing 1,000 Community Information Resource Centres and a network of 10,000 digital ambassadors across 24 states and 135 districts, focusing on urban, rural, tribal, marginalized and unreached regions.

Conclusion

Tech-Enabled Skill Development appears to be a beacon of hope for those living in the shadows of poverty in India’s urban slums. These initiatives bridge the job divide by equipping individuals with digital skills and laying the foundation for a more inclusive and empowered society. As the digital revolution continues to reshape the global economy, the impact of such programs becomes increasingly significant in ensuring the inclusion of everyone. In the context of urban slums in India, change is happening through the transformative power of technology, bringing about a brighter future for those who need it the most.

– Srishti Arora
Photo: Unsplash

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Slum Dwellers in Seempapuri, Delhi

Slum Dwellers in SeemapuriThe number of slum dwellers in Delhi, India, is significant. Poverty and lack of access to proper housing drive the creation of informal settlements or slums. As of 2022, there are 675 slums in Delhi and one of the major slums in Delhi is Seemapuri. Here is some information about slum dwellers in Seemapuri, Delhi.

Life for Slum Dwellers in Seemapuri

The Seemapuri slums are situated on the northeast Delhi border and lack greenery, resulting in a dusty atmosphere and overcrowded informal shelters/huts. The locals constructed these huts in the 1970s to house refugees from Bangladesh and Bengal, as well as marginalized individuals from various Indian states. Unfortunately, today, this unauthorized slum now consists of dilapidated huts without access to legal water and electricity.

In Seemapuri, many slum dwellers earn their livelihood through activities such as rag picking, rickshaw pulling and small-scale shopkeeping. The daily income of a ragpicker is merely $2 to $3. As a result of low earnings, many ragpickers live below the poverty line. In Delhi, it is common for children from impoverished families to drop out of school due to financial constraints. According to the surveys conducted by the government of Delhi, 9.76% of children between the ages of 6 and 17 are out of school due to several financial and domestic reasons. Although there are several primary and high schools in the area, the parents and children do not prioritize education, resulting in a low literacy rate.

Residents in slum areas do not have access to public toilets, which has resulted in open defecation and the spread of communicable diseases. Unfortunately, rag picking is prevalent among children, who sort through garbage for items such as clothes, tin, paper and cardboard pieces. In India, there are approximately more than 10 million ragpickers and Delhi has a very large number of people who segregate the garbage for their work profession. This practice can lead to respiratory issues, tuberculosis and jaundice. Additionally, residents are forced to work for minimum wages without access to basic amenities.

Chetanalaya: An Organization Working for Seemapuri Slums

For the past decade, the nonprofit organization Chetanalaya has dedicated its efforts to improving the lives of the residents of Seemapuri. Chetanalaya has assisted refugees from Bangladesh and Calcutta in obtaining residency documents in Delhi. There are currently 24,000 refugees and 9,000 asylum seekers residing in the capital under unhygienic conditions. The organization’s volunteers are committed to raising awareness about government policies and the basic rights of impoverished individuals. Additionally, the organization is implementing a cooperative approach to the rag-picking activities of slum dwellers by forming committees and groups to advocate for fair pay and other rights.

Chetanalaya has received numerous awards from the government and other organizations for its tireless efforts. In 2018, it was honored with the Excellent NGO award by the Delhi minorities commission for its work in implementing universal elementary education and providing polio vaccinations in Seemapuri. More than 2,500 children receive educational support from the organization. Additionally, Chetanalaya hosts sports and cultural programs to promote the mental and physical growth of impoverished children.

The organization conducted 30 awareness programs to educate children about their rights and social responsibilities. About 2,500 children attended these programs. The organization also actively rescues children who are victims of labor and exploitation. It has established a child helpline contact number and has successfully reunited 63 missing children with their families.

The organization’s efforts extend to providing affordable housing for those living in slums. It has constructed 67 homes through its affordable housing program. Residents of Seema Puri can obtain low-cost housing by borrowing funds from the organization and repaying in installments.

Looking Ahead

Although faced with challenging social and economic circumstances, slum dwellers in Delhi strive for a better quality of life. Many of them work in low-income professions such as rag-picking and rickshaw pulling but with support from nonprofit organizations like Chetanalaya, these slum dwellers can look to the possibility of a brighter future.

– Gurjot Kaur
Photo: Flickr

How Gentrification Exacerbates Poverty

GentrificationGentrification can be described as the process whereby the character or demographic of a neighborhood is altered, typically through an influx of wealthier, more affluent individuals or businesses. This typically involves some sort of transformation of a location, through altering the infrastructure or amenities of the area. Whilst the development is commonly perceived as a positive activity, there are often disregarded spillover effects on the previous residents of the area, frequently low-income groups. More often than not, gentrification causes the displacement of poorer communities, thus generating wide inequality gaps and exacerbating poverty. 

Some argue that there are positive effects originating from gentrification. For example, as a more affluent demographic begins to infiltrate an area, crime rates tend to decrease, and homeowners can benefit from higher property values. As the increasingly wealthy move to an area, consumption will also typically increase, which benefits local businesses and generates additional job opportunities. Investment increases, due to increased construction of modern homes and large boulevards. Rapid development may occur as a result of increased investment, generating success for any given area, which is typically construed as a net positive for society. Others may argue that this is not the case. 

Gentrification in Developing Nations

Rapid development is highly sought after in any developing country, due to the exponential benefits to be reaped. Investment in capital and infrastructure is a major accelerator to development, typically leading to higher levels of GDP growth. However, the benefits of growth are not reaped equally, and rapid development can often be an opportunity for income and wealth inequality. 

In developing nations, where absolute poverty is already a prevalent issue, high levels of inequality and decreasing social mobility can act as a major barrier to poverty reduction. The displacement caused by gentrification can affect an individual’s access to basic necessities such as healthy food, education and health care. For those living on less than a dollar a day, gaining access to these amenities is more important than ever in poverty reduction efforts. 

Impacts of Gentrification: Mozambique and Brazil

Mozambique is a nation affected by a type of social polarization or rather a rich-poor divide. This is fortified by the dual socio-spatial structure of some of its regions — for example, Maputo, which is sometimes referred to as a segregated city. This originated in the colonial period in the 16th century, when the colonialists and the colonized were segregated, creating a harsh divide between society.

Socio-spatial patterning in divided areas may sometimes mean that amenities of a city are located at the center, typically surrounding more affluent areas and excluding those with low or no income. This results in the creation of densely concentrated areas of poverty. This social stratification increases the divides between different socioeconomic groups. Restricted opportunities and unbalanced wealth, compounded with reduced social mobility, create a cycle of intergenerational poverty.

Brazil is another area that has been impacted by gentrification. A type of area known as a ‘Favela,’ which translates to ‘slum’. This area is often found in the outskirts of Brazilian cities, more prominently in Rio. Favelas are known for their high-density, compact organization, but can sometimes be described as less than liveable, with conditions in these areas sometimes being dysfunctional and destitute. In this scenario, the increasing popularity of locations such as Rio has meant that many have suffered from displacement, being confronted with rent increases and forced evictions to higher-risk locations.

As a result, many previous residents may find themselves relocated to the outskirts of the city, suffering from worse conditions and less access to basic necessities. Once again, this exacerbates poverty for those already on low incomes, creating a cycle of intergenerational inequality. 

Policy as the Solution

Policy is the key to mitigating the negative consequences of gentrification. The main frameworks that could be implemented include managing rent affordability, preventing tenant displacement and strengthening participation from residents in general society. Gentrification can be a net positive when taking place under the correct conditions — that is, while ensuring that society’s most vulnerable are protected. To prevent the creation of wide inequality gaps, policy should aim to ensure economic equality of all residents, thus ensuring that low-income residents do not suffer and ultimately slip into poverty. 

– Hannah Bugeja
Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Food Insecurity in Urban Slums

Food Insecurity in Urban Slums
Within the bustling landscapes of urban centers, where towering skyscrapers stand as symbols of progress, lies a stark reality that often goes unnoticed: the prevalence of food insecurity within urban slums. While cities may represent economic growth and technological advancements, they also encapsulate the struggles of marginalized populations residing in the shadows of affluence. This article aims to shed light on the complex issue of food insecurity in urban slums, exploring the challenges faced by these communities and examining innovative strategies aimed at providing sustenance and hope.

Food Insecurity in Urban Slums

  1. Limited Resources: Urban slums are characterized by densely populated areas with inadequate infrastructure and services. Access to essential resources, including nutritious food, remains a constant challenge for slum dwellers. Many families end up having to allocate a significant portion of their meager income to securing basic sustenance.
  2. High Food Prices: The cost of food within urban areas often surpasses the financial capacity of slum residents. The disparity between income and food prices leaves families with difficult choices, often sacrificing nutritional quality in favor of affordability.
  3. Inadequate Nutritional Intake: Food insecurity extends beyond the lack of quantity; it encompasses the lack of nutritional quality. Many urban slum residents struggle to access a diverse range of fresh and nutritious foods, leading to malnutrition and health issues, particularly among children.
  4. Unstable Livelihoods: Informal and irregular employment is common in urban slums. These unstable livelihoods lead to uncertain income streams, making it difficult to consistently secure food for families, further exacerbating food insecurity.

Innovative Strategies for Addressing Food Insecurity

  1. Urban Agriculture: Initiatives promoting urban agriculture empower slum communities to cultivate their own food. Rooftop gardens, community plots and vertical farming offer solutions for growing fresh produce within limited urban spaces, increasing food access and dietary diversity.
  2. Mobile Markets and Food Vans: Mobile markets and food vans can act as lifelines, bringing affordable and nutritious food directly to urban slums. These mobile units eliminate the need for residents to travel long distances, bridging the gap between food sources and consumers.
  3. Community Kitchens: Establishing communal kitchens or community-based food cooperatives can enable cost-effective bulk purchasing of ingredients and shared cooking facilities. This approach ensures that even those without cooking facilities can access cooked meals.
  4. Food Banks and Surplus Redistribution: Collaborations with food banks and surplus food redistribution programs redirect excess food from businesses and markets to vulnerable urban slum populations. This not only reduces food waste but also addresses food insecurity.
  5. Nutrition Education: Providing nutrition education workshops equips slum residents with essential knowledge on making nutritious choices with limited resources. Education empowers individuals to maximize the impact of the available food on their health.
  6. Social Safety Nets: Government-funded social safety net programs, such as conditional cash transfers or food vouchers, offer financial assistance to slum dwellers. These programs bridge the economic gap, allowing families to afford essential food items.

Conclusion

The specter of food insecurity looms large within urban slums, casting a shadow over the aspirations and dreams of countless individuals and families. Yet, innovative strategies can dispel the darkness. Urban agriculture, mobile markets, community kitchens, surplus redistribution, nutrition education and social safety nets offer rays of hope to those living in the shadows.

Food security is not only a basic human right but a fundamental building block for healthy lives and thriving communities. Collaborative efforts between local governments, non-profit organizations, businesses and empowered communities are crucial in implementing and sustaining these strategies. By collectively working towards addressing food insecurity, we can illuminate the path to a future where urban slum residents can step out of the shadows and into a life filled with sustenance, dignity and opportunity.

– Mihir Naik
Photo: Flickr