Archive for category: Technology

Information and stories about technology news.

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Global Engineering Is Helping Impoverished Communities

Global Engineering Is Helping Impoverished CommunitiesThe field of Global Engineering is helping impoverished communities and making significant strides in addressing global poverty at two major U.S. research institutions. In May 2024, the Mortenson Center in Global Engineering and Resilience (MCGER) at the University of Colorado Boulder partnered with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to visit Armenia in West Asia. The goal of the visit was to improve water management and resources in impoverished Armenian communities.

Additionally, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) recently established the K. Lisa Yang Global Engineering and Research (GEAR) Center, thanks to a $28 million donation from philanthropist Lisa Yang. The GEAR Center focuses on applying engineering research to benefit resource-strained communities.

What Is Global Engineering?

Research Universities like the University of Colorado Boulder believe that global engineering is the application of engineering tools and technology to provide equitable access to safe water, sanitation, energy, food, shelter and infrastructure. The university’s ongoing research projects have included delivering cookstoves and water filters to households in Rwanda to prevent disease and providing research analysis on the safety of reconstructed shelters for hurricane disaster relief in the Philippines and Puerto Rico.

Furthermore, in May 2024, the university visited Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia, to communicate and train with the Government of Armenia, local communities, students and faculty at Yerevan University on modern water management. University of Colorado Boulder also provided a program for Armenian students to understand water resource management, simulation modeling and data analytics.

Engineering is helping address the fact that billions of people worldwide face threats to their health due to poverty. At MIT’s new GEAR Center, a team of MIT researchers and engineers plan to utilize new technologies and science to face real-world global health issues. The team has already visited the Middle East and North Africa, providing water-saving and solar-powered irrigation solutions through exploratory field research.

The Future of Global Engineering?

The global engineering program at the University of Colorado wants to continue to evolve engineering education to adapt to the changing world. The program wants to train future engineers not just in science and technology but also in global development and equity. An interdisciplinary approach to the field of engineering means knowing how engineers can help global poverty reduction and improve the livelihood of people on a global scale.

At MIT, global engineering is helping a new generation of engineers apply research and design strategies to help impoverished communities and meet global challenges. “These talented young students, postdocs and staff have the potential to reach across disciplines — and across the globe — to truly transform the impact engineering can have in the future,” said Dean of Engineering Anantha Chandrakasan.

– Jacob Buckner

Jacob is based in Raleigh, NC, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Cyber Technology Reduces Poverty in the Dominican Republic

.Poverty in the Dominican RepublicArtificial Intelligence (AI) could help alleviate global poverty. Parts of Africa and Latin America are already using cyber technology to boost agriculture and their economy. Agriculture remains one of the key industries across the Caribbean. Around one-fifth of the Dominican Republic’s workers work in agriculture and the country exports valuable goods, including sugar, bananas, cocoa and rice. Demands for wheat have also accelerated, especially from Haiti, following the uprising crisis. This has paved the way to assist in the reduction of poverty in the Dominican Republic.

About Extreme Poverty in the Dominican Republic

Rates of extreme poverty fell by 10% between 2015 and 2019 but jumped again when the pandemic arrived in 2020. Greater tourism and increased trade with other nations mean that, both internally and externally, poverty in the Dominican Republic has been reduced. The country now has more surplus money to invest in emerging technologies.

AI could come in handy in this area. In Africa, for instance, drones are already being used to detect and prevent poachers. They deliver medical aid and support the conservation of wildlife. Satellites are also being used to improve agricultural yields by understanding shortcomings and adapting plans for farmers to fill these gaps.

Lessons To Be Learned

Since many farmers need more training in advanced agricultural practices, machine learning will eventually come in handy. Cyber technology not only helps to quickly calculate complicated equations but also improves the ease of communication between developing and developed countries. With AI speeding up these processes, less money goes into agricultural work and more funding enters the economy.

The barrier comes in the provision and funding of these technologies. The Dominican Republic has proven itself willing to engage with the next generation of tech by using AI. However, the costs will be high and require greater communication and support from nations with high Human Development Index (HDI) ratings. Embracing e-learning platforms will allow this.

Networking

AI is already being used to boost customer relationships and experiences in the banking sector under the “know your customer” initiative. This process tailors support to the specific needs of customers to provide them with the most relevant support possible. Eight “multiple banks” currently employ AI-generated systems.

A developing ecosystem across the Caribbean is also currently sharing data between multiple economies to overcome generic technological and scientific obstacles. None of this could have been achieved without the benefits of machine learning. With agriculture being such a profitable sector, a growth in exports would create a flourishing economy for the country. Increased connections with other nations would match an accelerated connection to local people.

The Weather Creates Significant Obstacles

Machine learning also warns of volatile weather conditions to help farmers be best informed about how to overcome climate issues. Tackling natural disasters has already been proven a government priority with the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility. The facility provides insurance for natural disasters such as earthquakes, cyclones and excessive rainfalls.

Pangu-Weather, the AI model developed by Huawei Cloud in 2023, offers weather forecasts and predictions for the paths of tropical cyclones. This would come in handy in the Dominican Republic, where unpredictable weather conditions often undermine the hard work of agriculturalists. Alternatively, Google has offered a 10-day forecast called GraphCast, which it could roll out to the international market for greater availability.

The way forward is using drones to gather sensor data. This data analyzes natural nutrient levels to understand how quickly crops will grow compared to how quickly they need to grow. Drones can also deliver 3D mapping, warnings of irrigation leaks and a consistent tracker of livestock health.

Final Remark

Impoverished nations have some lessons to learn from Latin America. The Dominican Republic is in control of its cyber technology. It has the highest regional rating on the National Cyber Security Index and a defense system against cyber attacks. This development is the first step to a bright future, where progress has already been made in tackling poverty through cyber technology and can continue to expand the prosperous agricultural sector across the region.

– Lewis Eyre

Lewis is based in Bournemouth, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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The Role of AI in Reducing Poverty

Role of AI in Reducing PovertyThe fight against global poverty is breaking new ground with the help of artificial intelligence. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an amoral tool that is equally capable of both harm and help. However, there are many noteworthy ways in which it contributes to global poverty reduction. The emerging tool has already helped improve access to health care and education. Additionally, it has assisted in disaster response mitigation, particularly in regions where access is otherwise limited. For example, let’s consider the role of AI in reducing poverty in Brazil, Kenya and Bangladesh.

Health Care in Brazil

AI-based diagnostic systems can provide timely and remote access to health care> It can reduce the burden of preventable disease and improve overall health outcomes. These systems can bridge the gap between people and essential resources in remote or marginalized places.

In Brazil, AI is currently being used to improve health care access. One example is ViBe Saúde, a Brazilian telemedicine startup that uses AI algorithms to facilitate consultations between medical professionals and patients. The initiative has proven especially beneficial in rural regions where access to health care services is limited.

Education in Kenya

AI-powered educational systems can adapt to offer personalized learning experiences, which is particularly helpful in regions with limited educational resources. In Kenya, Bridge International Academies, a company that provides for-profit education, is using AI-powered digital learning platforms to help disadvantaged populations break the cycle of poverty.

Remarkably, since 2015, Bridge students who have sat for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exam have consistently scored above the national average. Furthermore, its alumni are now in top universities in Kenya and the United States (U.S.).

Disaster Response in Bangladesh

Climate AI’s predictive analysis and relief coordination capacities can help mitigate the impact in disaster-prone regions and reduce their socioeconomic impact. Bangladesh, for instance, is highly susceptible to cyclones, floods and landslides, which can devastatingly impact vulnerable populations. AI-powered chatbots provide real-time information and enable timely evacuation and response efforts, further aiding in disaster management.

The Bangladesh government has used AI to enhance preparedness and response efforts. For example, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department uses AI algorithms for disaster risk management (DRM) to analyze weather data and issue early flood and cyclone warnings. “DRM is constantly upgraded through machine learning and artificial intelligence,” writes Abdullah Shibli, a reporter at The Daily Star.

Unemployment (And Re-Employment) in Bangladesh

While celebrating the accomplishments of the role of AI in reducing global poverty, it is also crucial to acknowledge its potential to exacerbate it. An epitomic example of this is AI’s capacity to automate the manufacturing sector. In Bangladesh, garment manufacturing is a significant source of employment and economic growth. As with many cases of hyper-industrialization, automation would cause underemployment in Bangladesh.

However, rather than exclusively displacing workers, AI also has the capacity to create more job opportunities. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2025, “approximately 85 million employees are anticipated to lose their jobs, while 97 million new roles may emerge.” This example illustrates the nuanced truth underlying robotics: AI’s capacity to promote harm or help is dependent on how we choose to use it. There is no reason to fear AI, as the future of its potential is a matter of our responsibility.

– Sheridan Smith

Sheridan is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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How Paper Technology is Supporting Postural Care in Kenya

How Paper Technology is Supporting Postural Care in KenyaIn Kenya, the joint partnership between APT for Social Development (APT4SD) and The Potters House has been instrumental in providing bespoke postural support devices for people with disabilities. APT4SD secured a grant of £14,232.00 from the Wales and Africa Grant Scheme in 2022-23 to carry out this work. In addition to its activities in Kenya, the charity also conducts workshops in Wales to teach Appropriate Paper Technology (APT) skills for mental health and emotional wellbeing. The training in Kenya focuses on enabling nurses to identify children needing postural care and training artisans to create customized furniture, which also helps fund the project by selling household items.

Understanding Appropriate Paper Technology (APT)

Appropriate Paper Technology (APT) offers an affordable solution by recycling materials like cardboard, paper and nylon tights into sturdy, lightweight support devices. At the Potters House CBO workshop, the construction process involves layering thick cardboard with a flour and water mixture and reinforcing it with used nylon tights. These support devices are then covered with old newspapers or paper bags and decorated. This method not only provides essential support to children in need but also facilitates financial support for their families through employment in device production.

Impact and Outreach of the Project

The project’s impact is significant, with 145 support devices created and 721 children and adults benefiting from the services. The project has established new APT workshops and trained 17 Kenyan therapists in postural care. These ongoing initiatives demonstrate the project’s commitment to providing immediate aid and promoting sustainable development through education and skill-building.

NHS Education for Scotland highlights the importance of postural care in preventing complications in various body parts such as hips, knees, spine and pelvis. Without appropriate care, individuals can suffer from severe physical deformities and health issues, impacting their ability to perform daily functions and reducing their quality of life.

Poverty Alleviation

The importance of postural care in Kenya extends beyond individual health to address broader socioeconomic challenges. According to UNICEF’s 2022 report, more than half of Kenyans face multidimensional poverty, with even higher rates among children with cerebral palsy. The efforts of APT4SD and The Potters House play a vital role in supporting impoverished families, illustrating the critical link between health care interventions and poverty alleviation.

Looking Ahead

The innovative approach of Appropriate Paper Technology (APT) promises to expand its impact, offering sustainable postural support and livelihood opportunities across Kenya. Continued collaboration between local and international partners could be crucial to enhance the scope and reach of these empowering projects. Moreover, by addressing the intertwined challenges of health and poverty, APT4SD and The Potters House are paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive future for individuals with disabilities.

– Rachael Denton-Snape

Rachael is based in High Wycombe, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Portable Ultrasound Machines Are Changing Health Care in Kenya

Portable Ultrasound MachinesPortable ultrasound machines in Kenya are improving health care in Kenya, which has long proven to be a challenge for remote areas of the country. Low-income communities are hit especially hard as expecting women must commute to the mainland or more urban areas to receive treatment. This is not always possible for those who cannot afford these travel costs. Thus, many women only return to specialists to deliver their babies, risking health complications since they do not receive ultrasounds or check-ups throughout their pregnancy.

In emergencies, it is also not realistic for women in rural communities to travel several hours to care centers that have the equipment necessary to have them. As a result of the inaccessible costs of Kenya’s maternal health care system, only about 50% of deliveries in Kenya occur in actual medical facilities, which can prove dangerous for mothers and babies.

Portable Ultrasound Technology

Created by the medical equipment company Philips, the Lumify Probe is a portable ultrasound machine that has revolutionized health care in Kenya for pregnant women. Implementation programs begin with training for midwives on how to use the Lumify Probe. Health care centers in remote villages of Kenya then received one of the devices, increasing the reach and accessibility of ultrasound and obstetrics in Kenya.

The device itself has many important applications. Most importantly, it can give midwives and mothers information on the viability of the pregnancy, show the number of fetuses and show the position of the fetus. With this information, midwives can better advise their patients and spot potential complications like breech positions or multiple pregnancies earlier.

Incorporating Artificial Intelligence

With the rise in artificial intelligence (AI) in recent years, efforts have been made to use the new technology for ultrasounds. AI could help simplify the process of obtaining obstetric measures and provide information to midwives and mothers earlier in the pregnancy. A pilot program in Kenya has already shown promise and there is hope of expanding the initiative to more countries in Africa.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has funded these efforts for several years now, even increasing a grant for Philips to $60 million for its research into AI-powered ultrasound technology.

The Impact of Portable Ultrasound Machines

Portable ultrasound machines will increase access to obstetric care in Kenya and eventually other countries as programs to implement the devices expand. Midwives can travel to their patients’ homes and conduct community visits to reach even more people. Moreover, the new machines are more cost-effective for low-income families who can’t afford to travel to centers in larger cities or the mainland.

Whereas ultrasounds at specialist facilities may cost around Ksh 1,000 or 1,500, portable ones are only around Ksh 500 (this is $10 to $15 versus just $5). While the World Health Organization (WHO) advises that mothers receive “at least one obstetric screen, done before 24 weeks of gestation,” many mothers could not do so before these pilot programs for portable ultrasound machines.

However, since their introduction, more than 2,500 mothers have been screened in Kenya and the number is only increasing. Ultimately, portable ultrasound machines like the Philips Lumify Probe will save countless lives as mothers become more informed about the conditions of their pregnancies and maternal health care in Kenya improves.

– Hannah Hipólito

Hannah is based in Tampa, FL, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Princeton’s Breakthrough Solar-Powered Water Purification Gel

Princeton's Breakthrough Solar-Powered Water Purification GelAccording to the World Bank, about two billion people around the world lack access to safely managed drinking water services. Among them, 771 million people cannot access even basic drinking water services. Researchers at Princeton University have developed a solar-powered gel that cleans water, potentially addressing the global clean water crisis. This gel marks an advancement in technology initially developed in 2021. Xiaohui Xu, a post-doctoral fellow at Princeton, led the development in his lab. Xu collaborated with Nehemie Guillimaitre, a graduate student in chemical and biological engineering, to author the initial study.

New Water Purification Technology

The solar-powered gel, known as a hydrogel, features a sponge-like structure that absorbs dirty water and filters out harmful contaminants such as bacteria, oils, salts and microplastics. This hydrogel comprises polymers—long chains of molecules that repel pollutants from its surface. Structurally, the hydrogel’s internal threadlike molecules mimic the interconnected fibers of a loofah fruit, a common kitchen scrubbing sponge. It efficiently absorbs, filters and releases water, cleaning a gallon in less than 10 minutes.

Testing and Efficacy of the Gel

While previous water purification devices required significant energy, this solar-powered gel stands out as low-cost, accessible and efficient, relying solely on sunshine for power. The warmer the temperature, the faster the gel releases water, due to the weakening grip of the gel’s molecules. At temperatures of 33 degrees Celsius or higher, the gel can release more than 70% of the absorbed water in under 10 minutes. This sponge-like technology’s fibrous structure enables its remarkable filtration and absorption speed.

Xu and her research team tested the gel’s effectiveness by placing it in water contaminated with E. coli, a bacteria that can cause life-threatening illnesses. Upon removal from the tainted water, the solar-powered gel successfully repelled all bacteria.

Ongoing Development and Broader Implications

Researchers believe the low-cost and easy-to-use solar absorber gel could be implemented globally to aid poverty-stricken areas where access to clean water is unreliable. Dirty water causes over 1.5 million deaths annually. The Princeton team is continuing to develop household prototypes and believes the gel could also be beneficial in emergency situations.

The gel’s capacity to shrink in warmth and expand in cool temperatures could enhance robotics by enabling machines to move and conform in various ways. Additionally, this gel could dehydrate liquids like milk or orange juice, simplifying shipping processes and it could extract water from blood for simpler storage.

Researchers aim to develop and modify the design of the solar-powered gel, finding new ways to enhance the technology. “Through our work, we have been able to show that fundamental research may have a significant impact on society,” Guillomaitre stated. “Ideally, this technology could one day be used by anyone concerned about their water quality, regardless of where they live.”

Looking Forward

The development of solar-powered gel technology at Princeton University holds transformative potential for global water purification efforts. As this innovation progresses toward wider adoption, it promises to significantly improve access to clean water in underserved communities worldwide. The continued refinement and application of this technology could herald a new era of sustainability and health.

– Jacob Buckner

Jacob is based in Raleigh, NC, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Renewable Energy in Sudan

Renewable Energy in SudanSudan is a developing nation in Northeast Africa with a population of around 47 million people. The World Bank report from 2023 shows 15.3% of the population living under the international poverty rate ($2.15), 49.7% living under the lower middle-income poverty rate ($3.65) and 86.2% living under the upper middle-income rate ($6.85). While these figures make for grim reading, there are many positives that things are and could continue to get better soon for people due to the further incorporation of renewable energy in Sudan. Renewable energy resources are already improving people’s lives by helping to bring clean water and solar-powered energy to towns and villages.

Providing Clean Water

Renewable energy is energy from natural resources which are “replenished at a higher rate than consumed” such as wind, solar and geothermal. These types of resources are also currently playing a major role in helping to improve people’s lives in Sudan and will play an even bigger role in the future. 

Through improved technology and investment, renewable energy in Sudan is improving people’s lives and lifting many out of poverty. UNICEF highlighted how in 2023, funding built a solar-powered mini water yard for a small, remote village Gelhanty in eastern Sudan giving communities a safe water source. The water source brought reliable and clean water to around 1,500 people, meaning that women and children in this area no longer had to trek long distances to collect water from unsafe streams.   

The new source allows villages water for domestic use such as drinking, cleaning and agricultural purposes. The water yard also prevents women and children from carrying the burden of long trips for unclean water that can cause water-borne diseases. 

Solar Panel System for a Hospital

Another success story of renewable energy in Sudan comes from a UNFPA program that piloted a renewable energy program in Abu Jebiha. Partnering with global aid, the program installed a solar panel system at Abu Jebiha Hospital. 

Before the installation of the solar panels, the hospitals’ electricity would often be cut out, meaning people could not get the treatment they needed, including women in the maternal ward, which decreased the chances of babies surviving. Now, however, this renewable-powered electricity is seeing great results. Hospital facilities now operate 24/7 including in the maternity ward, operation rooms, blood bank refrigerators, administration offices, incubators and medicine storage. 

Previously due to the lack of electricity, the hospital could not operate at capacity as the power would only last for two to three hours a day and patients often had to provide their power source. This successful solar power story means the project is expanding to cover more health facilities. 

The Future

These examples show the great work that aid agencies are doing in Sudan to bring essential resources such as water and health care to the communities in the country. However, despite all the successful work, there is a lot more to do and this is just the start of Sudan’s renewable energy program. 

Sudan is a country with plenty of renewable and natural energy resources. According to AFSIC, “Sudan has abundant resources for renewable energy, including solar, wind and hydro power. The country has one of the highest solar radiation rates in the world, with the potential to generate up to 15 GW of solar energy.” For reference, 1 GW of energy, equivalent to 1 billion watts, is enough to power up to 750,000 homes. 

Sudan has already made major progress towards its renewable energy program, with many large-scale projects to bring a better life for communities already under way. One example of this is government’s plans for the building of a 100 MW solar panel farm in the city of Dongola and a 50 MW wind farm in the Red Sea state, according to AFSIC. The Sudanese government also aims to achieve a total of 5 GW of renewable energy by 2030. 

Sudan’s blessing of renewable energy is good news for a country that is still struggling with poverty, however, for things to further improve more investment is needed to put new infrastructure in place so that success stories such as clean water yard and solar power supplying a hospital with reliable electricity becomes more commonplace and widespread throughout the country. 

– Lachlan Wellington

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Poverty and Mobile Health Technologies in Djibouti

Poverty and Mobile Health Technologies in Djibouti The World Health Organization (WHO) introduced the concept of mobile health (mHealth) to enhance health care systems delivery globally. mHealth utilizes information and communication technology to provide health care services. In Djibouti, where vast arid landscapes and limited clinical facilities pose significant challenges, mHealth spearheads transformative health care solutions. The country, struggling with infectious diseases and inadequate health care infrastructure, increasingly relies on mobile apps, telemedicine platforms and SMS-based interventions. By harnessing the potential of mHealth, Djibouti is making significant strides in improving health care delivery and advancing toward universal health care coverage.

Enhancing Access to Health Care Services

Many barriers to health access persist in Djibouti, exacerbated by poverty and geographical disparities. The World Bank reports that about 58% of Djibouti’s population lives below the poverty line, struggling to afford basic medical care. Mobile health technologies, however, are providing a vital bridge. Telemedicine platforms such as BaboCare and TelmedDjib enable remote consultations with health providers, effectively connecting patients with medical professionals, especially in rural areas where health care facilities are scarce. These platforms have reported a success rate of more than 70% in consultations conducted via telemedicine.

Empowering through Health Education

Health education is crucial for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Traditional methods of disseminating health information face significant challenges in Djibouti, where illiteracy rates are about 50%, according to the 2022 UNICEF report. Mobile health technologies offer a scalable and accessible solution to these challenges. Apps like AfyaDjib and Sehaty provide targeted health messages and educational content on topics from maternal and child health to infectious disease prevention. These apps have garnered widespread attention and have reportedly increased health literacy among users by 80%.

Disease Prevention Strategies

Disease prevention emerges as a crucial solution to reduce the burden of illness, especially in resource-limited settings like Djibouti. This country, grappling with a high prevalence of communicable diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis, struggles partly due to inadequate health care infrastructure. An effective and cost-efficient prevention strategy in Djibouti includes SMS-based interventions. For instance, the United to Beat Malaria campaign disseminates information on preventive measures like using bed nets and indoor residual spraying. According to the organization, this program has protected more than 40 million people from malaria in 61 countries and raised more than $75 million to combat the disease.

Challenges and Future Directions

While mobile health technologies hold great promise, challenges persist in their broad use and sustainability. These services often remain inaccessible to marginalized populations, particularly due to poor internet connectivity in rural areas. Ensuring that mHealth interventions respect cultural norms and include linguistic diversity is equally important. Therefore, future collaborations among government entities, nonprofit organizations and private sector stakeholders are crucial. These partnerships could address these challenges and fully realize the potential of mHealth technologies to improve health care delivery in Djibouti.

Looking Ahead

Djibouti’s commitment to expanding mobile health technologies promises to further revolutionize its health care landscape. As partnerships between governmental bodies, NGOs and private sectors strengthen, these collaborative efforts are set to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of health services across the nation. With continuous innovation and strategic implementation, mHealth has the potential to significantly reduce health disparities and lead Djibouti toward achieving sustainable universal health care coverage.

– Honorine Lanka Perera

Honorine is based in Highland, NY, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Helping Schoolchildren in Uganda Using Simple Technology

Schoolchildren in UgandaIn 2014, South Korean Park Joong-Ryeol created a small company in Uganda. He aimed to alleviate the problems that schoolchildren in Uganda face while traveling for water. This company is Jerrybag. It makes lightweight but sturdy bags to make transporting water more accessible and safer. Since its inception, the company has donated more than 18,000 Jerrycan bags to 30 schools in Africa.

Water Problems in Uganda

In Uganda, water is a scarce resource. In rural areas, it is difficult for citizens to get any water. Some estimates state that one in four people lack access to clean water. Women and children usually travel long distances to collect water for themselves and their families to survive. On average, they trek six kilometers and spend two hours each day getting water.

This grueling task deprives children of education, as they must prioritize fetching water over schooling and poses serious health risks. Schoolchildren in Uganda burdened with transporting heavy 10-kilogram jerrycans of water unaided suffer from spinal pain, with a study revealing that 62% of them experience such discomfort.

Moreover, the lack of paved sidewalks on rural roads exacerbates the dangers faced by these children. Forced to walk alongside cars, they are constantly at risk, with statistics highlighting the alarming rate of fatalities due to road accidents. In Uganda, for instance, an average of 12 people per day lost their lives in car accidents in 2022, compared to five per day in Britain during the same period. The unsafe conditions of these roads further compound the challenges encountered by children in their daily lives.

Jerrycan Bags

The Jerrycan bag is a waterproof backpack that fits a Jerrycan. It eases the burden for kids while they are transporting water. The bag features a reflective “SLOW DOWN” sign to notify drivers to combat the dangerous roads. Jerrybag adopts a holistic approach by empowering local women in Kampala through employment opportunities. By hiring these women to produce the bags, the company not only improves the lives of children but also contributes to economic empowerment in the community.

In recognition of its impactful work, Jerrybag received the prestigious Seoul Design Award in 2023. The award is given to projects that create sustainable solutions to everyday problems, underscoring the significance of Jerrybag’s work. Funding its operations in Uganda through its South Korea website, Jerrybag sustains its mission by selling merchandise and allocating a portion of the proceeds to its studio in Uganda. As the company’s popularity grows, it can scale up production to provide more bags for children in need. Jerrybag currently produces more than 400 bags monthly, exemplifying its commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of children and communities in Uganda.

Jerrybag’s impact extends beyond providing water-carrying solutions in Uganda; the company has also played a significant role in supporting the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Demonstrating its commitment to community welfare, Jerrybag generously donated 4,870 hygiene kits and 14,160 masks, aiding the country’s efforts to combat the spread of the virus. Furthermore, Jerrybag engages in initiatives to empower disadvantaged children through design workshops, fostering creativity and skill development.

Final Remark

Jerrybag is a simple but creative solution to the struggle schoolchildren in Uganda face. The company’s success shows how basic changes like a new backpack can make a difference.

– Richard Sartor

Richard is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Comic Republic: A New Comic Book Landscape

Comic RepublicBatman, Wonder Woman and Spider-Man have inspired children and adults alike for decades, grossing billions of dollars in film, TV, video games and comic book sales. Often compared to modern-day myths, these heroes embody enduring values that have transcended centuries. Despite their textual and metatextual differences, these iconic characters all share one common denominator: their origins in the United States of America (USA).

The USA is considered the birthplace of modern comic books. Although many influential comics originate from other nations, Europe and America dominate the comic book and graphic novel landscape. However, some creators and publishers are striving to diversify this art form by incorporating African myths, sensibilities and art styles.

Comic Republic: Pioneering African Comics

Comic Republic, a Nigerian comic book publisher and multimedia company, has been creating characters that resonate globally for seven years. The company has produced dozens of characters featured in hundreds of stories and has collaborated with major corporations like BBC, Samsung and Wakanow to create characters and marketing materials. Committed to reshaping global perceptions of Africa through art and culture, Comic Republic offers all its books for free download on its website. Additionally, Comic Republic is collaborating with Emagine Content and JackieBoy Entertainment to produce a film based on their character Ireti. Announced in 2021, the project has not yet progressed, but future developments are still possible.

YouNeek: Building an African Comic Universe

YouNeek is a rising African comic studio dedicated to transforming African myths and culture into formats that appeal globally, such as comics and animation. Unlike other studios that create various worlds for their characters, YouNeek focuses on developing a shared universe of comic book superheroes, aiming for cross-medium expansion akin to Marvel Studios’ MCU. Roye Okupe, the owner and creative director of YouNeek, leads these efforts. Known for his ambition to build a multimedia empire, Roye has been making significant strides toward this goal. “Malika,” one of YouNeek’s projects, features a 15-minute animated pilot available on YouTube. In 2020, Roye secured a ten-book deal with Dark Horse Comics, a major player in the international independent comic book market and has been actively working on this commitment.

Looking Ahead

Comic Republic and YouNeek exemplify the indomitable spirit long associated with the comic book industry. Icons like Joe Shuster, Jerry Siegel, Bill Finger, Stan Lee, R. Crumb and Will Eisner have harnessed the power of comics to spark the imaginations of millions across all ages. Historically dominated by Western nations, the comic book industry is witnessing a transformative contribution from artists around the world, demonstrating that diverse nations and cultures have much to offer through the beloved artistic medium.

– Charlie McFadden

Charlie is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash