Posts

, ,

Addressing the Gender Wage Gap in Papua New Guinea

Gender Wage Gap in Papua New GuineaPapua New Guinea is a developing country located in southwest Oceania. In 2021, U.N. Women reported the island country’s designation as a “lower middle-income country,” amassing a gross national per capita income of $2,386. Based on U.N. Women’s study, statistics show that Papua New Guinea’s income poverty sits at 28%, with 90% of those most affected living in rural environments. To complicate this further, rural women and children are among the most vulnerable under these conditions, facing many challenges to live healthy lives sustainably. Here is information about the gender wage gap in Papua New Guinea.

About the Gender Wage Gap

History has repeatedly indicated a significant disparity in power and economic allocations between women and men. In a society where men dominate the public sphere of influence, women are often disenfranchised. Due to this inequality, women are often short-sighted across sectors with limited access to power, resources, rights and wealth. A precedent of unequal pay for women in the labor market, known as the gender wage gap, often perpetuates this disparity.

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) defines the gender wage gap as “the difference between the median earnings of men and of women relative to the earnings of men.”

The Gender Wage Gap in Papua New Guinea

In March 2025, the World Bank (WBG) published research showing significant increases in gender equality across landscapes in Papua New Guinea. However, research still shows gaps in employment along gendered lines. In its study, it found the following information:

  • In 2023, the value of waged and salaried female workers amounted to 15.6, more than a 10% increase from the previously recorded value.
  • Hourly earnings gaps are evident between female and male workers. Reporting a median hourly wage gap of 31.5% across all workers, irrespective of employment status, and 13.3% across wage workers. In addition to this, the mean hourly wage gap is 30.8% across all workers, irrespective of employment status and 16.3% across wage workers.
  • In Papua New Guinea, 81.9% of women are vulnerably employed (those who are self-employed and have lower labor incomes and low job security), with the remaining female population making up employers and wage and salaried workers. However, in comparison to this statistic, their male counterparts comprise 68.5% of vulnerable employment, with the remaining 27.3% fulfilling roles as employers and wage and salaried workers.

Steps in Achieving Gender Equality Globally

In the face of these wage and economic inequalities, various efforts are occurring to address these disparities. In 2024, the World Bank Group launched an initiative to accelerate gender equality, end poverty and cultivate a more livable planet. This conceptual framework will be implemented from 2024 until 20230 across the world. Its objectives include:

  • Ending gender based violence and elevating human capital
  • Expanding and enabling economic opportunities
  • Engaging women as leaders

Project Implementation in Papua New Guinea

Under the WBG’s program, selected countries like Papua New Guinea expressed a vested interest in prioritizing gender equality through various programs and reforms. The World Bank Group has outlined the following approaches.

  • The WBG is aiming to remove “barriers to women’s economic inclusion.”
  • It is prioritizing gender equality and emphasizing women’s participation in the labor force.
  • The WBG is also integrating gender analysis into the “country’s analytics to inform policy dialogue.”

This initiative leverages collective action in the interest of cultivating a world and future committed to nondiscrimination, inclusion and equality of opportunity. Furthermore, economic opportunities will experience expansion through meaningful and transformative impact. By working closely with nations through a country-engagement model, strategies to implement change through innovative financing and policy reforms will enable the advancement of public resources, support and equality for people regardless of their gender identity.

– McKenzie Rentie

McKenzie is based in Dallas, TX, USA and focuses on Celebs and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

,

Fighting Femicide in Uruguay

femicide uruguayGender-based violence claims the lives of 11 women every day in Latin America and the Caribbean, making it a regional crisis. Defined as the intentional murder of a woman with a gender-related motivation, femicide can occur under many different circumstances, including intimate or former partner violence, honour killings and human trafficking. In 2021, the femicide rate in Uruguay per 100,000 women ranked eighth out of 18 countries and territories in Latin America. However, both the Uruguayan government and civil society groups have taken legal action and preventative measures to fight femicide.

Ending Gender-Based Violence

In 2017, the government decided to take action against disturbing levels of femicide in Uruguay with various legal reforms. This included Law no. 19.580, which specifically recognizes and defines femicide as a crime whilst sentencing perpetrators more severely than those guilty of homicide. As a result of this shift in legal focus, the state launched the Observatorio de Violencia Basada en Género hacia las Mujeres (OVBG), which collects and monitors data regarding gender-based violence in Uruguay, and ProMujeres, a program that focuses on gender equality and women’s empowerment, under the Ministry of Social Development. Funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), ProMujeres aims to enhance the work of Inmujeres, Uruguay’s National Institute of Women, thanks to the allocation of new funding.

The work of Inmujeres

Inmujeres is responsible for overseeing the OVBG, as well as monitoring the implementation of Law no. 19.580 and providing various services for women at risk of femicide in Uruguay. Most of these services include legal support, temporary shelter and telephone counselling for victims of gender-based violence.

Between 2020 and 2024, the organization offered their services to 16,821 victims of gender-based violence, as well as supporting 175 women in situations of human trafficking in 2022.

Furthermore, in 2020, the government announced a $4 million increase in funding for electronic ankle bracelets designed to distance perpetrators from victims, thereby preventing future cases of femicide in Uruguay. Inmujeres is also working to avoid femicide in Uruguay by running a campaign in schools across the country, called Noviazgos Libres de Violencia. The youth-orientated project aims to break the intergenerational cycle of intimate and former partner violence and reached around 13,000 young people in 2022 alone.

Building a Network of Prevention, Support and Awareness

In addition to legal reforms and state-run programs, there are various civil society groups working to fight femicide in Uruguay in numerous ways.

Mujeres de Negro (Uruguay) has been raising awareness about femicide in Uruguay since 2006. Based in Montenegro but part of a wider international movement, Mujeres de Negro (Uruguay) organises silent protests in remembrance of victims, as well as publicly advocating against gender-based violence and denouncing discrimination.

Comuna Mujer is another Montevideo-based organization fighting femicide, operating 14 centres across the region where women at risk of gender-based violence can receive free and confidential services. These services include legal and psychosocial support to help women escape situations of gender-based violence. Comuna Mujer’s impact on women at risk of femicide in Montevideo has been crucial, as the organization provided services to 5,063 women and carried out 15,896 consultations between 2023 and 2024.

Whilst offering support services for victims is essential, the Uruguayan Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (RUCVDS)  focuses on the prevention of gender-based violence, and their work has been extremely impactful across Uruguay. The RUCVDS is composed of over 30 civil society groups with over 25 years of experience, running a range of projects catered towards the prevention, awareness and research of gender-based violence.

One of these projects includes the 2021 “Nunca Más a Mi Lado” campaign, which included the re-release of the song “No Te Va Gustar” in order to promote healthy relationships and raise awareness about the dangers of romanticizing abusive partnerships. The campaign spanned over ten years and involved 100 workshops, including sessions inside female prisons, and all of the proceeds from the song’s re-release went towards projects preventing domestic violence

Femicide in Uruguay: The Challenges and Gaps

Despite the great work of both the state and civil society groups, Uruguay has not been able to keep up with the increasing demand for supportive and preventative services related to gender-based violence, and female participation in positions of power continues to be low.

Although the legal reforms in 2017 signalled the prioritisation of femicide as an urgent issue in Uruguay, efforts to fully implement the law have not yet been completely successful, according to Amnesty International, mostly due to a lack of resources. It is also important to recognise that marginalised groups are at a higher risk of femicide in Uruguay, since 86% of afro-descendant women and 92.5% of LGBTQ+ women reported being victims of gender-based violence, which is much higher than the national average of 77%

The Future

Uruguay’s success in its approach to fighting femicide lies in its decision to invest in prevention and monitoring, instead of just focusing solely on punishment. The eradication of femicide is a complex process, but with the investment of more time and resources, Uruguay is on the right track.

– Clodagh Dowson

Clodagh is based in Bradford on Avon, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Initiatives to Empower Ukrainian Women Through Entrepreneurship

Ukrainian WomenImpact Force is a women-founded Ukrainian nongovernmental organization (NGO) that supports vulnerable groups with skills and resources. It helps small and medium-sized businesses grow sustainably and advises government bodies on reforms that promote transparency and inclusion.

Its program, “Dream and Achieve,” launched in 2023, has recently finalized its second cohort. The initiative was created to empower Ukrainian women through entrepreneurship. It receives support from international organizations like U.N. Women and government institutions such as France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.

Hope Amid Loss

Nina Levchuk and Olga Diakova are the co-leaders of the Dream and Achieve program on business development. The project emerged in response to the rising unemployment and the negative impact the Russian invasion had on women’s role in the economy. The program is designed to support those affected by war struggles, including internally displaced people, veterans and single mothers and to empower Ukrainian women through entrepreneurship.

The initiative offers a three-month training in digital marketing, socially responsible business models and strategies and personal mentorship. It also gives participants $1000 in financial assistance for their entrepreneurship initiatives.

Success Stories

The training and valuable insights have helped many women to take a bold step, whether launching a new business or reshaping the strategy of an existing one. Despite the different motivations, the program participants agree that Dream and Achieve has guided them to success.

  • Olena Vlasynevych is the wife of a veteran and also a yoga and meditation instructor. She founded Ashram Spokoiu to help women through stress and loss. Through the program, she refined her focus on women above 40 seeking harmony, strengthening her business vision. She’s expanding her offerings with new products, retreats and a solid online presence.
  • Anastasiia Filonenko created FILOCERA, a ceramics and sculpture brand that channels emotion through art. Her works decorate homes and restaurants, serving both domestic and therapeutic purposes. Thanks to Dream and Achieve, she relaunched her Etsy store and reached global customers.
  • Aliona Demchenko was relocated from Balky to Dnipro with her child. She launched Veseli Lystochky, a reusable notebook brand that combines learning and playing. They support children’s logic and memory development. After attending the Dream and Achieve program, she doubled her profits. She also gained skills in customer relationship management (CRM) and marketplaces. Now, her next goal is to open a child development center.

Impacts of the 2023 Cohort

The program received more than 1,000 applications, from which 80 women were selected. At the beginning of the program, 75% of the women hoped to acquire skills in using online platforms and e-commerce tools. By the end, 98% assured having improved their knowledge and skills in business management and the digital economy. Beyond training, the program came to be a boost to participants’ businesses. More than 32% reported an improvement in income and financial stability.

Many participants described the experience as inspirational and hope for more women to benefit from it. The initiative demonstrates a powerful truth: the first step in rebuilding a country needs people who dare to dream big.

– Sara Arias Saiz

Sara is based in Leipzig, Germany and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

Female Education in Cambodia: The Harpswell Foundation

harpswell cambodiaWith its wealth of natural beauty, you could be forgiven for thinking Cambodia was the closest Earth has to a paradise. However, beneath such a beautiful exterior, Cambodian women face inequalities every day, with illiteracy rates being 8% higher than those of their male counterparts. However, with the work of the Harpswell Foundation, Women of Cambodia have a powerful ally in the fight for equality.

Harpswell Building a Future in Cambodia

Founded in 2005, the Harpswell Foundation “seeks to bring about positive social change in Southeast Asia through the action and equal participation of women.” Whilst the foundation has a global reach, the majority of its good work comes in the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh. Harpswell have been responsible for building Cambodia’s first university dormitory for women and subsequently built a second within Phnom Penh in 2009.

Together, these dormitories can accommodate 76 female students from different universities across the city, with each facility coming with both a library and computer room – crucial amenities for student life. These dormitories come in a city where female students struggle to attain accommodation, which places further burden and stress on them. Therefore, it affects their studies. Through improving the infrastructure in place for the women of Cambodia, the work of Harpswell helps create a society in which women can both have freedom of ambition and freedom to learn.

The foundation’s reach does not just stop at improving infrastructure, but also seeks to educate. Women who enrol on Harpswell’s dormitories learn important skills through the foundation’s leadership program. This program enables “international women with university degrees” to stay at the dormitories to help teach, mentor, support and collaborate with residents. Leadership Residents teach weekly core curriculum classes, facilitate critical thinking classes and also help their Cambodian counterparts with preparation for class. Through the experience and wisdom of international graduates, Harpswell helps to teach female students in Cambodia crucial life skills, “ensuring graduates are proficient in English and digital literacy.”

Harpswell: Going Global

The foundation has established a scheme in which two to three exemplary graduates receive scholarships to study in the United States for an entire year. This scholarship scheme enables students to travel to another country, enabling them to take in different cultures and ways of life, all whilst pursuing their education. The scholarship program is of great benefit to Cambodia, too, where more than 50% of scholars return to seek graduate degrees.

Along with its scholarship programme, Harpswell also hosts the ASEAN Women’s Leadership Summit. This summit occurs on an annual basis, bringing together women aged between 25-35 from the ASEAN countries who have enrolled on a five-month “leadership development and professional networking program.” The summit itself lasts for a week, occurring in Penang, Malaysia. Described as “the only gathering of its kind in the region,” the summit offers women a chance to meet and work with like-minded people.

A Foundation for Change

Through both its domestic and international programmes, Harpswell aims to improve the lives of women in Southeast Asia by providing education and giving women a safe space to learn. This support is crucial in helping to achieve equality in a region where women lag behind their male counterparts in literacy rates. In a time of continual conflict and negativity, the story of the Harpswell Foundation is one of promise and prosperity, especially felt by young women in Cambodia, who dream of a bright and successful career.

– Andrew Nicoll

Andrew is based in Suffolk, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

Social Safety Net Programs Are Fighting Poverty in Bangladesh

Fighting Poverty in BangladeshMillions of Bangladeshi citizens live in abject poverty. As of 2022, the overall poverty rate was approximately 19%. However, the country has made significant improvements in decreasing poverty over the past few decades, mainly due to the country’s Social Safety Net Programs (SSNPs).

The nation has implemented these initiatives to help low-income Bangladeshis and give vulnerable communities long-term economic stability. With programs that provide food assistance, cash transfers and skills development, Bangladesh’s SSNPs aim to create a pathway for success for many struggling citizens.

The Vulnerable Group Development Program

One of the most impactful initiatives, the Vulnerable Group Development (VGD) program, primarily helps women suffering extreme food insecurity. Due to gender disparities in the country, women often suffer the most when it comes to poverty and hunger. Originally started as the Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) program in 1975, it changed to the VGD in 1982, shifting priorities from emergency relief to long-term development. The program distributes nutritious food over a specific period.

However, the program goes beyond that. Through a partnership with BRAC, Bangladesh’s largest nongovernmental organization (NGO), it educates individuals in basic reading, writing and nutrition skills, giving people the tools to lead a healthier and more successful life. By providing both food and education, the program helps vulnerable women break the vicious cycle of poverty as opposed to short-term help.

The Old Age Allowance Program

As the country is experiencing an aging population, the government has acted on the need to protect older citizens, with many lacking retirement savings. Before the program started in 1998, only retired government workers had pensions. The Old Age Allowance provides essential monthly cash transfers of BDT 500 (about $4) to older people.

The program helps nearly four million elderly citizens afford basic human necessities such as food, medicine and shelter, improving their quality of life and fighting poverty in Bangladesh. The program’s financial assistance also eases the burden on young family members who might be struggling financially to support them.

Income Generating for Vulnerable Group Development

The Income Generating for Vulnerable Group Development (IGVGD) program is another initiative that builds on the VGD program. The government designed IGVGD as a two-step poverty-reduction model. It helps low-income women develop from needing food aid through the VGD program to becoming self-sufficient workers earning a stable income.

Women in the program learn essential job skills, such as poultry farming and tailoring, which are crucial for future success. They may also receive small loans or grants to help them start their own businesses. Encouraging self-reliance and assisting women to secure employment empowers them to impact society and contribute to a growing economy. Over time, these efforts give women more control over their lives and strengthen the economy of local communities.

The Impact of the Social Safety Initiatives

These social safety initiatives have proven successful in fighting poverty in Bangladesh. There has been a major national decline in poverty rates in the past two decades. Poverty fell significantly between 2010 and 2016; in urban areas, it declined from 21.3% to 18.9%, while in rural areas it declined from 35.2% to 26.4%. Additionally, helping women develop vocational skills shows the program’s commitment to women’s empowerment in a country that historically offered them limited opportunities.

Recently, the government has decided to expand its social safety initiatives. It is working toward using technology to improve targeting mechanisms. Many international development organizations, such as the World Bank and the United Nations (U.N.), have also supported Bangladesh’s effort to improve the country’s SSNPs.

Final Remarks

Overall, Bangladesh’s Social Safety Net Programs show how time and investment in often overlooked groups of people can have a tremendous impact in reducing long-term poverty. It shows the effectiveness of targeted intervention in reducing poverty and creating long-term economic stability. By supporting at-risk groups, such as women and older people, with food assistance, cash transfers and vocational training skills development, the programs address major societal problems while creating a path for long-term success.

– Rafe Photopoulos

Rafe is based in Gainesville, FL, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

, ,

Government Takes Strides to Alleviate Period Poverty in Ghana

Government Takes Strides to Alleviate Period Poverty in Ghana The government of Ghana allocated GH₵292.4 million in its 2025 financial budget to provide free sanitary pads for girls in primary and secondary schools, marking a significant effort to address long-standing period poverty in the country. Plan International Ghana commended the initiative as a major investment in girls’ health, education and dignity.

Government Response to Menstrual Health

The Free Sanitary Pad Initiative (FSPI), announced by President John Dramani Mahama on April 24, seeks to combat period poverty—a chronic lack of access to menstrual products that disproportionately affects girls in rural areas. The Ghana Education Service estimates that up to 2 million girls will benefit from the program across public basic and secondary schools.

Limited access to menstrual products often leads girls to miss school during their periods. This absenteeism results in disrupted education and contributes to cycles of poverty. In more severe cases, girls are forced to use unsafe alternatives like newspapers, rags or leaves, which can lead to health complications and heighten their vulnerability to abuse. FSPI represents a significant policy move to reduce these risks. By providing menstrual products for free, the initiative aims to keep girls in school, improve academic outcomes and reduce gender-based barriers to education.

Breaking Stigma Through Education

FSPI also addresses material needs and seeks to reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation in Ghana. Misconceptions and social taboos around menstruation remain common, limiting open discussion and fostering discrimination against menstruating girls and women. These attitudes not only affect emotional well-being but also contribute to social exclusion. The government’s approach includes educational programming and public messaging to normalize conversations about menstrual health. Indeed, Ghana’s Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, described the initiative as an educational and developmental investment, not just a health intervention.

Plan International’s Role in Advocacy

The implementation of FSPI follows years of advocacy by organizations like Plan International Ghana, which urged the government in March 2024 to invest in menstrual health programs. The organization has distributed sanitary pads to more than 150,000 girls. Additionally, they have run nationwide campaigns to reduce stigma and increase awareness around menstrual hygiene.

Plan International Ghana has also promoted engagement with boys and men to support gender-inclusive conversations. Its programs have effectively reduced school absenteeism and promoted menstrual health education, especially in underserved communities. Applauding the FSPI, Constant Tchona, country director of Plan International Ghana, said the policy would address a key driver of inequality and help girls focus on education and reach their full potential.

Looking Ahead

While challenges remain, the Free Sanitary Pad Initiative marks a critical and historic step in the efforts to tackle period poverty in Ghana. Through this investment, the government is helping to ensure that menstruation no longer hinders girls’ access to education or exposes them to unnecessary risk. As implementation continues, sustained support and accountability could be essential in transforming policy into lasting change.

– Erin Hellhake

Erin is based in Old Bridge, NJ, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

Women’s Foundation Nepal: Empowering Women

How the Women’s Foundation in Nepal Empowers WomenThe Women’s Foundation Nepal (WFN) is a nongovernmental, nonprofit organization founded in 1988 to support women and children in Nepal. The organization works to improve the lives of those affected by poverty, violence and discrimination by providing shelter, education, legal aid and economic opportunities. Through community-driven initiatives, WFN fosters long-term solutions to empower women and break cycles of poverty.

Key Objectives of WFN

  • Providing Shelter. Safe homes for women and children escaping violence and poverty.
  • Expanding Access to Education. Training programs and scholarships for underprivileged children.
  • Advocating for Equal Rights. Legal assistance and policy advocacy for gender equality.
  • Promoting Economic Independence. Supporting micro-credits, self-sustaining businesses and fair-trade initiatives.

Safe Shelter and Essential Services

WFN operates three shelter homes in Kathmandu, providing refuge for more than 120 children and 30 women escaping violence, abuse or extreme poverty. These shelters ensure that women and children receive medical care, psychological support and legal aid, helping them recover from traumatic experiences and regain stability. Beyond providing a safe environment, the shelters also serve as a foundation for rebuilding lives by offering vocational training and job placement opportunities. Through these programs, residents gain essential skills and resources that enable them to achieve independence and long-term security.

Expanding Access to Education in Nepal

WFN ensures that survivors of violence receive educational opportunities and skills training to secure a better future. Programs include:

  • Early childhood education, scholarships and sponsorships for children from low-income families.
  • Vocational training programs, such as sewing, shoe-making, screen printing, house wiring, and personal support work.
  • The Nepalese Rural Women Program, launched in 2010, trains nearly 1,000 women across five rural districts. Training programs include leadership, gender equality and micro-financing.

Through these ongoing efforts, WFN equips women and children with the education and skills needed for long-term success.

Advocating for Equal Rights in Nepal

WFN actively fights against gender discrimination in legal frameworks and works to increase women’s representation in government and leadership roles. By lobbying for policy changes and providing free legal aid, WFN helps women secure their rights and escape oppressive situations. The foundation assists between five and seven women at its legal offices daily, offering guidance and support.

In 2019, Women’s Foundation Nepal won 62 cases related to divorce, violence and property rights, ensuring that women in vulnerable situations had access to justice. For cases that escalate to higher courts, WFN continues to provide legal aid and representation. By covering court fees and providing financial assistance, WFN has helped thousands of women and girls gain legal protection and secure their rights.

Economic Empowerment Through Self-Sustaining Businesses

WFN promotes economic independence by supporting micro-credit initiatives and women-led businesses. The Maheela Cooperative, a fair-trade organization launched in 2000, provides employment and training to women escaping poverty and violence. Currently, more than 80 women receive training and employment in textiles, handicrafts and jewelry production. These opportunities allow them to develop essential skills and achieve financial stability.

The cooperative reinvests 60% of its profits into WFN’s social programs, ensuring the sustainability of its initiatives. Fair wages and safe working conditions remain a priority, empowering women with stable incomes. Products created by the Maheela Cooperative, including scarves, textiles and handmade jewelry, are sold in Europe, the United States (U.S.) and Canada. This not only helps fund WFN’s projects but also creates a sustainable income source for the women involved, fostering long-term economic growth.

Scholarships and Sponsorships in Nepal

WFN supports more than 1,000 children from underprivileged backgrounds through scholarships and sponsorships, ensuring they have access to education. Sponsorships cover essential living expenses, including health care, food and clothing, for children in WFN’s shelter homes. The foundation also offers scholarships that provide tuition fees, school supplies and uniforms, enabling children to stay in school and complete their education.

By investing in education, WFN helps break the cycle of poverty, giving children the opportunity to build brighter futures and become self-sufficient. The organization also extends its support to higher education, funding university studies for children who achieve strong academic results in their 10th-grade exams. Through these programs, WFN empowers the next generation, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to create lasting change in their communities.

A Commitment to Ethical Practices

WFN and Maheela Cooperative prioritize fair wages, ethical labor practices and nondiscrimination policies. They actively oppose child labor and forced labor, ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment for all employees. The organization does not discriminate based on caste, nationality, religion, gender, disability or political beliefs, making it a model for inclusive social development in Nepal.

A Legacy of Empowerment

The Women’s Foundation Nepal was founded by a group of young women who helped rescue a missing girl forced into labor. Its advocacy grew into a thriving organization that now impacts thousands across Nepal. Results are achieved through shelter, legal aid, education and economic empowerment. Through its multifaceted approach, WFN continues to fight for a future where women and children in Nepal live free from violence, poverty and discrimination. With continued support, WFN can potentially expand its life-changing programs and uplift even more women and children across Nepal.

– Nalini Vijayakumar

Nalini is based in Perth, WA, Australia and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

IPTp Treatment: Reducing Malaria in Pregnant Women in Mali

IPTp Treatment: Reducing Malaria in Pregnant Women in MaliMalaria is an infamous disease resulting in around 249 million malaria cases worldwide, 94% of those being from Africa as a whole. The symptoms range from fatigue to yellowing skin to abnormal bleeding and can prove fatal if untreated. In Mali, where the population totals 22.6 million, malaria presents a significant health risk, spread primarily by mosquitoes. In 2022 alone, 7.9 million cases were reported, a record high for Mali. Pregnant women in Mali, specifically, have an increased risk of long-term effects if they get Malaria. The National Library of Medicine reported that catching this disease when pregnant can lead to “outcomes including stillbirth, early neonatal death, preterm delivery and low birth weight,” being the leading cause of death among mothers and their babies – both in utero and after birth.

The IPTp Pill

After observing the adverse effects of malaria on pregnant women, health professionals developed a specific treatment for this group, hoping to reduce malaria rates in Mali. Known as Intermittent Preventive Treatment of Malaria in Pregnant Women (IPTp), this treatment involves taking three pills during each trimester of pregnancy. IPTp has gained popularity for its convenience and affordability compared to other malaria prevention measures. A notable advantage is its minimal side effects, with most only occurring after the first dose.

IPTp Distribution

Once manufactured, various organizations distribute the IPTp treatment directly to Malians, focusing on pregnant women, young mothers and children aged 1-5. The United States (U.S.) President’s Malaria Initiative for Mali (PMI), dedicated solely to combating malaria in this demographic, was established in 2005. Its goal is to reduce malaria incidence by providing health care measures, including IPTp. Mali has stood out among Sub-Saharan African countries due to its high malaria mortality rates. Although PMI has increased the distribution of IPTp, Mali remains a priority because of political instability and insecurity, which hinder health service provision. To address this, PMI ensures a steady supply of IPTp pills to the 13 Malian towns most affected by malaria.

IPTp Awareness

A crucial role in implementing IPTp treatment for malaria in Mali is raising awareness about the pill’s effectiveness. The BMC Malaria Journal recently published a study suggesting that more pregnant women would choose IPTp if provided with a brief factsheet outlining malaria’s potential impacts on their health and that of their child, along with protection strategies. This finding highlights a lack of malaria knowledge among the Malian population, which negatively affects IPTp usage. Consequently, many organizations focused on eradicating malaria in Mali include educational components in their efforts. Groups like Save the Children and CNRS have conducted sessions for Malian teachers on malaria prevention and treatment, including IPTp. While not all classes exclusively comprise pregnant women, the dissemination of this information across various age groups in Mali supports advocacy efforts for IPTp pills.

Looking Ahead

Malaria remains a significant threat in Mali, particularly for pregnant women, with millions of cases reported in recent years. The IPTp has proven effective in reducing malaria-related health risks for both mothers and their children. Organizations such as the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative have prioritized distributing IPTp and raising awareness about its benefits. Efforts by groups like Save the Children and CNRS have also expanded education on malaria prevention, helping more women access life-saving treatments. Although challenges persist, continued focus on awareness and treatment distribution offers hope for reducing the impact of malaria on vulnerable populations.

– Nadia Haeryfar

Nadia is based in Ashford, CT, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

JUST Empowers Women Entrepreneurs Beyond Credit Barriers

Credit BarriersIn the vast landscape of financial services, the barriers faced by individuals with low incomes and poor credit histories are often insurmountable. Traditional lending institutions rely heavily on credit scores, which can disadvantage those historically marginalized or who have fallen victim to financial setbacks. This systemic issue has contributed to the perpetuation of poverty, especially among minority communities. However, a groundbreaking organization named JUST is rewriting the rules of lending to address these credit barriers, offering a unique approach that makes a tangible difference in the lives of many.

The Traditional Lending Dilemma

For individuals like Leti, a Hispanic woman who experienced a profound personal loss, the conventional financial system can seem both impersonal and inaccessible. After the tragic loss of her child, Leti’s food truck business, once her lifeline, collapsed. As her financial situation worsened, she struggled to secure traditional loans and lacked savings to fall back on. With her prospects dwindling, Leti began cleaning homes to make ends meet.

A New Hope: JUST

Leti’s fortunes took a turn when she discovered JUST, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Hispanic and Black female entrepreneurs. Founded to provide financial assistance without relying on traditional credit scores, JUST operates on a trust and community support model. Its approach has proven effective: it has disbursed more than $21 million in loans with a remarkable 99% repayment rate.

Steve Wanta, CEO and co-founder of JUST, explains that their method represents a departure from the conventional financial system’s reliance on credit scores. “Our financial system in the United States is not designed to trust people, especially those without money,” Wanta asserts. “Credit scores don’t paint an accurate picture of capability for thousands of people who have, in some cases, been penalized by the system or can’t get a foothold in the first place. Building up a longstanding credit history is impossible without that initial foothold.”

Breaking down Credit Barriers

JUST’s innovative model involves assessing individuals based on their potential and character rather than their financial history. When Leti applied for a loan through JUST, the organization met her with an empathetic and supportive process. No one asked for her credit score or scrutinized the failure of her previous venture. Instead, it gave her a $750 loan based on trust and belief in her potential to succeed.

Leti’s experience with JUST showcases the effectiveness of its approach. Before receiving a loan, she cleaned four houses a week, barely making ends meet. After joining the JUST community, she secured the funding to revitalize her business. With support from JUST’s peer coaches and a network of women entrepreneurs who had overcome similar challenges, her cleaning business flourished. What started as a one-person operation has become a successful enterprise, now employing more than 30 people.

Final Note

The success of JUST’s model underscores the power of trust in financial transactions. JUST has created a lifeline for those who might otherwise be excluded from the financial system by offering loans based on character and potential rather than credit scores. This approach supports individual entrepreneurs and fosters community development and economic empowerment.

As Leti’s story demonstrates, providing opportunities to those who might be overlooked can lead to remarkable outcomes. With continued support and innovation, JUST is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable financial landscape, proving that trust and community can be powerful tools in the fight against poverty.

– Sakshi Bhagat

Sakshi is based in Kolkata, West Bengal, India and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

, ,

How to Solve World Hunger in 10 Steps

How to Solve World Hunger

In 2010, former World Food Programme (WFP) Executive Director Josette Sheeran boldly stated, “We can end hunger. Many hungry nations have defeated hunger. It doesn’t require some new scientific breakthrough. It’s not rocket science.” Sheeran’s proposal on how to solve world hunger in 10 steps is still relevant today:

  1. Humanitarian action: Natural disaster impacts the world annually. According to World Vision, in 2015, the worst natural disasters recorded were (i) An earthquake — Nepal, (ii) A flood — Chennai, India, (iii) A heat wave — southern India, (iv) Typhoon and monsoon rains — Myanmar, Bangladesh and India (v) Floods — Malawi and Mozambique and (vi) A drought — Ethiopia. In 2016, the American Red Cross and other organizations are still providing direct relief for the survivors. Sheeran advocates for volunteerism in communities affected by natural disasters to help with relief and reduce world hunger.
  2. School meals: This is an affordable approach to promoting development and reducing malnutrition. Individuals can donate online to organizations that provide school meals or they can provide direct relief.
  3. Safety nets: A “safety net” is comparable to a backup plan for when natural disasters strike. For example, the Red Cross is considered a safety net based upon their annual direct relief efforts. Safety nets should be linked to schools and farmers in case of an emergency such as a famine or flood.
  4. Connect small farmers to markets: According to the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), small farmers produce 80 percent of the world’s food supply. However, the majority barely make enough income to survive. By connecting small farmers to markets, they can increase their income potential and learn best practices such as drip irrigation and soil tillage.
  5. Nourish children during their first 1,000 days: The first 1,000 days of a child’s life are the most important for development and growth. Nourishing children is an investment that can help to increase trade and expand job creation.
  6. Empower women: Women in South America and Asia are more likely to go hungry than men. When hunger affects women, hunger affects children. Women make up the majority of agricultural manual workers, therefore empowering women creates greater food security for the entire household.
  7. Technology revolution: Iraq refugees began to use text messages on mobile phones in 2010 as a means to get food by WFP food vouchers saving money and travel time. Now, refugees do not have to journey to a distribution center and return with over a month’s worth of food.
  8. Build resiliency: Hunger is highly correlated with disaster. According to the WFP, “It is essential to help build the resiliency of vulnerable communities so that when emergencies strike, they are strong enough to cope.” The organization provides disaster relief for over 80 million people in over 60 different countries.
  9. Make a difference as an individual: Social media is booming in today’s world. Anyone can help bring awareness to global hunger by accessing these tools. For example, people can tweet, Instagram or Facebook post about their favorite global poverty awareness organizations to get their friends to donate. Awareness is a powerful first step to solving world hunger.
  10. Show leadership: WFP honored President of Brazil Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva as a “Global Champion for the Fight Against Hunger” award. “President Lula has shown leadership in the fight against hunger by pushing the needs of the poor and the undernourished to the very top of the international agenda,” stated Sheeran.The above steps provide an excellent guideline on how to solve world hunger. The WFP continues to encourage individuals and organizations globally to take a stand now in order to end the hunger crisis for future generations.
  • – Rachel Hutchinson