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Malnutrition in Guatemala

Malnutrition in GuatemalaWith nearly half of the population unable to afford basic foods, malnutrition in Guatemala remains a critical barrier to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger. This global target aims to eliminate all forms of malnutrition by 2030, yet progress in the country has been slow. However, support from local organizations and international aid efforts offers a path forward.

The Current Situation of Hunger in Guatemala

Since 1960, Guatemala has struggled with high levels of food insecurity. At that time, 60% of children under 5 suffered from stunting. By 2023, that figure dropped to 46.5%, an improvement of just 0.21 percentage points per year over six decades. This slow progress reflects deep-rooted challenges. Malnutrition severely limits brain development in children, reducing educational outcomes and increasing vulnerability to illness. According to Seeds for a Future, malnourished parents often pass on these disadvantages to their children, reinforcing the cycle of poverty across generations.

More than 2.9 million Guatemalans face crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity. Migrant flows also strain resources, with 223,000 people passing through the country between January and September 2024. Many of these individuals require food assistance, emergency nutrition and protection during their transit. Without swift humanitarian support, vulnerable populations face rising health risks. Aid groups urge donors to fund safe transit points and deliver nutritional support to prevent widespread health consequences.

Understanding the Root Causes

Systemic poverty continues to drive hunger in Guatemala. Environmental shocks, especially in the Dry Corridor, worsen the crisis. Many families rely on agriculture to survive, but droughts and erratic weather often destroy crops and slash incomes. As food prices rise and yields drop, households face greater difficulty feeding their children. In October 2024 alone, the Food Security and Nutrition Secretariat recorded 25,000 cases of acute malnutrition among children under 5.

Short-term food distributions can save lives but rarely lead to lasting change. Many programs unintentionally create dependency by failing to build skills or resilience. Long-term strategies that focus on education, sustainable farming and economic empowerment provide communities with the tools to escape malnutrition permanently.

Organizations Supporting Guatemala

  • Seeds for a Future. Seeds for a Future is an organization that supplies rural families and communities with the training and essential resources to grow sustainable crops and understand nutritional health requirements for mothers and infants. Since 2009, the Seeds program has been addressing the issue of malnutrition in Guatemala with a 12-month program, mentoring families for their individual needs at a low cost. Currently, the organization has helped 5,400 families in 19 communities with its easily replicable food security and health training program. The program continues to implement its training strategies and hopes to expand to even more communities. 
  • World Food Programme (WFP).  The WFP has operated in Guatemala since 1974. Working closely with government ministries and United Nations (U.N.) agencies, the program assists with food security and nutrition for the country’s most vulnerable individuals and families. To achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 2), the WFP is strengthening social programs to minimize food insecurity and malnutrition in Guatemala. Workshops and nutrition-sensitive interventions were put in place to detect and better the conditions of malnutrition, especially for children and pregnant women. Considering the struggles that families go through after climate shocks, the program also works to enhance resilience and provide access to affordable markets.

Looking Ahead

In 2025, humanitarian agencies plan to scale up operations in 60 of Guatemala’s 81 most food-insecure municipalities, including Alta Verapaz and Huehuetenango. These regions experience the highest rates of crop failure and child malnutrition and are in desperate need of food security interventions. Despite the high number of malnutrition cases in Guatemala, efforts are being implemented to improve the community’s resilience and health stability. The most vulnerable are receiving the necessary resources and support with the hopes of eliminating all forms of food insecurity by 2030. 

– Sarina Francis

Sarina is based in Tallahassee, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Stepping Up as Global Funding Declines: NGOs Replacing U.S. Aid

NGOs Replacing U.S. AidSince January 2025, significant shifts in U.S. foreign aid policy have left a substantial void in global development funding. The Trump administration’s decision to freeze the USAID funding has disrupted health and humanitarian programs worldwide and damaged its credibility in previous commitments to public health and humanitarian efforts. This abrupt halt has suspended vital initiatives, forcing many organizations to shut down projects, lay off staff and withdraw from communities—further intensifying the challenges that NGOs replacing U.S. aid in affected regions face

The Immediate Impact of Aid Cuts

The immediate impact of USAID cuts has been severe and far-reaching, affecting millions of people worldwide. The U.S. has historically been a driving force in international development assistance, but the recent cuts have led to the collapse of USAID-backed programs, creating a funding void that private donors struggle to fill.

Global health programs like the International Rescue Committee (IRC), which works to prevent and treat infectious diseases, and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) are among the hardest hit. With fewer resources, NGOs replacing U.S. aid face an uphill battle in controlling outbreaks, leaving the most vulnerable populations at higher risk.

To put the impact into numbers, “about 80% of the 1,460 community kitchens across Sudan shut down when USAID paused all funding,” according to Hajooj Kuka, spokesperson for the Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs) in Khartoum state, as reported by Al Jazeera, an independent news channel in the Arab world.

In contrast, advocacy groups continue to push forward for restored funding, emphasizing that foreign aid is not just a moral duty but a strategic investment in global stability.

NGOs’ Strategic Responses and Challenges

As NGOs replacing U.S. aid navigate these challenges, they have intensified efforts to influence policy changes and secure alternative resources. One of their key strategies is diversification, with public-private partnerships emerging as a major source of funding. This advocacy is essential to keeping global development priorities on the international agenda.

To cope with funding shortfalls, many NGOs are implementing temporary measures such as tapping into their financial reserves and unrestricted funds to sustain essential operations. They are also renegotiating agreements with other donors and seeking waivers to maintain critical services. Additionally, some staff members are working voluntarily to keep essential programs running. While these efforts demonstrate the dedication of those in the sector, they also underscore the urgent need for sustainable funding solutions.

The Future of NGOs in a Changing Aid Scene

With persistent global challenges such as changing weather patterns, rising inequality and ongoing conflicts, the need for resilience and adaptability among NGOs replacing U.S. aid is more critical than ever. These organizations are actively seeking diverse funding alternatives, forging strategic partnerships and embracing technology to sustain their operations. The ability of NGOs to replace U.S. aid to navigate these changes could be crucial in shaping the future of international aid and development.

– Rhasna Albuquerque

Rhasna is based in Fortaleza, Brazil and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Emergency Response Rooms are Alleviating Poverty in Sudan

Alleviating Poverty in SudanSudan is the third-largest country in Africa and one of the poorest in the world, with 57% of the population in extreme poverty. Since April 2023, a civil war in the country has killed more than 18,800 civilians and forced 14 million people to leave their homes. The United Nations (U.N.) has estimated that 30.4 million people need humanitarian assistance. The WFO and WHO operate in the area, but the conflict’s shifting conditions make the delivery of international aid difficult. However, another form of aid is alleviating poverty in Sudan: Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs).

Community-Led Aid in Sudan

The first ERRs in Sudan began in 2019 and now comprise more than 700 volunteer-run spaces that provide food, medicine and support for communities, alleviating poverty in Sudan. While international agencies face limitations, the ERRs deliver community-led support that improves how donations are used and localizes the delivery of aid. This approach—known as mutual aid—has reached more than 11.5 million people. The ERRs’ impact has earned them a nomination for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. Through community networks, efficient delivery and adaptable structures, ERRs offer a localized model of aid in Sudan.

Community Links and Flexibility

In addition to adapting quickly to the civil war’s impact on aid delivery, the ERRs operate within local communities and use pre-existing resources. The outbreak of war worsened Sudan’s food crisis, putting 25 million people at risk of starvation. While U.N. food trucks are restricted to refugee camps in neighboring Chad, ERRs can deliver food supplies. ERRs in the state of West Kordofan feed 177,000 people daily.

As Kholood Khair, director of the think tank Confluence Advisory, puts it, “[ERRs] are able to negotiate access locally; they are able to buy from local markets; they are able to make their activities as flexible as needs be, very unlike NGOs.” That flexibility has allowed ERRs to serve various roles over the years. A forerunner to the ERRs started in 2013 in response to mass flooding and ERRs played a key role during the COVID-19 pandemic by raising awareness, disinfecting hospitals and distributing medicine. The ERRs’ local roots and adaptability continue to help address crises as they arise.

Mutual Aid and Cost Efficiency

International aid often involves donor dependency and external control. ERRs, by contrast, give local communities the tools to manage their own needs. Rather than relying on international structures, mutual aid efforts in Sudan have created local alternatives. According to the Mutual Aid Sudan Coalition—a group of philanthropic and aid organizations that support ERRs—$0.95 of every $1 donated goes directly to local actors. In comparison, UNICEF reports that £0.75 of every £1 goes toward its work for children and the British Red Cross states that £0.65 of every £1 helps people in crisis. This higher percentage of funds reaching local communities reveals how ERRs provide a more direct use of donations.

The Future of ERRs and International Aid in Sudan

In September 2024, the Mutual Aid Sudan Coalition pledged to allocate $2 million to ERRs by the end of the year, calling mutual aid “the most viable and cost-effective mechanism to reach at-risk communities.” While this support remains essential, some challenges persist. A recent report from the Social Science in Humanitarian Action Platform stated that the success of ERRs might “enable a new era of localization in Sudan,” but noted that international aid frameworks do not align with the ERRs’ model.

Bringing ERRs closer to international aid networks could increase funding opportunities. However, doing so could reduce the flexibility and responsiveness that have made them effective. Maintaining the ERRs’ local approach can potentially preserve their ability to respond directly and efficiently to community needs.

– Oliver Tanner

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

Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Empowerment International: Disrupting Poverty

Women’s Empowerment International: Disrupting Cycles of Poverty More than 10% of women worldwide are trapped in extreme poverty due to structural barriers such as inadequate education and vocational training, limited financial resources and prevailing patriarchal social structures that hinder their mobility out of poverty. Women’s Empowerment International (WE) is actively disrupting these cycles. WE funds small business loans, education, training and other strategies to alleviate poverty through partnerships with high-impact, nonprofit organizations. This support equips women with the necessary resources and tools to improve their livelihoods and enhance their lives.

WE Organization’s Focus

WE focus on regions where women are in dire need and lack adequate social support from states or governments. The organization carefully selects nonprofit partners to deliver tailored programs for women in need. These partners develop and run high-impact programs aimed at improving the livelihoods of women below the poverty line. The programs address key issues such as violence against women’s sustainability and ensure regular and responsive communication among all participants.

WE measure the progress of its programs using the ‘WISE: Women’s Impact Sustainability and Empowerment Project’ data metric. This tool evaluates improvements in financial literacy, shifts in provider roles, changes in decision-making and business sustainability to ensure that women are the primary beneficiaries. WE’s expansive reach includes impactful work in Guatemala, San Diego, Haiti, Honduras, Uganda and El Salvador. Each program is specifically tailored to the goals of the women in each locale and the resources available to maximize success.

Honduras

In Honduras, 70% of the population lives in poverty, with half of the population in some areas surviving on less than $1.25 per day. Rural illiteracy rates are as high as 40% and child malnutrition exceeds 60%. Residents of these areas, often isolated with no transportation or access to clean water, primarily rely on subsistence farming, logging and livestock raising for income. Since 2007, WE has collaborated with the Adelante Foundation to offer small business loans to 2,100 women in these impoverished rural communities. It also provides educational resources, achieving a loan repayment rate of 94.4%. Women receiving loans support each other as guarantors, creating solidarity groups that foster collective success. These entrepreneurs have launched ventures ranging from local stores and bicycle repair shops to greenhouses, using their profits to educate their children and reinvest in their communities.

Guatemala

In Guatemala, WE has formed a partnership with Multicolores. The organization assists women in creating sustainable sources of income independent of formal education or long-term external aid. Based in rural villages, Multicolores supports Indigenous Mayan women through the ‘Stitching New Narratives’ program, which enhances their traditional stitching and design skills. This initiative not only celebrates their indigenous heritage but also enables them to produce garments that foster economic prosperity, helping to elevate them from poverty. The program supports these artists in their creative and economic development, which in turn improves their living conditions, health, well-being, and social mobility.

Uganda

Uganda has been severely affected by the AIDS epidemic, which has left many children orphaned. Thousands of grandmothers have become primary caregivers, often supporting up to six children single-handedly. In 2024, WE partnered with the Nyaka AIDS Orphans Foundation to launch the Nyaka Granny Microfinance Project. This initiative provides loans to grandmothers to start small businesses, generating income to support their families. More than 7,000 grandmothers have benefited from the program, engaging in activities such as animal husbandry, handicrafts, produce cultivation and crop sales. By earning an income, these grandmothers can improve their living conditions. Additionally, they can ensure their grandchildren receive an education, thus breaking cycles of poverty and empowering women across generations.

Driving Change

Women’s Empowerment International have made incredible strides in empowering women in areas of high poverty. Its programs enable women to develop the tools and infrastructure needed for sustainable economic progression. Furthermore, by providing initial assistance and resources, the organization allows women to drive their success rather than remaining dependent on external aid.

– Rebecca Barry

Rebecca is based in Manchester, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Effects of Water Pollution in Pakistan

5 Effects of Water Pollution in PakistanCurrently, more than 21 million Pakistanis face a water sanitation crisis affecting the entire country. Major cities like Karachi and Lahore struggle to provide access to clean and safe drinking water. The situation is even more dire in rural villages that lack modern systems and adequate health care. The Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources predicts that by 2025, the country will face extreme water shortages. Large-scale industrialization has contaminated many essential water sources, benefiting the economy but causing unchecked environmental damage. The pollution introduces high levels of chemical and biological toxins into the water. Understanding the top five effects of water pollution in Pakistan could help quantify the challenges faced by the population.

5 Effects of Water Pollution in Pakistan

  1. Waterborne Diseases. The outdated water distribution network in Pakistan, located near many industrial plants and sewage systems, introduces numerous toxins into the drinking water. Bacteria such as E-coli and Salmonella, when ingested, can be detrimental to health, leading to diseases such as typhoid, intestinal worms and cryptosporidium infections, which account for more than 40% of communicable diseases in Pakistan. Widespread poverty exacerbates the effects of these diseases, as many Pakistanis cannot afford the necessary medications.
  2. Infant Mortality.  The infant mortality rate in Pakistan is among the highest in developing nations, with water pollution playing a significant role due to the vulnerability of infants to harmful bacteria and fecal matter. According to UNICEF, only 35.8% of the Pakistani population has access to clean drinking water. Exposure to toxic bacteria during pregnancy and early childhood can lead to birth defects and early onset of severe diseases, both of which significantly increase the risk of infant mortality, especially given the limited access to medical care for many families.
  3. Agricultural Damage. Man-made agricultural fertilizers are a significant source of water pollution, which poses severe challenges to Pakistan’s agricultural sector. Given the country’s predominantly dry and hot climate, manufactured water sources are crucial for the survival of many farms. Additionally, small family-owned farms in numerous villages depend entirely on agricultural profits for their livelihood. The broader population also relies heavily on this produce for sustenance. Contaminated water, which harms more than it helps the plants, forces farmers to use scarce freshwater supplies. This situation creates substantial economic and social impacts due to the limited availability of clean water.
  4. Contaminated Food Products. Contaminated food products often result from crops irrigated with impure water. Livestock exposure to polluted water, contamination in marine waters and the use of pesticides and fertilizers further toxify essential resources. Without access to healthy, clean food for consumption and sale, many populations face starvation and life-threatening diseases.
  5. Decreased Biodiversity. Water pollution destroys numerous habitats, including lakes, rivers and ponds. Pollution renders them unable to support aquatic life due to chemical contamination and nutrient depletion. This disrupts food chains as smaller, less chemically resistant organisms die off, impacting species that rely on them for sustenance. Additionally, eutrophication, spurred by excessive nitrogen and phosphorus, triggers algae blooms that further degrade marine ecosystems by limiting sunlight and reducing energy available to aquatic species.

The Paani Project

The Paani Project, headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is actively enhancing water quality in Pakistan. Founded by four Pakistani Americans seeking to address the water crisis, the nonprofit has developed more than 20,000 water systems since its inception. Additional projects include deepwater wells, solar wells and reverse osmosis plants. As of June 2024, Paani collaborates closely with local partners to identify the most suitable water solutions for each rural community, maximizing the impact of donations. The organization emphasizes transparency, providing donors with approximately 30 photos of the construction process, a video of the completed water system and a comprehensive water quality report.

Looking Ahead

Pakistan’s water crisis poses significant challenges, from waterborne diseases to agricultural damage, impacting millions of lives. Efforts by organizations like the Paani Project offer hope. Their tailored water solutions work to improve access and quality across the country. With a focus on addressing the immediate needs of affected communities, these ongoing initiatives contribute to mitigating the long-term effects of water pollution and ensuring a more sustainable future for Pakistan.

– Sophia Kharal

Sophia is based in San Jose, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

Turquoise Mountain: Reviving Heritage and Empowering Communities

Turquoise MountainIn regions like Afghanistan, Myanmar and the Middle East, where conflict has ravaged communities, cultural heritage often faces destruction. The loss of historic sites and traditional crafts not only threatens the identity of these communities but also endangers their economic survival. Turquoise Mountain, a nongovernmental organization (NGO), works to counter this. The organization works to revive traditional crafts, restore architectural heritage and provide sustainable livelihoods.

The Origins of Turquoise Mountain

Rory Stewart, a former British politician and diplomat, founded Turquoise Mountain in 2006. His experience in international development, particularly in war-torn regions, shaped the NGO’s mission to protect cultural heritage and create economic opportunities for local artisans. Turquoise Mountain aimed to preserve history while offering a way out of poverty. Stewart frequently references his involvement with the NGO on the podcast “The Rest Is Politics,” where he discusses its ongoing impact in fragile regions.

Reviving Traditional Crafts

A key part of Turquoise Mountain’s mission involves reviving traditional crafts. The organization has trained thousands of artisans in woodworking, ceramics, calligraphy and jewelry-making in Afghanistan, once central to the region’s identity. Many of these artisans come from extreme poverty or displacement and the skills they develop through Turquoise Mountain allow them to support their families while keeping traditions alive. Through access to international markets, Turquoise Mountain creates sustainable job opportunities, helping communities thrive.

Restoring Architectural Heritage

Another major focus of Turquoise Mountain involves restoring historic buildings damaged or neglected due to conflict. The organization has restored more than 150 historic buildings in cities like Kabul, where war destroyed much of the architectural landscape. These buildings, symbols of the region’s rich history, now serve as hubs of community activity. The restoration projects provide jobs for local workers and create spaces for education, health care and cultural exchange.

One of Turquoise Mountain’s most notable achievements is the revival of Murad Khani, a historic district in Kabul. Once a bustling center of trade and craftsmanship, Murad Khani had deteriorated after years of war. Under Stewart’s leadership, Turquoise Mountain restored the district’s traditional mud-brick buildings and reestablished it as a thriving artisan community. Today, Murad Khani exemplifies how restoring cultural heritage can drive economic revitalization in conflict zones.

Rory Stewart’s Vision and Influence

Stewart’s leadership has shaped Turquoise Mountain’s approach. His experience as a diplomat and exposure to some of the world’s most dangerous regions gave him insight into how culture can aid in rebuilding societies. Stewart believes cultural preservation can drive economic growth and Turquoise Mountain’s success proves that.

Stewart often shares stories of the organization’s work and challenges on “The Rest Is Politics.” His public profile has brought attention to the importance of cultural preservation in development work, positioning him as a key figure in the global effort to protect cultural heritage.

The Connection to Poverty Alleviation

Cultural preservation may not seem like an obvious way to alleviate poverty, but Turquoise Mountain’s work proves otherwise. By training artisans, restoring historic sites and connecting communities to global markets, the organization has created sustainable economic opportunities where they are most needed.

Turquoise Mountain’s impact is clear in Afghanistan, Myanmar and the Middle East: it creates jobs, supports families and revitalizes communities. As these regions recover from conflict, Turquoise Mountain’s projects lay the foundation for long-term stability by ensuring cultural identity and economic resilience remain intact.

– Harriet Conway

Harriet is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Organizations Improving Homelessness in Eritrea

Organizations Improving Homelessness in Eritrea Eritrea, after gaining independence from Ethiopia, enjoyed four years of stability. However, climate challenges such as drought led to a significant decline in water resources and food production. The usual rainy season along the coast ceased, adversely affecting farmers’ agricultural output. With a poverty threshold of $1.90, many families fell into debt and poverty. The return of Eritrean refugees from war exacerbated housing shortages, making it increasingly difficult to find rental homes due to limited availability and lack of employment opportunities. Consequently, many resorted to living in slums in urban centers, facing neglect and overcrowding, highlighting the severe impacts of homelessness in Eritrea.

International Fund for Agricultural Development

Stabilizing the ecosystem is a top priority for International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), addressing the impact of droughts and climate shocks on homelessness in Eritrea. Since 1966, IFAD has concentrated efforts in rural areas, where poverty rates are highest, by integrating climate change adaptation strategies to enhance crop production and combat malnutrition. The focus has been on raising awareness among women and youth about sustainable fishing and marketing techniques, promoting conservation farming and developing climate-smart technologies to boost the agricultural sector. Moreover, IFAD is dedicated to establishing a market-oriented rural agriculture to enhance rural livelihoods and food security.

A key initiative is the Fisheries Resources Management Programme (FReMP), which aims to transform the small-scale fisheries sector into a sustainable industry with increased yields. This program also supports the creation of enterprises that provide the necessary tools for maintaining a sustainable fishing business, particularly in coastal areas that house small-scale fishermen and youth entrepreneurs.

UNICEF

Eritrea faces significant challenges, including drought, a lack of safe water and economic hardships, affecting more than 1.1 million people. In response, The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) collaborates with the government to enhance preparedness and risk management. The organization has donated $14.7 million to improve the quality of drinking water and has initiated basic education programs for vulnerable families. These ongoing efforts include both formal and informal learning spaces staffed with skilled teachers to address educational deficits among the homeless.

UNICEF is addressing malnutrition by distributing ready-to-use therapeutic food and partnering with the Ministry of Health to enhance care in neonatal intensive care units. Mobile outreach clinics are being deployed to provide health care services to isolated and homeless populations, improving access to nutrition and sanitation. To further ensure access to clean water, the implementation of rechargeable water wells is underway to protect groundwater supplies.

Mental health, a significant concern among the homeless, is being tackled through community-based rehabilitation and frequent home visits, benefiting those with disabilities. These initiatives are gaining visibility through national media and feedback from the U.S. public and quarterly monitoring visits help UNICEF evaluate the effectiveness of their interventions. Bridget Talkty from A New Leaf notes that mental health issues and high rent costs are leading causes of homelessness, emphasizing the importance of addressing these factors.

Caritas Eritrea

Caritas, aligned with the mission of the Catholic Church, promotes justice for impoverished communities globally, focusing significantly on Eritrea. In Eritrea, Caritas operates a supplementary feeding program benefiting 35,000 individuals, coordinating with advisors in Asmara, Keren and Barentu. Additionally, the organization undertakes emergency aid projects to address climate-induced challenges, particularly drought. Aid is distributed through church clinics, including providing five goats and lambs to farming households to enhance their food and nutrient sources. Talty adds that although providing resources is the primary step in helping homelessness, people “should assist these programs that help them become more independent.”

Looking Forward

Efforts to address homelessness in Eritrea continue through targeted interventions by IFAD, UNICEF and Caritas Eritrea. These organizations focus on sustainable agriculture, access to clean water, nutrition and mental health support for vulnerable populations. By empowering women, youth and small-scale fishermen, IFAD aims to enhance livelihoods and food security. UNICEF improves water access, health care and education, while Caritas provides resources and aid to support communities affected by drought and economic hardship. Together, these initiatives strive to alleviate the impacts of climate challenges and poverty across the country.

– Linda Yoonseo Lee

Linda  is based in Phoenix, AZ, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 NGOs in Malawi Successfully Addressing Poverty

NGOs in MalawiMalawi, a small country in southeastern Africa, faces one of the highest poverty rates in the world, with more than 70% of its population living below the poverty line. This figure highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address the various challenges of poverty, including health, education, agriculture, and clean water access. Several NGOs in Malawi are actively working to alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life for the people.

MBF Lifesaver Clinics

The Medical Benevolence Foundation (MBF) focuses on maternal and child health through its Lifesaver Clinics in Malawi. It operates clinics through local churches and has a large community-based staff. One of its key locations opened in 1937, the Bembeke clinic serves more than 29,000 residents and delivers an average of 43 babies every month. By providing critical health care services, including prenatal care, vaccinations and health education, MBF aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates. The organization’s outreach efforts not only enhance access to medical services but also educate local families about health and nutrition, fostering a healthier future for impoverished mothers and their children.

Hope4Malawi

Education is a core pillar of sustainable development, and Hope4Malawi is one of the NGOs in Malawi that focuses on enhancing educational access for children in rural areas. It has made significant investments in building schools and creating essential educational resources, such as libraries and feeding programs. By supporting students from primary school through to university level, Hope4Malawi creates a cultural hub of learning and support. The organization also integrates e-learning opportunities, allowing students to access a broader range of educational materials.

Hope4Malawi intends to build and provide supplies for 12 classrooms and three libraries before 2029 through a partnership with the Ministry of Education. The organization provides sponsorships and additional support that allow students to attend secondary education who would otherwise not be able to. As a result, enrollment and retention rates have increased, creating a generation equipped with the skills and credentials needed for future success.

The Hunger Project

The Hunger Project is one of the NGOs in Malawi that has been active since 1999. The organization addresses poverty through sustainable agriculture and food security initiatives. Recognizing that food insecurity is a significant contributor to poverty, the organization provides training on modern farming techniques and crop diversification. Utilizing the Epicenter Strategy, this organization mobilizes community members against hunger and poverty until they have become self-reliant.

By promoting community gardens and cooperative farming practices, The Hunger Project empowers local farmers to improve their yield and nutrition. The organization has helped reduce malnutrition in Malawi and has provided economy-boosting initiatives to workers, such as beekeeping. The initiative not only enhances food security for families but also fosters economic empowerment, enabling communities to thrive sustainably.

WaterAid Malawi

Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, and WaterAid Malawi is at the forefront of efforts to improve water and sanitation across the country. Working in 14 towns and cities, WaterAid implements projects that provide clean water and educate communities about hygiene practices. This vital work significantly reduces the spread of waterborne diseases, improving overall health outcomes. This organization intends to provide clean water to the most impoverished communities by 2030 through a sustainable development program.

WaterAid works closely with the country’s Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector to provide innovative technology for new toilet and water collection systems. By ensuring access to clean water, WaterAid not only improves community health but also provides individuals with more time to devote to work or studies.

Concern Worldwide

Concern Worldwide has developed an approach to tackling poverty from multiple angles in Malawi. The organization provides food security initiatives, such as Food Systems for Food Security, prenatal care, and vaccination programs, alongside emergency response efforts during crises such as natural disasters. Concern has implemented agriculture programs that incorporate crop diversification, intercropping and other protective methods that prepare communities for unexpected weather fluctuations.

In a three-year program, Concern helped local farms raise annual harvest intake by 72%, improving the security and nutrition of community youth. By addressing immediate needs while also working on long-term solutions, Concern Worldwide helps build resilience within communities. Its lifestyle-focused approach ensures that families can survive as well as prepare for the future of the next generation.

Overall Impact

The work of these NGOs in Malawi illustrates the diverse and integrated approaches necessary to combat poverty in Malawi. By addressing health, education, agriculture, and water access, they demonstrate that sustainable development requires collaborative efforts that engage local communities. The ongoing commitment of these organizations plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations in Malawi.

– Lauren Sellman

Lauren is based in Rochester Hills, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Feed the Future: What You Need to Know

Feed the FutureFeed the Future, an American initiative led by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), collaborates with the U.S. government, volunteers and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to combat global hunger. The initiative aims to solve one of the greatest challenges of our time through partnerships that focus on tackling the underlying causes of poverty. Furthermore, it supports people to end their dependence on aid and opens up opportunities for future generations.

Feed the Future’s strategies include boosting agricultural growth, improving security and supporting community resilience against natural disasters. It also focuses on guaranteeing proper nutrition, specifically for women and children. Created in 2010 in response to the food crisis of 2007-2008, Feed the Future currently focuses on selected countries such as Ghana, Nepal and Uganda. The organization selects locations based on their level of need, the potential for its programs to grow and the availability of resources.

Global Food Security Strategy

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, 97 million more people have been surviving on $2 a day, leading to the first global increase in extreme poverty in more than 20 years. In response, the U.S. government introduced the Global Food Security Strategy to combat the rise in poverty and ensure that families worldwide have access to food. The Global Food Security Strategy seeks to reduce global poverty, malnutrition and widening inequality through initiatives like Feed the Future. It also aims to achieve a 20% reduction in poverty and reduce stunting in the countries where it operates with assistance from other foreign governments.

In Uganda, the Global Food Security Strategy aligns with the Government of Uganda’s Third National Development Plan. The strategy focuses on boosting household income and improving living standards. From 2012 to 2015, the stunting rate in children younger than 5 in regions where Feed the Future operated dropped by 11%. In Senegal, Feed the Future facilitated $64 million in loans for Senegalese farmers, wholesales and millers. With access to mechanization services, smallholder farmers increased their productivity. As a result, rice production increased by 123% from 2012 to 2018.

Feed the Future Target Country Expansion

In a Feed the Future target country, the U.S. government takes a coordinated approach to plan its investments. This encourages other groups, like donors and local governments, to provide support and funding. In 2022, the U.S. announced it would expand Feed the Future’s reach to eight new countries, bringing the number of countries the program is involved in from 12 to 20. These countries include Rwanda and Tanzania. Feed the Future plans to increase its efforts to reduce food insecurity in the next few years in these nations.

Results and Achievements

The program’s seven-year efforts have lifted approximately 23 million people above the poverty line. Additionally, 3.4 million children are no longer stunted and 5.2 million families are no longer at risk of hunger. The initiative has unlocked $6.2 billion in agricultural financing and developed more than 1,000 innovations. From 2011 to 2022, Feed the Future generated $28 billion in farm sales, aiding farmers.

Moving Forward

As Feed the Future advances in its global reach, it proves that ending hunger is possible. Indeed, this project plays a key role in the effort to alleviate poverty worldwide, aiming to help families in impoverished nations overcome food insecurity. With the significant progress it has made and its extensive global reach, tangible improvements in people’s lives are evident.

– Nouf Hunaiti

Nouf is based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Aid in Kenya: Reducing Malaria and Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

UK Aid in Kenya: Reducing Malaria and Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Kenya, a country on the rise in East Africa, has seen significant economic growth over the past decade, driven by political and economic reforms. Yet, despite these advances, two-thirds of its population still lives in poverty. This staggering level of poverty continues to hold back many communities, limiting access to basic services like health care, education and housing. The battle against malaria remains one of the greatest health challenges these communities face. This disease not only claims lives but also keeps many families trapped in the poverty cycle. United Kingdom (U.K.) Aid in Kenya, through the Global Fund, is helping to address this challenge, reducing the burden of malaria and, in turn, alleviating poverty.

Malaria and Poverty

Malaria is a leading cause of illness and death in Kenya, particularly in rural areas, where access to health care services is limited. Beyond the health toll, malaria places a significant economic burden on families. Frequent bouts of illness reduce household income, as adults are unable to work and children miss school. In communities where families live on less than $2.15 a day, these disruptions reinforce the poverty cycle. Health care costs, such as treatments and hospital visits, often result in further financial strain. However, U.K. Aid Kenya and local NGOs supported by the Global Fund are working to bring malaria under control.

With targeted interventions such as distributing insecticide-treated bed nets and providing access to treatment, malaria transmission can be significantly reduced. By lowering malaria prevalence, communities can improve productivity, reduce health care costs and increase educational opportunities—key factors in breaking the cycle of poverty.

UK Aid in Kenya: Supporting the Global Fund

Global Fund to Fight AIDS is one of the key international efforts in the fight against Tuberculosis and Malaria. The U.K. is one of the largest contributors to the Global Fund, having pledged £1 billion for 2024 to 2026, aimed at combating these diseases globally. In Kenya, the U.K.’s contributions play a crucial role in reducing malaria cases and breaking the cycle of poverty that often accompanies this disease. Through the Global Fund, U.K. aid supports local NGOs such as Amref Health Africa and Population Services Kenya (PS Kenya), which are pivotal in implementing malaria prevention programs.

These organizations distribute millions of insecticide-treated bed nets, provide life-saving treatments and lead educational campaigns to prevent the spread of malaria. With U.K. aid, these efforts have been scaled up in malaria-endemic areas of Kenya, improving both health and economic outcomes for affected communities.

Success Stories

  • Amref Health Africa. Amref Health Africa, one of the largest health development organizations in Kenya, has been at the forefront of fighting malaria in rural areas. Supported by U.K. Aid through the Global Fund, Amref has made significant strides in malaria prevention and treatment. Amref has trained more than 1,591 Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) and 8,500 Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) across 10 malaria-endemic counties, enhancing early diagnosis and treatment of malaria at the household level. In Nandi and Kericho counties, an additional 165 CHEWs and 815 CHVs were trained specifically to improve malaria prevention among pregnant women. These interventions have contributed to significant improvements in malaria management and reduced the disease burden in high-risk areas​. 
  • Population Services Kenya (PS Kenya). PS Kenya, supported by U.K. Aid through the Global Fund, has played a critical role in providing life-saving malaria treatments, particularly in Busia County, a malaria-endemic region in western Kenya. Through community case management, PS Kenya has tested more than 401,000 suspected malaria cases and treated more than 319,700 people with effective treatments such as artemether-lumefantrine in the past year. With 51% of cases managed at the community level by trained Community Health Promoters (CHPs), this intervention has significantly improved access to timely treatment. By focusing on vulnerable populations and enhancing community-based health systems, PS Kenya’s efforts are helping to alleviate the financial strain on families and reduce the incidence of malaria, which in turn contributes to breaking the cycle of poverty in affected regions​.

Looking Forward

The U.K.’s aid support through the Global Fund has had a measurable impact on reducing malaria in Kenya. By funding local NGOs like Amref Health Africa and Population Services Kenya, U.K. aid is helping to reduce malaria transmission, lower health care costs and improve productivity in vulnerable communities. From 2010 to 2020, the prevalence of malaria in Kenya decreased by 49% nationwide, demonstrating the effectiveness and utmost importance of these interventions. Crucially, these health programs are addressing one of the root causes of poverty by reducing the economic strain caused by frequent illness and enabling families to invest in education and productivity. As Kenya continues to grow economically, eliminating malaria could be key to ensuring that all its citizens can thrive and share in the country’s prosperity.

– Safa Musa

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

Photo: Flickr