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Addressing HIV/AIDS in Morocco

HIV/AIDS in MoroccoThe HIV/AIDS epidemic in Morocco has had life-changing consequences for communities all over the world. International leaders have made significant progress over the past 30 years in improving awareness of the disease and accessibility to treatment, but countries must still take substantial action to fully eradicate it. Morocco has taken large strides towards this, launching various campaigns to do so. However, the extreme levels of poverty that the country is facing are forcing its residents into lifestyles that intensify their risk of contracting the disease, while the government’s lack of economic stability means prevention and treatment schemes are difficult to enact. Without U.S. support, the country lacks many resources which would be indispensable to its fight against HIV/AIDS in Morocco.

The Prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Morocco

As of 2024, the number of people living with HIV in Morocco stands at 23,000. About 5.9% of HIV/AIDS cases are men who engage in sexual relationships with other men (MSM), 7.1% are drug users and 2.3% are sex workers. The socio-political climate of Morocco still subjects these populations to extreme levels of discrimination, which often prevents them from seeking treatment. Additionally, 9% of Morocco’s population live currently in poverty. These difficult conditions, alongside the prevalence of sex tourism and human trafficking, mean there are an estimated 4.3 million sex workers living in Morocco, 2.3% of whom (knowingly) suffer from HIV.

The prevalence of drug users is also intertwined with national poverty, with economic stress forcing many to turn to substance abuse as a form of relief. The country’s lack of free health care also stands as a barrier to impoverished individuals accessing diagnoses and treatment, further increasing the risk of infection for those affected. Offering schemes to help alleviate the pressure of national poverty may prevent those it affects from turning to high-risk modes of employment and dangerous drug use, while making treatment accessible to those unable to afford healthcare bills. 

Breaking Down the Stigma

In comparison to other Middle Eastern and North African countries, the rate of HIV/AIDS among the population is relatively low. This is due to Morocco’s unmatched ability in implementing testing, diagnoses and treatment programs within its vulnerable communities. 

Thanks to the introduction of self-testing methods, the population now have access to a more discreet method of diagnosis. However, hospitals must still confirm tests offering positive results, limiting their anonymity and leading to a relatively low use rate.

Morocco’s ban on homosexuality, sex work and injection drugs, alongside general societal disapproval, means that many people who engage in these activities do not attempt to seek treatment for HIV/AIDS. 

In 2024 at the Taragalte Festival, Moroccan artist OUM announced that she would be ascending to the role of National Goodwill Ambassador in Morocco for UNAIDS. As a popular artist and social influencer, OUM’s work in spreading awareness and encouraging education about HIV prevention will be vital in breaking down the intense stigma surrounding the illness. UNAIDS foresaw that OUM’s efforts in erasing negative narratives via her public influence would improve access to HIV/AIDS preventative knowledge, diagnoses and treatment, particularly among high-risk communities in Morocco.

The US’s Impact

The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a campaign aimed at controlling the international HIV/AIDS epidemic, does not currently practice in Morocco. This means the country does not have access to U.S. funded resources that could have a significant impact on HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment and, due to the nation’s lower economic status, could not be financed by only their government. PEPFAR supports communities most vulnerable to the illness and with high-risk populations making up the majority of diagnoses in Morocco, the U.S. Department of State’s assistance could offer profound assistance in curbing the epidemic where it is most rife. 

HIV/AIDS in Morocco is preventable. Governmental strategies to combat the disease and its often poverty-rooted causes are already having a profound impact on decreasing its prevalence in the country. However, the epidemic requires further action to achieve total eradication. Reducing societal stigma is an important aspect of making treatment more accessible, but assisting those in poverty, through Moroccan and U.S. funded support, to obtain affordable healthcare schemes and engage in lower-risk lifestyles is by far the most crucial method of ending HIV/AIDS in Morocco for good.

– Amabel Smith

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

Photo: Unsplash

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USAID Programs in Cameroon

USAID Programs in CameroonCameroon evolved into one of Africa’s most prosperous nations following its triumphant independence in 1960; however, significant GDP reductions plunged the country into a 10-year recession. While economic recovery progressed in the early 2000s, Cameroon’s poverty reduction rates stagnated, where in 2022, a significant portion of the population lived on just $2.15 per day. The United States, a global leader in humanitarian assistance, responds to such inequity with relief initiatives from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Today, USAID programs in Cameroon actively improve health, maintain security and governance and ensure economic development for more than 27 million Cameroonians. 

Health Programs

Health crises remain the greatest threat to Cameroon, where communicable diseases like malaria, tuberculosis and HIV dominate the West African region’s total morbidity and death rates.

This regressive health trend eventually necessitated USAID programs in Cameroon that lowered health care costs, secured basic access and increased productivity and wages. 

The Global Health Supply Chain Program – Procurement and Supply Management (GHSC-PSM) is a USAID-sponsored initiative heightening the availability and accessibility of essential medicines and commodities by reinforcing the pharmaceutical supply network. GHSC-PSM subsidiaries like the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) deliver more than 8 million malaria preventive treatments annually. Additionally, the Last Mile Delivery (LMD) program of 2022 guaranteed regular deliveries of HIV commodities by developing optimized routes to “all 320 facilities across all 10 Cameroon regions.” From 2020 to 2021, the LMD program increased the health facility order submission rate by 76%.

Furthermore, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) supports Cameroon’s efforts toward universal health coverage (UHC), ensuring unimpeded access to essential health services, especially for those living with HIV. PEPFAR initiatives and the UHC program help alleviate up to 70% of health care costs for Cameroonians, who statistically cannot afford direct payments. Among several key accomplishments, the UHC program, as of 2024, insures more than 2.5 million individuals in Cameroon.

Security and Governance Programs

Security is a primary concern for USAID and Cameroon, as the ongoing Anglophone-Francophone disputes continue dividing the Northwest and Southwest regions. Since 2016, the conflict has disproportionately affected women and children, resulting in at least 6,500 deaths. Violence is often rooted in extreme poverty in these rural areas, where disagreements erupt between Cameroon security forces and armed separatists jockeying over access to scarce government resources. As both sides vie for political power, students, teachers and humanitarian workers face invasions, human rights violations and restricted access to educational and health care services. The Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect revealed that 1.8 million Cameroonians in 2025—both Francophone and Anglophone—lack humanitarian assistance, with approximately 583,000 internally displaced individuals.

Ultimately, USAID programs in Cameroon work to empower communities by circumventing violent, poverty-inducing extremism. The Cameroon Peace Promotion Project is a USAID-funded initiative dedicated to strengthening communities by working with radio stations to deter extremist rhetoric and encourage community engagement and peace throughout Cameroon. The CPP Project strengthens Cameroon’s governance over regional terrorist organizations, assists maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, contributes to regional stability and promotes respect for education, democratization and Cameroonian human rights. In 2021 alone, more than 10 radio stations reached approximately 2.5 million listeners.

Economic Development Programs

Initially estimated at a 4% increase, 2023 revealed decelerated GDP in Cameroon, falling to 3.3% from 3.6% due to weak economic infrastructure, volatile inflation and persistent internal conflicts delaying the region’s financially gainful sectors. Prioritizing potential profitability, USAID programs in Cameroon restructure the country’s financial orientation to increase revenue, ensure economic safety and promote economic expansion: 

  • Feed the Future (FTF): Feed the Future is a USAID-led initiative prioritizing agricultural and research development for increased productivity, agriculture optimization and enhanced land tenure and market accessibility. In Cameroon, agricultural transformation helps fiscally support more than two-thirds of the entire population.
  • Prosper Africa: Prosper Africa is a U.S.-led initiative facilitating trade and investment between U.S. businesses and African countries, focusing on digital, agribusiness and renewable energy sectors. Prosper Africa supports projects in Cameroon that offer higher wages, new jobs and clean energy while preserving business relationships with the U.S. worth $22 billion.
  • Power Africa Off-Grid Program (PAOP): This program is a USAID electrification expansion program providing technical assistance and targeted grant funding to private sector power generating companies. Despite having plentiful resources, Cameroon faces frequent electricity outages due to dated infrastructure. However, with PAOP, Cameroon could observe significant energy sector advancements while presenting opportunities for U.S. companies to capitalize on the prevalent hydropower in the region, which remains untapped at just 4%.

Concluding Thoughts

Founded in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, USAID catapulted American influence and foreign policy globally. However, on March 10, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio cut 83% of funding for USAID, effectively slashing humanitarian assistance to 160 countries and regions. Without USAID programs in Cameroon, this could weaken governance, increase conflict geography and social inequities and compromise economic and health security. While known as “Africa in miniature,” Cameroon could largely depend on U.S. competitors for foreign aid, should the Trump administration continue dismantling USAID — a vital bridge to prosperity for many impoverished nations.

– Marcus Villagomez

Marcus is based in Dallas, TX, USA and focuses on Business and Good News The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Foreign Aid to South Africa

Foreign Aid to South AfricaForeign aid to South Africa has been crucial in sustaining its people for over two decades. South Africa is a country that faces a multitude of issues that hinder its way of life. Disease, government corruption and lack of infrastructure are but some problems that the people of South Africa face. The country has an unemployment rate of 32.1%, one of the highest nations with AIDS at 13.9% of the population, and more than 20 million facing food poverty or hunger daily. The requirement for foreign aid is vital in ensuring the people receive the aid that they desperately need whether it be medical aid or food aid. 

Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom and European Union are core donors in helping South Africa tackle their problems. Below are some examples of foreign aid programs.

Foreign Aid From the US

Out of all the countries involved in foreign aid, the U.S. has been the largest donor of foreign aid to South Africa, giving more than $527 million in ODA. The United States has been a large donor for combating diseases in South Africa through its USAID programs, such as PEPFAR. PEPFAR has actively tackled the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the country, saving an estimated 7.7 million lives in South Africa and giving 5.9 million access to antiretroviral treatment. The U.S. has further approved more than $450 million into PEPFAR for South Africa and has seen more than $8 billion invested over two decades. 

Additionally, ANOVA APACE, a USAID funding program that addresses health epidemics in South Africa, has received more than $36.5 million. While it works to address HIV/AIDS, it also works to combat tuberculosis outbreaks in South Africa as South Africa is one of the top eight countries still affected by the disease. In ANOVA’s first year, it treated 62% of people living with HIV and 54% were virally suppressed. As more than 13% of the population live with HIV/AIDS, this has been the cornerstone to tackling the epidemic.

Foreign Aid From the UK

The United Kingdom has been one of the largest donors of foreign aid to South Africa. It has provided £19 million ODA to South Africa, which goes towards vital infrastructure projects and job creation. Most notable is the Energy Transition Support program that is moving South Africa from fossil fuel energy to more renewable sources, with the aim of stimulating the economy and energy facilities. The U.K. has pledged £2.4 million to finance the sectors involved.

Additionally, the U.K. massively funds democratic initiatives. In the 2023 election period, the U.K. gave funding to ensure that South Africa held a democratic and fair election. The programs ensured that South Africa’s pre- and post-election voting and results were fair, as well as improved the political research going into the candidates and government statistics.

Foreign Aid From the EU

The European Union has established multiple programs in South Africa across a plethora of areas. The IIPSA has been crucial in building & creating new infrastructure to harbor economic growth. From building roads, schools or other institutions, the organization has grown both the job market and the livelihoods of everyday people. EU initiatives have created more than 1 million jobs since 2020 and a massive 62% are women employees.

Erasmus+ has helped improve the education system for South African universities. It allows foreign students from Europe to go and learn in South Africa, and vice versa, improving not only the flexibility of student exchange programs, but builds on improving higher education.

Moreover, the EU has helped South Africa in SME fundings. These investments reported more than 2,000 jobs created for South Africans, in much needed departments such as ICT, green economy and agriculture. More than 160,000 SMEs have benefitted from these foreign aid improvements.

Outcomes

The goals of these initiatives was to help improve the lives of South Africans and it has been a resounding success. Foreign aid to South Africa from these key donors has helped stimulate its economy, healthcare system and governmental programs and institutions. 

Foreign aid has helped with job creation, improved job markets, better wages, less death from disease and economic improvement. These are the areas most affected by foreign aid to South Africa, and the continuing support from the U.K. and E.U. will only benefit the country further. 

However, with the cutting of current USAID funding packages, South Africa will have to look elsewhere for massive chunks of its funding. As the U.S. propped up the majority of the health industry in South Africa, foreign aid must come from more international organizations to fulfil its needs, but there currently are no solutions to confront the current situation.

Furthermore, the foreign aid sent to South Africa does not always target poverty, and more funding and new strategies will be needed to more directly impact those facing poverty in South Africa. While there has been noticeable improvements to societal struggle, foreign aid to South Africa has not impacted the 40% that still live below the poverty line.

– Joel Raymer

Joel is based in Derby, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fighting HIV in Lesotho

hiv in lesothoLesotho, a small country in southern Africa, is making notable progress in tackling HIV and addressing the poverty it creates. With an HIV prevalence rate of approximately 24.6% among adults aged 15-49, Lesotho faces one of the highest infection rates globally. This epidemic continues to impact the country’s economic and social development. Through innovative programs and global partnerships, Lesotho shows that progress is achievable and impactful.

Universal HIV Treatment: Lesotho’s Test and Start Policy

In April 2016, Lesotho became the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to implement the “Test and Start” policy, which offers antiretroviral therapy (ART) to all HIV-positive individuals regardless of their CD4 count. This approach ensures early intervention, preventing the virus from progressing and reducing transmission rates. As of 2020, approximately 273,000 adults living with HIV in Lesotho were receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), representing about 84% of the total HIV-positive adult population. Community-based testing initiatives have also played a key role. These programs bring services to rural areas through mobile clinics and health workers, enabling more individuals to know their HIV status and connect with treatment. Such efforts are vital in addressing HIV in Lesotho.

Advancing HIV Care Through Global Partnerships

International partnerships and government initiatives have significantly contributed to Lesotho’s HIV response. For the fiscal year 2024/2025, the Government of Lesotho allocated 233 million Maloti (approximately $15 million) for antiretroviral therapy (ART) procurement, demonstrating its commitment to a sustainable HIV response.

In 2022, PEPFAR contributed $75 million to support Lesotho’s HIV/AIDS response. This funding has been crucial in providing resources for HIV testing, prevention, and treatment, helping the country make significant progress toward achieving its UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets

These combined efforts, along with support from organizations like the Global Fund, have helped Lesotho progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. By 2020, 94% of people living with HIV in Lesotho knew their status. Additionally, 91% were receiving treatment, and 98% of those on treatment achieved viral suppression.

Using Technology to Improve HIV Care

Lesotho’s use of technology is revolutionizing HIV care and improving treatment outcomes. Electronic medical records (EMRs), implemented across healthcare facilities, improve patient tracking and continuity of care. For instance, HIV-positive pregnant women benefit from care recorded in EMRs linked to national health systems, ensuring more efficient service delivery.

Mobile health (mHealth) interventions, such as text message reminders, have also improved treatment adherence. A study in Lesotho found that patients receiving SMS reminders for medications and appointments demonstrated a 20% increase in adherence rates.

Digital tools have further enhanced public education campaigns, raising awareness about HIV prevention and reducing stigma. Mobile platforms ensure critical information reaches even the most remote communities.

Empowering Lives Through Comprehensive Care

Lesotho’s HIV programs are not limited to medical care—they also address the economic and social impacts of the epidemic. Many ART clinics now provide additional services, including food assistance and vocational training. These initiatives ensure patients remain healthy and economically active, reducing the cycle of poverty linked to HIV in Lesotho.

By addressing broader community needs, these programs empower individuals to lead productive lives and strengthen local economies. In rural areas, access to healthcare and economic support has helped families remain stable despite the challenges of living with HIV.

A Model for Global Progress

Lesotho’s progress provides a powerful example of how innovation and partnerships can transform a nation. By prioritizing health and integrating it with poverty reduction efforts, Lesotho demonstrates what can be achieved through collective action and sustained investment.

With continued collaboration and funding, Lesotho’s success story can serve as a model for other developing nations facing similar challenges. Indeed, as the global fight against HIV continues, HIV in Lesotho stands as a testament to the power of progress in overcoming an epidemic and its broader impacts on poverty.

– Fiza Meeraj

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Global Health as a Political Priority

Global HealthGlobal health refers to the health of populations worldwide, emphasizing that health issues transcend national boundaries. Global health is bound to economic stability and international security while focusing on health equity for all. Addressing health disparities within nations, mainly focusing on low-income countries where access to health care can be challenging, is also an integral part of global health initiatives. Recent events like COVID-19 and Ebola outbreaks demonstrate that health care and robust health systems are vital for global resilience and growth. Developing proper health systems ensures that countries can prevent and respond to health crises and other humanitarian issues.

Why Is Global Health Care a Political Priority?

Global health is more than a humanitarian concern. It is a critical component of political stability, economic resilience and international security. The enforcement of the World Health Organisation (WHO), as well as frameworks and initiatives like the International Health Regulations (IHR) and the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA), ensures that nations are capable of responding, mediating and detecting health threats efficiently.

Cooperative efforts between health nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), intergovernmental organizations (IGOs), governments and law enforcement have proven successful in dealing with global breakouts like COVID-19. Simply put, global health care is a priority because:

  1. World health promotes international security.
  2. Strengthening health systems reduces disease burdens and increases work and economic disruptions.
  3. Health care is a powerful driver of innovation, therefore promoting new scientific advancements.
  4. Global health initiatives address moral responsibility and equality.

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPIE), launched in 1988, aimed to prevent any child worldwide from being paralyzed by poliovirus. As a result, polio has decreased by 99.9% globally. The GPIE is a public-private partnership led by six partners and national governments. According to GPIE, an estimated 20 million people today would have been paralyzed; now, the risk of contracting polio is extremely low. The GPIE continues addressing challenges like reaching children in conflict zones and vaccine hesitancy.

AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)

Since the PEPFAR initiative started in 2003, more than 25 million lives have been saved. Prior to 2003, an HIV diagnosis was considered a death sentence for many across the globe. PEPFAR works with partner countries to control and prevent the spread of AIDS and HIV. PEPFAR focuses on providing life-saving antiretroviral treatment (ART), prevention programs and support for individuals and communities affected by HIV/AIDS, particularly in low-resource settings.

GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance

Established in 2000, Gavi aimed to save lives, reduce poverty and protect the population from pandemics. This vaccine alliance has immunized more than 1.1 billion children in 78 countries. GAVI works with governments and organizations to reduce vaccine costs and ensure equitable distribution.

COVAX

COVAX was a multilateral effort co-led by GAVI, WHO, UNICEF and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) to develop the COVID-19 vaccine. Launched in 2020 in response to the pandemic, COVAX worked to manufacture and secure vaccines guaranteed for global use. Its mission was to ensure that all countries, regardless of economic status, can protect their population, especially the most vulnerable. By 2023, COVAX had delivered millions of vaccine doses to countries worldwide, reducing global health inequities and aiding in the fight against the global pandemic.

The Partnership for a Lead-Free Future

Launched by UNICEF and USAID, this initiative is dedicated to tackling lead exposure in low-income countries. According to USAID, more than half a billion children in the world have a percentage of lead in their blood. Key efforts include phasing out lead in products like paint, batteries and fuel while also raising awareness about lead hazards. Therefore, by 2040, the partnership has committed to creating a lead-free future for all the world’s children. This initiative aims to create a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

Global Alliance for Hunger and Poverty

Proposed by Brasil’s G20 presidency, this initiative is focused on reducing poverty and eliminating hunger worldwide. The alliance emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices, access to nutritious food and innovative financing mechanisms to support vulnerable populations. Through collaboration with IGOs and governments, the initiative aims to address global inequalities, create flourishing livelihoods and strengthen food security. The official launch of the Global Alliance was during the G20 Leaders Summit in November 2024 and has gained the support of more than 80 countries.

Conclusion

Making global health a political priority is necessary for creating a resilient, equitable and secure world. From the integration of health and security to international funding collaborations, governments can adopt strategies that integrate health with security, promoting prosperity and stability.

– Gufran Elhrari

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

Photo: Flickr

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HIV/AIDs in Indonesia

HIV/AIDs in Indonesia Nearly 39.9 million people are currently living with HIV/AIDs today. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks cells that protect the body from infections, leading to increased vulnerability to infections and diseases within the human body. HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDs), which often signifies a highly impaired immune system and can heavily reduce the predicted lifespan. While there is no standalone procedure for HIV, patients can receive antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is an ongoing treatment that uses viral suppression to decrease the amount of HIV in the blood. Some medicines can help prevent people from contracting HIV before a certain activity or experience (sex, drugs, etc.). However, without testing opportunities, it is nearly impossible to detect the presence of HIV, which is why having structured programs and opportunities for testing and treatment is crucial to our livelihoods

HIV/AIDs in Indonesia: Barriers

In 2023, 570,000 people were living with HIV/AIDs in Indonesia. Indonesia is the fifth most vulnerable (to HIV/AIDs) country in Asia. The main causes of HIV/AIDs transmission in Indonesia are unprotected sexual activities, unsanitary drug injection and communal needle use. The leading cause is sexual transmission, which accounts for nearly 89% of all cases. Not enough information is available among the Indonesian population, leading to an absolute lack of awareness.

Currently, the largest barrier regarding HIV/AIDs treatment in Indonesia is financial access to health care. Most Indonesians are unaware of their status (regarding the virus) and do not have access to testing or cannot afford treatment. Additionally, there is the social fear of rejection that many living with HIV/AIDs face. Having HIV/AIDs, though out of people’s control, often leads to social rejection and distancing. People may fear having ties cut between them and their family or friends, disallowing them from sharing their status and getting help.

Treatment of HIV/AIDs in Indonesia

As of February 2024, nearly 130,000 people are receiving ARP therapy in Indonesia, which is a great start, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. With the help of UNAIDS, Indonesia is now much more intensive on HIV testing (so people living with HIV/AIDs are aware of their status and can get help) and treating those with HIV as well. Additionally, the government is attempting to put HIV or STI services into health benefits packages, so more people can access them, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. The Indonesian Government is also taking the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines much more seriously and attempting to implement them in more facets of the country.

According to the 2024 Frontiers Article, Indonesia is also actively trying to involve private health care providers and diversify treatment to increase its outreach.

IAC and AHF

Based in Jakarta, the Indonesian AIDs Coalition (IAC) primarily helps communities and locals. It has specifically worked on the financial aspects of treatment (increasing accessibility) and allowing for a more inclusive and accepting space for those living with HIV/AIDs in Indonesia, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. The IAC holds the Global Fund Principal Recipient status and used the Global Fund to Fight AIDs, Tuberculosis and Malaria’s grant for HIV in Indonesia.

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has been conducting HIV testing to help people figure out their status. It helps with treatment, specifically by offering free ARV drugs, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. AHF has also begun focusing on “housing, food security, and pandemic response and preparedness” as well.

LAP, SWING and UNAIDS

One Child One Life program by Lentera Anak Pelangi (LAP) primarily focuses on psychological support for adolescents and children. This program specifically offers mental support along with educating younger people who have HIV/AIDs, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. By providing an environment of people with similar circumstances, LAP can provide solidarity to children with HIV and build their confidence. The program is especially good at helping those with HIV/AIDs return to school and continue their normal lives.

Service Workers in Group Foundation (SWING) focuses on working with female sex workers. In the process, the group tries to highlight the dangers of HIV/AIDs and how to protect themselves and others from the disease,  according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. Often, sex workers are not able to access health clinics (due to working hours and schedule), though they need to check their health and stay in good condition. Considering that their job provides many opportunities for contraction of diseases (such as HIV/AIDs), getting tested is incredibly important.

Along with the US Government, UNAIDS has partnered with the Indonesian Government to partake in PEFPAR, to help Indonesia reach its HIV targets and improve treatment. One of UNAIDS’s many focuses is eradicating stigma or discrimination towards those living with HIV, and fostering a more accepting community, according to its website.

Overall, there is so much being done to increase HIV testing, improve treatment, and address and eliminate stigma around HIV in Indonesia. With these groups working together and in tandem with the Indonesian government, Indonesia is getting closer and closer to reaching its goal of HIV eradication!

– Lakshya Anand

Lakshya is based in Bellevue, Washington, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Understanding and Addressing Gendered Poverty in Mozambique

Gendered Poverty in MozambiqueIn the southeast African nation of Mozambique, around 63% of the population lived in poverty in 2020, surviving on less than $1.90/day. Gender inequality further exacerbates this phenomenon – Mozambique ranks 139th out of 159 countries on the UNDP Gender Inequality Index. Gendered poverty in Mozambique takes the form of women having fewer educational and employment opportunities and being confined to a traditional role as mothers. While the government has fought this issue, much more is necessary to bring gender equality and economic prosperity to Mozambicans.

The Current State of Gendered Poverty

Most Mozambican women are in employment, but they work primarily in the informal sector for meagre wages. For example, in agriculture, the nation’s largest industry, 52.9% of employees in rural areas are women.

Most women engage in agriculture to provide for their families, but they are still mostly in traditional roles while men pursue more private sector jobs and economic mobility. With COVID-19 disproportionately affecting young women by halting access to education, employment, and food, they have since become even more disposed to early marriage and living in poverty compared to Mozambican men.

The nation’s government has attempted to combat gendered poverty in Mozambique. For example, a 2019 law banned the marriage of girls under the age of 18 to promote female autonomy and engagement with the economy rather than becoming mothers at too young of an age.

Furthermore, the Family Law and Law Against Domestic Violence have protected women’s rights in marriage and the family, such as inheritance, divorce, and personal rights.

Internationally, the government of Mozambique has signaled its intentions to protect women’s individual and family rights by adopting The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women the Optional Protocol to the African Charter on Human Rights and Peoples‟ Rights and the Rights of Women.

Although this emphasis on gender equality has seen positive effects like near-equal levels of female representation in low-level government positions, government policies have not done nearly enough to bring about gender equality as a tool for overcoming poverty.

International Efforts

Instead, foreign assistance and international organizations have stepped up to reinforce gender equality efforts. For instance, the United States Agency for International Development has implemented several programs targeting impoverished women in Mozambique. Working with the Mozambican government, USAID has introduced female farmers to more nutritious crop varieties and seeds while sharing efficient agricultural strategies and technology to provide for a growing population, according to its website.

USAID has also enforced the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) in Mozambique, reducing HIV rates in the country and providing safe testing and medical equipment to Mozambicans with HIV/AIDS, primarily women.

Additionally, USAID’s Vamos Ler! Program promotes higher rates of girls’ attendance in school through a curriculum that encourages role models of both genders, while also ensuring that students have the hygiene they need to remain enrolled in school, according to its website.

Another effort that recognizes the role of education in eradicating poverty is the World Bank-funded “Eu Sou Capaz” program, which gives both school uniforms and bicycles to young girls in school as an incentive for education and provides skills training to girls who have already completed schooling, according to World Bank.

The initiative has seen a narrowing in the educational gender gap and intends to expand its resources to cover more young Mozambicans in the coming years.

Looking Forward

These efforts toward gender equality are the first step in remedying gendered poverty in Mozambique. With decreased AIDS and maternal deaths and increased education and employment opportunities, Mozambican women will be able to step outside the home and become integral members of their developing nation’s economy. However, these programs cannot assert their full force without changing cultural views in Mozambique. Currently, society remains dominated by men in practice and in the minds of Mozambicans who perceive traditional family structures as the nation’s backbone.

A combined approach of national, international and cultural changes emphasizing a new role for women could help uplift Mozambique from extreme poverty.

– Cole Zickwolff

Cole is based in Carlsbad, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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USAID Programs in Eswatini

USAID Programs in EswatiniEswatini, due to its geographical location, relies on South Africa for the majority of its trade, with 65% of its exports and 75% of its imports going to South Africa, meaning that this is a large contributor to Eswatini’s economy. Despite the GDP per capita in Eswatini remaining relatively high, standing at $3,823 in 2023, nearly 70% of the population lives in poverty, with diseases such as HIV and AIDS having a devastating impact on citizens. With education quality being insufficient, alongside access to education, many do not receive an education that will prepare them for the workplace.

USAID Programs in Eswatini

Whilst there are several USAID programs in Eswatini, most of its work in Eswatini, and Southern Africa as a whole has been a part of the President’s Emergency Plan for HIV/AIDs Relief (PEPFAR), which works to control the HIV/AIDS pandemic in at least 50 countries across the world. The project has four main priorities within its operation: making progress towards HIV/AIDS control in more than 50 countries across the world, helping partner countries in spending every dollar they receive on creating data-driven policies, giving access to support to the populations that the by HIV/AIDs impacts the most and providing them with innovative solutions that are appropriate to their situations while utilizing partnerships in several different sectors to increase their impact.

After partnering with USAID and PEPFAR in 2007, Eswatini’s first Swaziland HIV Incidence Measurement Survey (SHIMS) in 2011 proved HIV rates in Eswatini were relatively high. Only less than 62% of the infected population aged between 18 and 49 knew their status, and out of those, only 73.1% were undergoing treatment and were virally suppressed. However, after SHIMS3 in 2021, these figures had improved significantly, with 93.7% of the population living with HIV knowing their status, and of this, 96.2% were undergoing treatment

DREAMS

USAID introduced the Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored and Safe (DREAMS) program in Eswatini with help from PEPFAR in 2015, to help teenage girls and young women by addressing factors that make them susceptible to HIV/AIDS. The program offers services such as access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (a drug that can prevent the acquisition of HIV), education subsidies and wider access to HIV screening, testing and counselling. In Eswatini, young girls also have access to business mentorship with Cabrini Ministries, as youth unemployment currently stands at 58%, and this mentorship provides young girls with employment opportunities in a social climate where job opportunities for women are sparse.

In 2024, PEPFAR announced that it is looking to roll out DREAMS NextGen, in partnership with USAID, which will aim to take a specific approach for the situation in each country, by expanding the services already in place and specific services for women in each partner country. This USAID program in Eswatini is the next step within the DREAMS program, which aims to create “supportive environments” for teenage girls and young women, with aims including strengthening families with social protection with subsidized education costs and parent and caregiver programs and mobilizing local communities to promote change through a roll-out of school and community HIV and violence awareness and prevention.

The Future

It is clear that with the help of USAID programs in Eswatini and schemes such as the PEPFAR, the country will be able to sustainably develop beyond USAID programs and control the HIV/AIDs pandemic. With further support from both of these organizations, the people of Eswatini will be able to prosper, with access to things like better and subsidized education that will better prepare young people for the workplace and better healthcare to improve their quality of life.

– Freyja Stone

Freyja is based in Manchester, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How Political Polarization Affects Foreign Aid 

How Political Polarization Affects Foreign Aid 
Political polarization refers to the divergence of political attitudes toward ideological extremes. In simple terms, people are becoming more divided in their views and tending more toward far-right or far-left views, creating vast ideological distances between opposing political individuals. This results in overall less agreement among those of differing political beliefs. However, this may not be the only result of increasing polarization.

Consequently, viewpoints are increasingly becoming more singular, allowing prevalent issues in society to be turned monochrome. This has especially been exacerbated in political discourse surrounding issues with a strong moral component, which cannot be quantified by numbers or data. For example, the issue of foreign aid could be considered to have a high level of subjectivity, as there is no correct answer to how much foreign assistance ‘should’ be provided.

The Impact on Global Poverty

Studies have previously shown that high levels of political polarization can lead to a delay in the legislative process and that a divided government can critically slow the policymaking process. Research has uncovered how polarization can delay the legislative process by “60 days, on average,” a significant duration of time for which many issues cannot wait.

A delay in the legislative process will inevitably hinder decisions made regarding U.S. public policy, including foreign policy and aid measures. Furthermore, polarization can impact policy on an international scale, affecting international cooperation. This could be detrimental to recipient countries, leading to the neglect of those who are most in need.

Poverty Reduction Abroad, Impacts at Home

Addressing global poverty has benefits for domestic donors such as the U.S., including improvements to the economy, job creation and reinforcing national security. Reductions in global poverty mean that, on aggregate, fewer people will be living below the poverty line. Thus, their overall disposable income will be higher. Higher demand accompanies higher incomes. Therefore, consumption is likely to increase, which can increase global demand. Domestic markets will be able to reap the benefits of this increased demand, and additional job creation may occur. This can generate an incentive for addressing global poverty.

Fostering international relationships is yet another benefit of foreign aid. Providing assistance to other nations encourages international cooperation and may be a preventative measure against future conflict. National security grows stronger as alliances between nations are fostered. This provides another incentive for foreign aid.

Foreign aid given by the U.S. has already made a massive impact on global poverty reduction efforts. For example, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a program tackling HIV in Africa, prevented many deaths that would have likely otherwise occurred due to the disease’s high mortality rates. Other aid programs have included alleviating famine in India, which, in addition to helping the Indian population, also spurred development in the agricultural industry. This resulted in better production techniques and higher yields. The military aid provided to many South American countries from the 1980s has accelerated the clamp-down on illegal substances, both for the U.S. and other nations, decreasing the global supply of drugs. Foreign aid plays a critical role in combating poverty, and, as demonstrated, has beneficial effects for all.

Individual Action

While the U.S. is numerically the largest contributor to overseas aid, when taking into account the per capita figure, the U.S. ranks significantly lower than other countries overall. Considering the vast size and GDP of the U.S., more could certainly be done in terms of providing foreign assistance.

Now more than ever, individual action is key in expediting the legislative process. Putting pressure on political leaders can be done in different forms, through emailing, calling, writing letters and much more. This is critical in obliging leaders to put foreign poverty reduction at the forefront of their agenda, and overcoming the delay created by intensifying polarization, in order to achieve a successful eradication of global poverty.

Solutions to Polarization

While polarization is a very real and worsening issue, it is more of a psychological phenomenon than a concrete issue. This makes any form of solution difficult to enact. Reducing prejudice and intolerance between different groups is key to becoming more open-minded. This can be facilitated through encouraging more contact and discussion between opposing groups. Encouraging open debate and analyzing alternative perspectives is helpful in avoiding polarization. This will ultimately be the key to mitigating the legislative time delays and other negative impacts of political polarization.

– Hannah Bugeja
Photo: Flickr

HIV/AIDS in Namibia

HIV/AIDS in NamibiaNamibia has one of the highest infection rates of HIV/AIDS in the world. HIV/AIDS in Namibia has been on the decline since 2000, but in 2021, the country still ranked fourth in the world based on infection rate, with 11% of adults aged 15-49 living with HIV. Although this is an improvement over the country’s 14.1% infection rate as of 2000, the country is working to lower the current rate. The Namibian government works in tandem with local organizations to reduce infection rates across the country.

PEPFAR in Namibia

PEPFAR is a United States (U.S.) initiative that aims to address HIV/AIDS internationally and is now the largest commitment by any nation to address a single disease in history. According to the U.S. Embassy in Namibia, PEPFAR has contributed nearly $1.1 billion toward reducing HIV/AIDS in Namibia since the program’s inception in 2003. The U.S. works with Namibia to identify people living with HIV/AIDS and ensure they are receiving medical care, preventing new infections and caring for vulnerable people afflicted with HIV/AIDS. PEPFAR Namibia works more closely with the Namibian government, identifying high-volume areas of infection and decentralizing services to spread treatment further.

PEPFAR’s primary goal in Namibia is to achieve the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets, which means 90% of people living with HIV know their status, 90% of those diagnosed receive treatment and 90% of those receiving medical care maintain a suppressed viral load.

ART Treatment and C-BART Sites

In an effort to reach the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets, the Namibian government has implemented ART treatment and C-BART sites, both of which have been successful. ART stands for antiretroviral therapy, which is an HIV treatment that involves taking a combination of HIV medicines every day to reduce an HIV-positive person’s viral load. C-BART sites are decentralized sites that bring ART treatments to peoples’ homes in rural parts of Namibia.

ART treatment is distributed on a “Treat All” basis, meaning that anyone who tests positive for HIV is automatically recommended for the treatment, no matter their circumstances. This “Treat All” initiative, along with the wide implementation of ART treatment through C-BARTs, has been very successful in reducing HIV/AIDS in Namibia, helping PEPFAR complete two out of the three “90s” in the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets. The C-BART plans were especially successful, assisting in the destigmatization of HIV/AIDS in local communities because of the facilities’ community ownership.

Project HOPE

Project HOPE is an international global health and humanitarian aid nonprofit that aims to reduce HIV/AIDS in Namibia and around the world. The organization’s Namibia chapter is one of the largest nonprofits working against HIV/AIDS in Namibia and focuses on creating small-scale HIV/AIDS programs across the country. Since its inception, it has reached more than 32,000 adolescent girls and young women with its DREAMS program, which encourages women to focus on a future free of HIV. Project HOPE has also put more than 13,000 young women on PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, an HIV-preventative treatment).

Looking Ahead

Since 2000, Namibia has made tremendous progress in mitigating its HIV/AIDS crisis. By working with other governmental organizations, community health centers and nonprofit organizations, Namibia has reduced the stigma around HIV and spread treatment for the disease to the most rural areas of the country. Compared to the past, this continued increase in testing and treatment has made Namibia a much safer place to live for HIV-positive people.

– Aidan Johnstone
Photo: Flickr