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Prevention Strategies: Malaria in Africa

Fighting Malaria: Prevention Strategies in AfricaMalaria remains a major global health concern, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) recorded 263 million cases and 597,000 deaths from the disease. More than 95% of all infections occurred in Africa, underscoring the urgent need for scalable, long-term prevention strategies. Despite challenges, innovative approaches are helping reduce malaria rates and protect vulnerable communities from both illness and poverty.

Geographic Burden and Progress

Countries near the equator, such as Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and Mozambique, face the highest malaria burden. Nigeria alone recorded about 68 million infections. However, prevention efforts across the continent have prevented an estimated 2.2 billion cases and 12.7 million deaths globally, with most of those malaria cases projected to occur in Africa. Some countries have made significant progress. In Rwanda, for example, malaria cases dropped from 4.9 million in 2019 to 749,000 in 2023. Rwanda’s success stems from its focus on high-risk areas, expanded access to free treatment for adults and vaccination programs for children.

Poverty and Risk Factors

Beyond humid weather conditions, poverty plays a major role in malaria transmission. In Nigeria, many families lack access to mosquito nets, insect repellents or screened housing. Poor working conditions also increase exposure. More than 60% of Nigerians work in agriculture and another 9% in trade, professions that require early morning and evening hours outdoors when mosquitoes are most active. Educational barriers further exacerbate the problem. People without formal schooling are less likely to understand malaria transmission or prevention, making them more vulnerable. If left unchecked, malaria disrupts livelihoods, increases health care costs and perpetuates the poverty cycle.

Vaccination and Treatment Strategies

In 2021, the RTS, S/AS01 malaria vaccine became the first to receive a World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation for widespread use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supported this rollout, citing the vaccine’s effectiveness in reducing malaria incidence and child mortality. In pilot programs, the vaccine decreased malaria in children by 30% and reduced overall mortality by 13%, even in areas with high usage of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs).

Alongside vaccination, the CDC also promotes LLINs as an effective physical and chemical barrier against mosquitoes. These nets remain a cornerstone of malaria prevention, especially in rural and high-risk regions. For those already infected, Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) offer a fast-acting solution. Derived from the sweet wormwood plant, Artemisinin targets the malaria parasite in its blood phase, often clearing the infection within hours when administered intravenously. While not preventative, it remains critical for reducing symptoms and preventing severe illness.

Controlling the Source

Anopheles stephensi, a mosquito species resistant to insecticides and active during daylight, has spread to countries like Djibouti. After nearly eradicating malaria in 2012, Djibouti saw a resurgence of 73,000 cases by 2020 due to the insect’s rapid spread. To counter this, the United States (U.S.)-based company Oxitec released tens of thousands genetically modified (GM) male mosquitoes in Djibouti in 2025. These mosquitoes cannot bite or transmit disease. When they mate with wild females, the female dies shortly after, reducing the mosquito population. Although still in early stages, this approach could offer long-term benefits for vector control across East Africa.

A Path Forward

Malaria prevention has evolved through vaccines, targeted treatment, insecticide-treated nets and now genetic engineering. However, continued investment in education, infrastructure and health care access remains crucial. By tackling malaria transmission and its root causes, public health strategies not only save lives but also create pathways out of poverty for millions across Africa.

– Abegail Buchan

Abegail is based in Johnstown, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Organizations Fighting the Feminization of Poverty in Africa

Organizations Fighting the Feminization of Poverty in AfricaAfrica, the world’s second-largest continent, shares borders with the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. It holds the highest extreme poverty rates globally, with 23 of the 28 poorest countries, where poverty rates exceed 30%. With the poverty line set at $1.90 per day, Africa’s poverty rate is estimated at 35.5%. Over the past decade, the disparity between the poverty rates of women and men has widened, a trend often described as “the feminization of poverty.” While the continent has one of the highest rates of female labor participation ─second only to Asia─ vulnerable employment (such as unpaid family work) remains the norm.

Women Against Poverty

Compared to others, households led by women face a one-third higher risk of poverty, an issue often referred to as “the feminization of poverty,” which highlights the disproportionate number of women and children among the poor. In response, Women Against Poverty (WAP), a nongovernmental charity founded in Tanzania in 2012 by Mary Gemela and Cresensia Shirima, works to improve the socioeconomic conditions of girls and women in vulnerable conditions. The organization champions an agroforestry transformation in the developing world. It aims to substantially increase the use of working trees on smallholder rural landscapes, thereby ensuring food, nutrition, income, health, shelter, energy and a regenerated environment for women in these communities.

African Women’s Development Fund

Since its founding in 2001, the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) has been funding women-led organizations across Africa. AWDF supports grassroots, local and civil social movements that empower women. The foundation uses a philanthropic approach shaped by its early financial challenges to support feminist movements. Understanding the vital role of financial stability in building and maintaining organizations, AWDF commits to providing feminist groups with the necessary funding.

A wide array of organizations advocating for African women receives grants from AWDF. To qualify, organizations must be women-led, employ a staff that is at least 70% female, have operated for over three years and maintain a structured governance system dedicated to empowering African women. Eligible organizations can receive funding between $2,000 and $100,000. Over the past 22 years, 1,555 women’s rights and feminist organizations in 47 African countries and five Middle Eastern countries have received a total of $4.7 million from AWDF.

United Nations Women Africa

Globally, for every 100 men aged 25 to 34 living in extreme poverty, there are 122 women in the same age group. In sub-Saharan Africa, this disparity increases, with 127 women for every 100 men experiencing extreme poverty. Providing gender-responsive services, production resources, and market access in agriculture, industry and trade can significantly enhance the economic empowerment of women and youth in Africa. United Nations (U.N.) Women aim to empower up to 2 million women through regional and national interventions that increase income and build assets, wealth and business leadership. The program increases women’s access to productive resources and business services, addresses policy and regulatory barriers and enhances women’s participation in and benefits from the extractive industry, agriculture and trade. It also focuses on developing women’s and youth’s agribusiness and entrepreneurship skills across the value chain.

Looking Ahead

The feminization of poverty in Africa highlights women disproportionately affected by economic hardship. Organizations such as Women Against Poverty (WAP) and the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) are working to change this by providing women with the tools and resources needed to improve their livelihoods. Additionally, U.N. Women Africa is focused on empowering women through access to business opportunities and addressing policy barriers, ensuring that women can play a key role in driving economic growth and poverty reduction. These ongoing efforts are essential for fostering long-term development and creating a more equitable future.

– Minji L. Kim

Minji is based in Seoul, South Korea and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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AFAWA and Ongoing AfDB Initiatives

AFAWAThe African Development Bank (AfDB), a multilateral institution, aims to foster sustainable economic development and social progress in its Regional Member Countries (RMCs). Member states signed the agreement establishing the AfDB on Aug. 4, 1963, in Khartoum, Sudan and it became effective on Sept. 10, 1964. The AfDB Group consists of three entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). Here are six ongoing AfDB project.

Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation

The Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) initiative has assisted more than 13 million farmers across Africa, notably achieving self-sufficiency in wheat production in Ethiopia, which has now become a key exporter. TAAT revolutionizes agriculture by providing farmers with modern technologies and practices, focusing on disseminating proven agricultural technologies, supporting the adoption of best practices and enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Banks

Africa’s youth overflow with innovative ideas and entrepreneurial spirit but often lack the funding to realize their dreams. The Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Banks (YEIB) program, designed by the AfDB, bridges this gap. This initiative provides financial support and resources to young entrepreneurs, empowering them to create thriving businesses that fuel economic growth and innovation across the continent. This program is a game-changer for Africa’s future leaders and job creators, offering essential support such as training, mentorship and access to capital. These resources are crucial for young entrepreneurs to succeed in various sectors including technology, agriculture and manufacturing.

Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa

Women in Africa face significant barriers to accessing finance, but the Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) program is changing the narrative. With more than $1 billion mobilized to finance female-owned businesses, AFAWA serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for women entrepreneurs. The AfDB provides these women with essential financial tools and support, enabling them to build successful businesses, contribute to their communities and drive economic growth. This initiative goes beyond finance; it fosters equality and opportunity. AFAWA collaborates with financial institutions to improve lending practices for women, offers capacity-building programs and advocates for policy changes that support women entrepreneurs.

Desert to Power Initiative

Africa boasts significant solar energy potential and the Desert to Power Initiative, spearheaded by the AfDB, aims to tap into this resource to electrify millions of homes. This ambitious project plans to develop 10 gigawatts of solar energy capacity in the Sahel region by 2025, providing clean, affordable and reliable energy to some of the continent’s most energy-deprived areas. The initiative encompasses more than energy provision; it aims to drive sustainable development and enhance the quality of life for millions. Key components of the project include building solar power plants, developing mini-grids and promoting off-grid solar solutions to ensure widespread energy access.

African Emergency Food Production Facility

In response to global food supply disruptions, the AfDB launched the African Emergency Food Production Facility (AEFPF), The aim of the facility is to boost local food production and reduce import dependency. This program supports farmers in growing staple crops such as wheat, rice and soybeans, aiming to enhance food security and stabilize food prices across the continent. This initiative is vital for enabling African nations to sustain their populations and build resilience against future crises. It provides farmers with seeds, fertilizers and technical assistance, all designed to increase productivity and improve the efficiency of food supply chains.

High 5s Initiative

The High 5s Initiative identifies five key priorities for the AfDB to support the continent’s development goals. These priorities include Lighting up and Powering Africa, Feeding Africa, Industrializing Africa, Integrating Africa and Improving the Quality of Life for the People of Africa. Each priority focuses on critical development aspects such as enhancing energy access, boosting agricultural productivity, promoting industrial growth and fostering regional integration. This strategic framework aims to tackle Africa’s pressing challenges and achieve sustainable development across the continent.

Looking Ahead

The AfDB continues to drive significant progress across Africa through targeted initiatives like AFAWA. From agricultural transformation to youth entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment, the AfDB’s projects address critical development needs. Efforts like the Desert to Power Initiative and the African Emergency Food Production Facility are enhancing energy access and food security. Through its comprehensive High 5s Initiative, the AfDB strategically focuses on improving the quality of life for Africans.

– Clara Tripodi

Clara is based in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Mattei Plan: Italy’s Billion-Dollar Investment Plan in Africa

The Mattei Plan: Italy's Billion-Dollar Investment Plan in AfricaItalian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni announced the Mattei Plan during the Italy-Africa summit in 2024—a billion-dollar investment initiative aimed at transforming Italy’s foreign aid policy, generating significant profits for Italy and effecting real change in Africa. The Mattei Plan aims to reduce immigration by improving living conditions in the countries from which many immigrants originate and by curbing the spread of radical Islamism in sub-Saharan Africa. The pilot project will launch in nine countries: Algeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, the Republic of Congo and Tunisia, with an initial investment of €5.5 billion.

The pillars of the program

The Mattei Plan has six focus areas to guide its efforts:

  1. Education and Training. This pillar emphasizes improving educational systems by providing teacher training, refreshing curricula and launching new vocational courses that meet labor market demands. It encourages collaboration with businesses, particularly Italian ones and draws inspiration from Italy’s successful small and medium-sized enterprise model.
  2. Agriculture. The focus here is on reducing malnutrition, fostering agricultural value chains and supporting the development of sustainable biofuels. Key initiatives include promoting family farming, preserving forests and addressing climate change through comprehensive agricultural strategies.
  3. Health. This focus area aims to enhance health services by improving access to quality care for mothers and children. It seeks to build local capacities in health care management, training and research and to implement measures to prevent and manage health crises such as pandemics and natural disasters.
  4. Energy. The goal of this strategic pillar is to transform Italy into an energy gateway between Europe and Africa. Efforts will concentrate on the climate-energy connection, promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy. The plan includes accelerating the shift to renewable electricity, improving energy infrastructure and fostering local energy technology innovation through the establishment of innovation centers.
  5. Water. Initiatives under this pillar include drilling solar-powered wells, maintaining existing water sources, investing in water distribution networks and educating communities about the importance of clean drinking water.
  6. Infrastructure. This pillar supports all other areas by developing both physical and digital infrastructure, ensuring the effective implementation of the plan’s various initiatives.

Collaboration is key

This project will be implemented through a collaboration involving various stakeholders from the Italian government—including multiple Ministries and the Italian Export Credit Agency—as well as from the private and civil society sectors. A notable aspect of the Mattei Plan, which has garnered praise, is its inclusive approach; unlike previous initiatives, it will not be enacted unilaterally from the top down. Instead, African leaders will play an active role in executing the programs, with partners jointly designing key goals and targets.

Evidence of this collaborative approach was visible when 21 African Heads of State and Governments attended the summit where the plan was announced. Additionally, the presence of European Union President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted significant European interest in this innovative, collaborative investment approach in Africa. This integrated approach can deliver short-term goals but also identify areas in which other already existing programs can come in and improve. This comprehensive, cooperative format of the Mattei Plan is original and can change the structure of Italy’s international partnerships. 

Benefits for Europe

Italy stands to gain significantly from the Mattei Plan, especially through its “Energy” pillar. Italy aims to become a key energy supplier to Africa, with the state-owned oil and gas company ENI, already a major player in Africa, expecting high returns from the plan. The plan is named in honor of ENI’s founder, Enrico Mattei. Additionally, water services management company ACEA and oil company ENEL are exploring opportunities in Africa related to the environment and energy sectors.

During another meeting involving stakeholders of the Mattei Plan, African Development Bank director Dr. Akinwumi Adesina highlighted the benefits of Italy’s investment in Africa. The continent is home to six of the 10 fastest-growing economies and has the fastest-growing middle class. It also has the highest concentration of the global population under 35 years old, with 75% of the continent’s population below that age.

Looking Ahead

The Mattei Plan, with its €5.5 billion initial investment, aims to transform Italy’s foreign aid policy and foster significant economic and social development in nine African countries. By focusing on key areas such as education, agriculture, health, energy, water and infrastructure, the plan seeks to improve living conditions and reduce migration pressures. Collaborative efforts involving African leaders, European stakeholders and Italian businesses underscore a new model for international partnerships, poised to benefit both Africa and Italy.

– Clara Tripodi

Clara is based in Salvador, Brazil and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Smartphone Farmers

Smartphone FarmersArmed with smartphones and innovative smartphone apps, small-scale farmers in Africa are transforming the agricultural landscape. This digital revolution is not just changing how crops are grown; it’s reshaping African agricultural communities and economies. There are apps for different spectrums of the agricultural business. These spectrums range from Market access and price information to agricultural information and education, financial services, weather alerts, disease detection and farm management.

The development of agricultural apps for smallholders is part of an “ongoing digital agriculture revolution” in Africa. Nearly 94% of small-scale farmers in developing countries own mobile phones. While smartphone ownership lags behind basic phones, it’s growing rapidly, opening up new possibilities for agricultural innovation. Following are some of the agricultural applications at the forefront of changes.

Maano

Maano translates to “intelligent” in Tonga, one of the local languages spoken in Zambia. Developed by the World Food Programme (WFP), Maano is a virtual farmers’ market app that connects smallholder farmers directly with buyers. It eliminates middlemen, ensuring farmers get fair prices for their produce. The app was launched in May 2017 and initially targeted 2,500 Zambian farmers.

In a pilot run between June and October 2017, more than 1,000 smallholder farmers from 29 rural communities in Zambia’s Southern and Central Provinces participated, selling more than 150 metric tons of produce worth more than $50,000. By the end of 2018, WFP aimed to reach 5,000 smallholder farmers in Africa and transact approximately $200,000 through the Maano App.

Farm Drive

The app is designed to close the critical data gap that prevents financial institutions from lending to creditworthy smallholder farmers in Africa. The app collects various types of data, including financial transactions, agronomic data, environmental data and satellite data. This data is analyzed to generate credit scores that accurately capture farmers’ risk profiles. It then enables financial institutions to offer loans to smallholder farmers who were previously considered too risky. Farm Drive was selected as a World Summit Award Winner in the Business and Commerce category, highlighting its innovative approach to addressing financial inclusion for farmers.

PANNAR Sprouts

The PANNAR Sprout mobile app, launched in 2015, serves as a crucial technical support tool for grain crop farmers in Africa. Developed by PANNAR Seed, the app provides farmers with essential agronomic information and support, helping them optimize their farming practices and improve crop yields. The app is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, offering features such as crop management advice, pest and disease identification and weather forecasts.

The Impact: Beyond the Field

The benefits of these mobile innovations extend far beyond increased crop yields. Farmers are making more informed decisions, saving time and money on transportation and improving their overall production and marketing strategies. Moreover, these digital tools enhance food security and improve livelihoods. By connecting farmers directly to markets and providing access to financial services, they help lift entire communities out of poverty.

Challenges

Despite the promise, challenges remain. The digital gender gap means that women farmers often have less access to smartphones and apps. Additionally, many farmers still use basic phones, necessitating the development of SMS-based services alongside smartphone apps. Another hurdle is the affordability of smartphones and mobile services. However, as prices continue to fall and coverage expands, more farmers are expected to join the digital agriculture revolution.

– Sakshi Pillai

Sakshi is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Investing in R&D for Diseases in Africa

Diseases in AfricaThe world has become a global village and events in one part of it affect everyone in many ways. Depending on the event, the effects can be good or bad. The African continent is of immense significance. Neglected diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, malaria and other tropical diseases are not just problems in Africa; they are global challenges. Africa currently accounts for 20% of the global disease burden and that means both the loss of 630 million lives and $2.4 trillion in economic value yearly.

The United States (U.S.), as a global leader, holds a key position in global health security. It can further strengthen this position by allocating investments in Africa, particularly in research and development (R&D) for these diseases. This strategic move will contribute to global health and boost the U.S. economy, creating new jobs and fostering innovation. Recent research published by the Global Health Technologies Coalition (GHTC) has proven that investment from the U.S. can impact not only global health but also boost the U.S. economy.

The US Investments in Health R&D in Africa

The U.S. investments are vital to supporting the development of new drugs for diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, HIV and Ebola, which are among the most pressing health challenges in Africa and globally. For instance, U.S. investment in the development of antiretroviral drugs has significantly reduced the mortality rate of HIV/AIDS in Africa, saving millions of lives. This is a testament to the potential impact of the U.S. investments in health R&D in Africa.

In the last two decades, the U.S. has invested $46 billion in R&D for neglected diseases like HIV, malaria, tuberculosis and other health issues. In 2022, this investment was 0.21% of its gross domestic product (GDP). The investment helped develop 12 products for tuberculosis and 11 for malaria. The development of Pretomanid has revolutionized tuberculosis treatment. It also works for drug-resistant cases, reducing the treatment duration from 18 months to 6 months. Using it for all drug-resistant cases can save up to $740 million annually.

Two drugs, Cabotegravir and Dapvirine, developed with U.S. investments, have the potential to revolutionize HIV prevention and treatment. Many other products against different diseases are in the pipeline, also developed with the country’s investment.

Boosting the US Economy

These investments have boosted the U.S. economy and benefited U.S. companies and people in more ways than one might think. Here are some key points describing how these investments have contributed to the growth of the U.S. economy:

  • Investments in R&D for diseases have created 600,000 jobs in the U.S. 
  • The investments resulted in an additional $104 billion in the U.S. economy.
  • The investments on the governmental level have enhanced private sector investments in R&D for global health as well and $1 will result in an additional $8 investment in the private sector. These figures imply that the U.S. economy will ultimately gain an investment advantage of $102 billion.

These investments will result in future products worth $255 billion, further boosting the U.S. economy.

Final Thoughts

The U.S. has financial power and moral authority globally. More investment in R&D for diseases can improve life expectancy in Africa, strengthen the economies of partner countries, boost the U.S. economy and protect Americans’ health. The world has become a global village and diseases can spread quickly, creating a potential danger for everyone. Cases of malaria and leprosy have emerged in the U.S. in the recent past.

R&D of treatments and prevention products can help control the emergence of diseases in the U.S. and globally secure the financial future of thousands of Americans through jobs and boost a strong U.S. economy. In our current circumstances, allocating resources toward R&D for diseases in Africa is crucial. This investment can revitalize the U.S. economy during these challenging times.

– Maria Waleed

Maria is based in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Economic Partnership between the Gulf States and Africa

Economic Partnerships between the Gulf States and AfricaIn the last five years, an economic partnership between the Gulf States and Africa has emerged via the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The GCC is a political and economic alliance between Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain and Oman. It was established in 1981 to promote greater cooperation and achieve shared objectives based on the similar political and cultural identities of Islamic culture.

An example of the growing economic partnership between the Gulf states and Africa is when, in 2023, companies within the GCC announced 73 foreign direct investment projects in various African countries worth more than $53 billion. Businesses and nations in the GCC look to Africa as an economic partnership expected to grow in value, mainly due to the new Africa Continental Free Trade Area signed in 2018.

The African Continental Free Trade Area

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement is one of the largest free trade areas in the world, as measured by the number of participating countries. The pact connects 1.3 billion people across 55 countries, with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) valued at $3.4 trillion.

AfCFTA entices investment from the GCC because its free trade gives greater access to the African market, which has the potential to develop into a more lucrative market. This investment further ties countries in the GCC and Africa to an economic partnership driven by a mutual interest in diversification. For countries in the GCC, diversification is essential as these investments are ways to diversify their economy away from oil and other hydrocarbon exports into something more sustainable.

Examples of Investment Projects

Some of the GCC’s high-profile initiatives involve countries across the continent. One example is ACWA Power, based in Saudi Arabia, which has agreed to develop a green hydrogen project in Egypt’s Suez Canal Economic Zone and committed more than $4 billion. The first phase aims to produce 600,000 tonnes of green ammonia annually.

Similarly, AMEA Power, a different company based in Dubai, is planning to build a hydrogen project in Kenya, along with the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company, which has invested $1.6 billion in renewable energy projects in Morocco. These are not small investments and highlight the importance that companies and countries from the GCC give these projects in Africa.

What Does This Mean for the West?

This increasing investment into Africa from the GCC comes as many countries in the West have fallen behind in their commitment to invest in sustainable projects to help develop the continent. With countries in the West and even China generally decreasing their investment in Africa, countries in the GCC see an opening in the continent to increase their influence in these countries and benefit from any development into a fast-growing economy. An expanding middle class in Africa is desirable for investors and entrepreneurs as it could mean millions of new customers for products and services from the Middle East.

Building economic ties in Africa is easier logistically for countries in the GCC as they can capitalize on their geostrategic location to access Africa through ship and land trade routes. Expanding their economic influence in African states has provided GCC states with an essential source of leverage to advance their regional security and diplomatic goals, increasing their power projection worldwide. This means that countries in the West, especially the U.S. and countries in the GCC will have more significant influence across the continent. They may act more independently in ways that might not align with the interests of the U.S. or other Western countries in the region.

While nothing suggests that countries in the GCC will soon want to adjust the way the U.S. has approached the region or directly challenge U.S. interests, the fact is that the U.S. is currently ceding its influence, positive relations, opportunities for economic investment and diplomatic relationships in Africa to other powers like the countries in the GCC and China.

– Mathieu Pare

Mathieu is based in Toronto, Canada and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Comic Republic: A New Comic Book Landscape

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

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

Comic Republic: Pioneering African Comics

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

YouNeek: Building an African Comic Universe

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

Looking Ahead

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

– Charlie McFadden

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Zimbabwe’s New Currency: A New Start?

Zimbabwe’s New CurrencyZimbabwe is a country in Southern Africa that has faced a volatile economy and high poverty and unemployment rates in the last decades. Amid surging inflation, which reached 55% in March 2024, the government announced the creation of a new currency, the ZiG, indexed on market prices and backed by gold. The hope is that this new currency could stabilize the economy and restore market confidence. Zimbabwe’s new currency and poverty situation are now closely interlinked.

Zimbabwe’s Economic Situation

The 2023 elections, which saw President Emmerson Mnangagwa get reelected, largely happened under the sign of economic concerns plaguing the country. The foregone rule of Mugabe left the country in dire financial circumstances. Among other problems, high inflation, corruption and a suspension of aid from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as part of sanctions have yielded a cutthroat economic situation.

Although real gross domestic growth (GDP) reached 5.5% in 2023, this number is expected to fall to 3.3% in 2024 due to the effects of an El Nino induced drought and the general macroeconomic instability. However, the country’s economic foundations are considered decent as several sectors, such as agriculture and mineral production, remain locally and globally competitive. Yet, structural economic challenges will have to be tackled head-on to fulfill Zimbabwe’s economic potential truly.

Zimbabwe and Poverty

The decades of economic instability have stunted the country’s ability to fight poverty. As of 2023, it’s estimated that 42% of the population still lives in extreme poverty, with a quarter of the population being food insecure. With certain economists claiming the country’s unemployment rate is as high as 85%, much of the burden for the slow progress in diminishing poverty rates falls upon the country’s economic situation.

Zimbabwe’s New Currency and Poverty

Finance Minister Ncube announced the creation of the ZiG (Zim Gold) as part of a series of measures that sought to restore economic stability to the country. Since its election, the government has increased taxes on products such as sugar to repay some of the debt that has caused much of the country’s structural problems.

The new currency, indexed on the country’s gold reserves and precious minerals, would be less volatile than its predecessor. Indeed, backed by hard value items, this would prevent the currency from losing its worth. If successful, the new currency could help restore the country’s economy, where currently 85% of transactions are recorded in the United States (U.S. dollars). The government’s main objective is to regain strength and trust in a national currency as a path to leave the U.S. Dollar.

Suffering from high exchange rates, confidence in a national currency could lend itself to a better overall context for small and private businesses if restored. Zimbabwe’s new currency and poverty both rely upon stability and forthcoming measures.

Looking Ahead

The currency debuted and Zimbabweans were asked to exchange their remaining Zimbabwean Dollars for the ZiG in early April. Since then, mixed reports have come out. The general mistrust of the population regarding the historically chaotic management of the country’s economic institution leads many to remain keen on prioritizing the U.S. Dollar in most exchanges.

However, the ZiG does stay at a much lower exchange rate than its predecessor, the U.S. dollar. The choice of backing up the currency with hard assets still yields questions as economists wonder if the country’s gold and mineral reserves are large enough to back a currency. Whether this new approach will bear its fruits for Zimbabwe’s new currency and poverty alleviation requires close monitoring in the future.

– Felix Stephens

Felix is based in London, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Genetic Innovations Lifting African Farmers Out of Poverty

Genetic InnovationsAlmost 430 million people in Africa face extreme poverty. This is nearly a third of Africa’s population. The World Bank reported that the majority of these people rely on agriculture, making the link between poverty and agriculture inextricable. Although agriculture can be a prosperous sector, African farmers often lack the resources and genetic innovations that have afforded farmers around the world such a surge in their production.

This is exemplified by sub-Saharan Africa’s fertilizer use being seven times lower than the global average. Another challenge farmers face is the increasing frequency of drought. Drought inhibits agricultural production and exacerbates food insecurity, displacement and poverty. However, genetic innovation provides a solution to these problems.

Providing African farmers with livestock and crops that are genetically optimized to thrive in these conditions has been incredibly effective. These are some of the genetic innovations lifting African farmers out of poverty.

Drought-Resistant Rice in Guinea

Although rice is farmed within Guinea, the country still imports around $230 million worth of the commodity each year. The low output of rice in Guinea can be partly attributed to harsh growing conditions in the region. The rice species that have adapted to these conditions are naturally low-yielding.

A genetically superior type of rice called New Rice for Africa (NERICA) has been created to help Africa overcome this problem. By breeding high-yielding Asian rice variants with the lower-yielding but adaptive African variant, NERICA was born as the first rice variant to produce a high yield in Africa’s climate. Even in the absence of fertilizer, these variants generate 50% more yield than other rice varieties.

Not only is NERICA higher-yielding, but it also contains more protein than other varieties in Guinea, which supports the nutritional needs of a country where malnutrition is rife. At least 20,000 farmers in Guinea have benefited from NERICA rice since its adoption in the country.

Resilient Sheep and Goats in Kenya

Livestock are a life-changing asset for farmers in Kenya. For small-scale farmers, the death of just one animal can put their livelihoods at risk. Heat stress, disease and parasites are some of the main threats to livestock. Through selective cross-breeding, sheep and goats that can withstand higher temperatures and are more resistant to disease and parasites have been produced.

In Kenya, genetically advantageous Galla goats and Red Maasai sheep have been added to existing herds. Not only are these breeds more resilient, but they also increase household income by supplying more milk and selling for a higher price than their equivalent local breeds. These genetically advantageous breeds have reduced food insecurity by around 90% in Kenya.

High-Yielding Beans in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is one of Africa’s lowest-income countries. Four million farmers in Ethiopia rely on beans as a source of both food and income. However, limited access to expensive farming resources combined with frequent droughts limits the yield of smaller-scale farmers. Beans are a staple in the region and enhancing their yield can increase food security and provide a route out of poverty for small-scale farmers.

Therefore, genetically superior beans that grow faster and withstand drought have been produced through selective breeding. These varieties have more than tripled the average bean yield per hectare in Ethiopia. Since their rollout, the adoption of these beans has increased the household income for 2.5 million families in Ethiopia.

A Sustainable Route Out of Poverty

Genetic innovations like these are life-changing for small-scale farmers in Africa. Since crops and livestock produce offspring with similarly advantageous genes, the initiatives have a sustained impact and provide a long-term solution to Africa’s poverty crisis. Greater investment into agricultural research and wider-scale implementation of these innovations will be crucial for ending poverty in Africa.

– Catrin Jones

Catrin is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Technology and Solutions and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr