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Gender Wage Gap in Nicaragua Ranks 6th Narrowest Globally

gender gap nicaraguaIn the 2024 Global Gender Gap Report, Nicaragua ranked sixth in narrowing gender gaps nationally–the only country in the Americas to rank in the top 10. Narrowing the gender gap entails eradicating the difference in outcomes for and opportunities offered to men and women, which fits into SDG 5. The gender wage gap is a specific manifestation of gender inequality. This gap encompasses the difference between men’s and women’s median financial earnings. While this statistic represents income generally, the issue of women receiving lower wages than men for the same job adds to this difference.

Through a variety of efforts, Nicaragua has decreased its gender wage gap by 80% since 2006. Decades-old initiatives such as the Nicaraguan Women’s Institute have set the stage for Nicaragua’s record levels of gender equality today, and more recent programs such as Better Work are doing on-the-ground work to fight for equal pay.

Nicaraguan Women’s Institute

The Nicaraguan government created the Nicaraguan Women’s Institute in 1987 as a body for spearheading gender equality policies. These policies influence areas of female inequality from domestic abuse to labor. The Women’s Institute targets Nicaraguan institutions, providing strategies that will sustainably enact gender equality over time.

While the institute implemented many of its programs some time ago, the foundation it laid has allowed Nicaragua to reach its impressively narrow gender wage gap today.  Many of its programs have targeted a wide range of areas in a woman’s life beyond wages, including health and education. These strategies, such as the National Program of Gender Equity, may have helped women gain access to employment, decreasing the gender wage gap.

Better Work

Better Work is an initiative that increases factories’ compliance with labor standards from the International Labor Organization (ILO). This program is a joint initiative from the ILO and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

Better Work examines a factory’s labor conditions and shares its findings with major companies. Since many of today’s companies prefer to work with ethical factories for reputational issues, noncompliance with ILO standards is penalized.

Gender equality is a core element of Better Work’s approach. Better Work uses training and advisory services to help factories adhere to ILO standards, with gender equality strategies fully integrated into these efforts. Complying with gender equality, such as wage equality, is therefore incorporated into complying with ILO labor standards.

Since its establishment in Nicaragua in 2010, Better Work has worked with 32 Nicaraguan factories, 20 brands, and more than 45,000 workers. The initiative specifically targets the gender wage gap by fighting for shorter hours and higher wages for women to match those made by men. Industry labor accounts for almost a fifth of employment in Nicaragua, meaning Better Work’s efforts can reach a significant portion of the population.

Gender Wage Gap in Nicaragua: Going Forward

The Nicaraguan Women’s Institute and Better Work can be expected to continue to make a positive impact on Nicaragua’s gender wage gap. Nicaragua still has a way to go until it reaches gender equality in the workforce, with a female employment rate of 54.9% and a male employment rate of 75.9% in 2024.

Yet, the Women’s Institute’s institutional change strategy and Better Work’s advisory and incentive-based approach have already helped Nicaragua to decrease its gender wage gap by 80% since 2006, showcasing their effectiveness.

– Madison Fetch

Madison is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Disability and Poverty in Nicaragua 

Disability and Poverty in NicaraguaNicaragua is home to almost 7 million people and is known for its bewitching terrain of grand lakes and vibrant volcanoes. The Central American country is rich in agriculture and colonial architecture. However, disability and poverty in Nicaragua is a concern to many. The efforts to take action on these issues are very low, with political officials choosing to ignore them. People with disabilities often live in extreme poverty due to the lack of measures taken to protect them.

Roughly 10-15% of the population in Nicaragua is disabled, which is around 700,000 to 1 million people. People experience numerous types of disabilities, ranging from physical, mental and intellectual. The most common being limb amputees and individuals with paralysis. The causes can vary from conditions present at birth, chronic diseases such as noncommunicable diseases, or exposure to occupational hazards. A large contributor is deficiencies in pre- and post-natal care and not having proper access to medical resources during pregnancy. 

The Parallels Between Disability and Poverty in Nicaragua

About 12.5% of the population lived in poverty as of 2023. While it is unknown how many people with disabilities are living in extreme poverty, disability and poverty are exceedingly relevant to each other. Disabled citizens in Nicaragua often do not have access to employment opportunities, increasing their chances of living in poverty.

They often face nationwide discrimination and ridicule. The social stigma in Nicaragua perceives these people as “less than human.” People with disabilities in Nicaragua often do not have access to public health facilities and other institutions. In Nicaragua, in the absence of modern medical advances, those with disabilities struggle for services beyond basic care. Only 10%, who are classified as having severe disabilities, receive regular health care and are able to do home improvements.

Individuals with disabilities encounter inhumane treatment in their homes and in public. They experience neglect domestically and often cannot meet their basic needs, such as adequate shelter and food. Being isolated from their families because they are perceived as inferior can hinder their emotional development, causing serious effects on their mental health. Both their families and the government often abandon them, failing to protect their rights.

Political State of Nicaragua

In recent events, Nicaragua has amended its constitution to grant expansive powers to the president, Daniel Ortega. This comprises influence over media, extending the presidential term to six years, the vice president, Rosario Murillo, becoming a co-president, and permission to pick any number of vice presidents. These tyrannical sets of laws will block any Nicaraguan process. This also could be critical for the protection of persons with disabilities, which previously under laws were deficient.

Under the Nicaraguan law “Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,” 2% of public officials should be people with disabilities, yet legislation does nothing to enforce this or meet the quota by any means. The law that aims to protect people with disabilities is not respected. The United Nations has stated its concerns about the measures “acted upon” under the law. On Apr.23, 2024, the UN, in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, expressed observations on the treatment of the disabled in Nicaragua. Some of the topics discussed were what legislation has done to recognize their discrimination, if there is a system in place for receiving grievances and action taken in this connection and the poverty among children with disabilities. With these repercussions from the government, the safety of these citizens will be endangered.

Efforts From the Community

There are rare services offering aid to disabled people in Nicaragua. In Juigalpa, Nicaragua, there is a small organization that helps protect disabled people. External funding and local efforts to create a safe haven for people supports Fundacion Cristiana Comunitaria para Personas con Discapacidad Ruach, translated Ruach Christian Community Foundation for People With Disabilities. It provides care and attention. Individuals participate in activities that boost social skills, self-esteem and overall happiness. It protects them from abuse and neglect that comes within their households.

Ruach has stated that its main goal is to change society’s perspective and remind others that these people, individually, have something positive to offer to the world—that they have skills and attributes that are capable of creation. The project currently works with seven adults but hopes to expand to support 24 disabled people across the nation. Today, it has raised enough money to give people with disabilities a home to be themselves. Its dedication shows that disability and poverty in Nicaragua are not hopeless.

Conclusion

Individuals with disabilities in Nicaragua face economic hardships, jarring discrimination and difficulty accessing health facilities. These pressing concerns showcase an intersection of poverty and political neglect. As the government continues to ignore the marginalized group, the social stigma of persons with disabilities worsens. This makes it essential for change in Nicaragua. Society, organizations and individuals should address discrimination, advocate for modern medicine and reinforce the laws that are intended to protect their rights. Ultimately, fostering an inclusive environment can benefit in recognizing the contributions and skills disabled citizens possess.

 – Kassandra Ticas

Kassandra is based in Gardner, MA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Children in Poverty: 5 Stories From La Esperanza Granada

Children in Poverty: 5 Stories From La Esperanza Granada In Nicaragua, La Esperanza Granada, a charity established in 2002, supports more than 400 children on the outskirts of Granada. Collaborating with the Ministry of Education and local communities, the organization educates young people and children on valuable life skills. Furthermore, they provide resources to help break the cycle of poverty. La Esperanza Granada assists children by supplying school uniforms, textbooks, sanitary items, mentoring and bicycles, fostering a community that prioritizes education and nurtures high self-esteem and robust support systems. Here are five stories from La Esperanza Granada’s recent efforts to aid children in poverty in Nicaragua.

Vision Exams

Sept. 2024 marks the second year that La Esperanza Granada has provided vision exams for children in its organization, offering free glasses to those who could not afford them. This initiative aims to enhance the children’s quality of life by prioritizing their health and functional development. It also boosts their confidence and self-esteem, as they can now fully participate in school activities with new, stylish glasses they selected themselves.

Musical Performances

Younger children from Escudo Learning Centre and a sister organization collaborated on an artistic performance, captivating an audience with their newly developed skills. Under the guidance of instructors from Fundación LO CREO, these young learners participated in singing and flute lessons, honing their artistic abilities and creativity. After months of preparation, they showcased their talents in a musical performance, which fostered essential developmental skills such as discipline, cooperation and self-confidence.

Entrepreneurial Workshops

La Esperanza Granada organized an entrepreneurial workshop for university students to foster innovation and offer a platform for their entrepreneurial ideas. Business owners from diverse fields, including honey production, handicraft creation, fruit liqueur production, leather-based safety products and wildlife breeding, led the workshop. They shared their successes and failures, providing students with realistic business insights and stimulating creative entrepreneurial thinking. These personal stories from business owners not only motivated the students but also facilitated networking. Furthermore, the students were encouraged to seek advice and make connections with experienced entrepreneurs.

Engaging Lessons

At La Esperanza Granada’s learning centers, young children engage with English lessons through Duolingo. The interactive app enhances reading, writing and speaking skills. This approach not only makes learning enjoyable but also equips students with language skills that can improve their educational and employment prospects. The centers provide tablets for these lessons, offering students essential technological skills and making classes more dynamic. Such engaging educational experiences help retain children in schools where they benefit from strong support and a sense of community.

Pulps and Nectars

On August 7, 2024, young educators from La Esperanza Granada attended skill workshops at the Sabaneta Learning Centre. The workshops focused on creating fruit-based nectars and pulps. Led by MEFCA, the workshop provided practical education on extracting pulps and nectars.  Additionally, the workshops include specific procedures for pollutant elimination and cutting techniques to ensure product quality. This training enriched students with entrepreneurial ideas and practical knowledge, enhancing their collaboration skills. Such initiatives are crucial as they provide valuable skills that can generate income, helping to break down barriers of poverty.

Looking Ahead

La Esperanza Granada continues to make significant strides in supporting the youth in Nicaragua. The organization provides crucial resources and skills to break the cycle of poverty. Indeed, their diverse programs, from vision exams to entrepreneurial workshops, not only enhance educational opportunities but also empower children and young adults to improve their futures. These ongoing efforts highlight the charity’s commitment to fostering a more equitable environment for the communities on the outskirts of Granada.

– Chelsey Saya McLeod

Chelsey is based in Southampton, Hampshire, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Mental Health in Nicaragua: 3 Promising Programs  

Mental Health in NicaraguaMental health is a significant global health concern, and many countries are striving to find effective solutions. According to the 2022 World Mental Health Report, about one in eight people in the world live with a mental disorder. Creating a positive mental health environment has been a complex journey for the citizens of Nicaragua, as they have faced many external hardships, including political regimes and natural disasters.

Mental Health in Nicaragua

In Nicaragua, there is a severe lack of health care professionals for those suffering from mental health issues. According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Mental Health Atlas in 2020, there were only 250 mental health professionals in the entire country. That means for every 100,000 people, there are less than four mental health professionals. Medical professionals are necessary for Nicaraguan citizens to attend to their health needs. Without their care, the citizens must manage their health issues on their own.

The lack of those professionals is only one part of the problem. The places where those people go to get the help they need are also an issue. There are only five mental health outpatient facilities attached to a hospital in the country and only one main mental hospital which had a total number of 1, 179 admissions, according to WHO. This severe lack of resources for those dealing with mental health in Nicaragua can lead to many people not receiving the help they need.

Within the population of Nicaragua, approximately 24.9% live in poverty, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). Since there are few medical professionals and places, those who live in poverty and suffer from mental health have almost nowhere to go.

This difficult reality is still prevalent in Nicaragua, even so, the country is working towards fostering positive mental health. Education and outreach are two of the key factors when it comes to changing the mental health crisis. Here are three programs that are reworking mental health in Nicaragua:

ANDEPSI

Due to the lack of mental health professionals in Nicaragua, The Nicaraguan Association for the Development of Psychology (ANDEPSI) has set out to change this issue. ANDEPSI started in 2016 and has continued to promote mental health to the citizens of Nicaragua. Psychology professionals in Nicaragua are better equipped to address mental health issues through the dedication of ANDEPSI to enhancing their training. Education is the first step, as ANDEPSI works with both students in university and senior professionals, updating both groups on advancements in mental health. This leads to better-equipped workers handling mental health challenges.

The association educates those within this field and those in the community through regular educational events in the media. Through this level of outreach, the ANDEPSI is promoting a well-rounded education of professionals that trickles down to the individuals affected by mental health in Nicaragua. More educated professionals can result in those who live in poverty getting the help they need closer to them rather than travelling to one of those five outpatient facilities. The group has made small but meaningful progress such as creating alliances with national universities, joining the International Union of Psychological Science, and has organized meetings to discuss climate change action in the country, according to the American Psychological Association (APA).

The Mental Health Innovation Network

The Mental Health Innovation Network (MHIN) is conducting a research project focusing on improving Nicaragua’s mental health literacy. The project’s approach includes educating teachers who will then educate students and developing an “innovative tech platform to support youth self-education on mental health.” This allows both students and teachers to learn more about the reality of mental health and decrease the surrounding stigma. The group conducted their initial research which showed promising program results such as lower psychological distress scores among students. Researchers within the group also reported that “90% of intervention teachers and students were very satisfied with the curriculum and felt it was important to continue to offer it in school programming.”

The project plans to implement a variety of resources beyond the education curriculum, such as a platform to discuss these issues. Platforms like this help educate and encourage those who face these issues to get the help they need. The Ministry of Education plans to continue this form of education and the research group is looking to work with policymakers to increase the program’s outreach.

CISWH

The Center for Innovation in Social Work and Health (CISWH) has gone a different route regarding mental health in Nicaragua, through social work trips. In 2022, the CISWH trip partnered with many Nicaraguan companies and organizations, such as the National Autonomous University of Nicaragua FAREM-Estelí (UNAN-FAREM). The Superemos Foundation, based in Estelí, conducted psychosocial seminars as part of its community development work through health and social services.

The seminars, focused on trauma and mental health, educated many community members such as the Estelí Department of Public Defense and medical personnel from the University. CISWH travelled to other parts of the country to conduct seminars on other issues, including the environment.

Along with mental health, the group pushes for environmental activism. They met with La Mariposa, a school and hotel that uses its profits to fund rural community projects. Those on the trip learned about La Mariposa’s current plan to improve access to clean water. By educating people on these issues in communities, it brings awareness and potential help within these programs. For those living in poverty, community outreach is one of the many ways they can receive training and education on issues such as mental health and the environment.

This form of outreach allows citizens to engage with each other and get educated on global issues. In the future, CISWH plans to continue this outreach remotely as it trains UNAN-FAREM students in social and psychology.

The Path Forward

Mental health in Nicaragua is a critical and complex issue with deeply intertwined with the country’s socio-political landscape. Through these organizations, it is clear that the solutions to the mental health crisis start with educating those on the front lines. Medical professionals and students alike must be kept informed and updated on the various aspects of mental health care. Community outreach goes hand in hand with that as it empowers the citizens to receive education on this topic.

Mental health and poverty are two sides of the same coin. When a person is mentally sound, they can reach for better opportunities to work out of poverty. This boosts the economy as well since if more people are working then the economy is bound to grow. By engaging with people, the country can alleviate mental health and open the door for more conversations regarding it.

While mental health is still an ongoing issue in Nicaragua, suicide-related deaths have been improving since 2018 and stands at 4.35 deaths per 100,000. There has also been an increase in community-based mental health services from 2017 to 2020. As Nicaragua continues to navigate its country’s challenges, addressing these mental health issues needs to be a priority to ensure the well-being and resilience of its population.

– Tess Curran

Tess is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for TheBorgen Project.

Photo: Wikipedia Commons

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Hotel Con Corazón Has Heart for Latin America

Hotel Con CorazónHotel con Corazón opened its doors in 2008 after founders Onno Oostveen and Marcel Zuidhof agreed they wanted to impact the world. The pair decided to start their journey in Nicaragua, one of the poorest countries in Latin America.

Hotel Con Corazón’s Heartfelt Journey to Nicaragua

Oostveen and Zuidhof traveled to Nicaragua during a holiday in 2006. While there, they noted the lively potential for tourism and the lack of funding for education. By 2008, the pair had moved to Nicaragua and decided to support the local community by opening Hotel con Corazón. The pair now employs a fantastic team that supports the hotel and even employs teachers for schools.

Empowering Youths in Nicaragua, One Stay at a Time

Hotel con Corazón mission is to provide accessible education for children in need within Latin America. The World Bank has reported that 70% of 10-year-olds in Nicaragua cannot read or understand basic texts. The lack of education for children may result in a lack of earnings in the future. More than 60% of children in Nicaragua are living in educational poverty. Hotel con Corazón aims to give back the chance of a bright future for the youths of Nicaragua. It hopes that youths can stop the cycle of poverty for themselves and their families by doing this.

Since its first hotel opened to the public in Granada, Nicaragua, the hotel company has assisted 250 children annually through primary and higher levels of education. In 2024, the hotel group will have supported an estimated 4,000 children in completing their education. Hotel con Corazón invests 100% of its profits into local education. The hotel is aesthetically designed and boasts a swimming pool and a bar where guests can buy drinks and food. It also has two patios where visitors can relax and enjoy breakfast or lunch. Additionally, it provides free Wi-Fi and entertainment for guests.

Guest profits provide the hotel with funding to support extracurricular activities for youth and parental workshops. In addition to helping youth through education, Hotel con Corazón offers development and income opportunities to several Nicaraguans each year. It further supports the local economy by buying produce from the community and running a commercial business. The hotel group can support 22 employees in its Nicaraguan hotel, where it also offers development programs so that employees have access to further education for themselves or their children. The hotel has made several positive impacts on Nicaragua, supporting the country through poverty in as many ways as it can.

Outreach to Oaxaca

In 2018, the hotel group decided to expand its social impact. Therefore, it opened the first Hotel con Corazón in one of the poorest cities in Mexico. According to the World Bank, 26% of Mexican children are not enrolled in pre-primary education and only 57% of 10-year-olds can read. Oaxaca is rated the second lowest city in Mexico for its education levels. Hotel con Corazón’s Oaxaca branch continues a similar vision as it does in Nicaragua.

The company invests all profits from guest stays and purchases made in bars and its hotel shop into education at all levels in Oaxaca. The hotel supports the Oaxaca Learning Center, which runs a motivational program for 60-70 youths and funds educational costs for those who most need it. Hotel con Corazón is also partnered with Mundo de Talentos, a nonprofit organization that provides children with free occupational guidance. Mundo de Talentos originated in Chiapas, Mexico. In 2023, Hotel con Corazón funded the nonprofit to expand its reach to Oaxaca. This funding enabled the nonprofit to begin its annual program in Oaxaca with 40 students enrolled.

Additionally, Hotel con Corazón has created a learning space within Oaxaca, where young people can learn trading skills that they can use in hospitality work. It offers apprenticeships to unemployed youths who are also not in education and aims to help them find work they can enjoy. For the youths already in education, Hotel con Corazón offers apprenticeships where young people have the potential to train in its Oaxacan hotel.

The Final Resort

Hotel con Corazón has made impressive impacts in changing the lives of youths through education and supporting the countries it operates in through poverty. The hotel group’s latest mission is spreading love in Latin America. It plans to open 10 more hotels in the next 10 years. The aim is to regenerate its educational and motivational schemes for the poorest parts of Latin America that need the most help. It has already begun building three branches in Costa Rica and Mexico. By 2025, its newest branch will open for guests in Monteverde, Costa Rica.

– Raquel Smith

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

Photo: Hotel Con Corazón

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How Wind Power in Nicaragua Is Alleviating Poverty

How Wind Power in Nicaragua Is Alleviating PovertyIn the heart of Central America, Nicaragua is making waves in the realm of sustainable energy. Amidst economic challenges and a history of poverty, the country is taking significant strides toward a brighter future by tapping into a vast and often underutilized resource—the power of the wind. The advent of wind power in Nicaragua, through groundbreaking initiatives in harnessing wind energy, not only addresses its energy needs but also catalyzes poverty alleviation.

According to the World Food Programme (WFP), nearly 25% of people in Nicaragua live in poverty, making it one of the poorest nations in Latin America. Furthermore, nearly 65% of the population works in agriculture— an unreliable industry due to the country being prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes and droughts.

Unfortunately in 2022, Nicaragua was hit by Hurricane Julia, which drove poverty in vulnerable areas up to 40%. Hazardous weather and the lack of jobs outside of farming means that much of the population is at a high risk of experiencing poverty.

The Potential of Wind Energy

With its strategic geographical location, Nicaragua boasts impressive wind resources, especially along its Pacific coast. According to EV Wind, the country has an average wind speed of 9 meters per second, making it an excellent location for wind farming. In fact, the wind farms have become vital contributors to the national energy grid— two farms, Amayo and Eolo, both located in the Rivas region, contribute massively to the country’s supply of energy.

According to data from Power Technology, the farms collectively offset nearly 300,000t of carbon dioxide emissions annually, aiding the country’s goal of generating 91% of its energy from renewable sources by 2027. The World Bank Group reported that the Eolo wind farm alone produces 7% of Nicaragua’s annual energy demand. By creating energy locally, the farms help to reduce the average marginal costs of generation, reducing the energy cost to the population.

Job Creation and Economic Growth

One of the immediate impacts of the investment into wind power in Nicaragua is the creation of employment opportunities. The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis reported that since 2008, the employment rate has increased from 59% to 62% in 2022.

The country experienced a higher rate of 63% in 2017 and dipped to 60.5% during the COVID-19 pandemic. The construction, operation and maintenance of wind farms have generated jobs across various skill levels, providing income to local communities.

According to Wind Power International, the construction of the Eolo wind farm generated about 400 jobs, alongside 40 full-time positions that oversee ongoing operations. As these projects expand, so does the demand for a skilled workforce, further boosting Nicaragua’s economy and providing a pathway out of poverty for many.

Access to Clean Energy

One of the significant challenges faced by impoverished communities is the lack of access to reliable and affordable energy. The focus on wind power in Nicaragua plays a crucial role in overcoming this hurdle. The National Electric Transmission Company (ENATREL) published data stating in 2022, nearly 71% of Nicaragua’s energy came from renewable sources, including wind power, hydropower and geothermal power.

Furthermore, by diversifying its energy mix, the country is not only ensuring a more stable and resilient power supply but is also working toward making electricity more accessible to remote and underserved areas. The integration of wind power into Nicaragua’s energy grid has contributed to a reduction in the cost of electricity, making it more affordable for households and businesses alike.

However, CEIC Data reported that in 2008, Nicaragua’s household energy price was at an all-time high of $0.300 per kWh and experienced a record low of $0.220 in 2021. This data directly correlates with the installation of wind farm projects in the country, proving its hand in making electricity more accessible. This, in turn, stimulates economic activities, creating a positive cycle of growth that directly impacts poverty reduction.

International Collaboration and Investment

Nicaragua’s journey into wind power has attracted attention and support from the international community. Collaborations with foreign investors, NGOs and development agencies have facilitated the financing and implementation of ambitious wind energy projects.

For example, the OPEC Fund for International Development reported in 2020 that it had provided $25 million toward Phase I and II of the Caribbean Coast Rural Electrification Process. The project aims to provide reliable electricity to more than 300,000 people in remote areas of Nicaragua.

Moreover, this support not only brings in the necessary funds but also contributes to knowledge transfer and technology exchange, enhancing Nicaragua’s capabilities in sustainable energy development. Nicaragua’s bold steps toward harnessing wind power are transforming the nation’s energy landscape and, more importantly, the lives of its people.

In addition, the commitment to sustainable development, job creation and community empowerment exemplifies the potential of renewable energy as a catalyst for poverty alleviation. As the winds of change continue to blow, Nicaragua stands as a shining example of how strategic investments in clean energy can create a more equitable and prosperous future for a nation grappling with the challenges of poverty.

– Lauren McKenna
Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Nicaragua

Charities Operating in NicaraguaThe nation of Nicaragua lies on the edge of Central America and is home to 6.8 million people. As of 2021, 12.5% of the population is classified as living below the poverty line. Given the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters, a deficit in vocational training opportunities and heavy economic reliance on temperamental agriculture, Nicaragua is one of the poorest nations in the region. As such, it receives aid from many charitable organizations in areas of developmental improvement, with the hope of the country establishing sustainable economic independence. Below is a selection of five charities operating Nicaragua.

5 Charities Operating in Nicaragua

  1. Christian Aid: Established in 1945, Christian Aid establishes programs throughout Nicaragua that focus on tackling the causes of poverty. The charity trains 400 hibiscus, coffee and cocoa producers in farm management and provides more resilient, non-native crop breeds that are resistant to the effects of the changing climate. Christian Aid also champions the ideals of equitable taxation and works in collaboration with municipal governments to reduce the risk of violence to the nation’s most vulnerable.
  2. Amos Trust: Working alongside the Council of Protestant Churches of Nicaragua (CEPAD) the Amos Trust aids in the development of stronger and more sustainable rural communities through leadership training. Eight active programs tackle community organization, food security, environmental protection, family leadership, pastoral leadership training, education, a radio station, international partnerships and refugee support. Through the Amos Trust, the necessary funding of these efforts is satisfied, so that more communities can be reached.
  3. The Nicaragua Project: The Nicaragua Project utilizes its membership of physicians and coordinators to promote health care projects and medical programs across some of the most remote areas of northern Nicaragua. Its focus is on supplementing existing community health centers, which are often far away, lack appropriately qualified staff or are too poorly stocked to effectively provide for the area. The Nicaragua Project has trained 14 care providers in order to improve general health care and donated to expand their reach and services. The Nicaragua Project also supports a day shelter for girls that provides free meals, education, tutoring and scholarships.
  4. World Vision: World Vision is an international children’s charity that builds sustainable development programs that focus on agricultural assistance, diversification of income opportunities and the provision of clean drinking water. World Vision’s child sponsorship connects donors with more than 500,000 Nicaraguan children, giving them access to the tools and infrastructure they need to be healthy.
  5. Escuela Adelante: Escuela Adelante is a bilingual school that aims to provide an international education that reflects the diversity of San Juan del Sur, on the southern coast of Nicaragua. Since 2014, qualified bilingual professionals and a Spanish-English curriculum have provided high-quality tutoring for up to 250 preschool and primary school children a year. Escuela Adelante is open to all students of all backgrounds, cultures, fluency and financial situations, and it accepts donations in an effort to keep education accessible to all.

Looking Ahead

The efforts of these five charities operating in Nicaragua over the past 10 years have helped improve the Nicaraguan economy, but more work needs to occur. Each of these five charities working in Nicaragua focuses on distinct paths to improving the standard of living across the country, including addressing poverty, development, medicine and education. These organizations continue their efforts with the support of donors. 

– Brandon Murphy
Photo: Flickr

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Poverty and Mental Health in Nicaragua

Mental Health in NicaraguaNicaragua ranks among the countries in Latin America with low-income levels. Its population of 6.5 million faces challenges, with approximately 3.2% living on less than $1.90 per day and around 24.5% below the national poverty line. Widespread poverty in Nicaragua exacerbates mental health issues.

Living in poor conditions creates a challenging and unpredictable environment for families and communities in the area. It is widely known that poverty and socioeconomic disadvantages increase the chances of experiencing life events. In countries with development like Nicaragua, factors such as limited social connections, inadequate public services and insufficient public security contribute to these stress-inducing situations within these communities. Due to a struggling economy, access to health services is scarce for individuals, particularly the poorest. Consequently, they live in unsupportive environments, making it difficult for them to cultivate resilience or develop self-esteem.

The Impact of Poverty on Mental Health

Research indicates that individuals enduring poverty and social hardships often encounter a frequency and greater severity of life events (SLEs) compared to the general population from childhood and adolescence to adulthood. These SLEs have been linked to a range of mental health issues, ultimately diminishing the quality of life for those affected. In interviews conducted in León and Chinandega (Nicaragua), homeless women shared how their financial circumstances were influenced by the SLEs they experienced before reaching 18 years old and their age while experiencing them.

When asked about the life events that had an impact on their experience of homelessness, the women mentioned other factors. These included:

  • Having difficulties with their family.
  • Experiencing the loss of their mother and/or father.
  • Facing unemployment.
  • Enduring intimate partner violence.
  • Struggling with poverty and economic challenges.

Moreover, some interviewed women believed that certain significant life events contributed significantly to their situation. These events included:

  • The death of a partner.
  • Separation or abandonment by a partner.
  • Being abandoned by their children.
  • Substance abuse issues.
  • Lack of education opportunities.
  • Dealing with illness or health problems.

Additionally, one woman in each case indicated that becoming homeless was due to an accident, debt, or mismanagement of assets, time spent in prison, being a victim of rape, engaging in sex work, experiencing the death of a child, lacking family support, struggling with self-esteem issues or having experienced violence.

Health Care and Support Initiatives in Nicaragua

Médecins sans Frontier (MSF, Doctors Without Borders) is an initiative that offers medical assistance. Each day, the dedicated teams of Doctors Without Borders provide health care to individuals facing crises undertaking endeavors across over 70 nations. Since its establishment in 1971, MSF has positively impacted millions of lives, expanding from a group of 13 doctors and journalists to a movement comprising more than 45,000 individuals.

In Nicaragua, they provide psychological and psychiatric assistance to individuals affected by political and social violence. MSF’s initial mission in 1972 took place in Managua, the capital and largest city of Nicaragua. During that time, an earthquake devastated most of the city, claiming the lives of 10,000 to 30,000 people. In 2018, MSF returned to Nicaragua to support those experiencing anxiety, adjustment disorder and post-traumatic stress due to their exposure or personal experiences with events linked to civil unrest and political turmoil. Additionally, MSF conducted training sessions on health care, psychological first aid and self-help for community leaders, groups and educators. This training empowered them to provide support during crises.

Conclusion

Nicaragua’s intersection of poverty and mental health poses difficulties for individuals and communities. The combination of resources and inadequate access to necessary services and support worsens mental health problems. Organizations such as Doctors Without Borders play a part in offering psychiatric aid along with training to tackle these challenges. They assist individuals affected by social violence find ways to recover and build resilience amid adversity.

– Aysu Usubova
Photo: Flickr

Reducing Nicaragua’s Poverty Rate

Nicaragua’s Poverty Rate

Although Nicaragua remains one of the poorest countries in Central America,  the poverty rate has been cut in half in the last 10 years. Between 2005 and 2016, Nicaragua’s poverty rate fell from 48 percent to 25 percent. One reason for this dramatic reduction is industrialization. Over time, tourism and mining have become important to Nicaragua’s economic growth and stability.

According to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, the key to reducing poverty is “to mobilize private and public investments […] around a long-term inclusive and sustainable industrialization plan for export-oriented and job-creating industrial capacity.” The following are three areas that both keep the U.N.’s policy recommendation in mind and hold promise in reducing Nicaragua’s poverty rate.

The Impact of Tourism

Tourism is the second largest industry in Nicaragua and has grown significantly since the Nicaraguan Revolution in the 1980s. For the first time in Nicaraguan history, there were more than one million visits to the country in 2010. This is an 8 percent increase from 2009. The tourism industry is currently thriving and provides revenue to small businesses. Additionally, it provides income to poor Nicaraguans in rural areas.

Tropical islands and volcanoes, such as the Mombacho volcano and the Corn Islands, are two popular destinations that attract tourists from the U.S., Europe and Central and South America. In 2010, gross income from foreign tourism was approximately $360 million. This is a $15 million increase in gross income from the previous year.

Mining Sparks Economic Growth

Alongside tourism, there has also been an increase in gold mining production. Between 2006 and 2016, production has gone from more than 109,000 ounces to 267,000. The results are even greater for silver mining, which increased from 94,000 ounces in 2005 to almost 682,000 in 2016. Mining is steadily growing to become one of Nicaragua’s driving economic forces.

Gold, beef and coffee are the country’s top three exports. Gold production has doubled and is emerging as an important source of income to the Nicaraguan government and their citizens. For each dollar earned from mining, $.66 cents go to taxes, remuneration and acquisition of goods and services. This revenue can aid in investing in better farming equipment for poor farmers and creating jobs through emerging industries like mining.

Agricultural Advances Combat Nicaragua’s Poverty Rate

Nicaragua still remains an agriculture-dependent economy. About 50 percent of its exports come from textiles and the agriculture industry. Bananas, cotton, sugarcane, rice and tobacco are some of Nicaragua’s other exports. However, Nicaragua’s poverty rate remains high, especially in rural areas where extreme poverty is heavily concentrated.

Many in the agriculture industry are migrants who harvest crops for half the year and search for other work during the other half. By investing in farm equipment and technology, farmers of smaller plots have a chance to increase their income beyond than $2 a day.

An example of increasing crop quality and yields is shown through conservation tillage, which is transgenic insect control. This system decreases erosion, increases organic matter in soil and conserves soil moisture. Additionally, marker-assisted breeding and biotechnology traits are new developments that have been shown to increase yields and improve traits, such as grain moisture in corn.

Other traits include providing resistance to corn rootworm and borers. Lastly, diversification is another way to help those in the agriculture industry. If crop prices are unfavorable, another crop’s production would offset the negative effect of those prices.

There are several ways to reduce Nicaragua’s poverty rate. A combination of improvements in quality and quantity alongside the diversification of crops can help increase income to those in poverty.

– Lucas Schmidt
Photo: Flickr

Poverty in Nicaragua: Causes and Progress

Poverty in Nicaragua: Causes and Progress
Nicaragua is the poorest country in Central America. Rural poverty is a large portion of all poverty in Nicaragua. With a total population 6 million, 1.5 million of the rural populations are impoverished. Many factors contribute to the high rate of poverty, including political instability, natural disasters and lack of education. However, the government is implementing changes to improve the lives of impoverished Nicaraguans.

Political History

The Somoza family governed Nicaragua from 1930-1979. During this time, the unequal distribution of wealth left the majority of Nicaraguans in poverty. The Somozas allowed foreign companies to use Nicaraguan land and labor to make a profit off of agricultural crops and resources. With little government regulation, companies were able to keep wages low and deny their employees benefits.

In 1980, the Sandinistas National Liberation Front replaced the Somoza family. That same year civil war broke out between the Sandinistas and the Contras, a U.S. backed anti-communist group. The U.S., along with other countries, withdrew foreign investment and aid as well as halted trade with Nicaragua because they perceived the Sandinista government as a Communist threat. This put a strain on the economy since Nicaragua’s economy depends on agricultural exports.

Finally, in 1990 the civil war ended with the election of Violeta Chamorro. However, Nicaragua would continue to endure high rates of poverty caused by years of revolution and war.

Costly Natural Disasters

Nicaragua constantly endures hurricanes, floods and earthquakes that leave many individuals destitute. The 1972 Nicaraguan earthquake killed between 3,000 and 7,000 people and left 250,000 homeless. Hurricane Mitch caused severe rainfall in Nicaragua which left 750,000 homeless. It destroyed schools, crops and livestock. The damages totaled to over a billion dollars.

In response to the destruction from these disasters, government agencies and organizations like the Nicaraguan Red Cross created educational campaigns to inform Nicaraguans on how to prepare for natural disasters. They also distributed pamphlets and emergency phone numbers.

Local communities are also making natural disaster preparation a priority. Teachers on the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua, one of the poorest regions in the country, along with the Neighborhood Committee for Prevention, Mitigation and Disaster Response organized the School Safety Brigade. Children in the brigade are taught first aid, rescue and evacuation.

Education Reconsidered

Lack of education is also an issue in Nicaragua. Primary school is free and mandatory, but schools are often located far away from rural areas and are underfunded. The government only pays teacher salary, training and some school repairs. Therefore, school supplies and transportation become the parent’s responsibilities.

Often, children of poor families are removed from school and put to work or are forced to drop out because parents cannot afford the cost. According to the Education Policy Data Center, 37 percent of Nicaraguans ages 15-24 have not completed their primary education. Of that percentage, 28 percent live in rural areas.

To address educational issues, the Nicaraguan government created a plan that includes facilitating access to primary schools, especially to rural households, assuring completion of primary and secondary school and improving the quality of education. Funds from the U.S., European Union and the World Bank helped remodel schools and provide new textbooks and supplies.

Future of Nicaragua

Nicaragua has come a long way since the government of Somoza and the violent civil war. Nicaragua has shown promising improvements in the past few years specifically in addressing the problem of rural poverty such by increasing access and funding to schools so poor children can attend and helping citizens prepare for earthquakes and hurricanes that can potentially destroy farms. However, 29.6 percent of the population still lives under the national poverty line. Therefore, much still has to be done to minimize poverty in Nicaragua.

– Karla Umanzor

Photo: Flickr