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Neglected Tropical Diseases: Malaria in Cameroon

cameroon malariaAs the 53rd largest country in the world, Cameroon’s 183,000 miles of land mass supports a wide range of landscapes and microclimates. While some regions are extremely hot and dry, others are moist and humid due in part to multiple forests populating the areas. In fact, Cameroon’s Cross-Sanaga Bioko Coastal forests are considered one of the wettest regions on earth. This is due to the forest receiving between 20-30 feet of rainfall annually. While these microclimates support beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems, they also provide habitats for neglected tropical diseases such as malaria. With the country’s population of 29 million all being at risk for contracting this disease, Cameroon’s war against malaria will be extremely critical.

Malaria: A Neglected Tropical Disease in Cameroon

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) such as malaria are just that. Infectious diseases that occur primarily in tropical regions of the world. They are deemed neglected because there is minimal attention to addressing these diseases at both, national and global levels. To make matters worse, NTDs flourish in areas of poverty and where access to health care, sanitation and clean water is lacking.

Cameroon has an abundance of water around it. However, the country has minimal infrastructure in place to effectively convert this water into fresh drinking water. In fact, over half of the population living in rural areas of Cameroon, do not have access to clean drinking water.

Cameroon’s health care system has been severely hampered due to the ongoing internal conflicts. Close to 20% of the medical facilities are no longer operational. And those that are open, are struggling.  Besides the destruction of facilities, there is also a lack of health care workers to assist in Cameroon’s war against malaria.

Add to these issues the plethora of mosquito species present in the country, it is no surprise that malaria is the most prevalent NTD impacting Cameroon. Globally, Cameroon falls within the top 15 countries with a high malaria disease burden. Nationally, more than 6 million cases of malaria occur yearly.

The country reports an annual death rate from malaria to be under 5,000 with a high majority being young children. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) suspects that the number could be well over twice that figure. The data discrepancy is due in part to poor reporting in rural areas.

Fighting Malaria in Cameroon

Although the country still reflects high disease rates, Cameroon’s war against malaria is being fought on multiple fronts. The “No one shall die from malaria” pledge signed by the country’s Ministry of Health shows Cameroon’s determination to fight malaria. The pledge falls in line with WHO’s Global Technical Strategy and Targets for Malaria 2016-2030 guidelines.

Agencies such as the World Bank, Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOP) support Cameroon’s efforts to provide access to clean drinking water to all people.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the International Medical Corps are providing critical health service resources necessary to prevent and treat NTDs such as malaria.

WHO is clarifying prophylaxis treatment options for pregnant women. Cameroon is also implementing a malaria vaccination program for children with provisions from WHO, Gavi-the Vaccine Alliance, and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). The WHO is working closely with Cameroon’s Ministry of Health to outline plans on how to provide targeted responses in high disease-burden areas.

Data collected from the Vector Control to Fight Malaria Project is helping to recognize and understand mosquito patterns and activities. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring preventive tools such as insecticide-treated nets are still effective. This data also helps provide education to the community.

Summary

Being home to five different neglected tropical diseases, fighting malaria in Cameroon matters greatly for the country and its population, especially for young children and pregnant women.

Vaccinating young children has led to a significant decrease in disease and death rates of young children. WHO recognized Cameroon for being the first country to incorporate malaria vaccination into the general schedule for childhood immunization.

Many pregnant women have received insecticide-treated nets. And there is a stronger effort to support moms in receiving prophylaxis medication, and in assisting them with access to care during pregnancy.

Although the country made improvements to water infrastructures, there remains an inequitable gap between urban and rural populations having access to clean water. With almost one-quarter of the country’s population could be living in extreme poverty by 2026, addressing these concerns remains critical, and will be the best way to win Cameroon’s war against malaria.

– Kelly Chalupnik

Kelly is based in Kirkland, WA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy Efforts Promote Poverty Eradication in Serbia

Poverty Eradication in SerbiaLocated in the Southeast of Europe, Serbia is a beautiful country, West of the Balkan Peninsula. Known for its rich heritage, cultural traditions and the beauty of its natural landscapes, it is unsurprising that it draws in an average of 1.85 million tourists every year. However, despite the positive impact tourism has on the Serbian economy there is, nevertheless, a severe and widespread case of poverty that plagues Serbia. However, fortunately, efforts are in place for poverty eradication in Serbia.

Poverty in Serbia

Just over a quarter of Serbia’s population is considered to be living in poverty. Rural regions, primarily located in the south east of Serbia are much more severe, where poverty rates are four times higher than those in Belgrade, the country’s capital. Given how heavily the Serbian economy depends on its rural and small-scale farming communities, it is noteworthy that poverty is most prevalent in these areas.

These poorer communities also suffer challenges such as natural disasters (primarily floods), inadequate infrastructure and public services, contributing to the continued poverty and economic instability.

It is also key to note that during the 1990s, the area faced extreme conflict due to the  Yugoslav war, resulting in a significant economic downturn in many eastern European countries. Although global and national assessments reveal that infrastructure coverage has improved, there are still disparities in accessing housing, proper sanitation and education between rural and urban communities due to the long lasting devastation from this conflict.

The Innovative and Just Green Transition Project

Despite poverty proving to be a persistent challenge for Serbia, numerous innovations are underway by both the Serbian government and international aid organizations to combat and reduce poverty in the country. In recent years, Serbia has implemented many innovative approaches to combat poverty, focusing on sustainable development. A notable initiative is the Innovative and Just Green Transition project, launched in March 2023. The project focuses on energy poverty, particularly in the most vulnerable and rural parts of Serbia.

Since 2022, Serbia has been on a mission to build a greener, more sustainable future—thanks to financial backing of the Japanese government. This support has sparked the implementation of twenty innovative business solutions designed to drive the country’s Just Green Transition. One such initiative tackles landfill waste through large-scale recycling efforts, breathing new life into discarded materials.

Meris Ugljanin, a Serbian entrepreneur, is among those leading the charge. He is determined to cut energy costs and reduce his company’s environmental impact by installing solar panels and air-purifying filters. “Our goal was to switch to renewable energy,” he explains, hoping to inspire other businesses to follow suit. 

How the Just Green Movement Works

While the Just Green movement is committed to phasing out fossil fuels, it also recognizes the harsh reality that doing so will disrupt countless jobs tied to the industry. A sudden shift could leave many workers without a livelihood, creating economic uncertainty. To prevent this, the initiative is taking a proactive approach—offering support, retraining programs, and pathways into sustainable “green occupations.” By equipping those most affected with new skills and opportunities, Just Green aims to ensure that the transition to clean energy is not only environmentally responsible but also fair and inclusive. As Serbia moves forward, these changes mark not just progress, but a shift in mindset—one where sustainability and economic growth go hand in hand.  The Just Green Transition develops policies that will ensure access to affordable and clean energy, and aids in poverty eradication in Serbia.

The development of renewable energy is paramount for eradicating poverty and boosting Serbia’s economy as these projects not only reduce energy poverty but also stimulate economic growth by creating jobs and careers for Serbian’s. Encouraging new and innovative ways to produce green energy and lower energy consumption, resulting in both economic resilience and environmental sustainability.

Foreign Aid Efforts in Serbia

Foreign aid also plays a significant role in innovating new ways to eradicate poverty in Serbia. An example of this is a collaborative scheme between the Serbian Red Cross and UNICEF. This innovation provides aid for 500 families as part of the 1,000 Families from the Edge campaign. Deyana Kostadinova, a UNICEF Representative in Serbia, states that “UNICEF mobilized its own resources and engaged with the business sector and individuals to help raise funds to provide the poorest families with children the necessary financial aid to survive the winter.” The 1,000 Families from the Edge campaign was first implemented in 2022 and continues to provide humanitarian and financial aid for Serbia’s most vulnerable families.  

Looking To the Future

Although poverty is still a serious concern for Serbia, the country’s innovative approach to poverty eradication through renewable energy and foreign aid offers hope for a stronger economic future for the country. Renewable energy projects, such as those focusing on sustainable energy solutions in rural areas. Encouraging both economic resilience and environmental sustainability. These clean energy initiatives paired with the support of foreign aid has been vital in providing the necessary resources for Serbia’s vulnerable communities that have long been underserved. Serbia is paving the way for a resilient and inclusive economy. 

– Abbey G Malin

Abbey is based in Oxford, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikipedia Commons

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Ebola in Uganda: Strengthening Response and Prevention

Ebola in Uganda: Strengthening Response and Prevention
Since the initial discovery of orthoebolavirus during the 1976 disease outbreaks in Zaire and Sudan, nearly 40 additional incidences have occurred. While these Ebola disease (EBOD) episodes have been reported globally, Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for most of them. Countries such as Sierra Leone, Guinea and Uganda have all experienced EBOD outbreaks. In fact, Uganda itself has had several different episodes over the last 20 years. While these disease outbreaks cause harm and disruptiveness to many communities, they also provide valuable learning opportunities. Additionally, information that medical professionals glean from previous events can be useful for addressing future epidemics. To successfully control emerging outbreaks of Ebola disease in Uganda, medical professionals should heed lessons they learned from past orthoebolavirus outbreaks.

Knowledge Gains

Lessons learned from past orthoebolavirus outbreaks are plentiful and many partnerships between the country’s Ministry of Health (MOH) and global agencies have led to positive improvements for addressing Ebola disease in Uganda. These include:

Additionally, lessons learned from past orthoebolavirus outbreaks in Uganda involves supporting culturally appropriate burial processes. For this, the MOH is working closely with Uganda’s Red Cross teams. These teams include individuals from the community who understand the culture and who can work directly with those who have lost loved ones due to EBOD. Team members receive training in using personal protective equipment (PPE) and following rigid universal precaution requirements. This is especially important when addressing orthoebolavirus outbreaks.

Ongoing Challenges

While progress has occurred in addressing Ebola disease in Uganda, communication remains a challenge. Even though the government shares disease information about orthoebolavirus outbreaks, people do not always trust it and are hesitant about vaccines.

Because of the current Ebola disease in Uganda, many countries have implemented travel bans and advisories. Those in the tourist industry believe that the lack of clear communication from the government is causing a decrease in their revenue. This is significant for an industry that gained more than $1 billion in revenue during 2023. This is of great concern for the more than 42% of the people living in poverty.

Lessons learned from past othoebolavirus outbreaks also revealed the depth of distrust and culturally embedded conspiracy theories developed from previous Ebola disease in Uganda events. Some believe the outbreaks are a way for the government to remove certain populations or cover up the selling of people. They also believe that those infected with EBOD have had a hex cast upon them.

To remove communication barriers, more engagement with local communities needs to occur. Besides clear information, people also need increased education regarding Ebola disease in Uganda, especially as the country tries to initiate a new vaccine trial to fight the EBOD outbreak of 2025.

Summary

Uganda is located in East-Central Africa. It is home to six major lakes including Lake Victoria, which is the second-largest inland freshwater lake in the world. The country has a population of more than 48 million people of which almost 75% live in rural communities along Lake Victoria, roughly 72% of the rural population does not have access to improved sanitation facilities and nearly 20% of the rural population does not have access to clean drinking water.

These are significant aspects to consider when managing any orthoebolavirus outbreak. As Peter Piot, (the Belgium-British microbiologist involved with identifying Ebola) states, “We shouldn’t forget that this is a disease of poverty, of health systems and of distrust.” But with the lessons learned from past orthoebolavirus outbreaks and ongoing global support, efforts to contain future outbreaks of Ebola disease in Uganda will prevail.

– Kelly Chalupnik

Kelly is based in Kirkland, WA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Guinea Worm Disease: Nearing the End of a Neglected Disease

Guinea Worm DiseaseDracunculiasis, also called guinea worm disease (GWD), is a crippling parasitic infection that has afflicted humankind for thousands of years. The parasite Dracunculus medinensis causes this infection, which spreads when infected copepods (water fleas) contaminate drinking water. Historically endemic across large swathes of Africa, Asia and the Middle East, GWD has long been linked to excruciating pain, disabling disease and economic deprivation in affected populations. However, a global eradication campaign led by the Carter Center, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, has nearly eradicated this parasitic disease. The near-elimination of GWD highlights the power of coordinated global health efforts to combat neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Here is more information about guinea worm disease eradication across the world.

The Lifecycle of the Guinea Worm Parasite

People contract GWD when they drink water containing copepods infected with Guinea worm larvae. Once ingested, the copepods die, releasing larvae into the host’s body. The larvae penetrate the stomach and intestinal walls, eventually maturing into adult worms. Female worms, which can grow up to one meter long, migrate to the skin’s surface about one year after infection. The worm forms a painful blister, typically on the lower limbs, which eventually ruptures, allowing the worm to emerge over several weeks. This agonizing process causes intense pain, inflammation and secondary infections. Many victims submerge the affected area in water to seek relief, inadvertently releasing new larvae into the water source and completing the transmission cycle.

Health and Socioeconomic Impact

Although rarely fatal, guinea worm disease wreaks havoc on affected communities. The intense physical pain and immobility render individuals unable to work, farm or attend school. In rural agricultural settings, this loss of productivity can jeopardize food security and local economies. Beyond health consequences, GWD perpetuates cycles of poverty, increasing economic strain on already overburdened healthcare systems.

Global Guinea Worm Disease Eradication Campaign

In 1986, GWD affected 3.5 million people annually across 20 countries. The Carter Center spearheaded a global guinea worm disease eradication campaign to combat this debilitating disease. The strategy included four main interventions: improving access to safe drinking water using water filters, conducting health education to promote behavior changes, containing cases to prevent water contamination and applying larvicides to kill copepods in stagnant water. By 2023, these efforts reduced cases to a handful in South Sudan, Chad, Mali and Ethiopia, with most countries, such as Ghana and Nigeria, declared free of GWD.

Challenges Eradicating GWD

Despite significant progress, several challenges impede the final push toward eradication. Guinea worm infections in animals, primarily dogs in Chad, complicate efforts to interrupt transmission. Political instability and conflict in countries like South Sudan and Mali hinder surveillance and containment efforts. Environmental factors, such as changing weather and shifting water patterns, may also alter transmission dynamics, creating new challenges for eradication teams.

The Role of Community Engagement

Community involvement has been the cornerstone of the eradication campaign. Empowering local populations to take ownership of the process has accelerated progress. Several community-driven initiatives have played crucial roles in combating guinea worm disease (GWD) with measurable successes.

In 2010, Chad implemented a cash reward program, offering financial incentives to individuals who reported suspected cases of GWD in humans. In 2015, this program was expanded to include reports of infections in animals, significantly improving case detection and containment efforts. Public awareness campaigns through radio, television and community outreach have been key to the program’s success.

Another critical initiative launched in South Sudan, where extensive surveillance networks originated, engaging thousands of volunteers to track and report cases. By 2018, these efforts led to the country announcing the interruption of GWD transmission after 15 consecutive months of zero reported cases.

Health workers and volunteers have also played an essential role in educating communities on water filtration and promoting early case reporting. In addition, local leaders have enforced containment measures and promoted safe water practices, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and resilience in affected areas. Through these sustained efforts, community engagement continues to be a driving force in the final push toward eradicating guinea worm disease.

Looking Ahead

The near-eradication of guinea worm disease represents a historic milestone in global health. It demonstrates how long-term collaboration among diverse partners, community engagement and innovative solutions can overcome even the most persistent health challenges. While obstacles remain, the lessons learned from this campaign will inform future efforts against other NTDs. Achieving eradication will improve millions of lives and affirm that with the right tools and strategies, even the most neglected diseases can be defeated.

– Maheer Zaman

Maheer is based in Fairfax, VA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Urgent Humanitarian Aid: UK Government Pledges £61 Million

Urgent Humanitarian AidIn December 2024, the U.K. government pledged £61 million for urgent humanitarian aid. The Development Office has designated the money for addressing humanitarian crises caused by escalating conflict in the Middle East, the tropical cyclone Chido and to aid internally displaced people in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Cyclone Chido

The U.K. government designated up to £5 million to aid those that cyclone Chido in Mozambique affected. Cyclone Chido hit Mozambique in December 2024, with winds of more than 200 km/h an hour and 176 mm of rainfall within 24 hours, causing widespread destruction. Chido marked the beginning of the South-West Indian Ocean tropical cyclone season.  According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Chido has been the worst cyclone to hit the region in about 90 years. High wind speeds, heavy rainfall and storm surges accompany cyclones, which leads to widespread damage and flooding. Chido’s destruction injured 768 people with more than 622,00 people affected by the cyclone.

The cyclone has destroyed more than 35,000 homes and affected more than 90,000 children in Cabo Delgado in Northern Mozambique, according to UNICEF. Along with homes, the cyclone severely damaged classrooms and health facilities. Cabo Delgado has seen seven years of brutal conflict, which displaced more than 1.3 million people, the majority of which were women and children, before Cyclone Chido wreaked havoc in Mozambique. There are currently 4.8 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in Mozambique, of which 3.4 million are children.

The U.K. aims to reach about 350,000 people in need of humanitarian assistance in Mozambique by providing immediate shelter, clean water and sanitation. Further, the £5 million designated for humanitarian relief in Mozambique aims to ensure that the country is better prepared for the rest of the 2024-2025 cyclone season by coordinating with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, according to the U.K. Government.

Bangladesh

The U.K. Government committed £5 million of humanitarian aid for Bangladesh to provide shelter, healthcare and clean water in the Rohingya refugee camps. The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic minority group residing in predominantly Buddhist Myanmar, where they are not recognized by the state and denied citizenship. As of August 2024, about 1 million Rohingya have sought refuge in Bangladesh after fleeing from prosecution in Myanmar. The U.K. government has given urgent humanitarian relief to the UNHCR, the IOM and UNICEF.

Somalia

The Development Office has designated another £5 million to support the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and its efforts in Somalia to provide emergency assistance, basic health care, food and water. The ICRC has been operating in Somalia since 1977 and provides humanitarian relief to families in Somalia that are affected by years of armed conflict and climatic shocks.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Another £5 million will be given to the World Food Programme (WPF) to support its efforts in the DRC, where currently 25.6 million people are facing crisis and emergency levels of food insecurity. The DRC faces one of the largest hunger crises in the world. Armed conflicts within the country have displaced a large part of the population and hunger continues to grow. The U.K.’s aid will deliver assistance to about 48,000 people and help address their immediate needs.

Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger

Due to the ongoing food crisis in the Sahel region, the U.K. Government aid package designated up to £8 million to provide food assistance in partnership with the ICRC, which is providing humanitarian aid in the region due to ongoing droughts and soaring food prices, which have exacerbated food insecurity in the region, Currently more than 3 million people in Niger and 3 million people in Burkina Faso are facing emergency food insecurity.

Myanmar

The U.K. Government has allocated a further £11 million of aid to address the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. The money will provide lifesaving treatments for malaria and provide access to lifesaving sexual health and maternal health treatments. Myanmar has a maternal mortality ratio of 282 compared to the Southeast Asian average rate of 140. This means that out of 100,000 live births, there are 282 related deaths. Most of these deaths are related to postpartum bleeding, unsafe abortion and sepsis, which with the right treatment and care are mostly preventable.

Middle East

The U.K. government dedicated £22 million of aid, the largest portion of the package, to address the escalating crisis in the Middle East, which came shortly after the Prime Minister allocated £13 million to UNRWA on December 11, 2024, supporting essential services for Palestinian refugees across the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. Later in December, the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary committed over £60 million to aid Syrians through various UN humanitarian funds and the U.K. Aid Fund for Northern Syria, according to the U.K. Government.

Addressing Humanitarian Crises

This urgent humanitarian aid package demonstrates the U.K. government’s continued commitment to addressing humanitarian crises worldwide through strategic partnerships with U.N. agencies and international organizations like the ICRC, WFP and UNICEF. The distribution of funds across multiple regions reflects a balanced approach to global humanitarian assistance, with particular emphasis on immediate crisis response in the Middle East, climate disaster relief in Mozambique, and addressing food insecurity in the Sahel region. However, this commitment operates within the context of the U.K.’s reduced overseas aid spending from 0.7% to 0.5% of GDP, raising questions about the scale of future humanitarian interventions despite the government’s evident willingness to respond to urgent global crises.

– Salome von Stolzmann

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Initiatives Ensuring Access to Clean Water in Ethiopia

Clean Water in EthiopiaEthiopia faces a significant water crisis, with roughly 60 million of its 126 million citizens lacking access to safe drinking water. This issue is compounded by surface water pollution, resulting from the country’s rapid population growth, urbanization and inadequate waste management. However, several nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and government agencies have implemented initiatives to ensure access to clean water in Ethiopia.

WaterAid’s Deliver Life Project

WaterAid works from a bottom-up approach to alleviate water contamination in Ethiopia through the “Deliver Life” project. WaterAid has shared this project with 128,259 people from 177 communities to help relieve water contamination and related illnesses. This initiative focuses on tackling dirty water, creating sanitary toilets and teaching good hygiene practices.

WaterAid’s project successfully provided 10 Ethiopian schools access and resources to address water contamination. This was achieved through the distribution of water points, water supply systems, gender-separated toilets and teachings on hygiene and menstrual hygiene. WaterAid also taught eight small businesses how to manage liquid and solid waste. Furthermore, they provided waste vehicles to help reduce the likelihood of water contamination from poor sanitation.

UNICEF and ONEWASH

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works with the Ethiopian government on the ONEWASH National Programme, a widespread national appeal to follow water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). This collaboration targets water contamination by producing specific fecal and chemical contamination standards, sharing resources on hygiene practices and building water systems that prioritize cleanliness.

UNICEF and ONEWASH help prevent water contamination by improving hygiene standards and water cleanliness, reducing water-related disease and infection.

Water4Ethiopia

Water4Ethiopia fundraises to supply clean water sites in Ethiopia. Following funding, volunteers work with nonprofit organizations to find a clean-water site. The nonprofit organizations oversee the building and construction of springs or wells and ensure that local people are involved in the process from start to finish.

The wells and springs ensure that the local community has continuous access to clean water despite infectious diseases in the area. Water4Ethiopia has benefited more than 5,000 people to date.

City-Wide Inclusive Sanitation

The City-Wide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS) project in Ethiopia strives to address water contamination and improve sanitation in four towns in Ethiopia: Sheno, Welenchiti, Maksegnit and Kebridehar. This approach ensures that all locals, even those from low-income backgrounds within these towns, can get clean water.

This is achieved through initiatives that tailor solutions to specific areas, such as analyzing which technologies will improve certain areas. For example, in smaller, rural settlements, CWIS implements on-site sanitation, whereas in cities, CWIS provides sewers. This program ensures that clean water is accessible for everyone, regardless of background, helping to reduce water contamination by improving access to a clean, fresh supply.

Rainwater Harvesting

The Ethiopian Ministry of Water and Energy has developed a method for collecting clean water using rainwater. Ethiopia’s lack of sanitary water sources means many people turn to ponds or rivers. These sources are often contaminated and cause illness. The rainwater harvesting approach is active nationally, reaching nearly 70% of the population.

It utilizes roof water, which is generally of decent to good quality, making it potable and much less likely to cause disease or illness than water from rift valleys. Approximately 4 million people now have access to clean water through rainwater harvesting. This brings the total number of Ethiopians with access to clean drinking water to just less than 75 million.

Conclusion

Ethiopia’s ongoing battle against water contamination is being addressed through various initiatives that improve access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education. Indeed, projects like WaterAid’s Deliver Life, UNICEF’s ONEWASH, and rainwater harvesting have benefited millions. Sustained efforts and collaboration will be essential in expanding these successes and ensuring safe water for all Ethiopians.

– Ella Dorman

Ella is based in Worcestershire, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Education in Cambodia: Addresses Inequalities

Education in CambodiaCambodia’s education system has undergone significant changes over the years. Education in Cambodia initially centered around Buddhist teachings, taught to boys by local monks. In the mid-1860s, a second system emerged, introducing subjects like math, science and history, taught by trained teachers. However, during the mid to late 1970s, the education system collapsed. While Cambodia’s education system has since recovered and continues to improve, challenges persist. Vulnerable populations face significant barriers to accessing and attending school, perpetuating cycles of poverty. Deep-rooted cultural beliefs and attitudes regarding education for marginalized groups worsen these challenges.

Types of Inequality in Education

  • Gender Inequality. Chbab Srey and Chbab Proh, ancient Cambodian texts, outline gender roles and emphasize subservience for women. Chbab Proh positions men as breadwinners and decision-makers, while Chbab Srey dictates that women maintain the household, speak softly and obey their husbands. These traditional ideologies remain deeply ingrained in Cambodian culture. As a result, many families remove girls from school to prioritize household duties. This limited access to education significantly impacts their opportunities, perpetuating poverty for women and their families.
  • Child Inequality. Children in Cambodia face numerous forms of exploitation, preventing them from receiving education. Forced labor, human trafficking and other abuses disrupt their ability to attend school. According to the Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB), Cambodia leads in child labor violations, with many children used as debt payments or forced into labor. High rates of institutionalization further exacerbate these issues, as children placed in residential care become more vulnerable to abuse and neglect. The lack of education for children under these conditions deepens inequality.
  • Inequality for Persons with Disabilities. A joint assessment by the Cambodia Development Resource Institute and UNESCO found that 24% of Cambodia’s population lives with a disability. UNICEF reports that children with disabilities face three times the risk of missing school compared to those without disabilities. Cultural stigma against disabilities isolates individuals and prevents their participation in social and educational activities. This exclusion increases the likelihood of poverty among people with disabilities, further entrenching inequality.

Educational Programs Tackling Inequality

Cambodia has initiated several programs to address inequality through education:

  • Inclusive Education Action Plan (2024–2028). This plan, a partnership between UNICEF and Cambodia’s Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS), aims to improve access to education for students with disabilities. It identifies necessary technologies and services while addressing societal stigma.
  • Education Strategic Plan (ESP) 2024–2028. A collaboration between the Royal Government of Cambodia, the NGO Education Partnership and MoEYS, this initiative focuses on ensuring high-quality, inclusive education for all students.
  • National Social Protection Policy Framework (2016–2025). Jointly developed by UNICEF and the Ministry of Social Affairs, this framework addresses violence against children and promotes child well-being. It also seeks to reduce reliance on residential care facilities and improve child protection services.
  • USAID Collaboration. USAID has worked with MoEYS to improve child protection services and prevent family separation. By promoting alternative care and strengthening child welfare systems, this collaboration ensures that children remain with their families whenever possible.
  • U.N.-CEDAW Initiative. The United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) urged Cambodia to remove Chbab Srey from schools. Although the text remains part of literature and social studies courses, this reform reduces the reinforcement of outdated gender norms.

Moving Forward

Cambodia’s efforts to address inequality through education reflect a commitment to improving the lives of its citizens. With women representing more than 51% of the population, adolescents and children making up 35% and 20% of the population living on just over $2 a day, addressing these disparities remains critical. Programs like the Inclusive Education Action Plan and the Education Strategic Plan demonstrate Cambodia’s determination to tackle inequality. Collaborative efforts between the Cambodian government, NGOs and international organizations continue to drive progress. By investing in education and addressing systemic inequalities, Cambodia builds a stronger foundation for future generations.

– Kelly Chalupnik

Kelly is based in Kirkland, WA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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AI Innovations Improve Health care in Kenya

Health care in Kenya Kenya is currently experiencing a boom in medical AI innovations. From the minds of hardworking scientists and medical groups, sprouts one solution to a modern health care crisis. Efficient and effective health care in Kenya is limited. The industry is in need of additional medical professionals and general resources.

Additionally, the amount of health care providers in Kenya is extremely disproportionate to its population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Kenya employs approximately 2.9 medical doctors per 10,000 residents (compared to 30 or more in most developed countries).

This leads to an especially prominent gap in health care in rural areas of Kenya, where resources are most scarce. In recent years, health providers have utilized AI to analyze output from imaging machines and prescribe possible treatments.

Innovation in Medical Imaging: NeuralSight

Neural Labs Africa, based in Kenya, has developed NeuralSight to aid in medical diagnosis. The team aims to provide earlier diagnoses with their AI program. This technology could decrease the high rate of deaths from preventable diseases in Africa, such as pneumonia and tuberculosis.

These diseases particularly impact populations in rural and low-income areas that experience a lack of access to medical testing and treatment. AI technologies like NeuralSight additionally supplement health workers who are overwhelmed by their number of patients.

More efficient X-rays and MRI analysis will also improve the detection of developmental disorders and medical conditions in children, leading to overall better quality of life in African populations.

NeuralSight has already found success in its clinical trials with shorter wait times for medical results. The organization shared their experience conducting clinical testing in a remote Kenyan village. “This moment solidified the importance and impact of our work. The key lesson was the realization of the vast potential of our tool in regions with limited medical resources,” Neural Labs told UNICEF.

Dr. Fredrick Mutisya’s Solution to Antimicrobial Resistance

In conjunction with medical testing, there is a need for accurate and effective prescriptions. Dr. Fredrick Mutisya is innovating antibiotic prescriptions through AI, which has the potential to reduce increasing antimicrobial resistance.

Dr. Mutisya studied antibiotic resistance by looking at Pfizer’s antibacterial surveillance data (2004-2021). He then developed Antimicro.ai with Dr Rachael Kanguha to assist healthcare providers in Kenya. The program detects possible antibiotic resistance and produces a preliminary prescription to be confirmed by a medical professional.

Antimicro.ai has determined that antibiotic resistance stretches as high as 50% based on data from over 850,000 samples from 83 countries, according to Gavi. Considering its projection that resistance could reach 80% by 2030, careful prescriptions are of paramount importance.

The AI program is open-access and doesn’t store user data. This sets the example for emerging AI technologies to remain ethical and equitable.

The Future of AI Programs for Health Care in Kenya

Still, additional data collection is on the horizon. Pfizer’s medical data is limited. According to Gavi, it is currently biased toward European and Central Asian populations, with sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia making up only 2% of observed populations.

More data is necessary to produce AI programs modeled on health care in Kenya and other African countries. Relying on European data models could lead to diagnostic errors.

The Bureau of Standards recently published a code of practice for AI Applications. The report likewise notes a concern with bias in data procurement.

AI programs for health care in Kenya are in the early stages of development. Yet, innovation is moving quickly. The Gates Foundation committed more than $1 million to Science for Africa (based in Nairobi, Kenya) to launch an RFP in 2023. The RFP encouraged African innovators to develop AI tools for health care. Among its many initiatives, Science for Africa (SFA) focuses on supporting AI developers in the medical field sector.

Kenya is an epicenter for developments in AI. Medical AI has already increased access to health services in remote and poverty-stricken areas of Kenya. With the right support and persistence, this will lead to greater well-being in the country and further innovation globally.

– Sarah Lang

Sarah is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Learning Poverty Among the Bidoon in Kuwait

Bidoon in Kuwait
Kuwait is known as one of the world’s richest countries, though more than half of children over the age of 10 are not reading proficiently. This phenomenon called learning poverty is unfairly affecting the children of Kuwait, highlighting the gaps in education equity and quality. In particular, learning poverty is affecting Bidoon children, a marginalized group in Kuwait. Here is more information about learning poverty among the Bidoon in Kuwait.

Elements of Child Poverty in Kuwait

Child poverty and overall poverty levels in Kuwait are reportedly just above 0%, according to the Nations Encyclopedia. Though experiencing levels of economic abundance, that has proved inefficient when addressing education poverty. Learning poverty runs through Kuwait’s youth, especially hurting marginalized groups like the Bidoon. 

The Bidoon (short for “bidoon jinsiya”) in Kuwait are descendants of undocumented individuals who did not gain Iraqi citizenship at the state’s founding. Despite living in a wealthy region like Kuwait, they face high poverty rates and limited accessibility to resources as stateless individuals.

Kuwait ranks above average among the Middle East and North Africa (MNA) countries when measuring child learning poverty. The World Bank April 2024 Kuwait Learning Poverty Brief shows that 51% of late primary age children in Kuwait are not proficient in reading. Kuwait measures 2% less than the MNA average of children in learning poverty.

Although this is statistically above average, stable education is what children in Kuwait need to improve overall health and prosperity. Ensuring children are in school relates directly to social challenges facing Kuwait families such as early marriage, mental health and child nutrition, according to the World Bank’s “From Learning Recovery to Education Transformation” executive summary.

What is Learning Poverty?

Learning poverty is the inability to read and understand proficiently by the age of 10. The World Bank measures learning poverty through assessments and enrollment data, concluding that 53% of the MNA faces learning poverty.

Factors that also contribute to learning poverty are learning deprivation and school deprivation. Learning deprivation is the share of students reading below the minimum proficiency level, which exposes the inequality and disadvantage that the poor in Kuwait face. School deprivation represents children who are not enrolled in any schooling.

Learning and school deprivation pose a threat to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which the United Nations set in place in 2015 to unite the globe in successfully attaining prosperity for all by 2030. The fourth goal is for inclusive and quality education for all.

In Kuwait’s case, learning deprivation for April 2024 was measured at 49% and school deprivation was 3%. In order to ensure education is a priority, each child needs the opportunity.

How are Bidoon Children Facing Disadvantages?

An article by Aisha Elgayar for Arij emphasized the difficult lifestyle of the Bidoon children, described as “living in the shadows” of a lavish country surrounding them. Inherited restrictions put on them keep them from receiving basic rights like education, general employment and birth/marriage certificates.

Along with restricted access to economic freedom and political rights, the Bidoon also face health concerns due to limited supply of fresh water and electricity. The lack of data regarding the Bidoon community also reflects in the lack of aid they receive.

One can see child poverty in Kuwait through the Bidoon population, which was between 83,000 and 120,000 as of August 2024. The continued negligence to these undocumented children indicate ill-equipped schools and unequal circumstances.

Solutions

UNICEF, UNESCO and the World Bank created the RAPID strategy in response to COVID-19 to solve learning issues at the source for each child. This framework represents mending the five parts of education reconstruction; Reach, Access, Prioritize, Increase and Develop. Before COVID-19, findings showed that learning at an accelerated rate was possible in the Middle East. The steps from this program ensure that each student is practicing foundational skills.

RAPID prioritizes reaching every child, assessing learning levels regularly, focusing on teaching the fundamentals, increasing efficiency of instruction and developing psychosocial health.

In regards to marginalized and stateless groups such as the Bidoon population, the RAPID strategy works to transform the way these children learn and breaks down barriers that hold them back from accessing education. The World Bank and UNICEF support a “reach-all” initiative, entailing multiple modes of learning and flexible learning programs. UNICEF’s RAPID’s 2024 findings show that the RAPID framework has been established in Kuwait.

After Kuwait shut the Bidoon out of public education in 1992, efforts have been made to advance their right to education. For example, in 2014, the Katateeb Al-Bidoon Initiative, which Yusuf al-Bishiq led, created an after-school program for Bidoon children for one short semester, but its lifespan provides insight into how a transformative future is possible. Katabeeb al-Bidoon embraces a practical system that could be successful if implemented in the future.

Looking Ahead

While statistically, Kuwait is one of the leading countries in the Middle East in wealth and income, learning poverty highly impacts Bidoon children. Hopefully, UNICEF’s RAPID strategy will eliminate learning poverty among the Bidoon in Kuwait moving forward.

– Rachael Wexler

Rachael is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Malnutrition in South Sudan

Malnutrition in South SudanSouth Sudan is believed to have one of the highest malnutrition rates among children, with an unsettling rate of 1.4 million. This problem extends to adults, as shown by the estimation that 7.8 million adults face food insecurity at some level. What makes the situation in South Sudan unique is that these are the highest levels of malnutrition in its history, making the nation a top priority for global aid agencies in the past years.

About Malnutrition

Malnutrition is a serious issue directly correlated to extreme poverty, making access to basic necessities like food essential when supporting developing nations. Tremendous steps have been taken in the global fight against malnutrition, largely driven by foreign aid. Foreign aid enables developing countries to invest in sustainable agriculture, ensuring food security until they can establish self-sustaining systems.

Efforts to combat malnutrition often start with direct food assistance, followed by investments in sustainable agriculture. While this approach is generally effective, some countries face external challenges that hinder progress, such as natural disasters and conflicts, which disrupt food production and distribution.

What Makes South Sudan’s Situation Different

South Sudan faces external challenges that complicate the fight against malnutrition, with one of the primary issues being widespread flooding. The region has endured severe flooding for several years, resulting in extensive damage. Areas affected by these floods often experience high levels of malnutrition.

The flooding hampers foreign aid efforts by preventing resources from reaching certain areas. For malnutrition, the issue lies in the inability of crops to produce sufficient yields. The combination of these problems makes the whole situation much harder to control. Another thing making things harder for South Sudan is the recent war. War has displaced millions of people in South Sudan, making the problem harder to track and keep control over.

Organizations Helping

The combined efforts of major organizations such as the World Food Programme (WFP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have helped with damage control. WFP has supported more than 600,000 people in South Sudan with fortified biscuits, cash transfers and nutrition support for children and mothers.

Similarly, UNICEF has responded to the needs of people affected and displaced by floods by providing them with basic supplies, such as soap, drugs and education materials. The organization has also strengthened local communities’ flood resilience and preparedness efforts, “including pre-positioning supplies during the dry season when roads are still accessible.”

Conclusion

Addressing malnutrition in South Sudan requires sustained international support and innovative solutions to overcome the country’s unique challenges. While foreign aid and humanitarian organizations have played a crucial role in providing immediate relief, long-term strategies such as improving flood resilience, strengthening food security and restoring stability remain essential. As South Sudan continues to face the highest malnutrition rates in its history, ongoing global efforts will be vital in ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the necessary resources to survive and build a more sustainable future.

– Kaleb Monteith

Kaleb is based in Greeley, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr