POVERTY IN AFRICA

SOMALIA, NIGER, SOUTH SUDAN, AND DRC

Somalia:
Following the aftermath of civil war and prolonged conflict, Somalia is now one of the most
impoverished nations in the world. This is largely due to the collapse of the Somali Democratic
Republic in 1991, an event that divided the country. War waged, killing thousands of native
Somalis. Conflict flipped the lives of the Somali people upside down in what seemed like an
instant. Many had to flee their homes in order to survive. Today, the poverty rate in Somalia is
73%, leaving most of what is left of the nation poor and struggling to survive. (Page,2020)
For the last 33 years, Somalia has been in a civil war through its 64 years of existence.
This has been caused largely by disagreements between the Somali Patriotic Movement (SPM)
and the Somali Democratic Alliance (SDA), which sparked a civil war that claimed the lives of
over a million Somalians and displaced over 4 million. Most of the deaths were soldiers who
were mainly able-bodied men who were the breadwinners of their families. Their death left their
family without any source of income leaving them to fend for themselves. The disruption of
traditional economic activities has been a hallmark of the conflict. Agriculture, trade, and
livestock farming, once the lifeblood of the Somali economy, were severely impacted as the
conflict led to the displacement of people and the destruction of vital infrastructure. The inability
of farmers to cultivate their lands due to insecurity resulted in food shortages, exacerbating
economic decline. In response to the conflict, many Somalis turned to the informal economy for
survival. While informal activities provided a means of subsistence, they often lacked stability,
legal protection, and growth opportunities, perpetuating a cycle of poverty for those engaged in
such activities.

The lack of an active central government is a leading cause of poverty. The fractured condition
that Somalia is in renders it impossible for it to put policies in place. Moreover, the region of
Somaliland declares itself as an independent country. Somaliland has been fortunate enough to
experience more stability than the rest of the country. It has even been able to rebuild much of its
infrastructure since 1991. Although internationally recognized as a part of Somalia, the
government of Somaliland refuses to attend “peace talks aimed at unifying” the nation.
Somaliland acts as an example of how the division in the nation’s government increases the
nation’s poverty as a whole. (Alexis Page,2020)
The ongoing conflict and instability in Somalia deterred foreign investment and disrupted
trade routes, further isolating the country from the global economy. This hindered economic
growth and perpetuated poverty, as the nation struggled to rebuild and reintegrate into the
international community. The international community such as the U.N. and other NGO’s tried to
contribute heavily towards helping the Somali cause but due to their division, it was ineffective.
When the U.N. offered aid, the previous communist head of state Siad Barre would only give
food to clans that supported him leaving thousands to suffer. UNOSOM I and UNOSOM II were
launched in 1992 and 1993, respectively. These missions focused on providing humanitarian
assistance, restoring law and order, and supporting the establishment of a functioning
government. Peacekeeping efforts were deployed to create a secure environment for
humanitarian activities. Till today the U.N. plays a crucial role in coordinating international
assistance and cooperation for Somalia. Working closely with other international organizations,
donor countries, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the U.N. aims to ensure a
cohesive and effective response to the complex challenges facing the country. However, Somalia
still stays resistant to peacekeeping talks which poses a barrier to the progression of the peace in
the country. Luckily, The U.N. continues to adapt its strategies to address evolving needs and
works in collaboration with the Somali government, regional organizations, and the international
community to bring about positive change in the country.

The mortality rate in Somalia is high because of this poverty. About 70% of the Somali
population is 30-years-old or younger. The life expectancy rate is roughly 57 years. This low life
expectancy is due to a variety of poverty-related causes, such as poor infrastructure, lack of
formal access to health care and sanitation issues. The havoc that civil war unleashed on the
country has resulted in poor infrastructure. Because infrastructure is so poor, access to electricity,
clean water and other basic utilities varies from household to household with most lacking one or
more.

Somalis must pay for everything by either bartering, working or selling what they have. This
process takes a severe toll on their mental and physical health. The lack of health insurance
makes treating these resulting health issues nearly impossible for Somalis since most cannot
afford private health care. This cycle continues and builds upon itself, furthering the state of
poverty that Somalia is already facing. Furthermore, there are few jobs available for young
Somalis as the nation has remained in shambles from the violence over the past 20 years. The
result is 67% of the youth in Somalia do not have jobs or a way to pay for their basic needs.
(Alexis Page, 2020)
The collapse of governmental institutions during the Civil War played a pivotal role in
perpetuating poverty. Law enforcement and regulatory bodies ceased to function, leading to an
environment of lawlessness that hindered economic growth and investment. Basic services, such
as education and healthcare, crumbled without a functioning government, further deepening the
economic crisis. The education system in Somalia suffered immensely due to the civil war.
Schools closed, teachers fled conflict zones, and educational infrastructure was damaged or
repurposed for military use. The lack of access to education perpetuated a cycle of poverty, as a
skilled and educated workforce is essential for economic development. The exodus of healthcare
professionals escaping the conflict worsened the situation, resulting in a shortage of skilled
personnel and a diminished ability to offer quality healthcare. Supply chains for medicines,
vaccines, and medical supplies were disrupted, causing shortages and making it challenging to
address health needs effectively. The displacement of populations, coupled with overcrowded
living conditions in refugee camps and limited access to clean water and sanitation, increased the
prevalence of infectious diseases and health risks. Maternal and child health were particularly
affected, with limited access to prenatal care, skilled birth attendants, and immunizations
contributing to higher mortality rates, crumbling the country as a whole. This heavily contributed
to the fall in life expectancy falling to as low as 57 years as of 2020.

As long as the nation remains divided and people must resort to violence for basic needs such as
food and water, the problem of poverty in Somalia will persist. Successful nations that
understand how to help must invest more time and money into aiding the people of Somalia.
Save the Children Somalia is a successful NGO that works to end child poverty in Somalia by
raising money and using it to directly impact the children living within this impoverished nation.

The organization provides health, nutrition, water, sanitation, hygiene, education and food
security services to impoverished Somalis. It also communicates with the Somali government to
implement better strategies in these areas. By the end of 2017, Save the Children had reached
2,814,381 people, 1,717,809 were Somali children. The organization has different branches for
child protection, education and children’s rights.

War and conflict have taken Somalia from a home to a land of poverty and struggle. Since the
Civil War, Somalia has been trying to pick up the pieces of a life that once was. With the help of
nonprofit organizations and efforts, there is hope that one day Somalia can overcome poverty and
rise again as a strong nation for its people. (Alexis Page,2020)
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and individuals have vital roles to play in
contributing to positive change in Somalia amid the challenges posed by the protracted conflict
and its aftermath. They’ve helped with humanitarian assistance by delivering essential services
such as food aid, clean water, healthcare, and shelter. Capacity building in local communities is
crucial, encompassing training in agriculture, healthcare, and education to empower individuals
and enhance self-sufficiency. Healthcare programs can be established to rebuild infrastructure,
train healthcare professionals, and ensure access to essential medical services. Education
initiatives are vital to rebuilding the education system, providing access to quality education, and
addressing challenges faced by children affected by the conflict. Livelihood programs contribute
to economic stability by helping individuals generate income and reducing dependence on
informal and unsustainable means of survival. Advocacy for human rights, because the rights of
many Somailans have been severely violated and the children need to be protected. Now what
can YOU do to help the dire situation in Somalia, well you can start by donating to NGOs to
improve the situation. The NGOs have been proven to be saving lives and helping in the
progression of peace. You can also help by raising awareness about the ongoing challenges in
Somalia through social media and other channels to foster understanding and encourage broader
support. Advocacy efforts with policymakers for policies addressing root causes of the conflict,
peacebuilding, and sustainable development are impactful. Educating others about Somalia's
history, culture, and challenges fosters empathy and understanding.

Niger:
In 2021, the United Nations designated Niger as the least developed country globally, closely
followed by the Central African Republic, Chad, Burundi, and South Sudan. Unfortunately,
Niger's situation has worsened over the years, marked by a dire humanitarian context
exacerbated by insecurity, hunger, the climate crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Insecurity is a significant issue, with conflicts and violence hindering economic development and
creating a sense of instability. Hunger is pervasive, driven by factors like drought, poor
agricultural practices, and limited access to resources. The climate crisis, with its attendant
challenges like extreme weather events and desertification, further compounds the difficulties
faced by the population.
Moreover, the global COVID-19 pandemic has added an additional layer of complexity,
impacting both health and the economy. All these factors contribute to a vicious cycle of poverty,
making it exceptionally challenging for millions of Nigerians who live on less than $1.90 per day
to break free from the grip of extreme poverty. Addressing these interconnected challenges
requires comprehensive and coordinated efforts to uplift the country from its current dire
circumstances.

Niger Shares A Border With Seven Countries, Making It A Crossroads For Refugees and
Migrant.
Niger, a country that has experienced periods of interrupted peace, including a recent attempted
coup d'etat in March. However, in the broader context, Niger has not seen major conflict for over
a decade. Despite this, the surrounding region, which includes countries like Algeria, Libya,
Chad, Nigeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Mali, has been plagued by significant violent conflicts.
Due to its relative stability compared to its neighbors, Niger has become a host country for a
large number of refugees, with over 250,000 individuals seeking refuge from neighboring
nations such as Nigeria, Mali, and Burkina Faso. Additionally, there are 313,000
internally-displaced nationals within Niger, highlighting the impact of both external and internal
factors on the displacement of people.
Forced migration, whether due to conflict or other reasons, contributes to high poverty levels in
Niger. This is particularly concerning since a significant portion of the population, approximately
82%, relies on farming and livestock for their income. Forced relocations can lead to the loss of
livelihoods, exacerbating poverty levels and creating challenges for the affected individuals and
communities. In summary, while Niger has maintained a relative degree of peace within its
borders, the surrounding conflicts have had profound humanitarian implications, turning the
country into a refuge for many displaced individuals.

Despite Relative Peace In the Country, Niger Is Also Vulnerable to Violent Militias
“Peace” is a relative word in Niger, where the first democratic transfer of power in the country’s
history took place only last year with the election of President Mohamed Bazoum. The country’s
legacy of political corruption and civil unrest following its independence from France in 1960 is
still fresh in memory.

Niger’s historically open borders are also vulnerable to attacks from armed non-military groups.
This causes more displacement for both refugees and Nigerians alike. In 2021, owing to attacks
on civilians, a state of emergency was declared in the Diffa, Tahoua, and Tillaberi regions.
Currently, the World Bank considers the “deteriorating security condition” to be one of the three
main causes of poverty in Niger.

Niger Is Also A Hotspot For the Climate Crisis

Niger, a landlocked and economically challenged country, grapples with severe environmental
conditions. The nation's temperatures are rising at a rate 1.5 times higher than the global average.
Approximately four-fifths of the northern region is a desert, making agriculture difficult, while
one-fifth of the southern part is savanna. These factors contribute to the overall challenge of
farming in Niger.
The country is significantly affected by climate change, leading to erratic rainfall patterns and
more frequent droughts. These changes further complicate agricultural practices and pose a
threat to the livelihoods of the population.
In a United Nations address in September 2021, Nigerien Foreign Minister Hassoumi
Massaoudou likened the climate crisis to a pandemic, highlighting its devastating effects. He
emphasized the severity of the situation, drawing parallels with the global impact of COVID-19.
This comparison underscores the urgency of addressing the climate crisis.
Children in Niger face heightened vulnerability to climate-related risks, ranking seventh on
UNICEF's Children’s Climate Risk Index. Droughts and floods, consequences of the changing
climate, pose significant threats to the well-being of Nigerien children.
In summary, Niger's geographical and climatic challenges, coupled with the adverse effects of
climate change, make it one of the world's poorest countries. The government's recognition of
the climate crisis as another pandemic emphasizes the urgency of addressing environmental
issues, particularly for the vulnerable children of Niger.

Education in Niger Is Under Threat and Signals A Precarious Future

In Niger, focusing on its status as the world's youngest country in terms of the average age of its
citizens. The median age of 15.4 years indicates that half of the population is under the age of 14.
Despite this youthfulness, Niger faces significant challenges in providing education to its
children.
Several barriers hinder access to education in Niger, including conflict-driven insecurity,
climate-related emergencies, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, hunger, and extreme
poverty. These factors directly contribute to low school attendance rates, with a notable
percentage of children being out of school, particularly during times of food scarcity.
more than 50% of children aged 7 to 12 are not attending school in Niger, and this figure
increases to 60% for older children aged 13 to 16. In regions affected by conflict, attendance
rates are even lower. For example, in the Tillabéri region, approximately one in four schools
closed at the end of the 2020-2021 school year due to violence, depriving over 53,000 children of
their right to a quality education. This closure trend has been ongoing, with 377 schools closing
in the previous year, affecting more than 30,000 children.
The overall implication is that the combination of various challenges, including conflict and
climate-related issues, is hindering education in Niger. The closure of schools in conflict-affected
regions not only deprives children of their basic right to education but also perpetuates a cycle of
poverty. Breaking this cycle is crucial for the younger generations of Niger's citizens to have a
better chance at a more prosperous future. Efforts to address these challenges and improve access
to education are essential for the development and well-being of the country.

Poverty in Niger Is Inherently Sexist:

The face of poverty in Niger is overwhelmingly female, with girls and women representing an
estimated 75% of Nigerians living below the poverty line. Social inequalities between the roles
and responsibilities of men and women in society fuel disparities that very quickly become
economic hardships: Women are more than twice as likely to be illiterate than men in Niger, and
the dropout rate from school is higher for girls than boys due to gender-based violence, domestic
roles and duties, and early marriage (one in two girls in Niger is married by the age of 15, and by
17 they’re likely to have at least one child or be pregnant for the first time). There are still laws
in effect that prevent women from inheriting land, and husbands often manage a woman's
property. This lack of control over assets leaves many women without financial independence.
39.6% of employed Nigerian women live below the poverty line. This economic vulnerability is
especially concerning for women who are the sole parent or primary breadwinner for their
families. This is a common scenario in regions like Tahoua, where many men work
internationally as migrants for significant parts of the year. As a result, women face not only the
responsibility of caring for their families but also the challenges of limited economic resources,
exacerbated by discriminatory legal practices. married by the age of 15, and by 17 they’re likely
to have at least one child or be pregnant for the first time).

Addressing poverty in Niger Republic requires a collective effort from individuals, communities,
and organizations. As an individual, you can contribute significantly to this cause by promoting
education and awareness. By raising awareness about the root causes and consequences of
poverty, you help create a foundation for change.
Encourage and support local entrepreneurship by investing in microfinance projects that provide
small loans to individuals and small businesses. This empowers local communities to generate
income and become self-sustainable. Additionally, consider volunteering for or supporting
vocational training programs that equip people with practical skills, enhancing their
employability.

Healthcare is a crucial aspect of poverty alleviation. Support or volunteer with healthcare

programs addressing issues like malnutrition, maternal health, and preventable diseases. By
contributing to community development projects such as building infrastructure or improving
water and sanitation facilities, you can enhance living conditions and create a more conducive
environment for economic growth.
Advocacy plays a key role in poverty reduction. Advocate for policies that promote economic
development, social equality, and good governance. Support organizations working towards
these goals and donate to reputable charities and NGOs actively involved in poverty alleviation
efforts in Niger Republic.

Cultural exchange and understanding are essential elements of poverty reduction. Promote
cultural exchange to foster collaboration between communities an l d encourage responsible
tourism that benefits local economies. Technology and innovation can also be harnessed for
economic empowerment. Support initiatives that introduce technology to enhance agriculture,
education, and healthcare.
Environmental sustainability should not be overlooked. Promote sustainable practices to protect
natural resources, crucial for the livelihoods of many. Support initiatives addressing climate
change and its impact on vulnerable communities.
In summary, your individual efforts can make a significant impact on poverty alleviation in Niger
Republic. Stay informed about the local context, collaborate with communities, and work
alongside established organizations to ensure your contributions are meaningful and sustainable.

(concern usa, Jan 10 2022)

South Sudan:
The Republic of South Sudan became the world’s youngest nation and Africa’s 54th country on
July 9th, 2011. However, outbreaks of civil war in 2013 and 2016 have undermined the
post-independence development gains it made, as well as making its humanitarian situation
worse. More than a decade after independence, South Sudan remains impacted by fragility,
economic stagnation, and instability. Poverty is ubiquitous, exacerbated by conflict,
displacement, and external shocks. (World Bank,2023)
The civil war in South Sudan in 2013 was sparked by political tensions, ethnic divisions,
and power struggles within the ruling party. President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek
Machar, represent different ethnic groups. This caused tensions, tribal ones, causing the people
of the one nation to begin to pick sides. Accusations of a coup attempt by Kiir against Machar
escalated the crisis, leading to armed conflict which plunged the country into a devastating civil
war with severe humanitarian consequences. Since 2013, there have been sporadic outbreaks of
violence, clashes between different armed groups, and challenges in implementing peace
agreements. Political and ethnic tensions have remained significant, contributing to a fragile
security situation.

Although South Sudan is rich in oil, the citizens are yet to fully benefit from it. Expenditures on
key social sectors, including health, education, water and sanitation, and agricultural and rural
development, which could significantly reduce poverty, are limited. The government prioritises
defence and security expenditures over basic service delivery. For example, military expenditure
increased from about 6% of GDP in 2011 to nearly 21% in 2018, and the security payroll
represents 58% of South Sudan's total government expenditure.[5] As a result, poverty is
ubiquitous in the country and reinforced by intercommunal conflict, displacement and external
shocks. (kouassi Yeboua,2024)
South Sudan's oil sector is a critical component of its economy, with significant reserves
located in regions such as Unity, Upper Nile, and Jonglei. The country heavily depends on oil
revenue to finance its budget and meet state financial needs. However, the government rarely
focuses on improving the lucrative sector and yet focuses more on fighting against each other.
South Sudan has only one refinery called the Bentiu Oil Refinery, they import all the rest of their
oil which significantly reduces their profit. They spend most of the oil money on buying
weapons, vehicles, and machinery. Their Agricultural sector is predominantly characterized by
subsistence farming, the majority of the population engages in cultivating staple crops like
sorghum, maize, millet, and cassava for local consumption and markets. Livestock farming,
particularly cattle, goats, and sheep, plays a vital role in the lives of communities, serving as a
source of food, income, and cultural significance. However, the sector faces challenges such as
inadequate infrastructure, limited market access, and disruptions due to conflicts, with insecurity
in certain regions impeding agricultural activities. The civil wars have caused many problems of
displacement, removing farmers from their homes, source of income, and nutrition. This has
decreased the life expectancy of the people and caused extreme poverty in the country.

South Sudan remains in a serious humanitarian crisis. Some 9.4 million people, 76% of the
population, are estimated to be in need of humanitarian assistance in 2023, an increase by half a
million people compared to 2022. Women and children continue to be the most affected. The
humanitarian crisis has been further exacerbated by the recent conflict in neighboring Sudan,
which has led to an inflow of refugees and returnees into South Sudan. As of September 2023,
262,298 individuals have arrived in South Sudan, 91% of whom are South Sudanese returnees.
(World Bank,2023)
Ongoing conflicts and displacement have left women and children particularly vulnerable
to violence, exploitation, and abuse. Displacement camps, often crowded and lacking adequate
resources, expose them to harsh living conditions, with limited access to healthcare, education,
and necessities. As mentioned earlier, the insecurity and conflicts caused displacement, which
severely affected women and children. The breakdown of social structures during the crisis has
increased the risk of gender-based violence, including sexual assault and forced marriage,
Disproportionately affecting women and girls. Children, in particular, face disruptions to their
education, health, and overall well-being due to the destruction of schools, inadequate healthcare
facilities, and malnutrition. Forced recruitment of children into armed groups has been reported,
robbing them of their childhood and exposing them to further trauma.
According to the latest WHO data published in 2020 life expectancy in South Sudan is: Male
60.8, female 64.8 and total life expectancy is 62.8 which gives South Sudan a World Life
Expectancy ranking of 165. (World Health Rankings,2020)
The ongoing conflicts have led to the destruction of health facilities, displacement of
health workers, and disruption of essential services, contributing to a weakened healthcare
system. Malnutrition is a pressing issue, affecting a significant portion of the population,
particularly children. The shortage of healthcare workers, coupled with a lack of medical
supplies and equipment, hampers the country's ability to provide adequate health services.
Additionally, outbreaks of diseases such as malaria and cholera pose additional threats to public
health.

The World Bank Group (WBG) has been engaged in South Sudan since the creation of the
autonomous Government of Southern Sudan in 2005. The WBG’s strategy is guided by its
Country Engagement Note (CEN) FY21-23. This has three focus areas: (a) laying the
groundwork for institution building, (b) continuing support for basic public service delivery, and
(c) promoting resilience and livelihood opportunities. The CEN also seeks to promote social
inclusion, particularly of youth and women, as a cross-cutting principle. Its objective is to shift
back to the government-led implementation of Bank-financed operations and to an expansion of
the World Bank Country Program in the country. This programmatic expansion has resulted in a
growing staffing footprint in the World Bank Country Office in Juba. As of September 2023, the
WBG portfolio in South Sudan stands at $1.2 billion, covering nine national and three regional
operations across the sectors of governance, health, social protection, agriculture, women’s
empowerment, energy, water, education, digital development, and community resilience. (World
Bank,2023)
Improvement of South Sudan is not yet a lost cause, strategies are being put in place to
help.
South Sudan faces significant challenges in its education sector, impeding the country's ability to
provide quality and accessible education for its population. Decades of conflict have resulted in
widespread disruption to the education system, including the destruction of infrastructure,
displacement of communities, and a shortage of qualified teachers. Access to education is a
major concern, particularly for girls and those living in rural areas, where there is often a lack of
schools and limited transportation. The government, with the support of international
organizations, has initiated efforts to rebuild the education system, increase school enrollment,
and enhance teacher training. Humanitarian organizations and NGOs are working collaboratively
with the South Sudanese government to provide emergency relief, including food assistance,
healthcare, and shelter, to those affected by conflict and displacement. Peacebuilding initiatives,
supported by regional and international actors, aim to resolve ongoing conflicts and promote
stability, fostering an environment conducive to development. In the education sector, efforts are
underway to rebuild schools, train teachers, and enhance access to quality education, particularly
for marginalized groups. Women and children are prioritized in protection efforts, including
measures to address gender-based violence and support vulnerable populations. These strategies
involve collaboration between the South Sudanese government, international organizations, and
development partners, emphasizing a holistic approach to addressing the interconnected
challenges facing the nation.

For us as bystanders, we can donate to reputable international organizations and NGOs that
operate in the region, as they often provide critical aid, healthcare, and education services.
Supporting initiatives focused on women's and children's rights, including those combating
gender-based violence, can make a significant difference.
Stay informed about the situation in South Sudan, raising awareness about the challenges faced
by the population, and advocating for sustainable solutions. Additionally, consider engaging in
volunteer work or participating in fundraising campaigns to mobilize resources for specific
projects or interventions in South Sudan. Collaborating with organizations that focus on
peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and community development can also contribute to positive
change.
Democratic Republic of Congo(DRC):
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), about the size of Western Europe, is the largest
country in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). DRC is endowed with exceptional natural resources,
including minerals such as cobalt and copper, hydropower potential, significant arable land,
immense biodiversity, and the world’s second-largest rainforest. But yet the the people of DRC
have not benefited from this due to a conflicts, political upheaval and instability and
humanitarian crisis due to previous history.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) achieved its independence 62 years ago but faced
challenges in achieving a peaceful transition of power until January 2019. Félix Antoine
Tshisekedi Tshilombo assumed the presidency after winning the December 2018 election,
marking the first peaceful transfer of power in the country's history. He succeeded Joseph Kabila,
who had been in power for 18 years.
Despite this milestone, the DRC still grapples with issues such as insecurity, particularly in the
eastern region. Efforts have been made to establish a new social contract between the state and
its citizens. Initiatives include the implementation of free primary education, increased
transparency, public sector reforms, and a focus on universal health coverage. Additionally, there
is emphasis on conflict prevention and stabilization in the East.

However, challenges persist. Despite efforts to prevent conflicts, pockets of insecurity remain,
especially in North Kivu and Ituri provinces, where clashes between the army and armed groups
have escalated, leading to mass displacements. Insecure areas have also emerged due to
intercommunal conflicts. The upcoming general elections scheduled for late 2023 are crucial,
and the deteriorating security situation in some regions poses a threat.

The successful conduct of these elections is seen as essential for maintaining political stability
and pursuing necessary reforms. The hope is that these reforms will unlock the country's
enormous potential, allowing the majority of its population to benefit from the available
opportunities. The path to political stability involves addressing security concerns, promoting
transparency, and ensuring the smooth functioning of democratic processes.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) faces significant challenges across various
sectors, leading to a low ranking of 164 out of 174 countries on the 2020 Human Capital Index
(HCI), reflecting decades of conflict and fragility.
The HCI of 0.37, below the Sub-Saharan Africa average of 0.4, means that a Congolese child
born today can only achieve 37% of their potential due to suboptimal health conditions and a
lack of quality education.

Child health and nutrition issues persist, with a high stunting rate of 42% for children under five.
Malnutrition is a major contributor to child mortality, with almost half of deaths under five
linked to malnutrition.
The DRC is home to diverse indigenous peoples (IPs) who face challenges such as forced
displacement, discrimination, and limited access to basic services. Despite these challenges, IPs
play a crucial role in preserving cultural diversity and sustainable resource management.

Access to education has improved, especially for girls, but the quality remains poor. Primary
enrollment increased by 50% between 2000 and 2017, yet the completion rate stands at only
75%, and an estimated 97% of 10-year-olds in DRC are in learning poverty, unable to read and
understand simple text.

Women in the DRC face significant barriers to economic opportunities and empowerment,
including high rates of gender-based violence (GBV) and discrimination. Only 16.8% of women
have completed secondary school, and early marriage and high fertility rates persist.

Women's labor force participation is relatively high at almost 62%, mainly in agriculture.
However, women earn less than men and own fewer assets, with significant gender gaps in
control over land, voice and agency, and exposure to risk and uncertainty.

DRC's healthcare system has been greatly impacted by protracted conflict, humanitarian crises,
and disease outbreaks. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation, leading to vaccine
hesitancy, decreased hospital visits, disrupted routine vaccinations, increased food insecurity, and
a rise in sexual and GBV cases.
The impacts of COVID-19 on healthcare are profound, with disruptions in basic healthcare
delivery, vaccine hesitancy, reduced access to family planning, and increased incidence of sexual
and GBV. Close to 23 million children missed routine vaccinations in 2020, highlighting the
potential for a secondary health crisis if not addressed. Comprehensive and sustained efforts are
needed to address these challenges and improve healthcare, education, gender equality, and
overall economic development in the DRC. e

Individuals can play a role in supporting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by starting
with awareness. Sharing information about the challenges faced by the country, such as conflicts,
development issues, and environmental concerns, is crucial. Use social media platforms or
engage in conversations to increase awareness among your peers.

Consider supporting nonprofit organizations that operate in the DRC. Whether through financial
contributions or volunteer work, these organizations often focus on essential areas like
healthcare, education, poverty alleviation, and environmental conservation. It's essential to
research and choose reputable organizations with transparent operations.

Be conscious of your consumption habits. Choose products that align with sustainable and
ethical practices, particularly those that may contribute to deforestation or environmental
degradation in the DRC. Advocating for sustainable practices in industries such as logging and
agriculture is a way to make a positive impact.
Stay informed about the political, social, and environmental issues in the DRC. Knowledge is a
powerful tool, enabling you to advocate for informed policies and practices. Engage with your
government representatives, encouraging them to support policies that promote sustainable
development, human rights, and environmental conservation in the DRC.

Consider organizing or participating in fundraisers to support specific causes in the DRC.

Whether directed towards education, healthcare, or environmental initiatives, fundraising can
make a tangible difference.

Supporting educational initiatives in the DRC is another meaningful way to contribute.

Education is a key factor in long-term development and empowerment.
If planning to visit the DRC, be a responsible and ethical tourist. Respect local customs, support
local businesses, and choose tour operators that prioritize sustainable and responsible tourism
practices.

Stay informed about efforts to protect the rainforest in the DRC and globally. Whether through
conservation, reforestation, or sustainable land use initiatives, supporting these efforts can
contribute to long-term environmental health.
In summary, individual actions, even seemingly small ones, collectively contribute to positive
change in the DRC. Being informed, intentional, and compassionate in your efforts can support
the well-being and sustainable development of the country.
(world bank, sept 25 2023)

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Page. (2023) The Borgen Project [Online] Available from:
https://borgenproject.org/tag/poverty-in-somalia/

World bank. (2023) The World Bank [Online] Available

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