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On the surface, poverty might seem like a localized issue—something that impacts individuals or communities in a particular region. But the reality is that poverty, no matter where it’s found, affects all of us.
With almost 700 million people living on less than $2.15 a day, the shadow of poverty touches every corner of the globe. This crisis extends far beyond borders, and is compounded by global challenges like instability, food insecurity, and climate change. Recognizing these interconnected challenges is essential for creating sustainable solutions and fostering a world where everyone can thrive.
Addressing instability through economic empowerment
When people live in extreme and ultra-poverty, they become more vulnerable to conflict, crime, and violence. Lack of access to basic needs like food, clean water, and shelter can force people into desperate situations. It creates fertile ground for instability, feeding into cycles of violence that, in turn, destabilize entire regions.
In countries like Haiti and Colombia, where decades of conflict have left communities fractured, poverty often fuels instability. However, we’ve also witnessed the opposite—how empowering individuals through microfinance can ignite lasting transformation. The Ultra-Poverty Graduation program is a powerful example of this. It equips entrepreneurs with the resources and training they need to lift themselves out of ultra-poverty, offering not only financial stability but also a renewed sense of purpose and hope.
One story that stands out in my mind is that of Anyeli, a mother whose husband became involved in criminal activities, leaving her determined to create a better future for her children. After being introduced to Agape’s Ultra-Poverty Graduation program, Anyeli committed herself to the training. With the guidance and support she received, she expanded her coffee business and is now working toward launching a fast-food venture. Her children are now attending school regularly and on their way to a better life.
Her story is a testament to the resilience and potential of those given the opportunity to rise above the challenges of ultra-poverty.
Developing food security
Today, three-quarters of the world’s poorest people live in rural areas, relying on agriculture for their livelihood. And within this group, women make up over 40% of the agricultural workforce. Yet, despite their critical role, they face some of the greatest challenges—limited access to financing, markets, and the education needed to thrive.
Empowering these farmers is not just about offering financial assistance; it’s about equipping them with the skills and resources to unlock their full potential. I’ve seen this firsthand in Ghana, where our partner, Sinapi Aba, is having a profound impact through the Smallholder Empowerment & Economic Development Program. This initiative is transforming the lives of women in the northern, rural regions of the country.
Take Sanimpo, for example—a farmer who once struggled to produce enough to feed her family. But with support from Sinapi Aba, including access to microloans and comprehensive agronomy training, she’s increased her yields dramatically and diversified her income. Now, not only is she feeding her own family, but she’s also creating jobs and contributing to the local economy.
The transformation doesn’t stop with Sanimpo. This program is providing the tools and training that allow women farmers across rural Ghana to increase productivity and invest in a better future. When we invest in women like Sanimpo, we aren’t just improving individual lives—we’re strengthening communities and creating long-lasting change in the fight against poverty.
Developing resilience against climate events
The fight of poverty alleviation is deeply tied to building climate resilience. Malawi, identified by the United Nations as one of the countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, is a prime example of how poverty and environmental challenges intersect. Communities already impacted by poverty are often the hardest hit by environmental disasters—whether it’s droughts, floods, or rising sea levels. Without resources, these communities are far more vulnerable to destructive climate effects, making the global response to these crises even more urgent.
Through Opportunity International’s programs in Malawi, our goal is to help 6,000 farmers become climate resilient by providing training on sustainable farming techniques and access to drought-resistant crops. One farmer, Mary, faced the devastation of losing her entire crop to a category 5 severe tropical cyclone. Thanks to financial training, savings, and mentoring, Mary has been able to diversify her income and build resilience against climate shocks. Despite significant challenges, Mary has continued to provide for her family and community.
Building climate resilience and empowering people to adapt to these changes starts with economic empowerment. When farmers like Mary are equipped with the tools and knowledge to adapt their crops to changing weather patterns, they become less vulnerable to disaster—and so does the local food supply.
What This Means for Us
At Opportunity International Canada, we’re committed to a call to love and serve our global neighbours. We believe that poverty alleviation is an urgent imperative that requires collective action. By confronting the deep-rooted challenges that perpetuate cycles of hardship, we can unite in our efforts to provide solutions that uplift communities and build a stronger, more resilient world.
By addressing poverty with sustainable solutions, we don’t just improve the life of one person, like Anyeli, Sanimpo, or Mary; we unleash a ripple effect of change that transforms lives of families and entire communities for generations to come.
The time to act is now—because when we empower one person, we pave the way for a brighter future for all.
Let’s not wait. Let’s act, because a world without poverty is possible, and it starts with us.