The Challenges and Complexities of Poverty

 

Poverty is the state of existence in which a person exists below what is regarded as the “poverty line”. The poverty line is the unit of measurement in terms of income and basic human essential needs. Poverty can be defined in numerous ways such as: level of income, lack of education, lack of opportunities for upward mobility and growth, access to clean water, access to education, access to fresh fruit and vegetables, access to employment opportunities, access to a non toxic environment, access to healthcare. 41% of Sub-Sahara African population is living below the poverty line of $1.90 per day. In stark contrast to the United States, the Sub Sahara African population has a life expectancy of 60 whereas the Unites States average life expectancy is at 78. Access to energy is essential to reduce poverty. Globally, 1.1 billion people still do not have access to electricity. Nigeria’s unique issues battling extreme poverty are multi layered. Nigeria is considered multi ethnic and a country that is culturally diverse. This unique landscape also weaves the fabric of multiple political parties. Nigeria suffered a deep recession for the past two decades which was further exploited by the global Covid 19 pandemic. The disruption of the labor market, enterprise and decline in oil prices further thrust the poor population into further despair. The World Bank group has implemented and introduces various strategies to boost economic growth and promote upward mobility out of poverty for almost half of the country. The World Bank group is doing so by way of promoting jobs, economic transformation and diversification; strengthening the foundation of the public sector. These initiatives are focused on youth, women and the poor in marginalized areas, and social inclusion through higher quality and efficiency in social service delivery at the state level. In this instance, globalization can be deemed as a positive avenue to promote progressive growth and eliminate poverty and extinction of a people. The globalizing act of wanting to provide access to the basic essential needs of human beings such as clean water, clean air, access to healthcare and education is a step in the right direction. Caring for and enabling humanity to thrive and survive is a humanitarian duty. Those who can help others should help those in need. Removing the human traits of greed and profiteering globalization can be an essential act for the betterment and advancement of the human race.   

 

Onyeiwu, S. (2021, December 10). Nigeria's poverty profile is grim. it's time to move beyond handouts. The Conversation. Retrieved February 2, 2022, from https://theconversation.com/nigerias-poverty-profile-is-grim-its-time-to-move-beyond-handouts-163302

 

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