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Month: September 2024

FESTIVITY MEETS FRUGALITY

Posted on by Kirabon

For 43-year-old Alemnesh Neri, the twice-yearly trips from Addis Abeba to her hometown of Gumer was a cherished tradition, a time to reconnect with family and bring gifts from the city. This year, the soaring cost of living and logistical burdens have forced her to cut back on her visits to only once. The cost of items she buys has tripled from 5,000 Br, and transportation expenses have surged likewise. The Mesqel festival, celebrated on 27 September with the burning of a massive bonfire, the “Demera,” holds profound cultural and religious importance in Ethiopia. The influx of travellers during this season strains local infrastructure, already burdened by inflation and security concerns. Hotels along routes are frequently overcrowded, leaving visitors like Alemnesh scrambling for accommodation. Even the allure of cheaper goods in smaller towns is dampened by rigid bus schedules that allow little time for purchases.

Security fears further complicate travel plans. The road from Addis Abeba to the Gurage Zone, where Gumer is located, is plagued by concerns over kidnapping and violence, particularly near Boti and Batu (Ziway). Infrastructure woes compound the problem with unpaved roads, inadequate restroom facilities, and unreliable electricity and water supplies, making journeys arduous and rest stops uncomfortable. Yet, local efforts to improve tourism offer a glimmer of hope. In the Gurage Zone’s Arekert Wereda, the newly opened Muluworq Resort, built for 250 million Br, boasts 47 rooms that were fully booked leading up to Mesqel holiday. Tourists like Getu Yilma, who travels from Johannesburg each year and spends up to 400,000 Br during his six-day visit, acknowledge progress and persistent issues.

The tourism sector faces powerful headwinds. International visitor numbers have plummeted post-pandemic, with security concerns and travel advisories from countries like the UK and Canada discouraging travel to Ethiopia. Industry experts like Fitsum Gezahegn, president of the Ethiopian Tour Operators Association, call for improved marketing, streamlined visa processes, and increased state support, including loans and tax incentives, to help the sector recover. While the Ministry of Tourism plans to generate 5.47 billion dollars from 1.3 million visitors this year, experts question the figures, citing “extremely low tourist visibility” and widespread closure of destinations. The Mesqel festival continues to draw people together, symbolising unity in uncertain times. In Addis Abeba, preparations culminated in one of the most enormous “Demera” bonfires at Mesqel Square on Friday, attracting visitors from near and far.

Not to Turn the “Land of Origins” into a Land of Uneven Promises

Posted on by Kirabon

In the early 2010s, Ethiopian authorities found themselves at odds with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Fund cautioned that the country’s rapid economic expansion overheated the economy, igniting inflationary pressures that could undermine hard-won gains. Yet, buoyed by double-digit growth rates since 2004, even in the face of severe drought, Melesites dismissed the advice. They had little patience for lectures from an institution they viewed as a global neoliberal tool, especially when the economy was booming.

Financed largely by China’s deep pockets, they pressed on with their ambitious infrastructure-led growth agenda. But even China, whose own meteoric rise had captivated the world, cautioned Ethiopia’s leaders during a summit in Addis Abeba in the middle of that decade. Chinese officials urged their counterparts to learn from their missteps, particularly the regional disparities that had emerged between affluent coastlines and neglected hinterlands as well as urban and rural populations.

China’s economic miracle is undeniable. It has lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty, reshaped global trade, and become a linchpin of international finance. Yet beneath the surface lies a persistent and deepening problem: regional inequality. Coastal metropolises like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Beijing have flourished, transforming into global hubs. In contrast, interior provinces, especially in the western and central regions, have struggled to keep pace, suffering from inferior infrastructure, education, and public services.

The roots of this disparity can be traced back to the 1994 tax-sharing reforms, which redefined the fiscal relationship between China’s central and local governments. Intended to spur growth by granting local authorities more autonomy and fiscal incentives, these reforms inadvertently cemented the dominance of already thriving coastal areas. Researches found that while the reforms prevented a further 15pc increase in inequality, they came at an eight percent cost to overall GDP growth.

In 2016, Jiangsu province boasted a per capita GDP of nearly 6,000 dollars, while Yunnan, in the southwestern interior, languished at three times lower. The central government’s reliance on tax rebates and equalisation transfers, meant to balance regional wealth, has fallen short. Coastal regions, contributing the lion’s share of national tax revenue, have been rewarded with generous rebates, enabling further investment in infrastructure, education, and technology. Despite receiving more equalisation transfers, provinces like Hunan and Yunnan remain stuck in a cycle of underdevelopment.

Local governments in poorer regions, facing fiscal pressures, have resorted to levying higher fees and non-tax charges on private firms. This approach discourages entrepreneurship and risk-taking, hindering growth and perpetuating disparities. The consequences extend beyond economics, causing social discontent and political instability, undermining China’s vision of a harmonious society.

Ethiopia now appears to be heading to a similar crossroads. Despite an impressive annual GDP growth for over two decades, placing it among the world’s fastest-growing economies, Ethiopia’s growth masks a troubling reality of regional disparities fuelled by political uncertainties and militarised conflicts. Relatively affluent regions, notably Addis Abeba and its environs, have thrived due to their proximity to international presence.

These areas have become industrial and service hubs, attracting foreign direct investments and benefiting from government-backed industrial parks. Remote and less accessible regions remain tethered to agriculture, a sector that, despite being the economy’s backbone, suffers from low productivity. Centralised development strategies have historically concentrated wealth and public services in urban centres, and attempts at decentralisation have been poorly coordinated and inefficient.

Infrastructure inadequacies exacerbate these disparities. Rural regions lack the roads, telecommunications, and electricity necessary to connect them to markets and stimulate economic activities. In the Somali and Afar regional states, reliable power is scarce, stifling industrial potential and leaving communities reliant on subsistence farming.

The regional disparity in the social service sector such as education is more pronounced. In urban centres like Addis Abeba and Harari, pre-primary gross enrollment rates (GER) were near-universal, at 97.6pc and 91.2pc, respectively. However, rural and underserved regional states such as Afar and Somali tell a different story, recording 12.9pc, and a mere 7.9pc, respectively. The situation does not improve at the primary level. The national Grade one dropout rate increased from 19pc in the 2013/14 academic year to 25pc in 2017/18, missing the target of reducing it to five percent by 2019/20. The Afar region glaringly illustrates these problems. Its primary education GER plummeted from 70.3pc in 2014/15 to 57pc in 2018/19, falling far short of the 98pc target.

These pastoralist communities often lack the facilities and trained personnel necessary for effective pre-primary programs. Factors such as socio-economic pressures, absence of school feeding programs, inadequate infrastructure, and schooling costs disproportionately affect children from impoverished families, making early dropout more likely.

The human cost is substantial. GDP per capita in some rural regions is less than half that of Addis Abeba. According to a recent report by the IMF, on average, real GDP per capita in the leading regions is 70pc higher than in its lagging ones. Such disparities fuel migration to urban centres, leading to rapid urbanisation that is evidently straining the city infrastructure and depopulating rural areas, deepening poverty.

The social implications are equally grave. Economic marginalisation has contributed to political unrest, particularly in regions like Oromia and Amhara. The IMF warns that if left unchecked, regional disparities could exacerbate political polarisation, threatening national cohesion and stability. Economically, the economy suffers from inefficiencies by concentrating wealth and talent in a few areas, missing out on the potential contributions of its rural regions.

These could be a realisation behind the federal government’s initiative to raise funds from the private sector, particularly the financial industry, to undertake corridor development projects in areas like Wollega, in the Oromia Regional State.

On the surface, such projects seeking to enhance public infrastructure seem commendable. After all, the Wollega Zone is rich in resources, as it is fertile agricultural land. It is a source of major export crops like coffee, spices, and honey, with abundant livestock and vast mineral deposits, including gold, platinum, iron ore, coal, granite, and marble. Development could unlock this potential, attracting domestic and foreign investors alike.

This could be part of a targeted investment project that leverages regional comparative advantages such as agriculture and agro-processing to revitalise the rural economy. However, the initiative has raised eyebrows on several fronts: value for money, inclusivity, and the absence of enduring peace.

Critics question the transparency in selecting Wollega over other towns and regions equally in need of development. Unclear policy treatment that appear to favour one area while neglecting others could undermine national cohesion. Some cities would undertake corridor development independently, while others are partnered, but the criteria for these decisions remain opaque.

The area has faced various issues, with investments often abandoned due to instability. Security concerns loom large that foreign investors have left after losing equipment, and federal security forces, after a brief presence, have withdrawn, leaving projects vulnerable. Ensuring security is paramount before committing substantial resources. Investments, particularly those funded by the private sector, should not be squandered or subject to waste.

Value for money is a critical consideration. Funders should be vested in the feasibility and success of projects, as these investments impact their balance sheets. Previous initiatives, such as “Gebeta Le Hager,” which encompassed multiple regions, lacked clarity on investment returns, fuelling scepticism.

Lessons can be drawn from other economies where political, financial, and industrial capitals are designated by design, promoting balanced development. Regional economic disparities can be addressed by providing amenities and opportunities across various cities, and national cohesion can be strengthened. Fiscal policy reforms are essential to ensure that the wealth generated in urban centres is effectively redistributed. Increased public investment in education and healthcare in rural areas would boost human capital and productivity, laying the groundwork for sustained growth.

Transparent and inclusive planning involving all parties can ensure that projects are feasible and beneficial. Consensus among stakeholders, including financial contributors, is vital. Investments should not be demanded without regard for funders’ financial stability and performance considerations..

Lofty Ambitions Meet Unflattering Realities in Education Reform

Posted on by Kirabon

Investing in education at the national and individual levels is crucial for sustaining the human capital needed across various sectors. In advanced economies, students often pay tuition fees by taking out loans, considering their potential wages upon employment to offset this debt. Studies have shown that each additional year of education can boost an individual’s earning potential, reinforcing society’s belief in the economic value of higher learning.

Ethiopia’s recent initiative to train five million coders signals the demand for highly skilled programmers in the nascent digital and knowledge economy. However, this ambitious goal depends on providing quality education at every level. Without substantial investment in quality education, such initiatives may struggle to produce the desired outcomes.

In many developed countries, students select universities based on their preferences and the associated tuition fees. Families save for college expenses, and students often take on loans to cover costs. These financial mechanisms are deeply ingrained in these societies, supported by established systems that facilitate student loans and savings plans. Ethiopia lacks such a robust financial system designed to offer loans for college tuition. Many parents may not have the collateral to secure such loans, making higher education less accessible for a large portion of the population.

As the federal authorities consider transitioning to autonomous universities, the financial independence of these institutions becomes a contentious issue. While autonomy could address some of universities’ financial needs, it raises questions about the broader public’s ability to shoulder increased tuition fees. Without a supportive welfare system and careful preparation, the shift could exacerbate educational inequities.

However, the debate over university funding models is not unique to Ethiopia. In advanced Western economies, academic expenses often fall on students and their families. This system has led to growing voices of concern about student debt and its long-term impact on economic mobility. Graduates struggle with loan repayments, prompting discussions about whether individuals should bear the full cost of education that ultimately benefits the broader economy through their contributions in various fields.

Scandinavian countries like Denmark offer a different model. Academic programs are free for every citizen who meets institutional requirements, and students receive stipends during their university studies. This approach has cultivated strong academic programs that produce scientists and engineers, propelling Denmark to a leading position in European innovation. According to the Global Innovation Index, Denmark ranks among the top European economies without the social problems associated with high levels of private student debt in countries like the United States (US).

Understandably, Ethiopia faces economic limitations in replicating such models. With average public sector salaries of less than 6,000 Br (approximately 57.7 dollars at last week’s exchange rate) a month and a per capita income of less than 2,000 dollars, expecting the majority to afford tuition fees at autonomous universities is unrealistic. Parents should deserve to have time to prepare a transitional plan before enrolling their children in tertiary institutions.

Quality education should be available to prepare students for the digital and knowledge economies. The groundwork for this knowledge economy requires proactive and assertive efforts. This includes nurturing the private sector and entrepreneurial environment that can create job opportunities. Expanding and providing high-quality, world-class educational programs is critical to capitalising on innovation and demographic dividend.

Ethiopia ranks 130th in the Global Innovation Index (GII) for 2024, trailing neighbouring Kenya at 96th. In the sub-Saharan African region, it claims 24th rank, while Kenya is one of the six innovative countries in the continent.

Successive governments have invested heavily in the education sector, expanding tertiary institutions nationwide. However, this expansion now faces the critical challenge of delivering quality programs to a larger student body. Achieving educational excellence involves improving the teacher-to-student ratio and ensuring universities have highly qualified faculty. Enhancing the financial aspects of universities is part of this equation, enabling institutions to attract and retain top talent.

Access to the latest academic research, participation in scientific investigations, and forging partnerships are vital components. Collaborations across different sectors can enhance the quality of tertiary education and increase the absorption capacity of various industries. These partnerships can lead to practical studies and innovations directly benefiting the economy.

Pollution Amidst Greening Moves

Posted on by Kirabon

My brother and I visited the Bole Arabsa neighborhood after a funeral, where my brother noted the significantly better air quality compared to downtown Addis. He described the fresh air as “food for the lungs.” I didn’t notice the difference even though I live nearby in Ayat. However, I am affected by car exhausts downtown, especially during traffic jams—forcing drivers to close their windows. The city suffers from several poorly maintained vehicles that emit excessive exhaust, causing visibility issues and further contributing to noise pollution.

The sibling of a deceased relative, who lived in Germany for many years, echoed my brother’s observations about air quality in Addis. He noted the stark contrast between Germany’s clean, well-engineered cars and the polluted air in his hometown. He mentioned that air quality improves as one moves from Megenagna to CMC and beyond. After spending time in downtown Addis, he experienced dark nasal discharge, highlighting the respiratory issues many face due to pollution from car exhaust and other sources, often misattributed to allergies or flu. This difference in perception may be more pronounced for those sensitive to pollution, especially after living in a cleaner environment.

Although the total vehicle population is relatively small compared to other major African cities, the per capita exhaust contribution is significant in our capital. I am particularly worried about vulnerable groups like traffic police, street vendors, and beggars who spend long hours in this polluted environment. Many people are too focused on daily challenges to recognize the serious health risks posed by street pollution.

Many motorists frequently clear their throats and experience nasal congestion. Prolonged exposure to auto exhaust can lead to serious health issues, including bronchitis, asthma, and skin problems. Being in such traffic at peak hours often results in headaches and nausea due to carbon monoxide inhalation.

One evening, while stuck in traffic, I observed a haze of polluted air from dust and car exhaust, owing to the street lighting from a corridor development project. An old Isuzu mini truck emitted thick, pungent exhaust, forcing other drivers to close their windows or change lanes. The truck’s questionable maintenance contributed to the already smoky atmosphere.

Awareness of pollution in Southeast Asian and Far Eastern countries is generally higher than in other regions, with many people wearing facemasks long before the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 90pc of the world’s top 100 polluted cities are in the Indian subcontinent and China, primarily due to high population density and extensive coal use for energy. In India, smog—a mix of fog and smoke—poses a significant public health issue, leading to school closures on particularly polluted days to protect the health of children and youth.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly visible on the streets of Addis, as there is a growing belief that reducing reliance on fossil fuels can help mitigate pollution from gas-powered vehicles. The government is promoting EV imports to lower pollution levels, despite their higher cost and the underdeveloped charging infrastructure. While many support EVs as a cleaner alternative, critics argue that they can also be pollutants. Concerns include the lengthy life cycle required for EVs to offset their carbon footprint and the challenges of disposing of toxic batteries after their lifespan, which can be expensive and environmentally problematic.

In Addis Abeba, pollution extends beyond the air to the city’s rivers, which are heavily contaminated with waste and toxic substances. These rivers serve as dumping grounds for garbage, industrial waste, and even human waste, leading to a dire environmental situation. There are no effective controls to prevent this pollution, and the Akaki River, in particular, is surrounded by small city farms cultivating vegetables along its banks.

A 2020 study by Ethiopian scientists published in SpringerOpen highlights the severe impact of heavy metals on the Little Akaki river system in Addis Abeba. The river is under significant stress due to improper dumping of domestic and industrial waste, jeopardizing its ecological, social, and economic functions. The study found that inorganic pollutants, including toxic heavy metals, accumulate in the river’s sediment and have been detected in vegetables like cabbage grown in the area. Alarmingly, these heavy metals, such as cadmium, chromium, and lead, persist in the human body indefinitely without decomposition.

The polluted river systems in Addis Abeba serve as breeding grounds for parasites, posing a serious public health risk due to the presence of excreta. While urban rivers can enhance recreation, generate jobs, and boost the economy, Addis’s rivers are currently eyesores and should be avoided. The government has announced a project to clean and develop these rivers into recreational areas and tourist attractions, which would significantly benefit the city. I hope for a future where the rivers become pleasant oases for relaxation amidst urban life.

Noise pollution in Addis Abeba is a significant issue, largely ignored and poorly enforced. The city is filled with loud religious services amplified by powerful speakers, while nightclubs and bars play music at high volumes in residential areas, disrupting peace and privacy. The lack of concern for others’ rights is frustrating, as loud advertisements from vehicles further contribute to the chaos. This rampant noise pollution affects the sick, those seeking quiet to work, and anyone trying to rest, highlighting a widespread insensitivity to the problem.

Germany exemplifies effective noise regulation, with residential noise levels capped at 55 decibels during the day and 40 at night. The European Union enforces strict noise regulations, including a curfew on flights between 11:30 PM and 5:30 AM. Additionally, Germany promotes cycling over driving, encouraging citizens to reduce their carbon footprint despite its strong automotive industry.

The uncontrolled noise pollution in the society highlights a lack of attention to improving quality of life, despite existing laws that address these issues. Enforcement of these regulations remains inadequate, and there is a significant need for education and awareness to bridge the gap in public understanding. As societal attitudes toward pollution evolve, initiatives like electric cars, river basin development, and noise reduction could lead to improved public health, safety, and socio-economic development, promising a brighter future.

Adolescents Face a Mental Health Crisis as Stigma, Neglect Prevail

Posted on by Kirabon

Adolescence is a defining phase in human development, marked by profound physical, emotional, and social changes that lay the groundwork for an individual’s future. Yet for millions of young people in Ethiopia, this transformative stage is overshadowed by a mental health crisis that threatens not only their well-being but also the country’s prospects for growth.

Take the story of Amina, a 16-year-old girl from a rural village near Addis Abeba.

Struggling with anxiety and depression, she struggled with emotional distress in a community where mental health issues are stigmatised and misunderstood. Her academic performance has declined in an environment where access to proper support or services is lacking. She has become increasingly isolated from her peers.

Amina’s experience mirrors a broader and entrenched problem affecting the youth.

Globally, mental health issues during adolescence contribute to the overall disease burden. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that up to half of mental health problems begin before age 14. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and behavioural disorders account for a substantial portion of disability among young people worldwide.

In Ethiopia, the situation is particularly alarming. Estimates suggest that 11.4pc of adolescents aged 10 to 19 experience mental health disorders, a figure translating to over three million young people caught up with a health crisis that can have lifelong repercussions. Several factors exacerbate poor mental health outcomes among adolescents, especially in low-resource settings where poverty, inequality, and violence are prevalent.

Economic hardships and limited access to essential services like healthcare and education intensify environmental stressors. Adolescents in these communities often face emotional distress that, if left unaddressed, can lead to chronic mental health issues. Systemic barriers compound these problems. A widespread lack of mental health awareness and a scarcity of support services leave many adolescents without the help they need.

Mental health disorders are frequently stigmatised, discouraging young people and their families from seeking assistance. This stigma encourages a cycle of silence and isolation, where adolescents like Amina deal with their struggles alone. According to a study in the Ethiopian Journal of Health Sciences, over 60pc of adolescents with mental health issues receive no treatment or counselling.

Substance use among adolescents is a growing concern, adding another layer to the crisis. Alcohol consumption, chewing khat, an stimulant leaf, and smoking are increasingly common, with devastating effects on mental and physical well-being. A survey by the Ethiopian Public Health Institute found that 15pc of adolescents engage in regular chewing of this substance, while 10pc consume alcohol weekly. Many turn to substances as a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, and depression linked to their environments. Substance use worsens existing mental health issues and introduces new problems, further entrenching young people in cycles of distress and risky behaviours.

Addressing substance use requires comprehensive prevention and intervention strategies tailored to adolescents’ needs. Families, schools, and communities should cooperate to provide education, support, and access to services for those at risk or already engaging in substance use. Initiatives like community outreach programs and school-based counselling can play crucial roles.

The federal government has acknowledged the problem and taken steps to address adolescent mental health through national strategies. The five-year strategy for mental health response, beginning in 2020, outlines goals for improving services across the country, including integrating mental health into school curricula and training health workers, teachers, and communities. However, progress has been slow, and many of the strategy’s plans remain unrealised. Budget constraints, limited infrastructure, and a shortage of trained professionals impede effective implementation.

As this strategy approaches its final year, it is evident that more focused efforts are needed to prioritise adolescent mental health in the next national agenda. A severe shortage of child and adolescent mental health specialists remains an issue, with reports indicating fewer than one specialist for a million people. The shortage pressed for capacity-building initiatives to expand the workforce and improve service availability.

Addressing the crisis requires a coordinated national strategy focusing on prevention, early intervention, and treatment. Capacity-building should be a priority, focusing on increasing the number of trained professionals equipped to address adolescents’ unique challenges. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and community health workers trained in mental healthcare.

Schools should be integrated into the response work because of their crucial role. Embedding mental health education into the curriculum and providing trained counsellors can create a supportive environment. Teachers can be trained to recognise signs of distress and refer students to appropriate services. Cooperation between schools, professionals, and communities is essential to offering the necessary support.

Leveraging telehealth and digital platforms can extend services’ reach to adolescents in remote or underserved areas. Mobile phone penetration has grown immensely, providing an opportunity to deliver counselling and support through apps and hotlines. These platforms can offer assistance in private to those who might otherwise have no access to care. Community awareness campaigns focusing on reducing stigma and encouraging families to seek help for their children are also important. Religious and community leaders can be engaged to promote understanding and acceptance of mental health issues, helping to break down cultural barriers that prevent seeking help.

Making the Pact for the Future a Pact for Peace

Posted on by Kirabon

Peace is a common good. But, it often eludes us, partly because of our actions and omissions. However, it is indisputable that peace has never been so coveted as it is today.

While presenting ‘Our Common Agenda’, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres characterised our era as the “biggest shared test since the Second World War, where humanity faces a stark and urgent choice: a breakdown or a breakthrough”.

The findings on progress towards attaining the sustainable development goals (SDGs) are instructive. High levels of poverty compound already complex socio-economic realities, which outdated education systems cannot address. Food systems, unless transformed, will not allow us to eradicate hunger by 2030, leaving a projected two billion people food insecure by 2050. The Covid-19 pandemic exposed the fragilities of global health systems, underscoring the need for collective solutions.

Gender inequality continues to hinder social progress. Essential services such as water, sanitation, affordable and sustainable energy, and decent employment, prerequisites for inclusive and sustainable economic growth, are moving backwards with regards to the SDGs and the aspirations of the African Union Agenda 2063. Infrastructure for inclusive, safer, sustainable and resilient human settlements is lacking. We are experiencing unprecedented extreme weather events and climate patterns.

On the peace and security front, multilateralism is evidently under severe strain. We are witnessing mistrust among nations and competition among great powers; a growing sense of global instability, turmoil and polarisation; increasing militarisation; and flagrant challenges to the normative order and international law, including instances of disregard for the most fundamental principle of the territorial integrity of sovereign states.

The institutions and mechanisms established to promote cooperation and understanding between states, and to prevent ‘the scourge of war’, have become inadequate, at times putting into question the viability of peace.

Last week, the General Assembly of the United Nations held the “Summit of the Future,” designed to forge a global consensus on our shared future and what we can do today to secure it. The Summit called for decisive action on sustainable development, financing for development, international peace and security, technology and innovation, youth and future generations, and transforming global governance. A peace, security and development nexus approach should be central to these efforts, to ensure peace, security and shared prosperity, rooted in the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

In a world in transition, expectations are high that the ‘Pact for the Future’ will reflect principles of unity, equity, inclusivity and solidarity, aligned with the realities of the 21st Century, and where peace reigns.

Strengthening preventive diplomacy for peace is essential. This requires greater use of the United Nations as an inclusive arena for diplomacy; enhancing the Secretary-General’s ‘Good Offices’ role; strengthening collaboration between the United Nations and regional organisations such as the African Union (AU); and building stronger national prevention strategies. Reforming the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, is also vital to make it more representative, agile, responsive, accountable and resilient, as well as reinforcing its ability to facilitate a rules-based, peaceful international order.

The Secretary-General has also prioritised conflict response, including through conflict prevention and management, peacekeeping and AU-led peace support operations, and addressing root causes of conflict. Innovative financing mechanisms for peace support operations are crucial, particularly in Africa, which faces significant vulnerabilities, to more effectively respond to evolving asymmetrical threats and a changing security landscape. This, in turn, should make the United Nations Security Council more credible since more than 70pc of its agenda focuses on Africa.

By adopting resolution 2719 in December 2023, the Security Council provided itself another tool for a more tailored response to address peace and security challenges in Africa through greater collaboration with regional intergovernmental bodies, notably the African Union (AU), consistent with Chapter VIII of the UN Charter.

We are at a critical moment in global history, with a unique opportunity to make bold and more intelligent choices for future generations. The stakes cannot be higher. Sounding the alarm bell, Secretary-General Guterres stressed that “The world is faced with a stark choice: reform or rupture” and warned that “it may be our last chance to act decisively and responsibly.”

Debt Trap Looms Over Global Push for SDGs as Financial Strain Derails Progress

Posted on by Kirabon

The just-concluded United Nations “Summit of the Fortune” in New York and next year’s second edition of the World Summit for Social Development seek to “chart a path toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and responding to emerging challenges and opportunities.” But the question of how to finance the necessary investments—particularly at a time when many countries are weighed down by debt—stalks global discussions.

The world is more complicated than a decade ago, when the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which sets out the 17 SDGs and their 169 targets, was drafted. When the Agenda was approved in January 2016, we had not yet faced the COVID-19 pandemic, war had not engulfed Ukraine or Gaza, and the United States (US) and China were not at loggerheads. Today, the world economy is more fragmented, geopolitical tensions are higher, and multilateralism is sputtering.

The number of people living in poverty has increased: in 2020-23, an estimated 165 million people, mostly in developing countries, fell below the World Bank’s poverty line (3.65 dollar a day at purchasing power parity).

Meanwhile, many countries’ debt burdens have become less manageable, after governments were forced to increase public spending in response to the pandemic and the subsequent cost-of-living crisis. Today, only 27 developing countries – 18pc of the total – are not burdened with excessive debt. The rest are struggling with debt overhang, which undermines economic growth and development, and raises the risk of an eventual default. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates the debt-burden threshold for low-income countries is between 35pc and 70pc of GDP, after which debt can become unmanageable.

When debt-servicing costs are high, countries often end up making big sacrifices to stay solvent. For example, they might tap foreign exchange reserves, weakening their ability to respond to future crises, or reallocating resources from critical areas – such as education, health, and social protection – to keep up with their payments. In low-income countries, interest payments are now 2.3 times larger than spending on social assistance, and 1.4 times larger than domestic health expenditures, on average. They amount to 60pc of spending on education.

A country that reduces social spending to service its debts — despite the increase in poverty that will inevitably follow — is unlikely to be able to make long-term investments in sustainable development. And yet, as the UN and other multilateral organisations have made clear, a significant increase in financing, at both the national and international levels, is a prerequisite for achieving the SDGs by the 2030 deadline.

Thus, it is urgent to offer relief to countries that face debt distress. Governments should not have to choose between servicing their debts and taking care of their citizens, and today’s debts should not act as a drag on the future. Countries’ ability to manage their debt should be assessed against a broader range of indicators – human, social, and environmental, not just financial. Where debt relief, debt restructuring, or both is in order, it must be implemented quickly and efficiently as part of a comprehensive debt-management strategy, possibly making use of instruments like debt-for-climate swaps, which commit the debtor government to invest the savings from debt relief in climate adaptation or mitigation.

But debt relief alone is not enough.

If developing countries are to achieve the SDGs, they will need new sources of funding. So far, multilateral development banks (MDBs) have taken the lead on this front. As a recent OECD report shows, in 2012-20, outflows from the World Bank Group increased by 72pc, and outflows from other MDBs soared by 155pc. In 2021-22, total MDB outflows rose by another 22pc.

This trend is set to continue. Earlier this year, 10 MDBs estimated that they could collectively expand their lending headroom by an additional 300 billion to 400 billion dollars over the next decade. But this would mean an increase of only 40 billion dollars more a year – far less than the annual 260 billion dollars that the G20 Independent Expert Group estimates will be needed to meet the SDGs. To address the sustainable-development imperative, the MDBs will have to persuade their member states to increase their contributions proportionate to the scale of the challenges ahead.

Other multilateral organisations, such as the UN, as well as non-governmental donors and the private sector, must also ramp up their support.

Multilateral efforts should aim to tackle existing debt and expand access to affordable finance in the future, using a variety of instruments, including concessional loans, green and blue bonds, and grants. And policy measures must be coordinated at the international level. Otherwise, we stand little chance of achieving the SDGs by the 2030 deadline, with devastating consequences for people and the planet.

A Summit Caught Between Past, Future

Posted on by Kirabon

International cooperation tends to be hardest when it is needed most. Last week, world leaders convened in New York for the United Nations “Summit of the Future,” which member states called for in 2020, on the UN’s 75th anniversary. The meeting’s agenda was as ambitious as its name suggests, aiming to forge consensus on peace and security, development, new technologies, and the protection of future generations.

Member states agree on one point: the multilateral system established in 1945 needs significant upgrades to confront today’s global crises.

They are keenly aware of the UN’s inability to stop or even slow the wars in Sudan, Central Africa, Gaza, Ukraine, and a dozen other conflict zones. They acknowledge their failure to prepare the world for the next pandemic, even after witnessing the devastation of COVID-19. They recognise the need for rapid, serious action to address a sovereign debt crisis, an intensifying climate crisis, and the emergence of new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and gene editing.

Unfortunately, agreement on fixing the system does not extend to how. More than a year of grinding negotiations over the “Pact for the Future,” the summit’s outcome document, came concluded dramatically as Russia protested adoption of the final document, only to be overruled. Later, Argentina denounced the Pact as a “totalitarian agenda.” In reality, the document largely repeats previously agreed, abstract language. But amid the lofty words, there are signs of trends that could reshape global politics and help build the foundations for an international system capable of meeting current and future challenges.

After experiencing two world wars and facing the risk of nuclear escalation, the UN’s architects designed a multilateral system that would enable a handful of great powers to steer the world toward peace and advance their own interests. But, this kind of global governance is not fit for today’s world – and especially not for the roughly four billion people under the age of 30. Even in the face of continuing conflict on multiple continents, war is no longer the only item on the global agenda. Pandemics, climate change, poverty, mass migration, and technological catastrophes require effective and inclusive international action.

A much wider range of countries have enough power to influence world affairs. The rise of China has captured the most attention; but, it is far from the only country shaping the global agenda. Barbados has pushed for reform of the international financial system, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sought to reconfigure regional relations. Brazil will host the G20 this year and a make-or-break UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) next year.

Surprisingly, the “Pact for the Future” recognises this increasing multipolarity with concrete, albeit incremental, progress on one of the UN’s thorniest problems: reforming the Security Council.

After decades of false starts, member states are moving the process forward by agreeing to greater representation on the Council for “developing countries and small- and medium-sized states.” The pact also commits member states to discuss limits on the “scope and use” of the veto wielded by the Security Council’s five permanent members, revolves to treat the representation of African countries as a “special case,” and endorses an active role for the General Assembly when the Security Council fails to act.

Another trend reflected in the negotiations is the important role that companies, NGOs, cities, and other actors play in addressing global challenges, forming networks that complement national governments. From climate change to AI and misinformation, non-state entities are increasingly shaping the outcomes that matter most to people. The Pact for the Future pledges to “strengthen partnerships” across the “whole of society,” including local and regional governments, the private sector, academic and scientific communities, religious groups, and indigenous peoples. The Global Digital Compact, agreed as an annexe to the pact, identifies the private sector, researchers, and civil society as “essential” for achieving its goals and commits to multi-stakeholder cooperation.

Lastly, the summit embraced a shift toward longer-term governance. Climate change, pension schemes, infrastructure investment, and other “long problems” have causes and consequences that unfold over many generations. In the Declaration on Future Generations, a second annexe to the pact, countries affirm their commitment to “safeguard the needs and interests of future generations,” echoing the first line of the 1945 UN Charter, in which their predecessors pledged to “save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.”

These grand statements are grounded in specific actions taken by national governments intent on extending the horizon of decision-making. In 2015, Wales was the first government to establish a Commissioner for Future Generations. This month, the European Commission appointed a Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness. South Korea has also recently moved in this direction, with the Constitutional Court ordering the government to set more ambitious climate targets to protect future generations. To the extent that the declaration catalyzes more change, it could eventually be seen as a transformative force, much like the 1948 Universal Declaration on Human Rights.

In his 2021 “Our Common Agenda” report, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres foresaw a “future of perpetual crises, or a breakthrough to a better, more sustainable, peaceful future for our people and planet.” The Pact for the Future is not the breakthrough many had hoped for, but it begins to outline the contours of a new system that could rectify the shortcomings of the old one.

Phone Addiction, A Silent Epidemic

Posted on by Kirabon

In today’s social media-focused culture, many individuals prioritize their online presence over real-life interactions—with a surprising influence among mature adults rather than just the younger generations. My observations during various gatherings, including mourning visitations and celebrations, reveal that people, regardless of age, are often distracted by their phones, seeking notifications even when there are none, annoying those around them.

Many people return from vacations without truly enjoying them, as they prioritize documenting their experiences for social media over engaging with their companions. As a result, phones have increasingly taken precedence over real-life interactions, making it harder to capture the attention of adults compared to children. This obsession extends to dangerous behaviors, such as creating social media content while driving.

Many people today overlook the value of in-person interactions, opting for virtual connections with individuals they may never meet. I started noticing this trend after observing a couple at a restaurant who seemed to be unfamiliar with each other. After sitting down, the man quickly pulled out his phone, and after a few moments, the woman joined him. Both became engrossed in their devices instead of engaging in conversation, failing to recognize the need to communicate with one another.

When dining out with my husband and daughter at a popular restaurant, I observed how close seating makes it hard to ignore other diners. Many couples in their twenties and thirties are present, with those in their thirties often holding hands until they sit down. However, once seated, they quickly shift their focus to photographing their expensive meals and engaging with online reactions, treating each other as if they were strangers. They focus on sharing images of their meals rather than savoring them, chasing online popularity instead of personal happiness. Contrastingly and interestingly, younger diners tend to spend less time on their phones and return to conversation with their companions more often.

Similarly, and again in contrast to popular thinking, during mourning visitations and holidays, teenagers managed to converse with one another while only occasionally checking their phones. Adults, however, frequently interrupted discussions to engage with their devices, making focused conversations increasingly rare.

Couples, while appearing happy in social media photos, neglect their real-life companions. They prioritize online validation over genuine interactions, competing with others and overlooking their own blessings. Psychologists suggest that our daily activities shape our identities, and many people are unconsciously allowing their identities to be defined by excessive phone and social media use, losing sight of meaningful connections.

Individuals prioritize online validation from their followers over real-life interactions. They feel rewarded by their online presence and neglect to assess their offline relationships, believing that their virtual constructions are more valuable for maintaining a sociable image.

Individuals overlook the importance of real-life relationships, forgetting that true support comes from those who care for them. They forget it’s those in real life who can hold them up and give support when they need a helping hand. They are distracted by polished online images, neglecting the genuine relationships and love from people in their lives.

Everything comes with a cost, often unnoticed, and excessive focus on the online world distances us from real life. We have to aspire to find a balance rather than idealizing virtual experiences, doing so can help alleviate the stress of meeting unrealistic social media expectations.

Engaging with social media friends could be fine as long as we don’t neglect those next to us.

ATM Etiquete

Posted on by Kirabon

The Automated Teller Machine (ATM) has become an essential part of daily life, offering easy access to financial services. Many people visit ATMs on weekends, especially since banks are closed on Sundays, which often leads to cash shortages and long lines at the ATMs. However, it’s important for users to maintain a certain decorum to ensure a smooth and pleasant experience for everyone.

While waiting is normal, some individuals oddly choose to stand right next to others instead of behind them, openly watching others enter their PINs and conduct transactions. Often seeming confused and impatient, they frequently ignore social cues to look away or wait. In contrast, some ATMs include a design feature that protects users’ PINs from peering eyes with an open box around the keypad.

Some ATMs’ small openings restrict the number of cash notes that can be withdrawn—forcing users to make multiple transactions to get their desired amount and thus increasing frustration for those in line. This situation highlights a general lack of patience among many individuals waiting their turn.

The last time I was at an ATM, a man next to me was seemingly looking at my PIN. I glanced over at the man and he appeared completely oblivious to what was unfolding. Suddenly, a woman approached, which confused me further. Initially, I thought they were together, but it became clear they were strangers. I stayed silent, finished my transaction, and left feeling unsettled.

A key aspect of proper ATM etiquette is respecting the privacy of other users. While ATMs are public, individuals enter sensitive information like PINs, and standing too close can invade their privacy and cause discomfort. It’s essential to maintain a respectful distance to ensure others feel secure.

When using ATMs, it’s important to respect others’ privacy and practice patience, especially during busy times that lead to long lines. Being considerate, avoiding line-cutting, transacting speedily helps reduce tension. Still, patience is essential to allow everyone the space and time they need to complete their transactions without feeling hurried or anxious.

Another common issue with ATM etiquette are individuals who linger around after completing their transaction. While it may be tempting to watch the next user, this behavior is inconsiderate. It’s important to move away promptly after your transaction to allow others to use the ATM without feeling observed or uncomfortable.

Respecting the ATM itself is also important. Avoid leaning against the machine or placing items on it, as this can diminish its usability. Additionally, keep the area clean by not leaving trash—as a tidy ATM reflects thoughtfulness toward fellow users. Interestingly, I haven’t personally seen anyone leaning on an ATM or resting their belongings on it.

I have noticed that many people ignore ATM receipts, often leaving them on the ground or throwing them away, raising the question of why they choose to receive them if they serve no purpose. This behavior seems like unnecessary paper waste. Ironically, there are instances when a receipt is actually needed, but the machine has run out, causing inconvenience for

2,735,750,000

Posted on by Kirabon

The external debt (in dollars) of the transport and communication sector in 2023/24, which registered a drop of 30.3pc from 2019/20. This decline is anomalous given the sector’s infrastructure needs, especially with major railway and road projects. The drop could reflect debt restructuring or slowdowns in sectoral investment.