Poverty, a persistent and pervasive issue, affects millions of people worldwide and remains a profound injustice in an era of unprecedented wealth. According to the World Bank, over 9% of the global population—or approximately 719 million people—live on less than $2.15 a day. Despite progress in reducing poverty rates over the past decades, extreme poverty remains entrenched in many regions due to economic inequality, weak governance, and systemic barriers. The fact that extreme poverty still exists in a world capable of generating vast wealth and technological advancement is a moral failure. The gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen, with the world’s richest 1% holding more than double the wealth of 6.9 billion people (Oxfam, 2023). Addressing poverty is not only a matter of economic justice but a humanitarian imperative; no one should be condemned to a life of deprivation in a world with ample resources.
Poverty in Africa and Madagascar
Africa is home to the largest share of people living in extreme poverty. In 2022, about 60% of the world’s extremely poor people lived in Sub-Saharan Africa (World Bank). In Madagascar, poverty is particularly severe, with nearly 75% of the population living on less than $1.90 per day. The lack of access to quality education and healthcare exacerbates the cycle of poverty. Only about 37% of Malagasy children complete secondary school, and the healthcare system is underfunded, leaving millions without adequate services (World Bank, 2023). This lack of education limits job opportunities, while poor health reduces productivity, trapping families in cycles of intergenerational poverty. The rural population is the most affected, where access to basic services is especially limited.
Targeting Rural Populations with Sustainable Income Generation
Targeting rural populations with sustainable income-generating activities, like sustainable agriculture, is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty. Most rural communities in Africa rely on subsistence farming but face challenges such as poor soil quality, climate change, and lack of access to markets. By introducing sustainable agriculture practices—such as crop diversification, agroecology, and water conservation—farmers can increase yields and generate income while reducing their environmental footprint. Sustainable agriculture not only improves food security but also provides a reliable source of income, enabling families to invest in education and healthcare. These activities promote long-term resilience and self-sufficiency, offering rural populations a path out of extreme poverty.
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FTA focuses on these rural populations because they are disproportionately affected by extreme poverty. These communities, often overlooked by broader development efforts, face barriers to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. FTA’s mission is to empower rural communities through sustainable farming and income-generation projects that address the root causes of poverty. By prioritizing these vulnerable groups, FTA aims to create systemic change, providing rural populations with the tools and knowledge they need to improve their livelihoods and break free from the cycle of poverty. This targeted approach ensures that development initiatives reach those most in need, fostering sustainable development from the ground up.
Sources:
- World Bank Poverty Data: World Bank Poverty Overview
- Oxfam Wealth Inequality Report: Oxfam Report
- World Bank Madagascar Education & Poverty Data: World Bank Madagascar Data