Is Poverty A Choice?

The 2023 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) report released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has provided a crucial assessment of poverty worldwide. With data collected from 110 developing nations, representing 92 per cent of the global population, the report highlights the pervasive nature of poverty. It offers insights into the lives of the poor and the severity of their conditions. While progress has been made in poverty reduction, the report also calls for urgent updates in multidimensional poverty data and notes that certain regions, particularly the Middle East and North Africa, still face significant challenges.

The World Bank's 2023 Poverty and Inequality Platform (PIP) revealed that the global poverty headcount ratio at $2.15 rose slightly to 8.5 per cent, increasing the number of people living in extreme poverty. This rise was mainly driven by regions such as South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, where conflict and fragility remain significant barriers to poverty reduction. Sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, continues to have a large number of extreme poverty, and political instability in the Sahel region poses a further threat to poverty levels in the continent.

The Covid-19 pandemic amplified existing vulnerabilities, hitting the most vulnerable parts of society and fragile states the hardest. Poverty, hunger, violent protests, and political instability surged globally, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global challenges. These reports highlight the urgent need to address the root causes of poverty and strengthen governance, especially in regions experiencing conflict and political unrest.

The African Union (AU) plays a critical role in tackling poverty on the continent. However, it is essential to acknowledge that poverty is often a result of choices made by governments and societies. Some AU member countries must be more active in dealing with internal conflicts perpetuating poverty. Instead of confronting these issues, some leaders have aligned themselves with coup plotters, further undermining stability and development.

Political maladministration and mismanagement of resources, notably minerals, in southern and central African countries have also increased poverty. To address this, African countries must prioritize good governance, accountability, and transparency in managing their resources. By doing so, they can effectively address citizens' discontent and reduce the likelihood of uprisings.

The call for unity is vital in addressing poverty and related challenges. By establishing a single market and implementing continent-wide legislation on trade, African countries can enhance transparency and foster economic growth. Embracing technologies for greater transparency can further enhance accountability in resource management.

In addition to the UNDP's 2023 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index report findings, Population Matters, a global charity organization, sheds light on another critical aspect of poverty reduction – the need for sustainable population control. Despite significant advancements in well-being and economic conditions for millions, a staggering 10% of the global population still struggles to survive on less than $2 a day. This unfortunate reality underscores the urgency of addressing population management as a critical factor in breaking the cycle of poverty.

In conclusion, the achievements of countries like the Asian Tigers provide valuable insights into the fight against poverty. By taking deliberate actions to develop domestic policies, reduce reliance on foreign aid, invest in education, and embrace good governance, these nations successfully lifted millions out of poverty and set an example for the world. Poverty is not an inevitable fate but a result of choices in managing resources and fostering prosperity. Empowered with the right strategies and a shared commitment to change, nations can create a brighter future for their people, free from poverty.

A concerted effort is required to eradicate poverty in all its manifestations, including good governance, transparency, and accountability in resource management. Embracing technology and implementing continent-wide legislation on trade can enhance transparency and promote economic growth. Furthermore, sustainable population control measures are crucial to breaking the cycle of poverty and achieving a better future for all. Only by acting together, with a shared commitment to eradicating poverty, can we create a world where every individual can live a life of dignity and opportunity.

The writer is Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium, Mission to the European Union, Organization of African Caribbean and Pacific States and World Customs Organization. The article is written at a personal level.