POVERTY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES (AFRICA)

It is no more news that most developing nations of the world suffer abject poverty. Why is this so? It has been a huge bother to me that this is the situation we’ve found ourselves so I thought it wise to research into this and also thought it wise to share.

Poverty can be said to be a condition where people’s basic needs for clothing, food and shelter are not being met. Poverty is actually of two types viz absolute and relative poverty. Absolute poverty occurs when people cannot obtain adequate resources to support a minimum level of physical health why relative poverty occurs when people do not enjoy a certain minimum level of living standards as determined by a government.

WHY IS POVERTY PREVALENT IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES?
Research has shown that Africa has the richest natural resources but the big question is “ Why are we very poor and stagnant in development? The most valid reason among others is CORRUPTION. Corruption occurs mostly when the government does not use money responsibly, rather they use it for themselves. Corruption destroys trust between the government and its people.

Secondly, in Africa people own large chunks of land that are underutilized or sometimes not even used at all. This is partly because they are either not educated on what to do with the land or because some people are just so stiff to advancements in technology. Most people just use land to grow food crops which is consumed by their families… nothing goes to the market for sale

Thirdly, Africa has a very poor infrastructural setup. They have poor roads, water systems, railways ,etc whereas these are the major drivers of economic development. Importantly, the loans given out by the world bank and International Monetary have contributed to the poverty problem in Africa. Their loans come with very strict conditions which usually require the government to adjust some of their economic decisions.

WAYS TO CURB POVERTY
First and foremost, I would say that a better government intervention can help reduce the poverty status of Africans. The presence of a non- corrupt government would do the magic. It is also important to note that implementation with aims of fighting corruption can help create a balance in the society. The government can also curb poverty by providing the essential social amenities that would help elevate the standard of living of its citizens.
In as much as the government has a huge role to play in curbing poverty, the individuals are not left aside. Africans should reasons in valuing education and also try to come in terms with entrepreneurship as this will go a long way in changing their financial status.

I hope this writeup encourages someone!!! Feel free to drop your comments/ suggestions.