Background
As the world grapples with the escalating crises of hunger and poverty, the African Global Development Initiative (AGDI) is poised to make a meaningful impact in combating hunger and poverty in the United States of America and Nigeria. The African Global Development Initiative (AGDI) is launching at a critical juncture in history, when collective action is imperative to address the staggering statistics that reveal the severity of these issues.
The world is facing a hunger crisis of unprecedented proportions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 828 million people suffer from hunger worldwide. The World Food Programme (WFP) reports that 1 in 9 people globally do not get enough food, and the Global Report on Food Crises reveals that hunger has increased by 25% since 2019.
The statistics on poverty and inequality are equally alarming. The World Bank reports that 736 million people live in extreme poverty, defined as less than $1.90 per day. Oxfam’s (2022) findings reveal that the wealthiest 1% hold 39% of global wealth, while the poorest half hold less than 1%. The United Nations reports that the global poverty rate has stagnated since 2015.
Food insecurity is a pressing issue in the United States as well. The USDA reports that 37 million people live in households that are food insecure, with 1 in 8 households with children experiencing food insecurity. Feeding America notes that food insecurity disproportionately affects communities of color, with 21% of African American households and 18% of Hispanic households experiencing food insecurity.
Meanwhile, Nigeria faces significant challenges related to poverty and hunger. The World Bank reports that 83 million people live in extreme poverty, with 40% of the population living below the poverty line. UNICEF notes that Nigeria has the highest number of stunted children under 5 years old globally.
Climate change and conflict have exacerbated the issues of hunger and poverty. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports that climate change has led to a 23% increase in global hunger since 2012. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) notes that conflict and violence have displaced millions, further entrenching hunger and poverty.
The Covid-19 pandemic has pushed an additional 97 million people into extreme poverty, according to the World Bank. The Global Report on Food Crises reveals that food insecurity has increased by 25% since the pandemic began.
In light of these alarming statistics, the African Global Development Initiative (AGDI) is crucial to address the pressing issues of hunger and poverty. By providing sustainable support and empowerment programs, the foundation can help alleviate hunger, empower communities, promote social justice, and build resilience. The time for collective action is now, and the African Global Development Initiative (AGDI) is poised to make a meaningful impact in the lives of marginalized communities in Nigeria and the United States.
