Jessica Abrahams is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom. She specializes in covering topics around gender, global development and international affairs.

Devex Pro Insider: Trump and global development — everything you need to know

11 Nov 2024  |  Devex  |  English  |  Climate Change

Donald Trump's election as U.S. president raises concerns in the global development sector about potential aid funding cuts, rollback of climate commitments, and changes to multilateral agreements. The article discusses the implications for USAID and global development, highlighting the need for preparation. It also covers the expansion of the IMF's executive board to include more representation for Africa, the rebranding of the Overseas Development Institute to ODI Global, and various leadership changes in organizations like Save the Children UK and the Gates Foundation. The U.N. climate summit COP29 is set to begin amid concerns about Trump's policies, with discussions on climate finance and representation in global forums.

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Standard Bank Group World Resources Institute USAID International Monetary Fund African Union Overseas Development Institute Gates Foundation ActionAid UK Save the Children UK WHO Foundation Soros Economic Development Fund Rockefeller Foundation International Fund for Agricultural Development MSF Netherlands The New Humanitarian United Nations

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Adam Alqali is a development journalist based in Kano, Nigeria with over 5 years’ experience in investigative, fact checking, research and development reporting. He currently reports for amongst others, africacheck.org, Newsdiary online, National Review as well as African Newspage. 
He has ...

Mainstreaming Civil Society Voices in Summit of the Future Processes

01 Jul 2024  |  www.africannewspage.net  |  English  |  Sustainable Development Goals

The 69th UN Civil Society Conference (2024 UNCSC) in Nairobi, Kenya, focused on amplifying civil society voices ahead of the United Nations Summit of the Future (SOTF). The conference aimed to increase awareness and accountability, build multi-stakeholder coalitions, and innovate civil society's interaction with intergovernmental processes. Key figures like UN Secretary General António Guterres and Kenyan President William Ruto emphasized the importance of civil society in shaping global responses to challenges. The conference highlighted issues such as climate change, inequality, and the need for reform in global institutions. The outcome, the ImPACT for the Future Package, was presented to the public, emphasizing civil society's role in supporting member states and championing critical issues.

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Major Groups and Other Stakeholders Coordination Mechanism World Bank United Nations UN Security Council Bretton Woods Institutions International Monetary Fund UN General Assembly Coalition for the UN We Need Global NGO Executive Committee Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations

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Puja Bhattacharjee is an independent journalist based in Kolkata, India. She covers health, science, environment, gender, justice, rights, and culture. Check out her reporting portfolio at ****

Too Hot to Work

28 May 2024  |  www.asianscientist.com  |  English  |  Climate Change

Extreme heatwaves in Asia, particularly in India, China, and Myanmar, are severely impacting outdoor workers' health and productivity. The article highlights the case of Shamrul Sheikh, a mason in Kolkata, who suffered a severe accident due to heat stress. Experts emphasize the health risks, including dehydration, chronic kidney disease, and mental health issues. Various policy initiatives and interventions, such as Hong Kong's heat index guidelines and Singapore's Project HeatSafe, are being implemented to mitigate these effects. The article underscores the need for more adaptive solutions and the economic benefits of ensuring worker welfare.

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World Bank Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research World Weather Attribution Adrienne Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation Resilience Center Labour Department in Hong Kong Centre for Climate Research Singapore National University of Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Singapore Ministry of Health’s Heat Stress Expert Panel

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Anna Chibamu is a current affairs and political journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe. I also specialise in developmental features and profiling of high profile personalities.
In the past three years I have also started doing short mobile interviews, livestreaming of press conferences and making ...

Speaker of Parliament expects National Budget to eradicate poverty afflicting vulnerable populations

25 Oct 2023  |  www.newzimbabwe.com  |  English  |  National Budget

The Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda, emphasizes the need for the 2025 National Budget to address extreme poverty in Zimbabwe, particularly among vulnerable groups. He advocates for equitable development and community empowerment, urging that local resources benefit the communities rather than foreign companies. Mudenda highlights the importance of sound budgeting for economic growth and stability, drawing on quotes from notable figures and international meetings to support his stance. The article underscores the role of parliamentarians in ensuring that budgets reflect the priorities of transforming lives through investments in key sectors like agriculture, education, and health.

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World Bank Group Parliament of Zimbabwe International Monetary Fund

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Jitendra Choubey is Bangalore / New Delhi based Journalist. He writes on Environment, Climate Change, Natural hazard, Politics, Agriculture, Food, AgriBusiness, Agri-Technology and Science. He worked with magazine (Down To Earth) as well as daily newspaper (The New Indian Express) in India. He is ...

World Bank Group agrees to settle case claim abetting farmers’ killing, environmental destruction

09 Dec 2023  |  www.newindianexpress.com  |  English  |  Legal Settlement

The World Bank Group has agreed to settle a case accusing its private lending arm, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), of abetting killings and environmental destruction linked to the Tata-Mundra project in India and violent land-grabbing by the Palm oil company Dinant in Honduras. The IFC's support for Dinant, which included direct loans and financing through its subsidiary, led to significant violence in the Bajo Aguán Valley. Despite internal findings of wrongdoing, the IFC did not provide meaningful remedies, prompting legal action in the United States. Environmentalist Ashish Kothari calls for more cases against institutions like the IMF and World Bank for their role in global suffering.

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World Bank Group International Finance Corporation IMF Kalpvriksh

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Isabella Cota is a freelance journalist based in Ciudad de México, Mexico. As a former Bloomberg Correspondent she has covered Latin America's most exciting business, financial, political and social stories. She was previously with Reuters and has collaborated with The Guardian, BBC Mundo, NPR and ...

Eileen Gbagbo is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Here’s Where To Eat And Drink At The Davos World Economic Forum

15 Jan 2024  |  NDTV Profit  |  English  |  Food & Drink

Davos becomes a challenging place to book a restaurant during the World Economic Forum, with top spots like Restaurant Gentiana and dining rooms at hotels such as Grischa and Morosani being pre-booked by companies. Options for walk-ins include Lokal, known for its whiskey-cheese sauce-topped burgers, and Ochsen, famous for its hot stone-cooked meats. Other notable mentions are Panorama at Schatzalp Hotel, La Carretta with its Italian menu, and the bar at Hotel Europe. Padrino offers wood-fired pizzas, while Stall Valär features a contemporary European menu. Jody’s, with its tapas-focused menu, is fully booked for the week.

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World Bank Group World Economic Forum US Secretary of State Microsoft OpenAI Standard Chartered

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Jennifer Gnana is a multi-lingual journalist with experience in print and broadcast, currently based in Bahrain. She has extensive experience reporting on economic development in the Middle East, with a focus on GCC and Iran. Her specialty is feature writing and risk analysis. She is fluent in ...

Saudi Arabia pushes for Africa debt relief as private investments set to reach $25B

01 Oct 2024  |  Al-Monitor: Independent, trusted coverage of the Middle East  |  English  |  Africa

Saudi Arabia is actively seeking solutions to Africa's debt crisis, with Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan emphasizing the kingdom's commitment to development finance. At the Future Investment Initiative conference, Jadaan highlighted Saudi Arabia's $5 billion pledge and ongoing efforts to support African countries like Ghana and Ethiopia. The kingdom's investment in Africa is projected to reach $25 billion over the next decade, with significant private sector involvement. Saudi Arabia's trade with Africa remains robust, with recent credit agreements aimed at boosting bilateral trade. The article underscores Saudi Arabia's strategic role in addressing Africa's financial challenges.

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Mauritanian Investment Bank Standard Bank Group Saudi Export-Import Bank World Bank Group International Monetary Fund G20 United Nations Conference on Trade and Development

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Vanessa Gonye is an award winning journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe. She is currently focusing on print journalism, with health reporting being the major area she covers. 

She is however an all rounder and can take up any task at any given time. 

Vanessa has a passion for grassroots ...

Zim faces groundwater drought: WB

02 Oct 2024  |  Southern Eye  |  English  |  Agriculture

A World Bank Group report highlights the severe impact of climate change on Zimbabwe's agriculture, water, forestry, and energy sectors, with a particular focus on the high risk of groundwater drought. The report warns that without adaptation measures, the percentage of the population at very high risk of groundwater drought could rise significantly. Climate change is also affecting energy demand and forest ecosystems, increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires. Zimbabwe is currently experiencing its worst drought in years, leaving over five million citizens in need of urgent food aid.

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World Bank Group

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Damian Gowela is a Tanzanian journalist based in Dar es Salaam. Working as a bilingual journalist for Tanzania Standard Newspapers [TSN] in English at Dailynews and Sundaynews and Kiswahili at HabariLeo.

Citizen centric judicial modernisation is beacon of hope

23 Jul 2024  |  Daily News - Tanzania Standard Newspapers  |  English  |  Public Trust

The Judiciary of Tanzania's citizen-centric judicial modernization project is transforming access to justice and public trust in the court systems. Chief Registrar Eva Nkya highlighted the project's role in enhancing justice services and stakeholder engagement. The project includes constructing courts with updated technology and e-justice services, aiming to improve efficiency, transparency, and access to justice. The World Bank Group praised the project's progress, with Senior Governance Specialist Benjamin Mtesigwa expressing optimism for its impactful conclusion. The project plans to construct Integrated Justice Centres and expand high court services by 2025, with a focus on transparency, accountability, and system engagement.

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World Bank Group Judiciary of Tanzania

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A freelance political journalist, columnist, commentator and editor...

David Hutt is a political journalist based between the Czech Republic and Britain. He focuses on European foreign policy, Central European politics, and relations between Europe and Asia. He is also an expert on Southeast ...

Can Southeast Asia Stop Using Coal-Fired Power Plants?

28 Dec 2023  |  www.dw.com  |  Indonesian  |  Climate Change

Indonesia and Vietnam are advancing their energy transition plans with significant financial backing from the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) and international partners. Indonesia aims to increase its renewable energy share to 44% by 2030, while Vietnam has set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, challenges remain, including the reliance on loans rather than grants and the exclusion of certain coal-fired power plants from Indonesia's targets. The European Commission has praised Vietnam's efforts, but environmentalists express concerns over the sustainability of these plans.

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World Bank European Investment Bank International Partners Group Just Energy Transition Partnership G7 French Development Agency Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero European Commission

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Madalitso Kateta is a Malawian freelance journalist based in the capital Lilongwe. Kateta specialises in developmental reporting, mostly reporting on Human Rights including Gender and Child Rights, Environment and Economics.

Can African countries overcome the cycle of debt?

02 Nov 2023  |  Devex  |  English  |  Climate Change

African leaders are advocating for a reform of the global financial system to better support developing nations in managing economic challenges and climate change impacts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, African countries accrued significant debt to sustain their economies, a situation highlighted by key figures such as Kenyan President William Ruto, African Union Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat, and African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina in a New York Times essay. This call for change comes ahead of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund meetings.

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World Bank African Development Bank Group African Union Commission International Monetary Fund

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Mehmood Khan is a journalist based in Lahore, Pakistan.

Global Healthspan Summit 2023: closing the gap between healthspan and lifespan

14 Mar 2024  |  Nature  |  English  |  Science & Environment

The Global Healthspan Summit 2023 focused on bridging the gap between healthspan and lifespan, with contributions from a diverse group of participants, including academics, industry experts, and representatives from health and aging-related organizations. The report acknowledges the knowledge and insights shared by summit participants, speakers, and panelists, listing individuals from various institutions and companies who contributed to the discussions.

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Boston Consulting Group World Health Organization World Bank King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences Columbia University House of Lords NYU Grossman School of Medicine Hevolution Foundation National University of Singapore Stanford Medicine Life Bioscience Milken Institute Center for the Future of Aging Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia Saudi Food and Drug Authority American Federation for Aging Research Apollo Health Ventures Andreessen Horowitz XPRIZE Foundation Harvard University Center for African Studies Buck Institute for Research on Aging University College London Methuselah Foundation Impetus Grants JABS Medtech Voyager Space Gulf Center for Disease Prevention and Control Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative Longevity Vision Fund

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Niranjan Marjani is a journalist based in Vadodara, India.

Fight Against Climate Change: Morocco's New Strategy

16 Feb 2024  |  www.atalayar.com  |  Spanish  |  Economic Policy

Morocco is advancing its fight against climate change with a new strategy focused on green energy and sustainable financing. The country has significantly reduced its energy dependence and increased its renewable energy capacity. Key figures, including Abdellatif Jouahri Wali and Mohamed Kettani, emphasize the role of the banking sector in supporting green initiatives. Morocco's efforts include ambitious national plans and international commitments, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and attract private investment for a sustainable transition.

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Attijariwafa bank Groupement professionnel des banques marocaines World Bank Bank Al-Maghrib Banco de España

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Nagham Mohanna is a journalist.
I have been working in media and journalism for more than 15 years I worked with many international, regional and local outlets I covered four wars in Gaza besides number of important events, I travelled abroad to develop my skills in journalism and I have conducted ...

Gaza authorities reject Israeli claims of aid surge

11 Apr 2024  |  The National  |  English  |  Famine

Gaza authorities have disputed Israeli claims of increased aid deliveries, with the enclave's needs still largely unmet. Israel's Cogat reported a record number of lorries entering Gaza, but UNRWA's count was lower. The UN warns of impending famine in northern Gaza by May without more aid. Israel plans to open a new aid crossing, but Gaza officials say no aid has come through it. Discrepancies in lorry counts are attributed to Cogat's half-full lorries for screening purposes, while UN counts full lorries at warehouses. Gaza needs 1,000 lorries daily to address deficits, but the actual number fluctuates. Residents report not receiving aid or knowing how to access it, despite some noticing lower market prices. UNICEF's aid convoy faced danger, and there have been civilian casualties around aid lorries due to Israeli fire.

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World Central Kitchen World Bank International Crisis Group World Food Programme UNRWA Cogat United Nations Children's Fund

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Ibrahim NTOUTOUM’OBIANG-ENDAMA is a journalist based in Libreville, Gabon.
I am an Image Reporter Journalist and freelancer. I make several trips to other provinces of the country, in order to produce video, paper and audio reports.

CEMAC: 62 billion FCFA to reduce the deficit of basic social infrastructure

17 Dec 2024  |  AGP Gabon  |  French  |  Economic Aid

The Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) leaders celebrated the successful replenishment of IDA21 resources by the World Bank Group, amounting to over 62 billion FCFA, aimed at reducing the significant deficit in basic infrastructure in the region. These funds will support 78 countries in need, focusing on health, education, infrastructure, and climate resilience, while stabilizing economies and creating jobs. The concessional financing from IDA is crucial for economic self-sufficiency and improving quality of life in these countries.

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World Bank Group CEMAC IDA

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Richie Santosdiaz is a known international trade and economic development subject matter expert - both as a consultant as well as commentator on this realm in both print and also video (live and pre-recorded). He is bilingual (English and Spanish) and has done 100+ pieces/interviews mainly in the ...

Sri Lanka On the Road to Recovery: Fintech's Impact on the Economy

10 Nov 2024  |  thefintechtimes.com  |  English  |  Fintech

Sri Lanka's economy, once a strong market in South Asia, has faced significant challenges due to terrorist attacks, tax cuts, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these setbacks, the fintech sector is emerging as a potential catalyst for economic recovery. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has launched initiatives like the regulatory sandbox and the National Financial Inclusion Strategy to boost fintech innovation. Mobile payment apps, digital wallets, and partnerships between fintechs and traditional financial institutions are driving financial inclusion. The Fintech Association of Sri Lanka is also supporting sector development. Fintech's growth could help Sri Lanka overcome its economic challenges and move towards prosperity.

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World Bank Group Central Bank of Sri Lanka International Finance Corporation Fintech Association of Sri Lanka

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Derrick Silimina is a journalist based in Lusaka, Zambia.

IMF/World Bank annual meeting kicks off

21 Oct 2024  |  solwezitoday.com  |  English  |  International Cooperation

Zambia's Finance and National Planning Minister, Situmbeko Musokotwane, leads a delegation to the 2024 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group in Washington DC. The delegation aims to promote investments in key sectors and enhance social sector spending. The meetings are seen as an opportunity to engage with development partners and investors to support Zambia's economic recovery and growth. The delegation will participate in various events and hold bilateral talks with IMF and World Bank officials, focusing on cooperation and investment opportunities. The Zambian government emphasizes sustainable economic development and avoiding unsustainable debt.

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World Bank Group International Monetary Fund Zambian Government

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I'm an energy and environment multimedia journalist, based in Brussels. I specialise in EU politics and EU policy, particularly around energy, climate, environment and circular economy. I've covered stories, both on the politics and practicalities of these topics. Previously, I was an investigative ...

Green ambition missing from the UK’s budget

05 Nov 2024  |  foresightmedia.com  |  English  |  Energy Transition

The UK's new budget under the Labour Party is critiqued for lacking the necessary ambition to meet energy and climate goals, despite moving in the right direction. Sam Kimmins from Climate Group highlights the need for more urgent action. Globally, Canada aims to cut oil and gas emissions, France maintains its energy targets, and Ireland risks missing climate goals. The UN and World Bank emphasize the importance of well-managed carbon market projects and climate resilience in developing countries.

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World Bank Climate Group Labour Party Canadian Government Montel News United Nations Trade and Development

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Cassandra Vinograd is a freelance journalist and producer specializing in conflict, human rights and migration. She previously worked for NBC News, The Associated Press and The Wall Street Journal. Her reporting has taken her throughout Africa, Europe and the Middle East. 

She is HEFAT certified....

U.S. Plans New Sanctions on Iran After Attack on Israel

16 Apr 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Diplomacy

The United States plans to impose new sanctions on Iran following a missile and drone attack on Israel, which was in retaliation for an Israeli airstrike in Syria. The sanctions aim to cut off Iran's access to military components. The European Union and other international bodies are also considering additional sanctions. The conflict has escalated tensions in the Middle East, with various diplomatic efforts underway to prevent a broader regional war. Key figures like Jake Sullivan, Janet L. Yellen, and Yoav Gallant have made statements regarding the situation, emphasizing the need for strategic and measured responses.

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Group of 7 World Bank United States European Union Hezbollah Hamas United Nations International Monetary Fund Pentagon Israeli military International Criminal Court

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Brian Yatich is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya.

WeLight Connects 186 Villages Across Africa, Transforming Lives of Over 1 Million People

03 Dec 2024  |  The East African Business Times  |  English  |  Sustainable Development

WeLight has successfully connected 186 villages in Africa, including 172 in Madagascar and 14 in Mali, to electricity, benefiting over 200,000 individuals and impacting more than one million people. The company's mini-grid model, which operates without subsidies, has demonstrated scalability and profitability. Supported by partners like Norfund, Axian Group, and the European Investment Bank, WeLight is poised to expand into Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to connect 300 million people to electricity by 2030, addressing the needs of over 600 million Africans without power.

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African Development Bank World Bank European Investment Bank Axian Group Norfund

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Peter Yeung is a journalist based in Paris, France.

How migration transformed an Indigenous town in Panama’s Darien Gap

19 Mar 2024  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Economic Impact

Bajo Chiquito, a remote Indigenous community in Panama, has been transformed into a bustling hub due to its location on a major migration route through the Darién Gap. The influx of migrants has brought economic opportunities, with local businesses thriving by providing essential services. However, this boom has also led to cultural shifts, environmental challenges, and strains on local infrastructure. Community leaders express concerns about the long-term impact on traditional practices and the sustainability of the current economic model. Despite these challenges, the residents show solidarity with the migrants, offering support and understanding their plight.

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World Bank International Crisis Group UNICEF International Organization for Migration Panama’s Ministry of Social Development University of British Columbia International Labour Organisation

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