Hunger Project Thesis

Hunger and poverty are serious, worldwide issues that negatively affect the lives of millions of people. “Globally, one in nine people in the world today (815 million) are undernourished,” (Source 3). Millions of people are struggling to survive due to the malicious effects of starvation, which include: malnutrition, stunted growth, lowered mental capability, and even death. In order to build a foundation for development and prosperity, hunger and poverty must come to an end. “Good nourishment in the earliest years of life can give children the opportunity to grow, learn, become productive adults and break the cycle of poverty,” (Source 6). As part of a new sustainable development plan, the United Nations adopted the “Zero Hunger” goal. By
One of The Hunger Project’s strategies to fighting worldwide hunger is through empowering women. In developing countries, social and gender norms make is difficult for women to achieve empowerment. Ricardo, an indigenous woman from the communities of Altos Chiapas, is a participant in The Hunger Project-Mexico’s initiative called “The Sun of the Butterflies.” She challenged social norms and negotiated with her father to take workshops for womens’ rights, food sovereignty, land rights, etc. Education about nutrition, soil, and food sovereignty were among the topics of discussions she has lead (Source 4). Through educating women about land rights, nutrition, and food sovereignty, women will be able to achieve a higher crop yield, helping them provide more nutritious food for their families. Another success story involves Louise Lagni from Dotan, Benin. Five years ago, she struggled to be heard at her village’s discussions. “After following The Hunger Project’s Vision, Commitment and Action (VCA) workshops at Zakpota Epicenter, I felt much more confident about expressing my opinions,” she says. Over the course of five years, Louise and her friend garnered over 70 members in their women’s group. The women in her village can now take bold actions, expand their trade and businesses, and are more involved in their community’s decision-making. Louise states, “Today, we can all individually take out loans, and this has given us many possibilities.” Louise hopes to continue to empower her family and community (Source 4). The involvement of women in decision-making allows for development. Being able to receive loans and start businesses can raise income for many struggling women, allowing them to provide more food for their families. One major obstacle towards female empowerment is the lack of useful resources accessible to female farmers. According to The Food and Agriculture