Solar energy in Kenya, and other news (20 Mar 2019)

From disaster relief in Mozambique and Malawi, to development spending in Bangladesh and clean energy in Keyna

Every week we highlight some of the international development stories from across the globe that have caught our attention.

  • Six million GBP of UK aid has been made available to support those affected by Cyclone Idai in Mozambique and Malawi. Hygiene, shelter and tool kits are being supplied and DFID experts are working on the ground to coordinate the UK’s disaster response. Read more in CNBCAfrica.
  • Development spending from Bangladesh’s government has risen during the first eight months of the fiscal year. During the same time, fewer funds from the portion of the country's budget given to foreign aid have been used. Read more in The Daily Star (Bangladesh).
  • Following a meeting of Indonesian ambassadors and heads of mission in February, the Indonesian President, Joko Widodo, has said Indonesia will assist in dealing with crises as a result of conflict, and fostering world peace. Steps have been taken to aid Jordan in supporting the large number of Syrian and Palestinian refugees. Connections are also being created between Indonesia and UN humanitarian bodies. Read more in Jordan Times.
  • Two million tonnes of carbon emissions have been cut across Africa through the work of The Department for International Development’s Transforming Energy Access programme. The UK’s Minister for Africa, has announced InfraCo Africa will develop two solar plants in Samburu and Transmara, increasing access to affordable and clean energy. The government of Kenya aims to achieve universal electricity access by 2022. Read more in IT News Africa.
  • Supported by the World Health Organisation's Expanded Special Project for the Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases, two million children in Nigeria have received treatment for Schistosomiasis, an illness caused by parasitic worms linked to unclean water. Read more in All Africa.
  • The pilot of DFID’s What Works to Prevent Violence Initiative research programme in the Democratic Republic of Congo has seen a reduction of violence against women by 58% in two years. Read more in Pulse (Nigera).