In 2015, the West Africa Trade and Investment Hub launched an initiative to broaden its network of financial institutions, as most banks in West Africa are risk-adverse and, therefore, often are not often interested in small agribusinesses and start-ups.
On Sept. 27, 2016, the second YouthPower Annual Learning Network meeting occurred in Washington, D.C. The invitation-only gathering included a panel of Young Southeast Asia Leaders Initiative alumni and provided an opportunity to learn about major innovations from YouthPower indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity members that have broad applicability.
In January 2016, Banyan Global completed a detailed gender analysis report for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)/Kenya East Africa to assist the mission in developing the Regional Development Cooperation Strategy (RDCS) for 2016–2020.
The West African impact investment fund Injaro, through its Ghanaian subsidiary, signed a $3.5 million investment agreement with a Ghanaian producer and exporter of pineapple and other fruits.
The Philippines is undergoing rapid urbanization: According to UN-Habitat, the percentage of Filipinos living in urban areas will grow from 50% currently to 84% by 2050.
Women’s empowerment is a key focus of many development activities, but are programs missing an ingredient for success?