In Europe and Central Asia, ten countries that have reached high-income status since 1990 have joined the European Union. Another 20 in the region have become more prosperous but their transition to high-income status has been delayed.
• What challenges are they facing?
• How can...
This study investigates drought conditions in Vietnam and its seven sub-climatic regions using the Standardized Precipitation-Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). SPEI was derived from daily, high-resolution (10-km) precipitation and temperature products from the CMIP6-VN dataset, which...
In Egypt, the universal health insurance reform is making steady progress, with its rollout now extended to six governorates, reaching nearly 5 million beneficiaries.
In Ismaïlia, where over 80% of the population is already enrolled, notable improvements are being seen: enhanced quality of...
Faced with the worsening triple burden of malnutrition—undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and obesity—particularly in developing countries, it is becoming urgent to fundamentally rethink food systems. This joint AFD and CIRAD brief is part of this dynamic...
This paper examines income inequality in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) region, using recent harmonized household survey data across eight member countries.
The study explores the levels and drivers of inequality by assessing the differences between income- and...
Mining activity sparks both fantasies and, at times, criticism, particularly among funders and traditional international cooperation actors. By its very nature, any extractive activity is unsustainable, as it involves selling a product—whether processed or not—whose...
Marine heatwaves, intensified by climate change, are placing increasing pressure on tropical coral reefs and threatening their resilience. Understanding these phenomena and their ecological impacts is essential to better anticipate risks and adapt conservation strategies. This article explains...
Over the past several years, Benin has demonstrated promising momentum, characterized by strong and resilient economic growth and a drive for structural reforms. The macro-fiscal trajectory appears favorable in the short to medium term, supported by one of the most dynamic growth rates on the...
2024 was marked by the ambition of strengthening global governance and political support in the water and sanitation sector, whether at the World Water Forum in Bali, with the publication of the United Nations System-wide Strategy for Water and Sanitation, or at the One Water Summit in Riyadh,...
Despite an international situation that continues to be particularly uncertain, annual commitments for water and sanitation have increased by 30% between 2020 and 2024 compared to 2014-2019. At the end of 2024, the ongoing project portfolio now exceeds €10 billion.
Discover...
When a project ends, AFD's operational teams systematically assess the project's progress—resources, achievements, and results—by drafting a completion report. A project evaluation can then be conducted to better understand what worked well and what didn't, for example, with a view to improving...
Since gaining independence, Tanzania has maintained political stability and avoided
major conflicts, despite recurring periods of authoritarian rule. This stability has fostered strong economic
growth, backed by international donors. In 2020, Tanzania achieved lower-middle-income...
South Africa faces an enduring unemployment crisis compounded by structural inequalities. Public Employment Programs (PEPs) represent a critical intervention in this landscape, offering income support, fostering social inclusion,V and bridging gaps between social assistance and active labour...
In the Three Oceans, AFD focuses its operations on economic and social development, and on tackling common challenges such as climate change and inequalities.
To provide a holistic response to cross-border issues and promote regional integration between the French Overseas Territories...
Papua New Guinea, which accounts for 80% of the Pacific island population and is home to one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots, is a key partner for AFD Group.
This partnership...
At the crossroads of environmental, health and social issues, universal access to clean and efficient cooking (CEC) is crucial. While international funding is being mobilized to support this transition, there is still a lack of field research that would help steer it towards cost-effective...
East African countries have joined forces to create an electricity backbone to trade energy and compensate for shortages in the region. Supported by a €90 million loan from AFD, the Kenya-Ethiopia interconnection is guaranteeing stable electricity to 870,000 Kenyan households while providing...
Approximately half of the target population is excluded from a South African social assistance programme intended to provide income support to working-age adults—the Covid 19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. To date research has not systematically investigated the drivers and mechanisms by...
The AI Investment Potential Index (AIIPI) 2025 represents a significant advancement in the systematic evaluation of global readiness and attractiveness for artificial intelligence (AI) investments. Building upon the foundational framework established in 2024, AIIPI 2025 integrates cutting-edge...