Positive Changes in Countries, Part 39 of a Multi-part Series – Dependable Governments, Dependable Citizens: Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands

The Republic of Mali is a sizable country in West Africa and home to approximately 21 million people, representing many ethnic groups and speaking an even greater number of languages. Good news here: To reduce its reliance on unsustainable energy sources, Mali embarked on a course of action to harness the sun’s power. By 2019, Mali had an installed photovoltaic capacity of 20 megawatts. The Malian government strives to improve health care for its most vulnerable citizens. In 2019, it announced that pregnant women and children under 5 years old would receive free medical treatment. Yes, and another development: Farmers have been learning climate-smart agricultural techniques to produce more food.

The Republic of Malta is a small archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and North Africa. Toward the end of 2021, the Council of the European Union accepted Malta’s plan for creating economic recovery and growth after COVID-19. The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan works to ensure the mindful use of natural resources in Malta. Malta is also transitioning to a circular economy through effective recycling reforms. And the fastest way to rescue our world – which we know is veganism – is becoming more popular. Vegan Malta Eats, a public Facebook group where people can connect, share recipes and recommend their favorite restaurants, has attracted almost 15,000 members!

The Republic of the Marshall Islands is a small country in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, about halfway between the Philippines and Hawaii. The Marshallese are growing more of their own food. The EU-funded Scaling Up Pacific Adaptation project is helping atoll communities to build resilience against climate change. At the same time, the government seeks to enhance islanders’ health by promoting more nutritious food choices, aerobic exercise, and regular checkups. The Early Childhood Development Project aspires to ensure a healthy and bright future for Marshallese infants and toddlers. I’m pleased to add that plant-based eating has been accepted in the Marshall Islands as part of a treatment for Type 2 diabetes.