Bolivia

Bolivia is located in South America, bordering Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile and Peru. It is one of the poorest countries in South America.

Approx 59% of the population lives in poverty and 24% of the population lives in extreme poverty. Bolivia ranks 104 out of 174 countries in human development.

Rural poverty is related to conditions which include low argicultural productivity, lack of infrastructure and little or no access to markets. In urban areas, poverty is related to low quality employment and reduced income.

Infant morality, illiteracy and malnutrition remains high in rural communities. Approx 800,000 children under 18 yrs of age and working as labourers in areas such as mining, harvesting crops and human trafficking.

Issues the Bolivian people face:

• Respiratory infections
• Diarrhoea
• Malnutrition
• Tuberculosis
• Dental Problems
• Colds and Flu
• Intestinal Parasites
• Anaemia

Bolivia is one of the wettest countries in the world. The annual rainfall is over 5000mm.

The Bolivian military recruit men as young as 14. 40% of the military forces are between the ages of 14 and 18. These young men should be in school.

Some examples pf what a monetary gift can purchase in Bolivia:
$10 and under: 10 chickens
$20 and under: pig, sheeps, five chickens
$40 and under: bicycle (used), guinea pigs
$100 and under: bicycle (new), cow, sewing machine

Income generating activities under $250:
Hot Dog 'carrier'
Hamburger 'carrier'
Bricklaying tools
Carpentry tools

Compassion International began working in Bolivia in 1975. Over 47,000 children participate in around 188 child development centres and Compassion Australia assists over 2,900 of these children. Currently there are around 113 Bolivian students enrolled in the Leadership Development Program and eight Child Survival Programs in operation.

To sponsor a child in Bolivia click here