In the book Poor Economics, the authors explore the idea of the poverty trap and how it affects people across the world. In this blog, we review Poor Economics and its lessons on how to break the cycle of poverty.
Reflection from Orant's Support Team in Texas

Texas was recently hit with a devastating winter storm. Many people lost power and water. We bundled under blankets in cold houses trying to stay warm. Burst pipes damaged homes and property, which will be costly to repair. Texans are receiving energy bills in the thousands. Much like in Malawi, the poor bear the worst repercussions from unexpected disasters.
In the US, many of us feel entitled to electricity, WiFi, and a hot shower. Last week was a wake-up call. Many homes in Texas had no running water. Or we had running water, but our water was contaminated. We had to boil it before washing our hands, drinking, or cooking. It was an inconvenience, yes. But it was temporary. In so many Malawian communities, clean water is still a 30 minute walk or more away.
Because of the power outages last week, pharmacies and doctors in Texas were closed. People weren’t able to access medicine or treatment if they were sick. This, too, made us empathize with our friends on the other side of the world. People in Malawi can live an hour’s walk or more from the nearest medical center. Too often, centers have a limited supply of medicine. A trip to the doctor can take an entire day and might still end with no prescription.
Last week’s winter storm devastated much of our state. We send our deepest sympathies to all those who suffered worse than we did. Our experience invited us to reflect on why we’re doing what we’re doing. In other words, why we live in the US, but work to support those in Malawi.
We live in a global world. We share one planet. And our planet has limited resources. In the US, most of us benefit from those limited resources. In Malawi, most don’t. It is an important time to ask: What do we have? How can we share? How can we create a more equitable world? By asking these questions, we challenge our own comfort and complacency. We tap into a deep and irrefutable connection to others. Such questions invite us to act not from a place of self-service, but from a place of empathy, compassion, and community. What happens when we allow our hearts to extend beyond borders? Who do we become?
The Orant Journal
Creating Stability in Malawi One Year at a Time – Orant 2022 Recap
2022 Highlights at Orant Charities Africa. See what we accomplished.
Water is an Issue of Gender
Clean water is a gendered issue in Malawi. Women and girls bear the brunt of the water burden. Malita Chimbalame tells her story.
16 Reasons We Love Orant Charities Africa
Celebrate Orant's Sweet 16 with 16 reasons we love what we do.
Why is Malawi Poor?
Malawi is rich in democracy, peace, and spirit. But economically, Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the world. Why?
What does mudzi mean?
Orant Charities has named its annual gala mudzi. Orant’s mudzi is the global village of people united for our common mission in Malawi.
Takeaways from The Moment of Lift
Orant Charities highlights three takeaways from reading The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates -- how empowering women changes the world.
Interview with Orant Board Member Dr. Melda Phiri
Orant is excited to welcome Dr. Melda Phiri to our Board of Directors. Like Orant, Dr. Melda Phiri is committed to improving lives.
Orant’s Virtual World Awarded Best Educational XR Experience
In October 2021, Orant’s Virtual Experience received the Crystal Owl Award for "Best Educational XR Experience" at Stereopsia LATAM.
Connecting Globally on a Pixel Planet
Orant's Virtual Experience takes place in a custom VR home world, designed to connect global supporters with Malawian staff and programs.