1) The Human Development Index (HDI), a staple measurement of poverty since 1990, faces a stiff challenge by the new Multidimensional Poverty Index (MDI) developed by Oxford University. Whilst the creator of the index (Sabina Alkire) will offer up a stern defence of her work, the criticism has been consistent and broadening of the debate, first from Martin Ravillion of the World Bank here, and then by Duncan Green of Oxfam here.
2) The Rwandan elections are due to be held on August 9, and many expect current president, Paul Kagame to win convincingly, albeit with a small drop from his 95.1% victory in 2003. Rwanda has come a very long, and successful way since genocide in 1994, with greater power comes greater responsibility, Rwanda faces scrutiny for its democratic record. The BBC has produced some commentary on the upcoming election, a must listen is found here.
3) Cote d’Ivoire marks 50 years of Independence on August 7. French agency RFI has an excellent podcast profiling the life of first president, Felix Houphouet-Bogny, and the aftermath of his demise. A history can be seen here too.
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