-
Sewing her way to a goal
An artisan cooperative of disabled Moroccan women are turning MCC-funded business and literacy training into new opportunities.
-
Modernizing Moldova’s agricultural future
MCC and USAID are partnering to improve weak links in agricultural value chains in Moldova as part of an effort to make Europe's poorest country more regionally competitive.
-
Sculpting MCC’s lasting legacy
A group of 300 coppersmiths in Fez, Morocco, chose a name for their newly formed association that will pay homage to MCC for generations to come.
-
The revolution is not everywhere yet—and that’s a challenge for global development
MCC's Alicia Phillips Mandaville cautions that while open data offers great potential, data from the world's poorest countries lags behind. The world needs more and better data and to use it responsibly, she writes.
-
A top-to-bottom transformation for Morocco’s artisanal fishers
The Small-Scale Fisheries Project in Morocco was designed to help beneficiaries fish sustainably and responsibly by incorporating the fishers in all stages of project design and implementation.
-
A call to serve
Assistant General Counsel John Mantini said the words of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King and Robert F. Kennedy inspired him to serve his country—first in the military, and then at MCC.
-
Little plant offers big potential in Namibia
A spiny little desert plant called devil’s claw is contributing to food security in Namibia, and MCC has worked with the Namibian government to maintain a balance between conservation of the protected species and income generation for beneficiaries.
-
A tough road to build a healthy nation
Dr. Ruhul Amin reflects on the efforts of MCC, USAID and the Government of Timor-Leste to increase immunization rates among Timorese children.
-
10
MCC CEO Daniel W. Yohannes reflects on the agency's decade of meeting the challenges in the fight against global poverty.
-
Seeking a fair way to allocate land in Mali
MCC and MCA-Mali turned to a lottery to distribute newly irrigated land to farmers in a fair, transparent fashion—offering a potential model for allocation and titling in Mali and throughout West Africa.
-
Excitement, relief, optimism in Malawi
MCC and MCA-Malawi staff are hard at work in the opening months of a five-year, $350.7 million compact that offers the hope of dramatically improving the country's power supply.
-
Lessons from a 4-year-old in Mongolia
MCC is helping herder families in Mongolia balance pastoral traditions, rapid urbanization and environmental conservation—and for one family in Ulaanbaatar, prospects are already looking brighter.
-
An innovative approach to development for Mongolia's future
The Mongolian government has recognized that the Millennium Challenge Account model is a good example of smart development programming and has adopted it for its own future projects.
-
Land titles and food security: exploring the link
An impact evaluation of MCC’s Access to Land Project in Benin hopes to explore the issue of whether owning a title to one's land leads to increased food security. Anecdotal evidence is already suggesting an increase.
-
Ensuring long-lasting impact for Ghanaian producers
MCC built a series of agribusiness centers across Ghana to promote sustainability of its food security investments and help attract private sector investment without providing giveaways that risk being underutilized.
-
Measuring what matters: Clinton helps launch new global women’s data project
The recently launched No Ceilings: The Full Participation Project aims to gather and analyze data on the progress of women globally. MCC's Andria Hayes-Birchler hopes it paves the way for more and better data across development decision-making.
-
Creating agricultural cooperatives in El Salvador
The dairy cooperative model is a risky and challenging approach, but one with great potential. MCC worked with co-ops in El Salvador as a way to contribute to rural economic development—but with mixed results.
-
Following the signs in Morocco
MCC posted signs throughout the medina of Marrakech to showcase the neighborhood’s rich history and put potential customers in front of artisans. Five separate routes take visitors past 4,400 shops throughout the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
-
Designing sustainable water projects is harder than you think
In several projects, MCC considered all the various needs and uses for water in a community and then incorporated those needs into project design. This helped prevent overuse, breakage and wear and tear.
-
A lot (of data) happens on the way to spending money
Selection is just the first step in an exacting process that MCC and partner countries undertake before taxpayer money is ever spent in the country. The process isn't easy, but it is a strength of the institution, MCC's chief economist writes.
-
Women breaking barriers: Women and girls should believe in themselves
MCA-Zambia CEO Pamela Bwalya shares her experiences of breaking barriers during her career, MCC's role in helping women, and her hopes for a future where men and women have the same opportunities.
-
Women breaking barriers: Tradition without discrimination
MCA-Namibia CEO Penny Akwenye believes Namibian society now offers better opportunities for women and discusses approaches MCC is supporting to offer better services to women living in rural areas.
-
Why I love March
Throughout March and beyond, MCC will present results of its groundbreaking work in creating better opportunities for women and girls worldwide, Senior Advisor Cassandra Butts writes.
-
Responsible (development) data rule No. 1: know thy data
A recent critique of MCC’s control of corruption selection indicator provides an opportunity to discuss the datasets upon which MCC relies and the responsible use of development data, Alicia Phillips Mandaville writes.
-
The importance of program logic
Developing a clear and well-defined program logic—the chain of events by which a given project is expected to lead to increased household income—is a crucial step in designing MCC projects, Cynthia Berning writes.
-
Spreading the message
MCC and MCA-Jordan hosted a community outreach event to discuss the upcoming improvements to the country’s water and wastewater treatment systems. About 100 teenage girls were encouraged to discuss the projects with their families.
-
Women in Leadership: Susan Banda, MCA-Malawi
"Speak up, participate and be part of the process!" These words of advice are offered to young Malawian women by MCA-Malawi CEO Susan Banda, who advises women to set goals for themselves and learn as much as they can about their chosen career paths.
-
Country ownership for an AIDS-free generation
MCC CEO Daniel W. Yohannes details today's launch of a three-year partnership between MCC and the State Department’s Office of the Global AIDS Coordinator to advance the sustainability of PEPFAR.
-
Water: the essence of life and economic prosperity
MCC kicks off World Water Day with a series of blogs on what MCC and it's partner countries are doing to improve delivery of clean water and sanitation services and secure these resources into the future.
-
In Jordan, harnessing the lifecycle of water
In Jordan, where water resources are scant, people in expanding urban areas are getting more clean water and better sanitation service, and irrigation in the Jordan Valley is more efficient. The MCC-funded program is paving the way for economic growth.
-
Questions about adopting a regional approach
A recent report exploring the potential benefits and costs of expanding MCC's compacts and Threshold Programs to a regional level is a welcome contribution to conversations about what’s next for MCC but raises some issues, Sheila Herrling writes.
-
Transforming water access in Lusaka
Clean water, sewer lines and solutions for clogged city drains are on the way for more than a million people living on the edge of Lusaka, Zambia's capital city, where deplorable conditions make economic growth difficult.
-
Water, sanitation and hygiene services for everyone in water-scarce Cabo Verde
Policy reform, well-managed utilities and improved infrastructure in Cabo Verde will enhance the quality of life -- and chances at economic prosperity -- for a half-million Cabo Verdeans.
-
Addressing Zambia's social and economic truths: a key to water and sanitation for the urban poor
Zambia's poor in the greater Lusaka area struggle with a lack of water and sanitation services. MCC's $354.7 million compact with Zambia will build water, sanitation and drainage infrastructure to help improve opportunities for economic growth.
-
The Nacala Dam: delivering more water to a rapidly expanding area of Mozambique
In Nacala and the surrounding area, access to reliable, clean water is hard, making economic growth even harder. The MCC-funded rehabilitation and expansion of the Nacala Dam is a project where the value of stakeholder input is evident.
-
In Malawi, one hand helps the other to improve land use and boost economic opportunities
By linking the land-use interests of Malawi's upstream farmers with downstream companies, the water that feeds into the Shire River hydroelectric plant is kept free of the weeds and sediment that clog operations and cause widespread power blackouts.
-
Lunchtime in the Sahel
Two women are turning an MCC-funded irrigation project in northern Senegal into an opportunity to feed local construction workers—just one of many opportunities for women to benefit from the sudden influx of capital and labor to the region.
-
Part and parcel: women's access to land in Burkina Faso
MCC is helping transform an area of northern Burkina Faso into a hub of rice production. For the region's women, it means not only a chance to grow crops year-round but also the first opportunity to work land they can proudly call their own.
-
A call for collective action on governance data
There is a big need for better data on governance, and MCC hopes to identify collective action solutions to improve the availability and quality of governance data, Alicia Phillips Mandaville writes.
-
Witnessing a historic launch
MCC CEO Daniel W. Yohannes joins former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and USAID Administrator Raj Shah for the launch of the U.S. Global Development Lab.
-
Government of Liberia and MCC invite private sector input on Liberia compact development
Since the private sector is a key driver for sustainable growth, MCC’s Finance, Investment and Trade team works with partner country colleagues to ensure that companies have input in compact development.
-
What has MCC learned from 10 years of country selectivity?
A decade of MCC's unique country selection system has proven that partner countries can be selected primarily using objective, quantifiable indicators of sound economic, social and democratic policies, MCC's Sheila Herrling writes.
-
Defying Stereotypes in Moldova
Women were marginalized during the Soviet era in Moldova but are now playing important roles in business and politics—as well as implementing the Moldova Compact and pulling the country out of poverty, the CEO of MCA-Moldova writes.
-
Farewell
With gratitude and hopefulness, MCC CEO Daniel W. Yohannes reflects on his tenure at MCC on his last day before departing to assume his duties at the U.S. Mission to the OECD.
-
A bottom-up approach to managing irrigation in Mali
The Alatona Irrigation Project in Mali adopted an approach different than the typical "top-down” management of irrigation systems and built a project on incentives and transparency with the goal of ensuring sustainability.
-
When no service is the best service: Natural beauty and economic growth thrive in Namibia.
The MCC-funded renovation and expansion of the Grootberg Lodge is changing the lives of residents of the ≠Khoadi-//Hôas Conservancy, and allowing lodge guests to get off the grid and into the wild... exactly where they want to be.
-
Lessons from measuring the results of MCC's food security investments
Lessons from five impact evaluations of farmer training activities are helping MCC improve the way it implements and evaluates projects across the world, Rebecca Goldsmith and Cynthia Berning write.
-
What we learned at the Governance Data Alliance design meeting
Participants in a meeting to brainstorm and debate about a possible Governance Data Alliance managed to identify a number of core items that need addressing in the coming months, Global Integrity's Nathaniel Heller and MCC's Alicia Phillips Mandaville write.
-
MCC paves the way after Typhoon Haiyan
When Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines, MCC-funded work was already underway on a major road project on Samar Island. The project's positive impact on the region is more apparent now than ever thanks to careful planning and risk management.
-
Philippines on the rise
When Typhoon Haiyan slammed into the Philippines last November, the devastation was unimaginable. In a statement of solidarity, MCA-Philippines issued a simple call to action: "Rise Philippines." This is the story of the days and weeks following the typhoon.
-
Reflections from Tacloban
In the wake of Typhoon Haiyan, devastation gives way to hope as MCC and its partners share in a multinational effort to bring lasting improvements for the people of the Philippines.
-
Banking on the future in Ghana
Technology brings better banking to the people in Ghana, where, as part of MCC's recently completed $547 million compact, bank branches in remote communities were digitized and headquarters-to-branch communications improved, paving the way for economic growth.
-
Celebrations in Mozambique: It's not just about the goods
Mozambicans took to the streets to celebrate the results of MCC's $507 million compact with Mozambique. The compact's four infrastructure projects represent the promise of economic growth brought about by a strong country partnership.
-
Delivering value for the American people
As Dana J. Hyde is sworn in as MCC's new CEO, she reflects on the agency's mission and looks forward to talking and working with all those who share MCC's values to make an effective, sustainable, impactful difference in the lives of the world's poor.
-
Re-imagining tomorrow, using images of today
The power of photography from a Peace Corps Response volunteer in the Philippines illustrates the damage from Typhoon Haiyan -- and, with the help of MCC, how communities are rebuilding.
-
Country ownership at work in Burkina Faso
The commitment of the Government of Burkina Faso to carrying out the work in its $480.9 million compact with MCC, has boosted its country's economic growth and sparked new opportunities for prosperity among its people.
-
Proof of progress: Burkina Faso’s women on the path to growth
Women in Burkina Faso are benefiting from MCC's investment in ways that can be measured through land titles to irrigated land, thriving crops, agricultural training and growing economic independence.
-
Dangerous roads can be made safer with new tools
In many of the world's poorest countries, the same roads that help move goods, people and services are also part of a growing number of traffic deaths. MCC aims to stem the danger using new tools to identify potential areas for road construction improvement.
-
Better poultry means a better life for a family in northern Burkina Faso
Healthier hens and more robust roosters are helping rural poultry producers get better prices at the market, an opportunity for economic growth created through MCC’s $480.9 million compact with Burkina Faso.
-
One herder’s plump cows signal improvement in Burkina Faso
Plump, healthy cows yield higher income for dairy farmers in Burkina Faso who are getting ahead with newfound livestock management techniques learned under their country’s compact with MCC.
-
Water resource management: a new form of life insurance
Everyone gets what they need and the path to economic prosperity is less difficult when scarce water resources are managed well. In MCC’s compact with Burkina Faso, a water sharing plan targets the needs of families, farmers and herders alike.
-
Resettlement means opportunity for all
Roads being built as part of MCC's $480.9 million compact with Burkina Faso create opportunities for economic growth; taking care of those affected by the construction is just as important.
-
Traffic safety signs people can relate to
People living along the MCC-funded road in six municipalities in northwestern Burkina Faso were challenged to come up with relevant road safety signs. The home-grown messages place a spotlight on the community's shared values.
-
What a difference a paved road makes
The MCC-funded roads project in Burkina Faso's western region opens new opportunities for thousands of people in remote villages to bring their goods to market. Here's the story of one beneficiary whose life is changing because of the new road.
-
Malawi’s semi-annual review: Shedding light on power sector reform
Malawi's main electrical utility is holding semi-annual public meetings to provide transparency into the broad power sector reforms the country has adopted under its MCC compact.
-
Fighting poverty and hunger through land rights and irrigation
By supporting its partner countries’ efforts to reduce hunger, MCC also supports MDG 1’s goal to halve by 2015 the proportion of the world’s people whose income is less than $1 a day and the proportion of people who suffer from hunger.
-
MCC’s First Open Data Challenge - Learning beyond the Independent Evaluations
Learn more about MCC's first Open Data Challenge and what the agency hopes to learn from contributors.
-
Poverty reduction begins with primary education for all
Without early access to quality education, youngsters in poor countries have little chance of becoming productive citizens. The challenge, especially for girls, is being met by MCC's partner countries as they strive to achieve the MDGs.
-
Open for business: Malawi’s evolving power sector
Leaders from Malawi’s key power sector institutions visited MCC to discuss efforts underway to reform their organizations and the sector to help increase access to reliable electricity for Malawians—and discuss the potential for private investment.
-
Sharing the best ideas on procurement
Procurement professionals from around the world met at MCC last month to discuss how the goods and services they buy deliver the biggest bang for the buck.
-
Driving prosperity into Namibia, one conservancy at a time
Namibians at national and local levels are looking to tourism as a key driver of economic growth—and MCC is helping the country harness this critical source of potential revenue.
-
The 2014 Aid Transparency Index: Is the donor community falling short on transparency?
MCC values transparency, and we spent the last year making careful improvements to our IATI data. While the efforts of others may fall short, we will continue to help drive the broader agenda for transparency.
-
About data, and why MCC is so good at it
For MCC, transparency is a high priority. By creating a more streamlined process for producing its data, the agency’s partner country governments can plan the best use of their resources, and their people can better hold their governments accountable.
-
Welcoming visitors and planning for college in northern Namibia
Residents of the Ehi-Rovipuka Conservancy in northern Namibia expect a new lodge will be draw tourists and become a source of jobs and income. For one resident, that means a brighter future for his children.
-
A ride to showcase MCC's results in Moldova
The Moldovan prime minister and the American ambassador led a ride of more than 100 cyclists who braved near-freezing temperatures to help showcase the Sarateni-Soroca road, which MCC helped upgrade.
-
At home in Namibia
New staff housing at Etosha National Park in Namibia is designed to attract and retain top talent, ultimately drawing more tourists to the park and more income to local communities. For one ranger, the change is already evident.
-
Telling Namibia’s story to a new audience
Reaching new audiences was a key component of the Namibia Compact's Tourism Project. One Virginia-based company marketed the natural beauties of Etosha National Park to audiences across North America.
-
Investing in Namibia’s future leaders
New schools across Namibia are not only creating an environment more conducive to learning and helping narrow a resource gap in rural areas, but also helping instill a sense of pride among students.
-
Marking a Milestone
As MCC marks its 10th anniversary, CEO Dana J. Hyde discusses the ways the agency has driven change and delivered impact over its first decade.
-
On World AIDS Day, MCC and PEPFAR drive change with economic and health data
MCC's partnership with PEPFAR to build country-driven local data hubs will help fight the HIV/AIDS epidemic with new data on health and other areas, such as economic development and gender. These hubs will also encourage ongoing collaboration among data users.
-
Congressional hearing highlights reality of walking the walk on open data for development
At the launch of any data commitment, spirits are high. The hard work of delivering on those commitments is where the lessons come in. In her blog, MCC Chief Strategy Officer Alicia Phillips Mandaville discusses the agency's pursuit of an open data agenda.
-
Learning to make nutrition a priority in Indonesia
A pair of recent conferences provided learning opportunities that will help the Indonesia Compact more effectively promote good nutrition and fight stunting. MCA-Indonesia's Dr. Minarto writes a blog.
-
The importance of nutrition to fight poverty
Investments in nutrition fit perfectly within MCC's model because nutrition is a key driver of economic growth, writes MCC's Michelle Inkley.
-
The look of growth: green blades of rice
The Ngalenka area of Senegal is being transformed from a brown, dry region to a green, thriving hub of rice production because of MCC's irrigation and water management project, writes Resident Country Director Randy Wood.
-
A bridge like no others in Senegal
The inauguration of the Ndioum Bridge in northern Senegal marked much more than just the opening of a new piece of infrastructure, writes MCC Deputy Resident Country Director Molly Glenn.
-
MCC: Answering President Obama's call to end extreme poverty
With every partnership MCC creates and every investment opportunity MCC helps create, we work to make the President's vision of ending extreme poverty a reality so we can put ourselves out of business. MCC is ready to answer the President's call.
-
Building bridges in every sense of the word
The new Kolda Bridge in the Casamance region of Senegal does more than just strengthen economic and political links between the country's north and south, it builds human bonds between Senegalese and Americans. MCC Deputy CEO Nancy Lee recounts her visit.
-
The fruits of our labor in Senegal
MCC's compact with Senegal not only boosts economic development opportunities for thousands of farmers and their families, but is an example of how a good partnership can profoundly transform individual lives as the country works to lift itself out of poverty.
-
An example worth sharing
On the 50th anniversary of the original Selma to Montgomery march in Alabama, MCC Senior Advisor Cassandra Q. Butts recalls the volatile events and enduring images of that time, and reflects on the importance of MCC's policy reform efforts in partner countries.
-
Empowering women by strengthening partnerships
MCC marks International Women's day this year by highlighting its commitment to promoting equality for women in its work with partner countries. That commitment is broadened through strategic partnerships that focus on shared values.
-
Building grassroots support for water conservation in Jordan
In Jordan's Zarqa Governorate, a grassroots water conservation campaign aims to make a long-lasting difference for households and businesses. The effort is part of MCC's $275 million compact with Jordan.
-
The joy of turning on a household water faucet in a Cabo Verde neighborhood
In a guest blog for MCC, U.S. Ambassador Donald L. Heflin describes what he felt when he saw a 70-year-old woman experience running water inside her home for the first time and the importance of investing in people.
-
Building upon a strong partnership with Morocco
The U.S.-Morocco Strategic Dialogue provided the opportunity to discuss the next phase of MCC's important partnership with the Government of Morocco, Deputy CEO Nancy Lee writes.
-
Investing in El Salvador’s future
MCC provides the cornerstone to the economic partnership between El Salvador and the United States by investing in projects to spark private sector-led growth and address the root causes of poverty, writes U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador Mari Carmen Aponte
-
Protecting the environment and reducing poverty in Indonesia
The $332.5 million Green Prosperity Project in Indonesia is designed to protect the environment while promoting improved management of natural resources. It is one of the most important environmental stewardship projects under the MCC compact with Indonesia.
-
Protecting the Environment While Fighting Poverty
MCC's mission is poverty reduction through promoting economic growth, but effective management of environmental and social concerns is central to achieving sustainable and equitable economic growth that leads to poverty reduction.
-
Climate change resilience in MCC’s irrigation investments
Two of MCC’s irrigation investments, the Agriculture Project in Burkina Faso and the Transition to High Value Agriculture Project in Moldova, show how MCC projects reduce vulnerability and improve resilience to the potential effects of climate change.
-
In Guatemala, better tax collection means better education and better jobs
MCC signed a $28 million Threshold Program with Guatemala that will strengthen a shared commitment to economic freedom, investment in people and good governance and attract private investment. Better education and new job skills will pave the way to prosperity.
-
Protecting the environment in Mongolia and Namibia through better rangeland management
Livestock activity contributes to forest clearing, soil erosion and desertification, which has been shown to promote harmful climate change. That’s why MCC has worked with Namibia and Mongolia decrease the pressure livestock puts on the environment.
-
Paving the way for a second compact in Mongolia
Upon her return from recent travels in Mongolia, MCC CEO Dana J. Hyde paints a vivid portrait of Mongolia’s progress, its people and the future challenges as the country begins the process of developing a second compact with MCC.
-
A strong partner for education results in Morocco
MCC places strong emphasis on the results and impact of our projects. In coming months, MCC will work with Morocco during the compact development process to consider a range of innovative “pay for results” tools to push the envelope in education and training.
-
How You Can Make a Difference: Lessons from the USGLC Summit
CEO Dana Hyde shares a wonderful account by David Beckmann, a Lutheran pastor and an economist who heads the organization Bread for the World, of the days leading up to MCC’s founding.
-
MCC takes part in pilot to test feasibility of expanding online FOIA records
MCC is one of seven agencies in the Obama Administration’s pilot to test the feasibility of expanding online publication of records released under the Freedom of Information Act. Agency participation is voluntary and MCC is proud to take part.
-
Fighting Poverty, One Policy Reform at a Time: How Good Governance Drives Growth
In the fight against poverty, encouraging smarter policies and better governance can be just as important for growth as dollar investments. And at MCC, promoting good governance is baked into everything we do, from country selection to project implementation.
-
Conserving Jordan’s Critical Water Supply
In Jordan, the observation of Ramadan was an opportunity to reinforce the importance of water conservation and to teach women who manage their families’ household water that conservation is not just good for the family, it’s good for the country.
-
The Evolution of Development Finance: Making Aid Dollars Count
A truly effective development agenda that is serious about hitting our Sustainable Development Goals will have to reach beyond ODA and leverage both public and private sector investment in the developing world.
-
International Youth Day 2015: A Closer Look at the Youth Bulge
Developing countries face an unprecedented “youth bulge” that can pose serious social and political challenges or create great opportunity. MCC addresses youth bulge challenges by laying the foundation for growth that creates opportunity for young people.
-
A recipe for a better future in Senegal
MCC worked with a group of 125 women who were refugees from Mauritania and have been living in Senegal for more than a decade but were often unable to find work to start a cooperative that creates and sells packets of sweet dairy product.
-
Linking markets, creating opportunities in northern Senegal
MCC rebuilt the RN2 highway in northern Senegal, linking businesses and farmers with to major national and international markets. For some Senegalese, the new highway is already making an impact.
-
The future of Moldovan agriculture lies beyond its borders
MCC's $125.4 million project funded the rehabilitation of 10 pumping stations along the country's two main rivers, the Prut and the Nistru, to improve the quantity and quality of irrigation water for more than 37,000 acres.
-
Access to Power Is Empowering
More than a hundred practitioners and thought leaders gathered at MCC headquarters in Washington, DC for the “Energy for Development Conference: Promoting a Gender-Inclusive and Pro-Poor Sector.”
-
Democratic Rights Are Crucial To Sustainable Development
Aid is generally most effective in countries with a sound commitment to accountable and democratic governance. That’s why MCC places a strong focus on democracy when selecting partner countries, which creates incentives for democratic reform.
-
MCC Evidence: Want to help the poor? Focus on economic growth
A country's support for sound economic and social policies and democratic governance ensures inclusive growth that reaches the poorest segments of society. MCC research shows that growth in MCC partner countries includes the poor.
-
Matchmaking to Promote Private Investment in Moldova
MCC and MCA-Moldova organized a high-value agriculture investment and trade roundtable this summer to connect Moldovan farmers with businesses from abroad. Participants included U.S. Ambassador James D. Pettit and John Deere representative Dirk Stratmann.
-
70 years in the making, a bridge transforms this Senegal community
The Millennium Challenge Corporation, as part of its five-year, $540 million compact with Senegal, financed the construction of the Ndioum Bridge. As one local teacher put it: "It’s not debatable. This will be a better future for our children."
-
A Global Call for 'Inclusive' Growth
The next 15 years will require a concerted effort to promote inclusive economic growth that ensures growth continues to improve the lives of the poor. That is a driving focus of the Sustainable Development Goals.
-
Unearthing Moldova's Rich History
Crews working on an MCC-funded road project unearth ancient artifacts, including homes, pottery and tools.
-
A New Approach to Water Management in Moldova
MCC's five-year, $262 million compact with Moldova helped organize water users associations that manage modern irrigation systems, supporting the production of high-value agricultural products.
-
In Zambia, Clean Water and Good Health Go Together
More than 1 million Zambians are expected to benefit from MCC's $355 million compact, which is designed to help improve city drainage, water and sanitation and the Zambian Government's ongoing efforts at water sector reform.
-
Why Do You Work to End Poverty?
MCC has invested $10 billion toward lifting people out of poverty, but there is more to do. Join MCC by lending your voice—and your face—to our #EndPoverty social media campaign to mark International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
-
Keeping Governments Accountable Through Strong Communities
MCC champions community-led development, where program ownership and accountability are concentrated at the local level. Read the story of Elsie Lomong-oy, who says that when ordinary citizens make decisions for their communities, accountability is built in.
-
MCC Receives Award for Best Investment Climate Initiative
MCC’s model inspires policy reform to remove barriers to private investment, and we continue to develop new approaches for attracting private investment in Africa and our partner countries around the world.
-
Inspiring Innovation to Deliver Clean Water and Sanitation in Zambia
The Innovation Grants Program in Zambia is engaging partners to develop and implement innovative approaches that will improve access to drinking water, sanitation and hygiene, and solid waste management services in Lusaka.
-
Students Help Maximize the Use of MCC Data
MCC’s first Open Data Challenge brought together independent evaluators, colleagues from across government, open data advocates, and the public. Building on the success of the first Challenge, MCC announced the launch of round two.
-
Achieving Total Sanitation in Indonesia
Clean water and adequate sanitation are essential elements to ensure adequate growth and nutrition – what would it take to achieve total sanitation in Indonesia?
-
MCC & Data2X: 7 Lessons from Releasing Our Gender Data
Data is essential for making evidence-based policy and investment decisions, and smarter investments in women and girls could be made around the world with better data sharing. MCC does its part by making its gender data public in partnership with Data2X.
-
NGO Consultations at MCC: Pull Up a Chair
Since its creation in 2004, MCC has reserved a seat at the table for members of civil society during compact development and implementation. Now, MCC is formalizing this process and actively seeking opportunities for our NGO partners to participate.
-
Planting Trees in Malawi for a Sustainable Future
MCC marks Earth Day with a story of how an MCC investment in Malawi helped people living in the Shire River watershed abandon charcoal production to plant and sell tree seedlings. This helps mitigate soil erosion and the sedimentation of the river.
-
A Commitment to Data-Driven Investments
A data-driven approach can reduce waste and expand MCC’s ability to help lift people out of poverty. But to harness data, MCC must be gathering the right data and using the best tools to analyze it
-
Unlocking Private Finance in Frontier Markets
The development landscape has changed fundamentally. Private actors and private finance increasingly drive development, and annual private financial flows to developing countries now amount to more than five times official aid flows.
-
My Homecoming With Peace Corps Response Philippines
Peace Corps Volunteer John Pabustan reflects on his year-long assignment in the Philippines, where he saw first hand the power of MCC-funded community-led development in a region devastated by Typhoon Haiyan.
-
Empowering Development in the Philippines from the Ground Up
A Peace Corps Response volunteer recalls the value of Kalahi-CIDSS, the community-driven development program under MCC's $434 million Philippines Compact. The program, he writes, has empowered Filipinos to be part of positive changes in their communities.
-
Protecting the Environment to Drive Economic Growth: An Inside Look at MCC’s Natural Resource Protection Indicator
June 5 is World Environment Day, and in MCC’s partner countries, environmental preservation is critical to economic growth and poverty reduction. That’s why the Natural Resource Protection indicator is part of MCC’s scorecard.
-
Q&A with MCC Acting Vice President Kyeh Kim: MCC & Let Girls Learn in Morocco
MCC announced a nearly $100 million investment toward a new model of secondary education in Morocco, included as part of MCC's Morocco Employability and Land Compact. Read a Q&A with MCC Acting VP Kyeh Kim.
-
Tips for Graduates: A Career in International Development (Part 1)
We asked staff to reflect on their first jobs, give an inside look at daily life at MCC, and share their best career advice with the Class of 2016.
-
Tips for Graduates: A Career in International Development (Part 2)
We asked staff to reflect on their first jobs, give an inside look at daily life at MCC, and share their best career advice with the Class of 2016.
-
Talking Education with Secretary Kerry in Georgia
On his trip to Georgia in July 2016, Secretary of State John Kerry met with Kesi Katsitadze, a San Diego State University-Georgia biochemistry major and one of the beneficiaries of MCC’s $140 million Georgia Compact.
-
Announcing MCC's Experts Gallery
MCC is home to immensely talented policy and technical experts across a variety of fields. We invite you to browse through our gallery, and we look forward to the engagement and collaboration this new tool will bring.
-
Building Niger’s Statistical Capacity to Bolster the Agricultural Sector
As part of the $437 million Niger Compact, MCC will invest in building the country’s statistical capacity, which will help the Government of Niger better use agricultural data to achieve and measure progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
-
Advancing Girls’ Education in Niger
MCC’s investment in school infrastructure as part of the Niger Threshold Program helped improve academic outcomes, especially among girls, according to an impact evaluation by Mathematica Policy Research.
-
Working with MCC’s Open Data: Road Rehabilitation in Nicaragua
Javier Parada, a doctoral student in agricultural and resource economics at UC Davis, was the winner of MCC’s first Open Data Challenge. Javier explains how access to MCC’s data helped to advance his research on road rehabilitation in Nicaragua.
-
A Strengthened U.S. Commitment to Global Food Security
October 16 is World Food Day, and 2016 has been a landmark year for MCC and the U.S. Government’s work on global food security.
-
The Headline No One Is Writing: Extreme Poverty Reaches New Low
New World Bank data confirm that MCC is partnering with some of the poorest countries in the world and that these countries are making significant progress in reducing poverty.
-
Investing in Malawi’s Power Sector
MCC’s investments and recent reforms by the Malawi Government are paving the way for businesses to invest in the country’s power sector.
-
MCC Powering Africa: Empowering People and Energizing Communities
MCC CEO Dana J. Hyde was in West Africa to visit four partner countries where MCC is making major investments in energy infrastructure to reduce energy poverty: Benin, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Ghana.
-
Veterans Reflect on Service and Life at MCC
On November 11, Veterans Day, we honor those who have served and sacrificed for our country. Members of the MCC team share their stories of military service and life at MCC, and reflect on how core military values and skills have influenced their work.
-
A Conversation with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
During a recent visit to MCC, development economist Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala joined MCC CEO Dana J. Hyde to discuss challenges facing Africa, ensuring inclusive economic growth, and advice for young women when choosing a workplace.
-
Data Collaboratives for Local Impact: A Model for Building Country-Level Capacity to Use Data
Today is World AIDS Day. MCC and the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief are working to empower and enable our country partners to use data to enhance their program results and move us closer to an AIDS-free generation.
-
Developing Morocco’s Industrial Zones to Spur Investment
As part of the MCC-Morocco Compact, a $127 million industrial land investment will use public-private partnerships to develop, manage and maintain industrial zones that meet the needs of businesses and attract private investment.
-
Notes from the Field: Promoting Child Health in Indonesia
More than 8 million children in Indonesia suffer from stunted growth. MCC is investing $134.2 million to reduce stunting in 11 of Indonesia's 34 provinces with integrated sanitation, maternal and child health, and nutrition interventions.
-
Gender Data Solutions Go Local: Six Innovative Projects from Côte d’Ivoire
The TechMousso competition — launched by MCC, Data2X, the World Wide Web Foundation and local partners in Côte d’Ivoire — is a promising example of how empowering communities to use gender data can improve the welfare of and expand opportunities for women.
-
Seven Lessons Learned from Launching Our First Gender Data Competition
Last year, MCC and partners launched TechMousso, a first-of-its-kind open gender data competition held in Côte d’Ivoire. Here are some valuable takeaways from our experience to inform future data competitions.
-
Exit Interview with Dana J. Hyde
During the closing days of the Obama Administration, ONE’s Ian Koski spoke with MCC’s now-former Chief Executive Officer Dana J. Hyde about her time at the agency and why working to reduce global poverty supports U.S. national interests.
-
Women Plumbers Aid Jordan’s Water Conservation Effort
Ra’eda and her colleagues, trained as plumbers as part of the MCC-Jordan Compact, are challenging attitudes about women’s professions in Jordan and aiding the country’s water conservation efforts, which are creating new opportunities for economic growth.
-
Mobilizing Private-Sector Investment to Transform Jordan’s Water System
MCC’s investment helped the Jordanian Government finance the expansion of the nation’s largest wastewater treatment plant, catalyzing private-sector investment and supporting the government’s ability to provide a much-needed service to its growing population.
-
Q&A with MCC Acting CEO Jonathan Nash
In January 2017, Jonathan Nash was appointed Acting Chief Executive Officer of MCC. In this interview, Nash talks about his more than 20 years of experience in international development, including more than 10 years at MCC.
-
Powering Business Growth in Benin
Madame Awahou Codjo is a small business owner in Cotonou who benefitted from MCC’s 2006 investments in Benin. Now, she stands to benefit from MCC’s $375 million Benin Power Compact.
-
Empowering Cabo Verde to Better Deliver Water and Sanitation to Its People
As part of the MCC-Cabo Verde Compact signed in 2012, MCC is supporting the Government of Cabo Verde in bringing a wastewater plant on the island of Sal online and strengthening the water and sanitation sector to better serve its people.
-
Q&A with MCC Resident Country Director for Niger Kristin Penn: Bolstering Niger’s Agricultural Sector
In July 2016, MCC signed a $437 million compact with the Government of Niger to improve access to water for agriculture and livestock and expand access to markets. Read a Q&A with MCC Resident Country Director for Niger Kristin Penn.
-
Expanding Access to Water and Sanitation for Women and the Poor in Cabo Verde Is Critical to Economic Growth
MCC’s investments supported the Government of Cabo Verde as it undertook institutional reforms that are expanding access to and affordability of water and sanitation services to help people lift themselves out of poverty.
-
Mapping for Sustainable Development: MCC Hosts Its First-Ever Mapathon
Geospatial data helps generate accurate maps and is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. That’s why MCC recently held its first-ever mapathon at our Washington, D.C., headquarters.
-
Piloting a New Model to Advance Education and Boost Youth Employment in Morocco
As part of the MCC-Morocco Employability and Land Compact, an innovative, scalable new model for secondary education is being introduced in approximately 100 schools throughout Morocco to create a more highly skilled workforce to accelerate economic growth.
-
Investing in Kosovo’s Promise
In a Devex op-ed, MCC’s Kosovo Country Team Lead Sarah Olmstead discusses the agency’s investments to lower energy costs and support the Government of Kosovo in its efforts to improve data transparency to spur growth, fight poverty, and advance stability.
-
Malawi’s Power Sector Reforms Spur Private-Sector Participation and Utility Turnaround
Bringing power to some of the 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa without electricity takes not only power lines, but also strong policies and institutions. That’s why MCC is working with the Government of Malawi on a new approach for its power sector.
-
Q&A with MCC’s Jennifer Windsor and Agnieszka Rawa: Celebrating International Day of the Girl Child
In celebration of International Day of the Girl Child, MCC’s Katherine Vaughn spoke with Jennifer Windsor, MCC practice lead and senior director for gender and social inclusion, and Agnieszka Rawa, MCC managing director for Data Collaboratives for Local Impact.
-
Q&A with InterAction CEO Sam Worthington
InterAction CEO Sam Worthington discusses the successes of U.S. foreign assistance, why partnering with civil society is critical to aid effectiveness, and what he considers the most pressing challenge facing the global community today.
-
Veterans Day 2017: How Military Values and Skills Shape Veterans’ Work at MCC
On November 11, Veterans Day, we honor all those who have served our country in uniform. From areas like procurement to security, veterans bring tremendous drive and expertise to MCC, helping to advance our mission to reduce poverty through economic growth.
-
Letter from Cabo Verde: Empowering People to Reduce Poverty, Drive Growth
MCC Vice President for Compact Operations Robert Blau reports from Cabo Verde on the closeout of MCC’s compact and its impact on the island nation’s people.
-
Why Blended Finance Is the “Future of Development”
MCC is at the forefront of blended finance — the practice of mobilizing private capital for public good. As MCC COO Jonathan Nash said, “By aligning business strategies with development priorities, we can strengthen outcomes to transform lives.”
-
Dispatch from Kosovo
MCC COO Jonathan Nash and Congressman Eliot Engel of New York were in Pristina for the launch of the Millennium Foundation Kosovo, a Kosovo-led entity that will implement MCC’s new $49 million Kosovo Threshold Program.
-
Land Rights Open Economic Opportunities in Cabo Verde
As part of the MCC-Cabo Verde Compact, the agency supported the Government of Cabo Verde in transforming the land management sector to establish a single, reliable source of land rights to facilitate private investment across the islands.
-
A Nigérien Entrepreneur Finds Her Niche in Camel Milk
Entrepreneur Wouro Habsatou Aboubacar, who runs a camel ranch outside of Niamey, Niger, is a potential beneficiary of MCC’s $437 million compact to strengthen Niger’s vital agricultural sector.
-
New Opportunities in Benin: A Call for Proposals
MCC’s compact with the Government of Benin reached a milestone this week with the launch of the first call for projects for the Off-Grid Clean Energy Facility.
-
Engaging the Private Sector for Development Results in Indonesia
MCC Advisory Council Member Nilmini Rubin writes about the wide-ranging engagement with the private sector in the cocoa production and other industries as part of MCC’s Indonesia Compact.
-
Women Sea Salt Producers in Indonesia Cooperate to Seize New Economic Opportunities
MCC’s investments are empowering women sea salt producers in Indonesia with improvements in technology, production and marketing to invest in their families’ financial future.
-
Driving Home the Point: Lessons from MCC’s Roads Projects
MCC uses independent evaluations of its investments to achieve development results. MCC’s Investments in Roads, the latest in our Principles into Practice series, analyzes the agency’s road investments in 16 compacts. Here, we highlight two of those lessons.
-
Mapping Freetown’s Water Pipes to Improve Service Delivery
MCC’s investments are helping the Government of Sierra Leone to map Freetown’s water system, a critical first step in efforts to improve service delivery to the capital’s residents.
-
Shaping the Next Generation of Georgian and U.S. STEM Leaders
Through an innovative partnership with San Diego State University, MCC’s Georgia Compact is shaping the next generation of Georgian and U.S. science, technology, engineering and math leaders. Here, we meet three of these students.
-
Charting a Course for Robust Private Sector Engagement
MCC’s Advisory Council held its fourth meeting at MCC headquarters. The gathering brought together Council members with deep subject area expertise representing a variety of U.S. industries to discuss MCC engagement with the business community.
-
Sumba Island: A Snapshot of Green Prosperity
The Indonesia Compact’s Green Prosperity Project worked to address critical constraints to economic development while supporting the Government of Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable growth.
-
Modernizing Procurement to Boost Transparency, Efficiency and Savings in Indonesia
As part of the recently completed MCC-Indonesia Compact, MCC funded a project to modernize the public procurement system to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of how funds are spent for public goods and services.
-
MCC Again Ranked as Most Transparent Agency in U.S. Government
In the 2018 Publish What You Fund Aid Transparency Index, MCC was once again ranked as the most transparent agency in the U.S. Government.
-
Grassroots Groups and NGOs Tackle Rural Healthcare Challenges in Honduras
Honduras has historically been plagued by stubbornly high rates of maternal and infant mortality, but grassroots groups and NGOs are working to change that.
-
Leadership Conference Provides MCC Colleagues an Opportunity to Learn from Each Other
MCC recently hosted its biennial Compact Operations Leadership Conference, which brought together leaders of MCC compacts and threshold programs from around the world.
-
Empowering Women in Honduras to Take Control of Their Healthcare
Audits of the Honduran healthcare system are empowering women to take control of their healthcare needs and provide better service for their communities.
-
Success of Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant Helps Liberia Shine Brighter
Rehabilitation of the Mt. Coffee hydropower plant has doubled Liberia's power generation capacity.
-
MCC and PEPFAR—Creating Data Ambassadors to End HIV/AIDS and Foster Economic Empowerment
MCC and PEPFAR are working together to end HIV/AIDS by harnessing the power of data.
-
What happens when you cross a robot, MCC and a Ferris wheel?
MCC participated in the Open Government Partnership Global Summit in Tbilisi, Georgia.
-
Lottery in Marrakesh Chooses Schools to Participate in Pilot Programs
MCC is supporting an innovative program to address issues associated with the employability of youth in the country.
-
Supporting Evidence Use by Policymakers in El Salvador - Part 2
MCC generates a lot of evidence on "what works." This is how it's being used in El Salvador.
-
Supporting Evidence Use by Policymakers in El Salvador - Part 1
MCC generates a lot of evidence on "what works." This is how it's being used in El Salvador.
-
MCC Partnerships Spur Progress in Georgia
In our Georgia compact, MCC is leveraging partnerships in the public and private sectors to increase the impact our programs can have to spur economic growth and reduce poverty.
-
Through Education and Economic Opportunity in Agriculture, Women in Niger Can Advance
MCC's compact with Niger emphasizes women’s and youth employment training to equip them with the skills they need.
-
MCC Incentives Spark Progress in Ghana’s Effort to Revamp Power Sector
The Ghanaian government recently reached a compact milestone with successful reforms to their power sector.
-
A Commitment to Improvement in the Agriculture Sector Will Bear Fruit in Niger
MCC’s $437 million compact with Niger is designed to promote the sustainable use of natural resources for agricultural production while improving market access.
-
A New School Year and New Opportunities in the Republic of Georgia
At the Convocation Ceremony of the 2018-2019 school year, MCC and San Diego State University in Georgia welcomed 230 new students pursuing STEM degrees in Tbilisi.
-
New Data, Same Story: Examining the Prospects for Ending Poverty
MCC is well-positioned to help address regional trends in the struggle to end poverty.
-
Women Are Powering Change in Malawi
Women have played a key role in implementing MCC projects to transform the power sector in Malawi.
-
MCC Compact Energizes Malawi
MCC’s five-year $350 million compact with the Government of Malawi worked to transform the nation's power sector.
-
Profiles in Service: MCC Celebrates Veteran’s Day 2018
U.S. veterans on MCC's staff share why they joined the military, and how they apply their military experiences to their work at MCC.
-
Technical Vocational Education and Training Jump-Starts Georgia
MCC is funding Technical Education and Training centers in the country of Georgia to reduce poverty by boosting economic growth and incomes.
-
MCC Ranks #1 on ‘Investing in What Works’ Index for Third Year Running
MCC again earned the topped spot in Results for America’s Invest in What Works Federal Standard of Excellence Index
-
Nino Zambakhidze: From MCC Beneficiary to Agribusiness Entrepreneur
With the help of an MCC grant, Nino Zambakhidze started a successful dairy farm and is now helping other women just like her.
-
Planning in the face of uncertainty: MCC hosts the launch of a new tool for decision-making
Development practitioners face big challenges in their efforts to reduce poverty, but MCC is helping develop new strategies to meet those challenges.
-
Women’s History Month: Scholarship Program Empowers Women in the Energy Sector in Kosovo
As female participation in Kosovo’s workforce lags, a new scholarship program creates an opportunity for change by empowering young Kosovar women in STEM.
-
Graduate Students Use MCC's Data to Further Development Research
Graduate students use independent evaluations of MCC projects to conduct research into international development.
-
MCC Launches New ‘Evaluation Briefs’
MCC has developed Evaluation Briefs to be technically sound, user-friendly summaries of MCC’s independent evaluation results and learning.
-
Outreach to Private Sector Helps MCC Analyze Economic Constraints
Engagement with the private sector is a key part of MCC's process to determine what is holding back economic growth in partner countries.
-
MCC Compact to Provide Boost for Rural Farmers
A partnership between MCC and the Government of Morocco is focusing on improving rural incomes in Morocco by providing farmers and their families with secure rights to the land they have been farming for generations.
-
Delivering Data Where it Counts to Improve Lives and Catalyze Economic Growth
MCC and the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) partnered to empower individuals, communities, and governments in Sub-Saharan Africa to use data to help end HIV/AIDS and improve lives.
-
Women in Energy Scholarship Program Kicks off with 28 Kosovar Students Joining Des Moines Area Community College
The program aims to increase women’s economic opportunities in Kosovo’s energy sector.
-
New Studies Commissioned by MCC Will Help Boost Public-Private Partnerships
MCC has commissioned studies by the Economist Intelligence Unit to assess the enabling environment for PPPs in 20 of our country partner countries.
-
MCC Invests in Women in Niger
MCC’s compactin Niger pays special attention to the ways in which women can benefit from projects to boost the agricultural sector.
-
MCC’s Agriculture and Irrigation Day of Learning: Improving Measurement of Agriculture Investments
MCC is incorporating things like satellite imagery and remote sensing to expand our results-measuring toolkit.
-
Integrated Program Management in Action: Kosovo Threshold Program
We’re training our partners around the world on MCC’s new Integrated Project Management guidelines. Our recent Kosovo workshop was a big success.
-
Girls and Women Make Educational Gains through MCC’s El Salvador Investment Compact
The compact’s Human Capital Project has worked to remove educational barriers to gender equality through a holistic approach.
-
MCC Shares the Importance of Grid Reliability
Why do we need grid reliability, and how can policymakers improve it?
-
MCC Makes A Splash on World Water Day Sharing New Insights and Lessons From Water-Related Programs
On the global day to recognize the importance of water, MCC highlights learning and results from work in the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) sector.
-
MCC’s Investments in Education Boost Gender Equality
Countries cannot thrive if women are not empowered to achieve the futures they want for themselves, and few things can empower women like education.
-
Empowering women through energy sector reforms
MCC is working with partner countries to increase women’s economic empowerment through greater participation in the energy sector.
-
MCC’s Lessons Learned: How to Strengthen TVET Programs for the Poor
MCC analyzes its investments in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs to identify what worked well and what didn’t. Lessons learned will be applied to TVET programs going forward.
-
Strengthening land rights and climate resilience in Morocco
MCC is working to strengthen land rights for farming families in Morocco, while also promoting climate-resilient agriculture in order to ensure long-term, sustainable poverty reduction.
-
MCC Program Procurement Emphasizes Best Value
MCC has taken the innovative step of adopting quality and performance based selection (QPBS) in awarding program contracts for goods and works. This approach provides the best value for U.S. taxpayers and MCC partner countries.
-
TREDD carefully: How MCC balances open data with responsible data to maximize accountability and learning
MCC is a leader in the development space when it comes to responsibly sharing data. Achieving this requires managing a complex range of considerations.
-
Working Towards Gender Inclusiveness in Ghana’s Energy Sector
MCC’s Ghana Compact is building opportunities for women in the country’s power sector through mentorship, training, and policy change.
-
MCC Procurement Quickly Responds to COVID-19
New COVID-19 related guidance on procurement is helping our country partners continue operations and efficiently purchase essential goods, services, and equipment while staying safe.
-
MCC Catalyzes Land Tenure Transformation in Liberia
How MCC’s Liberia Threshold Program helped create a progressive new land policy in the country.
-
MCC’s Georgia Compact II: Driving Compact Sustainability One Year After Closeout
One year following the successful completion of MCC’s Georgia Compact II, the partnership between MCC and the Government of Georgia continues to build momentum.
-
Empowering Students to Help Improve Their Schools
In a recent blog writing contest organized by MCC and Millennium Challenge Account Morocco, students share their experiences benefiting from the compact’s Secondary Education Activity.
-
Climate Resilient Agriculture Grants in Niger Empower Women-Managed Enterprises
As part of the compact between MCC and the Government of Niger, $2.3 million in grants were awarded to producer/processor groups and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, including women and youth groups.
-
“The future for women and girls in my country seems very bright!”
MCC’s investments in Malawi have enabled women such as Grace Ghambi to pursue careers in the energy sector. Grace believes that MCC’s work in her country will help empower women to bring Malawi out of poverty.
-
MCC Boosts Education and Training for El Salvador’s Next Generation
The compact invests in the country's people through new and rehabilitated schools as well as improvements to the education system and skills development courses.
-
“I hope for an electricity sector with sustainable growth”
Ismène Ahamide Zounmenou is growing her business through MCC’s Benin Power Compact.
-
Better Customer Service is Leading to More Productive Use of Electricity in Liberia
MCC’s Liberia compact has involved improvements to customer service within the Libera Electricity Corporation. This will have far-reaching impacts on the country’s overall access to and productive use of electricity.
-
MCC and World Bank Seek to Unlock Public-Private Partnership Opportunities in Land Administration
The World Bank welcomes MCC contributions to a new Land PPP report, which should prove valuable in identifying PPP opportunities in land administration.
-
Women Are Driving Change in Kosovo’s Energy Sector
By participating in scholarships, internships, and other training opportunities, women in Kosovo are ready to make an impact in their country’s power sector.
-
MCC – Niger Compact Launches Rehabilitation of Critical Roadway
The MCA-Niger Compact reaches milestone as construction to rehabilitate a key section of the RN7 is launched.
-
The Liberia Compact’s Energy Project is Also Improving Water Supply
As part of MCC’s compact, the construction of the five-kilometer water pipeline is creating a range of positive impacts.
-
MCC Once Again Ranks #1 on Results for America’s Annual Evidence Index
The report ranks nine federal agencies on their use of evidence and data to get better results.
-
Professional Equality Trophy Helps Moroccan Companies Recognize the Value of Women’s Labor Force Participation
An MCC-supported program is rewarding private sector companies' efforts to achieve gender equality in workplaces across Morocco.
-
Q&A with MCC Acting CEO Mahmoud Bah
MCC’s Acting CEO Mahmoud Bah discussed his goals as interim agency lead and how an emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion at MCC impacts the agency’s work at home and around the world.
-
Infrastructure Investments Must Address Human Behavior to Succeed
MCC's compacts often focus on infrastructure, but results also hinge on successfully addressing human behavior.
-
Investing in Local Data Use Pays Off as Women #ChoosetoChallenge in Tanzania
From improving sexual and reproductive health to promoting HIV awareness and resilience, MCC and the Data Collaborative for Local Impact (DCLI) program are using data as the path to create sustainable gender equality for generations of women.
-
Women’s History Month 2021: Why MCC Has Always Prioritized Women’s Economic Empowerment
MCC invests in women through policy reform, training, and other targeted actions.
-
World Water Day 2021: The Ripple Effect of Investing in Water
Water and poverty reduction are more closely linked than you might think. From health and education to gender inequality and agriculture, on World Water Day 2021, learn how MCC investments in water reduce poverty and spur economic growth around the word.
-
Investing in Energy Efficiency Sparks Change for Kosovo’s Women Entrepreneurs
Grants and trainings are helping women business owners in Kosovo to learn about and invest in energy efficiency.
-
MCC: What the Future Holds
MCC Deputy CEO Alexia Latortue provides her take on priorities and challenges for the agency in the years to come.
-
Economists Put MCC Under the Microscope: Five Key Take-Aways
At the recent meeting of MCC’s Economic Advisory Council, participants put forth compelling suggestions for the agency’ strategic direction.
-
The Year of Climate Resolve
Deputy CEO Alexia Latortue takes a look at how MCC and the international development community can meet the challenge of climate change.
-
Social Inclusion in MCC’s Mongolia Compact: Affordable Water for all in Ulaanbaatar
MCC’s compact with Mongolia is working to maintain a sustainable, affordable water supply for all of Ulaanbaatar’s residents and industries.
-
MCC Celebrates Africa Day 2021
On Africa Day 2021, the Acting CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation, Mahmoud Bah, takes a look at some of the challenges and opportunities on the continent in the coming years.
-
Awash with Lessons: What We’ve Learned after 15 Years of WASH Investments
Independent evaluations from MCC’s work in the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector reveal valuable insights and ideas for making our work more effective.
-
Energy Conference Builds Women’s Resilience in Ghana
The two-day conference allows women professionals in the energy sector to network and exchange knowledge while harnessing their experiences, good practices, and lessons learned.
-
Côte d’Ivoire’s New Education Action Plan Signals a Boost for Women and Girls
The new Gender in Education Policy and Action Plan identifies specific challenges to girls’ participation in school and presents a range of solutions.
-
“We want power to be available all the time to everyone.”
In the first of a series of interviews with participants of the Ghana Women in Energy conference, Dr. Enyonam Kpekpena discusses her career and her aspirations for women in Ghana’s power sector.
-
“I hope that the number of women in leadership and management positions increases significantly.”
As part of a series of interviews with participants of the Ghana Women in Energy conference, Mrs. Anning-Gyebi discusses her career and the challenges facing women in Ghana’s power sector.
-
“There is an assumption that you cannot do the things that the field requires, such as climbing a pole, because you are a woman.”
As part of a series of interviews with participants of the Ghana Women in Energy conference, Miss Sitsofe Sah discusses her career and the challenges facing women in Ghana’s power sector.
-
“It is very common for girls to get the training, but then not be able to find work in the field.”
As part of a series of interviews with participants of the Ghana Women in Energy conference, Miss Miriam Amponsah talks about how things could improve for women and girls pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
-
Energy Regulator’s Decision to Publish Open Data is a Turning Point for Kosovo’s Transparency and Accountability
Kosovo’s Dig Data Competition aims for innovative use of data and analysis and more creative, cooperative problem solving. Government institutions such as the energy regulator are amongst those on board.
-
Sierra Leone Government Adopts MCC-Supported National Resettlement Policy, the First of Its Kind in Africa
The new resettlement policy will be a powerful and useful tool that will restore the dignity of affected persons and will lead to better management and regulation of resettlement activities.
-
Grant Making for Results: MCC’s New Program Grant Guidelines
Traditional grant making has often favored compliance over results, MCC’s new Program Grant Guidelines, based on best practices from the federal government and international grant makers, is designed to ensure high-quality, results-based grant programs.
-
Strengthening Financial Inclusion on MCC’s Scorecard
MCC is revising two scorecard indicators to incorporate newly published datasets on financial inclusion and property rights, expanding to measure the ability of an entire population to own property or access credit, not just the business climate for the elites.
-
MCC and Guatemala Partner to Boost Secondary Education
Teacher training programs funded by MCC's Guatemala Threshold Program worked to improve the country's education system.
-
MCC – Guatemala Threshold Program Works to Strengthen Country’s Tax Authority
MCC and the Government of Guatemala partnered to strengthen the country's tax authority to ensure the government has the revenue it needs.
-
Digital Transformation: From Local Improvements to National Health System Efficiency and Resilience
MCC-led work at local health centers funded by the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief are being nationally scaled in Tanzania.
-
MCC Boosts Energy Efficiency in Ghana
The MCC – Ghana Power Compact is investing more than $25 million to strategically advance energy efficiency programs.
-
MCC Launches New Sector Results and Learning Pages
On MCC's new Sector Results and Learning pages, international development professionals can now quickly and easily find evidence to inform the design of projects.
-
Vocational Training Centers in Morocco to Provide Workers with In-Demand Skills
As part of the MCC - Morocco Employability and Land Compact, TVET centers are now under construction at 15 different locations.
-
Investments in Energy Efficiency Pay Off for Women-Owned Businesses in Kosovo
Energy efficiency efforts under the MCC - Kosovo Threshold Program deliver benefits to women-owned businesses.
-
On International Women’s Day 2022, Let’s #BreakTheBias Through Data & Digital Skills
In March, MCC will launch the Women’s Data Lab and Network (WDLN) in Côte d’Ivoire to help break the bias against women in STEAM fields.
-
MCC – Morocco Compact Achieves Milestone Despite Pandemic Challenges
Deputy Vice President Kyeh Kim visit Morocco to check in on the status of MCC projects to expand education and employment opportunities for young people and to improve land productivity.
-
MCC’s Results-Based Financing Work is Yielding Results…and Some Valuable Lessons
When effectively designed and implemented, results-based financing can help achieve sustainable progress.
-
Professional Equality Trophy Highlights Private Sector Efforts Toward Gender Equality in Morocco
On May 12, 2022, more than 250 stakeholders gathered to celebrate the awards ceremony of the sixth edition of the Professional Equality Trophy.
-
Center for Women’s Inclusion in Land Rights Launched in Morocco
The recent launch of the Center for Women’s Inclusion in Land Rights in Morocco is an important step forward for women in the country.
-
Data Collection in the Time of COVID-19
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, MCC tested new methods that will be adopted for future road evaluations.
-
With MCC Support, 10-Year Local Advocacy Effort for Women’s Rights on Target for Success
Policy reforms supported by MCC compacts in Lesotho usher in a new era of gender equality in Lesotho.
-
MCC-Pacific Islands Partnerships Lead to Growth and Prosperity
Countries in the Pacific Islands are home to dynamic cultures and rich natural resources and biodiversity but are vulnerable to shocks like natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. MCC’s work in the region aims to grow economies and prosperity.
-
MCC’s New Scorecard Indicator: Employment Opportunity
During its September 2022 meeting, MCC’s Board of Directors endorsed a new indicator for MCC’s Fiscal Year 2023 scorecard: Employment Opportunity.
-
MCC and NASA Push Agriculture Data to a New Frontier
Remote sensing is enhancing MCC's ability to monitor and evaluate its programs around the world, starting with Niger.
-
Answering the Global Call to Action – MCC and USAID’s Climate Finance +
MCC and USAID launch Climate Finance+ to strategically use public finance to unlock billions in private investments for climate-resilient infrastructure.
-
Unlocking Knowledge with Open Data
MCC's Evidence Platform makes MCC data and analysis available as a global public good.
-
Getting Results that Matter for Women and Youth in Morocco
Results-based Financing (RBF) mechanisms tie funding to measurable results, creating greater accountability and transparency in the use of funds.
-
Relevant Skills Are Being Baked into TVET Center Trainings
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Centers provide Moroccan students with in-demand skills.
-
TVET Center Training Empowers Moroccan Women to Build Skills
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Centers develop the professional skills of Moroccan women.
-
MCC-financed study finds Niger to be most groundwater-rich country in the Sahel region
Groundbreaking discovery helps rural communities in Niger tackle food insecurity.
-
Morocco Works to Decarbonize Industrial Parks for a Greener Future
Morocco tackles climate change by building green and low-carbon industrial parks.
-
Leveraging investment to create sustainable industrial parks in Morocco
Sustainable industrial parks boost economic growth in Morocco.
-
MCC Investments Empower Rural Women and Girls in the Developing World
MCC advances and improves the lives of rural women and girls around the world.
-
MCC’s Off-Grid Clean Energy Grant Facility Brings Energy Security to Women in Benin
MCC's Benin Power Compact brings clean energy to Beninese female entrepreneurs.
-
Entrepreneurial Women Get a Boost from Benin Power Compact
The Women’s Energy Entrepreneurship initiative in Benin trained and provided mentoring to businesses owned or managed by women.
-
Powering Growth and Measuring Impact
MCC pilots a novel remote sensing platform for detecting and monitoring electrical power outages.
-
MCC's Peatland Portfolio in Indonesia provides insights on how countries can prevent devastating wildfires
As wildfires increase in frequency, Indonesia introduces nature-based solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
-
MCC turns 20 in the AAAS's Science and Technology Policy Fellowship's (STPF) 50th Anniversary Year
AAAS Fellow Shilpa Constantinides brings valuable research contributions to Lesotho's Health and Horticulture Compact.
-
The Transformative Journey of STEM Camps for Girls in Côte d’Ivoire
Girls in Côte d’Ivoire advance their skills by attending MCC-funded STEM camps.
-
Harnessing the Power of Partnerships: Co-Creation and the Mozambique Compact’s Coastal Livelihoods and Climate Resilience Project
The Mozambique Compact's Coastal Livelihoods and Climate Resilience (CLCR) Project is an innovative, community-led approach to compact development.
-
MCC’s Partnerships Move the Needle on Sustainable Development Goals
MCC mapped its investments to the Sustainable Development Goals with surprising results.
-
MCC Raises the Bar on Girls’ Education
MCC’s Board of Directors recently endorsed two key improvements to the education indicators on MCC’s scorecards for FY2024.
-
The Roadmap to High-Quality Monitoring and Evaluation at MCC
Building on long experience, MCC announces major changes to Monitoring and Evaluation policy.
-
MCC Set to Invest in Stronger Digital Health Systems in Lesotho
MCC is working in partnership with the Lesotho Ministry of Health to ensure there is a strong health data system for the entire nation.
-
MCC Celebrates 20 years of Impactful Partnerships
MCC celebrates 20 years of data-driven investments that are delivering sustainable economic growth and reducing poverty.
-
Celebrating the Successes and Embracing the Lessons from MCC’s Second Compact with Georgia
With MCC’s commitment to independent evaluations of each of its projects, the results from MCC’s investments in Georgia are arriving.
-
Advancing Women’s Rights to Land Ownership in Morocco
The MCC-Morocco Land and Employability Compact supported the Government of Morocco to privatize and title collective agricultural land and empower women as landowners.
-
MCC’s Long Partnership with Benin is Changing Lives
Since 2006, MCC has provided nearly $900 million to Benin to strengthen the country’s economy and lift its people out of poverty.
-
MCC Launches Nutrition Investment Toolkit
MCC shares a new resource that supports taking a nutrition-smart approach to development programs.
-
Greener Pastures
MCC and Niger partnered to massively scale-up innovative practices in natural resource management, soil, and water conservation.
-
Empowering Women and Building Prosperity: MCC supports Lesotho in the fight against gender-based violence
Gender-based violence in Lesotho not only threatens the security, health, and dignity of survivors, it also negatively impacts the country’s economy.
-
Ten New MCC Reports Highlight Evidence-Based Approach to Poverty Reduction
MCC has published new Constraints Analysis reports to support the agency’s data-driven, evidence-based approach to providing development assistance.
-
Resilience at Scale: How the USG is Building Up Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Systems
Resilience at Scale, a new report by MCC and USAID, makes the case that, for too long, infrastructure planning and development has focused on developing individual assets, like a road or a building.
-
Sobehatunga Forest Rangers Saving the Solomon Islands - One Tree at a Time through the MCC-Solomon Islands Threshold Program
Learn how a partnership between the Government of Solomon Islands and the U.S. Government through MCC has prepared over 800 hectares of land, roughly the equivalent of 1,120 American football fields, to become a potential haven for biodiversity in a sanctuary named Sobehatunga.
-
Better Governance, More Equitable Growth
Are well-governed countries better at addressing the needs of poor people? According to a new paper from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) {link to paper}, the answer is yes, and even small improvements in governance are associated with large reductions in poverty.
Official websites use .gov
A
.gov website belongs to an official government
organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A
lock (
) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to
the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official,
secure websites.
