Every year on 17 October, the world commemorates the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, a moment to reflect on the injustices that keep millions trapped in cycles of deprivation. It is a time to reaffirm our collective commitment to building societies where dignity, equity, and opportunity are accessible to all.
The theme, “Ending social and institutional maltreatment by ensuring respect and effective support for families,” calls for a renewed commitment to dismantling the systemic barriers that undermine family well-being and perpetuate poverty. It urges governments, civil society, and international institutions to prioritise the rights and needs of those living in poverty and ensure that no one is left behind.
Families are the foundation of society. Yet across Africa, many continue to face institutional neglect, economic exclusion, and social marginalisation. From inadequate access to healthcare and education to regressive tax systems that disproportionately burden low-income households, the maltreatment of families is both a cause and consequence of poverty.
Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA) joins regional and global partners in commemorating this day by advocating policies that uphold the dignity of families and promote equitable development.
TJNA’s Senior Policy Officer, Mr. Ishmael Zulu calls for tax justice in Africa noting that it is key to building societies where families are respected, supported, and empowered.
“When institutions fail to support families, they fail society. Poverty is not just about income; it’s about the erosion of dignity and opportunity. We must build systems that respect families and invest in their potential,” TJNA’s Senior Policy Officer, Mr. Ishmael Zulu adds.
Through our work on Tax and Equity, TJNA continues to expose the structural injustices that fuel poverty, including illicit financial flows, unfair tax treaties, and opaque public finance systems. These issues divert resources away from essential services and weaken the social safety nets that families rely on.
“Ending poverty means ending the institutional practices that exclude and exploit. It means designing tax systems that are fair, budgets that are transparent, and policies that put families first,” adds Mr. Zulu.
As we mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2025, TJNA calls for progressive tax reforms that reduce the burden on vulnerable families and ensure the wealthy contribute their fair share while strengthening accountability mechanisms to ensure institutions serve all citizens equitably, especially those historically marginalised.
TJNA remains committed to working with civil society, governments, and international partners to build a future where families are not just protected, but empowered to thrive and promote transparent, inclusive public finance systems that prioritise investments in education, healthcare, and social protection.
Related resources:
TJNA Participates in People’s Alternatives Assembly to Advance Fiscal Justice and Equity in Kenya
TJNA calls for a fair and just global tax system at the 6th African Philanthropy Conference
For further information, please contact Ishmael Zulu at izulu[@]taxjusticeafrica.net
