Listen nuh, you can't walk anywhere in Jamaica these days without encountering beggars. Yes, I know beggars have always been around. As global economic conditions worsen and the effects get passed on to the most vulnerable, though, the number of beggars on the street seems to be increasing every day. You nuh notice it?

They come in all ages, shapes, sizes, and conditions. And although I get plenty verbal abuse when I'm unable to give something, I still try and spare some change when I can. I have to confess, however, that I'm somewhat selective about whom I choose to help. Beggar nuh just get because dem beg! After all, it's not loans I'm delivering, but a series of small grants. Since it's my hard-earned money I'm giving away, I absolutely insist on determining who qualifies for these grants.

Yes, peeps, I usually make a quick assessment to decide if I want to help. If I see signs that indicate that 'letting off' my money will mean that I'm supporting a man's urge for the next drink, or his appetite for another spliff or cigarette, I harden my heart and walk on by briskly or siddung pon my wallet and drive off quickly. Yeah, I know it's easier said than done, but mi nuh business. My position is very simple: if man pocket can't afford a certain habit, then that man shouldn't have the habit!

Admittedly, I also tend to be a lot more partial to women beggars. And it's not because I think women are saints. No, mi friends, I truly believe that women and men are equal. Yes, we're equal in our potential to be either totally good or evil and every variable in between, but I know that women worldwide bear the major brunt of the effects of poverty. I also believe, and I've seen research that supports the belief, that a lot of men are generally more likely to spend their money on personal wants and creature comforts (like rounds of drinks for them and their friends) and focus less on the needs of the home where they sleep or where their children live.

On the other hand, although there are exceptions, and we all know some young women would rather spend money on their weaves, bleaching cream and umbrella-looking false eyelashes while their children run wild, walk hungry and beg on the streets, generally speaking, children are usually more likely to benefit when women spend money. Unnu nuh agree?

It's not just economic hardships though, you know. Major public-health issues also usually have a greater negative impact on women than on men. Ask yourself, for example, how many women in Jamaica (compared to men) have had to stay home and care for a partner or child who has been infected with the chikungunya virus! Now, consider how that affects everything from productivity to nutrition. Most of our teachers are women, so consider also, the effect on education.

As the world struggles to come to grips with the Ebola epidemic, it becomes obvious that women also are at greater risks. Think about it. According to an online article my brethren, Dr Peter Weller, sent me yesterday, the Washington Post has reported that across Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone collectively, women have comprised 55 to 60 per cent of the dead. In Liberia, the government has reported that 75 per cent of victims are women. These are facts that beg serious strategic responses.

As Peter rightly states, "Caribbean chik-V and Ebola-prevention strategies need to develop targeted interventions to specifically address both women and men. The needs and roles may differ and require unique messages and strategies". What say you? Mi a beg some responses!

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