**High Marginalization Areas in Baja California: A Statewide Overview**
The government of Baja California has identified 53 high marginalization zones throughout the state, where a significant percentage of residents live in poverty. According to the governor, Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, these zones lack essential services such as water, sewage, electricity, and paved roads. The absence of these basic amenities leads to respiratory issues among residents due to exposure to road dust.
Efforts to address these issues are underway, as emphasized by the governor during a forum at the Universidad Xochicalco. She highlighted the importance of implementing policies that can combat poverty and improve living conditions. Data from the National Council for the Evaluation of Social Development Policy (Coneval) indicates a decline in moderate poverty from 21.0% in 2020 to 12.1% in 2022, with extreme poverty slightly reducing from 1.5% to 1.3%.
Governor Ávila Olmeda stated, “We continue to face challenges, but our poverty rates are significantly below the national average.” Cynthia Martínez, from the UN Office for Social and Economic Development, also participated in the forum. She acknowledged that while other regions are focused on tackling extreme poverty, Baja California has the potential to completely eradicate poverty due to its relatively lower rates.
**Additional Developments in Baja California**
1. **Healthcare Improvements**: Baja California is making progress in addressing healthcare gaps. Efforts are being made to ensure more equitable access to services across the state.
2. **Affordable Housing in Tijuana**: Nearly half of the housing being produced in Tijuana is aimed at affordability, as reported by the National Chamber of the Housing Development and Promotion Industry (Canadevi).
3. **Support for Small Businesses**: Tijuana’s private sector is looking to offer loans to small and medium businesses to promote formalization and growth.
4. **Tourism and Safety Concerns**: Despite temporary construction suspensions at the Tijuana Beaches boardwalk due to missing permits and safety protocol violations, tourists continue to visit the area.
5. **Economic Challenges**: Increasing rents are a concern for small retailers in Tijuana, potentially impacting their operations.
6. **Safety Initiatives**: A Regional State Security Table is set to be established in Tijuana to address the high number of incidents directly affecting the area, as highlighted by Aguilar Durán.
7. **Cultural and Seasonal Attractions**: Tijuana offers various attractions for autumn, including locations with scenic views, dining options, and festivities inspired by Halloween and Día de Muertos.
Stay informed with the latest updates on social issues and economic developments in Baja California.