Africa: Forging Resilience – WHO Afro Establishes Independent Expert Body to Bolster Africa’s Health Security

The security situation in Uvira, DRC, has deteriorated, with clashes between FARDC and Wazalendo fighters leading to looting and violence, impacting medical facilities and patient care. MSF staff have been affected, treating over a hundred injured people in recent days. Amid rising insecurity, MSF is redirecting activities to support war-wounded patients in the region. Full Article

The Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary group in Sudan's civil war, signed a political charter in Nairobi to establish a parallel government, sparking diplomatic tensions with the U.S. and Sudan. Critics questioned their ability to govern due to a history of brutality, while Kenya's involvement raised concerns of influence from the United Arab Emirates. Despite recent military setbacks, the R.S.F. remains a significant force in Sudan, with ongoing support from the U.A.E. and neighboring countries....

Travelling can be exciting and fulfilling, but unexpected expenses can quickly dampen the experience. Tourist taxes, currency exchange fees, roaming charges, tipping customs, and emergencies are all potential additional costs to consider. It is essential to research and prepare for these expenses to avoid any financial surprises during your trip. Full Article

During a roadblock in Brakpan, motorists expressed mixed reactions to the heavy police presence, with some appreciating the effort to tackle crime in the area. Operation Shanela, led by Gauteng provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, involved various law enforcement agencies in activities such as roadblocks, patrols, and searches, resulting in the arrest of suspects and seizures of illegal items. The operation targeted contact crimes and illegal activities, leading to numerous arrests and the confiscation...

Heading to Kigali, Rwanda for the Pan-African Surgical Conference, where global experts aim to improve access to surgical care. Co-founder of Operation Smile, Kathy Magee, reflects on their journey from helping children in the Philippines to expanding globally, focusing on training local medical professionals in Africa. The organization's work has led to significant impact, with a shift towards sustainable surgical care through local expertise and partnerships. Full Article

The recent G20 foreign ministers' meeting highlighted economic divisions due to unresolved global challenges like inflation, trade tensions, and the Ukraine conflict, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's absence emphasizing major rifts. Despite the group's importance in addressing economic issues, differing views on trade, security, and recovery hindered cooperation, suggesting continued instability in global markets amidst rising inflation and recession concerns. Full Article