Africa: UNAIDS Welcomes the Decision By The US Secretary of State to Continue Life-Saving HIV Treatment And Convenes Partners to Assess and Mitigate Impacts On HIV Services

A rebel militia known as M23, backed by Rwanda, has seized Goma, a key city in the Congo, displacing 500,000 civilians and raising fears of a broader war. M23, founded in 2012, aims to protect Tutsis and Kinyarwanda speakers in eastern Congo and has a history of conflict with the Congolese government. Led by Sultani Makenga, M23 controls significant territory and has caused a humanitarian crisis in Goma, with violence, lack of basic services, and...

The Ministry of Health of Sierra Leone and Mercy Ships have extended their partnership, with the Global Mercy hospital ship staying in Freetown until June 2026, continuing to provide free surgeries and healthcare training. A protocol agreement has been signed to deepen collaboration and support lasting change in Sierra Leone's healthcare system through 2030, emphasizing the significant impact and shared commitment between the two parties. Educational initiatives and training programs aim to improve access to...

Dr. Hon Pak, Senior Vice President at Samsung Electronics, emphasizes the importance of AI in driving progress in healthcare through solutions like Energy Score, which quantifies physical and mental energy levels. Samsung aims to leverage AI for early disease prevention, focusing on areas like blood glucose monitoring, to support proactive health management and simplify the wellness journey for all. As a global tech leader, Samsung is poised to revolutionize the digital health industry with its...

Vestergaard Sàrl has signed the Kigali Declaration on NTDs, committing to support the elimination of sleeping sickness by donating "Tiny Targets" for vector control. This commitment aligns with the WHO's goal to eliminate transmission of sleeping sickness in 15 countries by 2030. By partnering with organizations like TrypaNO! and TrypElim, Vestergaard aims to drive sleeping sickness cases to zero through innovative insecticide-treated fabric that attracts and kills tsetse flies. Full Article

Fakarava, a diving paradise in French Polynesia, was a lifelong dream for the author, who finally visited after 10 years of anticipation. The island's stunning beauty and abundance of sharks make it a must-visit for diving enthusiasts. With limited accommodation options, transportation on the island is mainly by bicycle, allowing easy access to sights like the famous PK9 beach and world-renowned diving spots with hundreds of gray reef sharks. Full Article

Gauteng, the smallest of nine provinces, offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of activities to explore. Highlights include the NIROX Sculpture Park with art installations in a natural setting, Gold Reef City for thrilling rides and dining options, and Vilakazi Street in Soweto with historic significance. Other must-visit attractions include the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens for nature lovers, the Union Buildings in Pretoria for architectural grandeur, and the Kruger House Museum in Pretoria for...