Zimbabwe Introduces Stringent Measures to Combat Deadly Cholera Outbreak

Zimbabwe Introduces Stringent Measures To Combat Deadly Cholera Outbreak

Amidst a deadly cholera outbreak in Zimbabwe, the government has implemented new measures aimed at halting the spread of the disease. The capital city, Harare, has been placed under a state of emergency, with over 1,200 laboratory-confirmed cases reported across ten provinces in the country.

To address the crisis, the Zimbabwean government has established 46 cholera treatment camps and multiple oral re-hydration points, ensuring that essential services are easily accessible to affected individuals. Hand washing stations and sanitation devices will be installed in public areas to minimise the risk of person-to-person transmission. Furthermore, the government plans to train and deploy approximately 300 healthcare personnel who will conduct door-to-door campaigns to educate the public about cholera.

Acting Health Minister Amon Murwira emphasised the importance of community engagement and collaboration in tackling the outbreak. Various initiatives, such as community dialogues, inter-faith discussions, and stakeholder sensitisation programs, have been scheduled for districts with high cholera incidence rates.

In addition, the government has taken steps to ensure the provision of safe water in affected urban areas. Water tracking systems will be implemented immediately, while water quality monitoring will be conducted across all regions. The supervision of burials in cholera-affected areas will be strengthened, and restrictions on gatherings in such locations will be intensified, according to Information Minister Jenfan Muswere.

The Zimbabwean authorities are taking these stringent measures to curb the spread of cholera and protect public health. Cholera is a highly contagious waterborne disease that can cause severe illness and death if left untreated. By prioritising public awareness, access to treatment, and sanitation practices, the government aims to mitigate the impact of the outbreak and safeguard the well-being of its citizens.

 

Source: CGTN Africa

UN Announces Broader Rollout of Malaria Vaccine in Africa, Signalling a New Era in Disease Control

The United Nations has announced the expansion of malaria vaccination efforts across Africa following the arrival of the first shipment of doses in Cameroon. After a successful pilot phase in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi, where over two million children were vaccinated since 2019, the program is now entering a broader rollout phase. A total of 331,200 doses of RTS,S, the first malaria vaccine recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), have arrived in Cameroon’s capital, Yaounde.

The WHO, UNICEF, and the Gavi vaccine alliance released a joint statement welcoming the delivery, stating that it signifies the imminent scale-up of malaria vaccination in high-risk areas of the African continent. They described it as a historic step toward vaccinating against one of the deadliest diseases affecting African children. The doses are donated by the manufacturer GSK.

Cameroon’s Health Minister, Malachie Manaouda, urged parents to take advantage of this life-saving intervention, emphasising that malaria remains a significant public health threat in the country. In the coming weeks, an additional 1.7 million doses will be delivered to Burkina Faso, Liberia, Niger, and Sierra Leone.

Malaria is the leading cause of mortality in infants and children under five in Liberia. Wilhelmina Jallah, Liberia’s Health Minister, expressed the potential of the vaccine to save many lives and alleviate the burden of the disease.

Several African countries are finalising preparations to introduce malaria vaccines into routine immunisation programs, with the first doses set to be administered between January and March 2024. UNICEF Chief Catherine Russell likened the introduction of vaccines to adding a star player to the field, marking a new era in immunisation and malaria control.

Africa accounted for approximately 95 percent of global malaria cases and 96 percent of related deaths in 2021. While global malaria deaths fell significantly between 2000 and 2019, reaching 568,000, they increased by 10 percent in 2020 to 625,000 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on protection and treatment efforts. In 2021, deaths slightly decreased to 619,000, with 77 percent of them being children under five. Global malaria cases rose slightly to 247 million.

The rollout of the RTS,S vaccine is considered a breakthrough moment for malaria vaccines and disease control. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described it as a ray of light in a dark time for vulnerable children worldwide. The vaccine targets the plasmodium falciparum parasite, the most deadly malaria parasite globally and the most prevalent in Africa. Administered in a four-dose schedule starting around five months of age, the broad implementation of malaria vaccination in endemic regions has the potential to be a game-changer, saving tens of thousands of lives annually, according to the joint statement released by the WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi.

David Walton, the United States’ global malaria coordinator, described this moment as the culmination of decades of efforts and expressed hope for a world in which no child dies from a mosquito bite. The expanded vaccination campaign brings renewed optimism for malaria control and paves the way for a future where the impact of this devastating disease is significantly reduced.

 

Source; Africa News

Nigeria Calls for Increased Investment in Mining Sector, Unveils Reforms to Boost Growth

Nigeria Calls For Increased Investment In Mining Sector, Unveils Reforms To Boost Growth

Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Oladele Alake, has outlined fresh commitments and reforms aimed at attracting investment and accelerating growth in the country’s mining sector. Speaking at the Mines & Money Conference in London, Alake emphasized the need to streamline business transactions, enhance security in mining operations, and capitalise on Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources.

Citing a report by audit firm KPMG, Alake highlighted the positive growth of the mining sector, with its contribution to Nigeria’s GDP increasing from 0.3 percent to 0.85 percent last year, representing a year-on-year growth rate of 0.63 percent. He underscored the country’s geological potential, which encompasses over 44 distinct mineral types across more than 500 locations, including the newly recognised strategic mineral, lithium.

The Minister emphasised the administration’s commitment to reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment. These reforms include streamlining procedures, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and creating a favourable environment for solid minerals development. Alake also highlighted recent progress in data collection through partnerships with organisations like the Airborne Geophysical Survey and German firm Geoscan, which aim to gather comprehensive data on solid minerals across the country.

Alake stressed the importance of value addition and beatification in Nigeria’s mining industry. The government aims to move beyond raw mineral exports and promote processing within the country. By adding value to raw materials, Nigeria seeks to generate employment opportunities, particularly for the youth, and increase the sector’s profitability and contribution to the nation’s GDP.

The Minister called on investors to prioritise the socio-economic development of communities where mining operations take place. He highlighted the revised guidelines for the Community Development Agreement, which promotes initiatives such as social amenities, educational support, and environmental facilities to benefit local communities.

The reforms and commitments unveiled by Minister Oladele Alake indicate Nigeria’s determination to attract investment and harness the potential of its mining sector. By simplifying procedures, improving security, and promoting value addition, the government aims to create a conducive environment for both domestic and foreign investors. These initiatives not only have the potential to drive economic growth but also contribute to job creation, youth empowerment, and the overall development of Nigeria’s mining industry.

 

Source: Premium Times

Glasgow Faces Housing Emergency as Homelessness Reaches Critical Levels

Glasgow Faces Housing Emergency As Homelessness Reaches Critical Levels

The city of Glasgow is on the brink of a housing emergency, with homelessness reaching alarming levels, according to the councillor responsible for overseeing homelessness services. As the number of individuals in temporary accommodation continues to rise, along with an increase in the use of bed and breakfast establishments, authorities are bracing themselves for a significant surge in homelessness during the upcoming winter season.

The situation is expected to be exacerbated by the UK Home Office’s decision to expedite asylum claims in batches, which is likely to result in a higher number of individuals finding themselves without a home. If asylum seekers are granted a positive decision, they will be given a 28-day period to vacate the accommodation provided by Home Office contractor Mears. Failure to secure alternative housing within this time-frame will lead to their referral to the council’s homelessness team.

Allan Casey, City Convenor for Workforce, Homelessness, and Addiction Services, is proposing the official declaration of a housing emergency. In his motion, Casey urges the council to recognise the immense pressures faced by Glasgow City Council and the Health and Social Care Partnership, formally acknowledging that these pressures constitute a housing emergency. He also calls for concerted efforts to lobby the Scottish and UK Governments for the necessary funding and legislative changes required to address the crisis.

Estimates suggest that the acceleration of asylum applications could result in a cost of £53 million for the council in the coming year, with the Home Office indicating that it will not provide any financial assistance. Furthermore, alongside the rising number of individuals granted permission to stay, there has been an increase in the number of claims being refused. Consequently, more people find themselves ineligible for public support, falling under the category of ‘No recourse to public funds’ (NRPF), and the council anticipates a surge in rough sleeping as a consequence.

The influx of asylum seekers compounds an already growing number of individuals seeking assistance due to homelessness. Casey highlighted the strain on homelessness services in the city, citing the significant increase in approaches for housing advice and homelessness assistance made to the Health and Social Care Partnership. The escalating demand is predicted to lead to a higher number of homelessness applications and a greater reliance on temporary accommodation.

The combined effect of the increasing number of asylum decisions and the rising local homelessness rate has resulted in more individuals being placed in bed and breakfast establishments, placing the council in breach of unsuitable accommodation orders. Campaigners have long been advocating for a declaration of a housing emergency in Glasgow, emphasising the urgent need for action. They argue that the current system is failing, leaving thousands of homeless individuals languishing in substandard and squalid temporary accommodation, with detrimental effects on their physical and mental well-being.

As the situation reaches a critical point, Glasgow faces a pressing challenge in addressing the housing crisis. The declaration of a housing emergency, coupled with substantial funding and legislative support from the Scottish and UK Governments, is crucial in providing immediate relief and long-term solutions to combat homelessness and ensure the well-being and dignity of all residents in the city.

 

Source: Glasgow Times

Nigerian Man Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Cyber Fraud Scheme Targeting US Corporations

Nigerian Man Pleads Guilty To Multimillion Dollar Cyber Fraud Scheme Targeting Us Corporations

In a significant development, 33-year-old Idris Dayo Mustapha, a British-Nigerian man, has confessed to orchestrating a highly sophisticated cyber fraud scheme that spanned seven years. Mustapha, a prominent member of a hacking ring, meticulously targeted email and brokerage accounts of US corporations from 2011 to 2018, resulting in staggering losses exceeding $6 million (£4.7 million).

US authorities had been diligently pursuing Mustapha for several years, and their relentless efforts have finally led to a breakthrough in the case. Mustapha appeared before a court in Brooklyn, New York, on Tuesday, where he entered a guilty plea to four charges: computer intrusion, securities fraud, wire fraud, and access device fraud, as reported by the BBC.

According to authorities familiar with the investigation, Mustapha and his accomplices hacked into the computer servers of various financial institutions in the United States, successfully gaining access to highly confidential user data, including personal identifying information. Armed with this stolen information and passwords, they undertook a series of transactions that involved transferring funds and securities from the victims’ accounts to accounts under their control.

The cybercriminals also exploited the compromised accounts to execute stock trades without the knowledge or consent of the legitimate account holders. This covert manipulation allowed Mustapha and his ring to profit illicitly while leaving the unsuspecting victims with significant financial losses.

Given the severity and scale of the crimes committed, Mustapha faces a potential prison term of up to 20 years. His guilty plea serves as a crucial milestone in the ongoing efforts to hold cybercriminals accountable and safeguard the integrity of financial systems.

The successful apprehension and prosecution of Mustapha highlight the tireless work of law enforcement agencies in combating cybercrime. It underscores the importance of international collaboration and the continuous adaptation of security measures to address the evolving tactics employed by cybercriminals.

As technology continues to advance, the specter of cyber fraud looms ever larger. This case serves as a reminder of the need for individuals, organizations, and governments to remain vigilant in safeguarding sensitive information, enhancing cybersecurity protocols, and educating the public about potential threats.

The conclusion of this high-profile case emphasises the unwavering commitment to justice and the determination to pursue those responsible for perpetrating cyber fraud. It sends a clear message that cybercriminals will be pursued relentlessly and held accountable for their actions, as authorities strive to protect individuals, corporations, and the global financial ecosystem from the perils of cybercrime.

 

Source: Africa News

Niger Coup Leaders Repeal Law Criminalising Migrant Smuggling, Raising Concerns

Niger Coup Leaders Repeal Law Criminalising Migrant Smuggling, Raising Concerns

The coup leaders in Niger have overturned an eight-year-old law that criminalised migrant smuggling in the country, signalling a shift in the country’s approach to managing migration. The legislation, which aimed to combat the trafficking of migrants through Niger’s vast desert to Libya and Europe, had been instrumental in reducing the number of asylum seekers and migrants attempting to reach Europe in 2015.

President Mohamed Bazoum, who had collaborated with the European Union (EU) to stem the flow of people across the Mediterranean, was ousted in a coup in July. General Abdourahmane Tchiani has since declared himself the new head of state, and his ruling junta announced the repeal of the law, stating that it did not align with Niger’s interests.

The junta also declared that convictions made under the 2015 law would be nullified. This move indicates the junta’s intention to assert its authority over Niger’s sovereignty, defying international pressure. Following the coup, the EU suspended all security cooperation with Niger, and its foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, along with the United States and France, refused to recognise Gen Tchiani as the leader. Borrell also announced the indefinite suspension of budgetary aid to Niger.

The repeal of the law poses a significant challenge to the EU’s strategy for managing migration flows from Africa. While it successfully reduced the number of migrants attempting the perilous journey to Europe, traffickers criticised the law’s strictness, as it carried severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and vehicle confiscation.

Concerns now arise that trafficking networks may seize the opportunity presented by the law’s repeal to resume pushing migrants into neighbouring countries such as Libya or Algeria, for onward transportation to Europe. Niger occupies a crucial position in the Sahel region, a belt of land stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea, making it a key transit route for migration.

The response from the EU regarding this setback to its migration management strategy remains uncertain. The repeal of the law by the coup leaders in Niger underscores the complexities and challenges associated with addressing migration issues and highlights the delicate balance between migration control measures and human rights considerations.

 

Source: BBC

Kenya Celebrates Impressive Strides in HIV/AIDS Fight, Acknowledges Partnership with PEPFAR

Kenya Celebrates Impressive Strides In Hivaids Fight, Acknowledges Partnership With Pepfar

President Ruto of Kenya expressed gratitude for the United States’ support through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), highlighting the remarkable progress made in the country’s battle against the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Speaking at the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) 20th Anniversary Celebration in Kenya, President Ruto emphasised the transformative impact of the partnership between the two nations.

“We are highly grateful to the US government for this partnership that has changed the fortunes of our nation. Such a strong show of solidarity is highly appreciated, and we do not take the friendship and support for granted,” said President Ruto, acknowledging the rare nature of the collaboration.

President Ruto reflected on the devastating toll HIV/AIDS had taken on Kenyan households and communities just two decades ago, leaving behind a trail of death, illness, orphaned children, and socioeconomic devastation. However, he praised the significant strides made since then, attributing them to the support received from PEPFAR.

Over the past two years, President Ruto’s administration has increased financial investment in the HIV commodity pipeline by Sh 1 billion to prevent disruptions in the supply of essential resources. Furthermore, the government is committed to ending AIDS in children by 2027, in alignment with the goals set by the Global Alliance.

“The time is now to take a strong stand and make up for lost ground for the sake of Kenya’s children,” emphasised President Ruto, highlighting the universal healthcare coverage pillar of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda as a crucial opportunity to address the domestic financing gap related to HIV/AIDS effectively.

President Ruto expressed his gratitude to PEPFAR, which has channelled over US dollars 6.5 billion into Kenya’s fight against the disease since 2004. The impact of this support has resulted in a 68.5 percent reduction in new HIV infections and a 53 percent reduction in HIV-related mortality. The quality of life for individuals living with HIV has also significantly improved.

Currently, 1.4 million people in Kenya are living with HIV, with 1.3 million receiving anti-retroviral therapy (ART) through more than 3,000 health facilities nationwide. Among the recipients are over 48,000 children and 55,000 breastfeeding mothers.

US Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, emphasised the importance of partnership between the government and the private sector in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She called for continued collaboration with the private sector to raise awareness about the disease and contain its spread.

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha expressed satisfaction with the progress made in Kenya’s efforts against HIV/AIDS, highlighting that 95 percent of those afflicted with the disease are receiving treatment. Kenya is determined to end HIV/AIDS in children by 2027, aiming to achieve this milestone ahead of the global target of 2030.

Joyce Ouma, a representative from the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS, extended gratitude to the government and PEPFAR for their support in providing life-saving medications to individuals affected by the disease.

The celebration of Kenya’s achievements in combating HIV/AIDS serves as a testament to the power of international partnerships and collective efforts in overcoming significant health challenges. As the country continues its fight against the pandemic, the commitment to ending AIDS and ensuring the well-being of its citizens remains at the forefront of Kenya’s agenda.

 

Source: Capital FM Kenya

New Gorbals Housing Association Granted Permission to Develop Homes at Pine Place

New Gorbals Housing Association Granted Permission To Develop Homes At Pine Place

In an exciting development for the Gorbals neighbourhood in Glasgow, the New Gorbals Housing Association has been granted permission to construct 18 flats and 10 houses at Pine Place. The land, previously occupied by the Gorbals Health Centre, which was demolished in early 2020, will now be transformed into a vibrant residential community.

The plans, submitted to the Glasgow City Council, outline the association’s vision of providing high-quality homes for social rent in close proximity to the centre of Glasgow. This initiative builds upon the ongoing regeneration efforts in the wider Gorbals area.

Purchased from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, the site will feature a terrace of 10 townhouses, offering a combination of four and five bedrooms, each equipped with private gardens. Additionally, a five-storey block of flats will be constructed at the north end of Pine Place, with ground-floor properties specifically designed to be wheelchair-accessible.

The location of the development, near the Gorbals Rose Garden, is particularly noteworthy, as it is regarded as “one of the few places” in the area suitable for the construction of family-sized houses. The New Gorbals Housing Association has expressed its commitment to maximising the number of family homes that can be comfortably accommodated on the street.

To meet the needs of residents, the project will include the provision of 22 car parking spaces, ensuring convenient access for homeowners and tenants alike.

With the approval of the Glasgow City Council, the New Gorbals Housing Association is poised to create a thriving residential community at Pine Place, offering modern and affordable housing options in the heart of Glasgow. This development represents another positive step in the ongoing revitalisation of the Gorbals area, bringing new life and opportunities to the local community.

 

Source: Glasgow World

Nigerian Student Found Guilty of Making Terrorist Threats Against Dundee University in the UK

Nigerian Student Found Guilty Of Making Terrorist Threats Against Dundee University In The Uk

A Nigerian master’s student, Somtochukwu Okwuoha, has been remanded in custody after a jury convicted him of making terrorist threats against Dundee University in Scotland. The 26-year-old student claimed to have enlisted the support of ISIS, an international terrorist organization, to carry out a bombing at the university. Additionally, Okwuoha made alarming statements about planning a chemical attack targeting Dundee.

Okwuoha’s conviction follows his arrest and subsequent trial. The jury found him guilty on seven charges related to making terrorist threats against the university. As a result, he now faces imprisonment and potential deportation back to Nigeria. Sentencing is scheduled for December, and the presiding sheriff, William Wood, will consider the Crown’s request for a deportation order.

During the trial at Perth Sheriff Court, witnesses recounted Okwuoha’s statements to university staff members, revealing his alleged intentions to commit mass murder on the Dundee University campus. Witnesses testified that Okwuoha claimed to possess a military background and the capability to create explosive devices and unleash a deadly virus on the city.

Keith Mackle, a retired director of student services, informed the court about the serious concerns that emerged in autumn 2021 when staff members began receiving emails containing terrorist threats. One of the emails read, “Expect a massive bomb explosion at the University of Dundee. I have contacted ISIS terrorists to plant bombs on campus. I can assure you staff and students will die in great numbers. 9/11 will be a joke compared to what will happen. Blood will spill and flesh will be scattered.”

Shane Taylor, an accommodation officer, also testified that Okwuoha accused him of racism and expressed a desire to exact revenge by wiping out Scottish people.

The conviction of Somtochukwu Okwuoha highlights the seriousness of the charges and the potential threat posed by individuals making terrorist threats. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and prompt action in response to such threats. Authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of educational institutions and the communities they serve.

 

Source: Premium Times Nigeria

West African Countries Battle Massive Diphtheria Outbreaks as Vaccination Efforts Intensify

West African Countries Battle Massive Diphtheria Outbreaks As Vaccination Efforts Intensify

Authorities in multiple West African countries are grappling with significant diphtheria outbreaks, with Nigeria at the forefront of vaccination campaigns to address widespread gaps in immunity. As the largest outbreak in recent history, Nigeria has reported 573 deaths among the 11,640 diagnosed cases since December 2022, although officials believe the actual toll may be higher in states struggling to detect numerous instances. In Niger, there have been 37 fatalities out of 865 cases as of October, while Guinea has recorded 58 deaths out of 497 since June.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control’s Head, Ifedayo Adetifa, stated, “As far as the history that I am aware of, this is the largest outbreak that we have had.” The highly contagious bacterial infection has spread to 20 out of Nigeria’s 36 states.

A primary factor contributing to the region’s high infection rate is the significant gap in vaccination coverage, according to Doctors Without Borders (MSF). Government surveys reveal that only 42% of children under 15 in Nigeria and 47% in Guinea are fully protected against diphtheria, far below the World Health Organization’s recommended rate of 80-85% for community protection.

Compounding the situation is the global shortage of the diphtheria vaccine, as demand has surged in response to the outbreaks, MSF noted. Dr. Dagemlidet Tesfaye Worku, emergency medical program manager for MSF in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, emphasized the urgent need for a substantial increase in vaccination efforts.

To address the crisis, the Nigerian government is intensifying vaccination for targeted populations and supporting states in enhancing their capacity for case detection and management, according to Adetifa. However, several states, including Kano, which accounts for over 75% of cases in Nigeria, continue to face challenges due to limited diphtheria treatment centres and the need for people to travel significant distances to access treatment.

The battle against diphtheria outbreaks in West Africa necessitates swift and comprehensive action to expand vaccination coverage and improve healthcare infrastructure. With the collective efforts of governments, healthcare organizations, and international support, the region aims to curb the spread of the disease and safeguard the health of its population.

 

Source: Africa News