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

Devastating Flooding in Somalia Sparks State of Emergency as El Nino Intensifies

Devastating Flooding In Somalia Sparks State Of Emergency As El Nino Intensifies

Somalia is grappling with a severe state of emergency as the country faces intensified flooding worsened by the El Nino weather phenomenon. Regions of Somalia have been hit hard by heavy rainfall, leading to destructive floods that have displaced thousands and left communities in turmoil.

One of the hardest-hit areas is the densely populated town of Beledweyne, located near the border with Ethiopia. The Shabelle River, swollen from the excessive rainfall, has breached its banks, resulting in the destruction of numerous homes and forcing residents to seek refuge on higher ground. The situation has compounded the challenges faced by families who had previously fled drought and violence, only to find themselves confronted with another calamity.

Hakima Mohamud Hareed, a mother of four, including a disabled child, expressed the desperate plight of her family. Having recently moved to Beledweyne to escape conflict, they now find themselves battling the floods. The displacement camp where they sought shelter, known as Kutiimo, was not spared from the devastation. Their small, tattered tent was washed away by the floodwaters, leaving them with nothing but their lives. It has been a traumatic experience for them, underscoring the urgent need for assistance.

Save the Children, a humanitarian organization, estimates that approximately 90% of Beledweyne’s population, or around 250,000 people, have been displaced by the flooding. The federal government of Somalia declared a state of emergency in October due to the extreme weather conditions exacerbated by El Nino. Homes, roads, and bridges have been destroyed, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

El Nino is a temporary and periodic warming of a portion of the Pacific Ocean, which influences weather patterns worldwide. Its impact is most severe during December through February. Scientists believe that climate change is amplifying the intensity of El Nino episodes. Consequently, Somalia, along with neighbouring countries such as Kenya and Ethiopia, continues to experience torrential rainfall. Aid agencies have described the flooding as an uncommon phenomenon, resulting in the loss of at least 130 lives across the three countries.

The United Nations-backed Somali Water and Land Information Management project has warned of a flood event of unprecedented magnitude, statistically expected to occur once in a century. The rainy season, which extends until December, poses a significant threat to approximately 1.6 million people in Somalia alone.

The devastation in Beledweyne is particularly severe, with homes being swept away by the floodwaters. Although Hakima’s family is safe from immediate flooding in their camp, they face new challenges of hunger and the desperate need for adequate shelter. They implore their fellow Somalis to come to their aid, as their survival hangs in the balance.

Mukhtar Moalim, the owner of a retail shop in Beledweyne’s market, recounted the frantic efforts he and his relative made to save their property when the river burst its banks. Their attempts to block the water from entering the shop proved futile as the water levels continued to rise, jeopardizing their residence above the store.

Hassan Issee, who manages emergency operations at the Somalia Disaster Management Agency, confirmed that the situation is grave, with at least 53 deaths reported across Somalia due to flooding. Efforts are underway to provide relief to the affected people, but the scale of the disaster requires substantial support.

Even the capital city, Mogadishu, has not been spared from the impact of the floods. Major roads, including the crucial route to the airport, have been submerged, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the population.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, speaking from the Dollow district of the Gedo region, where numerous families have been displaced, appealed to the international community for assistance. While the government is making every effort to address the crisis, additional support is urgently needed to alleviate the suffering of the affected population.

 

Source: The Independent

Nigerians Granted Right to Bring Claims Against Shell in UK

Nigerians Granted Right To Bring Claims Against Shell In Uk

In a ground-breaking decision, the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom has ruled that Nigerian citizens can bring legal claims against oil giant Shell in British courts. This landmark judgment opens the door for individuals and communities affected by Shell’s operations in Nigeria to seek justice and compensation on foreign soil.

The case stems from allegations of serious human rights abuses and environmental damage caused by Shell’s activities in the Niger Delta region. For decades, local communities have claimed that the company’s oil exploration and extraction operations have resulted in devastating consequences, including pollution, destruction of farmlands, and health issues among residents.

Until now, Nigerian plaintiffs faced significant barriers when attempting to hold Shell accountable. The multinational corporation argued that the claims should be heard in Nigerian courts, where the legal process is often slow, expensive, and susceptible to corruption. This ruling, however, paves the way for affected Nigerians to pursue justice in the UK, where they can benefit from a more robust legal framework.

The Supreme Court’s decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for similar cases involving multinational corporations operating in developing countries. It establishes an important precedent, emphasizing the responsibility of companies for the actions of their subsidiaries overseas. The ruling also recognizes the right of individuals and communities to access justice in countries where the corporation is headquartered and where its decisions are made.

Human rights groups and environmental activists have hailed the judgment as a significant victory for global justice. They argue that it will help level the playing field for communities that have long been marginalized and lack the resources to challenge powerful corporations. By allowing Nigerian plaintiffs to bring their claims before UK courts, the decision sends a strong message that companies must be held accountable for their actions, regardless of the jurisdiction in which they operate.

However, some critics express concerns about the potential flood of lawsuits that may follow this ruling. They argue that it could burden UK courts with a large number of cases and create a precedent that companies may find discouraging for future investments in developing nations. Nevertheless, proponents of the ruling contend that it strikes a necessary balance between corporate accountability and access to justice for affected communities.

Shell, one of the world’s largest oil companies, has faced numerous allegations of misconduct and environmental damage in Nigeria over the years. The company has previously settled some cases out of court, but this ruling signifies a significant shift in the legal landscape. It signals a new era where multinational corporations can be held accountable for their actions in their home countries, even when the harm occurs thousands of miles away.

As Nigerians celebrate this ground-breaking ruling, attention now turns to the practicalities of how affected communities can navigate the UK legal system. Legal experts anticipate an influx of claims against Shell and other companies operating in similar contexts. Ultimately, this ruling highlights the growing recognition that corporate responsibility extends beyond national borders and underscores the need for stronger mechanisms to address human rights abuses and environmental harm caused by multinational corporations.

 

Source: The Guardian

Nigeria’s Legal System Undergoes Transformation as Senate Commences Review of Outdated Statutes

Nigeria's Legal System Undergoes Transformation As Senate Commences Review Of Outdated Statutes

In a significant move towards modernisation and progress, the Nigerian Senate has embarked on a historic journey to review the country’s archaic laws. This landmark decision reflects the nation’s commitment to aligning its legal framework with the evolving needs of its citizens and the changing dynamics of the modern world. By embracing this crucial reform, Nigeria aims to foster a more just, inclusive, and forward-looking society.

Nigeria, like many other countries, has long been burdened by a plethora of outdated laws that have failed to keep pace with societal advancements. These archaic statutes, some dating back to the colonial era, have become increasingly irrelevant and out of touch with contemporary realities. Consequently, they hinder progress, impede justice, and often perpetuate social injustices.

Recognising the urgency and importance of legal reform, the Nigerian Senate has taken a proactive stance by initiating the review of these archaic laws. This ambitious undertaking signals a renewed commitment to ensuring that the legal system is responsive, fair, and effective in addressing the needs of Nigeria’s diverse population.

The review process encompasses a comprehensive evaluation of existing legislation across various sectors, ranging from criminal law to commercial regulations, from human rights to intellectual property. The aim is to identify obsolete provisions, rectify inconsistencies, remove discriminatory clauses, and introduce new laws that reflect contemporary values and global best practices.

The Senate’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency is evident through its emphasis on public participation and expert consultation. Recognising that legal reforms impact every citizen, stakeholders from civil society organisations, legal professionals, academia, and the general public are being actively engaged in the review process. This inclusive approach ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, and the resultant legal framework represents the collective aspirations of Nigerians.

The review of archaic laws holds immense potential for the socio-economic development and overall well-being of Nigeria. By eliminating outdated regulations, the country can foster a more conducive environment for investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the reform will enhance citizens’ access to justice, protect human rights, and strengthen the rule of law. It also paves the way for aligning national legislation with international standards and treaties, bolstering Nigeria’s standing in the global community.

While the task of reviewing archaic laws is undoubtedly complex, the Senate’s determination to navigate this transformative process is commendable. However, the road ahead may present challenges such as resistance to change, conflicting interests, and the need for extensive legislative amendments. Nevertheless, with political will, public support, and the guidance of legal experts, Nigeria can overcome these obstacles and emerge as a beacon of progressive legal reform in Africa.

The Nigerian Senate’s decision to review the country’s archaic laws marks a watershed moment in the nation’s legal history. This bold step towards modernization and progress reflects Nigeria’s commitment to building a more equitable and future-oriented society. By embarking on this comprehensive legal reform, Nigeria has set itself on a path to strengthen the rule of law, protect human rights, and create an enabling environment for prosperity and social justice. As the review process unfolds, it is imperative for all stakeholders to actively participate and support this transformative endeavour, ensuring that Nigeria’s legal system evolves to meet the needs and aspirations of its people in the 21st century.

 

Source: Daily Post Nigeria

Jamaica Secures $30 Million from World Bank for STEM School and Enhanced Teaching Practices

Jamaica Secures $30 Million From World Bank For Stem School And Enhanced Teaching Practices

Jamaica’s government and the World Bank have entered into a significant agreement worth $30 million aimed at enhancing teaching practices, inclusivity, learning conditions, and decision-making processes within the country’s education system. The project intends to benefit approximately 150,000 secondary students, 6,000 teachers, school principals, Ministry of Education and Youth personnel, as well as education policymakers and practitioners.

One of the key aspects of the project is the establishment of a new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) secondary school, which will cater to around 2,400 students. At least half of the beneficiaries will be girls. The STEM school aims to address existing gaps, particularly for vulnerable students, including boys, residing in underserved areas where schools are currently operating beyond capacity.

While acknowledging Jamaica’s progress in education, challenges such as completion rates, inequity, and low student performance persist in secondary education. The World Bank’s Country Director for Caribbean countries, Lilia Burunciuc, stated that the new project seeks to strengthen the Jamaican education system by improving access for disadvantaged students and enhancing educational outcomes.

The project will also focus on equipping teachers with effective instructional practices to deliver the existing curriculum and enhancing the use of assessments to support student learning. Special attention will be given to the development of digital and socio-emotional skills within the classroom.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to human capital development, Nigel Clarke, Jamaica’s Minister of Finance and the Public Service, emphasised the importance of equitable access to quality education for the country’s growth and development. Minister Clarke expressed satisfaction in partnering with the World Bank on this crucial project, which is expected to significantly improve education outcomes.

Furthermore, the project will facilitate the creation of an efficient information system to enhance the management of the education system. This system will enable the implementation of targeted early intervention strategies aimed at improving student retention, with a specific focus on secondary education.

The $30 million loan, provided by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, was signed by Minister Nigel Clarke, Minister of Education and Youth Fayval Williams, and World Bank Country Director for Caribbean countries, Lilia Burunciuc. The collaboration between the Jamaican government and the World Bank underscores their joint commitment to addressing educational challenges and fostering an inclusive and high-quality education system in Jamaica.

South Africa’s Ports Suffer Severe Congestion, Disrupting Trade Routes

South Africa's Ports Suffer Severe Congestion, Disrupting Trade Routes

Durban and Cape Town ports in South Africa are facing a deepening crisis as congestion reaches unprecedented levels, causing significant delays and disruptions to trade routes. Reports indicate that Durban harbour is currently grappling with thousands of stranded containers aboard ships, exacerbating the congestion problem.

Transnet, the State-owned entity responsible for managing the country’s ports, revealed that over 60 ships are currently anchored at the Port of Durban, and it could take anywhere between seven to 15 weeks to clear this backlog. Of the 63 ships destined for Durban, 20 are intended to dock at the Durban Container Terminals (DCT) Pier 1 and Pier 2.

Transnet has taken proactive measures to address the mounting backlog and alleviate the crisis. The company announced on Friday that it expects Pier 1 to clear the backlog within seven weeks using various initiatives, while Pier 2 is projected to take 15 weeks or less. However, the challenges are not limited to Durban alone, as delays have also been reported at the Cape Town Port due to issues within Transnet.

Business Live reports that Cape Town is experiencing delays of up to 14 days in unloading cargo from docked ships. The Danish shipping conglomerate Maersk has decided to remove Cape Town as a port of call, opting to utilise Mauritius instead. Under the new arrangement, all cargo destined for Cape Town will be transhipped in Port Louis, Mauritius, and then transported in smaller shipments to the Cape. Outgoing cargo from Cape Town will undergo the same process.

Maersk further announced that, beginning in the first week of December, the Far East-West Africa (FEW2, FEW3, and FEW6) routes will have updated rotations. Additionally, a new feeder service called Cape Town Express will be introduced, connected to the updated SAFARI service. These changes aim to enhance reliability and transit time, ensuring seamless connections between the Far East and West Africa.

The ongoing delays in Durban and Cape Town are expected to have a significant impact on the upcoming festive season. As the situation develops, stakeholders in the shipping industry and businesses reliant on efficient port operations are closely monitoring the situation for further updates.

Please note that this is a developing story, and additional information may emerge in the coming days.

 

Source: IOL

President Bola Tinubu Urges German Investment in Nigerian Economy’s Key Sectors

President Bola Tinubu Urges German Investment In Nigerian Economy's Key Sectors

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has called for German investment in critical areas of the Nigerian economy, particularly in the fields of electricity and rail transportation. The president made this request during a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin on Monday, outside the G20 Compact with Africa Economic Conference.

In a statement released by the president’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu emphasised the need for German investment in growth-enabling sectors such as transportation, energy, and the generation, transmission, and distribution of electric power. He highlighted the importance of accelerating the implementation of the Presidential Power Initiative, backed by Siemens, which aims to address Nigeria’s power challenges.

Tinubu expressed his commitment to pursuing all aspects of the Siemens power project and emphasised the potential skill development opportunities for Nigerian youth in sustaining the industry. He also suggested that Siemens could contribute to Nigeria’s rail network by supplying cutting-edge trains and railroads, drawing inspiration from the company’s ongoing project in Egypt, where it is constructing a 2,000 km ultra-high-speed rail network spanning 60 towns.

In response, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his willingness to move forward with the investment proposals. However, he emphasised the importance of addressing financial and administrative obstacles resulting from governance issues within the sector.

During the meeting, Tinubu also raised the topic of value-added processing in Nigeria’s solid minerals, agriculture, automotive industry, and other job-generating sectors. He highlighted the potential for enhancing these sectors through German collaboration, further emphasising Nigeria’s commitment to economic growth and job creation.

The meeting between President Tinubu and Chancellor Scholz reflects the mutual interest in strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and Germany. As discussions continue, both countries aim to explore avenues for collaboration and investment that will drive sustainable economic development and benefit the people of Nigeria.

This development marks an important step forward in attracting foreign investment and fostering partnerships to promote economic growth and address key challenges facing Nigeria’s infrastructure and industrial sectors.

President Ruto Explores Employment Opportunities for Kenyans in Germany, Strengthening International Labour Agreements

President Ruto Explores Employment Opportunities For Kenyans In Germany, Strengthening International Labour Agreements

President William Ruto is currently in Germany on a mission to explore employment opportunities for Kenyan citizens in the European nation. This initiative comes in response to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s visit to Kenya in May, where he unveiled plans to welcome 250,000 Kenyan professionals, skilled laborers, and semi-skilled workers to address Germany’s significant labour needs.

Speaking to a congregation in Sotik, Bomet County, President Ruto highlighted the importance of international labour agreements and their role in combating the rising cost of living. He emphasized that youth employment is a crucial factor in achieving this goal and pledged to continue pursuing such agreements with various countries around the world.

President Ruto revealed that he is actively working with Labour Cabinet Secretary Florence Bore to establish bilateral labour agreements that would enable Kenya to send 3,000 workers abroad every week. The objective is to generate income for the country’s transformation and provide opportunities for Kenyan citizens.

While the president did not provide a specific timeline for the deployment of Kenyan workers under these agreements, he expressed his commitment to the cause. Addressing critics who questioned his frequent foreign trips, President Ruto stated that his travels are not for tourism but rather to work tirelessly for the welfare of Kenyans. He reiterated his understanding of the reasons he was elected to office.

In addition to his efforts in Germany, President Ruto recently announced that he had secured agreements with prominent American tech giants, including Amazon, Intel, and Google, during his US-Kenya roadshow in September. These agreements are expected to create thousands of digital job opportunities for Kenyan youth, contributing to the country’s economic growth. However, specific details regarding the number of jobs pledged by each corporation were not disclosed.

President Ruto’s initiatives to explore employment opportunities in Germany and forge international labour agreements demonstrate his commitment to addressing unemployment and improving the livelihoods of Kenyan citizens. These efforts are expected to create avenues for Kenyans to showcase their skills and contribute to the economies of both Germany and Kenya.

 

Source: Capital News

Global Summit in Nairobi Concludes with Divisions on Plastic Pollution Treaty

Global Summit In Nairobi Concludes With Divisions On Plastic Pollution Treaty

A week-long summit held at the United Nations Environment headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, focused on addressing the urgent issue of global plastic pollution, concluded on Sunday. With over 2,000 delegates in attendance, the discussions aimed to draft a binding treaty to combat the escalating problem of plastic pollution.

Last year, 175 countries committed to reaching a binding agreement by 2024 to address plastic pollution. The Nairobi meetings marked the third of five sessions planned to be completed by next year, with the goal of adopting the treaty in 2025.

However, as the summit came to a close, delegates remained divided on the substance of the treaty. Plastic pollution has become pervasive, affecting ecosystems from oceans to mountaintops, with production projected to triple by 2060. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) emphasized the need to focus on reducing plastic production rather than relying solely on recycling. They called for a 75% reduction in production by 2040. On the other hand, oil-producing countries and plastic industry lobbies, also represented at the summit, advocated for recycling and improved waste management.

UNEP executive director Inger Andersen stressed the importance of addressing the entire life cycle of plastics, from production to final disposal. She stated, “We cannot recycle our way out of this mess.” Nonetheless, a “low ambition coalition” composed of oil-producing nations such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain faced accusations from environmental groups of impeding progress in the negotiations.

Kenya, one of the 60 “high ambition” nations, called for binding rules to reduce plastic use and production. President William Ruto urged negotiators to make significant progress in the discussions, emphasizing the limited time remaining until the 2024 deadline and the importance of the upcoming meetings.

Following the conclusion of the Nairobi negotiations, the discussions will continue in April 2024 in Canada and conclude in South Korea later that year. The timing of these negotiations aligns with the upcoming COP 28 climate conference in the United Arab Emirates, which aims to address greenhouse gas emissions and support developing countries in dealing with the consequences of climate change.

The global summit in Nairobi highlighted the pressing need for a comprehensive and effective treaty to combat plastic pollution. While divisions remained on the approach to tackling the issue, the discussions served as a crucial platform for raising awareness and fostering international cooperation in finding solutions.

 

Source: Africa News

Air Peace Granted Approval for Direct Flights to Dubai as Emirates Airlines Plans Return to Nigeria

Air Peace Granted Approval For Direct Flights To Dubai As Emirates Airlines Plans Return To Nigeria

In a significant development for the aviation industry, the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has granted Air Peace, a Nigerian airline, the approval to operate direct flights to Dubai. The announcement was made by Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, who revealed that Emirates Airlines, which had previously suspended operations to Nigeria due to challenges repatriating earned dollars, also expressed its readiness to resume direct flights to the country.

During the recently concluded Dubai Airshow, the management of Emirates Airlines confirmed its intention to reinstate flight services to Nigeria. This news comes as a boost to the Nigerian aviation sector, as it signals the return of a major international airline to the country.

The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace’s Head of Press, Odutayo Oluseyi, issued a statement highlighting Minister Keyamo’s meeting with Airline Executive’s CEO, Dana Hatcic. Airline Executive expressed interest in establishing a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Nigeria, demonstrating confidence in the country’s aviation industry.

Furthermore, Minister Keyamo expressed his vision for organizing the inaugural Nigeria Air Show in November 2024, making Nigeria the first African country to host such an event. This will provide a platform for showcasing the nation’s aviation capabilities and attracting global participation.

During his visit to the Dubai Airshow, Minister Keyamo also explored the pavilions of leading aviation and aerospace companies. His objective was to examine cutting-edge technologies and modern infrastructure that could contribute to his 5-Point Agenda for Nigeria’s aviation industry. The agenda focuses on enhancing infrastructure, promoting innovation, and fostering creativity in civil aviation.

The Dubai Airshow, held from November 13 to November 17, 2023, witnessed the participation of numerous industry specialists from around the world. It served as a gathering point for aviation and aerospace experts, facilitating networking and the exchange of knowledge and ideas.

The approval for Air Peace to operate direct flights to Dubai and the readiness of Emirates Airlines to return to Nigeria mark positive developments for both countries’ aviation sectors. These initiatives are expected to enhance connectivity, boost trade and tourism, and further strengthen bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Nigeria.

 

Source: Vanguard