Category: Africa

Posted on

Ghana: President Mahama travels to Japan and Singapore

Source: APO


.

President John Dramani Mahama will undertake an official two-country visit to Japan and Singapore aimed at deepening bilateral relations, expanding trade and investment links, and advancing cooperation on shared development priorities.

In Japan, the President will attend the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IX), where he will make a presentation at a plenary session on the Economy: Promoting Trade and Investment.

President Mahama will deliver an address at a Ghana Presidential Investment Forum, showcasing Ghana’s investment opportunities and the Resetting Ghana agenda. He will also hold a series of bilateral meetings with key Japanese partners, including the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), senior representatives of the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), and the Prime Minister of Japan, Shigeru Ishiba, to discuss trade, investment, technical cooperation, and infrastructure partnerships.

Following his engagements in Japan, the President will undertake a three-day state visit to Singapore. The state visit will include a courtesy call on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a meeting with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, participation in the Africa-Singapore Business Forum, and an address at an investment forum to present Ghana’s reform and investment priorities and strengthen private-sector linkages between Ghana and Singapore-based investors.

The visits seek to attract investment, broaden market access for Ghanaian goods and services, mobilise technical and development cooperation, and bolster partnerships in technology, infrastructure, finance, and human capital development.

The President and his delegation will leave Accra on Sunday, 17 August 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

Posted on

Joint Statement of Condolence by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child on the Passing of Chief Theresa Kachindamoto

Source: APO


.

The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), together with the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC), extends its deepest condolences on the passing of Chief Theresa Kachindamoto on 13 August 2025.

Chief Kachindamoto was a pioneering female leader whose vision, courage, and moral conviction broke through cultural barriers and set a powerful example for the African continent and beyond. She took decisive action, annulling thousands of child marriages, challenging deeply entrenched norms and fiercely advocating for every child’s right to education. Her tireless commitment transformed the lives of countless children across Malawi, safeguarding their futures and restoring their dignity.

Through her innovative community engagement, working with families, leaders, and schools, she ensured that girls could remain in school, free from harmful practices, and able to embrace their childhoods without fear of forced marriage. It was this resolute stance that earned her the distinguished title of “Chief Terminator,” a name that will forever be remembered as a symbol of her strength, determination and love for her people.

Her influence extended far beyond her own community. Chief Kachindamoto inspired national reforms, influenced policy change, and sparked a global conversation about ending child marriage and advancing gender equality. Her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew her and in the global human rights community. Yet, her legacy endures in the children she rescued, the communities she transformed, and the generations she inspired to fight for justice, dignity, and equality.

To her family, friends, and all who mourn her loss, we extend our deepest sympathy. May her extraordinary life and unwavering mission continue to inspire collective action until every child in Africa and around the world is free from the scourge of harmful traditional practices.

Jointly Issued By

Hon. Wilson Almeida Adão 
Chairperson, African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child

Hon. Hermine Kembo Takam Gatsing
Special Rapporteur on Child Marriage and Other Harmful Practices, African Committee of Experts on the Rights  and Welfare of the Child

Hon. Vice-Chair Janet Ramatoulie Sallah-Njie
Vice-Chairperson and Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights

Hon. Commissioner Mudford Zachariah Mwandenga
Country Rapporteur of Malawi, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Right 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR).

Posted on

SAPS warns of increase of ATM-related scams

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape says it has noted with concern the increase in reports of ATM-related scams. 

“Criminals continue to target unsuspecting community members, particularly at busy cash points,” the South African Police Service said in a statement.

The public is urged to remain vigilant and exercise caution when using ATMs. 

The following safety guidelines are strongly recommended:

  • Always remain alert and aware of your surroundings before and after using an ATM.
  • Never disclose your card or PIN (Personal Identification Number) to anyone.
  • Do not write your PIN on your card or keep it with your card.
  • Insert your card only when prompted by the ATM screen.
  • Avoid using ATMs with blank screens or those in poorly lit or secluded areas.
  • Shield the keypad with your hand and body when entering your PIN.
  • Monitor the card slot closely to prevent skimming or card-swapping.
  • Do not accept assistance from strangers at ATMs.
  • Be cautious of individuals who attempt to distract you, as criminals often operate in groups.
  • If your card is retained by the ATM, immediately contact your bank’s toll-free stop-card line.
  • Never allow others to call the bank on your behalf, as this may be an attempt to defraud you.
  • Security personnel posted at ATMs are there to deter crime and are not authorised to assist with transactions.
  • For assistance, approach a bank official directly.
  • Consider setting a daily ATM withdrawal limit with your bank for added protection.

The SAPS also called on community members to report any suspicious behaviour or criminal activity by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or by using the MySAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Campaign to curb deaths at initiation schools in N West

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Oversight Coordinating Committee and the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC) will launch an awareness campaign about the provisions of the Customary Initiation Act (CIA) to prevent deaths at initiation schools in the North West. 

The campaign is set to launch on Thursday, 21 August 2025, at the Bahurutshe ba ga Moiloa Traditional Council in Dinokana. 

The goal of the initiative is to raise awareness about the importance of safe and lawful cultural practices. This includes educating people about the rights of initiates, as well as the roles of traditional leaders, parents, and initiation school principals.

According to the PICC, the campaign follows the mushrooming of illegal initiation schools during the past winter initiation season, which led to over 100 initiates being rescued and the tragic death of six initiates. 

The campaign aims to achieve zero deaths during initiation seasons and eliminate unnecessary fatalities through strict enforcement of the CIA, fostering collaboration between government, traditional leaders and communities.

The event will be attended by the Chairperson of the National Initiation Oversight Committee (NIOC), Ikosi Vembi William Mahlangu; the North West PICC Chairperson, Kgosi Godfrey Gasebone; the Chairperson of the North West House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Kgosi Thari Maotwe, traditional leaders and representatives from government departments.

Gasebone has thrown his weight behind the campaign and stated that the emergence of illegal initiation schools, especially those run by opportunists seeking financial gain, will never be tolerated.

“We call upon all traditional school principals to work with local traditional authorities, the department and the PICC to ensure compliance and approval of hosting initiation schools. If we all comply, this will go a long way in safeguarding the lives of our young people,” Gasebone said. 

The CIA aims to protect, promote, and regulate initiation practices. It also establishes acceptable norms and standards, oversees initiation processes, and coordinates structures for this purpose. 

In addition, the CIA focuses on the protection of life, the prevention of injuries, and the safeguarding of people from all forms of abuse. 

It also addresses the governance aspects of initiation, protects the traditional practice, and ensures that initiation is conducted in accordance with constitutional and legal requirements.

“As per the Act, no person must be forced or coerced into attending initiation school. No person under the age of 16 may attend initiation, and a person between 16 and 18 years may only attend after obtaining written consent letter from parents,” the PICC said.  

It announced that principals of initiation schools have until 3 October 2025 to apply for permission to operate schools during the summer initiation season. 

In addition, traditional surgeons must be at least 40 years old, have undergone initiation more than 10 years ago, and must have served as a mentor to others for a minimum of five years. – SAnews.gov.za 

Posted on

Sudão do Sul pode estar rumando para conflito étnico, diz alta funcionária da Nações Unidas (ONU)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

Em sessão do Conselho de Segurança, Martha Pobee afirmou que ganhos obtidos com Acordo de Paz estão se perdendo; bombardeios aéreos e operações terrestres estão em curso desde março; apelos por cessar-fogo não geraram resposta concreta.

A secretária-geral assistente para África, Martha Pobee, relatou ao Conselho de Segurança da ONU, nesta segunda-feira, que a os ganhos obtidos no processo de paz do Sudão do Sul estão sofrendo uma “erosão contínua”.

Ela afirmou que o país africano vive uma escalada da violência política e subnacional, com crescente perda de confiança entre as partes que assinaram em 2018 o Acordo de Paz Revitalizado. A implementação do processo se encontra agora estagnada.

Padrão de violações e ações unilaterais

As ofensivas militares envolvem principalmente a Força de Defesa do Povo do Sudão do Sul contra o Movimento de Libertação do Povo do Sudão.

Desde março, bombardeios aéreos e operações terrestres estão em curso, violando o Capítulo 2 do Acordo de Paz e resultando em mortes, deslocamentos e destruição de infraestrutura civil, incluindo hospitais e escolas.

A comunidade internacional, incluindo as Nações Unidas, a União Africana e a Autoridade Intergovernamental para o Desenvolvimento, Igad, apelaram diversas vezes por um cessar-fogo e o retorno ao diá..

Martha Pobee afirmou que esses apelos não geraram nenhuma resposta concreta. Em vez disso, persiste um “padrão de violações e ações unilaterais, que continuam prejudicando a capacidade do Governo de Unidade Nacional de implementar o Acordo”.

Conflito moldado por divisões étnicas

Ela alertou que a atual postura militar e as operações em andamento podem estimular mais violência e “exacerbar os conflitos intercomunitários”.

A alta funcionária da ONU enfatizou que se essa tendência continuar, provavelmente levará a uma mudança na dinâmica do conflito, “da violência subnacional e comunitária para um cenário mais complexo, moldado por divisões étnicas”.

Segundo ela, a disseminação contínua de informações falsas nas redes sociais pode inflamar ainda mais as tensões, destruindo a coesão e a coexistência pacífica dentro da jovem nação africana.

Eleições previstas para 2026

A secretária-geral assistente afirmou ainda que as atuais tensões políticas e de segurança, incluindo a prisão e detenção de figuras da oposição sem o devido processo legal, têm dificultado os esforços para concluir as tarefas ligadas à transição política.

Em particular a reforma do setor de segurança e os processos eleitorais e constitucionais.

Apesar disso, as autoridades governamentais têm expressado publicamente seu compromisso com a realização de eleições até dezembro de 2026.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UN News.

Posted on

Somalia: How Funding Gaps and Barriers Undermine Healthcare for Women and Children

Source: APO


.

When Aisha* began haemorrhaging, experiencing heavy, potentially life-threatening bleeding, just ten days after giving birth to twins at home in Diinsoor district, her family feared the worst. The hospital where she had safely delivered her previous children was no longer operational. With limited healthcare available in their community, her husband urgently borrowed money and drove five hours through the night to reach the MSF-supported Bay Regional Hospital in Baidoa, Somalia, one of the few facilities offering free, quality maternal and paediatric care. Medical teams quickly stabilised Aisha, successfully treating her severe bleeding.

Limited access to healthcare leads to patients arriving at hospitals with severe complications, sometimes resulting in preventable maternal and neonatal deaths. Insecurity, scarce healthcare services, and logistical challenges further hinder access to timely care. Cultural norms such as requiring male consent for surgical interventions add critical delays when immediate action is necessary. Furthermore, health-seeking behaviours present significant challenges.

Stories like Aisha’s* are all too common across Somalia’s Southwest State, where women and children often travel hundreds of kilometres seeking lifesaving medical care. Those unable to afford the journey face severe consequences.

Hawa, an 18-year-old mother of two, delivered her first child at age 16 at home with only relatives present. “We don’t have hospitals or doctors nearby,” she explains. After her second childbirth, she experienced serious complications, including swelling and cardiac issues. Determined, she travelled to Baidoa for treatment. Now recovering, Hawa voices a widespread hope: “We need a hospital in our area and doctors who can come to us.”

Multiple factors hinder access to care. Poverty, insecurity, distance, and cultural barriers all significantly delay treatment. Hassan, a 28-year-old father from Afurow village, tragically lost his wife during childbirth at home due to the absence of health facilities and skilled birth attendants. Left alone with a newborn son who soon fell critically ill, Hassan struggled helplessly. “He had diarrhoea and vomiting. Medicines from local pharmacies didn’t help,” Hassan recalls. After two months of deteriorating health, he learned of MSF’s free services in Baidoa. “I borrowed about $130 and travelled 150 kilometres to reach Baidoa hospital,” he explains. What began as a desperate situation has turned into hope, as his son receives essential treatment and nutritional care.

MSF has been supporting Bay Regional Hospital since 2017, providing emergency obstetric, neonatal, paediatric, and nutritional care. In 2024 alone, MSF treated over 14,000 children for malnutrition, conducted more than 38,000 paediatric consultations, assisted over 2,800 births, and carried out approximately 35,000 reproductive health consultations, all free of charge. Yet despite these efforts, the region’s maternal and child health situation remains critical, especially after the recent funding cut.s

The suspension of USAID funding has led to the closure of at least 37 health and nutrition sites in both rural and urban areas around Baidoa. Consequently, patient numbers at remaining facilities like Bay Regional Hospital have surged, overwhelming an already fragile healthcare system.

From January to June 2025, MSF teams at Bay Regional Hospital treated 11,894 malnourished children, an increase of 76 per cent compared to the same period last year. This significant surge in malnutrition admissions, along with rising cases of maternal health complications, underscores the urgent need for sustainable and efficient funding to restore and expand essential services, especially in underserved rural communities.

Families frequently delay seeking medical assistance until conditions worsen, often relying initially on traditional healers. Misconceptions surrounding vaccinations, such as beliefs linking them to infertility or other illnesses, further limit access to preventive care. Continuous health education and community engagement are essential to building trust in medical services and encouraging timely care-seeking.

“Maternal and neonatal deaths can be prevented by ensuring pregnant women have timely access to care closer to home. Too often, patients reach us in critical condition simply because healthcare isn’t available nearby,” says Dr. Pitchou Kayembe, MSF’s Head of Program in Somalia.

Dr. Kayembe emphasises that while MSF continues delivering lifesaving care, broader systemic support is vital: “The scale of the need demands sustained, long-term investment and strategic support across Somalia. We urge donors and humanitarian partners to prioritize expanding primary and emergency maternal and paediatric healthcare, particularly in remote areas.”

Inside Bay Regional Hospital’s busy wards, newborns take their first breaths under skilled supervision, malnourished children gradually regain health, and frightened mothers find relief and hope. As Dr. Kayembe concludes, “It’s not just about responding to immediate crises. It’s about ensuring families survive, recover, and rebuild their lives starting with dignified, quality healthcare for all.”

*All patient names have been changed to protect privacy.

For over four decades, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) teams have been providing medical and humanitarian care to the Somali people across the Horn of Africa. In Somalia, MSF continues to respond to the medical needs of people displaced by ongoing conflict and extreme weather events, and to support services in Ministry of Health facilities. A significant part of our work focuses on capacity building and specialised training for healthcare staff, improving the quality of healthcare, rehabilitating hospitals, enhancing water, sanitation and hygiene services, and conducting health education sessions to ensure infection prevention and control in health facilities. MSF is currently running medical activities in two locations: Baidoa, Bay Region (Southwest State), and Galkayo North (Puntland State) and Galkayo South (Galmudug State). 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Médecins sans frontières (MSF).

Posted on

Thank You Message From the President and Government of Ghana

Source: APO


.

The President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and the government wish to express their sincere gratitude to the people of Ghana, our chiefs, clergy, Muslim clerics, civil society, the diplomatic community, political leaders, security chiefs, service personnel, and all others who have offered support, condolences, and comfort in the aftermath of the tragic helicopter crash of 6 August that claimed eight lives.

We are deeply moved by the outpouring of solidarity shown across the nation and beyond. Your messages of sympathy, your attendance at the state funeral, your practical assistance, and the many acts of kindness extended to the bereaved families have provided great consolation in this time of sorrow.

We especially thank those who worked tirelessly and the corporate organisations that supported to ensure that the victims were accorded a dignified and befitting Ghanaian burial — a fitting farewell that honours their memory and reflects the compassion of our people.

Further to the conclusion of the state funeral and the burial of all eight victims, the Chief of Staff directs that flags at all public buildings be restored to full mast with immediate effect. We make this decision mindful of our collective grief and the honour we have paid to those we have lost.

As we return to the duties of #ResettingGhana and building the Ghana we want, let us remain united in prayer, comfort one another, and continue to support the families affected by this tragedy.

May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

Posted on

Humanitários em Moçambique mostram resiliência em meio a desastres

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

Agências recordam apoio humanitário aos moçambicanos em crises e acidentes naturais; ciclones Idai, Freddy e Chido são os mais marcantes para funcionários da ONU no país africano. 

A ONU assinala o Dia Mundial dos Trabalhador Humanitário neste 19 de agosto.

Moçambique, como outros países, enfrenta desafios com corte de verbas e aumento da urgência de uma resposta rápida e eficaz no auxílio humanitário.

Compaixão é chave

Jemina Manhiça faz parte da equipe do Programa Mundial de Alimentação, WFP, desde 2019, atualmente trabalha no distrito de Chemba, na província de Sofala.

Ela atuou em várias missões onde prestou apoio humanitário para salvar vidas.

Ser trabalhadora humanitária é abrir mão de certas coisas na vida em detrimento de ajudar o próximo. Para ela, é preciso ter compaixão, e se doar para ver o bem das pessoas.

Pomares após ciclone

Em conversa com a ONU News em Maputo, a propósito do Dia Mundial do Trabalhador Humanitário, ela citou com emoção a experiência após o ciclone Ida.

“Havia famílias que tinham perdido vontade de recomeçar as suas vidas, de ser resilientes, lá eu fui sensibilizando, dando maior apoio e as pessoas foram retomando as suas atividades fazendo o mais comum, a agricultura… fizeram alguns pomares que até hoje estas coisas estão lá, as pessoas ainda estão a usar e sempre que alguém vai para lá, perguntam por mim, onde está aquela senhora que nos levantou, nós que já não tínhamos vontade, e hoje estamos aqui, sabemos que temos que fazer por nós…se nós não fizermos ninguém fará.”

Sonho realizado

Atualmente, Jemina Manhiça sente-se realizada.

O ciclone Idai atingiu Moçambique e os vizinhos Malawi e Zimbabué, em março de 2019, destruindo estradas, pontes, hospitais, escolas, casas e plantações.

Especialistas citam um dos piores desastres naturais no Hemisfério Sul. Em Moçambique, o epicentro foi a província de Sofala.

Ventos fortes e  abrigo

Em situações de crise, as agências das Nações Unidas e parceiros têm apoiado o governo na intervenção para obtenção de uma resposta rápida e eficaz.

O especialista de emergência do Unicef em Moçambique, Cláudio Julaia, também participou em várias missões humanitárias (2019-2025), contudo optou por narrar a passagem do ciclone Freddy que destruiu quase tudo na província da Zambézia.

“O ciclone Freddy foi marcante por causa da intensidade dos ventos que se fizeram sentir e também a intensidade da chuva que o ciclone trouxe e afetou particularmente a população, mas especificamente as crianças…porque um dos impactos diretos foi a destruição parcial e total das casas destas famílias que se encontravam já numa situação vulnerável. Isso obrigou-lhes a se abrigarem em centros de abrigo temporário, muitos deles eram escolas.”

Investimento salva vidas

O especialista de emergência do Unicef apela o investimento na familiarização do risco e na questão do aviso prévio, o que poderá ajudar a salvar vidas.

“É importante que as mensagens difundidas e disseminadas através de vários canais tenham que ser mensagens assertivas para que permitam que a população assim como as crianças que recebam estas mensagens saibam o que fazer. …e isso vai ajudar bastante, primeiro a salvar vidas, mas também a se prepararem melhor. A questão de reposicionamento de meios e bens em locais estratégicos e de difícil acesso para que possam permitir uma resposta mais adequada e assertiva.”

No âmbito da reconstrução pós ciclones ou crises climáticas, o Programa das Nações Unidas para os Assentamentos Humanos, ONU-Habitat, desempenha um papel crucial na reconstrução resiliente de comunidades, com foco em infraestruturas de saúde, escolas e habitação.

Padrões de resiliência

Edson Pereira é o Chefe do Subescritório para região norte da ONU-Habitat em Moçambique. A agência apoia na transição para o desenvolvimento, recuperação rápida das comunidades, com os meios e conhecimento que tem.

A sua experiência destaca a visita efetuada após a passagem do ciclone Chido que devastou as províncias de Cabo Delgado, Nampula e Niassa.

“Vimos muitas das escolas que foram construídas com aquelas medidas de resiliência que ONU-Habitat apoiou ao governo a alcançar, aquele tipo de intervenção teve um impacto positivo a nível das comunidades, serviram de abrigo pós desastre, mas também serviu para apoiar outros serviços, como  por exemplo serviço da saúde para funcionar durante a emergência, conseguimos ver a Escola Primária de Natuco em Mecufi em que serviu de um abrigo pós ciclone para as comunidades, mas também serviu como centro de distribuição de alimentos para própria comunidade.”

Resiliência e segurança

Em Moçambique, o ONU-Habitat também implementou projetos para melhorar a segurança e a resiliência das habitações, reduzindo a vulnerabilidade das comunidades locais a ciclones e outros desastres.

O governo moçambicano, através do Instituto Nacional de Gestão e Redução do Risco de Desastres, Ingd, lançou em abril do corrente ano, o Plano de Ação Nacional para a operacionalização da Política e Estratégia de Gestão de Deslocados Internos, Pegdi, a ser executado ao longo dos próximos cinco anos.

O Dia Mundial dos Trabalhadores Humanitários foi criado pela ONU em homenagem a 22 funcionários da organização mortos num ataque terrorista em Bagdá, em 19 de agosto de 2003. Dentre os mortos, estava o chefe da Missão, o brasileiro Sérgio Vieira de Mello.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UN News.

Posted on

A breastfeeding space at World Health Organization (WHO) Uganda country office: Upholding every woman and baby’s right to breastfeed anytime, anywhere

Source: APO


.

Invest in breastfeeding, invest in the future!

Breastfeeding isn’t just a personal choice—it’s a public health investment. Breast milk nurtures stronger immune systems, reduces childhood illnesses and supports lifelong health, that reduces burdens on health systems. By supporting breastfeeding at work, we are building healthier families, communities, and workforces.

At the World Health Organization (WHO) Uganda country office, we believe that supporting working mothers is not just a policy—it’s a promise. In line with global health recommendations from WHO and UNICEF, we proudly introduce a dedicated breastfeeding space for staff and visitors, designed to promote optimal infant nutrition and maternal wellbeing.

“The breastfeeding room is a small gesture with a big impact here at the country office. It shows that our workplace truly cares about family-friendly policies.” said Mr Christopher Chikombero, the operations officer at WHO Uganda. 

Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding up to two years, is a cornerstone of child health. Yet for many working mothers, balancing this with professional responsibilities is a daily challenge. Our breastfeeding space offers a private, quiet, comfortable, and hygienic environment for mothers to express and store breast milk or breastfeed during the workday—reducing stress, enhancing comfort, and supporting both mother and child. 

“Having a dedicated breastfeeding room at office is such an incredible resource.  It’s a quiet, clean, and private space where I can express milk comfortably. It helps me balance work and motherhood without stress.” said Dr Solome Okware, surveillance officer at WHO Uganda. 

No woman should have to choose between her career and her child’s health. Breastfeeding support is possible in every workplace, across all sectors and contract types. By creating this safe and nurturing environment for mothers and their babies, WHO Uganda joins the global movement to ensure that breastfeeding and work, work. 

“Returning to work after maternity leave was smoother because I knew I had a safe space to continue breastfeeding. As a working mother, I feel seen, valued and supported,”  said Ms Maria Mugisa, logistics assistant at WHO Uganda.

At WHO Uganda, we recognize that empowering women through breastfeeding support is not just a workplace initiative—it’s a commitment to health equity, gender inclusion, and sustainable development. The breastfeeding space is more than a room—it’s a reflection of our values, a catalyst for change, and a step toward a healthier, more compassionate future for all.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization – Uganda.

Posted on

Guiné-Bissau abre Centro de Telemedicina com apoio financeiro da Nações Unidas (ONU)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

OMS quer Governo crie linha orçamental para operacionalizar infraestrutura; Advocacia da Agência da ONU inclui extensão do centro a outros hospitais de referência regionais; Presidente do país dirigiu cerimónia de inauguração. 

O Sistema das Nações Unidas e o Governo da Guiné-Bissau inauguraram o Centro de Telemedicina e Saúde Eletrónica nas instalações do Hospital Nacional Simão Medes em Bissau.

Outra infraestrutura foi instalada no Centro de Saúde de Bubaque, zona insular do país.

Financiamento Conjunto
O projeto fez uma combinação de infraestruturas, tecnologias e reforço de capacidades para levar os cuidados médicos especializados para perto dos guineenses.

A concretização foi possível graças a um financiamento conjunto do Fundo Mundial e o Programa das Nações Unidas para o Desenvolvimento, Pnud.

O investimento inclui a manutenção e a renovação dos espaços, compra de equipamentos modernos de consultas a distância e compra e instalação de material áudio visual e de vídeo conferencia. Além disso, serão adquiridos computadores, equipamentos de escritório, energia solar e internet.

No ato solene, o representante da Organização Mundial da Saúde, OMS, falou em nome do Sistema das Nações Unidas, sobre o momento de um ponto de viragem histórica no reforço da capacidade de resposta e inovação do sistema de saúde da Guiné-Bissau.

Walter Kazadi Mulombo explica que graças a este avanço, se espera reduzir a longa lista de espera para as evacuações médicas ao estrangeiro, permitindo que consultas especializadas sejam realizadas no país ou com apoio a distância de especialistas internacionais.

Otimizar o serviço
São 50 profissionais de saúde, clínicos gerais, especialistas, enfermeiras e enfermeiros na utilização da tecnologia de telemedicina para a realização de consultas e seguimentos clínicos. A ação da OMS visa garantir a utilização eficaz da infraestrutura.

A agência conta apoiar o centro a estabelecer acordos com outros centros de telemedicina, sobretudo com os paises lusófonos para garantir uma assistência a distância nas especialidades pouco desenvolvidas no país.

O representante da OMS reafirmou o engajamento em continuar a trabalhar com o Governo e parceiros para melhorar a prestação dos cuidados de saúde na Guiné-Bissau e acelerar o percurso em direção ao acesso universal, que é a redinamização dos Cuidados Primários de Saúde.

Barómetro e Mapa Sanitário
Mulombo lembrou que estes cuidados são custosos para serem deixados apenas com o inistério da Saúde. Segundo ele, todos os setores da economia devem colaborar e o seu reposicionamento pode descongestionar os hospitais e permitir com que as pessoas beneficiem do desenvolvimento sustentável.

Disse acreditar que o país está bem equipado para vencer os desafios e realizar os objetivos de acesso sanitário universal até 2030.

Comunidades
Na ocasião, o presidente da Guiné-Bissau recebeu da agência o Mapa Sanitário que faz o diagóstico sobre o acesso aos serviços e cuidados de saúde e os recursos disponíveis no país.

A OMS equipou também o país de um Barómetro que mede a perceção e expetativa das comunidades com relação ao desempenho do setor sanitário.

A agência entregou também ao Governo 16 viaturas para reforçar o sistema nacional de saúde e apoiar a Rede Integrada de Ambulâncias, coordenada pela Cruz Vermelha.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UN News.