Category: Africa

Source: APO – Report:

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The rising cost of agricultural inputs especially inorganic fertilizers, is one of the issues impeding production among small holder farmers in Malawi, therefore affecting food security. Due to land degradation, farmers who cannot afford inorganic fertilizer often harvest barely enough food for household consumption.

In response to the problem, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is implementing the Land Use Planning and Sustainable Land and Water Management for Improved Agricultural Productivity project, funded by the Government of Flanders. Under this project, FAO is promoting the use of low-cost sustainable land and water management practices such as production of organo-mineral fertilizers such as Mbeya, which is a homemade organic fertilizer made from locally available raw materials and a small amount of inorganic fertilizer.

Maganizo Lukhere hails from Mzimba district and is one of the farmers who adopted the use of Mbeya fertilizer. He gives a comparison of his family’s livelihood before and after adopting the low-cost agricultural technologies being promoted by FAO.

“Four years ago, we used to harvest 10 to 13 fifty kilograms bags of maize from a one-acre piece of land. The maize was never enough to sustain our family of eight until the next harvest. Since we started making and using Mbeya fertilizer, we harvest about 40 fifty kilograms bags of maize on the same piece of land,” said Maganizo.

He has since obtained another piece of wetland where he grows maize throughout the year under irrigation, using residual moisture, and uses Mbeya fertilizer and other low-cost soil and water management practices. “We are about to harvest this year’s crop, but we still have maize left over from last year’s harvest. In our household, lean months are a thing of the past. We have eliminated hunger,” said Maganizo.

For farmers in the community, Mbeya fertilizer is easy and cheaper to make. The ingredients required to make one 50 kg bag of Mbeya fertilizer are 21 kg of maize bran, 10 kg of pig dung, 10 kg of inorganic fertilizers, 10 kg of ash and 5 litres of water. One 50kg bag of mineral fertilizer produces five 50kg bags of Mbeya fertilizer.

Along with using Mbeya fertilizer, Maganizo has adopted other low-cost techniques that FAO promotes such as mulching, zero tillage, planting vetiver grass around maize fields and constructing swales for water harvesting. These techniques preserve soil moisture, reduce soil erosion and improve soil composition.

“A lot of small holder farmers are resource poor, and the cost of technology is one of the factors they consider before adoption,” said Harvey Nyirongo, Agriculture Extension Officer for Chasato section in Mzimba. He said now that more farmers are making and using Mbeya fertilizer, the community is more food secure.

– on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

Source: APO – Report:

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The Commission of Culture and Sports organized a seminar on cultural heritage and identity for over 150 members of traditional dance and music groups from the Southern Region on 18 August in Asmara.

At the seminar, Dr. Tsegay Medin, head of Archaeological Heritage Research at the Commission, gave a detailed briefing on the meaning and significance of culture, the tangible and intangible aspects of cultural heritage, and the role of heritage in consolidating national identity.

Highlighting the importance of cultural heritage in preserving identity, understanding the current situation, and envisioning the future, Dr. Tsegay said that archaeological findings from the prehistoric and historic eras, including the period of kingdoms and colonialism, have made a significant contribution to nurturing national identity.

Dr. Tsegay further stated that the Commission of Culture and Sports is making strong efforts in research, conservation, and transmission of cultural heritage. He noted, however, that ongoing damage and destruction of heritage sites remain the main challenges.

The participants held extensive discussions on the issues raised during the seminar and adopted several recommendations. These included intensifying efforts to repatriate heritage items held abroad and addressing the damage caused to ancient buildings under the pretext of renovation.

Lt. Col. Samuel Tsegay, head of Administration and Finance at the Commission of Culture and Sports, and Mr. Abraham Yohannes, Director General of Culture and Sports in the Southern Region, emphasized the significance of the seminar and called for its continuation.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

Source: APO – Report:

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Sierra Leone has taken an important step in strengthening its public health system by hosting a two-week national workshop on DNA sequencing and bioinformatics from August 4 to August 15, 2025 in Freetown. The training, held under the theme “From Genome to Action: Enhancing Mpox Surveillance through Sequencing and Bioinformatics in Sierra Leone,” was supported by the World Health Organization (WHO). It focused on building the country’s capacity to track and understand diseases through genomic science, with mpox as a key focus, but also extending to other infectious diseases.

The training served as a mentorship program for 16 young scientists, 15 of whom had already received foundational genomics training with WHO support. This advanced phase transitioned them to mid-level genomic experts capable of sophisticated data analysis and interpretation to inform real-time public health interventions. The sessions were practical and hands-on, covering:

• DNA sequencing: learning how to read and understand genetic material using Illumina platforms.

• Bioinformatics analysis: interpreting genetic information to see how diseases spread and change.

• Data stewardship: submitting results to international databases to support global knowledge.

• Outbreak analytic: turning genetic information into actions that help control outbreaks.

The comprehensive program went beyond mpox, also covering diseases like Ebola, COVID-19, Lassa fever, HIV, and antimicrobial resistance. It also introduced broader tools that allow scientists to study different types of pathogens at once.  Already, the Central Public Health Reference Laboratory (CPHRL) is applying these skills in HIV-2 research. “This is mentorship in motion. We’re growing future genomic leaders from within,” said Doris Harding, Laboratory Lead at the National Public Health Agency (NPHA).

As of August 18, 2025, Sierra Leone had sequenced 10.1% (522 out of 5,154) of its confirmed mpox cases, meeting both national and continental targets of 8–10%. This progress shows how far the country has come, but also highlights the need to maintain momentum. By training participants from start to finish – sample collection to reporting, the workshop not only boosted mpox surveillance but also set the stage for sustainable genomic monitoring systems. “This is sustainability in action – building resilient systems by empowering the laboratory pillar,” emphasized Dr. Ameh George, WHO Representative to Sierra Leone.

Participants shared how the training had impacted them: “We are deeply grateful for this investment in capacity building. The opportunity has not only enriched our professional knowledge but has also given us confidence to contribute meaningfully to research and health systems,” said Abu Bakarr Sawaneh from Connaught lab. Vidalyn Folorunso, a Medical Laboratory Scientific Officer from CPHRL added, “Let us keep practicing, applying the knowledge gained, and making good use of it in our institutions.”

Allan Campbell, CPHRL Lead & DNA Sequencing Training Lead, highlighted the lasting benefits: “This mentorship-driven model not only meets today’s needs but also builds a pipeline of future genomic experts. By empowering local scientists with the ability to lead using data and speed, Sierra Leone is strengthening its role in regional and global health security—whether in Mpox, HIV, cancer, antimicrobial resistance, or Ebola.”

Walter Oguta, WHO AFRO EPI Analytics Specialist & Bioinformatics Training Lead, underscored the bigger picture: “The workshop was a pivotal step in embedding genomic science into Sierra Leone’s health system. By training a new generation of scientists, the country is now better positioned to respond to outbreaks with data-driven precision.”

The August 2025 workshop stands as a milestone in Sierra Leone’s public health journey. By combining mentorship, advanced training, and a focus on sustainability, it has built a new generation of scientists ready to lead the country’s response to present and future health threats. This effort marks the beginning of a stronger, data-driven foundation for health security in Sierra Leone.

– on behalf of World Health Organization – Sierra Leone.

Source: APO – Report:

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The Ministry of Health (MOH), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with the support of the European Union, will hold a national training session on August 20 at the Journalist Training Center (CEFOJOR) dedicated to the role of the media in managing public health crises. 

The initiative will bring together journalists, institutional communicators, and strategic partners to reflect on the challenges of public health in Angola and reinforce the fundamental role of communication in saving lives, promoting healthy behaviors, and combating misinformation. 

This meeting marks the beginning of a joint effort to create the Health Communication Network in Angola, a collaborative platform that aims to strengthen the link between the media, health authorities, and international partners, promoting a more effective and coordinated response to health emergencies. 

In a context where Angola faces persistent challenges such as maternal and infant mortality, epidemic outbreaks, and the impacts of climate change, clear, accessible, and fact-based communication becomes a fundamental pillar of public health. The right information at the right time can make the difference between risk and protection, between doubt and confidence. 

The training will have around 60 participants, including professionals from public and private organizations, international correspondents, and institutional communicators. The program will include practical sessions, debates, and the sharing of tools to improve the quality and accountability of journalistic coverage of health issues. 

Through this initiative, the partners reaffirm their commitment to a more informed, healthier Angola that is better prepared to face current and future health challenges. 

– on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Angola.

Source: APO – Report:

Found as a newborn by a vet in Kenya and adopted by a family from the UK, 31-year-old occupational therapist Becky Chaplin has come full circle. Today, she leads rehabilitation service on board the Global Mercy™, the world’s largest purpose-built civilian hospital ship operated by international charity Mercy Ships (MercyShips.org).

Becky’s story is one of resilience, identity, and service. Found abandoned and still attached to her umbilical cord, she was saved by a passing veterinarian and adopted at 7 weeks old by a British missionary couple.

“Mum said when she picked me up, she felt God was saying ‘this is your daughter,’” Becky said with a proud smile. “I’m Kenyan by birth but British by adoption.”

Raised between Kenya and the UK, she embraces her dual heritage and uses her unique perspective to bridge cultures in her work.

“Living in Kenya, I saw both sides,” she shared. “I was exposed to extreme poverty and the opportunities you can have with education. I was fortunate to be adopted into a family that gave me that opportunity.”

She received her early education in both countries, experiencing two school systems. At 10 years old, her family moved to the UK, where she continued her studies.

“I think I’ve got both cultures in me. I can relate to more than one group of people from different cultures.”

That awareness fueled her decision to become an occupational therapist. After working in UK hospitals, including in burn and hand therapy, Becky felt called to volunteer her skills abroad. In 2023, she joined Mercy Ships for a three-month sabbatical in Senegal.

“I absolutely loved it. I loved being back in an African country with people that look like me,” she said.

Today, as Rehabilitation Team Leader aboard the Global Mercy, Becky is part of a multinational volunteer crew providing free surgeries and medical training to help strengthen local healthcare systems. She leads post-operational rehabilitation for patients recovering from life-changing procedures; many of whom are children with server burns or congenital conditions.

Many patients have left a lasting impression on Becky. One of them is a 10-year-old girl from Senegal who had a contracture. “She made me work hard to disguise all the exercises within games,” said Becky. “So, we painted, drew, and stuck things up on the wall. That was impactful because it wasn’t easy. But there was a joy and satisfaction when we were able to get the movements that we wanted.”

As the Global Mercy embarks on its next chapter in Sierra Leone, Becky’s story embodies the mission of Mercy Ships, to bring hope and healing where it’s needed most.

To anyone contemplating service with Mercy Ships, Becky’s advice is simple: “If you want something that’s enriching, pushes you, and grows you, then it’s for you. You’re not just giving, you also learn a lot and receive a lot. I’d say, just step out in faith and you won’t be disappointed.”

– on behalf of Mercy Ships.

For more information about Mercy Ships, contact:
Email: International.media@mercyships.org   

ABOUT MERCY SHIPS:    

Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with nations in Africa for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact. Each year, more than 2,500 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.