For women in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), nowhere is safe from sexual violence

Source: APO

Every week, hundreds of victims and survivors of sexual violence seek care at health centres supported by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In 2024 alone, nearly 40,000 women were treated by MSF teams in North Kivu province — a record high. In January 2025, M23/Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) forces – backed by Rwanda – took control of Goma, the provincial capital and home to over a million people, after years of fighting against the Congolese army and allied armed groups. Since then, the prevalence of sexual violence has shown no signs of decreasing.

During the first week of the offensive, hospitals rapidly became overwhelmed by a surge in casualties, both military and civilian. Morgues filled quickly as the Congolese army and its allies retreated, allowing M23/AFC to take over as the new authorities in the city. Heightened insecurity, increased crime and rampant violence became the new normal.

MSF teams continue to record alarming levels of sexual violence cases. Between January and April, more than 7,400 victims and survivors of sexual violence received treatment at Ministry of Health facilities supported by MSF in Goma. West of the city, in Saké, an additional 2,400 victims and survivors were treated during the same period. 

Sexual violence remains prevalent under the new order

Throughout the week, female victims and survivors of sexual violence, of all ages, can be found gathering from early in the morning at health centres where MSF works in Goma. They need healing, support, and to be heard. Nasha* was among many patients to visit in May. Like many of the women, her life has been turned upside down by persistent conflict in North Kivu. 

Originally from Masisi, a territory to the west of Goma, she fled ahead of clashes in the province between 2021-2024. They moved to a displaced persons camp alongside some 650,000 others on the edge of Goma. But in February 2025, the M23/AFC armed group ordered the dismantling of camps, effectively forcing their residents to leave.  

Large numbers are unable to return to their area of origin because they lack the resources to do so, or because their lands have been seized. This has led many to seek refuge with host families or in low-cost housing in Goma and the surrounding suburbs.  

“I lived in the Rusayo displaced persons camp,” says Nasha. “After it was destroyed, we moved to the courtyard of a school where we built a shelter.”  

“Armed men broke in one evening at 10:30 pm,” she continues. “They attacked me. When my husband tried to protect me, they shot him dead.” 

Nasha’s story is far from unique in Goma and its outskirts. Every day, before nightfall, women travel to the city from the neighbouring territory of Nyiragongo in a bid to stay safe – too often in vain. Attacks on shelters, whether on small plots of land, rooms rented out by Goma residents, or public places, are frequent.

“In recent years, most rapes happened during daily activities – particularly when women left the displaced persons’ camps to search for firewood or to engage in small-scale trading activities,” explains Armelle Gbagbo, who runs women’s health activities for MSF.  

“Today, many attacks happen at sites where women are living – whether in a house or in a refuge – and particularly during the night when insecurity increases,” says Gbagbo. “They are attacked wherever: in their homes, with their families, alone, in the streets of Goma, or during outings on the edge of town.”  

Nowhere is safe. Denisa*, a minor, is originally from Rutshuru. She fled with her family to Goma amid the M23/AFC advance deeper into North Kivu a few months ago. In April, armed men broke into their home.

“They were wearing military uniforms and came to steal from us,” says Denisa. “I was with my dad, my brothers and my little sisters. The men ordered my family to leave and raped me.” 

Not all sexual violence is committed by armed men, in military uniform or otherwise. Many assaults are also committed by those closest to the victims themselves.

“We shouldn’t discount the very significant proportion of sexual violence committed by family members, other members of the survivors’ entourage, or within host families,” says Gbagbo.

Exploiting vulnerabilities

“The people of Goma have been gripped by fear since the city was taken,” says Frédéric Germain, MSF’s project coordinator. “There is significant insecurity in the city.”  

“Many criminals commit attacks, rapes and murders by night. A high availability of weapons mean that bandits and armed groups pose a constant threat,” says Germain. “The economy is slowing down, and the population is facing a system of violent predation.” 

Sarah* also recently visited one of the health centres in Goma. Her husband was recently kidnapped by men armed with rifles and machetes, who stormed into the small house where she and her family were staying after the camps were dismantled.

“It was a few weeks ago and I haven’t had news since,” says Sarah.

Others around her recounted stories of killings, looting, kidnapping, and similar forced disappearances of fathers and brothers.

A recent study by Epicentre, MSF’s epidemiological research centre, highlights a surge in violence in Goma, with the number of violent incidents reported in the first six months of this year being more than five times higher than in 2024. [1]

“The proportion of violent deaths recorded in this study is very high, representing one in four deaths,” says explained Dr Brahima Touré, an epidemiologist working with Epicentre. “Incidents of physical violence and verbal threats are also occurring in large numbers, as testified by the number of people witnessing such events.”

“The results show high levels of sexual violence, which are likely to be significantly underestimated given that in this kind of study on violence, survivors find it difficult to speak out,” says Dr Touré.

Targeted support, immense needs

The offensive on Goma led many civil society figures to flee, with several humanitarian organisations working to support sexual violence survivors and victims also leaving, in part due to the impact of American budget cuts.

“In Goma, we are practically the only association providing health services to these women,” says Germain. “But the needs are immense.”  

After being attacked in May, Angélica*, didn’t confide in friends or family.

“I was ashamed,” says Angélica. “I didn’t know where to find help, so I stayed at home. After five days, I went to look for medicinal leaves to heal myself.”

“I felt very bad and had pain in my stomach,” she continues. “I met a community health officer who directed me to the CCLK health centre where MSF offers free care.” 

Among the victims and survivors seen by MSF, close to 20 per cent are unable to seek medical attention within 72 hours of being attacked. This is a critical window during which the administration of post-exposure prophylaxis medication can significantly reduce the likelihood of contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

“There is a high percentage of women suffering from STDs,” says Gbagbo. “This is also linked to the phenomenon of gang rapes or the practice of trading sex to survive.”

“Many women say they are sexually exploited by the people housing them in exchange for food or a roof over their head,” she says.

Congolese women are also suffering the consequences of the dismantling of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) under the administration of Donald Trump. An order of 100,000 post-rape kits – which include medication for preventing infection from HIV and other STDs – that were set to be distributed to multiple organisations treating sexual violence victims and survivors in eastern DRC was cancelled this year, with catastrophic consequences. 

“In May, the United Nations Population Fund in North Kivu, which helped sexual violence survivors with support from USAID, only had 2,500 emergency kits for the entire province, while thousands of women are attacked every month,” says Gbagbo.

Sexual violence is not limited to Goma or its suburbs. Victims and survivors travel dozens of kilometres to seek treatment in the city.

“It is essential that other international partners step up to support these women,” says Germain. “Thousands are in need of urgent medical assistance.” 

*Names have been changed to protect the identity of patients. 


[1] Study conducted by Epicentre on the monitoring of the oral cholera vaccination strategy and its impacts through repeated multi-indicator surveys in the city of Goma and the rural area of Bukama, including a retrospective mortality survey for the period from 31 March 2024 to 11 June 2025. 

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

Media files

.

Tanzania Secures US$25 Million from the Pandemic Fund to Strengthen Health Security and Pandemic Preparedness

Source: APO


.

The United Republic of Tanzania has been awarded a significant grant of US$25 million from the Pandemic Fund to enhance its national health security and pandemic preparedness capacities. In addition to this core funding, the initiative has successfully mobilized US$7 million in co-investment and US$6.7 million in co-financing, bringing together strong technical and financial partnerships.

The project is being implemented through the collaborative efforts of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO), which serve as the three designated Implementing Entities. Together, they will provide coordinated support across human, animal, and environmental health systems in alignment with the One Health approach.

Tanzania, which comprises both Mainland and Zanzibar, continues to enjoy steady economic growth, driven in part by its abundant natural resources and vibrant tourism sector. However, this growth is accompanied by increased risks, particularly zoonotic and cross-border disease transmission due to high population movement and porous borders. Despite a strong commitment by the government to the International Health Regulations (IHR), the country still faces critical challenges in disease detection, specimen referral systems, laboratory capacity, biosafety, and early warning functions.

In response, the new project aligns closely with Tanzania’s National Action Plan for Health Security. It aims to reduce the impact of future epidemics and pandemics by addressing system-level gaps while ensuring that the needs of vulnerable and marginalized populations, including the elderly and persons with disabilities, are fully integrated into planning and implementation.

The Ministry of Health is spearheading the project in close coordination with the President’s Office Regional Administration and Local Government, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries. Implementation will also involve a broad coalition of national and international partners.

Each implementing entity contributes distinct technical strengths. FAO supports animal health planning and implementation, UNICEF leads on risk communication and community engagement, and WHO supports the strengthening of human health systems and emergency readiness.

By 2027, Tanzania aims to have an integrated, functional disease surveillance and response system capable of effectively monitoring, confirming, and responding to epidemic and pandemic threats. With this investment, the country is not only reinforcing its ability to protect the health of its citizens but also contributing meaningfully to regional and global health security.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization – United Republic of Tanzania.

Chad charts new course with Circular Economy Roadmap backed by African Development Bank

Source: APO

Chad, a Sahelian nation often associated with climate and humanitarian emergencies, is now joining Africa’s circular economy movement. Backed by the African Development Bank’s Circular Economy Facility (ACEF) (www.AfDB.org), the country has just adopted a national roadmap for the circular economy.  

Through this plan, which is rooted in the “Vision 2030” national development plan, Chad is not just recycling; it is rethinking growth. For years, informal collectors in N’Djamena have asked a familiar question: “Do you have any bottles?” The collectors gather and resell reusable waste at low prices, unwittingly perpetuating a circular economy model driven by necessity. Today, this popular practice is being scaled up, structured, and integrated into national policy, with the official publication, on 9 July 2025, of the Roadmap for the Circular Economy 2025–2035. The document promotes practices that have been largely overlooked and places them within a structured framework with governance, financing, and quantified targets. 

“This initiative is not a luxury, but rather a vital necessity for the future of Chad,” said Hassan Bakhit Djamous, Chad’s Minister for the Environment. “It’s about conserving our natural resources, fighting pollution, creating sustainable jobs, and supporting local innovation. It also offers us a path to diversify an economy still heavily reliant on oil.” 

In a country where more than 3.7 million people face food insecurity, post-harvest losses exceed 200,000 tons per year, and fewer than 12 per cent of citizens have access to electricity, the roadmap offers tangible solutions: turning agricultural losses into compost, producing biogas from animal waste, and reusing wastewater for irrigation.  

Chad’s strategy is part of a broader regional push supported by the ACEF, in partnership with the African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA). Supported by three pillars – strengthening policy frameworks, supporting circular entrepreneurship, and consolidating continental cooperation – ACEF’s actions enable countries to anchor the circular economy as a structural lever for green and inclusive growth. Alongside Chad, countries like Benin, Cameroon, and Ethiopia are implementing their own circular economy roadmaps under the National Circular Economy Roadmaps (NCER) initiative, adapted to national priorities. 

The Chadian plan outlines bold targets: reducing non-recycled waste by 40 per cent by 2035, creating more than 25,000 green jobs, and raising access to electricity to meet the African median through biomass and organic waste recovery, among other circular solutions. 

Six priority sectors anchor the plan: agri-food, waste, plastics, construction, water, and energy. These are further broken down into 30 targeted initiatives, including the development of “circular farms” modeled on Benin’s Songhai Center, the integration of sustainable materials into construction standards, and the establishment of youth-led plastic recycling ventures. 

In N’Djamena, one such venture – Karo, founded by Ghislain Bindah Dingaotabet, is already bringing the roadmap to life. The company collects more than seven tons of plastic waste annually and has recycled 15 tons into eco-friendly bricks. Karo is also piloting biogas production from plant and animal waste in rural areas.  

“We are a team of innovative and committed young people, ready to put our energy at the disposal of the country,” said Dingaotabet. “We just need to be given the means to turn our ideas into reality.” 

Driven by a new generation of entrepreneurs, NGOs, and public institutions, this circular transition is now supported by strong governance. Two national workshops have helped structure the process, and a specialised technical committee is steering implementation alongside technical and financial partners. 

Through its roadmap, Chad is transforming its vulnerabilities into levers for action. It is leveraging circularity as a tool for sovereignty and a path towards a future grounded in African realities.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media files

.

The 3 rd conference on peace and development for the horn of Africa opens at Four Points hotel, Kampala

Source: APO


.

The Conference in an initiative of the People’s Republic of China and brings together regional countries in the Horn of Africa—Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda. Also participating are delegations from the United Nations, International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the East African Community (EAC).

The Conference was officially opened by Hon. John Mulimba, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (Regional Affairs). He thanked the Government of the People’s Republic of China for the strong cooperation with Africa to promote peace and sustainable development, through the Global Security Initiative which has contributed meaningfully to the international discourse on collective security. He appreciated China’s approach to regional peace and development which focuses on dialogue, respect for national sovereignty and comprehensive approaches to conflict.

H.E. Mr. Xue Bing, China’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Affairs, represented the Government of the People’s Republic of China and thanked the Government of Uganda for hosting the Conference. He reiterated China’s commitment to actively engage with regional countries in various initiatives that promote peace and development. He said
China will continue to strengthen cooperation with Africa in areas such as military assistance and trade, counter-terrorism, landmines eradication and military personnel training to jointly maintain security and stability in the region.

Mr. Xue Bing said China’s engagement with the region on peace and development will be anchored on three pillars: first, the need to uphold dialogue for peace and safeguard universal security; secondly, the need to explore the potential for cooperation and realize common prosperity; and third, the need to deepen exchange of experience in governance and safeguard international justice and fairness.

Recognizing the role of economic cooperation in promoting peace and development, China is ready to negotiate and sign the Agreement on China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development. China will also expand the zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines to 53 African countries. China will also encourage more Chinese Enterprises to invest in the region, increase the added value of their products and localization to boost economies and create jobs.

During the Conference, delegates will review the achievements of FOCAC and discuss related issues such as connectivity and infrastructure; development cooperation and industrial development; climate resilience and food security’ as well as multilateralism and global governance.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Republic of Uganda – Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Swearing-In Ceremony for Four Members of the Electoral Commission

Source: APO


.

A formal swearing-in ceremony took place this morning at State House for four newly appointed members of the Electoral Commission of Seychelles. Their appointment follows the conclusion of the term of office for four outgoing members on 27th July 2025.

In light of 2025 being an election year – and in a bid to ensure uninterrupted operations of the Commission – the Constitutional Appointments Authority initiated the recruitment process as early as March 2025, publicly advertising the vacant positions to facilitate a smooth transition.

Four members – two of whom have been re-appointed and two newly appointed – were officially sworn in before the President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan, in accordance with Article 115 of the Constitution. Their appointments were made following recommendations put forward by the Constitutional Appointments Authority (CAA).

The  four Electoral Commissioners sworn in this morning included;

• · Mrs. Jenny Adrienne (being re-appointed)

• · Mr. Patrick Hoareau (being re-appointed)

• · Mr. Steve Pointe  (new member)

· Dr. Bernard Monnaie (new member)

The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan, presided over the ceremony and formally addressed the newly sworn-in members following the administration of the oath of allegiance and oath of office. In his remarks, President Ramkalawan extended his congratulations to the Commissioners and underscored the pivotal role of the Electoral Commission in safeguarding the democratic foundations of the nation. He urged the appointees to uphold the highest standards of impartiality, transparency, and professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

The Electoral Commission plays a central role in ensuring the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections in Seychelles – an essential pillar in maintaining public confidence in the democratic process.

As Head of State, President Ramkalawan further underscored the importance of the Commission’s independence, noting that its members are not appointed by the President. Instead, the selection process is managed by the Constitutional Appointments Authority which issues public calls for applications, conducts interviews, and submits a comprehensive report with recommendations unanimously endorsed by all members of the Authority.

Also in attendance for the ceremony at State House were the First Lady, Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan; Vice President, Mr. Ahmed Afif; Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Roger Mancienne; Attorney General, Mr Vincent Perera, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ted Barbe; Chief of Defence Forces, Major General Michael Rosette, the Directory General SIS, Mr Benediste Hoareau, Members of the Constitutional Appointments Authority, Members of the Electoral Commission and other distinguished guests.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

Seychelles: Outgoing Egyptian Ambassador Pays Farewell Courtesy Call on President Ramkalawan

Source: APO


.

The outgoing Non-Resident Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the Republic of Seychelles H.E. Mr. Wael M. Nasr Eldin M. Attiya, paid a farewell courtesy call on the President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan, this morning at State House.

President Ramkalawan extended his appreciation to Ambassador Khalil for his dedication and efforts in strengthening the longstanding relations between Seychelles and Egypt during his tenure. He commended the Ambassador for his active role in promoting bilateral cooperation in key areas of mutual interest, including education, health, and capacity building.

“I would like to thank you for your commendable efforts in strengthening the Bilateral relationship between Seychelles and the Arab Republic of Egypt. During your tenure, you have worked closely with various Seychelles Ministries to deepen our bonds of friendship, understanding, and cooperation in key areas of shared interest. I am confident that your successor will continue in your footsteps to ensure continuity and conclusion of the various avenues of cooperation,” said President Ramkalawan.  

The Head of State also expressed Seychelles’ commitment to further deepening the strong ties between the two countries and conveyed his best wishes to Ambassador Khalil in his future endeavours.

Ambassador Attiya, for his part, thanked the Government and people of Seychelles for the warm hospitality and cooperation extended to him throughout his mission. He reaffirmed Egypt’s continued support for Seychelles and expressed confidence in the continued growth of the Seychelles-Egypt partnership.

The meeting concluded with the exchange of tokens of appreciation and a commitment to continued collaboration between the two nations.

Ambassador, Attiya also paid a visit the Vice- President, Mr Ahmed Afif before departing State House.

Also present for the meeting were the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Vivianne Fock-Tave and Second Secretary Bilateral Affairs Division, Mr Davis Mathiot as well as the Political Officer, Mr Mohamed Eletreby.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

Committee welcomes arrests in firearms trafficking syndicate 

Source: Government of South Africa

Committee welcomes arrests in firearms trafficking syndicate 

Gauteng’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has welcomed the arrest of two suspects believed to be part of a sophisticated firearms trafficking syndicate operating in Gauteng and other provinces.

The suspects were apprehended on Monday, 28 July 2025, in Meyersdal, Johannesburg, during a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation led by a multi-disciplinary task team.

READ | Anti-kidnapping task force intercepts unlicensed firearms

“The Committee commends the swift and collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, including private security partners, whose actions not only led to a major seizure, but also disrupted the flow of illegal weapons that continue to fuel violent crime in our communities,” it said in a statement on Tuesday.

During the operation, police recovered 30 unlicensed 9mm firearms reportedly destined for the Western Cape.

Preliminary investigations have linked the suspects to a series of serious crimes committed in both Gauteng and the Western Cape. They are currently in custody and face multiple charges, including the illegal possession and trafficking of unlicensed firearms.

“Unlicensed and illegal firearms are not merely tools of violence; they are enablers of organised crime, murder, armed robbery, gender-based violence, and gang-related activities. Their widespread availability undermines public safety, erodes trust in law enforcement, and perpetuates cycles of violence and impunity.”

The Committee said it is concerned about the role illegal firearms play in high-profile and serial crimes. 

“A notable example is the weapon used in the 2022 murder of popular musician DJ Sumbody and his two bodyguards, which was later linked to at least 10 other murder cases across Gauteng and other provinces. This case illustrates the devastating impact of illegal firearms and the urgent need to dismantle the networks that distribute them.”

The committee said the arrest and seizure marks a critical milestone in the fight against organised crime and the illegal arms trade. 

“The Committee views this operation as a decisive step toward preventing further criminal acts that could have resulted from the circulation of these weapons. In light of this breakthrough, the Committee reiterates its unwavering support for the call toward a Gun-Free South Africa.”

It further urged citizens to actively participate in efforts to rid communities of illegal firearms by surrendering unused, unlicensed, and unwanted guns to the relevant authorities. 

“A safer society begins with collective action and shared responsibility,” it said. – SAnews.gov.za 

Neo

103 views

Negotiations of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus M.Ryzhenkov with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia

Source: APO

On July 29, 2025 the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus, Maxim Ryzhenkov, met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Gedion Timothewos, who is paying a working visit to Belarus.

This is the first visit to our country of the Head of the Ethiopian Foreign Ministry.

During the talks, the directions of the entire complex of the Belarusian-Ethiopian agenda were discussed with an emphasis on the practical implementation of previously reached agreements at various levels.

Mutual interest was expressed in increasing bilateral trade and cooperation in the field of food security, expanding humanitarian and cultural ties.

The parties agreed to take practical steps to launch joint projects in the areas of mechanization of the agricultural sector of Ethiopia using Belarusian equipment and technologies, educating personnel for its maintenance and training agricultural specialists in Belarusian institutions, technology transfer in agriculture, and the development of a legal framework.

A schedule of bilateral events between Belarus and Ethiopia until the end of 2025 was agreed, including inter-ministerial political consultations, the creation of intergovernmental commission, negotiations between relevant ministries and business circles.

The desire of Minsk and Addis Ababa to deepen the political dialogue, as well as further interaction and mutual support within the UN, BRICS and other multilateral platforms was confirmed.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus.

Media files

.

Empowering African Women from the Start: Integrating Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Prevention into the First Bonds of Life

Source: APO


.

Each year, Pan-African Women’s Day (PAWD) reminds us of the enduring legacy, resilience, and leadership of African women. However, as we celebrate, we must also confront a lingering truth: far too many pregnant and breastfeeding women in Africa are still left behind in HIV prevention efforts. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are not merely recipients of care, they are architects of community wellbeing, leaders within households and societies, and central to the intergenerational health equity we must pursue.

The theme for PAWD 2025, “Advancing Social and Economic Justice for African Women through Reparations”, reminds us of the critical need to address systemic social and economic inequalities hindering women’s empowerment and advancement. PAWD 2025 coincides with the World Breastfeeding Week 2025, themed Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems.” Therefore, we are also called to translate that legacy into concrete action for the next generation, starting from pregnancy and the earliest days of life. This year, we call for an intentional shift to integrate HIV prevention, including PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT), and Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) into the broader maternal and child health ecosystem. Doing so is not only scientifically sound; it is a moral and human rights imperative, and a step toward redressing historic injustices through maternal health equity.

A Gendered Lens on HIV Prevention

The African Union Commission (AUC) has long championed the rights of African women and girls. AU frameworks, including the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol), the AU Strategy for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, and the Catalytic Framework to End AIDS, TB, and Malaria by 2030, guarantees equitable and affordable access to HIV prevention and treatment services. Nonetheless, gender inequality continues to drive HIV vulnerability, especially among adolescent girls, young women, and mothers. On a continent where women bear the brunt of both unpaid care work and HIV infections, we must place pregnant and breastfeeding women at the heart of HIV prevention strategies.

Pan-African Women’s Day is more than a celebration; it is a policy moment. We should use this occasion to strengthen the link between reproductive health, HIV prevention, and gender equity. In our communities, we have witnessed firsthand ways midwives and frontline workers can transform maternal care when equipped with the tools, training, and trust to do so. We need to reimagine HIV prevention not as a siloed programme, but as a foundational component of respectful, comprehensive, gender-responsive maternal health.

Breastfeeding as a Health Justice Issue

The 2025 World Breastfeeding Week theme urges us to prioritise breastfeeding through sustainable systems- systems that must also prioritise the health and HIV status of the mother and child. Offering long-acting PrEP like CAB-LA, ensuring routine HIV testing during antenatal care, and integrating EID into immunisation schedules are essential to building that system. This is how we ensure that breastfeeding is not only a biological bond, but also a protective, empowering act, free of fear, stigma, or silence. Sustainable breastfeeding support must include comprehensive maternal diagnostics and wraparound care. Let us also ensure that every woman is met with dignity, discretion, and informed choice — whether through access to long-acting PrEP, timely testing, or compassionate postpartum support.

A United African Response

We must elevate community engagement, involve Traditional and Religious leaders, and support healthcare workers who are often themselves women and the first and sometimes only line of care for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Pan-African leadership on all levels, from governments to grassroots, must ensure that every mother has access to life-saving HIV prevention tools. Transforming outcomes for mothers and babies requires systems change, built on multisectoral partnerships. From ministries to midwives, from labs to legislatures, we must align our investments with our aspirations, for a future where no woman is left behind.

The AUC Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate and Africa REACH Leadership Council stand together to say: African women should live, lead, and breastfeed without the shadow of HIV. As we celebrate Pan-African Women’s Day and Breastfeeding Week, let us continue to advocate for and implement policies that lead to health emancipation. May we renew our collective resolve to ensure that African women can live, lead, and nourish the next generation, in health, in dignity, and in freedom from HIV.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

Alexa News Nigeria (Alexa.ng) provides engaging news around the world to Nigeria’s political and media space

Source: APO

Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) is a forward-thinking media platform dedicated to providing insightful, engaging content across various topics, including business insights, technology trends, innovation, and more. Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) aims to inspire and inform its audience through high-quality journalism and community-driven initiatives.We are a fiercely independent, pro-investigation multi-media online news platform based in Nigeria, and focused primarily on politics, policy and economy.

We are passionate, not just about the nice details, but also the ugly sides that speak truth to governments, businesses, and leaders, both locally and globally. We resolve to relentlessly pursue truth in our passion to inform and empower Nigerians.

Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) is a Nigerian digital news platform that provides accurate, relevant, and up-to-date information on a daily basis. The independent, pro-investigation multi-media online news platform focused primarily on politics, policy and economy. Jokpeme Joseph Omode, the editor in chief and CEO of Alexa News Nigeria is expanding its coverage beyond Nigerian borders and have been growing its official website’s news and media portfolio. www.Alexa.ng was created with intents to cover local and international news, politics, business, entertainment, technology and sports news.

“We are looking to make a significant impact on the country’s information narrative by bringing smart, straightforward news to Nigeria’s political and media space, with commentary from political heavyweights and Nigerian leaders & business innovators, whose collective insight will be instrumental in telling the Nigeria business story from inside,” says Joseph Omode.

In an industry saturated with sensational sites, clickbait giants, fake news merchants, religious/ethnic promoters, and pro/anti-government platforms, Alexa News Nigeria has stood out as a credible go-to news source for every southerner, northerner, Christian, Muslim, Pagan, anti-government/pro-government individual, secessionist, and its growing global audience. Hard work, grit, skilled journalists, and management with a keen eye for excellence, have set Alexa News Nigeria apart from the rest as it keeps building a unique audience.Joseph Omode later stated that the news platform would be tailored to meet the needs of an increasingly diversified readership base both in Nigeria and outside the shores of the country. Alexa News Nigeria is providing quality journalism, had defied the odds, broke boundaries, pulled down walls, and divided oceans.

What Makes Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) Unique (And Worth Betting On)

We are unique in different ways and we stand out for the following reasons:

  • Prominence: Our Stories involve influential figures, like celebrities, businesses, influencers or politicians, often attract our media attention due to a collective public interest that has built up for decades on those individuals’ lives.
  • Impactful Stories: Our stories demonstrate value and make clear effect on our audience. We are always looking for fresh stories to cover.We sometimes rely on product launches or major milestones to attract our media attention. Through thought leadership, organizations don’t have to wait for a newsworthy event to be in the media. They can earn media recognition for their brands and executives by staying on top of industry trends to be better seen as visionaries, rather than vendors.
  • Relevant Stories: We publish relevant stories of interest to our audience.
  • Human Interest: Our news are meant to evoke strong emotions or connect with people on a personal level. They can range from heartwarming tales–such as a firefighter saving a kitten stuck in a tree–to accounts of adversity such as a family struggling to rebuild after losing their home to a natural disaster. These stories often inspire empathy and compassion, reminding audiences of a shared sense of humanity.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Alexa News Nigeria.

Media files

.