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In a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing mpox outbreak response and genomic surveillance capacity, the Central Public Health Reference Laboratory (CPHRL) in Freetown hosted the mpox Genomics and Bioinformatics training workshop  from 23rd – 27th June 2025. The event was organized under the theme: “Strengthening Genomic Surveillance Capacity for mpox Response in Sierra Leone,” with technical and financial support from the World Health Organization (WHO AFRO and WHO Sierra Leone).  The training program targeted 15 participants, including laboratory scientists, public health professionals, and epidemiologists from across Sierra Leone.

Despite reporting over 4,400 confirmed cases of mpox as of 27th June 2025, Sierra Leone has performed genomic characterization on only approximately 2.5% of these cases (108 sequences), representing a significant limitation in understanding viral evolution and informing targeted public health interventions. Currently, these genomic data are deposited in international repositories such as Pathoplexus, GISAID, and NCBI Virus; however, the disparity between outbreak detection and genomic data generation hampers real-time surveillance efforts. 

The Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS) and the Sierra Leone National Public Health Agency (SLNPHA) of Sierra Leone have prioritized strengthening genomic surveillance to enable rapid outbreak detection, track viral transmission, and inform policy decisions. Allan Campbell, Laboratory Lead at CPHRL, emphasized the significance of this training, stating, “This marks a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s national response to mpox. 

The initiative addresses the substantial bioinformatics capacity gap and establishes a foundation for sustainable genomic surveillance that can directly inform public health actions.” The workshop aligns with the objectives outlined in the WHO African Region (AFRO) Joint Continental mpox Response Plan 2.0, focusing on intensification, integration, and establishing a sustainable legacy in genomic epidemiology.

The week-long workshop employed a multidisciplinary, hands-on approach combining didactic instruction, practical exercises, and group data analysis. The curriculum included:

• Day 1: Introduction to genomic surveillance principles, sequencing technologies, and foundational bioinformatics tools such as Linux and Conda environments.

• Day 2: Emphasis on sequencing data quality control (FastQC, MultiQC), read trimming (Fastp, Hostile), and genome assembly techniques utilizing reference-based (BWA, Cutadapt) and de novo (SPAdes) approaches.

• Day 3: Variant detection and analysis (SAMtools, FreeBayes, Snippy), consensus sequence generation (Bcftools), and genome annotation (SnpEff, VEP).

• Day 4: Phylogenetic analysis, clade classification (Nextclade, Nextstrain), and visualization using platforms such as GISAID, Pathoplexus, NCBI Virus, Microreact, iTOL, and Galaxy.

• Day 5: Integration of all components through a case study simulating mpox outbreak response, culminating in data interpretation and strategic planning.

Walter Oguta, WHO AFRO EPI Analytics Specialist and the Lead Bioinformatics Trainer, underscored the practical value of the training, stating, “Translating genomic data into actionable public health strategies is the ultimate goal. Our aim was to equip participants with both technical proficiency and confidence to utilize these tools effectively.”

Doris Harding, Laboratory Pillar Lead at the SLNPHA, highlighted the broader implications: “Strengthening our capacity for genomic surveillance is no longer optional—it is essential. This initiative empowers our scientists to respond more effectively to mpox and other emerging pathogens.” Similarly, Jonathan Greene, WHO Sierra Leone Laboratory Lead, articulated the importance of workforce development, asserting, “Building a skilled, locally capable workforce is central to WHO’s strategy for resilient health systems. The use of genomics is transforming outbreak intelligence, enabling a shift from reactive to proactive responses.” 

Dr. Ameh George, WHO Representative in Sierra Leone, emphasized the strategic importance of institutionalizing genomic surveillance: “Genomics is redefining outbreak science. Sierra Leone must lead in generating and utilizing genomic data to inform policy and strengthen global health security. WHO remains committed to supporting this transformation.”

Participants and stakeholders concurred that this training initiative constitutes a long-term investment in Sierra Leone’s epidemic preparedness, response and resilience. By decentralizing sequencing capabilities and integrating genomic data into national decision-making processes, the program aspires to support regional efforts for early detection and rapid response to outbreaks.

The workshop concluded with the issuance of certificates of completion and a networking session aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in public health genomics. As Sierra Leone advances its surveillance infrastructure, the overarching goal remains to elevate genomic data from an underutilized resource to a central element of outbreak response and epidemic intelligence, thereby strengthening national and regional health security.

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

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His Majesty King Mohammed VI sent a message of congratulations to President of the Democratic Republic of Congo Félix Tshisekedi, on the occasion of his country’s national day.

In the message, the Sovereign expresses His congratulations to President Tshisekedi and His wishes for the happiness and prosperity of the Congolese people.

“I am also pleased to assure you of My firm willingness to work with Your Excellency to reinforce the excellent relations of fraternity and friendship between Morocco and the Congo, within the framework of a dynamic and lasting cooperation, mutually beneficial to our two peoples and to our Continent as a whole”, HM the King writes in this message.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

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In an expression of strengthened partnership and renewed commitment to multilateralism, the WHO Botswana Country Office recently hosted two high-level courtesy calls from newly appointed UN leaders, Ms. Wenyan Yang, the UN Resident Coordinator in Botswana, and Ms. Nthisana Motsete-Phillips, Botswana’s incoming Permanent Representative to Switzerland and the United Nations in Geneva.

Ms. Wenyan Yang’s visit formed part of her introductory engagements with UN agencies in Botswana. She was warmly welcomed by the WHO team and WHO Representative Dr. Fabian Ndenzako. During the meeting, Ms. Yang shared her vision of fostering collaboration, innovation, and collective impact within the UN Country Team, stressing the need for creative and integrated approaches amid global financial constraints. “We must find new and more effective ways of working together leveraging our collective strengths to deliver real, measurable change for the people of Botswana,” said Ms. Yang.

With over 30 years of experience in the UN system, she reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with agencies to deliver results that positively impact the lives of Batswana. Dr. Ndenzako briefed her on WHO’s key areas of support, highlighting national health priorities such as the transition of primary healthcare to local government, the rollout of national health insurance, and the strengthening of health sector coordination. He acknowledged the country’s achievements in areas like HIV control and maternal health, while noting ongoing challenges in achieving universal health coverage and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Welcoming Ms. Yang’s leadership, Dr. Ndenzako emphasized her crucial role in advocating for stronger coordination within the UN system and aligning support to accelerate Botswana’s national development agenda.

Meanwhile, WHO Botswana also engaged with Ms. Nthisana Motsete-Phillips as she prepares to assume office in Geneva. Her visit focused on strengthening the relationship between Geneva-based multilateral platforms and in-country implementation. Dr. Ndenzako lauded Botswana’s active voice within the Africa Group and other global health fora and highlighted the critical role of WHO Botswana’s Geneva liaison in bridging global and national priorities. He also drew attention to ongoing global shifts, including shrinking donor budgets, institutional restructuring, and declining development financing, all of which demand strategic engagement by countries like Botswana in global health diplomacy.

Ms. Motsete-Phillips expressed her intention to serve as a practical and results-oriented bridge between Geneva and national stakeholders. “We must ensure that what is discussed and committed to in Geneva translates into impact on the ground. It is my responsibility to help make that connection real for Botswana,” she said. With a background in the private sector and several years of experience in Switzerland, she pledged to help translate global commitments into tangible, on-the-ground outcomes. She underscored the need for closer coordination between Botswana’s Geneva mission and local UN country teams to ensure coherent policy implementation.

She also raised concerns about inefficiencies within public institutions and emphasized the importance of accountability and strong follow-through, particularly in managing partnerships and national programmes. Noting the complexity of agendas such as universal health coverage, she called for more realistic and transparent communication strategies. Additionally, she expressed interest in strengthening collaboration with institutions such as the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI). Challenging the prevailing classification of Botswana as a middle-income country, Ms. Motsete-Phillips warned that this status often excludes the country from much-needed support. She called for a renewed and nuanced narrative that reflects Botswana’s current realities and development needs.

Both visits underscored a shared commitment to deepening collaboration, improving coordination at all levels, and ensuring Botswana’s continued active role in shaping and implementing global health and development priorities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO), Botswana.

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“Any citizen of sound mind, who is 18 and above, has the right to register and vote in this country’s elections,” stated George Lemi Yata.

Mr. Yata is the Spokesperson of South Sudan’s National Elections Commission (NEC), the body charged with overseeing the implementation of this long-awaited electioneering process.

He was speaking at a lecture for some 400 students drawn from four universities in the capital city, Juba, including  Starford International University, Upper Nile University, Catholic University, and the University of Juba.

In response, participating students had animated discussions: Many contended that it was vital to conduct elections within the prescribed timeframe—currently, December 2026—while others raised questions on the feasibility of holding a credible electoral process without first actioning a national population census and drafting a permanent constitution.

For his part, Spokesperson Yata, advised youth to embrace their individual roles and responsibilities in building a more peaceful, prosperous future for all South Sudanese.

“Some 70 percent of South Sudan’s population is under the age of 30,” said Mr. Yata. “The country relies on you to provide energy and dynamism as it prepares to head to the polls. There are opportunities available for each of you to be actively involved: You can join political parties, support campaigns, help enhance civic and voter education, as well as act as electoral observers during polling, ballot counting and tallying of votes.”

Adrew Makuei, a student reading International Relations says he is ready. “I want to exercise my right to vote and choose leaders I have faith in. But I also realise that there’s much more to be done before we head to the ballot boxes, such as raising awareness among our communities about the role every citizen has to play,” he said.

Monica Nyandeng, another student, agreed.

“I’m going to help educate my peers about the Revitalized Peace Agreement, and, of course on why we all need to contribute to a peaceful electoral process,” she stated.

For his part, Guy Gabriel, the communications advisor for the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), which oversees, monitors, and evaluates the implementation of the peace agreement, highlighted that a stable peace and security situation is essential for elections.

“Urgent action is needed to rekindle the peace process,” stated Mr. Gabriel. “it’s vital that  all political detainees are released, reunification of forces is prioritized and Parties to the Revitalized Agreement  desist from unilateral actions.”

RJMEC wasn’t alone in urging key political players to uphold the peace agreement in letter and spirit. Patrick Oyet, the Chair of the Union of Journalists in South Sudan(UJOSS) and member of the National Constitutional Review Commission, emphasized the importance of the constitution-making process.

“It’s important to have a constitution because it provides the framework for power structures, guarantees human rights for everyone and sets up laws for the country,” Mr. Oyet said, stressing the need for progress in this regard.

These real time political challenges are made even more cogent with ongoing regional insecurity, an economic crisis and climate shocks such as floods, explained Grace Maina, a Political Affairs Officer, working with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

“The reason we are bringing you, as young people, together to speak about these issues is because this is your country and your voices matter. So, the more well-informed you are about current affairs, the more you can influence public opinion—in your families, in your neighborhoods and your communities,” she added. “For us, as UNMISS, we stand with this country and its people in their quest for a better, more democratic future.”

This is an ongoing series of dialogues supported by the UN Peacekeeping mission, RJMEC and Come Let’s Read Initiative, a civil society organization. The next lecture will take place at The Catholic University on Friday, 27 June 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

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The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, extends his warmest congratulations to the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Somalia on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of their independence.

The Chairperson recalled that this historic day stands as a proud testament to the unity, resilience, and determination of the Somali people, who on 1 July 1960 came together in pursuit of sovereignty, dignity, and self-determination. The journey since has been marked by courage, perseverance, and a commitment to building a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Somalia.

“As you commemorate this important milestone, I pay tribute to the generations of Somalis whose sacrifices made this day possible. I reaffirm the African Union’s enduring solidarity with Somalia as you continue to advance your national priorities,” said the Chairperson.
May this Independence Day renew the spirit of unity among the Somali people and inspire a new generation to carry forward the legacy of those whose vision and bravery secured independence.

Happy Independence Day to the Federal Republic of Somalia.

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

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The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, extends warm congratulations and best wishes to the government and people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as they celebrate their 65th Independence Day.

This historic occasion marks the liberation of the Congolese people from colonial rule and the birth of a sovereign nation with immense potential. The DRC’s rich cultural heritage, vast natural resources, and resilient people remain a cornerstone of Africa’s development and unity.

As we celebrate this milestone, we commend the DRC’s efforts in promoting peace, stability, and regional integration. The African Union remains committed to supporting the DRC in its pursuit of sustainable development, democratic governance, and the well-being of its people.

As you celebrate this day, may the spirit of patriotism and Pan-Africanism guide the nation toward a brighter future.

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

Preamble

We, the Heads of Arab Coordination Group (ACG) Institutions, convening in Seville during the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), reaffirm our collective commitment to delivering agile, equitable, and forward-looking development finance solutions. As we celebrate 50 years of action, we draw strength from our legacy while looking ahead to make bold and transformative contributions to the global financing landscape.

FfD4 convenes at a time of unprecedented and intersecting crises: widening development finance gaps, intensifying climate shocks, rising debt distress, persistent fragility, and an international financial system that remains inequitable and fragmented.

While FfD4 has highlighted important challenges and ambitions, the path to meaningful reform remains uncertain—especially concerning climate finance, mainstreaming private capital, and recognizing the strategic role of ACG institutions.

We Commit To:

1. Strengthening ACG’s Role in Global Finance Architecture

• Advocate for the institutionalized inclusion of ACG institutions as permanent stakeholders in global governance, financing mechanisms, policy forums, and debt platforms.
• Ensure that regional priorities and realities are reflected in the follow-up and outcome reporting of FfD4.

2. Scaling Up Climate-Resilient Development Finance

• Expand collective financing for adaptation, resilient infrastructure, and cross-border climate initiatives in agriculture, water, energy, and transport.
• Support new climate finance tools, including green Sukuk and blended adaptation facilities.

3. Supporting Fragile and Conflict-Affected States

• Enhance early recovery and reconstruction financing using area-based, community-led models that support stabilization and local institution-building.
• Engage in innovative partnerships to provide financial protection and resilience tools for vulnerable populations.
• Prioritize financing models which recognize that economic opportunity is central to long-term stability.

4. Addressing land degradation

• Leverage diverse financing instruments to support long-term projects focused on restoring degraded lands and preventing further land degradation, improving soil health, and preserving biodiversity

5. Unlocking Private Capital and Enhancing Risk Sharing

• Scale guarantees, blended finance structures, and PPPs to crowd in responsible private investment into SDG-critical sectors.
• Launch co-investment platforms with regional sovereign wealth funds and international impact investors.

6. Promoting Islamic Finance and Financial Innovation

• Position Islamic finance as an inclusive development framework, with a focus on asset-backed solutions.
• Integrate data-driven approaches, AI, and digital tools to enhance transparency, targeting, and results of monitoring in ACG-financed operations.

7. Championing South–South Development Finance Cooperation

• Strengthening cross-regional collaboration and knowledge sharing in climate resilience, food security, and digital inclusion.

8. Coordinating Action and Increasing Strategic Visibility

• Endorse an ACG 2025–2030 Joint Action Plan to align future operations with key FfD4 themes and upcoming global forums, including COP30 and the 2026 SDG Summit.

We Call Upon:

• Multilateral institutions to partner with ACG institutions as co-architects—not just implementers – of a more inclusive financial architecture that reflects the voices, needs, and innovations of the Global South.
• The international community transforms the aspirations of FfD4 into actionable outcomes that embed regional leadership and systemic reform.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Arab Coordination Group (ACG).

About the Arab Coordination Group (ACG):
The Arab Coordination Group (ACG) is a strategic alliance that provides a coordinated response to development finance. Since its establishment in 1975, ACG has been instrumental in developing economies and communities for a better future, providing more than 13,000 development loans to over 160 countries around the globe. Comprising ten development funds, ACG is the second-largest group of development finance institutions in the world and works across the globe to support developing nations and create a lasting, positive impact.

The Group comprises the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, the Arab Gulf Programme for Development, the Arab Monetary Fund, the Islamic Development Bank, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Qatar Fund for Development and the Saudi Fund for Development.

At the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), the Arab Coordination Group (ACG) (www.TheACG.org) convened a high-level roundtable and issued a joint communiqué reaffirming its commitment to transformative, equitable, and regionally anchored development finance.

Marking 50 years of partnership and impact in 2025, the ACG also adopted a new Joint Action Plan (2025–2030) to align its efforts with key global milestones, including COP30 and the 2026 SDG Summit.

FfD4 spotlighted a widening annual financing gap of over USD 4 trillion, escalating climate shocks, and worsening debt distress. In this context, the ACG called for urgent structural reform and long-term investment strategies designed to address the needs of fragile, conflict-affected, and climate-vulnerable nations.

Bridging Regions Through South–South Cooperation

The ACG also co-hosted a strategic roundtable, “Bridging Regions: Arab Coordination Group and Latin America and the Caribbean,” in collaboration with the OPEC Fund for International Development and CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean. The event brought together finance ministers, ACG leaders, CAF officials, and representatives from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration and the Caribbean Development Bank.

Discussions underscored the growing power of South–South cooperation to drive shared development through knowledge exchange, policy alignment and joint investment. Key areas of focus included climate adaptation, energy transition, food security, infrastructure, and economic diversification.

A Record Year of Impact

The ACG’s vision for the future builds on significant momentum. In 2024, the Group disbursed US$19.6 billion across nearly 650 operations in over 90 countries, making it the world’s second-largest development finance group.

These investments targeted core priorities: sustainable infrastructure, global trade, and solutions to systemic challenges such as climate change and food insecurity.

Earlier this month, at its 20th Annual Meeting in Vienna, ACG leaders reaffirmed their commitment to scaling up support for sustainable development and for vulnerable communities worldwide.

Shaping a More Inclusive Global Financial System

The ACG’s joint communiqué outlines bold commitments: expanding climate-resilient investment, supporting fragile states, restoring degraded lands, unlocking private capital, promoting innovative financing and deepening South–South cooperation.

As the ACG prepares to mark its 50th Anniversary in October 2025, it looks ahead with renewed resolve to close financing gaps, advance inclusive growth and deliver tangible solutions to global challenges.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Arab Coordination Group (ACG).

About the Arab Coordination Group (ACG):
The Arab Coordination Group (ACG) is a strategic alliance that provides a coordinated response to development finance. Since its establishment in 1975, ACG has been instrumental in developing economies and communities for a better future, providing more than 13,000 development loans to over 160 countries around the globe. Comprising ten development funds, ACG is the second-largest group of development finance institutions in the world and works across the globe to support developing nations and create a lasting, positive impact.

The Group comprises the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, the Arab Gulf Programme for Development, the Arab Monetary Fund, the Islamic Development Bank, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Qatar Fund for Development and the Saudi Fund for Development.