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CEO of Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, and H.E. Mrs. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of Zimbabwe &#038;Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother, co-chaired 2021 Merck Foundation Zimbabwe Annual Summit via videoconference to discuss their joint programs to transform patient care landscape in Zimbabwe via building healthcare capacity and raising awareness about breaking infertility stigma and support girl education. And to meet more than 100 of our Merck Foundation Alumni.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother emphasized, “I am very proud to tell you that in partnership with my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of Zimbabwe and Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother, we have provided 85 scholarships to young Zimbabwean doctors in various medical specialties like Fertility&#038;Embryology, Oncology, Diabetes, Cardiovascular, Endocrinology, Sexual&#038;Reproductive Medicine, Respiratory, Acute Medicines, Clinical Microbiology&#038;infectious diseases and Oncology. By building professional healthcare capacity, we have been able to transform the landscape of patient care in Zimbabwe. This is a huge achievement for us. Today, I am very happy to meet our alumni and discuss their impact on improving the quality of healthcare in the country after receiving specialized medical scholarships provided by Merck Foundation. Moreover, I am equally excited to meet the winners of the Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards and to discuss with them the significant role they have been playing to break the stigma around infertility, empowering girls and women through education, and raising awareness about coronavirus”.
H.E. Mrs. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of Zimbabwe and Ambassador of Merck Foundation More than a Mother expressed, “I am happy to work closely with our long-time partner Merck Foundation, as through their programs, together we have been able to reshape the landscape of our healthcare sector and empower our healthcare providers and motivate them to provide better care to our people especially during this difficult time of Covid-19. More than 85 medical graduates have already completed or are undergoing training in various medical specialties.”.
Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Zimbabwe have launched three children storybooks titled: “Tudu&#39;s Story” to emphasize on the strong family values of love and respect from a young age which will reflect on eliminating the stigma of infertility and resulted domestic violence in the future, “Educating Rujeko Story” to emphasize on the importance of empowering girls through education and “Make the Right Choice Story” to raise awareness about coronavirus prevention amongst children and youth as it provides facts about the pandemic and how to stay safe and healthy during the outbreak. 30,000 copies of the three storybooks have been distributed to young readers, school students of Zimbabwe.
Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Zimbabwe together with Ministries of Health and Information had also organized the their Health Media Training to educate media to be the voice of the voiceless and to break the stigma around infertility in Zimbabwe and rest of Africa.
Moreover, together with Zimbabwe First Lady, Merck Foundation has introduced 6 important Awards for Media, Fashion, Film, and Music fraternity.
Speaking about the latest edition of the Awards, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej explained, “After celebrating 27 Zimbabwean Media Winners of past editions of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” Media Recognition Awards and “Stay at Home” Media Recognition Awards, we are very excited to launch together with Her Excellency, the 2021 edition of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother Awards for our media, fashion, film making, and music fraternity to raise awareness on the important topics of breaking the stigma around infertility, underscoring the importance of girls’ education and women empowerment at all levels. Together, we are also announcing the Coronavirus theme-based awards for Media and Fashion fraternity, as this will help in raising awareness about continuing the best practices and also show support to our frontline workers in the country and the rest of Africa”
The Awards for 2021 launched are:
1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother”: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about Infertility Prevention, Breaking Infertility stigma, and Empowering Girls and Women through Education.
Submission deadline: 30th August 2021. Click here to view more details: https://bit.ly/3igFlHb

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2021: All African Filmmakers and Students are invited to create and share a FILM or a DOCUDRAMA to deliver strong and influential messages to break Infertility stigma, and /or Empowering Girls and Women through Education and at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th August 2021. Click here to view more details: https://bit.ly/3xkRZcu

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2021: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about Infertility Prevention, Breaking Infertility stigma, and/or Empowering Girls and Women through Education.
Submission deadline: 30th August 2021. Click here to view more details: https://bit.ly/3C6GwB6

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2021: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to Empower Girls and Women through Education and at all levels.
Submission deadline: 30th August 2021. Click here to view more details: https://bit.ly/3C3q2cW

5. Merck Foundation “Mask Up With Care” Media Recognition Awards 2021: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness on how to adapt best protection measures such as wearing your masks to show you care and love your family&#038;community; to encourage your community to choose to vaccinate when it is available and to sensitize them to support healthcare workers who are at the forefront of COVID 19 pandemic.
Submission deadline: 30th September 2021. Click here to view more details: https://bit.ly/37h4Fqy

6. Merck Foundation “Make Your Own Mask” Fashion Awards 2021: All African Fashion Designers and Students are invited to create and share designs of masks and other clothing items that carry messages to encourage people to wear masks to show they care and at the same time make it creative and fun!

Submission deadline: 30th September 2021. Click here to view more details: https://bit.ly/3jhO5fP

Entries for all the awards to be submitted via email to submit@merck-foundation.com.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Download more images: https://bit.ly/3fFcX03

About ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’ campaign: “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile women through access to information, education and change of mind-sets. This powerful campaign supports governments in defining policies to enhance access to regulated, safe, effective and equitable fertility care solutions. It defines interventions to break the stigma around infertile women and raises awareness about infertility prevention, management and male infertility. In partnership with African First Ladies, Ministries of Health, Information, Education&#038;Gender, academia, policymakers, International fertility societies, media and art, the initiative also provides training for fertility specialists and embryologists to build and advance fertility care capacity in Africa and developing countries.
With “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, we have initiated a cultural shift to de-stigmatize infertility at all levels: By improving awareness, training local experts in the fields of fertility care and media, building advocacy in cooperation with African First Ladies and women leaders and by supporting childless women in starting their own small businesses. It’s all about giving every woman the respect and the help she deserves to live a fulfilling life, with or without a child.
The Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” are:
H.E. NEO JANE MASISI, 			The First Lady of Botswana
H.E. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of The Gambia
H.E. MONICA GEINGOS, The First Lady of Namibia
H.E. SIKA KABORE, The First Lady of Burkina Faso
H.E. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO, The First Lady of Ghana

H.E. AISHA BUHARI, The First Lady of Nigeria
H.E. ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE,
The First Lady of Burundi
H.E. CONDÉ DJENE, The First Lady of Guinea Conakry
H.E FATIMA MAADA BIO, The First Lady of Sierra Leone
H.E. BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of Central African Republic
H.E. CLAR WEAH, The First Lady of Liberia
H.E. ESTHER LUNGU, The First Lady of Zambia
H.E. ANTOINETTE SASSOU-NGUESSO, The First Lady of Congo Brazzaville
H.E. MONICA CHAKWERA, The First Lady of Malawi
H.E. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of Zimbabwe
H.E. DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI, THE First Lady of Democratic Republic of Congo
H.E. ISAURA FERRÃO NYUSI, The First Lady of Mozambique

The Former First Lady of Burundi, H.E DENISE NKURUNZIZA, The Former First Lady of Chad, H.E. HINDA DÉBY ITNO, The Former First Lady of Malawi, H.E. PROFESSOR GERTRUDE MUTHARIKA and The Former First Lady of Niger, H.E AÏSSATA ISSOUFOU MAHAMADOU have worked successfully with Merck Foundation as Merck Foundation More Than a Mother Ambassadors to break the stigma of infertility and empower infertile women in their countries.

Merck Foundation launched new innovative initiatives to sensitize local communities about infertility prevention, male infertility with the aim to break the stigma of infertility and empowering infertile women as part of Merck Foundation More than a Mother COMMUNITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN, such as;
 	‘Merck Foundation More than a Mother’ Africa Media Recognition Awards and Health Media Training 	‘Merck Foundation More than a Mother’ Fashion Awards 	‘Merck Foundation More than a Mother’ Film Awards 	‘Merck Foundation More than a Mother’ Song Awards 	Local songs with local artists to address the cultural perception of infertility and how to change it 	Children storybook, localized for each country. 
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard: Facebook: http://bit.ly/2LdbD8F Twitter: http://bit.ly/2LesKH8 YouTube: http://bit.ly/3sdHMxm Instagram: http://bit.ly/2LC26rm Flickr: http://bit.ly/2XqzQdU Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com Download Merck Foundation App: https://bit.ly/2MmNvAU
About Merck Foundation: The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality&#038;equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. To know more, reach out to our social media: Merck Foundation (https://bit.ly/3lmaGdF); Facebook (https://bit.ly/3xiS94i), Twitter (https://bit.ly/3flyomG), Instagram (https://bit.ly/2LC26rm), YouTube (https://bit.ly/3sdHMxm) and Flicker (https://bit.ly/2XqzQdU).

Merck Foundation CEO and Zimbabwe First Lady co-chaired 2021 Annual Summit to continue building healthcare capacity, break infertility stigma and support girl education

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While marking World Breastfeeding Week this year, the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) in Somalia, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and World Health Organization (WHO) called for a concerted effort to create an enabling environment for Somali mothers to breastfeed their babies to improve their health, nutritional status and overall wellbeing.

“We are calling on all actors from household level through community leadership up to policy makers and development partners to actively take breastfeeding as everyone’s responsibility,” said Dr Abdinasir Mukhtar Ibrahim, the Director General, Somalia’s Federal Minister of Health and Human Services. “Together, through commitment, concerted action and collaboration, we can build strong collaborative systems for provision of appropriate and skilled breastfeeding counseling to mothers and ensure that our children are fed in the appropriate way for a healthy nation.”
This call to action comes as Somalia witnesses an increase in child malnutrition, including reduction in infant and young child feeding practices, due to steep declines in household incomes among other challenges posed by shocks such as drought, flooding and the COVID-19 pandemic. The advice is also in line with the global theme for the week: ‘Protect Breastfeeding: A Shared Responsibility.’
FMoH, WHO and UNICEF recommend early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, feeding the child only breast milk for the first 6 months (exclusive breastfeeding), and continuing to breastfeed for up to 24 months or beyond, with the introduction of nutritionally adequate and safe complementary (solid) foods at 6 months.
“Breastfeeding provides children the best start in life,” said Nejmudin Bilal, Acting UNICEF Representative in Somalia. “It is a baby’s best source of nutrition, bolstering brain development with lifelong benefits. Early initiation of breastfeeding offers a powerful line of defense against all forms of childhood malnutrition including wasting.”
During World Breastfeeding Week, FMoH will launch breastfeeding awareness campaigns throughout the country and skilled breastfeeding counselling will be provided in a variety of settings including health facilities and clinics and through home visits by community health workers. The campaign will also stress that it is still safe to breastfeed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Even in the context of COVID-19, WHO recommends that mothers with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should be encouraged to initiate and continue breastfeeding, while implementing appropriate hygiene measures, such as wearing a medical mask, if available, to reduce the chances of droplets with COVID-19 being spread to her infant. The benefits of breastfeeding substantially outweigh the potential risks of COVID-19 transmission,” said Dr Mamunur Malik, WHO Representative to Somalia. “So far, active COVID-19 (virus that can cause infection) has not been detected in breast milk of any mother with confirmed/suspected COVID-19.”
In addition, as part of the Federal Ministry of Health’s national nutrition strategy 2020-2025, countrywide efforts will be scaled up with the primary goal to increase the number of babies aged 0-6 months old who are exclusively breastfed to above 50% by 2025. According to the latest government data, only 34% of babies under 6 months are exclusive breastfeeding.
WBW Somalia 2021 will focus on how breastfeeding contributes to the survival, health and wellbeing of all, and the imperative to protect breastfeeding worldwide. The 2021 theme is: Protect Breastfeeding: A Shared Responsibility​ and it is aligned with thematic area 2 of the WBW-SDG 2030 campaign which highlights the links between breastfeeding and survival, health and wellbeing of women, children and nations.
Improving breastfeeding rates and practices requires action on the part of multiple actors including governments, health care institutions, health care workers and businesses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the FMoH will continue to ensure that access to these essential services is not disrupted and that families continue to receive the breastfeeding counseling they need.
The Importance of Breastfeeding is mentioned in the Holy Quran 233rd verse of Sura Al-Baqarah in which it is stated that: &#8220;mothers [should] breastfeed their children for a total of two years”.
“Breastfeeding must be considered a public health issue that requires supportive interventions at all levels. Together, we can ensure that every mother has access to skilled breastfeeding counselling, empowering her to give her baby the best possible start in life,” added the Director General.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health&#038;Human Services, Federal Republic of Somalia.

Somali Government, UNICEF and WHO mark World Breastfeeding Week with a call to protect, promote and support breastfeeding

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Peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) often go beyond their mandated tasks to help the communities they are here to serve. The Thai Horizontal Military Engineering Company are no exception.

Blue Helmets from Thailand are not only doing their bit to repair and rehabilitate critical infrastructure such as main supply routes across this young country, but have also embarked on training local communities, especially displaced people, how to grow their own food.
The main aim: To equip people with skills to become economically independent and embrace a sustainable mode of livelihood.
According to Major Tiwa Kampeera, the Team Leader of this intervention, peacekeepers wanted to trickle down the philosophy of self-sufficient economies that was embraced by the departed Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
“It’s about a balanced way of living and is based on the key principles of motivation, reasonableness and prudence along with morality and knowledge. More importantly, these principles can be applied to any level of society to make sure they are empowered with the tools needed to forge a prosperous life,” explains Major Kampeera. “We, therefore, felt that passing down the knowledge we have about sustainable agricultural practices would benefit local communities here for generations to come.”
The committed team of Thai peacekeepers conducted two vocational trainings for local communities on organic farming and agriproduct processing. Participants learnt how to grow vegetables they were familiar with and were introduced to new ones. They also learnt how to prepare delicious and nutritious meals.
According to Jaak Buom Gathuak, a displaced person residing in the Juba camp for internally displaced persons, who participated in the training sessions, he has been given a skill for life. “The economic situation in South Sudan, especially for displaced people, is dire,” reveals Jaak. “Many of us had to give up our homes, our education during the civil war and lack the training required to start a trade. With the skills I have acquired through these workshops, I am confident that I will be able to farm successfully and teach other community members these good practices as well.”
The project has been handed over to the South Sudanese National Police Service to manage. However, the Thai HMEC have three more months left in South Sudan and they are keeping a watchful eye, ready to help in any way they can, if needed.
“Even though we are just a small part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, we have tried to do our best to develop and support this community and this country by helping individuals forge a better future,” says Lieutenant-Colonel Kaisin Sasunee, contingent commander.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Thai engineers support displaced communities in South Sudan by training them on sustainable farming practices

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“What is more painful isn’t the beatings and injuries inflicted on me, but rather the psychological trauma I underwent after the assault,” says Muna Abdi*.

Muna, 23, a mother of three, who resides in Walag 1 camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Baidoa, was injured by her husband on the morning of 14 May 2021. She had reportedly engaged in a verbal altercation with him over domestic-related issues that went awry and which ultimately resulted in physical assault and abuse by him.

“I vividly recall what happened that Friday morning. My husband physically assaulted me and caused serious injuries to my body. I left the homestead to seek medical help as well as to escape from him,” narrates Muna after she had fully recovered from her wounds.

Muna, 23, a mother of three, has just undergone psychosocial support. UNFPA Somalia provides technical and financial support to the Rural Education and Agriculture Development Organization (READO), a non-governmental organization, to provide comprehensive care to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). The support includes medical, legal and psychosocial services either within one location, a hospital or a stand-alone centre or through a referral system that links services.

Luckily for Muna, the READO GBV team was conducting a regular field monitoring visit in the IDP camp on the same morning of the ordeal. They got to learn from community leaders about the incident. “We looked for Muna and found her. We assessed her case after following the normal procedures of consent taking,” said Siyad Abdirahman Mohamud, READO GBV field coordinator.

According to Mohamud, the team supported Muna with medical services at the one-stop centre operated by the READO medical and GBV team. “We also provided her with psychosocial counselling,” he said.

UNFPA is one of the UN’s lead agencies working with partners like READO to further gender equality and women’s empowerment and address the physical and emotional consequences of GBV. UNFPA’s programmes offer psychosocial assistance, medical treatment and rape kits to survivors and promote the right of all women and girls to live free of violence and abuse.

Between 25 and 30 different GBV cases are supported, and hundreds of people are mobilized among IDPs in Baidoa each month. 

“Somalia continues to face a complex humanitarian crisis. About 5.2 million people need humanitarian assistance, and this contributes to the occurrence of GBV,” said Abdullahi Abdirasak, Humanitarian Programme Analyst for UNFPA Somalia.
He said the number of displaced people across the country is at 2.6 million, with 340,000 women and girls at risk of GBV. “There continues to be a need for the protection of vulnerable groups. We put all our efforts to fill gaps in GBV response in the best way we can,” said Abdirasak.

With UNFPA’s support, READO is stepping up the provision of psychosocial support services to women and girls affected by GBV, harmful practices including rape, physical abuse, sexual assault, and child and forced marriages.

Meanwhile, Muna is back in her home. READO continues to counsel her while carrying out follow-up visits with her. Muna also received a dignity kit upon return to her home.

UNFPA also supports the procurement and distribution of dignity kits; they contain basic hygiene necessities, including soap and detergent, a toothbrush and toothpaste, underwear and menstrual pads. The dignity kits are distributed to women and girls affected by humanitarian emergencies.

“I very much appreciate the support given to me by the team from this organization,” said Muna, pointing at the logo of READO on a jacket won by the psychosocial expert counselling her on the trauma she underwent. “The continued counselling and support from this organization has helped me regain my self-esteem and courage,” she added.

*Name changed for privacy and protection
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Healing survivors of GBV (gender-based violence) in IDP (internally displaced persons) camps

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In a bid to curb the on-going cholera outbreak in Bauchi State and possibly the northeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria, the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with health authorities in Bauchi state has deployed Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) in combination with other community control measures to stop the transmission of the disease and save lives. A total of 710,212 persons one year and above have been vaccinated with the OCV in the five-day reactive campaign that ended on 28 July 2021 in the first cycle. The second and the final cycle will soon commence after 2 weeks for the same persons.

To flag-off the vaccination campaign, the State Governor, H.E. Senator Bala Mohammed directed the provision of free treatment for all victims of the disease and to consolidate on the gains already achieved, he pledged the sum of 25 million naira to further support interventions in the areas of risk communication and infection prevention and control measures. 
He further expressed his gratitude to partners, saying, “We thank our development partners for their prompt response to the call for action against the outbreak.”
WHO had facilitated the release of 1,565,558 doses of the cholera vaccine to the State.
Cholera is an acute bacterial infection associated with profuse diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration and death. Cholera is spread mainly by faecal contamination of water and food and is closely linked to poor sanitation and lack of clean drinking water. 
Bauchi state recorded its first confirmed case on 24 April 2021 from a 37-year-old Woman in Magami community of Burra ward in Ningi local government area (LGA). So far, the state has recorded 9,091 cases and has the highest number of cases among the 17 states which reported cases country.  Meanwhile Bauchi LGA has the highest burden of the outbreak in the state with 6,273 (69%) of all reported cases and 43% (37) of the total deaths.
With the increase in confirmed cholera cases in the state, WHO supported Bauchi State in building capacity of 57 LGA Disease Surveillance and Notification officers (DSNOs) as well as Assistant DSNOs, 500 health care workers and distributed cholera management guidelines, protocols and information, education and communication (IEC) materials which was used to sensitize the affected communities.
The DSNO of Bauchi LGA, Abdullahi Suleiman, one of those trained mitigating and addressing the cholera outbreak said, “there is no doubt case detection and reporting was low prior to the training of health workers. We had less than 2000 cases in the LGA then. However, after the training the rate of case detection and reporting rose to over 6000 cases. There is also evidence to suggest case detection has substantially increased across the state as well. The training has indeed made a difference in our capacity as health workers”.
Meanwhile, a resident of of Turum in Bauchi LGA, one of the hardest hit settlements and a beneficiary of the house-to-house sensitization campaign, Mallam Sani Garba said the risk information has enabled him to put in place, mechanism that is protecting him and his family from the outbreak.
 “I feel so empowered and so protected after being educated about the causes and preventive measures of cholera from health workers and other community volunteers. 
In my neighborhood many families were infected with some persons dying due to our lack of awareness on the causes and safety measures. However, today the rate of infection has gone down significantly due to adherence to the lifesaving messages on the prevention of the disease”. 
Similarly, Hajiya Mairo, a housewife and mother of 3 children said “I was so apprehensive of the safety of my children from the cholera outbreak because it is all around us. However, the cholera vaccination has changed all that now. I that feel my children and I are really protected against this deadly disease.”
On his part, the Emir of Bauchi, HRH. Dr Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu assured that he will continue to work with all traditional and religious leaders to raise community awareness and increase the vaccine uptake in order to overcome the outbreak.
“We commend WHO for facilitating the release of the vaccines and we are committed to utilize them in line with international coordinating group (ICG) guidelines. We have lost many lives and this vaccine has come at a time we are dire need of a life saving intervention”. This was disclosed by the Executive Chairman Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, (BSPHCDA) during the flag off of the OCV campaign. 
Speaking on the vaccination, the WHO Northeast Zonal Coordinator – NEZ, Dr Haruna Adamu said WHO in collaboration with NPHCDA and GAVI, facilitated the release of about 1.5 million doses of oral cholera vaccine (OCV) from the international coordinating group (ICG) to Bauchi state.  
ICG obliged the Bauchi state request for OCV in view of the high burden of the disease and mortality rate. 
Meanwhile other states in the zone are yet to issue a formal outbreak declaration even though pockets of cases have been recorded. WHO has, nonetheless collaborated with the states to preposition cholera sample collection kits as well as supported in the development of outbreak response plans. 
The key areas of WHO support to the states in the northeast “cuts across a variety of technical areas. We are supporting states in areas of outbreak investigation, coordination, surveillance, risk communication, data management and in the supervision and monitoring of the on-going OCV campaign in Bauchi” the WHO Zonal Coordinator added. 
However, to curb the spread of the disease in Bauchi state, the Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has set up isolation and treatment camps in 2 locations in the state – Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital and Toro General Hospital. All severe cases are referred to these locations while mild cases are managed in General Hospitals in the other LGAs without MSF presence.
Cholera remains a global threat to public health and indicator of inequity and lack of social development. WHO estimates that every year there are roughly 1.3 to 4 million cases, and 21,000 to 143,000 deaths globally due to cholera. Symptoms include among others, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting and dehydration.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) &#8211; Nigeria.

Coronavirus – Nigeria: WHO supports Bauchi State to vaccinate Over 700,000 persons with oral cholera vaccines during reactive campaign

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As of 31 July, WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Region has reported almost 12.6 million cases of COVID-19 and more than 236 000 deaths. Many countries are reporting a substantial increase in the number of cases and deaths over the past month, including the Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, Tunisia, and Somalia.

An average of 363 000 new cases and 4300 deaths have been reported across the Region on a weekly basis over the last 4 weeks, marking a 67% and 24% increase in the number of cases and deaths, respectively, compared to the previous month. 
As we work hard to take steps to control the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus continues to mutate and spread faster and more aggressively across the Region, with severe public health consequences. 
As of 28 July, 132 countries globally have reported detection of the Delta variant, including 15 countries in our Region. The Delta variant continues to spread faster and soon it will become a dominant variant globally. 
The statistics related to the impact of the Delta variant are startling: studies have shown that the risk of hospitalization for people infected with the Delta variant is on average 120% more than the risk for people infected with the original strain, and the risk of death is on average 137% higher. Even more startling is the risk of ICU admission, with people infected by the Delta variant on average 287% more likely to be admitted into intensive care.
A few countries in the Region are experiencing a significant rise in cases and deaths as a result of the Delta variant, which is being reported mainly among unvaccinated people. This makes it even more critical that all countries receive enough vaccine doses quickly, and that people take the vaccine at the first opportunity they are offered it. 
One way to control the fast spread of the Delta variant and others is to maintain the proven preventive measures to protect ourselves and others, including getting vaccinated while also continuing to practise physical distancing, wearing masks, washing hands, avoiding crowded spaces and suspending all social gatherings. Intensifying our efforts to scale up the access and availability of the COVID-19 vaccine is another important step, especially in low- and middle-income countries in the Region. 
Unfortunately, there is still a worrying inequity in the distribution of vaccines, with many countries in our Region severely impacted. 
As of 1 August, 132 million vaccine doses were administered across the Region and only 44 million people (5.9%) of the Region’s population were fully vaccinated. 41% of all vaccine doses were administered in 6 high-income countries, which hold only 8% of the Region’s total population. 
Some countries have signed agreements with manufacturers to begin local production of vaccines and conduct phase 3 clinical trials. These include Egypt, Islamic Republic of Iran, Morocco, Pakistan and United Arab Emirates that have signed agreements with Sinovac, Cuban Finlay Institute, Cansino and Sinopharm, respectively.
Currently, COVID-19 vaccines are being manufactured in United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Pakistan, with the vaccine manufactured in Pakistan (Pak Vac) and United Arab Emirates (Hyat-Vax) already approved by their national regulatory authority and distributed within the country. 
WHO is currently supporting local vaccine production by establishing a regional technology hub that can facilitate the transfer of technology platforms, including the mRNA technology platform.
But until vaccination coverage is increased equitably for everybody, everywhere, the virus will continue to circulate and mutate, making it harder to contain, and leading to even more infections and deaths. 
The good news is that more doses of vaccines are expected to reach our Region next month, and we are working with countries to make sure that they are prepared to receive these vaccines and roll them out, as well as ensure that communities are informed of the benefits of vaccines as a key lifesaving tool in protecting them against COVID-19.
We have all been closely following the situation in Tunisia, which is facing a huge surge in cases and deaths. More than 90% of all reported infections across the country are due to the Delta variant, and this is being fuelled by low adherence to public health and social measures, as well as low vaccination coverage. 
This week marks one year since the blast in Beirut’s port killed 200 people, injured 6000 people, and left 300 000 people displaced. The aftermath of the explosion saw cases of COVID-19 skyrocket, including among health care workers, and the impact of this continues to be seen today, as the health system continues to struggle with limited resources amid the worst economic and social crisis in recent history.
Historically, Lebanon and Tunisia share many similarities, whether politically, economically, or socially. Unfortunately, they now also share another similarity, which is a deteriorating situation related to COVID-19. Both countries are facing a concerning increase in the numbers of cases and deaths, and their health systems have been brought to their knees, leaving health care workers overwhelmed, and critical shortages in medical supplies.
Today, we welcome WHO’s Representatives in Lebanon and Tunisia, who will talk more about the situation in these countries and what WHO is doing to meet critical health needs.
But even as work with partners, governments, and communities in countries of the Region to battle the spread, we all know that this is not a crisis that can be resolved within the borders of one country alone. This is a global crisis and needs a global effort to overcome it. 
WHO encourages wealthier countries to donate doses to low- and lower middle-income countries, and appeals to all individuals to continue using the prevention measures such as hand hygiene, mask use, and physical distancing, even after they have been vaccinated.
We are all in it together. No one can defeat this virus alone, and no one is safe until everyone is safe.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean.

Coronavirus: Statement on COVID-19 in the Eastern Mediterranean Region

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The International Federation of Red Cross Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in the Middle East and North Africa, is concerned that the increasing COVID-19 transmissions in the region could spark a domino effect with catastrophic health, social and economic impacts, unless vaccination rollouts are stepped up and protection measures reinforced.

Algeria, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia reported the greatest number of new cases in the past weeks, with Tunisia reporting the greatest increase in new reported deaths. Concerns for the future are mounting as variants continue to spread, health systems are on the verge of collapse and the vaccination rates in the Middle East and North Africa region continue to lag dangerously behind.
Dr Haytham Qosa, Head of IFRC MENA Health Unit, said: “Leaving countries behind on vaccines will only serve to prolong the pandemic, not just in the region, but globally. Many countries are facing other vulnerabilities, including conflict, natural disasters, water shortages, displacement, and other disease outbreaks. This makes people even more vulnerable to the devastating impacts of COVID-19. This alone should be a reason enough for global solidarity to ensure equitable vaccine access in the region. At a global level, vaccine equity is key to reducing the likelihood of variants and saving lives by limiting the spread of the virus. This is the only way we can truly end this pandemic.”
The Red Cross Red Crescent staff and volunteers have been on the frontline of the COVID-19 response since the outset. IFRC has been supporting the Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies in MENA with:  • Efforts to accelerate vaccination campaigns in support of the national vaccination plans. • Provision of cash assistance, food parcels, hygiene kits, and masks to affected people. • Provision of medical supplies including oxygen concentrators, ventilators&#038;generators, and PPEs to local health authorities • Monitoring of the vaccination campaigns for quality, standards, fairness and equity • Technical support with risk communication and community engagement. 
Despite lofty rhetoric about global solidarity in terms of vaccine equity, there is a deadly gap in the global plan to equitably distribute COVID-19 vaccines. In MENA region, only 10 doses per 100 people have been administered in many countries, including Libya, Algeria, Egypt, and Iraq. In Syria and Yemen, there has been less than one dose per 100 people 1.
Dr Hosam Faysal, Head of IFRC MENA Disasters, Climate and Crises Unit, coordinating the IFRC response to COVID-19, said: “The new waves of the pandemic remind us that the battle against it is unfortunately not yet over. However, it also highlights the critical role of the our Red Cross and Red Crescent staff and volunteers as trusted local actors who are able to quickly response to new surges of cases. Across the region they are working tirelessly to support health system, help protect communities and ensure vaccines make it into arms of the most vulnerable. But without more vaccines, there cannot be vaccinations.”
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

Inclusive vaccination and protection measures urgently needed to stop the new pandemic waves in North Africa

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South Africa has received 2.8 million Pfizer vaccine doses from the United States as part of a donation that is set to boost the country’s vaccination rollout campaign.

Acting Health Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi was joined by Deputy Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla and the Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in South Africa, Todd Haskell, in accepting the consignment at OR Tambo International Airport on Saturday. 
According to the Department of Health, the arrival of this first batch is part of a donation from the US government.
The initiative is part of the collaboration between the African Vaccine Acquisition Trust (AVAT), COVAX, and the US government, with the African Union Member States set to receive about 25 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to enhance coverage across the continent, and vaccinate at least 60% of the African population. 
“The next batch will arrive on Tuesday to conclude the 5.6 million doses. The donation will contribute to the country’s expanded vaccination programme, which is fast gaining momentum to reach more people,” the Health Department said on Twitter.
The department said these life-saving vaccines arrive at a time when the country gears to vaccinate those aged between 18 and 34 from September.
“By the time we open for people between the ages of 18 and 34 to be vaccinated from the 1st of September 2021, we will be able to respond to the demand that this cohort will generate,” Kubayi said last week during a media briefing. 
The department believes the donation contributes to the security of supply to meet the demands to reach government&#39;s milestones to inoculate the majority of the population soon. 
In addition, about 1 454 900 Johnson&#038;Johnson vaccines are expected to be transported to various sites on Tuesday.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

Coronavirus – South Africa: US Donates Pfizer Vaccine Doses to SA

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Giacomo Nizzolo won the Circuito de Gexto &#8211; Memorial Hermanos Otxoa, sprinting to the victory from a small breakaway group. Giovanni Aleotti (Bora-Hansgrohe) finished 2nd and Santiago Buitrago (Bahrain-Victorious) was 3rd.

The UCI 1.1 Circuito de Gexto saw riders take on 6 laps of an undulating circuit between Bilbao and Gexto, before completing a larger finishing circuit that included the the tough final climb of Pike Bidea, for a total race distance of 194km.
Team Qhubeka NextHash had last year&#39;s second place finisher, Giacomo Nizzolo, targeting the top step of the podium today and so our South African UCI World Tour team rallied around the European champion throughout the race.
The race got off to a very fast start with numerous attacks and the pace was so high that it took almost 90km before any break finally got a significant gap. 11 strong riders had gone off the front and so Team Qhubeka NextHash, together with Caja-Rural and Bora-Hansgrohe took up the chase.
With around 55km to go, the pressure was on to bring the leaders back and as a result, there was a split at the head of the peloton as 12 riders went off in pursuit of the early leaders. Team Qhubeka NextHash had both Nizzolo and Carlos Barbero in this select chase group.
Barbero would go on to play a pivotal support role for Nizzolo, all the way up to the final climb of Pike Bidea at 15km to go, as he worked hard to ensure the breakaway was caught before the climb.
On the climb it was then up to Nizzolo to try and follow the climbers as they began attacking on the steep slopes. The Italian sprinter held his own and did a fantastic climb, to summit in 5th place, just 15&#8243; behind the front riders. He was then able to bridge across to the lead on the descent, setting up an exciting finale.
Bora-Hansgrohe had a numbers advantage in the group that was now reduced to just 7 riders. Nizzolo had to follow a stinging attack from Ide Schelling with 6km to go but was successful in doing so and this set up a sprint finish between Nizzolo, Buitrago and the teammates of Aleotti and Schelling.
Nizzolo was too strong in the final kick for the other 3 riders and with 150m to go, he powered away to take a fine victory for Team Qhubeka NextHash. Barbero also managed to come home in a respectable 11th place, making it a great day for the team all round. Giacomo Nizzolo I am super happy about today&#39;s victory. Last year I came 2nd here so this year I really wanted to win. The race was super difficult to control because everyone wanted to attack. I had to attack as well and spent a lot of energy but in the end I still felt good so I am super happy. Thanks to all the team for the support today and also to all the fans here in Basque Country, they always have a lot of passion and are very special to me.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Team Qhubeka NextHash.
Media contact: Jean Smyth (Head of Communications) Email: jean@ryder.co.za Mobile: +27 63 470 1710 or +31 625 739 033
About Team Qhubeka NextHash Team Qhubeka NextHash is a purpose-led, high-performance team, fighting to win on the world&#39;s biggest stage, to inspire hope and create opportunity. Founded in 2007, Team Qhubeka NextHash (formerly NTT Pro Cycling) became the first-ever African cycling team to gain a UCI WorldTour license, in 2016.
We achieved our first major win in 2013 when Gerald Ciolek won Milan-San Remo, one of the five Monuments of cycling. We have competed in six Tour de France’s and notched up 7 stage wins, with Mark Cavendish wearing the coveted Yellow Jersey at the 2016 Tour de France.
We are a multicultural, diverse team with bases in South Africa, the Netherlands and Italy. There are 19 nationalities represented across our World Tour and continental feeder team rosters. Our focus on developing African cycling has resulted in more than 55 riders from the African continent be given the opportunity to race on the world stage, since the team&#39;s inception.
We race to help people to move forward with bicycles through our relationship with Qhubeka Charity. Through our work with Qhubeka, we have contributed to the distribution of over 30 000 bicycles in communities in South Africa.
About Qhubeka Qhubeka is a charity that moves people forward with bicycles.  People earn bicycles through our programmes, improving their access to schools, clinics and jobs.
A bicycle is a tool that helps people to travel faster and further, and to carry more. In the face of extreme and persistent poverty, bicycles can change lives by helping to address socioeconomic challenges at the most basic level – helping people to get where they need to go. 
All images attached to the press release can be used with the respective image credit in combination to this release.

Giacomo Nizzolo Powers to Victory at Circuito Gexto for Team Qhubeka NextHash

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Kenya has received an additional 410,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine in yet another boost to ongoing efforts to vaccinate its adult population.

Speaking at JKIA after receiving the consignment, on behalf of Health CS Mutahi Kagwe, Health Chief Administrative Secretary Dr. Mercy Mwangangi said the donation will go a long way towards bolstering Kenya’s journey towards realising herd immunity.“Our capacity for vaccine deployment remains very robust, but as is now common knowledge, our efforts have been greatly affected by supply constraints. When we receive donations such as what we have received today from friends and well-wishers, it is a deserved shot in the arm for our vaccination efforts.” Said Dr. Mwangangi.
Foreign affairs CAS Ababu Namwamba said global solidarity remains key in the fight against the pandemic adding that it will ensure equitable access to the lifesaving vaccines.
British Deputy High Commissioner to Kenya Josephine Gauld said the consignment is the first batch of the 817,000 doses for Kenya with a further donation of 407,000 doses from the UK expected in the country via the COVAX facility.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe had yesterday announced that more vaccine doses will be arriving in the country beginning next week in a boost to the ongoing vaccination campaign. Kenya is also expecting to receive 1,760,000 doses of Pfizer from the US government.
A further 235,000 doses of Astrazeneca are expected in the country from Greece with an extra 55,000 doses of AstraZeneca set to arrive in the country from Lativia as part of bilateral donations.
The Covax facility has also allocated Kenya 407,040 doses of AstraZeneca and 271,440 doses of Pfizer. This besides the 13 million doses of Johnson and Johnson, procured by the government through the AVAT-AU mechanism, whose delivery will start next month.
The roll out of the national vaccination campaign is being led by the Ministry of Health, with support from WHO, UNICEF, Gavi and other partners. The Government of Kenya is currently prioritising second doses for health workers, teachers, other essential workers and people aged over 58.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health, Kenya.

Coronavirus: Kenya has Received an Additional 410,000 Doses of AstraZeneca

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The U.S. Embassy in Niamey, Niger announces the donation by the United States Government of a second batch of 151,200 doses of the single shot Johnson&#038;Johnson COVID-19 vaccine as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s global efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.  In the past week, the Embassy donated 151,200 vaccines from the American people to the people of Niger.  The U.S. government coordinated closely with the African Union, Africa CDC, and COVAX on the country allocations.  COVAX supported delivery of these vaccine doses, which arrived in Niamey on July 29, 2021. 

This donation will help protect the Nigerien people from the ravages of the COVID-19 virus and begin reducing barriers to building back Niger’s economy.  “Today, the United States is using the power of its democracy, the ingenuity of American scientists, and the force of American manufacturing to beat the pandemic on a global scale,” explained Ambassador Eric Whitaker. 
This combined total of 302,400 doses is part of the Biden-Harris Administration commitment to share U.S. vaccine supply with the world.  As we continue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic at home and work to end the pandemic worldwide, President Biden has promised that the United States will be an arsenal of vaccines. 
The U.S. government, through USAID Niger, is also supporting the Ministry of Health’s work to ensure Niger can safely and effectively distribute these vaccines.  USAID is providing assistance to support training, planning, supply chain logistics, and communications outreach to make certain the vaccines are available for the people of Niger.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy in Niger.

Coronavirus – Niger: United States Donates Second Batch of 151,200 COVID-19 Vaccines to Niger

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UN experts* today called for all mercenaries and mercenary-related private contractors to leave Libya, saying their departure is long overdue, and is a vital precondition to peaceful elections scheduled for later this year.
“Nine months after the ceasefire agreement calling for withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries from Libya, mercenaries and private military and security contractors continue to operate in the country,” said Jelena Aparac, chair of the UN’s Working Group on the use of mercenaries.
“Their continued recruitment and presence in Libya impedes progress in the peace process and constitutes an obstacle for the upcoming elections.”
Well-trained and well-armed private contractors from Russia, Syria, Sudan and Chad operating in Libya, some of whom meet the criteria for mercenaries, could also negatively affect the security and stability of other countries in the region, the experts warned.
The experts stressed that these mercenary and mercenary-related actors must leave immediately, and there must be an immediate end to the transfer of military weapons and materiel into Libya.
“We appeal to the international community to take concrete steps to aid this process,” Aparac said.
In the UN-facilitated Libyan Political Dialogue Forum, participants agreed on a roadmap to credible, inclusive and democratic national elections, to be held on 24 December 2021.
“If elections are to be held in December 2021 as scheduled, Libyans should be able to undertake that process in a safe and secure environment, and the presence of these actors impedes that,” Aparac said.
In June 2020, the UN Working Group warned that reliance on mercenaries and related actors since 2019 had contributed to escalation of the conflict in Libya and undermined the peace process, which was a breach of the existing arms embargo imposed by the UN Security Council. At that time, they urged governments to investigate all allegations of human rights violations and humanitarian law violations.
“A year on, and looking forward to elections, we remain concerned that any political process aiming to establish sustainable peace has to include a genuine commitment to human rights,” the experts said. “There must be real accountability for abuses committed by mercenaries, mercenary-related actors, and private contractors.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Mercenaries and Related Private Contractors Must Leave Libya to Pave Way for Peace, Elections – UN Experts

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In June 2021, two cases of rabies were confirmed in jackal from the Cradle of Humankind area, Mogale City Municipality, Gauteng Province. In addition, three jackal in the same area were suspected of rabies, but not confirmed. In response, rabies vaccination campaigns in dogs have been underway in the affected and surrounding areas. During the week of the July 25th 2021, rabies was confirmed in a honey badger in the same area.  Three human exposures to the honey badger were reported. It is reported that all three cases have received rabies post-exposure prophylaxis and wound care to prevent rabies infection.

Rabies is controllable and preventable. The disease is effectively controlled in domestic dogs through rabies vaccination. The public is urged to ensure that their dogs are fully vaccinated against rabies. Dogs that are not fully vaccinated for rabies are susceptible to infection. Campaigns in response to the above-mentioned cases are ongoing in the affected area of Mogale City. If any animal is suspected to be rabid (including animals presenting with unusual behaviour, hyper-salivation, signs of paralysis), contact your local or state veterinarian (Vet.help@gauteng.gov.za) in order for the animal to be investigated. Do not approach or attempt to handle animals that are not known to you. The public should refrain from engaging in direct interactions with wildlife. Often, rabid wildlife may appear tame and it may be tempting to feed or pet such animals.
When possible exposures in humans do occur (for example through bites or scratches inflicted by a suspected rabid animal), all wounds must be washed thoroughly with soap and water. It is then crucial that rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is sought immediately at a healthcare facility. Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is considered a live-saving emergency intervention following possible rabies virus exposures. Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis entails thorough cleaning of the wound site/s followed by rabies vaccination and rabies immunoglobulin therapy. More details on rabies post-exposure prophylaxis are available here
Rabies is a fatal infection, which has been an endemic disease in South Africa for many years. It is reported in various parts of the country involving different animal species. Known, ongoing cycles of rabies exist in domestic dogs, black-backed jackal, mongoose species and bat-eared fox in certain locations of the country. Spill-over to other wildlife and domestic species do occur, sometimes in locations where the disease is not often reported. The number of cases of rabies in dogs fluctuate, mostly due to the level of vaccination of the dogs in a given area. Human rabies cases are most often associated with exposures to rabid domestic dogs. In Gauteng Province, rabies is reported infrequently in mongoose and jackal, and more often on the rural outskirts of the province. In 2010, and extensive outbreak in domestic dogs was reported in south-western Johannesburg (including Soweto). One human case was reported during this outbreak. The outbreak was controlled through extensive dog vaccination campaigns in the area. In 2016, an outbreak of rabies in jackal was also reported from Mogale City, in the Muldersdrift surrounds, with few cases confirmed in domestic dog and none in humans.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Institute for Communicable Diseases, South Africa (NICD).

Rabies reported from West Rand, Gauteng Province

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This week, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) procured and delivered personal protective equipment, funded by Brazil to the Ministry of Health in Zambia. The equipment, consisting of 1,315 white overalls and 11,505 disposable gowns will be used in Zambia’s efforts to fight COVID-19.

To date, Zambia has recorded over 192,000 COVID-19 cases and 3,295 deaths.

“We hope this gesture from the Brazilian Government can be of help to Zambia in its critical fight against a disease that is affecting all the countries with no discrimination. It is also important to highlight that Brazil’s humanitarian aid singles out the importance of our bilateral relations and the friendship that both countries have enjoyed for over half a century,” says H.E. Arthur Henrique Villanova Nogueira, Ambassador of Brazil.

“WFP Zambia is utilizing our supply chain expertise and experience to transport the equipment to where it is needed the most. We need more partnerships like this to combat COVID-19 – and we are proud to assist in the effort,’’ says Jayoung Lee, WFP Deputy Country Director and Officer in Charge.

In addition to service provision activities, WFP Zambia provided cash assistance to over 312,000 vulnerable people impacted by the negative effects of COVID-19. Between July 2020 and April 2021, WFP disbursed over US$ 7.8 million to targeted households, helping them cope during the onset of the pandemic and allowing them to meet their food and nutrition needs.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Food Programme (WFP).

Coronavirus – Zambia: Brazil Partners with WFP to Provide Personal Protective Equipment to the Government of Zambia

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More than 100,000 children in Tigray, Ethiopia, could suffer from life-threatening severe acute malnutrition in the next 12 months, a tenfold jump over average annual levels, UN Children&#39;s Fund (UNICEF) said on Friday.

The development comes as UNICEF announced that it had recently reached areas of Tigray that were previously inaccessible owing to insecurity linked to nearly nine months of conflict between Government forces and those loyal to the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, or TPLF. 
Worst fears  
UNICEF spokesperson Marixie Mercado told a UN briefing in Geneva that humanitarians’ worst fears about the health and wellbeing of children have been realized.  
Assessments also indicate that 47 per cent of pregnant and breastfeeding women are acutely malnourished, suggesting that they could face more pregnancy-related complications, an increased risk of maternal death during childbirth and the delivery of low-birthweight babies, who are much more prone to sickness and death.  
&#8220;We need unfettered access into Tigray and across the region, in order to provide support children and women urgently need,&#8221; she said, her comments coming as UN emergency relief chief Martin Griffiths and US aid relief (USAID) head, Samantha Power, reportedly planned to hold talks in Ethiopia this week to push for increased access in Tigray.  
Aid convoy approaching 
Meanwhile, World Food Programme (WFP) spokesperson Tomson Phiri, said that a convoy of more than 200 trucks was on its way to Tigray, but “this is a drop in the ocean.” At least 100 trucks are needed every day “if we are to stand a chance to reverse the catastrophic situation”.  
Latest UN data indicates that humanitarian partners have reached nearly 3.7 million people. But the aid response has been slowed by cut-off communications services and widespread power cuts.  
A further challenge is the fact that the movement of aid teams and supplies is only possible via one route, through the Afar region, which requires passing through multiple checkpoints, where humanitarian personnel have been interrogated, intimidated and in some instances detained, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). 
Extreme danger 
The operating environment in Tigray also remains extremely dangerous, said spokesperson Jens Laerke, noting that at least 12 aid workers had been killed to date, including on 24 June, when three Doctors Without Borders staff were murdered.  
Humanitarian funding also remains a major problem, as more than $430 million is still needed to fund the aid response in Tigray until the end of the year.   
In an appeal to all parties to the conflict, Mr. Laerke urged them to keep entry routes open to Tigray, to prevent large-scale loss of life, before appealing to the Ethiopian Government to allow humanitarians to bring in additional communications equipment, as well as provide longer visas for NGO staff. 
Permissions call 
The UN needs “critical communications equipment and longer-term visas for NGO staff” for its aid operation in Tigray, Mr. Laerke continued.  
According to OCHA, 5.2 million people &#8211; about 90 per cent of the population – are now in need of life-saving humanitarian assistance and hundreds of thousands are facing famine-like conditions.  
Mr. Laerke explained that the conflict in Tigray had started in the middle of the harvest season in November 2020, when a quarter of crops had already been ruined by locust swarms.  
More than 90 per cent of what was left of the harvest was then looted, burned, or flattened, making it critical that farmers are provided now with the tools, assistance and access they need to sow their crops, he added. 
Trauma of survivors 
Speaking of her own recent experience in the region, UNICEF’s Ms. Mercado noted that one young female survivor of sexual assault told her that “she watched her grandmother get killed, she was raped by several men and she watched her nine month old baby being tossed around by other men”. 
A doctor at a UNICEF supported referral centre in Mekelle, told her that he had been struck by the fact that in many cases it was not the assault itself, but rather the psychological damage it inflicts on children, women and health staff, that was most difficult to bear. 
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

100,000 Children in Tigray at Risk of Death from Malnutrition: UNICEF

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The Government of Zimbabwe through the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement (MoLAFWRR) with technical support from FAO launched a Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) aimed at strengthening agricultural extension services in Zimbabwe. The objective of the project is to improve access to extension and advisory services by smallholder agricultural producers in the country. The TCP, funded to the tune of US$500,000 will be implemented from January 2021 to December 2022 in four districts namely Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe and Mutoko in Mashonaland East province and Hurungwe and Chegutu in Mashonaland West province.

In the wake of COVID-19, Dr. John Basera, Permanent Secretary in the MoLAFWRR, officially launched the project virtually. Berhanu Berdane welcomed the delegates on behalf of FAO Sub-regional Coordinator for Southern Africa and Country Representative for Zimbabwe, Dr. Patrice Talla. In attendance were senior government officials, provincial and district MoLAFWRR officials and FAO technical experts.
“The government of Zimbabwe is very much aware of the critical and pivotal role agricultural extension and advisory services play in imparting practical knowledge and skills to farmers and are some of the key drivers of agricultural growth in the various plans and strategies. The extension capacitation drive entails increasing the mobility of extension staff through provision of motorcycles and fuel, increased interventions towards appropriate and relevant training opportunities as well as equipping extension officers with digital technologies for effective technical backstopping of farmers to adopt Good Agricultural Practices,” said Dr. Basera in his keynote address during the launch.
Revamping the agricultural sector is critical for reviving Zimbabwe’s economy. Frequent droughts and unstable macroeconomic conditions have continued to hinder the country’s ability to effectively deal with the pervasive low productivity in the sector resulting from many factors including, high cost of inputs, inadequate availability of quality inputs, unstable prices, liquidity challenges and weakened extension system. The Government of Zimbabwe with support from FAO has taken major steps in this by outlining the intentions and strategic focus for steering and implementing the Agriculture and Food Systems Transformation Strategy (2020-2030).
“The project will provide technical assistance to some innovative options to deal with the systemic extension challenges in the medium to long term. This initial technical assistance will prioritize enabling of extension services to reach more smallholder farmers, innovate with ICT platforms and support the initial steps for digitalization of the extension system,” said Berhanu Bedane in his remarks on behalf of Patrice Talla.
“The project will also cover the soil fertility enhancement initiative (soil pH correction blitz) which will equip 10 decentralized soil testing facilities throughout the country. In addition, farmers will be trained on emerging issues relating to climate proofing, agro-ecology and soil pH correction to enhance productivity,” he added.
During the launch, the Permanent Secretary reiterated the importance of collaboration and partnerships in achieving the Zimbabwe 2030 agenda as well as meeting the SDG targets especially SDG17, which focuses on strengthening the means of implementation, and revitalizing the global partnership for sustainable development. FAO will continue to provide support to government with other development partners. In the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, the model for farmer engagement will require innovative solutions given the challenges faced by the government extension staff. With demand-driven approaches, and pluralistic extension and advisory services, NGOs and private sector extension service providers will be coming on board.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FAO Regional Office for Africa.

Government, FAO join hands to strengthen agricultural extension services in Zimbabwe

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In response to growing needs in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, the United States is providing more than $149 million in additional humanitarian assistance, including more than $105 million from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The United States is the largest single donor of humanitarian aid to the Tigray response efforts, providing nearly $637 million since the conflict began.

USAID’s funding will address life-threatening hunger by providing more than 172,000 metric tons of wheat, yellow split peas, and vegetable oil—enough to feed five million people for nearly two months. This food is desperately needed and the Government of Ethiopia must allow it to reach Tigray. This assistance will also support case management for survivors of gender-based violence; training for social workers, medical staff, and community case workers; service centers to provide gender-based violence screenings and referrals; and safe spaces and psychosocial support for children affected by the conflict. 
The U.S. is also deeply concerned about increasing tensions and escalations, including the Tigrayan People’s Liberation Front’s (TPLF) expansion into Afar and the Ethiopian government’s decision to mobilize additional regional militias. Such expansion is exacerbating an already grave humanitarian situation for civilians in the affected regions and putting at risk the stability of the Ethiopian state. All parties to the conflict need to take immediate steps to end hostilities, secure a negotiated ceasefire, facilitate the delivery of critically needed humanitarian assistance to those in need, and preserve the national unity and territorial integrity of Ethiopia.  The United States urges both the Ethiopian government and the TPLF to embark immediately on discussions to achieve these critical objectives. 
The reality on the ground is that humanitarians face a constant stream of bureaucratic delays, demands for additional approvals, and ongoing conflict. Aid workers and convoys have been rigorously searched and attacked. All parties to the conflict must ensure the security and safety of aid workers—fourteen of whom have already lost their lives while helping others. Even now, there are more than 200 trucks waiting for a web of approvals. With these delays and impediments, humanitarian aid cannot possibly reach the scale required to address the vast needs. In addition, humanitarians need electricity, telecoms, banking, and fuel deliveries to be restored in order to conduct their life-saving work. Fuel shortages are particularly concerning &#8211; as aid organizations delivering relief supplies run low on gas &#8211; leading hospitals and water pumps that rely on generators to stop functioning. 
Even before these troubling developments, approximately 5.2 million out of six million people—or approximately 90 percent of the population in Tigray—were in need of humanitarian aid. USAID believes a famine may already be happening in Tigray, threatening the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. If humanitarian access does not vastly improve and the parties to the conflict do not pursue a political solution, the already catastrophic situation will get even worse. 
For the latest updates on U.S. humanitarian assistance for the Tigray response, visit: Ethiopia | Humanitarian Assistance | US Agency for International Development.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

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Inclusive vaccination and protection measures urgently needed to stop the new pandemic waves in North Africa

Coronavirus – South Africa: US Donates Pfizer Vaccine Doses to SA

Giacomo Nizzolo Powers to Victory at Circuito Gexto for Team Qhubeka NextHash

Coronavirus: Kenya has Received an Additional 410,000 Doses of AstraZeneca

Coronavirus – Niger: United States Donates Second Batch of 151,200 COVID-19 Vaccines to Niger

Mercenaries and Related Private Contractors Must Leave Libya to Pave Way for Peace, Elections – UN Experts

Rabies reported from West Rand, Gauteng Province

Coronavirus – Zambia: Brazil Partners with WFP to Provide Personal Protective Equipment to the Government of Zambia

100,000 Children in Tigray at Risk of Death from Malnutrition: UNICEF

Government, FAO join hands to strengthen agricultural extension services in Zimbabwe

United States Strengthens Efforts to Fight Famine in Tigray, Ethiopia with More Than $149 million in Additional Humanitarian Assistance

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Merck Foundation CEO and Zimbabwe First Lady co-chaired 2021 Annual Summit to continue building healthcare capacity, break infertility stigma and support girl education

Somali Government, UNICEF and WHO mark World Breastfeeding Week with a call to protect, promote and support breastfeeding

Thai engineers support displaced communities in South Sudan by training them on sustainable farming practices

Healing survivors of GBV (gender-based violence) in IDP (internally displaced persons) camps

Coronavirus – Nigeria: WHO supports Bauchi State to vaccinate Over 700,000 persons with oral cholera vaccines during reactive campaign

Coronavirus: Statement on COVID-19 in the Eastern Mediterranean Region

Inclusive vaccination and protection measures urgently needed to stop the new pandemic waves in North Africa

Coronavirus – South Africa: US Donates Pfizer Vaccine Doses to SA

Giacomo Nizzolo Powers to Victory at Circuito Gexto for Team Qhubeka NextHash

Coronavirus: Kenya has Received an Additional 410,000 Doses of AstraZeneca

Coronavirus – Niger: United States Donates Second Batch of 151,200 COVID-19 Vaccines to Niger

Mercenaries and Related Private Contractors Must Leave Libya to Pave Way for Peace, Elections – UN Experts

Rabies reported from West Rand, Gauteng Province

Coronavirus – Zambia: Brazil Partners with WFP to Provide Personal Protective Equipment to the Government of Zambia

100,000 Children in Tigray at Risk of Death from Malnutrition: UNICEF

Government, FAO join hands to strengthen agricultural extension services in Zimbabwe

United States Strengthens Efforts to Fight Famine in Tigray, Ethiopia with More Than $149 million in Additional Humanitarian Assistance

News Tips

Advertise With Us

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