Somali Defense Minister Dismisses Ex-President Sheikh Sharif’s Mogadishu Security Warning

Somalia defense minister rebukes ex-president’s warning on Mogadishu security, says critics undermine reforms MOGADISHU — Somalia’s defense minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, on Thursday rejected former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed’s assertion that Mogadishu remains unsafe, accusing the opposition figure of eroding confidence in security gains and obstructing the country’s political transition. In a statement posted on Facebook, Fiqi said Sheikh Sharif and allies in the Council of National Salvation have consistently…

Regional Leaders Introduce One Health Initiative at Lusaka Ceremony

Zambia Hosts Historic One Health Conference to Foster Regional Cooperation In a significant move towards enhancing health systems across Eastern and Southern Africa, government ministers from Zambia and neighboring countries have launched the One Health Regional Call to Action. This initiative was unveiled during the inaugural Eastern and Southern Africa Regional One Health Conference held in Lusaka, highlighting a collaborative approach to health and environmental challenges. Ministers from health, agriculture, and…

Regional Leaders Unveil One Health Initiative at Lusaka Ceremony

One Health Regional Call to Action Launched in Zambia In a pivotal moment for public health in Eastern and Southern Africa, government ministers have signed a landmark One Health Regional Call to Action during the inaugural Eastern and Southern Africa Regional One Health Conference in Lusaka, Zambia. This initiative aims to enhance the interconnected health of people, animals, plants, and ecosystems across the SADC Member States. Event marked by commitment from Ministers of Health, Agriculture, and Environment.…

6 Dinner Recipes to Help Shed Belly Fat in 30 Days

The content primarily focuses on actionable information related to healthy eating, specifically providing practical insights into foods that help control hunger and support belly fat loss. It discusses specific food items and their nutritional benefits, backed by expert insights about how they contribute to weight loss and health. Thus, the most suitable format for this content is: Healthy Eating By Ali Musa Axadle Wellness Desk – Health & Nutrition Monitoring.

Kenyan Court Halts $1.6B U.S. Health Deal Amid Data Privacy Challenge

Kenya’s High Court on Thursday temporarily halted a $1.6 billion Kenya–U.S. Health Cooperation Framework, citing privacy concerns over the transfer of Kenyans’ medical and epidemiological data. Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued conservatory orders after the Consumers Federation of Kenya petitioned the court to stop implementation until the state provides safeguards for how sensitive health information would be handled. In an interim ruling, the judge paused any move by the State Law Office, the Senate and other government…

EU approves €3 import fee on small parcels from non-EU countries

EU finance ministers have agreed to impose a €3 duty on every small parcel imported into the 27-nation bloc starting 1 July next year, a measure aimed at stemming a flood of ultra-cheap e-commerce shipments from platforms such as Shein and Temu. The flat levy follows the bloc’s move last month to scrap a duty exemption for direct-to-consumer packages valued at less than €150. An EU spokesperson said the €3 charge will be temporary and will remain in place until member states settle on a permanent approach to taxing the…

Congo-Brazzaville Advises Citizens to Confirm Details Before 2026 Elections

Congolese Electoral Commission Urges Voter Verification Ahead of 2026 Presidential Election The electoral commission in the Republic of Congo is urging registered voters to verify their names on the provisional voter's roll in preparation for the upcoming presidential elections. This call to action is accompanied by banners displayed throughout Brazzaville, highlighting the critical nature of this verification process. As the nation gears up for the 2026 presidential election, President Denis Sassou Nguesso, now 81 years…

UNICEF: Flooding puts Gaza tent communities on brink of catastrophe

UNICEF warns of ‘catastrophe’ as heavy rains flood Gaza displacement camps, children left soaked and sick Severe rains have flooded makeshift encampments across Gaza, creating a “catastrophe” for thousands of displaced families living under tarps and plastic sheeting, UNICEF said, warning that existing supplies are “completely insufficient” to protect children from cold, illness and contaminated water. Jonathan Crickx, UNICEF’s spokesperson in Palestine, said the agency has documented widespread flooding and worsening…

Somali clan militias kill al-Shabaab fighters during operation near Beledweyne

Ma'awisley militia kills several al-Shabaab militants near Beledweyne in Dhoqor raid BELEDWEYNE, Somalia — Local clan militia forces known as Ma'awisley killed several al-Shabaab militants during a targeted operation Thursday in Dhoqor, an area along the Shabelle River about 25 kilometers from Beledweyne in the Hiiraan region, according to local sources. The strike, carried out by three militia members, also resulted in the seizure of weapons from two of the dead fighters, the sources said. News of the incident spread…

Congo’s Young Women Share Harrowing Stories of Sexual Violence by M23

Unyielding Horror: Sexual Violence Escalates in Eastern Congo Eastern Congo remains entangled in brutal conflict as sexual violence escalates, affecting thousands. Survivors recount harrowing experiences, revealing the persistent use of rape as a weapon of war. M23 rebels, government soldiers, and militias accused of systemic sexual violence. UNICEF reports alarming rates of child rape, calling it an unprecedented crisis. Attempts at peace remain ineffective, with ongoing violence displacing hundreds of…