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For over two decades, advocates have been waging a determined battle against misinformation, particularly within the Somali community where this misinformation has contributed to a troubling uptick in measles cases. Amid this persistent struggle, one question lingers: can more research help bridge the gap between myth and reality? Leading the charge is Mahdi Warsama, the Chief Executive Officer of the Somali Parents Autism Network (SPAN). In a recent interview, he reflects on their mission—not just to provide support for…

The Call for Continued Support in Somalia’s Fight Against Terrorism Mogadishu (AX) — The plight of Somalia has reached a point where the international community's attention is paramount. Recently, a United Nations expert vociferously urged global partners not to turn their backs on Somalia, as the nation grapples with persistent and intricate challenges in its battle against terrorism. During a detailed visit that concluded on Wednesday, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and counter-terrorism, Ben Saul, took a…

In Ghana, the contentious anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, formally known as the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, has resurfaced with renewed vigor. Originally passed by Parliament in February 2024, the bill has yet to be enacted, but its implications loom large. It stipulates severe penalties, proposing prison terms of up to three years for engaging in same-sex relations and five years for promoting LGBTQ+ rights. The nation's Supreme Court recently dismissed attempts to block this legislation. Their ruling underscored…

The EAC: A Beacon of Economic Growth in a Turbulent World In an era marked by numerous global challenges—from soaring inflation to supply chain disruptions—the East African Community (EAC) stands out as a remarkable example of resilience and growth. This regional bloc, encompassing seven partner nations—Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo—has achieved a substantial growth rate of 5.4%. This impressive figure is not merely a statistic; it is a reflection of…

Cardinal Robert Prevost has made a surprising but historic leap to leadership within the Catholic Church, adopting the name Leo XIV to mark a significant moment as the first Pope from the United States. Just 70 minutes after the iconic white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney, indicating the selection of a new pope by the 133 cardinal electors, Pope Leo XIV made his debut on the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. "Peace be with you all," he greeted the ecstatic crowd gathered below. The announcement was made…

As of March 2025, the East African Community (EAC) Secretariat has disclosed a troubling figure: member states collectively owe a staggering $58 million in contributions. This financial shortfall has sparked significant challenges for the bloc, leaving many to ponder the future of regional cooperation in East Africa. The pressing financial situation was the focal point of a recent meeting held by the EAC Council of Ministers in Arusha, Tanzania. There, leaders gathered to confront the crisis laid bare by a…

Marking World Malaria Day: A Community's Commitment to Health Mandera County recently joined the global community in commemorating World Malaria Day, a day dedicated not just to raising awareness but also to catalyzing action for one of the world’s oldest and most persistent diseases. This year, the focus was on prevention, with a particular emphasis on supplying mosquito nets to those who need them most—specifically pregnant women and mothers with newborns. The theme for this year’s event, "Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,"…

Public Prayer for Pope Francis at St. Peter's Square In a heartfelt display of unity and support, a public prayer for Pope Francis is scheduled to take place at St. Peter's Square. This gathering not only emphasizes the deep connection between the Pope and the global community but also underscores the importance of spiritual solidarity during challenging times. "In times of crisis, prayer is a powerful tool that binds us together," said a representative from the…

Reimagining Emergency Medical Services in Africa: A Conversation with Emergency Response Africa CEO, Folake Owodunni The recent Prehospital Emergency Care Stakeholder Summit: Beyond the Ambulance held in Lagos was more than just another healthcare conference. It brought together passionate healthcare leaders, dedicated policymakers, innovative tech entrepreneurs, and committed community advocates—all united by a common goal: reshaping emergency medical services (EMS) in Africa. Sitting down for a reflective…

Austrian authorities have announced the arrest of 15 individuals in connection with a disturbing series of hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ community. Following coordinated raids across the country, the police apprehended 12 men and three women who are suspected of engaging in assaults and robberies masquerading as acts of "vigilante justice." In a statement, law enforcement officials noted that the suspects claimed their actions were intended to “combat paedophiles.” These individuals allegedly resorted to creating…