Health and medicine

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) finds itself at a critical juncture, issuing a 21-day ultimatum aimed squarely at the federal government. The stakes are high, as the association threatens nationwide industrial action unless urgent attention is paid to pressing issues surrounding salaries, allowances, and overall welfare. When medical professionals raise their voices in unison, it is not just a flurry of words; it's a call for action that demands to be heard. Bala Audu, President of the NMA, recently expressed…

Recent reports have surfaced suggesting that the Zimbabwean government is allegedly backing the controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo in his ambitious bid to supply over $400 million worth of medical drugs and equipment through his South African company, TTM Global Medical Exports (Pvt). This proposition, while highly lucrative, raises significant ethical and legal questions. Wicknell Chivayo, a name synonymous with both ambition and controversy, is officially listed as a director on the company’s website. TTM Global…

The latest reports from Nigeria reveal a concerning uptick in Lassa fever cases. In week 23 of 2025 alone, health officials documented 11 new infections, pushing the grim tally of fatalities to 143 this year. These figures starkly illustrate the persistent threat posed by this viral infection. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has observed a significant rise in the case fatality rate (CFR) among those afflicted by confirmed Lassa fever cases; alarmingly, this rate has surpassed that of the same…

The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, has recently issued a stark warning: mpox remains a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This designation underlines the potential global threat posed by the disease, prompting urgent attention and action across nations. Dr. Ghebreyesus highlighted a troubling trend: an increase in mpox cases, particularly alarming is the recent spike in West Africa. “There is likely undetected transmission in countries beyond the…

The ongoing strike by nurses and midwives has effectively paralyzed the country's healthcare system, prompting urgent calls from the government for the striking professionals to "reconsider" their actions. This drastic move is not just about wages; it embodies deeper systemic frustrations that have simmered for years. Imagine waking up in an emergency room, only to find minimal staff and a mountain of unattended patients. Such is the reality now faced by many hospitals, where the very individuals who dedicate their lives…

The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) has recently raised concerns over the sharp uptick in mpox cases across the nation. With 69 "active cases" reported, the situation demands attention. This surge isn't just a local phenomenon; NPHIL has confirmed that these viral strains are highly infectious and have crossed borders into neighboring countries. In response, authorities are urging schools, places of worship, and businesses to take precautionary measures. Imagine entering a bustling market and noticing…

The Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) have urgently appealed to lawmakers for increased funding to tackle the ongoing mpox outbreak. Currently, four active cases have been confirmed. This request emerged during a recent public hearing, where the House of Representatives invited health officials to shed light on the troubling resurgence of the disease. Dugbeh Chris Nyan, the head of NPHIL, emphasized the critical need for resources to enhance the institute's operations and…

At the recent 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, an impressive coalition of world leaders and philanthropic organizations came together, collectively pledging over $170 million to bolster the efforts of the World Health Organization (WHO). These contributions are not merely funds; they signify a commitment to global health at a time when it is desperately needed. This financial injection aligns with WHO's ongoing Investment Round, which supports its 14th General Programme of Work. This ambitious initiative aims to save…

In a striking revelation, a recent report from ActionAid—the international development agency—illuminates the grim reality of healthcare in Liberia. It starkly highlights that a staggering 97 percent of health workers earn salaries insufficient to meet even the most basic living expenses. Titled "The Human Cost of Public Sector Cuts in Africa," this report extends its scrutiny beyond Liberia, analyzing the healthcare challenges faced by five additional African nations. Imagine dedicating your life to healing others, only…

The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has sounded the alarm: a staggering number of individuals in West and Central Africa are grappling with unprecedented levels of hunger. Amidst a backdrop of armed conflict, widespread displacement, economic turmoil, and relentless extreme weather, the region teeters perilously on the edge of a humanitarian crisis. From June to August alone, over 36 million individuals faced challenges in meeting even their most basic food requirements. Alarmingly, projections indicate that this figure could…