International Organizations and Africa

Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is on the rise across Africa, and health officials are sounding the alarm about the risks of becoming too relaxed. According to a recent update from the World Health Organization (WHO), numerous regions on the continent are grappling with outbreaks linked to several virus variants, or clades. As of December 1, 2024, WHO reported that over 13,000 cases have been confirmed in 20 distinct nations. This report sheds light on the fact that different clades have different modes of transmission. For…

Health officials in Rwanda have officially declared the end of the Marburg outbreak, marking a significant milestone more than 40 days after the last patient tested negative and was released from the hospital. During the outbreak, authorities recorded approximately 60 cases of the disease, leading to 15 tragic deaths. Minister of Health Sabin Nsanzimana shared insights during a recent briefing attended by representatives from the World Health Organization and various members of the diplomatic community, stating, “We have a…

Burundi, a country known for its significant role in the African Union's peacekeeping missions in Somalia, has made the decision to withdraw from the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) due to disagreements regarding troop numbers. This withdrawal marks a notable shift, especially considering Burundi's longstanding commitment to stabilizing the region over the past 17 years. The crux of the issue lies in the allocation of troops; Somalia proposed deploying just 1,041 soldiers from Burundi, a figure that the…

In a recent address, President Filipe Nyusi, who is nearing the end of his current term, urged for a constructive dialogue aimed at resolving the unrest that has swept through the nation over the past few weeks. These protests erupted following the October 9 elections, during which Daniel Chapo, the candidate for the ruling Frelimo party, was announced as the victor. Nyusi expressed his concerns, noting that the ongoing violence is detrimental to Mozambique's economy, stating that it “restricts business operations and port…

The landscape of childhood is undergoing profound transformations, with UNICEF's latest flagship report, ‘The State of the World’s Children 2024: The Future of Childhood in a Changing World,’ shedding light on these crucial shifts just in time for World Children’s Day. This insightful report delves into the repercussions of three impending global trends that are redefining the lives of young people worldwide. It highlights alarming statistics, revealing that children now face a staggering eightfold increase in exposure to…

In a groundbreaking move, South Africa has stepped into the G20 presidency, marking a historic milestone as the first African nation to take the helm of this influential assembly of countries. The upcoming term is set to officially kick off on December 1, 2024, and will extend for a full calendar year. President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his profound gratitude upon receiving the presidency from Brazil during the G20 summit held in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro. “I stand here humbled and honored to accept the G20…

Human rights advocates are strongly encouraging the authorities in Mozambique to take decisive action against the ongoing repression and violence directed at protesters challenging the questionable election results. The Committee to Protect Journalists has painted a grim picture of the situation, stating that the nation has "plunged into turmoil as security forces engage in violent confrontations." Disturbingly, they report that at least nine journalists have faced assault or arrest, while two foreign correspondents have…

Chidimma Adetshina has carved out a significant milestone in history, becoming the first Nigerian to clinch the title of first runner-up at the prestigious 73rd Miss Universe pageant. In the wake of this remarkable achievement, Adetshina took to Instagram to share her heartfelt appreciation. She reminisced about the unwavering support she received from Nigerians during her most challenging times. "Together, we find strength," she noted, highlighting how the vast African continent has imparted lessons on the essence of unity…

Mia le Roux, South Africa's representative, has decided to withdraw from the Miss Universe finals taking place in Mexico due to health issues, as announced by the pageant organizers. This sudden decision means South Africa will not have a contestant at the 73rd Miss Universe event. In a public statement, the Miss South Africa organization emphasized that le Roux's health is their "number one priority." They pledged unwavering support until she makes a full recovery. It’s worth noting that le Roux made history by becoming…

By the year 2025, Nigeria could see a staggering 33 million individuals grappling with severe food scarcity—almost double the current figures for those in dire need. This dire situation stems from a confluence of economic challenges, soaring inflation, the effects of climate change, and the ongoing violence that plagues the northeastern regions of the country. In the northwest, specifically in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, over five million people currently experience acute food insecurity, and the crisis is anticipated to…