The World Health Organisation requires that patient data be collected with informed consent, used only for healthcare purposes, and kept confidential. Ghana’s Data Protection Act, 2012, also provides similar protections for personal data.

Ghana declined the proposal, citing concerns over data privacy and the protection of its citizens’ information.

Questions have also been raised about the purpose of the data request.

Experts have warned that the arrangement could go beyond health cooperation. The data and biological samples could potentially be used for research and development of drugs, vaccines , and gene therapies, which may later be commercialised.

The proposal has received mixed responses from other countries. Zimbabwe and Zambia rejected the offer. Kenya initially signed but faced legal challenges after a petition was filed in court. Other countries, including Nigeria, Rwanda, Uganda, Lesotho, Eswatini, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, the Dominican Republic, and Cambodia, are reported to have signed similar agreements, with a total of 32 countries participating.

In one recent livestream shared by First Lady Rosângela “Janja” da Silva, Lula is seen finishing a 45-minute treadmill run before moving into squats, at one point with weights strapped to his ankles. A white towel draped around his neck, he cuts the figure of a veteran politician intent on demonstrating physical resilience.

But the routine goes beyond optics. Lula has repeatedly stressed the role of discipline in maintaining health, telling followers that while ageing is inevitable, physical decline is not. In social media posts accompanying the videos, he has linked regular exercise to longevity and quality of life, suggesting that consistent habits can extend one’s active years well into old age .

With a significantly younger rival expected to challenge him, Lula’s message is clear: endurance matters. And for a politician with decades in public life, staying in shape is not just about health—it is about proving he can go the distance once again.

The report said progress in reducing child deaths has slowed sharply. Under-five deaths have fallen by more than half since 2000, but the pace of reduction has slowed by more than 60% since 2015.

“No child should die from diseases that we know how to prevent. But we see worrying signs that progress in child survival is slowing – and at a time where we’re seeing further global budget cuts,” UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said.

Newborn deaths now account for nearly half of all under-five mortality worldwide. The report linked those deaths mainly to preterm birth complications, problems during labour and delivery, and infections.

Among children aged one to 59 months, infectious diseases remained a leading cause of death. The nine leading infections accounted for 43% of under-five deaths globally. Pneumonia, diarrhoea and malaria remained major killers, especially in high-burden settings.

For the first time, the report gave a global estimate of deaths directly caused by severe acute malnutrition. More than 100,000 children aged between one month and five died from it in 2024. Some of the highest numbers were recorded in Pakistan, Somalia and Sudan.

Deaths were heavily concentrated in a small group of countries. These included Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Niger and Nigeria . The report said conflict, climate shocks, invasive mosquitoes, drug resistance and weak access to prevention and treatment continued to drive mortality there.

Children in fragile and conflict-affected settings were nearly three times more likely to die before their fifth birthday than children elsewhere.

The UN also estimated that 2.1 million children, adolescents and young people aged five to 24 died in 2024. Li Junhua, the UN’s under-secretary-general for economic and social affairs, called the findings “a stark reminder” that many countries are off track to meet child survival targets under the Sustainable Development Goals.

Abortions remain illegal in the predominantly Catholic country, with both patients and providers facing prison terms of up to six years. As a result, many Filipinas rely on informal networks and online forums where unlicensed sellers advertise abortifacients, often without proper medical guidance.

“It was very painful, as if my abdomen was being twisted,” Jane said, recounting how a purported doctor inserted a pill into her cervix without anaesthesia during a follow-up visit.

She added that she was warned not to disclose the abortion if complications arose. “I heard stories that some women were reported to the police , ignored or left to die when they reached the hospital,” the 31-year-old said.

Although post-abortion care has been legal for more than a decade, access remains limited. Many healthcare providers are reluctant to offer treatment due to fears of legal repercussions or losing their professional licenses.

According to Junice Melgar of the Likhaan Center for Women's Health , which serves low-income communities in Manila, the situation places both patients and providers in a difficult position.

“I believe that a lot of providers would like to help. They might find it ethical, but it’s a scary proposition for them,” she said.

The ongoing restrictions continue to drive vulnerable women toward unsafe alternatives, raising concerns among health advocates about the risks to women’s lives and wellbeing.

The NCC stressed that licences are only for cannabis with a THC content of not more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis.

The Commission said the regime covers two main areas; industrial production, including fibre and seeds for manufacturing and medicinal use, aimed at supporting pharmaceutical and health-related products.

Applicants, including individuals and companies, can apply under 11 licensing categories, such as cultivation, processing, breeding, research and development, laboratory testing, storage, transportation , import and export, sales and distribution, and advertising and promotion.

To streamline applications, the NCC has introduced an online application system through its website. Applicants must complete a digital form, upload required documents and pay a non-refundable application fee, the Commission said.

Higher sodium levels would face higher tax rates, similar to the structure used for Thailand’s sugar tax introduced in 2017.

Foods prepared and sold on-site, including fast food, would be exempt from the levy.

This tax would likely be rolled out in phases to allow manufacturers time to adjust product formulations. Under the proposal, the highest-sodium products could initially face lower tax rates for at least six years before stricter thresholds take effect.

“The goal is to encourage manufacturers to reformulate their products and gradually reduce sodium content,” said Rachada Wanikakorn, deputy director-general of the Excise Department.

She noted that implementing a salt tax may be more complicated than the sugar levy because sodium has fewer substitutes in food production.

Why the need for such a tax?

The policy proposal comes as Thailand grapples with widespread excessive sodium intake.

A national health survey conducted in 2024 to 2025 found that Thais aged 15 and above consume an average of about 3,650 milligrams of sodium daily — nearly double the World Health Organization’s recommended maximum of 2,000 milligrams.

The study, carried out by Ramathibodi Hospital with the Health Systems Research Institute and the ThaiHealth Foundation, found that about 88% of the population exceeds the recommended daily sodium intake. 

Health authorities warn that excessive sodium intake is contributing to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in the country, including hypertension, kidney disease and cardiovascular conditions .

The government aims to reduce sodium consumption by 30% by 2030 under its Strategic Approach to Lower Sodium and Salt (SALTS) strategy.

Mixed reactions

But the proposed policy drew cheers and jeers, with supporters saying a tax could push manufacturers to lower sodium levels in processed foods and help reshape dietary habits.

For critics, however, such levies could disproportionately affect lower-income households, which tend to rely more heavily on inexpensive packaged foods. Others note that salty ingredients, including fish sauce, are deeply embedded in Thai cuisine, potentially limiting the effectiveness of the measure.

Similar public health taxes in countries such as Hungary and Colombia have produced mixed results, with debate continuing over their long-term impact on food consumption.

Sapien Labs founder and chief scientist Dr Tara Thiagarajan says the issue is bigger than depression and anxiety. “The mind health crisis appears to be a progressive slide from generation to generation,” she said, with many young adults struggling with emotional control, focus and relationship management.

The report points to early-life smartphone use, diet changes, weaker family bonds and declining spirituality as key drivers, and argues the gap widened sharply around the Covid-19 period and has persisted since.

Further, the report calls for policy responses including tighter rules on phone use in schools, minimum ages for social media access and closer scrutiny of additives in ultra-processed foods.

Ghana tops the list for youth mind health, followed by Nigeria, Kenya , Zimbabwe and Tanzania, while several high-income countries rank near the bottom.

Sapien Labs measures mind health using the Mind Health Quotient (MHQ), a composite score that reflects emotional, cognitive, social and physical functioning, the capacities people rely on to manage life, work and relationships.

Researchers link the global decline to factors including early smartphone exposure, ultra-processed food consumption, weakening family bonds and reduced spirituality. They say parts of sub-Saharan Africa score better on some of these indicators, including later smartphone adoption and stronger spiritual and family connections.

Tanzania , for example, ranks highly on spirituality measures and reports a later average age of first smartphone use.

According to Silayo, 70 honey samples were collected from 34 districts and tested in Germany to verify quality for export markets.

“Our country has the opportunity to access the European Union market and other international markets because 96 per cent of our honey has been proven globally to meet high-quality standards,” he is quoted .

Silayo urged honey producers to avoid using non-standard processing equipment and poor storage containers, warning that quality lapses could undermine export opportunities.

He also said TFS is pushing for more investment in honey processing, noting Tanzania currently has 97 medium and large processing factories. The agency is finalising construction of a new honey processing plant in Nzega, Tabora Region, and rehabilitating two others in Manyoni District and at the Sao Hill tree plantation in Mafinga District.

TFS said production of bee products has risen to an average of 33,861 tonnes, up from 31,179 tonnes, while honey exports have reached 9,500 tonnes valued at 93.3 billion shillings.

Adopted by world leaders in 2015, the 17 SDGs aim to end extreme poverty and hunger, expand access to clean water and sanitation, ensure quality education and tackle climate change by the end of the decade.

ESCAP described the findings as a “stark contradiction”: while millions have been lifted out of poverty and access to electricity has expanded rapidly, environmental pressures are intensifying and inequality remains entrenched.

Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, ESCAP’s Executive Secretary and a UN undersecretary-general, said the growth model that fuelled rapid industrialisation is now undermining the region’s future.

“The very engines of growth that once lifted millions out of poverty and fuelled rapid industrialization are now undermining our future,” she said, urging countries to pursue development that is “smarter, healthier and more just.”

The sharpest setbacks are in environmental goals. Progress on climate action, marine conservation and biodiversity is not only stalling but reversing, the report found.

Where Asia-Pacific is lagging behind

Greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, while the Red List Index shows accelerating species loss. Marine ecosystems are deteriorating, sustainable fisheries are shrinking and freshwater systems are under mounting stress.

Urban resilience is also weakening. Although many governments have adopted disaster risk reduction strategies, the human and economic toll of disasters is increasing, exposing a gap between planning and preparedness.

Health outcomes have improved, with sustained declines in maternal, neonatal and under-five mortality. Income poverty has fallen significantly over the past decades, and near-universal mobile network coverage has supported advances in industry and infrastructure .

However, inequality remains persistent. Labour income shares are declining, labour rights compliance is slipping and informal employment and weak youth job prospects continue to pose challenges. Education access has expanded, but minimum proficiency in reading and mathematics is deteriorating.

While 55% of SDG indicators in Asia-Pacific now have sufficient data for assessment — above the global average — gaps in gender equality and governance data limit policymakers’ ability to track progress among vulnerable groups.

With five years remaining to the 2030 deadline, ESCAP said incremental change will not be enough: “Our current development trajectory is unsustainable, and the window for corrective action is closing rapidly.”

"Through MASAMO, we are strengthening kitchen human resources while encouraging creative industry participation to raise culinary standards and generate tangible local economic impact,” said Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya.

The program targets cooks at Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG), providing hands-on training in menu quality, hygiene, ingredient management and nutrition, following National Nutrition Agency standards.

The latest session, held at SPPG Rajabasa 3 in Lampung, involves ministry officials, provincial and city governments, kitchen managers, kitchenware producer Oxone, and MasterChef Indonesia judge Chef Norman Ismail.

Fifty SPPG cooks participated in intensive sessions covering food safety, healthy cooking and efficient operations, equipping them to serve consistent, nutritious meals to beneficiaries.

In an exclusive interview with Global South World , Dadan Hindayana, head of Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency, said MBG is set to serve nearly 83 million people in just its second year of operations.

This reach already rivals that of major global chains, such as McDonald’s, which has 69 million daily customers.

Hindayana had also said the initiative boosts local economies by employing workers at each service unit and sourcing ingredients from dozens of local suppliers. The program has also proven vital in crisis relief. During recent cyclones and floods , kitchens ramped up production to serve millions of meals efficiently.

Despite early food safety challenges, measures such as certified water use and strict hygiene protocols are reducing incidents, with Rp335 trillion ($20 billion) earmarked for the program in 2026.

President John Dramani Mahama has called on African leaders to prioritise funding for gender equality , warning that without sustained investment, the continent’s development will remain incomplete. Speaking at a high-level meeting in Addis Ababa, he said achieving Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals depends on unlocking the full potential of women, whom he described as Africa’s most underutilised resource. He added that despite longstanding commitments, gender initiatives remain chronically underfunded and are often the first to face cuts during periods of fiscal constraint.

Ghana to expand visa waivers as passport strength rises

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced plans to s ign more visa waiver agreements in the coming months to strengthen the global standing of the Ghanaian passport. Speaking after bilateral meetings at the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, he described visa waivers as a key priority and signalled major announcements from March through May. Ablakwa said Ghana is positioning its passport among the most valuable in Africa, citing upgraded chip-embedded technology, enhanced security features and expanded travel access.

Three major hospitals accused of defying GHS directive in hit-and-run death

A 29-year-old engineer, Charles Amissah, died after being turned away by three major hospitals in Accra despite a Ghana Health Service directive banning the denial of emergency care over bed shortages. According to reports, he remained in an ambulance outside the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, the Police Hospital and Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital for nearly three hours before dying, in what has been described as another case of ‘no-bed syndrome’. In 2018, the GHS ordered that no emergency patient should be refused treatment due to a lack of beds, following a similar incident involving a 70-year-old man who was reportedly rejected by several hospitals before his death.

Outrage over alleged Russian luring Ghanaian women into filmed encounters

Between 12 and 13 February 2026, Ghanaian social media, particularly X, was dominated by controversy surrounding a man claiming to be Russian and identifying himself as Yaytseslav. Videos circulating online show him approaching women, mainly at Accra Mall, striking up conversations and recording the interactions . Posts allege that some encounters extend beyond first contact, with the footage later edited into content for his TikTok and YouTube pages. Users claim dozens of such videos involving Ghanaian women are publicly available, while additional material is reportedly shared via a private Telegram channel said to charge a monthly subscription of about $5.

Two siblings found dead in unsecured manhole

A family at Abokobi near Somanya is in mourning after two young brothers drowned in an uncovered manhole at their home. The boys, Jason Teye Mensah, 8, and Nathaniel Ayernor Kofi, 9, went missing after returning from school and were later found dead in the manhole around 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 12. Fire Service personnel helped retrieve the bodies, which have been taken to the Yilo Krobo District Hospital for autopsy. Police have confirmed the incident and begun investigations.

Under the proposal , consultation fees for patients will rise modestly, including a new inflation-related surcharge. Basic hospitalization fees will also increase, alongside higher out-of-pocket costs for hospital meals and utilities for long-term patients. 

The changes will be introduced in stages beginning this year.

One major goal of the fee increase is to help medical institutions cope with inflation. Rising energy, food and equipment costs have squeezed hospital finances, particularly smaller facilities in rural areas.

Another priority is boosting wages for healthcare workers, as existing surcharges that allow hospitals to collect additional fees if they raise nurses’ pay will be expanded, and institutions that increase salaries for younger doctors will also become eligible. 

The overall revision will increase medical service fees by an average of 3.09% over two years, while official drug prices will be cut by 0.87%. 

By adjusting service and pharmaceutical costs separately, the government aims to balance financial sustainability with patient access.

Old population

The reform also reflects structural pressures from Japan’s demographics. With one of the world ’s oldest populations, demand for chronic care, long-term hospitalization and complex treatments continues to grow. Policymakers are using fee incentives to guide the system’s direction without sharply increasing total spending.

To improve quality and efficiency, the review promotes telemedicine and digital tools, including support for artificial intelligence , voice recognition and online consultations. Hospitals performing advanced procedures such as robot-assisted surgeries will also see fee adjustments.

At the same time, authorities are tightening rules around certain practices. Facilities that fail to reduce the use of physical restraints may face lower payments, while new fees will encourage hospitals to accept emergency patients from depopulated regions.

The countries at greatest risk in Asia include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand , Uzbekistan and Vietnam.

Asia’s large population , the study noted, makes the region particularly vulnerable. 

"Asia's scale means that when health systems fail, the human cost is immense, and in 21 countries across the region, decades of development gains are now at risk of being reversed," said Deepali Khanna, senior vice president and head of Asia at the Rockefeller Foundation.

“These outcomes are not inevitable, but avoiding them requires country-led financing and resilient, self-reliant systems that can protect the most vulnerable and save lives,” Khanna added.

Children most affected

Millions of lives, the study warned, could be lost if development gains achieved over the last two decades are reversed, with children being especially vulnerable to the effects of a potential aid pullback. 

Without sustained aid, around 5.4 million children under the age of five could die, according to the study.

Dr. Davide Rasella, study coordinator at ISGlobal, said that development assistance is “among the most effective global health interventions available,” adding that withdrawing support now could reverse decades of progress, leading directly to millions of preventable deaths.

Over the past 20 years, aid has saved millions of lives across the 93 countries analysed. 

Child mortality fell by 39%, deaths from HIV/AIDS by 70%, and deaths from malaria and nutritional deficiencies by 56%. Aid has also strengthened healthcare systems and improved preparedness for disease outbreaks.

The study models two scenarios for the period 2025–2030. A mild defunding scenario, with a 10.6 per cent yearly reduction, could result in 9.4 million preventable deaths, including 2.5 million children under five. A severe scenario could see the loss of 22.6 million lives.

The study builds on previous research showing the potential impact of dismantling USAID, which alone could have caused 14 million preventable deaths by 2030. The new analysis includes all OECD donor countries, offering a comprehensive assessment of global aid defunding.

The group referenced Nigeria’s decision to ban sachet alcohol, which was driven by data from a national survey revealing that nearly one in ten children under the age of 13 drinks alcohol daily.

VAST-Ghana raised concerns about the design and marketing of sachet alcohol. Typically containing alcohol levels of 43% or more, the small and low-cost packaging makes it easily accessible and concealable by school children. The group stated, “This situation leads to alcohol abuse, addiction, physiological damage such as liver damage, even from small amounts, and long-term health problems, as early exposure is particularly harmful to developing bodies.”

The organisation described the normalisation of sachet alcohol near schools and transport terminals as “a threat to our national security and future human capital”. VAST-Ghana also cited a May 2025 study published in BMC Public Health, which found alcohol to be the most commonly used substance among Ghanaian students, with some beginning consumption as early as age 10.

Alcohol consumption is linked to the development of noncommunicable diseases such as liver and heart diseases, several types of cancer, and mental and behavioural health issues, including depression and alcohol use disorders, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Global data from 2019 showed that approximately 400 million people, or 7% of the world’s population aged 15 and older, had alcohol use disorders. Among these, 209 million individuals were living with alcohol dependence.

The push for policy change in Ghana follows Nigeria’s ban on sachet and small-sized alcohol bottles under 200ml, implemented by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The ban specifically targets the affordability and accessibility of small alcohol packs to minors.

A survey conducted by NAFDAC across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones revealed that 54% of minors purchase alcohol themselves, with a preference for sachets and small bottles due to their discreet size. The same data showed that nearly one in ten children under 13 consumes alcohol daily.

Defending the ban, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, said : “Access to alcohol by children can be limited if pack sizes that can be easily concealed are not available. A ban on small pack sizes... can reduce the menace of underage drinking.”

According to the Toxinological Society of Nigeria, nearly 1,900 people die from snakebites annually. However, the real figure could be higher due to underreporting, especially in remote areas where victims rely on traditional remedies.

Antivenom is expensive, with a single dose costing between ₦180,000 and ₦250,000 (approximately $120 - $170), more than four months’ income for Nigerians earning the minimum wage. Many patients require multiple doses, pushing treatment far beyond what most families can afford.

Studies show that about half of Nigeria’s health facilities lack the capacity to treat snakebite cases, either because they do not stock antivenom or because health workers are not trained to administer it. “Nigeria records thousands of snakebites every year, yet even specialised hospitals often do not have antivenom in stock,” said Dr Nicholas Amani of the Snakebite Hospital and Research Centre in Gombe State.

Further, a Professor of Medical Microbiology at the University of Jos, Plateau State, Patricia Lar added that; “The anti-snake venom problem is that in our country, we’re not committed to the production of the anti-snake venom. We have the science, we have people who are knowledgeable about it, but there is the general problem of a lack of commitment, concerted efforts to develop and produce on a large scale the anti-snake venom. So Nigeria imports, and there are wide varieties from India, China, and from the UK, and that is the reason the cost is exorbitant, and you don’t find it in every hospital or in primary healthcare centres where people should easily access it.”

Adding; “We need expertise and a general awareness of the first line of action, which is primary health care. There is a need for this anti-snake venom to be readily available and to be administered in the event of a bite by a poisonous snake.”

Following recent high-profile deaths linked to snakebites, medical professionals and lawmakers have renewed calls for the government to subsidise antivenom, expand local production and make the treatment freely available nationwide.

According to the figures, South America and parts of Europe are among the best-resourced regions. Countries such as Argentina stand out globally, with more than 200 psychologists per 100,000 people, placing them among the highest in the world.

Chile and Uruguay also show strong coverage, reflecting long-standing investment in mental health services and professional training. In Western Europe, nations like Germany, France, and the Nordic countries report relatively high psychologist density, supported by public healthcare systems that integrate mental health into primary care.

By contrast, the picture is far more concerning across Africa, South Asia , and parts of the Middle East. WHO data show that many countries in these regions have fewer than one psychologist per 100,000 people, and in some cases, no formally registered psychologists at all.

In India and China, despite their large populations, the number of psychologists per capita remains extremely low. Sub-Saharan Africa faces the most severe shortages, where mental health services are often delivered by non-specialists due to a lack of trained professionals.

High-income countries outside Europe also show mixed results. The United States has roughly 30 psychologists per 100,000 people, while Canada sits higher at close to 50. Australia, however, ranks among global leaders with over 100 psychologists per 100,000, reflecting strong government funding, insurance coverage, and public awareness around mental health.

The WHO has repeatedly warned that the global mental health workforce crisis is one of the most urgent public health challenges of the decade. Mental and substance-use disorders account for a significant share of global disability, yet less than 2% of national health budgets are typically allocated to mental health in low- and middle-income countries.

WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, stresses this phenomenon with “Transforming mental health services is one of the most pressing public health challenges. Investing in mental health means investing in people, communities, and economies – an investment no country can afford to neglect. Every government and every leader has a responsibility to act with urgency and to ensure that mental health care is treated not as a privilege, but as a basic right for all.”

As a result , thousands of cannabis shops have closed. Health Ministry data shows that of 8,636 shop licences that expired in 2025, only 15.5% were renewed. More than 7,000 businesses chose to shut down.

Under the new rules, cannabis flower is now classified as a “controlled herb” and can only be purchased with a prescription from a licensed medical professional. Customers are limited to a 30-day supply.

Tourists can still access medical cannabis, but only after consulting a Thai doctor and obtaining a medical certificate, a process that makes casual purchases far less common.

Dispensaries are also now required to employ licensed medical or traditional medicine practitioners on-site.

Other restrictions include a ban on cannabis advertising, prohibition of online sales, and rules against selling in certain public areas. Smoking cannabis in public is illegal and can result in fines of up to 25,000 baht (about US$1,000).

What is Nipah virus?

Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic pathogen carried by fruit bats. It can jump to humans via infected animals or contaminated food (notably raw date palm sap), and it can spread between people through close contact. The World Health Organization lists it as a high-priority pathogen because of its severity and outbreak potential.

Symptoms to watch for

Infection ranges from mild or asymptomatic to severe:

How does it spread?

Nipah reaches humans in three main ways:

No cure, no vaccine

Where has it appeared before?

Malawi, in turn, has committed to increasing its own health spending by $143.8 million over the same period. US officials say this shared financing model is designed to reduce long-term dependence on foreign aid and ensure that gains made during the agreement can be sustained after it ends.

A key focus of the deal is Malawi’s progress against HIV. The country is close to achieving the global 95-95-95 targets, which aim for 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of those diagnosed to receive treatment, and 95% of those on treatment to achieve viral suppression.

The agreement is meant to help Malawi maintain these gains through integrated health services that the government will eventually manage and fund itself.

They’re also handed out in clinics, promoted in public health campaigns, and discussed openly in school curricula. So when a map asks, “Are condoms legal?”, the expected answer feels obvious.

Until you look closer.

The above map shows a world almost entirely shaded green, meaning yes, condoms are legal, with one country standing out in red. That country is Afghanistan.

International organisations , including the World Health Organisation and UNAIDS, have over the years consistently emphasised the role of condoms in preventing sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, and reducing unintended pregnancies.

Under the Taliban government, Afghanistan has banned the sale and use of condoms . Reports indicate that pharmacies have been instructed to remove condoms from their shelves, with authorities arguing that contraceptives promote immoral behaviour and contradict their interpretation of religious values.

The consequences of this decision go beyond symbolism. In a country already facing fragile healthcare systems and limited access to medical services , the removal of condoms significantly weakens efforts to prevent sexually transmitted infections and manage reproductive health.

While Afghanistan stands alone in outright prohibition, several other countries operate in grey areas where condoms are legal yet difficult to access or socially discouraged.

In places like Indonesia and the Philippines, condoms are lawful, but strong cultural and religious pressures often limit their promotion and use .

In parts of Nigeria, promoting condom use can itself be restricted, undermining public health campaigns. North Korea is also reported to tightly control the production and sale of condoms, even if possession is not explicitly criminalised.

Today, just two countries, Vietnam and Sri Lanka, control more than half of the world’s cinnamon exports by value. New trade data shows how these nations have turned an ancient spice into a modern export powerhouse, reshaping supply chains and global food markets in the process.

According to figures compiled by the International Trade Centre and supported by CIA World Factbook export and commodities data, Vietnam is currently the world’s largest exporter of cinnamon. The country accounts for 27.6% of global exports, valued at approximately $227 million.

Sri Lanka follows closely with a 26.6% share, worth around $218 million. What this really means is that the cinnamon trade is anchored firmly in Asia.

Vietnam’s rise has been rapid and deliberate. Large-scale cultivation , particularly in Yen Bai and Quang Nam provinces, has allowed the country to meet rising global demand at competitive prices. Government support for agricultural exports and efficient processing systems has further strengthened its position.

Sri Lanka’s success is built on a different foundation. As the world’s primary source of Ceylon cinnamon , the country commands higher prices due to its distinctive flavour profile and lower coumarin levels.

International Trade Centre data shows that Sri Lankan cinnamon is especially sought after in Europe and other health-conscious markets. Despite higher production costs, its strong reputation has preserved its global competitiveness.

China ranks third in global cinnamon exports, with 15.3% of the market valued at 125 million US dollars. Indonesia follows with 13.7%, or roughly $112 million.

Both countries benefit from integrated agricultural systems and strong regional trade networks. China ’s exports often feed into processing and re-export chains, while Indonesia’s production remains closely tied to smallholder farmers, particularly in Sumatra.

Countries such as the Netherlands, the United States, Germany, and France are not major cinnamon growers, but they remain significant exporters by value. Their role is largely logistical.

The Netherlands, for example, accounts for 3.3% of global exports, reflecting its position as a key European trade and redistribution hub. International Trade Centre data shows that spices frequently enter Europe through Dutch ports before being re-exported across the region.

Global demand for cinnamon continues to grow, driven by interest in natural foods, wellness products, and plant-based diets. The market is expected to reach about $1.95 billion by 2034.

This quiet process of renewal happens at very different speeds across the body, and a closer look at human cell regeneration reveals just how remarkable it really is.

Medical research shows that cell regeneration is not a single process but a collection of finely timed systems, each adapted to the demands of a specific organ. Some cells are replaced in days, others take years, and together they allow the body to survive, heal, and adapt.

Fastest turnover: The gut and skin

Some of the fastest-regenerating cells are found in the digestive system. Studies referenced by Continental Hospitals show that cells lining the gut renew themselves every four to five days.

This rapid turnover is essential because the intestinal lining is constantly exposed to digestive acids, bacteria, and mechanical stress. Without this quick renewal, digestion and nutrient absorption would quickly break down.

Skin cells are not far behind. Dermatological research indicates that skin cells regenerate roughly every two to four weeks, replacing dead surface cells with fresh ones from deeper layers. This process supports wound healing, barrier protection, and temperature regulation.

Blood cells

Red blood cells follow a slightly slower but still highly active regeneration cycle. Data from the Stanford Blood Centre confirms that red blood cells are replaced approximately every three to four months. Each second, millions of new red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow to maintain oxygen delivery throughout the body.

This constant renewal explains why blood donation is possible without long-term harm to healthy donors; the body is biologically designed to replenish what is lost.

Liver

The liver occupies a unique position. While liver cells typically regenerate over six to twelve months, the organ itself has an extraordinary capacity to recover from injury. Clinical evidence shows that even when a significant portion of the liver is removed or damaged, it can regrow to near-original size under the right conditions .

This regenerative ability makes the liver one of the most resilient organs in the human body, despite its slower cellular turnover compared to skin or gut tissue.

Bone cells

Bone regeneration operates on a much longer timeline. Research cited in biomedical literature, including studies published on bioRxiv , indicates that bone cells are renewed roughly every ten years. This gradual process involves continuous remodelling, where old bone tissue is broken down and replaced with new material to maintain strength and mineral balance.

Although slow, this regeneration is critical for skeletal integrity, especially as people age.

Scientific consensus is clear that regeneration speed is not fixed. Factors such as age, overall health, nutrition, sleep quality, stress levels, and chronic disease significantly influence how efficiently cells renew themselves.

Poor sleep, prolonged stress, or nutritional deficiencies can slow regeneration, while healthy lifestyle choices tend to support it.

Understanding how quickly different cells regenerate reshapes how we think about healing, ageing, and long-term health. It explains why some injuries heal in days while others take months or years, and why lifestyle choices accumulate real biological consequences over time.

The flagship project of President Prabowo Subianto, the free nutritious meal programme, known by its Indonesian acronym MBG, is already feeding 55 million children , pregnant women and new mothers. Currently the second largest project of its kind in the world, after a similar project in India, it has grown exponentially over the past 12 months by harnessing private partnerships to create nearly 20,000 kitchens around the country.

The man in charge of the project, Dadan Hindayana, told Global South World that the impact was already being felt through higher school attendance rates and a boost to local economies.

"This is a very huge impact to the economy because once a service unit is built, it means 50 people will be joined directly in the service unit as the workers. And then we need one service unit, need a minimum of 15 suppliers for the supply of all materials. Just like rice, eggs, chicken, and so on and so on, vegetable, also fruit. Each day, we need 200 kilograms of rice, 350 kilograms of vegetables, 350 kilograms of fruit and also we need 3,000 eggs."

Each meal station also has its own nutritionist, tasked with finding the best combination of local ingredients to meet nutritional needs — particularly around protein — using locally sourced produce. Teams have even produced recipe books showcasing local cuisine based on their offerings. Each meal is budgeted at 15,000 rupiah, a little under one US dollar, and Dadan says nutritional value is the first priority, but creating meals that children enjoy is also key.

Crisis relief

When the country was hit by a massive cyclone at the end of last year, another benefit of the programme was revealed. With hundreds of thousands of people impacted by severe flooding, the food centres swung into action. Hundreds of kitchens operated at full capacity, producing millions of meals over the past month, he said.

"We already train the people, we have the logistics, and we have infrastructure. When the tragedy comes, we're ready."

With such an ambitious project and such tight timescales, Dadan accepts that some problems were inevitable. The programme has gained media attention as a result of a number of food poisoning incidents. Around half were attributable to the use of unclean water , he says, resulting in a new directive permitting use only of water certified as safe to drink. The rest of the incidents were the result of poor food hygiene processes, according to Dadan, who says that clear operating procedures have now been mandated.

The number of incidents is declining, he reports, and he has pledged to eliminate the problem in 2026.

Dadan said private and public benefactors had been crucial to the success of the programme, but also highlighted Prabowo's insistence on protecting its budget against many competing interests. The project has been allocated Rp335 trillion ($20 billion) for 2026.

According to her account , the family travelled to Lagos for the Christmas holidays when Nkanu fell ill with what initially appeared to be a cold. His condition later worsened into a severe infection, prompting admission to Atlantis Hospital. Doctors arranged an emergency medical evacuation to the United States, with a specialist team at Johns Hopkins Hospital placed on standby.

As part of preparations for the transfer, an MRI scan, lumbar puncture and central line insertion were requested. Atlantis Hospital referred the family to Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital to carry out the procedures.

Adichie said her son was sedated to prevent movement during the MRI and line insertion. While waiting outside the operating theatre, she noticed senior medical staff rushing in, a moment she said made it clear something had gone wrong. 

She was later told that her son had received an excessive dose of the anaesthetic propofol, became unresponsive and had to be resuscitated. He was then intubated, placed on a ventilator and admitted to intensive care. Adichie said he subsequently suffered seizures and cardiac arrest, conditions he had never previously experienced, and died several hours later.

“How can you sedate a sick child and neglect to monitor him?” Adichie asked, describing the actions as criminally negligent and a breach of basic medical protocol. She also alleged that her son was not continuously monitored after sedation and that his oxygen supply was switched off during transfer to the ICU.

Hospital response

Euracare Hospital has rejected parts of the family’s account. In a statement issued on January 10, it said some reports contained inaccuracies and insisted that care was provided “in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards”. The hospital said the child was critically ill and confirmed that it had launched an internal investigation.

Family rebuttal

The dispute escalated after a rebuttal from the child’s aunt, Dr Anthea Esege Nwandu, a dual board-certified physician with decades of experience in Nigeria and the United States . She challenged Euracare’s claims, disputing its account of the child’s prior treatment and alleging multiple departures from international standards, including failures in oxygen therapy and continuous monitoring.

China is the world ’s largest importer of vitamins, with imports valued at US$415.3 million, accounting for 8.2% of total global vitamin imports. This reflects the country’s massive pharmaceutical, food processing and supplements industries, alongside rising domestic demand linked to urbanisation and health awareness.

While China is also a major vitamin producer, it still relies on imports for specialised formulations, high-grade inputs and supply stability across its vast manufacturing base.

The United States ranks second, importing US$286.1 million worth of vitamins, or 5.6% of the global total. Demand is driven by a mature supplements market, widespread use of fortified foods and a healthcare system that heavily integrates nutritional products.

Vitamin imports into the US support everything from over-the-counter supplements to medical nutrition and animal feed.

Europe’s steady demand

Several European countries also feature prominently on the list:

Belgium’s position is notable. Despite its small size, it acts as a pharmaceutical and logistics hub for Europe, with major ports and processing facilities that redistribute vitamins across the region.

Russia imports US$258.8 million, accounting for 5.1 per cent of global vitamin imports, reflecting strong demand from its food and pharmaceutical sectors.

Further down the list, Uzbekistan appears with US$164.6 million (3.2%), highlighting how emerging economies are investing more heavily in nutrition, food security and healthcare inputs.

Smaller markets, strategic demand

Saudi Arabia , Hong Kong , and Canada round out the top ten. While their import volumes are smaller, each plays a strategic role:

Germany tops by exporting vitamins worth US$646.4 million that accounts for 12.1% of total global exports. The country’s dominance reflects its strong pharmaceutical sector, advanced chemical manufacturing and reputation for regulated, high-quality health products.

The United States follows closely with US$553.9 million in vitamin exports, representing 10.4% of the global total. American exports are largely driven by multinational supplement brands, biotech firms and large-scale nutraceutical production tied to wellness and sports nutrition markets.

Together, Germany and the US control more than one-fifth of the global vitamin export market, underscoring the role of industrial capacity, research investment and regulatory trust in shaping trade flows.

Hong Kong ranks third with US$364.1 million in vitamin exports, accounting for 6.8% of the total. Its position reflects its role as a regional trading and re-export hub rather than a primary manufacturing base, linking Chinese producers with global markets.

India, at US$298.1 million (5.6%), highlights Asia’s growing role in pharmaceutical ingredients and generic health products. India’s cost-efficient manufacturing and expanding export footprint have made it a key supplier of vitamins and supplements to both developed and emerging markets.

Several European countries with strong logistics and pharmaceutical infrastructure also feature prominently. The Netherlands exported US$268.9 million worth of vitamins, while the United Kingdom followed with US$260.3 million. Belgium and France also appear in the top ten, reflecting the importance of EU-based production clusters and access to global shipping networks.

Outside Europe, Australia exported US$246.8 million, benefiting from demand for “clean-label” and health-focused products, while Canada, at US$176.3 million, rounds out the list.

What is cereulide?

Cereulide is a toxin produced by certain strains of the bacterium Bacillus cereus. Unlike many bacteria, cereulide is heat-stable, meaning it can survive cooking, pasteurisation and reheating.

Once ingested, the toxin can trigger symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhoea, often within 30 minutes to six hours. In most healthy adults, symptoms usually pass within a day, but infants, young children and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of complications.

Why is it a concern in infant formula?

Infant formula is tightly regulated because babies rely on it as a primary source of nutrition. Even low levels of contamination can pose health risks, particularly because infants’ bodies are still developing.

There are currently no international standards setting an acceptable limit for cereulide in food, including baby formula. As a result, authorities often act cautiously when there is any indication the toxin could be present.

In this case, Nestlé said a “quality issue” was detected in an ingredient sourced from one of its major suppliers, prompting the company to recall affected batches as a preventive measure.

How widespread is the recall?

Health agencies in at least 37 countries have issued warnings or recalls linked to the affected products. Several of the recalled formulas were manufactured in Switzerland and distributed globally.

Some countries, including Singapore, have ordered a temporary stop to the sale of specific batches while investigations are ongoing. Nestlé has said that products in certain markets have been tested as safe, but regulators are continuing independent checks.

Are babies known to have fallen ill?

So far, no confirmed cases of illness linked to the recalled Nestlé infant formulas have been reported, according to health authorities.

However, parents and caregivers have been advised not to use the affected products as a precaution. Anyone whose child has consumed the formula and shows symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhoea is urged to seek medical advice promptly.

“This research gives us a biological explanation for why limiting screen time in the first two years is crucial,” said Dr Tan Ai Peng, the study’s lead researcher. “It also highlights the importance of parental engagement, showing that parent-child activities, like reading together, can make a real difference.”

Brain scans carried out when the children were aged four and a half, six and seven and a half showed that higher screen exposure in infancy was linked to faster maturation of brain networks involved in visual processing and cognitive control. While early brain maturation may sound positive, Dr Tan warned that this is not necessarily the case.

“The first few years of life is when the brain is starting to learn real-world experiences,” she said. “It is important that they get exposed to different types of environmental stimuli, and not just very excessive visual stimulation like what they get on screen.”

For children whose parents read to them frequently from the age of three, the link between early screen exposure and later brain changes was significantly weakened.

“When we started this study, we wanted to see how altered brain development might lead to anxiety symptoms during adolescence,” Dr Tan said. “There is a high possibility that they may not be able to cope well in new social environments.”

Published in the medical journal eBioMedicine, the findings add to growing global concerns about excessive screen use in early childhood.

Sudan — Cholera epidemic persists amid conflict | Africa

Sudan continued to battle one of its most severe cholera outbreaks in 2025, with more than 124,000 suspected cases and over 3,300 deaths reported. Ongoing conflict and mass displacement worsened the situation, damaging water and sanitation infrastructure and limiting access to healthcare. The epidemic stressed already fragile health services, forcing authorities and international organisations to implement emergency treatment centres and vaccination campaigns.

South Sudan — Cholera outbreak hits displaced populations | Africa

The cholera crisis in South Sudan, which began in late 2024, escalated in 2025, affecting almost 95,000 people and causing over 1,500 deaths. The outbreak primarily impacted displaced populations and communities with limited access to safe water and healthcare. Humanitarian organisations faced immense challenges in delivering treatment and preventive services in conflict‑affected regions, highlighting the intersection of displacement, poverty, and public health vulnerability.

Democratic Republic of Congo — Ebola outbreak in Kasai province | Central Africa

In September 2025, the DRC declared a new Ebola Virus Disease (Zaire strain) outbreak in Kasai Province. By the time the outbreak was contained in December, there were 81 confirmed cases and 28 deaths, including healthcare workers. The outbreak highlighted persistent weaknesses in surveillance, rapid response capacity, and community engagement in remote regions, underlining the challenges of controlling Ebola even in areas with previous outbreak experience.

Haiti — Cholera resurgence in Port‑au‑Prince | Latin America

Haiti experienced a resurgence of cholera in 2025, with 2,852 suspected cases, 186 confirmed infections, and 48 deaths, mostly among children under nine. The outbreak was concentrated around Port‑au‑Prince and the surrounding areas, exacerbated by weak sanitation infrastructure, poverty, and restricted access to healthcare. International agencies and local authorities mobilised emergency interventions, including treatment centres and water purification programmes, to limit further spread.

Vietnam — Measles epidemic hits children | East Asia

In Viet Nam, over 80,000 suspected measles cases were reported in 2025, amid declining routine vaccination coverage. Other countries in the region, including Cambodia, Mongolia, and the Philippines, also saw significant increases in measles infections, putting tens of thousands of children at risk. WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi warned that these outbreaks were reversing years of progress in immunisation, highlighting the urgent need for catch-up vaccination campaigns and improved access to preventive healthcare.

Bolivia — Measles emergency declared | Latin America

Bolivia declared a public health emergency in response to a measles outbreak that began in June 2025, resulting in 87 confirmed cases. National and international health authorities mobilised to contain the spread, particularly among children, through vaccination drives and awareness campaigns. The outbreak exposed gaps in routine immunisation coverage and underscored the ongoing challenges in maintaining herd immunity in low-resource settings.

Cuba — Dengue, chikungunya and arboviral epidemics strain healthcare | Latin America

In 2025, Cuba confronted a serious public health emergency marked by simultaneous outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya and other mosquito-borne viruses, with cases reported across most of the island and health facilities struggling to cope with demand. Official data and independent reports indicated tens of thousands of infections, with active transmission in multiple provinces and persistent challenges in diagnosis and treatment.

Local health organisations reported shortages of medicines, diagnostic reagents and hospital capacity, while civil society groups called for a formal public health emergency declaration amid overwhelmed clinics and limited resources. The outbreaks unfolded alongside broader systemic strains, including shortages of potable water and gaps in essential services that complicated public health responses.

He said the government should consider whether public insurance should reflect this change, describing hair loss treatment as a “matter of survival” for sections of the younger generation.

Health Minister Jeong Eun-kyeong, responding to a question during the briefing, said national health insurance already covers hair loss linked to medical conditions . She said hereditary hair loss was excluded because it is not considered symptomatic or life-threatening.

Lee challenged that position, questioning whether hereditary baldness should be excluded solely because it is not defined as a disease under current standards.

He said that while hair loss treatment had previously been categorised as cosmetic, it was increasingly regarded as necessary for everyday life, pushing back against the view that it fell outside the scope of essential healthcare.

Jeong maintained that hereditary hair loss did not meet the criteria for coverage, reiterating that it does not pose a direct threat to health or survival.

Lee suggested that if coverage were expanded, limits could be placed on the number of claims allowed per beneficiary to reduce the financial impact on the state-run insurance system.

He said a similar approach could be applied to other conditions, such as obesity, noting that South Korea already covers surgical stomach reduction under national health insurance and implying drug treatments could also be considered.

Lee added that social exclusion among younger people was growing, saying many no longer felt they were beneficiaries of government-funded medical support when they needed it.

New support has been announced for rugby development across Samoa, Fiji and Tonga, highlighting the continued importance of the sport to Pacific identity, youth engagement and regional cooperation. The assistance is aimed at strengthening grassroots structures as well as elite pathways, ensuring that rugby continues to provide opportunities for social development, international representation and economic activity across the three island nations.

Veteran journalist raises concerns over Samoa’s proposed media rules

A senior journalist in Samoa, Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia, has publicly questioned proposed changes to media regulations, warning that they could have implications for press freedom and journalistic independence. The concerns centre on how the new rules may affect reporting standards, oversight and the ability of the media to operate without undue restriction, sparking broader debate about transparency and democratic safeguards in the country.

Prime Minister calls for human rights to be part of everyday life in Samoa

Samoa’s Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt has urged citizens and institutions to treat human rights not as abstract principles but as values embedded in daily life. The call emphasises respect, inclusion and accountability across society, reinforcing the government’s commitment to aligning national development with fundamental rights and social justice.

Samoa releases its updated national climate plan

The Samoan government has released an updated national climate plan, outlining revised strategies to address climate change, resilience and sustainability. The plan reflects the country’s vulnerability to rising sea levels and extreme weather, while setting out policy priorities for adaptation, emissions reduction and international climate cooperation.

Prime minister meets with doctors and nurses on health sector priorities

The Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt has held discussions with doctors and nurses to address key issues within Samoa’s health sector. The meeting focused on workforce conditions, service delivery and strengthening healthcare systems, underscoring the government’s focus on improving public health outcomes and supporting frontline medical professionals.

Health authorities point to the uncertain long-term effects of inhaling e-liquids as a major factor behind these bans. Chemicals in vape liquids, including nicotine and other additives, have been linked to potential respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Governments are also concerned about the rising prevalence of vaping among young people , who may develop nicotine dependence early and transition to conventional smoking.

In addition to physical health, mental health risks have become a key concern. In Malaysia, for example, authorities have reported cases of drug-induced psychosis linked to adulterated vape liquids and synthetic substances. These incidents prompted the Health Ministry to establish a task force to monitor and address potential health crises associated with vaping.

Regulatory approaches differ across countries, but the overall aim is consistent: to protect public health and prevent addiction. Some governments have enacted total bans, prohibiting sales, imports, and marketing entirely. Others have introduced partial restrictions, such as limiting sales to minors or banning online advertising. These measures reflect a cautious approach in regions where healthcare systems may struggle to manage the long-term consequences of widespread vaping.

Malaysia is preparing one of the most comprehensive bans in the region. The government has announced plans to implement a nationwide prohibition on e-cigarettes by mid-2026, pending final legislative approval. Officials describe the decision as inevitable, framing it as a continuation of public health policy rather than a sudden intervention.

Medical organisations in the region have generally supported these measures. In Malaysia, the Malaysian Medical Association has backed the upcoming ban, highlighting the need for preventive action rather than reactive treatment of health crises. Across the Global South, similar reasoning underpins decisions to regulate or prohibit vaping.

The shift reflects a broader recognition that public health, particularly among vulnerable populations such as youth, must take priority over commercial interests. As more countries in the Global South move to restrict or ban e-cigarettes, they signal a commitment to preventing nicotine addiction and safeguarding both physical and mental health in the face of emerging global vaping trends.

At the heart of the plan is the Cerrillada polyclinic in Ribera, Uruguay, a facility serving rural populations near the border.

Officials say the commission will formalise cooperation between the two national health systems, allowing citizens to receive medical treatment in either country when services are not available locally. Dr Ernesto Pacini, Deputy of the Departmental Directorate of Rivera, explained to Viory the model: “From the Uruguayan side we will come twice a month. The first week it is us, the RAP, which is the primary care network with a vaccinator, graduate nurse, nurse and doctor. The following week the Brazilian team comes.”

The programme also facilitates the cross-border provision of medicines, ensuring that essential treatments reach patients on both sides. Dr Pacini added: “The Brazilian health service comes with the medication and it will also be provided, if necessary, to a Uruguayan user.” This approach aims to optimise resources and avoid duplication, creating a seamless system of care that leverages existing infrastructure in both countries.

By alternating healthcare teams and sharing medical resources, Uruguay and Brazil hope to create a model of border health cooperation that could inspire other regions worldwide. Beyond addressing immediate healthcare needs, the initiative underscores how international collaboration can overcome geographical and bureaucratic barriers, offering a blueprint for equitable access to medical services in border regions globally.

Several immigrants told local media that after being denied entry, they were later offered access to the same clinics through backdoor arrangements. In some cases, clinic staff allegedly shared private contact details, offering HIV medication, chronic drugs, baby immunisations and prenatal care in exchange for cash payments.

“As immigrants, we feel vulnerable, because clinic staff and Operation Dudula members are now taking advantage of our desperate need for chronic medication to make money. They should be stopped,” an immigrant is quoted by the Citizen .

Patients described being charged between R200 and R300 (approx. US$10 – 16) for antiretroviral drugs that are meant to be free. Others said they were allowed into clinics but deliberately left unattended, making them vulnerable to extortion by intermediaries who claimed to have connections inside.

South Africa’s health department says it is not aware of organised extortion but has condemned any such actions as illegal. “If this is true, it is un law ful, and we condemn it with the strongest terms it deserves. We request anyone with evidence to share it with the department or law enforcement agencies so they can swiftly investigate,” said Foster Mohale, spokesperson for the national health department.

“That deal… regarding our health issues is not good at all,” resident Lucy Wanjiru said. “We are not happy because there is no way our personal details should be shared with another country — it feels like they want to use us as guinea pigs!”

Others questioned the motives behind allowing foreign access to health information, warning it could threaten national sovereignty.

“If you are assisting people , you should not follow up on their data,” said Charles Maina. “My data is very important, and I would like to know why it is being followed up. I want to understand the reasons behind this.”

Another resident, Isaac Ndirangu, argued that financial assistance should not come at the expense of privacy . “Even if it means getting money, it’s better to do without it. As Kenyans, our data should remain safe and not be tampered with or used for business purposes,” he said.

The High Court issued the injunction after the Consumers Federation of Kenya (COFEK) filed a petition warning that the agreement could enable the transfer and sharing of Kenyans’ personal medical data without adequate legal protections.

The suspension will remain in place until the case is fully heard, keeping the controversial health-aid deal on hold.

The United States and Liberia have signed a five-year, US$176 million bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding, marking a major step toward implementing the America First Global Health Strategy. Under the deal, Washington will provide up to US$125 million in health assistance over five years to support HIV/AIDS, malaria, maternal and child health, and global health security. Liberia, in turn, will increase domestic health financing by nearly US$51 million, assuming more responsibility for its national health system, the New Dawn reports. The agreement comes as Liberia shows measurable progress, advancing toward the 95-95-95 HIV targets, cutting malaria incidence by over 30%, and improving laboratory and surveillance systems. The MOU aims to strengthen government-to-government cooperation and modernise health systems. Similar multiyear agreements will be rolled out with other partner countries in the coming weeks.

Boakai declares Unity Party ‘stronger than ever’

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai says the Unity Party has emerged more united and resilient after years of political turbulence, declaring the party “stronger, more united, and more purposeful than ever.” Speaking at the UP’s Homecoming, Fundraising, and Headquarters Dedication Ceremony, Boakai recalled the party’s painful eviction from its former headquarters in 2021, a moment many believed would mark its collapse. “But they were wrong,” Boakai said. “We reorganised, we endured, and today we stand here not in defeat but stronger,” Liberian Observer quotes. He honoured the party’s founding fathers and remembered supporters killed in tragedies following UP rallies in 2023, describing them as “part of our story, our struggle, and our soul.”

Sweden to end bilateral aid, close Monrovia embassy in 2026

Sweden has announced it will end bilateral development aid to Liberia and close its Monrovia mission by 2026 in a major restructuring of its global development strategy. The move will phase out US$149.6 million in ongoing programs, equivalent to 12.4% of Liberia’s national budget, across governance, energy, education, agriculture, and health. Stockholm emphasised the decision is budget-driven and not a response to any internal developments in Liberia. Sweden will shift support to multilateral channels, EU funding, and future trade partnerships. More than 30 active Swedish-funded projects, including energy access, women’s empowerment, decentralisation, and rule-of-law initiatives, will undergo an “orderly wind-down.”

US$1.25 billion draft budget

The House of Representatives has passed the 2026 National Budget, amounting to L$247 billion, equivalent to US$1,249,665,191.15, marking the end of the second session of the 55th Legislature’s third quarter. The financial framework is fully balanced, with core and contingent revenues matching planned expenditures. The Joint Committee on Ways, Means, and Public Accounts reported discovering an additional US$38.8 million in potential revenue during scrutiny. The budget now moves to the Senate for concurrence.

Digital mineral rights application system

The Ministry of Mines and Energy has rolled out a fully digital mineral rights application platform, replacing Liberia’s manual, paper-based system with an online, transparent, investor-friendly interface. The system allows applicants to submit, renew, and track mineral rights remotely, significantly reducing bureaucratic delays and travel costs. Deputy Ministers Franseth Mulbah and William Hines hailed the launch as a transformative step toward aligning Liberia’s mining governance with global best practices. The system integrates with the Liberia Revenue Authority for online payments and is designed to curb corruption through reduced human discretion and verifiable digital records.

Despite living in a time of abundant information, micronutrient deficiencies affect more than 2 billion people globally , according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). It is a silent crisis that rarely makes headlines but influences everything from children’s growth to adults’ energy levels and long-term health outcomes.

Many of these deficiencies stem not from a lack of food, however, but from a lack of nutrient-rich foods.

The WHO reports that deficiencies in vitamins A, B12, D, and folate remain common across regions and contribute to increased infections , pregnancy complications, reduced productivity, and even mortality.

For example:

Harvard’s School of Public Health stresses that vitamins work best when they come from real foods , because foods contain synergistic compounds like phytonutrients, fibre, and minerals that help vitamins perform their roles effectively.

Breaking down the vitamins and the foods we often overlook

Vitamin A – The Vision and Immunity Protector

Daily need: 800 mcg

From foods like carrots, leafy greens, and liver

Vitamin A deficiency affects over 190 million children worldwide. It supports vision, skin health, immunity, and the development of tissues.

B Vitamins – The Body’s Engine Room

Benefits: Energy production, brain function, metabolism

Sources: eggs, nuts, grains, beans, meat

Each B vitamin plays a distinct role. For example:

Vitamin C – The Repair and Immunity Builder

Daily need: 85 mg

Sources: citrus, tomatoes, peppers

Vitamin C supports collagen production, which is critical for skin, bones, and wound healing, and strengthens the immune system.

Vitamin D – The Sunshine Nutrient

Daily need: 20 mcg

Sources: sunlight, fortified foods, mushrooms

Modern indoor lifestyles, pollution , and geographical location have pushed vitamin D deficiency to historically high levels. It plays a key role in immunity and bone health.

Vitamin E – The Antioxidant Defender

Daily need: 15 mg

Sources: nuts, seeds, spinach

It protects cells from oxidative damage, which is linked to ageing and chronic disease.

Vitamin K – The Clotting and Bone Health Helper

Daily need: 100 mcg

Sources: leafy greens, broccoli

Vitamin K ensures proper blood clotting and works with vitamin D to strengthen bones.

“We are very happy. As you just saw, we have just completed the first TAVI valve implantation in Senegal. It is a great source of pride,” Dr Ndao said, noting that the achievement comes after two years of intensive preparation and collaboration among specialists.

TAVI is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace a narrowed aortic valve that fails to open properly, a condition known as aortic stenosis. It is often recommended for elderly patients or those with high-risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, or age-related degeneration of heart valves, which typically causes shortness of breath and fatigue.

The intervention was led by Lieutenant Colonel Mouhamed Cherif Mboup and his team, who emphasised that this development places Senegal among a growing number of African countries adopting advanced life-saving cardiac technologies.

The successful procedure signals a new chapter for cardiovascular care in the country and offers fresh hope to patients who previously had limited treatment options.

For the first time this century, the number of children dying before the age of five is projected to increase. In 2024, an estimated 4.6 million children died before turning five. That figure is expected to rise to 4.8 million in 2025.

“That means more than 5,000 classrooms of children, gone before they ever learn to write their name or tie their shoes… It doesn't have to be like this,” Bill Gates, chair of the Gates Foundation, said.

The report attributes the rise to a significant decline in global development assistance for health.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that external health aid will decrease by 30% to 40% in 2025 compared to 2023, severely disrupting health services in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Projections in the report suggest that continued funding cuts of 20% could result in an additional 12 million child deaths by 2045. If the cuts reach 30%, the figure could rise to 16 million.

 “If we take this path, we’re the generation that almost ended preventable child deaths. Almost eradicated polio. Almost wiped malaria off the map. Almost made HIV history… But we can’t stop at almost. We know kids are dying. We know why. And we know how to stop it,” the report stated.

Amidst significant aid cuts by the United States government under President Donald Trump, the Microsoft founder has pledged $200 billion of his wealth to charity and revealed earlier this year that most of it will be directed towards Africa, with the main goal of ending preventable deaths of mothers and babies, eliminating deadly infectious diseases, and reducing poverty across the continent over the next two decades.

Funding cuts have resulted in a 70% reduction in some countries for vital services like disease surveillance, immunisation, maternal care, and emergency preparedness and response, according to WHO survey data from 108 LMICs gathered in March 2025. 

The Goalkeepers report outlines several interventions with high potential to save lives. These include strengthening primary health care systems, maintaining routine immunisation programmes, improving vaccines , and using data to drive better decision-making.

According to the report, primary health care systems that cost under $100 per person annually could prevent up to 90% of child deaths.

Since 2000, the number of child deaths worldwide has decreased by half as a result of vaccines being given to the most vulnerable children, the report noted.

“And every dollar spent on immunisation gave countries a return of $54.”

The DOH reiterated that vapes pose serious risks — including cardiovascular disease, cancer and severe lung injuries — and noted that the country recorded its first EVALI-linked death last year. 

Herbosa said authorities must tighten enforcement of existing laws but suggested a total ban may be simpler.

The concern mirrors global trends. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that e-cigarettes are driving an “alarming” surge in nicotine addiction among children, with young people far more likely to vape than adults. 

WHO estimates more than 100 million people worldwide now use e-cigarettes, including at least 15 million adolescents.

Neighbouring Malaysia is moving ahead with a phased vape ban, starting with refillable devices and eventually covering all models — a plan that will go before the Cabinet for final approval. 

Several Malaysian states already enforce local bans, despite legal complexities stemming from the country’s 2024 vape regulation law. If fully implemented, Malaysia would join Brunei, Thailand and Singapore in outlawing vaping.

In the Philippines, regulators are tightening rules even without a full ban. 

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has released a draft order requiring mandatory permits for all vape promotions and advertisements, along with strict age-gating for online content and proof that stores are not near schools or playgrounds. Public comments are open until December 15.

With the DOH signalling openness to prohibition and the DTI moving to curb marketing, the Philippines appears increasingly aligned with regional efforts to rein in vaping — raising the question of whether a ban may soon follow.

Nyeri County Director of Medical Services , Dr Nelson Muriu, said diabetes prevalence in some sub-counties has reached alarming levels.

“Nationally, diabetes stands at around eight per cent, but some areas here are recording up to 75 per cent,” he said. “This is a serious burden we cannot ignore.”

Doctors also noted that men are far more likely to delay seeking care, contributing to higher mortality rates. Census data shows women in Nyeri live nearly 10 years longer than men. 

Cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, stroke and heart attacks, now make up roughly 80 per cent of NCD cases at Tumutumu Hospital, while cancers such as breast, cervical, prostate, stomach and oesophageal are steadily rising. Many patients seek help only when their disease is already at an advanced stage. 

Oncologist Dr George Oguta said most cancer patients arrive at stage three or four, when treatment options are limited and costly. “Many cannot even afford basic screening,” he added. Health officials link the surge to tobacco use, heavy drinking, poor diets, physical inactivity and increasingly westernised eating habits.

The county is developing programmes aimed at improving health-seeking behaviour, especially among men, as NCDs continue to outpace communicable diseases in the region.

These numbers come at a time when fentanyl-related overdoses and trafficking networks have become major international issues, prompting governments to strengthen monitoring and public health responses.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Narcotic Drugs Report 2024 notes that synthetic opioids, especially fentanyl, remain one of the fastest-growing drug threats globally.

According to the report, fentanyl’s spread is driven by two key factors: its extremely high potency and its increasing integration into illegal drug markets.

The substance is often mixed with heroin, methamphetamine, or counterfeit pills, creating dangerous combinations that users may not recognise.

The graphic above highlights a distribution pattern that many may not expect. While the U.S. is well known for its fentanyl crisis, European countries account for significant portions of global consumption:

Smaller shares are found in countries such as Russia, the UK, South Korea and Austria, while 21% of global consumption falls under “other countries.”

In the United States, fentanyl has become the leading cause of overdose deaths, according to USAfacts, which tracks national opioid data. The organisation reports that more than 74,000 overdose deaths in 2023 were linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl.

Amid rising global economic and humanitarian pressures, including climate shocks, food security threats, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation says the new plan aims to reach those still left behind: vulnerable children, their families, and communities in fragile circumstances.

In practical terms, the strategy promises to ramp up programmes that will protect children from harm and improve their education.

“Our core actions will protect children from harm, strengthen their education, improve their health and nutrition, help families build resilience and support communities to adapt to climate and economic challenges,” emphasised World Vision Rwanda’s National Director, Pauline Okumu.

Rwanda has made remarkable social and economic progress over the past decades, guided by national vision plans such as Vision 2050 . But the country still faces structural challenges of poverty, limited rural access to services, inequality, and vulnerability to climate and economic shocks.

In this context, World Vision Rwanda’s strategy could act as a powerful supplement to government efforts, targeting the most vulnerable children who risk being left behind otherwise.

Since beginning long-term, child-focused programmes in the early 2000s, World Vision Rwanda has intervened through water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), education, child protection, health, nutrition and livelihoods programmes by delivering clean water access to more than 1 million people between 2018 and 2023, and enabling over 678,500 individuals to access livelihood support and financial inclusion services.

The outbreak, which was officially declared on September 4 after the first known patient died on August 25 from multiple organ failure, resulted in a total of 64 cases—53 confirmed and 11 probable—and 45 deaths.

"On behalf of the government— and taking into account all the scientific and operational indicators confirming that the chain of transmission of the virus has been broken—I hereby officially declare the end of the 16th Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo," said Dr Samuel Roger Kamba, Minister of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Welfare.

The Ministry of Health, supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other partners, worked to contain the outbreak in a span of three months. According to Dr Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, the rapid containment effort reflects strong coordination among all parties involved.

"Controlling and ending this Ebola outbreak in three months is a remarkable achievement. National authorities, frontline health workers, partners and communities acted with speed and unity in one of the country's hard-to-reach localities," he stated. "WHO is proud to have supported the response and to leave behind stronger systems, from clean water to safer care, that will protect communities long after the outbreak has ended."

For the first time in a DRC Ebola response, a specialised care facility—the Infectious Disease Treatment Module (IDTM)—was introduced. Developed by the WHO, the World Food Programme, and other stakeholders, the IDTM aimed to ensure better protection for health workers and provide safer and more dignified treatment for patients.

Vaccination efforts also formed a key part of the response. More than 47,500 people were vaccinated against Ebola, beginning with known contacts of confirmed cases and later extending to surrounding communities in and near Bulape.

This outbreak took place against the backdrop of a worsening humanitarian crisis in the country, marked by conflict in eastern DRC and widespread internal displacement. Over 7 million people currently face limited access to basic services , including food, clean water, and healthcare.

Ebola virus disease is a severe and often fatal illness in humans. It spreads through direct contact with blood or body fluids from an infected person or from contaminated surfaces. The DRC has experienced multiple outbreaks since the disease was first identified in 1976, including previous ones in Kasai Province in 2007 and 2008.

The country will now enter 90 days of heightened disease surveillance to monitor for any potential resurgence.

The new model relies on pay-for-performance contracts. Under the arrangement, participating African governments sign long-term logistics agreements with Zipline, which could total up to $400 million over time.

U.S. officials say the strategy aims to prioritise “efficiency, accountability and measurable outcomes” over previous grant-based systems.

“This partnership is an example of the innovative, results-driven approach at the core of the America First foreign assistance agenda,” said Jeremy Lewin, the U.S. Undersecretary of State for Foreign Assistance, Humanitarian Affairs and Religious Freedom.

Why Drones ?

Zipline has become a critical part of African health systems since launching in Rwanda in 2016. Its autonomous drones deliver medical supplies to rural clinics in minutes, bypassing poor roads, power shortages and supply-chain bottlenecks that have long undermined healthcare access.

“The health systems don’t serve most people well,” said Caitlin Burton, CEO of Zipline Africa. “You can’t pave every road, electrify every facility, or guarantee every refrigerator works. But you can deliver what people need, when they need it.”

The company currently operates in seven countries worldwide but has its strongest footprint in Africa.

In 2017, the Portuguese Parliament passed Law No. 11/2017, mandating at least one vegan option in all public-sector canteens, including schools, universities, hospitals, and prisons.

The law was heavily supported by the animal rights party PAN (People–Animals–Nature) and framed as a step toward inclusivity and sustainability.

This decision marked a rare moment when ethics, public health, and environmental concern converged into law. According to the European Commission , food-related emissions account for nearly 31% of global greenhouse gases, pushing governments to rethink how food is supplied in public spaces.

Furthermore, the World Health Organisation (WHO) notes that plant-based diets can significantly reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and obesity, aligning the law with long-term public health goals.

This year’s major UN climate reports have emphasised food-system reform as essential to meeting global climate targets. The UN Environment Programme stated that shifting toward plant-based diets could slash agricultural emissions and land use dramatically.

Meanwhile, the global conversation around veganism has expanded beyond animal ethics. In 2024–2025, rising food prices, supply chain shocks, and conflict-driven shortages have pushed public institutions to reevaluate their menu strategies .

However, while several countries are introducing plant-forward guidelines, none have legislated a mandatory vegan meal nationwide. The UK, Germany, and the Netherlands have debated similar policies but stopped short of legislation. Some cities, like New York City, have introduced plant-based hospital meals by default, but not through national law.

The Central Jakarta District Court has sentenced former ASDP Indonesia Ferry CEO Ira Puspadewi to 4.5 years in prison and a Rp500 million fine for corruption linked to the 2019 - 2022 acquisition of PT Jembatan Nusantara (JN). The court found Ira guilty of enriching PT JN owner Adjie by Rp1.25 trillion (approx. US$78.1 million) through an irregular business cooperation scheme. Chief Judge Sunoto read out the verdict on Thursday, noting it was lighter than the 8.5-year sentence sought by prosecutors from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The case is one of Indonesia’s most high-profile corporate graft scandals this year, Kompas reports . ASDP Indonesia Ferry is a state-owned Indonesian company that operates an integrated ferry and port service to connect the archipelago, along with developing waterfront tourism.

500,000 hectares for cattle farms to combat milk shortage

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the creation of 500,000 hectares of cattle farms to address a milk shortage affecting the government’s Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program. Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency Nanik S. Deyang said 300,000 hectares will be developed outside Java and 200,000 within. “The President has given instructions. A cattle farm will soon be established to meet the needs of the MBG and the Indonesian people,” she said . The farms are expected to produce 3 million litres of milk per day, with Agrinas and the Agriculture Ministry spearheading the effort. Plans also include expanding soy milk production to supplement the dairy supply.

Indonesia and Austria to establish carbon trade agreement

Indonesia is preparing to sign a carbon trade agreement with Austria, Minister of Environment and BPLH Head Hanif Faisol Nurofiq announced after meeting Austrian Minister Norbert Totschnig in Vienna. The partnership will include a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) to support both countries’ carbon market frameworks. “We believe that a well-functioning carbon market will contribute to achieving Indonesia’s climate targets while encouraging green investment,” Hanif said . Indonesia’s carbon trade transactions reached Rp7 trillion (approx. US$437.5 million) at COP30 in Brazil, with a potential of 14.5 million tons of CO₂ in future trading.

Riau flu outbreak among Talang Mamak tribe

Health authorities say an Influenza A outbreak that killed five children and infected more than 200 members of the Talang Mamak Indigenous community in Indragiri Hulu, Riau, is now under control. Acting Health Agency head Heri Permana confirmed that no new cases have been reported since late October. “Hopefully there will be no additional patients so we can focus on recovery efforts,” said Sandra, head of the local health agency. A report by Jakarta Post indicated that the outbreak, which mostly affected children and infants, had spread rapidly through the remote hamlet before medical teams intervened with treatment and supplies.

Over 1,000 evacuated after Mount Semeru eruption

More than 1,000 residents have been evacuated following a series of eruptions at Mount Semeru, East Java’s tallest volcano, which spewed ash clouds up to 2 kilometres high and sent lava flows 13 kilometres down its slopes. Authorities reported several injuries and deployed emergency response teams to Lumajang and Malang regencies to assist displaced residents. The 3,676-meter volcano, one of Indonesia’s most active, has been under heightened monitoring since its previous major eruption in 2021.

The report focused on Africa, a critical market where Nestlé holds a market share exceeding 50% and where annual Cerelac sales surpass USD 250 million.

With the assistance of various civil society organisations in Africa, Public Eye collected and analysed nearly a hundred Cerelac products sold in 20 countries on the continent. Analysis conducted by Inovalys, a specialised agri-food laboratory, found that more than 90% of the products contained added sugar, often in high quantities.

The findings show that Cerelac products sold in Africa contain significantly more sugar than those sold elsewhere:

In contrast, in Switzerland, where Nestlé is headquartered, the main baby cereal brand contains zero added sugar. Similarly, in key European markets such as Germany and the United Kingdom, all Cerelac products targeted at babies six months and older have no added sugar.

Experts and advocates warn that the practice carries serious public health consequences on a continent where obesity is rapidly increasing. 

In 2019, 24% of the world's overweight children under the age of five lived in Africa. 

Previously thought to be a problem in high-income countries, overweight is becoming more common in low- and middle-income countries; in Africa, the number of overweight children under the age of five has increased by nearly 12.1% since 2000.

WHO has long cautioned that early exposure to sugar can create a lasting preference for sugary products, serving as a major risk factor for overweight and obesity. 

The report also highlighted a lack of transparency, noting that for about two-thirds of the analysed products, the amount of added sugar was not disclosed in the nutritional information on the packaging, which critics argue “undermines consumer rights and public health”.

While Nestlé promotes Cerelac as being fortified with vitamins and minerals to "help fight malnutrition".

Nestlé maintained that it has a "consistent approach to nutrition for all babies everywhere" when contacted by Public Eye. The company asserted that it fully complies with national legislations and that its internal guidelines set an added sugar threshold well below that stipulated by the international standard of the UN Codex Alimentarius Commission.

Nestlé also stated that it declares sugar content transparently according to local regulatory requirements: “We do not mislead consumers.”

Nestlé further stated that it has accelerated the global rollout of Cerelac with no added sugar, including in Africa, and aims to introduce variants with no added sugars to all markets where it operates by the end of 2025.

Civil society organisations from Africa are calling on the multinational to immediately comply with the WHO guidelines. In an open letter, 20 organisations across countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, Cameroon, and Tunisia, demanded that the food giant immediately stop adding sugar to its baby foods.

Chiso Ndujkwe-Okafor, Executive Director of the Nigerian Consumer Advocacy and Empowerment Foundation (CADEF), whose country is the largest market for Cerelac in Africa, called on Nestlé to “align with WHO guidelines”.

Advocacy groups warned Nestlé, stating, “All babies have an equal right to healthy nutrition—regardless of their nationality or skin colour. All babies are equal. So do the right thing. The world is watching.” 

A previous 2024 petition signed by 105,000 people was delivered to the company, but Nestlé has reportedly been “turning a deaf ear” to the appeal.

Peninsular Malaysia currently experiences sunrise at around 7 a.m., leaving workers and schoolchildren little daylight before starting their day. 

In contrast, eastern states Sabah and Sarawak see sunrise between 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., despite sharing the same time zone as the rest of the country.

Advocates for a time zone change point to nearby countries, such as Thailand and western Indonesia, which operate on GMT+7, arguing this alignment allows for a healthier daily routine with earlier daylight hours. 

Some Malaysians say they feel “robbed” of morning light, limiting opportunities for exercise and outdoor activity before work or school.

The current time arrangement dates back to 1982, when then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad advanced Peninsular Malaysia’s clock by half an hour to synchronise with Sabah and Sarawak. Singapore followed suit to avoid inconvenience for businesses and travellers.

Calls to revert Peninsular Malaysia to GMT+7 have circulated online for years, driven by communities advocating for more sunlight to improve health. Supporters argue that shifting the clock could help address lifestyle-related health issues such as sleep disruption and low physical activity.

However, medical experts caution that the one-hour difference may not be a major health concern. 

The government has previously rejected proposals to shift the time zone, citing potential economic impact.