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.

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:

Losing the ranking means Morocco has fallen out of the group of reference countries recognised by the WHO, a setback the network described as a blow to national health security and vaccine sovereignty.

According to the network, the audit revealed weaknesses in governance , independence and regulatory performance. Morocco’s legal and regulatory index reportedly dropped to just one out of five, raising concerns about oversight and accountability within the agency. 

The group also blamed the decline on what it called a flawed pharmaceutical policy, pointing to powerful industry lobbies , weak competition enforcement and drug prices that in some cases are more than ten times higher than in countries of origin or in Europe.

Another major concern raised was a “brain drain” from the sector, with more than 200 scientific and technical professionals said to have left due to poor working conditions and lack of job stability. The network warned that replacing experienced staff with short-term contracts has undermined institutional capacity.

While several African countries have achieved WHO Maturity Level 3 status in recent years, Morocco’s downgrade risks limiting its ability to market medicines and vaccines regionally and internationally, potentially deterring investment.

The network has called for an investigation into the causes of the downgrade, reforms to strengthen the regulator’s independence, tighter controls on drug pricing, and stronger action by the Competition Council to curb monopolistic practices in the pharmaceutical market.

It also urged the government to introduce incentives to retain scientific talent and restore confidence in Morocco’s drug regulatory system.

Last winter, doctors diagnosed the man with primary biliary cirrhosis and warned that without a liver transplant, he was unlikely to survive beyond a year. His parents sold their home to help cover medical costs, while his wife remained at his side as his primary carer.

Tests later showed that the wife was an almost perfect donor match, with compatibility exceeding 95%. But when asked to undergo surgery, she refused, telling doctors and relatives that she suffered from a severe fear of needles and surgical procedures.

The refusal caused a rift within the family, with he husband accusing her of wanting him to die and dismissing her caregiving, while his parents pressed her to reconsider. He later claimed to have uncovered evidence that she had previously undergone surgery and routine blood tests without difficulty.

A suitable liver from a brain-dead donor was eventually found, and the husband survived after a successful transplant. 

When confronted afterwards, the wife admitted that her claimed phobia was an excuse, saying she feared surgical risks and worried that their children would be left without a mother if something went wrong.

The husband subsequently filed for divorce, arguing that her refusal amounted to abandonment and a failure of marital duty. The case went to court, where judges rejected his claim.

In its ruling, the court said organ donation was a matter of personal bodily autonomy and could not be forced, even between spouses. It also found that the husband’s coercion and verbal abuse had undermined the marriage.

The couple later agreed to divorce, with the wife retaining custody of their children. According to local media , she also continued to provide financial support for the husband’s recovery, as the case sparked widespread online debate, much of it in defence of her decision.

Researchers said the glue could withstand more than 400 pounds of force, with a shear strength of about 0.5 MPa and compressive strength near 10 MPa, making it a potential alternative to implants and surgery.

Lin Xianfeng, associate chief orthopedic surgeon at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and the project’s lead researcher, said the team took inspiration from oysters, whose natural glue allows them to cling to bridge pylons underwater. 

Bone 02 has been tested on more than 150 patients, according to local media Zhejiang Online.

In South Korea, scientists reported a similar breakthrough in bone-repair technology, re-engineering a standard arts-and-crafts glue gun to deliver a specialized bone-healing compound. 

The team at Sungkyunkwan University developed an “in situ printing system” that loads the gun with hydroxyapatite. a mineral found in human bones. and polycaprolactone, a biocompatible plastic with a low melting point.

Researchers said the handheld device offered greater surgical precision and allowed procedures to be completed more quickly. In tests on rabbits with severe leg fractures, the method produced fewer infections, faster operations and better bone regrowth. 

Findings of the South Korean study can be viewed on the online technologies journal Device .

Developments like these could transform one of the most common surgical needs worldwide. An estimated 6.8 million people break a bone each year, many of which are resolved through traditional surgical (metal and rod implants) and non-surgical (casts, splints or braces) methods.

Many of the items, such as implants, injectable contraceptives, and intrauterine devices, do not expire until at least 2027.

Aid groups say the supplies were originally intended for distribution through USAID, but after the Trump administration shifted foreign aid responsibilities to the State Department and restricted some reproductive health programs, the products were no longer sent out.

The US State Department said only some of the supplies have been approved for disposal and that no final decision has been made on the rest.

It also noted that officials are still reviewing options for what to do with the stockpile.

Health advocates have raised concerns that if the items are destroyed, it could worsen access to contraception in regions where women already face barriers to reproductive health care.

US officials have not publicly commented on specific donation requests but say any action must comply with existing US laws and policies, including restrictions under the Mexico City Policy.

That policy limits US support to foreign organisations involved in abortion-related work, even with non-US funds .

Some US lawmakers are calling for the government to find alternative solutions. Senator Jeanne Shaheen’s office told CNN that many of the supplies are still usable and could benefit communities with high demand for family planning services.

The donkeys are mostly taken from northern Tanzania and smuggled through informal border routes stretching from Arusha to Tanga.

Livingstone Masija, Director of the Arusha Society for the Protection of Animals (ASPA), said the donkeys end up in Kenya where they are slaughtered and exported to Asia.

“Tanzania has banned the slaughter and consumption of donkeys, and the result is that people smuggle them out of the country into Kenya for export to Asian countries but especially China,” he said .

In China , the skins are boiled to make a substance called Ejiao, believed to have medicinal properties.

The high demand for the product has pushed up the price of donkeys around the world.

A 2020 report by the Donkey Sanctuary estimated that around 5 million donkey hides are needed every year to meet the demand.

Donkeys are essential to rural life in Tanzania.

They help farmers plough land, fetch water , and carry goods and people in areas where transport is limited.

But experts warn that with continued theft, overwork, and poor treatment, donkey populations are falling fast.

Tanzania used to have around 600,000 donkeys, but the number is dropping. Animal welfare groups say the country could lose all of them within the next decade.

Donkey slaughterhouses opened in Tanzania in 2014, but were later shut down following public pressure.

Since then, illegal trade networks have taken over, according to local activists.

“This marks a significant step towards strengthening domestic investment in health product manufacturing,” Mhagama said, noting that the ministry has supported the establishment of ten new factories for medicines and medical devices.

The government has allocated $79 million from March to June 2025 to manage the funding transition, with $36.3 million already spent on procuring ARVs, tuberculosis, and malaria drugs, the citizen reports.

Tanzania has long depended on external support, notably the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). However, recent funding cuts have disrupted HIV services across the region, prompting the shift.

Medical Association of Tanzania (MAT) President Dr. Mugisha Nkoronko welcomed the plan, saying, “MAT commends the government for taking this bold step to close the gap left by reduced US funding. We look forward to more local factories meeting national demand and exporting to African markets.”

Finance Minister Mwigulu Nchemba said the government is boosting domestic revenue and promoting public-private partnerships to sustain healthcare financing.

This announcement comes a month after Gates pledged to give away 99% of his fortune. Now aged 69, the American billionaire said the funding will be channelled through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which has a long history of supporting development efforts on the continent.

Focus on healthcare and nutrition

Gates emphasised the importance of strengthening primary healthcare systems. “What we've learned is that helping the mother be healthy and have great nutrition before she gets pregnant, while she is pregnant, delivers the strongest results,” he said. He also highlighted the critical need for child nutrition in the first four years of life.

In the face of significant aid cuts by the United States government under President Donald Trump ’s "America First" policy, Gates’ commitment offers hope for many African countries. These cuts have affected key programmes, including HIV/AIDS treatment efforts funded by USAID.

A call to embrace artificial intelligence

Gates encouraged young African innovators to think about integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into future healthcare systems. He drew parallels with the way mobile phones transformed banking in Africa and suggested a similar leap could be made in the health sector.

“Africa largely skipped traditional banking, and now you have a chance, as you build your next generation healthcare systems, to think about how AI is built into that,” Gates said. He cited Rwanda’s use of AI-enabled ultrasound technology to detect high-risk pregnancies as a model to follow.

Foundation’s goals and timeline

According to a statement from the Gates Foundation , it will focus on three main areas: ending preventable deaths of mothers and babies, eliminating deadly infectious diseases, and reducing poverty across Africa.

The foundation plans to close its operations after the 20-year period. “At the end of 20 years, the foundation will sunset its operations,” the statement said.

The mother, a 41-year-old Singaporean, had been referred to Vietnam after specialists in her home country found her baby had a serious heart defect that could lead to stillbirth.

Since Singapore did not offer the complex procedure, she was sent to Tu Du Hospital and Children ’s Hospital 1.

The first attempt on May 22 was called off due to the baby’s early stage of development and low weight. Doctors described the decision to pause as extremely difficult.

But after more preparation, the team made a second attempt, which was successful.

The baby’s family said they were overwhelmed with gratitude, and the mother praised the medical team for their care and support despite language barriers.

Her husband described the outcome as a “miracle", Tuoitre News reports.

Vietnam’s success in this high-risk case has drawn attention from across the region, showing how the country is building a reputation for expertise in fetal medicine.

As a result of the successes, leading Singaporean hospitals now trust Vietnamese teams with cases that require the most delicate surgeries.

The country has also seen a rise in foreign patients coming for in vitro fertilisation and laparoscopic procedures, especially in oncology and reproductive health.

Doctors say Vietnam now leads Southeast Asia in IVF techniques and trains medical staff from countries like Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.

A new fetal medicine centre is also being set up in northern Vietnam to expand services across the country.

The health ministry has approved the plan, and doctors are already receiving training in treating conditions like heart defects, twin-to-twin transfusion, and other complications before birth.

In the communication signed by Dr Benetta Colins Andrews, Chairperson of the LMDC, the council stated:

“The Credential Committee has officially informed my office that your claim of being a Medical Doctor could not be substantiated by the documents you provided. Particularly so that you’ve failed to provide your undergraduate medical certificate and internship certificate which are the absolute prerequisites for obtaining license to practice medicine in Liberia.”

The letter further confirmed the outcome of the LMDC’s Credential Committee meeting held on April 18, 2025:

“The Credential Committee has therefore in its Friday, April 18, 2025, sitting, recommended the REVOCATION OF YOUR LICENSE effective immediately. Kindly consider this communication as LMDC’s official endorsement of the recommendation by the credential committee based on the findings of its investigation.”

The decision follows an audit launched by the LMDC into the credentials of medical practitioners operating in the country. Dr George was formally requested on March 18, 2025, to present documentation for a re-evaluation of his licensure. However, the council noted that its records showed no verifiable credentials for him at the time.

Further scrutiny revealed inconsistencies in Dr George’s stated academic background. He previously listed a “professional doctorate in medicine (MD), general medicine” from the University of Hertfordshire in the United Kingdom on his LinkedIn profile, which has since been removed.

In a statement provided to the BBC , the University of Hertfordshire refuted this claim:

“Following a thorough review of our academic records, we can confirm that there is no evidence that this individual was ever awarded any degree by the University nor studied here. Any claim to the contrary is therefore false and constitutes a misrepresentation of our institution. We are cooperating fully with the appropriate authorities in Liberia and will continue to support any investigations as required.”

Dr George has denied the LMDC’s conclusions and claims the investigation is politically motivated.

“I have served the Liberian health sector diligently for over a decade with no record of misconduct,” he told the BBC. He attributed the reference to the University of Hertfordshire to a clerical error “Maybe I made an error when writing because am under pressure.”

Dr George stated that his primary medical degree was obtained from the University of Central Nicaragua and that he began practising in Liberia in 2014 after submitting his qualifications to the relevant authorities. He maintained that his credentials had not been previously contested.

He further alleged that increased scrutiny followed his election as LMDA President in December 2024. “Problems started to arise once I became the president of the Liberia Medical and Dental Association,” he said, asserting that tensions escalated after the LMDA opposed the government ’s reclassification of specialists and consultants.

“I am continuing the long-standing advocacy for the rights and welfare of doctors and dentists in the country.”

“Access to healthcare and doctors has become an impossible obstacle course. This situation is unacceptable,” Bayrou said. “Like the education system, the organisation of healthcare in our country was once a source of pride. But certain decisions, such as the numerus clausus, have had dramatic effects on the provision of healthcare.”

Bayrou’s remarks come amid growing public frustration in rural and underserved urban areas, where residents often wait weeks or months for basic medical appointments.

The prime minister also took aim at Parcoursup, France’s controversial university admissions platform, arguing that it fosters social inequality by favouring students from families with insider knowledge.

“I must admit I have many questions about Parcoursup,” he said. “Early orientation, which Parcoursup organises, is in most cases social orientation. It’s because parents know the codes and maps of the system that their children can make the right choices.”

He lamented that France had become a “cruel country” for offering limited chances to those who fall behind early in life. 

Botswana is exploring the construction of a new 615 MW coal-fired power station near Morupule B to address ongoing generation issues, as the existing facility has struggled to operate at full capacity since its 2012 launch. The Energy Ministry is considering this option if maintenance efforts at Morupule B do not resolve the problems. According to African Mining Market , the proposed plant could be operational within 18 to 24 months. A previous expansion plan for Morupule B was unsuccessful due to a lack of government guarantees for bidders. 

Medical tourism

Botswana is emerging as Africa's leading medical tourism destination, driven by significant healthcare investments and strategic initiatives to attract global patients. Travel and Tour World reports that the government has allocated substantial funds to enhance healthcare infrastructure, including the development of a 450-bed academic teaching hospital and upgrades to primary care facilities. This focus on quality and affordable medical treatments positions Botswana as an appealing alternative to traditional medical tourism hotspots. 

Embracing language through martial arts

The Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana hosted a cultural and language event on March 21, 2025, focused on "Chinese Gongfu" or martial arts. The event provided approximately 70 Chinese learners a platform to practice the language while learning about traditional martial arts, including vocabulary for various weapons. Participants showcased their Chinese language skills, with many citing the practical benefits of learning Chinese for business opportunities. The event featured performances, language games, and discussions, drawing parallels to "English corners" in China for language practice, Xinhua reports. CIUB is Botswana's first Confucius Institute, with a second institute opening in October 2023. 

Trump’s impact in Botswana

The Trump Administration's foreign aid cuts have severely impacted Botswana, particularly in health sectors like HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, The Tenesse Tribune reports. On January 20, 2025, Trump signed an executive order halting most U.S. foreign aid and drastically reducing USAID's workforce, which has led to program cutbacks that leave many vulnerable populations without support. 

2026 World Athletic Relays

Botswana has been selected to host the 2026 World Athletics Relays in Gaborone from May 2 to May 3, 2026, as announced by World Athletics President Sebastian Coe during a council meeting in Nanjing, China. Minister of Sport and Arts Jacob Kelebeng celebrated the news , congratulating the Botswana Athletics Association. Botswana has a strong relay team, highlighted by its 4x400m squad, which won a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics and holds three World Relays medals.

Among the laureates, 65 women have steadily carved their place in history and overcome significant barriers of gender inequality, systemic bias, and lack of opportunity against the contrast of 904 men laureates. Their stories and nationalities reflect broader social shifts and global progress in the inclusion of women in science, literature, and activism.

The first woman to receive a Nobel Prize was Marie Curie in 1903. She was honoured in Physics alongside her husband Pierre Curie and Henri Becquerel for their work on radioactivity. Remarkably, she remains the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different sciences—she won the Chemistry Prize in 1911 for her discovery of radium and polonium.

Since then, over 60 women have been awarded Nobel Prizes (as of 2024), with representation across all categories.

Peace (19 women winners)

The Peace Prize has historically had the highest female representation. Notable winners include:

Bertha von Suttner (Austria-Hungary) – 1905, the first woman to win the Peace Prize.

Mother Teresa (India) – 1979, for her humanitarian work.

Malala Yousafzai (Pakistan) – 2014, youngest laureate ever, honoured for advocacy of girls' education.

Literature (17 women winners)

Female voices have also resonated in the world of literature:

Selma Lagerlöf (Sweden) – 1909, first female Literature laureate.

Toni Morrison (USA) – 1993, a literary icon addressing African-American life and culture.

Olga Tokarczuk (Poland) – 2018, awarded for a "narrative imagination that represents the crossing of boundaries."

Medicine (13 women winners)

Women in medical science have received increasing recognition, such as:

Barbara McClintock (USA) – 1983, for her work in genetics.

Tu Youyou (China) – 2015, for discovering artemisinin, a breakthrough in malaria treatment.

Chemistry (8 women winners)

Aside from Marie Curie, recent milestones include:

Emmanuelle Charpentier (France) and Jennifer Doudna (USA) – 2020, for developing CRISPR gene-editing technology.

Physics (5 women winners)

Still a highly male-dominated field, but progress continues:

Donna Strickland (Canada) – 2018, third woman after Curie and Maria Goeppert-Mayer to win.

Andrea Ghez (USA) – 2020, for discoveries related to black holes.

Economic Sciences (3 women winners)

A relatively new category (established in 1969), with few female laureates:

Elinor Ostrom (USA) – 2009, the first woman to win in Economics.

Claudia Goldin (USA) – 2023, for advancing understanding of women’s labour market outcomes.

Where do they come from?

While women laureates come from a range of countries, several regions dominate:

The United States is the most represented country in terms of science and economics.

Europe: Countries like France, Germany, Sweden, and the UK have produced numerous female laureates.

Asia: India, China, Japan, Iran, and Pakistan have seen laureates mostly in Peace and Medicine.

Africa and Latin America: Representation has been limited but notable, such as Wangari Maathai (Kenya)—the first African woman to win the Peace Prize in 2004.

WHO officials say traditional medicine has long played a key role in many cultures but has often been overlooked in global health discussions.

By recognising it within its health framework, the organisation hopes to promote research, safety standards, and fair regulation.

“WHO’s work on traditional medicine is a response to the requests from countries for evidence and data to inform policies and practice, global standards and regulations to ensure safety, quality and equitable access,” WHO indicated.

This decision means that traditional medicine will now be studied and recorded more systematically.

WHO plans to create official guidelines that can help countries ensure these practices are safe and effective. This will also allow governments to regulate herbal treatments, traditional therapies, and other natural remedies more effectively.

“Integration of T&CM with the national health system and the mainstream of health care must be done appropriately, effectively and safely, based on the latest scientific evidence. WHO assists countries that want to embrace traditional medicine practices to do so in a science-based manner to avoid patient harm and ensure safe, effective and quality health care,” a statement by WHO indicated.

Cambodia to grant Japan visitation rights to China-linked naval base

Cambodia's influential former Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Friday that Japan would be granted visitation rights to the country's Ream Naval Base, a facility the United States is concerned could become a military outpost for China. Read more here .

Twenty years after the tsunami, pain lingers on India’s coast

Two decades after the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004, Maragathavel Lakshmi still struggles with the trauma of losing her daughter and home on India’s southern coast. The disaster, triggered by a massive undersea earthquake, sent waves up to 40 meters (130 feet) high crashing into villages, including Akkaraipettai in Tamil Nadu state, where Lakshmi lived. Read more here .

Africa

Sudan’s women filmmakers are telling stories of resilience with just smartphones

Far from the frontlines of Sudan’s devastating conflict, a new generation of amateur women filmmakers is emerging in the city of Port Sudan. Equipped only with smartphones, these women have created three short documentaries highlighting themes of education, independence, and community resilience. Read more here .

Indian opposition's Rahul Gandhi faces police probe over parliament scuffle

India's Rahul Gandhi is under police investigation over a scuffle between opposition members of parliament and those from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, which injured two lawmakers, police said on December 20. Read more here .

Africa

Syrian mass graves expose "machinery of death" under Assad, top prosecutor says

An international war crimes prosecutor said on December 17 that evidence emerging from mass grave sites in Syria has exposed a state-run "machinery of death" under toppled leader Bashar al-Assad in which he estimated more than 100,000 people were tortured and murdered since 2013. Read more here .

Several children killed in stampede at Nigerian holiday fair

Several children lost their lives in a stampede during a holiday funfair on December 18 in Basorun, Oyo State, southwestern Nigeria, officials have confirmed. Governor Seyi Makinde announced that security forces have arrested the organisers. Read more here .

Kenyan man sentenced to 50 years in jail for killing LGBTQ activist

A Kenyan court has sentenced a man to 50 years in prison after he was convicted of the murder of gay rights activist Edwin Kiptoo nearly two years ago. Kiptoo's killing in early 2023 sent shockwaves through the LGBTQ community in the conservative East African nation. Read more here .

Latin America

Cuba faces severe medicine shortage

Cuba is struggling with a major shortage of medicines, a top health official confirmed. According to María Cristina Lara Bastanzuri, the national director for Medical Technology and Medications, the lack of financing and resources has accounted for the problem. Read more here .

El Salvador says it will keep buying bitcoin despite IMF warning

El Salvador said on Thursday it would keep buying bitcoin, possibly at an accelerated pace, a day after the government reached a financing agreement with the International Monetary Fund that had said it should limit its exposure to the cryptocurrency. Read more here .

Colombia unveils Latin America's largest 3D-printed image of Christ

A new 11-metre statue of Christ has been mounted in Commune 13, a neighbourhood once known for violence in Medellín, Colombia. Called "El Cristo Paisa," the sculpture is the largest 3D-printed statue of Christ in Latin America. It was built using 1,700 3D-printed pieces by a team of young artists and engineers. Read more here .

At a ceremony on December 17, the Egyptian Drug Authority said this step would save $30 million on import costs.

With this, the country is expected to sell 1.47 million doses, generating sales worth LE 1.13 billion by the end of the third quarter of 2024.

Negotiations to start production took four years. Officials say the goal is not just to meet local demand but to export to other African countries.

Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar highlighted that Egypt has 170 pharmaceutical factories producing 90 percent of the medicines consumed locally. He added that spending on diabetes treatment alone is a major part of the annual LE 3 billion spent on non-chronic disease medications.

Egypt needs 17 million doses of insulin every year, as 15.5 percent of its population has diabetes, including 55,000 children.

She added that this has been worsened by the long-standing US economic blockade against Cuba.

Speaking to the Parliament’s Health Commission , Lara Bastanzuri explained that 80% of Cuba’s medicines are produced locally. However, only 24% of both common and essential medications are currently available in drugstores.

Difficulties in the transportation of raw materials and finished drugs, as well as a shortage of containers, according to her, have also contributed to the problem.

Production of natural medicines has also been disrupted due to a lack of key items like vegetables, refined sugar, and alcohol, she added.

Following her submissions, Deputy Prime Minister Eduardo Martinez called for urgent action to address the crisis, urging officials to focus on alternative medicines and improve the working conditions and facilities of drugstores.

Meanwhile, Cuba’s Parliament commissions are working on these issues ahead of the National Assembly’s fourth session, which begins on December 18. The government is seeking ways to ease the shortages and improve access to essential medicines.

Malaysia has established its position in healthcare manufacturing through its glove production, meeting 60% of the world’s demand.

The country is currently considered the top global producer of gloves and rubber-based products.

Dr Dzulkefly said the medical device sector contributed about RM18 billion to Malaysia’s economy in 2023 and created about 95,000 jobs locally since 2012.

He added that the New Industrial Masterplan (NIMP) 2030 has identified the medical device industry as crucial for boosting investments in the country.

This achievement was revealed during the International Medical Device Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC) 2024 held alongside the 28th Global Harmonisation Working Party (GHWP) Annual Meeting.

The event brought together more than 600 international delegates and 10,000 visitors and focused on sharing knowledge, forming partnerships, and solving challenges in the healthcare industry.

This makes him the fourth person globally to have achieved long-term remission from HIV.

He is also the oldest to have successfully gone through the procedure.

Before this, Ahmed faced massive stigmatisation and discrimination after he contracted the virus 31 years ago through an extramarital affair.

He was also abandoned by his family after his diagnosis.

"I was denied the use of the bathroom of the compound, I was not allowed to access the toilet. I was formerly a teacher, so I was asked honourably to stop coming to the school," Ahmed was quoted .

According to the City of Hope Medical Centre, the patient began remission after discontinuing antiretroviral therapy.

Stem cells from a donor with a rare genetic mutation that made the virus unable to replicate were used for Ahmed’s procedure.

The diplomatic crisis between Somalia and Ethiopia is escalating, primarily triggered by a memorandum signed by Ethiopia with Somaliland for access to the Red Sea. Tensions intensified following a cooperation agreement between Somalia and Egypt, which involved the deployment of Egyptian soldiers to Somalia. Ethiopian officials have accused Somalia of collaborating with external threats, particularly Egypt, while Somalia claims the Egyptian troops are for defensive purposes. Nova.news reports Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre defended the troop deployment, asserting Somalia's right to seek security assistance while condemning Ethiopia's actions as violations of Somali sovereignty. Diplomatic relations are strained further, with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud repeatedly refusing to meet Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during a recent forum in Beijing.

Construction boom

Mogadishu is experiencing a construction boom, transforming its skyline but exacerbating inequality for the urban poor, including many displaced by war and climate shocks. Over 700,000 displaced individuals have settled in overcrowded informal settlements, facing forced evictions as land values rise due to gentrification fueled by wealthy investors. Some local authorities have cleared government lands to accommodate property development, further marginalising vulnerable communities. According to The New Humanitarian , The Somali government aims to address the needs of displaced communities through a National Durable Solution Strategy, but faces challenges due to inadequate funding, land ownership issues, and ongoing humanitarian crises. Activists emphasize the need for improved governance and inclusive urban planning to ensure that all residents have a voice in Mogadishu’s development.

Laboratory strategic plan

Somalia has developed its first-ever laboratory strategic plan, aimed at enhancing diagnostic capabilities and laboratory services in the country. Finalised through collaboration between Africa CDC and Somalia’s Federal Ministry of Health, the plan addresses critical gaps in lab infrastructure, personnel training, and supply management, while aligning with global standards like the International Health Regulations. The initiative is crucial for strengthening public health responses in Somalia, which has a history of health challenges due to resource limitations and a fragile health system. Africa CDC provided technical assistance and support from various specialists to create a costed implementation plan and identify funding sources for execution. This effort is seen as a significant milestone in building a resilient public health system in Somalia.

Missile and space rocket testing facility

Turkey is in discussions with Somalia to construct a missile and space rocket testing facility in the Horn of Africa, due to Somalia's strategic location for launches over the Indian Ocean. The country's proximity to the equator makes it an ideal candidate for a spaceport, enhancing the range and effectiveness of rocket launches. Turkey aims to bolster its ballistic missile program and enter the global space race. Turkish officials are hopeful for Somali approval, although the defence ministry declined to comment. News Central reports Turkey has been increasing its presence in Somalia through defence cooperation and infrastructure projects, as Somalia seeks to rebuild following years of conflict.

Ethiopian troops seize airports

Ethiopian troops have captured key airports in Somalia’s Gedo region—Luq, Dolow, and Bardere—to prevent the potential airlifting of Egyptian troops intended to replace Ethiopian forces in Jubaland and Hirshabelle. This strategic move aims to disrupt a deployment tied to a recent defence agreement between Somalia and Egypt. Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have deteriorated further due to this and a controversial memorandum regarding Red Sea access. As reported by Nova.news , tensions are also fueled by the ongoing dispute over Ethiopia's Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which Egypt opposes. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has notably refused to meet with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during recent events, reflecting heightened diplomatic strains.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had previously vowed to re-list cannabis as a narcotic by the end of 2024. However, after extensive discussions, the government has decided to draft legislation to regulate the cannabis industry instead.

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, a strong advocate for cannabis liberalisation, announced the new direction, emphasising the need for a coordinated approach to address the complexities of cannabis use and its economic benefits.

"I thank the prime minister for considering this matter and deciding on issuing an act," Mr Anutin said after a meeting with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin.

The new legislation will focus on establishing clear guidelines for the cultivation, production, and distribution of medicinal cannabis. This framework aims to ensure that cannabis is used responsibly and safely, with strict controls to prevent misuse. The government also plans to engage with local communities and stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and support small-scale farmers.

However, secretary-general to the prime minister Prommin Lertsuridej told Reuters that "It will be a matter of law and debated in parliament where there is already a draft law. Whether it is a narcotic or not is up to parliament."

Thailand made headlines in 2022 when it became one of the first countries in Asia to decriminalise cannabis. Initially intended for medicinal use, the lack of comprehensive regulations led to a surge in recreational use and the rapid proliferation of cannabis cafes and shops.

Due to the surge in snakebites, health centers and hospitals have been ordered to stock anti-venom.

Health Minister Dr. Samanta Lal Sen has also urged the public to bring snake bite victims to hospitals as quickly as possible, the BBC reports.

Earlier district Awami League Leaders announced a reward of Tk 50,000 for anyone who could catch the Russell’s viper alive or dead in Faridpur district in south-central Bangladesh.

This decision has however been withdrawn after the forest department criticised and described it as illegal, local news platform Kalerkantho reports.

“There is no reward for any type of Russell's Viper, living or dead,” He said . “The Russell Viper is currently a hot topic, as well as a threat to the public. Do not get too excited about this snake for any reward or curiosity as it is very dangerous. There is no reward for any kind of Russell's viper, dead or alive.”

A 2023 study found that around 7,000 people die from snake bites in Bangladesh each year. Most victims can survive if treated with anti-venom promptly. The Russell's viper was thought to be extinct in Bangladesh in 2002, but the species has returned and spread to more than 25 districts.

Scientists believe the snake has adapted to different climate conditions.

Snake bites have been a major topic on Bangladeshi social media recently.

These healers, having been educated by researchers to administer HIV tests and provide counselling, are now instrumental in raising awareness about one's HIV status and in the efforts to halt the spread of the virus. This initiative is unprecedented in its scale of involving traditional healers in a major public health campaign.

South Africa is among the nations with the highest incidence of HIV. Despite the free availability of antiretroviral drugs and pre-exposure prophylaxis, the stigma attached to testing and treatment is still prevalent in many communities. Privacy concerns at medical clinics further discourage individuals from seeking out services.

The programme is set to expand later in the year, with plans to train at least an additional 325 healers to become certified HIV counsellors. The University of the Witwatersrand Agincourt is conducting research to assess whether individuals have a preference for testing conducted by healers as opposed to clinics.

Traditional healers are often the primary healthcare providers in rural areas. The initiative aims to leverage its position to alter public perceptions about HIV. Wonderful Mabuza, a researcher on the pilot project, emphasizes the improved access provided by traditional healers. "In some villages, the absence of clinics means residents must undertake long journeys to reach one. But with a traditional healer who can test for HIV in the vicinity, access is greatly facilitated," he notes.

The researchers are hopeful that the involvement of traditional medicine practitioners in testing and treatment could lead to the eradication of new HIV infections in locales such as rural Mpumalanga. Their ultimate aspiration is to motivate the South African government to adopt the program at a national level.

Mongolia has the highest record of Hepatitis D patients, with current figures standing at 36.5 percent, the highest in the world.

According to the Mongolian National News Agency , over five percent of hepatitis B patients develop hepatitis D, a 'satellite' virus that is usually associated with hepatitis B.

The European Union and the Russian Federation have manufactured Bulevirtide, an antiviral medication used globally to stop the entry of the Hepatitis D virus into liver cells.

Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister, Ramadan Abu Janah confirmed that the first consignment of medical supplies has already arrived at various warehouses.

These medicines will be supplied based on a new distribution mechanism based on hospital performance and bed numbers to ensure equitable distribution.

Abu Janah further announced that seven health centres across the country have already received 70% of oncology medicines while other diabetes centres are being supplied medication for chronic diseases.

Local reports indicate further plans by the ministry to implement a digital transformation project, health insurance, and training initiatives aimed at improving medical staff performance.

Following his passing, Slayman's family expressed their deep sorrow but also highlighted the inspiration he provided to millions worldwide.

"Our family is deeply saddened about the sudden passing of our beloved Rick but take great comfort knowing he inspired so many," the family shared .

"We felt and still feel comforted by the optimism he provided patients desperately waiting for a transplant," they added.

The Massachusetts General Hospital (MBH), where the procedure took place, stated on May 11, emphasising that there was no indication that Slayman's death was a result of the transplant.

"Mass General is deeply saddened at the sudden passing of Mr. Rick Slayman. We have no indication that it was the result of his recent transplant," the hospital stated.

"Mr Slayman will forever be seen as a beacon of hope to countless transplant patients worldwide, and we are deeply grateful for his trust and willingness to advance the field of xenotransplantation," they shared.

His doctors, following the pig kidney transplant, confirmed that he no longer needed dialysis as the new organ was functioning well.

In addition to kidney disease, Slayman also battled Type 2 diabetes and hypertension. In 2018, he underwent a human kidney transplant, which began to fail after five years, according to the BBC .

Xenotransplantation, the transplantation of living cells, tissues, or organs from one species to another, has become a resort for addressing the organ shortage. According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) , As of May 13, 2024, the total waiting list of candidates for people in need of life-saving organ transplants is 104,181. Of those, 58,877 are active waiting list candidates.

Slayman’s passing becomes the third failed transplant of a pig organ into a living human. The first two cases were heart transplants.

With major sponsorship from U.S. investors, the initiative aims to attract patients who would otherwise seek medical services abroad. However, the plan for a for-profit hospital in a country grappling with a collapsing health system is facing criticism.

Africans currently spend over $5 billion annually on medical services outside the continent, with many seeking solutions for noncommunicable diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. Ethiopians alone spend approximately $500 million on medical tourism.

Former Health Minister Lia Tadesse, a key supporter of the project, emphasized its potential to reduce the need for Ethiopians to spend foreign exchange on medical treatment abroad. The government has provided significant support, including allocating 28 hectares of land for construction and offering favourable tax status for imported medical supplies and equipment. 

Despite these efforts, critics argue that prioritizing a high-cost medical tourism hub in a country with a struggling healthcare system may divert resources from urgent public health needs.

This falls in line with President William Ruto’s plans to make Kenya a drug-making hub within Africa.

The provisions in the Act will facilitate the work of foreign drug-making companies in the country including the US-based Moderna Inc. a biotechnology company that develops vaccines.

Moderna which has commenced processes to establish a Messenger RNA (MRNA) manufacturing facility in Kenya is expected to produce about 500 million doses of vaccines in Kenya every year, according to The Nation .

The mRNA is a molecule that contains instructions or recipes that directs the cells to make a protein using its natural machinery, a biotechnology that influenced the production of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Kenya has indicated its focus on the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) programme that enables economic growth under which Morderna will operate.

Kenya has been a major exporter of pharmaceuticals in the region, making approximately 92.9 billion shillings (US$569 million), 53.8% higher than 60.4 (US $370 million) billion shillings in 2016, according to official statistics, The Nation reported.

The majority of Kenya’s medicines are exported to Tanzania, followed by Uganda, Somalia, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Zambia.

Cuban authorities announced on Monday, January 8, that the price of gasoline will increase by 500% starting on February 1. A litre of regular gasoline will rise from $0.20 to $1.10, and the cost of a litre of special gasoline will increase to $1.30, as reported by El País . Tourists will be required to pay for fuel in dollars. Starting on March 1, the electricity price will also surge by 25% for certain households. These measures are part of Cuba's strategy to address the ongoing crisis.

Interprovincial transportation prices

On Tuesday, the Cuban government announced an increase in interprovincial transportation costs. According to CiberCuba , the rates for buses and planes will rise by 300%, and trains by up to 700%. These new fares will take effect from March 1.

A second femicide

In the first 10 days of 2024, Cuba registered two femicides, as reported by the Cuban platform YoSíTeCreo and the Gender Observatory of the magazine Alas Tensas (OGAT). In 2023, there were 88 cases, marking the highest number since groups like those mentioned began collecting data in 2019, according to CubaNet .

Cuban doctors in Mexico

In an interview with the Mexican radio station Radio Fórmula , Julieta del Río, commissioner of Mexico’s National Institute of Transparency, Access to Information, and Personal Data Protection (INAI), stated that, according to an international report, Mexico granted $10,700 (181,900 Mexican pesos) to the Cuban government for each of the 585 doctors and nurses who arrived in the country during the COVID-19 crisis. The commissioner called for transparency in payment explanations and accused the Cuban government of “keeping” 94.4%.

Storm in Havana

During the early hours of this Wednesday, a severe storm occurred in the municipality of Playa. Approximately 20 homes have been affected, but no human injuries have been reported, according to Tribuna de La Habana . Authorities said that efforts are underway to restore electrical and telephone services.

The Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, announced that the Ministry has allocated 469 million dirhams (about $127 million) to address the water infrastructure damage caused by the Al Haouz earthquake. The funds include 117 million dirhams (about $31 million) for an emergency program focusing on repairing infrastructure, roads leading to dams, and administrative buildings. Additionally, 47 million dirhams (about $12 million) will go towards repairing hydrological stations in several provinces, reports local media Assahraa . The minister also discussed a broader program mobilizing 810 million dirhams (about $220 million) to aid Al Haouz earthquake victims, targeting road rehabilitation, machinery acquisition, and debris removal.

Moroccan automobile market

The Moroccan automobile market witnessed a 25.28% increase in sales of vehicles with electrified motorization in 2023 compared to the previous year. Despite overall vehicle sales in Morocco experiencing a slight 0.1% increase, reaching 145,292 private vehicles sold, the light commercial vehicle segment recorded an 11% decline. Dacia, Renault, and Hyundai were the top performers in passenger vehicles, while Renault led in light utility vehicles. The premium segment saw a 15% increase, with Audi leading, local media Lematin reported.

Cannabis processing

A budget of approximately 45 million DH (about $12 million) has been allocated to establish a dedicated economic zone for cannabis processing activities in Issaguen, within the province of Al Hoceima, Morroco. Spearheaded by the Regional Project Execution Agency (AREP) of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, the project aims to develop a 10-hectare area focused on the processing and valorization of cannabis for medical, cosmetic, and industrial purposes. The allocated funds will cover technical studies, development, and economic zone construction, divided into two sections of 5 hectares each, local media L'economiste reported. By the end of November 2023, the National Cannabis Regulatory Agency (ANRAC) had granted 430 authorizations for cannabis cultivation and production on 277 hectares.

VAT abolition

The Ministry of Health has implemented a substantial reduction in the prices of nearly 4,500 drugs, including originator, generic, and biosimilar medications in Morocco. This decision is a response to the abolition of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on medicines as outlined in the 2024 Finance Law and marks one of the most substantial reductions in the number of drugs affected, reports local media Lematin . This move reflects the government's commitment to making essential medicines more affordable and accessible to the public.

Housing Assistance

Since its launch on January 2, 2024, the digital platform for direct housing assistance has garnered enthusiasm, with a total of 16,302 registration requests, as announced by the Minister of National Territorial Planning, Urban Planning, Housing, and Urban Policy, Fatima Zahra Mansouri. She said that 89% of the registered individuals are eligible to receive this aid. Mansouri also provided insights into the demographics, stating that the average age of applicants is 39 years, with 66% being men and 44% women. The initiative has seen widespread participation, starting with initial requests from provinces like Fez, Meknes, Marrakech, Berrechid, and Tangier, with subsequent nationwide engagement, reports local media Lematin .

The titles are also to help enhance patients’ rights, safety, and quality healthcare, the Association said in a press release.

In addition, all medical doctors, dentists or dental surgeons with additional academic titles are required to indicate so on tags, practitioner stamps, and other relevant materials.

“Medical Doctors and Dentists with additional academic titles will prefix these titles with their academic titles as appropriate. For example, Medical Doctors or Dentists with a professorial rank appointment and or a PHD qualification may be designated Prof. Dr. (Med), Prof. Dr. Dr. (Med), Dr. Dr. (Med), Prof. Dr. (Dent), Prof. Dr. Dr. (Dent) or Dr. Dr. (Dent) as may apply,” part of the release said.

The statement further urged members of the Association to wear their name tags to ensure easy identification in the interest of patients and public safety.

The decision was taken during the 65 th Annual General Meeting held in Takoradi in November 2023.

Fluconazole which is used to treat fungal and yeast infections including vaginal candidiasis, oropharyngeal candidiasis, candida esophagitis, and urinary tract infections among others has been recalled from all retail and facilities following an earlier letter in which the authority alerted the company of discolouration in some tablets.

In the announcement that was made on January 3 on social media platform X, the FDA noted that four batch numbers of the tablet which is supposed to be pink have begun turning white before the expected expiration dates on January 31 and August 31, 2025.

The batch numbers for the four are 5810315, 5810316, 5811390, and 5810022.

The FDA has since cautioned all importers, central medical stores, wholesale dealers, retailers, and all health facilities to return drugs with these batch numbers to suppliers.

The authority also mentioned that importers and suppliers of Fluconazole 200 mg tablets have 10 days from January 3 to report the affected quantities and the final stock in hand.

“The first group of South Sudanese women admitted to study medicine at the university were three ladies who joined a year ahead of us. This was in a class of about 70 to 80 students. Most of the female medical students were Arabs from North Sudan. It was extraordinary to be a South Sudanese woman studying medicine at the time,” She told the Nation Africa .

“I actually felt bad, but I have come to learn that it was because South Sudanese women have been marginalised for long. Yes, I'm proud and happy that I am the first one, but I don’t believe that should be the case…"I was born and raised in Juba, South Sudan in the 1980s. I was in primary school when the war started. There was a lot of shelling as rebels were targeting military camps. At some point, we had to build trenches in our home so that when the shelling began, we could all hide inside the trenches to protect ourselves,’’ she added.

Motivated to give back to her community, Dr Idyoro Ojukwu in 2006, while serving as the director of the South Sudan HIV/AIDS Commission in Torit, played a pivotal role in establishing the first Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) centre in the region.   Subsequently, in 2008, she worked as a medical officer at Juba Teaching Hospital. In 2009, she embarked on her residency in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Nairobi, completing it in 2013 , Women Lift Health reports.

According to the Jica 2017 Gender Equality Report , the impact of the war in South Sudan has had profound social, economic, physical, and psychological consequences on women.

The shortage of midwives was a significant challenge in South Sudan before independence in 2011. However, organizations such as IMC and other partners have played a crucial role in addressing this issue by supporting midwifery education in the country, as reported by Frontier .

Established in June 2022 following the request of African Union member states, the African Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation was created as an institution aimed at enhancing Africa's access to technology for manufacturing the full range of pharmaceutical products, local media The New Times reported.

APTF is designed to address issues confronting African indigenous pharmaceutical firms, including limited human and institutional capacities, challenges in adopting new technologies, and insufficient access to essential active pharmaceutical ingredients required for medications and antigens in vaccines.

Members that will serve in the chairmanship of the APTF Advisory Council include Rwandan president Paul Kagame, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki, Director General of the World Health Organization, Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and CEO of the African Development Bank, Adesina among others.

Africa currently imports over 70 percent of its required medications at a cost of up to $14 billion annually, while manufacturing only one percent of the necessary vaccines, according to AfDB data, quoted by local media The New Times .

“We are committed to advancing pharmaceutical technology for Rwanda and the entire Continent,” Dr. Vincent Biruta, Rwandan Foreign Affairs Minister said on X.

Speaking on the Foundation’s role, Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank said, “The success will depend on building local pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity, assuring technology transfer and access to intellectual property rights, manufacturing processes and systems, equally important is the need to build the pharmaceutical and biomedical research and development ecosystems that can support world-class local pharmaceutical industries”.

Gelsomina Vilgiotti, European Investment Bank Vice President who was also present at the ceremony signed a partnership agreement with the Foundation to support its programmes advancement. She commended Rwanda for being a beacon of healthcare transformation in Africa, hosting various institutions, and contributing to the global focus on improving primary healthcare, diagnostics, and combating diseases across the continent.

According to the vice Chair of the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee in parliament, the plant used for medicinal and industrial purposes will boost Ghana’s economic prospects.

"We're not talking about just a leaf in someone's backyard, we're talking about a whole industry that is being created. And if we have our fertile lands here, and we can grow and make sure that the right framework is in place, I don't see why we can’t take advantage of it," she was quoted by local news outlet Myjoyonline .

Interior Minister Ambrose Dery who was also in the chamber sought to clarify the legalisation of the herb. He emphasized that the move does not mean the legalization of recreational weed while adding that the ministry is now preparing to import cannabis with a THC of 0.3 into the country.

Minority Chief Whip Governs Kwame Agbodza on his part cautioned against the development, suggesting that its use could be abused.

“None of you is talking about the potential of abuse and how that can degenerate into mental health problems we already have in this country. Why are we pretending that this is going to solve our problem? Minister? Do you even know how many people in this country are smoking weed?" he was quoted by Myjoyonline .

The Parliament of Ghana passed the Narcotics Control Commission Bill 2023 into law early this year after the Supreme Court’s previous intervention and declaration of section 43 of the law unconstitutional, hindering the smooth passage of the legislation.

The passage of the law is expected to pave the way for the development of a well-regulated cannabis industry in Ghana, ensuring that its cultivation and usage adhere to strict guidelines and quality standards.

The four-day visit involved inspections of various Egyptian pharmaceutical and medical preparation factories, aimed at assessing on-ground production developments and exploring collaboration opportunities with Egyptian industry partners.

The focus is on forging partnerships and bilateral trade agreements to meet the pharmaceutical needs of the Congolese market with Egyptian medical preparations.

This initiative aligns with the ongoing efforts of the Egyptian Medicines Authority to strengthen cooperation with African nations, expand the reach of Egyptian pharmaceutical products in African markets, and reinforce its regional and African standing through international accreditations that signify global confidence in Egypt's regulatory system.

Genomic Medicine, according to the National Library of Medicine , is an interdisciplinary medical speciality involving the use of genomic information [the study of genes (DNA) and their interaction with health].

After completing this course, the Gambian woman became the first Gambian graduate to have studied as a Mastercard Foundation AfOx scholar.

Sainabou gained full admission to pursue a Master's Degree in Genomic Medicine at the Reuben College, University of Oxford after graduating with a Bachelors Degree in Molecular Biology and Genetics at Eastern Mediterranean University, emerging as the best graduating student in her course.

Her admission makes her one of the first 21 persons globally to be accepted into the University for this course.

She subsequently moved on to work as a scientific officer in the Genomics Platform at the Medical Research Council, London School of Hygiene and Tropical medicine.

She was part of the team that performed SARS-COV-2 sequencing and analysis which helped identify the viral variants and hotspots of transmission in the Gambia.

She is a Molecular Biologist and also the Founder and Chairperson of the Human Genetics Awareness Association (HuGAA).

Sainabou hopes to change lives through the development of solutions for genetic diseases, particularly in her country.

“I believe if I apply the knowledge acquired at Oxford back home, a handful of lives can be changed for the better. I hope to be part of a team that will one day develop a cure and or, better methods of handling genetic disease,” she was quoted by the Africa Oxford Initiative .