According to officials, a DNA test has confirmed the identity of the last victim of the Air India plane crash that occurred on June 12 in Ahmedabad, bringing the death toll to 260. The crash resulted in the deaths of 241 people on board and 19 others on the ground, with one survivor reported. Previous estimates had pegged the death toll higher, but 240 bodies were identified before this confirmation. Medical authorities indicated that the DNA matching process was complex due to severe damage to many bodies.

Mahaa News office vandalised in Hyderabad, allegations against BRS

Reports confirm that unidentified assailants attacked the office of Mahaa News in Hyderabad, vandalising vehicles and property on June 28. Congress MLC Venkat Balmoor has condemned the incident, attributing responsibility to BRS party leaders. Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka is scheduled to visit the affected channel's office as authorities continue to investigate the attack.

Saquib Nachan, alleged ISIS leader, dies in Delhi Hospital

Saquib Abdul Hamid Nachan, alleged chief of ISIS India , has died in a Delhi hospital following complications from a brain haemorrhage. Nachan, previously convicted for his involvement in the 2002-03 Mumbai blasts, was under medical care after being admitted from Tihar Jail. His death raises concerns over the ongoing investigations into terrorism in India.

India's unvaccinated children: Global ranking reevaluated

India has been reported to have the second highest number of unvaccinated children globally, with 1.4 million behind Nigeria's 2.5 million, according to The Lancet. However, analysis suggests that these figures may not accurately reflect India's vaccination efforts due to its large population. Experts highlight the need for more nuanced comparisons to understand the context of vaccination rates in such a populous nation.

Air India flight returns to Mumbai due to cabin emergency

An Air India flight from Mumbai to Chennai made a precautionary return on June 27 after a burning smell was detected in the cabin. The airline confirmed that the aircraft landed safely and provided support to passengers affected by the disruption. This incident follows other recent reports concerning aircraft safety and security measures within the airline.

The plant is run by TKMD Rwanda, a branch of a Chinese company called Anhui Tiankang Medical Technology .

It was built with support from the Gates Foundation and has been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). This makes it the first of its kind in Rwanda.

Most of the syringes will be sent to UNICEF for use in vaccination programs across the continent. Until now, many African countries have relied on syringe imports from Asia , which can take months to arrive.

The Ministry of Health said the new plant will also help Rwanda by creating jobs. More than 100 people are already working there, and 80% of them are women.

Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, Rwanda’s health minister, said during the launch that the factory brings Rwanda one step closer to being self-reliant in healthcare.

“This is not just about syringes — it’s about saving lives and building local strength,” he added.

Before the fridge was introduced, vaccinators had to travel daily to Magwi to collect vaccines.

Long journeys under harsh conditions often meant vaccines were at risk of spoiling, and many children missed their shots.

“Now, mothers can get vaccines anytime because the fridge keeps them here, safe and ready,” Alex Onek James, a vaccinator said .

This saves parents from having to walk long distances to the town or spend money on motorbike taxis to vaccinate their children.

“It was tiring and expensive, now, everything is nearby. Even tetanus vaccines for us mothers are available,” Joyce Achan, a mother of four told Gavi .

The fridge has also helped introduce new vaccines, like the malaria vaccine, which requires four doses.

Since South Sudan began rolling out the malaria vaccine in July 2024, more families have been eager to vaccinate their children.

Many mothers say the vaccine is a relief, as treating malaria in private clinics can be expensive.

Health officials have seen clear benefits. Martin Okot, County Health Director for Magwi County, said the fridge has reduced missed vaccinations.

“Before, many mothers didn’t return for follow-ups because of the distance. Now, more children are being immunised, and trust in the system has grown,” he said.

The appeal outlines the critical priorities for addressing 42 ongoing health emergencies, including 17 Grade 3 crises, which are the most severe and require the highest level of response.

WHO's efforts include providing emergency medical care, supporting vaccination campaigns, offering mental health services, and addressing malnutrition and maternal health needs in some of the world's most fragile settings.

“Conflicts, outbreaks, climate-related disasters, and other health emergencies are no longer isolated or occasional – they are relentless, overlapping and intensifying,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.

"From controlling cholera outbreaks to providing mental health support in conflict zones, WHO’s work extends beyond the immediate care we provide. We empower communities to protect themselves, prioritise equity, and build a legacy of preparedness. This appeal is about enabling WHO to save lives, protect the right to health, and provide hope where there is none,” he added.

On December 5, 2024, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, accompanied by a delegation of ambassadors and senior officials. Wam.ae reports that the visit allowed the delegation to engage with the mosque's core themes of coexistence, tolerance, and cultural communication, alongside an exploration of its Islamic architectural history. Culminating the visit, President Faye received a special publication titled "Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Lights of Peace," which features award-winning photography of the mosque's striking architecture.

National mass vaccination

In a public health initiative, Senegal has embarked on a national mass vaccination campaign against measles and rubella, targeting children aged nine months to 14 years between December 2 and 11. Health Minister Ibrahima Sy has set an ambitious goal of achieving at least 80% vaccination coverage, following an evaluation that indicated a heightened risk of measles outbreaks, particularly among vulnerable age groups, GNA reports. The campaign is essential for protecting children from vaccine-preventable diseases amidst concerns of potential epidemics.

African arts and culture

The Dakar Biennale of Contemporary African Arts, a prominent cultural event established in 1989, is currently in progress, France 24 reports. Notably, this year marks the first participation of local artisans from Dakar, with five craftsmen collaboratively presenting an exhibition that creatively interprets the theme of the hippopotamus, highlighting local craftsmanship and artistic expression.

Senegal-UAE bilateral relations

In a significant diplomatic engagement, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the UAE met with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye in Abu Dhabi to discuss enhancing bilateral relations. Key areas of cooperation identified include investment, trade, economy, and development. Dubai Eye reports that during the meeting, President Faye congratulated the UAE on its recent Eid Al Etihad celebration and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening ties. Sheikh Mohamed underlined the UAE's strategic aim of building partnerships with African nations for mutual benefit, with discussions involving several senior UAE officials and members of the Senegalese delegation.

Health

Additionally, Senegal and Rwanda have attained Maturity Level 3 (ML3) in the World Health Organization's (WHO) global classification of national regulatory authorities. This milestone places them in an elite group alongside Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. According to WHO , the assessment, which concluded in October 2024 in collaboration with WHO, evaluated the countries' regulatory systems against over 250 indicators. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti underscored that this achievement is pivotal for enhancing public health and signifies a progressive step towards establishing resilient health systems across Africa, with robust regulation being vital for ensuring access to quality medicines, vaccines, and health products.

Octopus Energy, in partnership with Idris Elba, has launched Sierra Leone's first wind farm project on Sherbro Island, announced during COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. The project plans to install up to five turbines, along with solar panels and battery storage, starting construction next year. This wind farm aims to provide clean energy to about 2,000 homes, addressing the low electricity access in rural Sierra Leone, where only 5% have power. According to T he Sierra Leone Telegraph , the initiative will create green jobs and collaborate with local universities for training, contributing to the local economy and enhancing services such as education and healthcare. Set against the backdrop of rising sea levels and intense rainfall, this project supports Sierra Leone's goal of achieving 85% renewable energy by 2030. Both Octopus Energy and Idris Elba emphasize the importance of this wind farm as a foundation for sustainable growth and energy independence in the region, with plans for further renewable investments.

Political risk to remain high

Political risk in Sierra Leone is expected to remain high in 2025 due to ongoing challenges in the electricity sector and stagnant living conditions that foster public dissatisfaction with the government’s economic policies. An attempted coup in November 2023, following a disputed general election, has heightened social instability, leading to increased security expenditures and complicating efforts to implement economic reforms. Sierra Leone's real GDP per capita remains among the lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa, with over 61% of the population living below the lower middle-income poverty rate. Although widespread protests have not occurred recently, the risk of unrest related to unemployment and economic challenges persists. The electricity sector faces operational inefficiencies and frequent power outages, affecting economic activity, Fitch Solutions projects.

$30,000 in damages to citizens

The ECOWAS Court has ordered Sierra Leone to pay $30,000 in damages to two citizens, Hassan Kargbo and Mohamed Fornah, for violating their rights to security during the violent suppression of protests in July 2020. Security forces allegedly used live ammunition and tear gas on unarmed demonstrators, leading to deaths and injuries. The court found that Sierra Leone failed to defend itself in the case and ordered the government to investigate the violence and prevent excessive force during future demonstrations. Claims from the victims' heirs were deemed inadmissible due to lack of proof of kinship and death, NAN reports.

Ebola vaccination

Sierra Leone has begun an Ebola vaccination campaign aimed at vaccinating at least 5,000 healthcare workers, many of whom were affected during the West African Ebola outbreak a decade ago. The initiative seeks to enhance the protection of medical personnel against the virus, reports VOA .

President Bio receives roadmap to resolve 13-year-old land dispute

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio received a report outlining a roadmap for peace in the 13-year conflict between Sahn Malen Chiefdom landowners and Socfin Agricultural Company. The dispute began with Socfin's 2010 acquisition of the SLPMB plantation. President Bio thanked the committee for their dedication. Hon. Shiaka Musa Sama praised the President's timely intervention, noting past violence and unfulfilled promises by Socfin. He expressed confidence that the President's involvement would ensure the roadmap's effective implementation, as reported by Zawya .

Eight countries, including Uganda, have committed to pursue legislation against corporal punishment at a conference in Bogotá, Colombia aimed at protecting children from violence, exploitation, and abuse. Approximately 1 billion children globally experience some form of violence, with only a small fraction receiving help. WHO emphasises the need for effective interventions, such as parenting support and anti-bullying programmes, to reduce violence against children by up to 50%. Despite existing measures, progress remains slow, and many forms of childhood violence, like corporal punishment, are still legally permitted in numerous countries. The conference gathered over 1000 participants, including government officials, children, and civil society, to discuss specific actions to enhance child protection. 

Two Kenyans sentenced for death of Ugandan athlete Benjamin Kiplagat

Two Kenyans, Peter Ushuru (30) and David Ekai (25), were sentenced to 35 years in prison for the murder of Ugandan athlete Benjamin Kiplagat, who was killed on December 31, 2023. The Eldoret High Court judge, Reuben Nyakundi, cited strong scientific evidence and CCTV footage showing the accused following and fatally stabbing Kiplagat. Despite defence requests for leniency and a 20-year sentence, the judge emphasized the brutality of the crime and the lack of remorse from the accused. Kiplagat's family expressed satisfaction with the sentence, though they initially sought a life term. Justice Nyakundi noted that no punishment could replace the lost life, urging the family to find reconciliation. The accused have the option to appeal. 

Uganda urges vaccine manufacturing to avoid hoarding

Uganda's Ministry of Health is urging African countries to collaborate on vaccine manufacturing to avoid future vaccine hoarding, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the Africa Special Convention on Diagnostics, Health Ministry Permanent Secretary Dr Diana Atwine emphasised the need for cooperation to better prepare for outbreaks, highlighting the urgency of quicker actions against virus mutations. She advocated for a common database for laboratories across Africa to facilitate data sharing and rapid epidemic response. President Yoweri Museveni was recognised for his support of disease diagnosis initiatives and stressed the importance of investing in diagnostic capacity, which underpins 70% of health decisions. 

President Museveni discusses Sudan conflict with US envoy

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni met with U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, to discuss the conflict in Sudan and peace strategies. The ongoing fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces since April 2023 has displaced over 5 million people. Museveni emphasised Uganda's support for African-led solutions and dialogue, aligning with the African Union's and UN's calls for a ceasefire. He expressed readiness to mediate the conflict if both parties agreed, urging them to cease hostilities and return power to the Sudanese people. 

Ugandan parliament passes coffee bill amid chaos

The National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024 was passed by Parliament amid chaos, with Speaker Anita Among dismissing calls for her recusal over conflict of interest allegations. The law reassigns the functions of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority to the Ministry of Agriculture. The session, marred by disorder, saw the suspension of 12 MPs due to misconduct, highlighted by a violent altercation between two members. Security operatives forcibly removed suspended MPs and journalists from the chambers.  Among defended her position against the conflict of interest claims, asserting that the applicable rules do not pertain to her role as Speaker.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has observed a significant decline in suspected and confirmed Mpox cases across the country, with 51 new suspected cases reported between weeks 29 to 32 of 2024. According to Nairametrics , there have been 1,125 confirmed cases and 17 deaths since 2017. The NCDC advises vigilance and measures to curb the spread of Mpox, particularly in states currently reporting cases. The World Health Organization has declared mpox a global public health emergency due to a severe outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Man dies during fasting

A 58-year-old man died while undergoing a 19-day spiritual dry fast in Lagos. The police confirmed the incident and stated that no foul play was suspected. The family has requested to convey the corpse for burial, Premium Times reports.

Cholera cases

Nigeria has seen a rise in cholera cases and deaths, with 121 new suspected cases reported in five states. Premium Times reports that the country has recorded a total of 5,951 suspected cases and 176 deaths between January and August 2024. This surge is linked to contaminated water supply, unregulated street beverages, and open defecation. Children under 5 are the most affected group. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare has called for a unified effort to combat the outbreak.

Food security and climate change

The US government has announced a $27 million humanitarian aid package for Nigeria to assist vulnerable populations and build resilience against food insecurity and climate change impacts. This funding, according to Vanguard , is part of the US government's $536 million humanitarian aid package to sub-Saharan Africa and will be channeled through the State Department's Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration and USAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance. The aid aims to address the critical needs of vulnerable individuals across the sub-Saharan region, including refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, stateless individuals, and other conflict-affected people. US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, emphasised the impact of the new funding, stating that it demonstrates the US' unwavering commitment to supporting Nigeria in addressing humanitarian challenges and building resilience against food insecurity and climate change impacts.

Minimum wage

The implementation of Nigeria's new minimum wage of N70,000 ($45) may be delayed due to necessary adjustments. Only seven out of 36 states have set up committees for its implementation, Africa Business Insider reports . The Nigeria Labour Congress warns of a delay, citing the need for formalities and consequential adjustments before the minimum wage can go into effect.

Mpox affects young children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised people, with the new strain spreading mainly through sexual contact. The virus has also spread through non-sexual contact, particularly among children.

The outbreak, which began in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has spread to other African nations and beyond.

Vaccines, which helped control the 2022 outbreak, are now being distributed in Africa, with 200,000 doses secured. However, experts believe mpox is more likely to be contained than COVID-19.

“It may well spread wider within the African continent. I think it's likely that we will see occasional sporadic cases that are occurring in other parts of the world, but I think as long as the health workforce in those countries is alert and able to recognise cases, we should be able to stop it from spreading and causing the kind of pandemic that was seen with Covid-19,” Professor Emeritus of Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Jimmy Whitworth told AFP TV.

This was contained in a global study released by UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO) on July 15.

According to the report, there was a significant reduction in the number of children who have not received any doses of the vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP1) in 2023 in Brazil. The number reduced from 710,000 in 2021 to 103,000 in 2023.

Similarly, the numbers for DTP3 reduced within the same period from 846,000 to 257,000.

Agencia Brasil reports that Brazil moved from its 7th-rank position among countries with the most unimmunised and unvaccinated children after showing steady progress in 14 of the 16 immunisations surveyed.

Head of Health in UNICEF Brazil, Luciani Phebo highlighted the country’s win after years of low coverage of child immunisation performance but urged that more should be done.

“It is essential to continue moving even faster to find and immunize every girl and boy who has not yet received the vaccines. Efforts must go beyond the walls of basic health units, and reach other spaces where children and families are, including schools, assistance centres, and other public spaces and facilities,” she was quoted .

The UNICEF and WHO have reported a stall in global childhood immunisation coverage in 2023, leaving 2.7 million additional children un- and under-vaccinated compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

According to the findings , the number of children who received three doses of the vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTP) in 2023 - a key marker for global immunization coverage - stalled at 84 per cent (108 million). However, the number of children who did not receive a single dose of the vaccine increased from 13.9 million in 2022 to 14.5 million in 2023.

More than half of unvaccinated children live in the 31 countries with fragile, conflict-affected, and vulnerable settings, where children are especially vulnerable to preventable diseases because of disruptions and lack of access to security, nutrition, and health services.

Additionally, 6.5 million children did not complete their third dose of the DTP vaccine, which is necessary to achieve disease protection in infancy and early childhood.

Immunization is strongly recommended for individuals at higher risk of developing pneumonia, especially infants under two years old, adults over 65 years old, individuals with weakened or compromised immune systems, and those with chronic health conditions affecting the heart and lungs.

Vaccines are available for free at barangay or LGU health centers as part of the Department of Health's (DOH) National Immunization Program.

Dr. Lulu Bravo, the executive director of the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination, highlighted the increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure in individuals with chronic diseases who contract flu or pneumonia.

“Especially now that we know that the those who will have flu or pneumonia who have chronic diseases, illnesses can actually have heart attacks and strokes and kidney failure if they get flu.”

Pneumonia, caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi, is characterized by symptoms similar to influenza (flu), including fever, muscle and joint pains, sore throat, cough, colds, headache, and chills. While both flu and pneumonia can result from viral infections, pneumonia may also be caused by microorganisms like fungi or bacteria. Due to the overlapping symptoms, consulting a doctor for a workup, such as a blood test or chest x-ray, is crucial.

Individuals at higher risk, such as children under 2 years old, those aged 50 and above, individuals with conditions like diabetes and cancer, immunocompromised individuals, those with autoimmune disorders, and healthcare workers, are strongly advised to get vaccinated.

Dr. Bravo emphasized that failure to get vaccinated could result in misattributed causes of health issues, where vaccine-preventable diseases might be masked as conditions like stroke or heart attack.