Topic · Baobab Pulse
Health
Public health, medicine, and healthcare systems.
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·3 hours ago
Financial Crimes Commission uncovers serious flaws in Mauritius' dangerous drug import control system
The Financial Crimes Commission FCC has identified significant vulnerabilities in Mauritius' system for controlling the import of dangerous drugs, warning that these weaknesses could be exploited by criminal networks. The FCC's report, a Financial Crimes Prevention Review, was initiated following allegations of questionable practices surrounding the import and monitoring of strictly controlled medications. The investigation specifically focused on pregabalin, marketed as Pregatas, Nervigen P, and Nervigen NP, which are classified as dangerous drugs due to their potential for abuse. The FCC concluded that the control system is undermined by poor governance, insufficient oversight, and an over-reliance on manual procedures within the Ministry of Health's pharmacology department. Additional issues include inadequate management of import quotas, ineffective monitoring mechanisms, poor traceability, and documentation management that fails to meet transparency and security standards. These dysfunctions, according to the Commission, create opportunities for quota manipulation, irregular authorizations, collusion among stakeholders, document falsification, corruption, bribery, and the diversion of dangerous drugs into illicit channels. The report also highlights that these failures could facilitate the financing of drug trafficking activities. The absence of secure IT systems further compromises authorities' ability to effectively track sensitive products, limiting control, audit, an
2 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Nigeria requires N720bn additional funding to reduce maternal and newborn deaths
Nigeria needs an additional N720bn to adequately fund interventions aimed at reducing maternal and newborn deaths, according to Dr. Dayo Adeyanju, National Lead of the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative. Speaking at a maternal health roundtable organized by Nigeria Health Watch in Abuja, Dr. Adeyanju stated that Nigeria's 2025 National Annual Operational Plan for the health sector is estimated at N3.68tn, with N1.7tn from government funding and N1.25tn from development partners, leaving a N720bn financing gap. Stakeholders called for increased domestic investment in maternal and newborn healthcare, warning that inadequate financing, poor budget implementation, and weak accountability contribute to high mortality rates. Nigeria faces one of the world's highest maternal and neonatal mortality burdens, recording over 572 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births and 41 neonatal deaths per 1,000 live births. The Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative, launched in 2024, aims to reduce maternal mortality by 30% and neonatal mortality by 20% by 2027, focusing on 172 priority Local Government Areas. Dr. Adeyanju identified delays in seeking and receiving healthcare, and poor coordination as major contributing factors. Dr. Biobele Davidson, Strategic Health Systems Lead at BudgIT Foundation, noted that Nigeria accounts for 19-20% of global maternal deaths, with approximately 82,000 Nigerian women dying annually from preventable pregn
4 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 hours ago
Federal Government expands cancer treatment funding and boosts local drug production
The Federal Government has increased financial support for cancer patients through health funds and insurance, while also investing in local research, drug production, and clinical trials to improve access to affordable cancer care. This was announced by Prof Usman Malami, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, at the Best of American Society of Clinical Oncology Africa 2026 conference in Abuja. Initiatives include the Catastrophic Health Fund under the National Health Insurance Authority, which subsidizes cancer prevention, diagnosis, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, and the National Cancer Health Fund managed by NICRAT for indigent patients. The Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain aims to accelerate local production of cancer medicines to reduce reliance on imports. Dr. Lolade Adewale, Special Adviser on Research and Innovation to the Minister of State for Health, noted that Nigeria has begun three immunotherapy clinical studies, making advanced cancer medicines like Nivolumab and Keytruda available free of charge through trials. Dr. Miriam Mutebi, Immediate Past President of AORTIC, highlighted Africa's low contribution to global cancer research despite its significant disease burden, urging increased domestic investment. Dr. Julie Gralow, Chief Medical Officer of ASCO, emphasized the need to adapt global scientific advances to African settings and address affordability. Dr. Abiola Ibraheem, AORTIC Vice-Pre
11 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·13 hours ago
Over 2,600 nursing graduates fail national assessment in Namibia since last year
More than 2,600 nursing and midwifery graduates in Namibia have failed the national examination required to practice since last year, raising concerns about the quality of nursing training. Statistics presented by the Health Professions Councils of Namibia HPCNA to parliament's standing committee on education show that out of 5,427 graduates evaluated, 2,683 failed, including those who did not attend the examination. For nurse and midwife practitioner graduates, only 600 out of 1,523 passed, resulting in a 39% pass rate. Among staff nurse graduates, 1,984 out of 3,904 passed, a 51% pass rate. Member of parliament Lilian Lutuhezi noted various factors contributing to failure, such as incomplete courses or non-attendance. Committee chairperson Marlyn Mbakera questioned the quality of graduates and asked the HPCNA to provide institutional statistics to identify areas for improvement. The HPCNA reported that the June 2025 evaluation session had the highest number of failures, with staff nurse graduates struggling with ethos and professional practice. The Namibia Nurses Union Nanu secretary general Junias Shilunga expressed concern over the failure rate, advocating for a single national curriculum and fair examination setting methods. He also highlighted issues like high examination fees and travel costs for graduates. The assessment became compulsory in January 2025 to ensure only competent graduates enter the profession. Labour expert Herbert Jauch called for an urgent review of
4 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·17 hours ago
Federal Government expands cancer patient support funds and local research initiatives
The Federal Government has increased financial support for cancer patients through health funds and insurance initiatives, while also boosting investments in local research, drug production, and clinical trials to enhance access to affordable cancer care. This was announced by Professor Usman Malami, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, at the Best of American Society of Clinical Oncology Africa 2026 conference in Abuja. Professor Malami noted that interventions like the Catastrophic Health Fund and the National Cancer Health Fund are in place to subsidize treatment and provide financial assistance to indigent patients. The Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain aims to accelerate local production of cancer medicines, reducing reliance on imports. Dr. Lolade Adewale, Special Adviser on Research and Innovation to the Minister of State for Health, highlighted expanded insurance coverage and the commencement of three immunotherapy clinical studies in Nigeria, offering advanced cancer medicines like Nivolumab and Keytruda free to eligible participants. Dr. Miriam Mutebi, Immediate Past President of AORTIC, emphasized the need for increased domestic investment in cancer research in Africa, which currently contributes only about eight percent of global research despite a significant disease burden. Dr. Julie Gralow, Chief Medical Officer of ASCO, stressed the importance of locally generated evidence for cancer thera
4 min read
🇩🇿Algérie360·19 hours ago
Algeria faces record heatwave with temperatures up to 49°C in several wilayas
Algeria is experiencing an intense heatwave, with the National Office of Meteorology ONM issuing special bulletins confirming extreme temperatures across much of the country. On Monday, July 13, temperatures were expected to reach up to 49°C in parts of the Grand South, specifically in Adrar, In Salah, and Bordj Badji Mokhtar, persisting until at least Tuesday. Northern wilayas are also affected, with areas like Mascara, Relizane, Chlef, Aïn Defla, Tizi Ouzou, M’Sila, and Guelma experiencing 44-45°C on Monday, potentially rising to 46-47°C on Tuesday. Other northern wilayas, including Sidi Bel Abbès, Saïda, Tiaret, Tissemsilt, Médéa, Djelfa, Bouira, Bordj Bou Arréridj, Sétif, Mila, Constantine, Souk Ahras, Batna, Oum El Bouaghi, Khenchela, and Tébessa, are under surveillance for temperatures between 44 and 45°C, also until Tuesday. Coastal wilayas such as Béjaïa, Jijel, Skikda, Annaba, and El Tarf are seeing sustained heat of 40-42°C, with inland areas reaching 44-46°C. In addition to the heat, the ONM has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms with rain in the Grand South, affecting Tamanrasset, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, and In Guezzam, from 3 PM Monday until 3 AM Tuesday. This heatwave follows previous alerts, with temperatures of 45-48°C reported in over 35 wilayas on July 12, and a double alert for heatwave and thunderstorms on July 11. The lack of nocturnal recovery, with morning temperatures remaining high 25-28°C in the North, 30-35°C in the South, exacerbates health risks
3 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·21 hours ago
Senegal's baccalaureate exam: reducing pressure and diversifying pathways to success
The emotional burden surrounding the baccalaureate exam in Senegal has become excessive, highlighted by the presumed suicide of a student after failing and a candidate's distress during results announcements. The annual release of results creates intense tension for thousands of candidates and their families, with public readings and community scrutiny adding to the psychological pressure. The recurring presence of firefighters and emergency services at result announcements underscores the stress. Many advocate for modernizing procedures, using digital technologies for discreet access to results, to alleviate this pressure. Beyond the announcement process, the baccalaureate's role in the collective imagination is questioned. In many families and communities, it is seen as the primary, if not sole, path to social success, leading to considerable pressure on young people, sometimes at the expense of their psychological well-being. While an important diploma, it should not define an individual's worth or solely determine their future, as many successful paths exist outside general education. This discussion also reignites debate on valuing technical education, vocational training, and craftsmanship. With shortages of skilled labor in certain professions, observers believe it is crucial to diversify success models offered to young people. Reducing pressure around the baccalaureate, while enhancing education quality and valuing practical skills, could significantly support Senegal
2 min read
🇪🇬Egypt Today·21 hours ago
Ministry of Health warns of three diseases transmitted from mother to fetus
The Ministry of Health and Population has issued a warning about three significant diseases that can be transmitted from an infected mother to her fetus during pregnancy: hepatitis B virus HBV, human immunodeficiency virus HIV, and syphilis. The ministry highlighted that early detection is crucial for timely medical intervention, which helps in treatment, reduces infection spread, and prevents potential complications. This screening effort is part of the president's initiative for maternal and fetal health, under the "100 Million Healthy Lives" campaign. Pregnant women are encouraged to utilize the free screening and follow-up services provided by the initiative, which aims to deliver essential healthcare for both mother and child throughout pregnancy. For more information, citizens can contact hotlines 105 or 15335.
1 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Namibia implements N$1.5 billion fencing strategy to protect FMD-free status
The Namibian government is investing N$1.5 billion in a fencing strategy within the ||Kharas region to maintain its foot-and-mouth disease FMD-free status. Minister of agriculture, fisheries, water and land reform Inge Zaamwani stated that the veterinary fencing project aims to bolster FMD defenses, establish buffer zones, and safeguard beef exports. Namibia currently holds an FMD-free status without vaccination, allowing it to export to markets such as the European Union and China. Recent FMD outbreaks in neighboring countries, including South Africa's Northern Cape province and Botswana, necessitate increased surveillance and preparedness. Strict movement restrictions have been enforced at southern border posts like Noordoewer and Ariamsvlei to protect livestock and the meat export industry. FMD is a highly contagious trans-boundary animal disease that can severely impact livestock, farmers' livelihoods, national food security, and the agricultural sector. The fencing initiatives include establishing disease-control buffer zones, border and quarantine measures, and upgrading existing fences. The ministry rejected an initial N$179 million quotation for fence erection due to pricing and procurement concerns, and a new bid process is underway for two veterinary cordon fences: a 155km stretch along the Orange River and a 30km section between Klein Manasse and Mata-Mata border posts. The minister emphasized that an FMD introduction into Namibia would lead to significant economic
2 min read
🇧🇫Lefaso.net·1 day ago
JCI Ouaga Synergie reinforces commitment to sickle cell disease fight in Burkina Faso
JCI Ouaga Synergie held the 12th edition of its "All United Against Sickle Cell Disease" project in Ouagadougou on Saturday, July 11, 2026. This initiative aims to raise public awareness, promote screening, and support individuals living with the hereditary disease. The executive president of JCI Ouaga Synergie stated that the initiative aligns with the organization's 2026 mandate, which prioritizes community impact. He emphasized that sickle cell disease affects entire families who need support and understanding. Iklil Kéré, when asked about the project's goals, explained that it seeks to support affected individuals and prevent the disease among young people, particularly by encouraging informed decisions before marriage. The event included the donation of essential supplies, such as B vitamins, folic acid, and vaccines, to the Charles-de-Gaulle University Hospital Center to improve patient care. Beyond the donation, the day's program featured awareness communications and a public screening campaign. Aboubacar Traoré, national president of JCI Burkina Faso, commended JCI Ouaga Synergie's consistent efforts over twelve years, highlighting the project as an example of young leaders addressing community concerns. He urged other local JCI Burkina Faso organizations to emulate this initiative. Aymar Teeg Wende Kaboré, the patron of this 12th edition, represented by his wife, stressed the need for all stakeholders to be involved in the fight against the disease, describing it as
4 min read
🇩🇿Algérie360·1 day ago
Algeria braces for extreme heatwave with temperatures up to 48°C across 35 wilayas until July 20
Algeria is experiencing an intense heatwave, with the National Meteorological Office issuing a special bulletin for exceptionally high temperatures. Over 35 wilayas across the country are expected to see temperatures between 45 and 48°C in the shade. This heatwave is projected to continue until at least July 20. A first group of wilayas, including Sidi Bel Abbès, Tissemsilt, Relizane, Béjaïa, M'Sila, Tiaret, Mila, Guelma, Tizi Ouzou, Chlef, Batna, Annaba, Djelfa, Constantine, Skikda, Jijel, Aïn Defla, Médéa, El Tarf, Saïda, Bouira, and Mascara, are under a direct alert. A second group, comprising Souk Ahras, Timimoun, In Salah, Laghouat, Bordj Bou Arréridj, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, Tamanrasset, Oum El Bouaghi, Tébessa, Sétif, Tlemcen, El Bayadh, Khenchela, Adrar, and Naâma, is also affected. The peak of the heatwave is anticipated on Monday, with interior regions of the west, center, and east expecting highs between 45 and 47°C. Coastal areas will experience temperatures between 38 and 45°C, while southern wilayas in the Sahara could reach 40 to 49°C. A significant concern is the lack of nocturnal relief, with night temperatures remaining high, between 25 and 28°C in the north and 30 to 35°C in the south, exacerbating health risks, especially for the elderly, children, and chronically ill. The Ministry of Interior advises avoiding direct sun exposure between 11 am and 4 pm, staying hydrated, and limiting travel during the hottest hours. It is also strictly forbidden to leave chil
3 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·2 days ago
Vice President Hungley inaugurates MauZen, Mauritius' first youth-focused sexual, reproductive, and mental health space
Vice President Robert Hungley inaugurated MauZen, Mauritius' first free, confidential, and walk-in sexual, reproductive, and mental health space dedicated to young people. MauZen also offers GenZee, a 24/7 chatbot providing reliable sexual health information. Hungley emphasized that challenges faced by Mauritian youth, such as early pregnancies, addictions, online exploitation, mental health difficulties, and sexually transmitted infections, are not individual failures but symptoms of structural inequalities. He stated that young people are citizens with rights, aspirations, and immense potential, not statistics or problems to manage. The Vice President highlighted the importance of human connection over punishment in addiction prevention, noting that prevention begins with trust. He also called upon boys and young men to be essential partners in equality, promoting masculinities based on respect, empathy, and responsibility, and stressing that consent is non-negotiable. Regarding the GenZee chatbot, Hungley acknowledged that technology cannot replace human relationships but can open doors previously closed by shame and fear, empowering young people with reliable information. He concluded by stating that the Republic owes its youth a society where no child grows up in shame, no adolescent faces a crisis alone, and no young person is deprived of information or support due to their location or situation. MauZen is an initiative of the MFPWA, funded by the European Union, under
3 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·2 days ago
Federal Government unveils plans to reduce cancer treatment costs
The Federal Government is expanding funding, local drug production, and research to improve cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, aiming to ease patients' financial burdens. Professor Usman Aliyu, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, announced these measures at the Best of American Society of Clinical Oncology Africa 2026 conference in Abuja. Initiatives include the Catastrophic Health Fund under the National Health Insurance Authority, which subsidizes cancer care for eligible patients, and the National Cancer Health Fund by NICRAT, supporting indigent patients. The Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain will promote local production of cancer medicines. Dr. Lolade Adewale, Special Adviser on Research and Innovation to the Minister of State for Health, noted the expansion of financial protection through targeted insurance schemes and the commencement of three immunotherapy clinical studies, making advanced medicines like Nivolumab and Keytruda available at no cost to participating Nigerians. Dr. Miriam Mutebi, immediate Past President of AORTIC, highlighted Africa's low contribution to global cancer research and urged governments to invest one percent of GDP in research and development. Dr. Julie Gralow, Chief Medical Officer of ASCO, emphasized adapting global evidence to African settings while addressing affordability and access.
9 min read
🇹🇳Business News·2 days ago
Salmonella confirmed as cause of mass food poisoning at Gabes wedding
Salmonella has been confirmed as the cause of a mass food poisoning incident that affected nearly 200 people after a wedding in the Talha region of El Mida, Ouedhref delegation, Gabes governorate. Ahmed Neji, regional coordinator for the National Food Safety Authority in Gabes, announced the confirmation on Saturday, July 11, 2026, on Mosaïque FM, concluding investigations into the incident. Following the wedding meal, dozens of guests experienced abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and high fevers, leading to their admission to the local hospital in Mdhouref. Approximately 200 individuals received treatment before being discharged. Health inspectors faced a challenge as no food samples were available for analysis. They relied on victim testimonies to reconstruct the menu, with initial suspicions focusing on tajine and mechouia salad, dishes prone to spoilage in high temperatures if improperly stored. The appearance of symptoms approximately 24 hours after the meal had already led specialists to suspect salmonella. Subsequent analyses and investigations have now confirmed this hypothesis. Salmonella is a common cause of food poisoning, often linked to undercooked or improperly stored eggs, poultry, and their derivatives. High summer temperatures facilitate its proliferation, increasing risks at large gatherings. Ahmed Neji urged increased vigilance, especially at weddings and family events, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the cold chain, hygiene rules, and proper fo
2 min read
Must Read
🇹🇳Business News·2 days ago
Ministry of Health addresses medical equipment crisis to avert supply disruption
The Ministry of Health has initiated discussions with representatives from the medical equipment sector to prevent a potential interruption in supplies to public hospitals, anticipated by August 31, 2026. This development follows an ultimatum issued by medical device suppliers due to years of unpaid invoices. Lotfi Ben Yedder, president of the Utica Medical Equipment Union Chamber, announced the talks on July 11, 2026, describing a recent meeting with the Minister of Health as "positive." The sector's representatives had previously warned that without payment of debts owed to over 600 companies before August 31, they would declare a "force majeure," risking suspension of deliveries and maintenance services. The Minister of Health, in coordination with the Ministry of Social Affairs, has committed to mobilizing funds in July and August to alleviate the companies' cash flow issues, though the exact amount is not yet specified. Both parties have agreed to continue meetings for the next three months and establish a joint commission to address outstanding issues, including bank guarantees and late payment penalties. The crisis stems from unpaid invoices by public health facilities accumulating since 2020, leading to severe liquidity problems for companies despite being profitable on paper. These companies are crucial for both supplying and maintaining medical equipment, and a disruption could impact daily hospital operations. Ben Yedder expressed confidence that the discussions an
2 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·2 days ago
African women share experiences of social pressure and stigma due to childlessness
The pressure on childless women is now a public debate, fueled by testimonies from African personalities. Guinean influencer Mimiche Diabaté and Ivorian journalist Konnie Touré have helped open up discussion on the social and digital harassment often experienced by women without children. Following their statements, many women have shared their experiences on social media, denouncing the remarks, judgments, and pressures they face. Mariame Tanou Diallo, a 27-year-old Guinean woman, married and childless, reported receiving intrusive comments about her physical appearance, with people asking if she was pregnant due to weight gain. This led her to reduce her social media presence. Mariame also experiences harassment from family and friends, who question her presumed infertility and suggest traditional healers. This situation deeply affects her emotional well-being. According to specialists and women's rights activists, this pressure is based on the widespread idea that a couple's childlessness is primarily, if not exclusively, the woman's fault. Guinean feminist Kadiatou Konaté stated that this perception reinforces the stigmatization of affected women. She highlighted that infertility can originate from either women or men, yet the man's role is rarely questioned. These testimonies contribute to breaking the long-held silence on this issue, highlighting the psychological, social, and economic consequences of persistent pressure on childless women. They also open a debate on th
2 min read
🇪🇹The Reporter Ethiopia·2 days ago
Ethiopia's changing demographics revealed in new health and demographic survey
A recent demographic and health survey by the Ethiopian Statistical Service ESS highlights significant shifts in Ethiopia's health, fertility, education, employment, and socio-economic status. The survey, conducted from August 2024 with support from various international organizations, covered 797 Enumeration Areas across the country. It found that 42 percent of Ethiopians are under 14, and many lack basic services, with only 57 percent having access to clean drinking water and 40 percent to electricity. Access to hygiene, clean fuel, and technology remains even lower. While 62.5 percent own farmland, only 10 percent have refrigerators and 3.8 percent own a vehicle. Sanitation has improved, but over a quarter of Ethiopians still practice open defecation. The national total fertility rate has dramatically fallen from nearly six children per woman a quarter-century ago to under four today, driven by increased availability and acceptance of modern family planning methods. However, a stark urban-rural divide persists, with Addis Ababa's fertility rate below replacement level around two children per woman compared to nearly five in rural areas. Childhood survival indicators show progress, with under-five mortality plummeting from 166 to 51 deaths per 1,000 live births, largely due to decentralized immunization and disease management. Neonatal mortality, however, remains stubbornly high, accounting for nearly half of all under-five deaths, with 68 percent of newborns receiving no p
7 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·2 days ago
South Africa's NCC announces recall of Spar yoghurt products over potential health risks
The South African National Consumer Commissioner NCC has issued a recall for specific Spar yoghurt products due to potential health risks. Spar notified the NCC about a machine malfunction during production, which led to product blowing and could alter the taste, smell, and appearance of the yoghurts. Consumption of these affected products may cause stomach upset. The recall includes Spar fat free yoghurt, low fat yoghurt, double cream yoghurt, Indulge double cream yoghurt, and Spar active drinking yoghurt. These products, sold nationally from June 15, have a sell-by date of August 9 and a use-by date of August 12. Consumers who have purchased these items are advised not to consume them and to return them to any Spar store for a full refund or exchange. The NCC urges prompt action on product safety recalls. Separately, the NCC also announced a recall of various Jaguar Land Rover models from 2024 to 2027, including Jaguar F-Pace, Land Rover Discovery and Defender, and Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, and Range Rover Velar vehicles, all fitted with the AJ-20-D6 engine.
1 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 days ago
Nigerian Academy of Science urges journalists to enhance climate change awareness
The Nigerian Academy of Science has called on journalists to increase public awareness of climate change, emphasizing the media's role in protecting public health and promoting climate resilience. During a media roundtable in Lagos, scientists and media experts advocated for greater collaboration in communicating climate change realities to Nigerians. Professor Babajide Alo, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academics and Research of the University of Lagos, highlighted the media's reach in educating citizens on climate change causes, consequences, and solutions. He noted that climate change is a pressing challenge, with desertification affecting the North and rising sea levels impacting the South. Alo also linked environmental degradation to insecurity, citing the shrinking of Lake Chad as a factor in the Boko Haram insurgency. He urged journalists to use community language for public sensitization and stressed the importance of involving young people, older citizens, and local communities in adaptation and mitigation efforts. Veteran journalist Wale Fatade described climate change as a public health crisis, not just an environmental issue, and challenged journalists to report on its impact on disease, food security, nutrition, mental health, and healthcare access. Professor Chinedum Babalola, Public Affairs Secretary of the Nigerian Academy of Science, stated that the roundtable aimed to make scientific knowledge accessible and relevant, ensuring science informs policymaking, b
2 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 days ago
Imo State Secondary School for the Deaf faces severe neglect, insecurity, and abandonment
The Imo State Secondary School for the Deaf in Ofekata Orodo, Mbaitoli Local Government Area, once a symbol of hope, has deteriorated into a state of severe neglect and ruin. The school, established in 1984, now lacks basic amenities, security, and adequate staffing, impacting nearly 150 students with hearing impairments. The premises show signs of extensive vandalism, including missing doors from classrooms and hostels, which a caregiver reported has led to sexual assaults on female students by hoodlums. There is no running water, and electricity has been non-existent for a long time due to vandalized infrastructure. Students face hunger and abandonment, not only by the government but, in many cases, by their own families. The curriculum is limited to core subjects, with science subjects like Physics and Chemistry no longer taught due to a lack of qualified specialist teachers and functional laboratories. Teachers posted to the school often seek transfers due to the harsh conditions, and incentives for specialist educators were scrapped, leading many experienced staff to leave. Following a viral video exposing the school's condition, staff members were reportedly warned against discussing the situation with outsiders. The Imo State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Professor Bernard-Thompson Ikegwuoha, apologized for the school's state and confirmed a breached perimeter fence, directing the Mbaitoli Local Government Area chairman to provide security. Innocent
10 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 days ago
Nourishing the body with sickle cell disease: A guide to supporting health and resilience
Living with Sickle Cell Disease SCD means the body is constantly under pressure, even without a pain crisis. Red blood cells break down faster, oxygen delivery is reduced, and the body works continuously to repair damaged tissues. This constant effort demands significant energy and nutrients. While no diet can cure SCD, proper nutrition can support overall health, aid recovery, boost immune function, and maintain energy levels. Sickled cells have a much shorter lifespan than healthy red blood cells, requiring the bone marrow to constantly produce new ones. This process necessitates essential nutrients like folate, vitamin B12, protein, and other vitamins and minerals. Chronic inflammation further increases the body's demands, especially during pain crises, infections, or wound healing. Therefore, food should be viewed as a vital part of the body's maintenance system, not just fuel. Protein is crucial for tissue repair, with good sources including fish, chicken, eggs, beans, lentils, Greek yogurt, tofu, nuts, and seeds. Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as spinach, kale, blueberries, and carrots, help protect cells from oxidative stress, which is elevated in SCD. Hydration is equally important, as dehydration can worsen vaso-occlusive episodes. Water, milk, soups, and water-rich fruits contribute to fluid intake. Folic acid supplements are often advised due to increased red blood cell production, complemented by folate-rich foods like dark leafy greens, avocados, be
12 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 days ago
NAFDAC warns Nigerians about banned alcoholic energy drinks seized in Ghana
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC has issued an alert to Nigerians regarding two alcoholic energy drinks, Bel Ice Vodka Energy Drink and Cody’s Vody Energy Mix, that were confiscated by Ghanaian authorities. NAFDAC warned importers, distributors, and consumers against bringing these products into Nigeria. The Ghana Food and Drugs Authority seized approximately 140 boxes of the products in the Upper East Region due to concerns about their safety and regulatory status. NAFDAC stated that these products were previously banned from sale and distribution due to potential health risks from combining alcohol and stimulants. The agency highlighted that stimulant ingredients in such drinks can mask alcohol intoxication, leading consumers to underestimate their impairment. Young adults and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to excessive alcohol consumption, impaired judgment, cardiovascular complications, dehydration, sleep disturbances, and increased risk of alcohol-related injuries. NAFDAC urged beverage dealers to ensure products comply with its registration and regulatory requirements and encouraged the public to report any sightings of these products or adverse events to the nearest NAFDAC office or via its e-reporting platforms.
1 min read
🇬🇭GhanaWeb·3 days ago
President Mahama warns against dumping refuse in drains, highlights flood mitigation efforts
President John Dramani Mahama has cautioned citizens against dumping refuse into gutters, emphasizing that drainage systems are not waste disposal facilities and contribute to worsening flooding across the country. Speaking after a national clean-up exercise in Alajo on July 10, 2026, President Mahama noted that drains are often clogged with heavy silt, plastics, household waste, old furniture, and discarded engine blocks. He urged the public to use designated skip trucks for waste disposal. The President announced plans to institutionalize monthly clean-up initiatives to promote continuous environmental sanitation, acknowledging that a two-day exercise is insufficient. He also disclosed that the Minister of Finance has released GH¢150 million for flood mitigation efforts, including the dredging of drains. President Mahama praised the participation of citizens, traditional leaders, and security agencies in the clean-up, adding that the military would continue to support sanitation efforts beyond the initial two-day exercise, deploying specialized equipment to remove cleared silt.
2 min read
Must Read🇧🇫Lefaso.net·3 days ago
Cameroonian invention IntelliBra could reduce breast cancer screening costs by 98%
Four young Cameroonian engineers, Anzia Juvis, Fadimatou Djouldé, Guillaume Ndzié, and Fabrice Ndzié, have developed IntelliBra, a portable device that combines ultrasound, thermal imaging, and artificial intelligence for early detection of breast anomalies. This innovation aims to address the significant financial barrier to breast cancer screening in Cameroon, where costs can range from 35,000 to 150,000 CFA francs. IntelliBra is designed to reduce the cost of screening to approximately 3,000 CFA francs, making it significantly more accessible for women. The high cost of screening often leads to delays in diagnosis, which can be critical given that early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes for breast cancer. In 2022, Cameroon recorded over 4,200 new cases and nearly 2,300 deaths from breast cancer. The IntelliBra has received recognition, including awards at the National ICT Innovation Week in Cameroon and the POESAM 2026 Orange Social Entrepreneur Prize for Africa and the Middle East. The creators emphasize that the true value of IntelliBra lies not just in its technological integration, but in its ability to make essential diagnostic information accessible to more women, thereby shifting the diagnostic process closer to them rather than requiring extensive effort and expense on their part.
6 min read