Uganda reflects on mpox outbreak response

Uganda reflects on mpox outbreak response

The Ministry of Health (MOH), with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), held a two-day Intra-Action Review (IAR) for the ongoing mpox outbreak response in Uganda. This engagement provided an opportunity to reflect, identify gaps and best practices, and refine strategies to improve the response and minimize morbidity, mortality, and the direct and indirect effects on livelihoods.

Eswatini Advances National Tobacco Control Reform With WHO Support

Eswatini Advances National Tobacco Control Reform With WHO Support
With WHO technical and legal support, the Kingdom of Eswatini is advancing comprehensive tobacco control reforms to repeal and replace its 2013 Act and modernize its national legislation. A four-day drafting meeting in Ezulwini strengthened the country’s tobacco product licensing system and built the capacity of 25 government officials across key ministries.

WHO boosts Gambia’s disease surveillance for rapid polio response

WHO boosts Gambia’s disease surveillance for rapid polio response

Banjul -The Gambia, certified free of Indigenous wild poliovirus (WPV) in 2004, continues its vigilance against polio resurgence following the detection of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) in 2021 and 2024 through environmental surveillance. In response, the country successfully implemented supplementary immunization campaigns, achieving over 95% coverage to curb potential outbreaks.

WHO Ramps Up Cholera Response Efforts in Ethiopia’s Gambella Region

WHO Ramps Up Cholera Response Efforts in Ethiopia’s Gambella Region

Gambella, Ethiopia – The World Health Organization (WHO) has intensified its response efforts to combat a cholera outbreak in Ethiopia’s Gambella region, which has infected more than 1,200 people. The outbreak, first detected in Akobo Woreda on February 11, has since spread to eight woredas and four refugee camps. 

Women rising: Progress, challenges & the road ahead – International Women’s Day 2025

WHO Botswana celebrates International Women's Day

International Women’s Day is an important occasion for reflecting on the progress made toward gender equality, celebrating the achievements of women, and recognizing the challenges that still remain. This year’s theme, "For All Women and Girls- Rights, Equality, Empowerment," serves as a reminder of both the strides women have made in various sectors and the barriers that persist. As Selelo aptly stated, "This day is not only a celebration of our achievements, but a reminder of the work still ahead of us to ensure true equality for all women and girls."

Strengthening health security: Ethiopia transforms public health emergency management through innovative digital ePHEM system

Strengthening health security: Ethiopia transforms public health emergency management through innovative digital ePHEM system

The Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL), with funding from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), recently concluded Training of Trainers (TOT) to advance Ethiopia’s Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) through digital innovation.

South Sudan: Investing in critical health infrastructure for improved health delivery

South Sudan: Investing in critical health infrastructure for improved health delivery

Juba - Chief Amet Mabior Yel, a 72-year-old traditional leader in Madhol Payam, Awiel East County, could not hold back his excitement. Dressed in his traditional chieftaincy attire and singing at the top of his voice while performing his favorite traditional dance, Yel was witnessing a historic moment in his lifetime —the grand opening of Madhol hospital - located just meters away from his house.

Tanzania Confirms First Cases of Mpox Virus Disease

MPOX

Dar es Salaam - Tanzania has confirmed its first two cases of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox), following a laboratory report conducted on March 9th in Dar es Salaam. This marks the first time the disease has been reported in the country.

The government, with the support of the World Health Organization(WHO) and partners, has been reinforcing emergency preparedness with a focus on strengthening capacity to detect, confirm and respond to public health emergencies in recent times. 

Breaking Barriers: Sindrella Anna Ayo’s journey as a female driver

Breaking Barriers: Sindrella Anna Ayo’s journey as a female driver

Sindrella Anna Ayo, a 35-year-old driver at the World Health Organization (WHO) Uganda Country office, has become a beacon of inspiration in a profession traditionally dominated by men. She has successfully carved out a space for herself, challenging stereotypes and proving that women can excel behind the wheel. Her journey is one of determination, resilience and breaking barriers.

A social worker and nurse by training, Sindrella was born and raised in Lira district, northern Uganda. She is the fifth born in a family of four girls and two boys. 

Collaborating for Health: Sierra Leone Leverages Partnerships to Boost Pandemic Preparedness

state house

State House, Freetown, Sierra Leone – March 7, 2025 – President Julius Maada Bio received a delegation led by the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, comprising representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Chief Medical Officer, and the Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency to announce and discuss implementation of activities of the $20 million from the Pandemic Fund.