Feature Stories

The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, spanning 30,000 square kilometers across Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti, is a vital habitat with diverse landscapes, including savannahs, grasslands, riverine forests, and acacia woodlands. This ecosystem hosts the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores journey annually in search of food and water. This migration sustains numerous predators like lions and cheetahs, maintaining an ecological balance that exemplifies the region’s biodiversity. The ecosystem also supports species like elephants, giraffes, hippos, and a rich variety of bird species, creating a unique setting for intricate ecological interactions.

However, climate change threatens the stability of this ecosystem. A study featured in The Guardian, conducted by a research team from universities in Europe, IUCN, and Kenya Meteorological Department has examined the Mara-Serengeti’s weather patterns since 1913, noting increased temperatures, variable rainfall, and recurring severe droughts over recent decades. Average minimum temperatures have risen significantly, with Narok Town showing a 5.3°C increase from 1960 to 2024. Rainfall has also increased, alongside more frequent and intense droughts and floods, all of which are straining resources vital for wildlife and communities alike.

Global climate systems, especially the Southern Oscillation Index (which influences El Niño and La Niña events) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), have exacerbated these extreme weather conditions. Since 1970, El Niño and La Niña events have become more intense and frequent, leading to unpredictable rainfall and drought cycles in East Africa. Additionally, a warming Indian Ocean has strengthened the IOD, contributing to more frequent severe floods and droughts. These intensified climate patterns, driven by global warming, disrupt traditional migration and breeding cycles, reduce water and vegetation availability, and heighten competition between wildlife and human communities.

The impact on the ecosystem is profound. Wildlife populations are declining as animals face shrinking habitats and limited resources. Field observations, historical data from Kenya’s Game Department, and district records show that extreme weather events have repeatedly coincided with notable shifts in wildlife distribution and population. The researchers systematically ruled out other factors like poaching, pollution, or disease, confirming that climate change is the main driver.

The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem stands at a critical juncture. Conservation efforts must adapt to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure the long-term resilience of this biodiverse landscape. Balancing the needs of both wildlife and local communities is essential to preserving the ecosystem's health and supporting those who depend on it.

Read full article in The Guardian on this link .

In March 2023, Tanzania faced a Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak in the Kagera region, impacting nine confirmed cases and resulting in six deaths. Through swift response actions, led by the Government of Tanzania and supported by Africa CDC and other health partners, the outbreak was contained within 78 days. Key factors in this success included strong political leadership, robust partnerships across sectors, and efficient use of existing health programs and resources. Regular coordination, multi-sectoral collaboration, and transparent communication were also pivotal in managing the crisis effectively, setting a benchmark for handling future outbreaks.

More details in an article by Africa CDC on this link .

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 4.5 billion people worldwide lack access to essential healthcare services. Amidst global health challenges, more than 100,000 mpox cases and 200 deaths have been confirmed, and outbreaks of cholera and other diseases are escalating. A report predicts climate change could cause 14.5 million additional deaths by 2050 and impose a $1.1 trillion burden on healthcare systems. Experts warn that global preparedness remains inadequate, with lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic largely unlearned. Read more from this report by Al Jazeera.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the mitigation measures taken to limit its spread have significantly disrupted other essential health services in Africa. This disruption has threatened the control of major high-burden diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and malaria as well as the prevention of maternal and child mortality.

While the 2020 WHO global reports for HIV, TB, and malaria show progress in control of these diseases in African countries, there are still significant gaps in meeting the global targets. Similarly, modeling studies predict that most African countries are unlikely to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030 targets for reductions in maternal and child mortality under the current rate of progress.

Prediction models and emerging empirical data indicate that the implemented mitigation measures against COVID-19 such as travel restrictions and lockdowns as well as the repurposing of health resources and suspension of prevention programs such as immunizations will lead to an increase in new infections and deaths, significantly reversing the gains achieved in the control of these health challenges.

A more comprehensive COVID-19 response that minimizes indirect deaths is therefore warranted in Africa. These include implementing WHO recommendations that limit contact with the clinic where possible, such as multimonths drug dispensing, self-testing, virtual platforms for case management, community- and home-based prevention, and care services such as home distribution of test kits, vaccines, treatment, and mosquito nets.

This is in addition to ensuring effective implementation of COVID-19 infection prevention and control measures in healthcare facilities including providing healthcare workers with personal protective equipment and prioritizing them for COVID-19 immunization.

There is also a need to incorporate aggressive recovery plans to reverse the lost gains in disease control efforts and put African countries back on course toward achieving the global targets. This includes leveraging on the wider COVID-19 response enablements such as the increased political will and global solidarity funding efforts to support a more comprehensive response that accounts for the indirect public health effects of the pandemic.

Read full paper here .

The One Health approach aims to integrate the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems, recognizing their interdependence. Although the concept gained prominence during the 2003-2004 SARS outbreak, it has roots in traditional Indigenous practices. By involving multiple sectors and disciplines, One Health seeks to address broad health challenges, including access to clean water, food security, and the impact of climate change, contributing to sustainable development.

Incorporating a gender dimension into One Health reveals how societal norms and power relations create vulnerabilities for women, men, and non-binary individuals. Gender roles influence behaviors that affect human, animal, and environmental health, such as meat consumption, where traditional masculine practices often contribute to environmental degradation. By unmasking these gendered patterns, the approach can foster more sustainable and equitable practices across societies.

A gender-transformative One Health approach goes beyond addressing superficial health issues by challenging entrenched gender norms and power dynamics. It promotes equitable resource distribution, fosters dialogue, and encourages behavioral change to create more egalitarian relationships between men and women. This holistic perspective enables systemic transformations that support both gender equality and healthier, more sustainable interactions with the environment.

Read more on this factsheet by the GIZ Selva Maya programme on this link .

A new study highlights the critical role of addressing gender inequalities in improving both human and environmental health. Authored by Claudia Cataldo, Roberta Masella, and Luca Busani, the research explores how the gender gap—particularly in education and political empowerment—correlates with life expectancy and environmental performance across 155 countries.

The study emphasizes that reducing gender disparities, especially in educational attainment, can positively impact not only societal well-being but also ecosystem vitality and public health. By closing the gender gap, nations could significantly enhance the effectiveness of the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health.

For a deeper dive into the research and its findings, read the full paper here . 

A recent paper highlights the importance of integrating gender perspectives into the One Health approach to better manage the risks at the human-animal-environment interface. Researchers Claudia Cataldo, Maria Bellenghi, Roberta Masella, and Luca Busani emphasize that gender-specific roles influence individuals' exposure to zoonoses and other infectious diseases.

The paper presents case studies on avian influenza and leptospirosis, showing how women, especially in rural communities, face higher risks due to their domestic and caregiving roles. By incorporating gender analysis, the One Health approach can improve public health interventions and reduce infection risks.

Read the full paper here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100530

On January 11, 2023, Uganda officially declared the end of the Ebola outbreak caused by the Sudan ebolavirus, following 42 consecutive days without any new cases since the last patient was discharged from care.

In total, there were 142 confirmed cases of Sudan virus disease (SVD), resulting in 55 deaths (a case fatality rate of 39%), while 87 individuals recovered. Additionally, 22 deaths were reported among probable cases, individuals who passed away before samples could be collected, bringing the overall case fatality rate to 47%. Among the affected were 19 healthcare workers, seven of whom tragically died.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 4,000 contacts were monitored for 21 days during the outbreak.

The virus spread across nine districts in Uganda, including Bunyangabu, Jinja, Kagadi, Kampala, Kassanda, Kyegegwa, Masaka, Mubende, and Wakiso.

Background

On 20 September 2022, the Ministry of Health in Uganda, together with WHO AFRO, confirmed an outbreak of SVD in Mubende District, Uganda, after one fatal case was confirmed. 

The index case was a 24-year-old man, a resident of Ngabano village of the Madudu sub-county in Mubende District. The patient experienced high fever, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and began vomiting blood on 11 September 2022. Samples were collected on 17 September 2022 and SVD was laboratory-confirmed on 19 September. The patient died on the same day, five days after hospitalisation. 

This was the fifth SVD outbreak that occurred in Uganda.

What is Ebola?

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a rare, severe, and often fatal illness in humans. The disease was first identified in 1976 during two simultaneous outbreaks in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, near the Ebola River, from which it takes its name. Ebola is caused by a virus from the Filoviridae family, which includes three genera: Cuevavirus, Marburgvirus, and Ebolavirus. There are six species of Ebolavirus: Zaire, Bundibugyo, Sudan, Taï Forest, Reston, and Bombali.

Transmission

Ebola is thought to be spread to humans from infected animals, particularly fruit bats, which are considered the natural hosts. The virus can also be transmitted through contact with blood, organs, or other bodily fluids from animals like chimpanzees, gorillas, monkeys, or forest antelopes. Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with body fluids of infected individuals or contaminated objects, like clothing or bedding.

Health-care workers and individuals involved in burial ceremonies are at increased risk of infection. Ebola can also be sexually transmitted after recovery, and pregnant women may still carry the virus in breast milk or pregnancy-related fluids after recovery.

Symptoms

Ebola symptoms typically appear 2 to 21 days after exposure and begin with fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle pain. This progresses to vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, and both internal and external bleeding. People can only transmit the virus once symptoms develop, and those who recover may experience long-term symptoms such as joint pain, memory loss, and vision problems.

Diagnosis

Distinguishing Ebola from other diseases like malaria or typhoid fever can be difficult. Diagnosis is confirmed through methods such as:

Antibody-capture ELISA

Antigen-capture detection tests

RT-PCR assay

Electron microscopy

Virus isolation by cell culture

Treatment

Immediate medical care is essential for improving survival rates. Treatment includes fluids, pain management, and medications for secondary infections. An effective vaccine exists for the Zaire species of Ebola, and antibodies administered intravenously increase the chance of survival. Research continues on vaccines and treatments for other species of Ebola.

Prevention and Control

Preventive measures include regular handwashing, avoiding contact with body fluids of infected individuals, safe burial practices, and vaccination for those at risk of the Zaire Ebola species. Outbreak containment relies on a combination of case management, contact tracing, safe burials, and community engagement. Health-care workers must follow strict infection control measures to prevent transmission.

WHO Recommendations

WHO emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and following guidelines to reduce the risk of transmission. Laboratory samples should only be handled by trained professionals in properly equipped facilities. Health-care workers should use personal protective equipment and follow standard precautions at all times.

More details on this link .

Burundi’s Ministry of Health declared a cholera outbreak on Wednesday, 6th September 2023, with 15 cases reported in the western part of the country, an area prone to water shortages.

Polycarpe Ndayizeye, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health and AIDS Control, confirmed that cholera patients had been admitted to hospitals and treatment centers in the municipality of Bujumbura. He called on authorities, residents of affected areas such as Bujumbura, Gatumba, and Rugombo, and all stakeholders to collaborate in combating the outbreak. Residents, especially those in impacted districts, were urged to strictly adhere to hygiene practices to help contain the disease.

Earlier this year, cholera claimed two lives in Bujumbura’s health district, notably at Kajaga beach on Lake Tanganyika. Water shortages, particularly during the dry season from May to September, exacerbate the risk of cholera outbreaks in Burundi’s western region.

Causative agent

Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It produces a toxin that targets the intestines, leading to severe watery diarrhea and dehydration. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), not all strains of V. cholerae cause illness; only specific toxin-producing strains are responsible for cholera outbreaks.

How cholera spreads

Cholera spreads through the consumption of contaminated food or water, particularly in areas with inadequate sanitation or limited access to clean water. The bacterium thrives in environments where drinking water, food, or sanitation is compromised, often after natural disasters or in densely populated areas.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cholera typically manifest within 2-5 days after exposure and include:

Profuse watery diarrhea (often described as “rice-water stools”)

Vomiting

Rapid dehydration

Muscle cramps

Severe thirst

If untreated, cholera can lead to shock and even death within hours due to the rapid loss of fluids.

Preventive measures

Preventing cholera requires addressing the core issues of water and sanitation. The WHO, Africa CDC, and US CDC recommend the following preventive actions:

Ensuring access to safe drinking water by boiling, treating with chlorine, or using bottled water

Proper disposal of human waste

Regular handwashing with soap, especially before eating and after using the bathroom

Safe food handling, including thoroughly cooking food and washing fruits and vegetables

Vaccination in high-risk areas, although vaccines alone are not a substitute for proper hygiene and sanitation practices

What to do if you get cholera

Immediate rehydration is crucial in treating cholera. The WHO recommends:

Drinking Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) solution to replace lost fluids and electrolytes

Seeking medical care immediately if severe symptoms like frequent vomiting or extreme diarrhea occur

In severe cases, intravenous (IV) fluids may be necessary if oral hydration is insufficient

Treatment

Cholera treatment primarily focuses on rehydration. Antibiotics can also be prescribed in more severe cases to shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the volume of diarrhea. Zinc supplements are also recommended for children to aid recovery. Access to adequate treatment dramatically reduces cholera’s mortality rate to less than 1%, according to the WHO.

Regional impact

Burundi is not alone in facing cholera outbreaks. A recent update from the WHO African Region, as of August, 2023 reported cholera cases across 15 countries. Among the latest outbreaks, six countries—Burundi, Cameroon, Kenya, Mozambique, Uganda, and Zimbabwe—account for over 200 new cases. While the overall trend in the region is declining, WHO and other public health authorities urge countries to bolster surveillance, readiness, and community-based prevention measures, especially around border crossings to limit cross-border infections.

Read more here: Cholera in the WHO African Region

https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/373305/AFRO-Cholerabulletin30.pdf

A new report by Oxfam, released on World Food Day 16th October 2024, reveals an unpleasant reality: up to 21,000 people are dying from hunger daily, largely driven by conflicts worldwide. Titled Food Wars, the report highlights how conflicts are not only fueling food insecurity but actively weaponizing food, water, and aid to gain control in war-torn regions.

Manufactured Hunger and Public Health Risks
The report underscores that many of today’s food crises are “largely manufactured” by warring parties. Countries embroiled in conflict account for nearly all 281.6 million people facing acute hunger globally. The destruction of infrastructure, blocking of humanitarian aid, and displacement of people are contributing to severe food shortages and increasing public health risks. The lack of access to food, clean water, and essential health services due to conflict escalates the spread of diseases and malnutrition, especially among vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

The Economic Impact of Hunger and Conflict
Beyond the immediate health risks, hunger crises significantly damage economies. Many conflict-affected countries rely on exports of primary products like gold, oil, and livestock. In Sudan, for example, 95% of the country’s export earnings come from these sectors. However, mining operations and resource extraction have often fueled violence, forcing people from their homes and devastating the environment. This displacement disrupts economic activity, destroys livelihoods, and increases poverty rates.

Oxfam criticizes the current peace-building efforts focused on attracting foreign investment, which often exacerbates inequalities rather than alleviating them. The model of economic liberalization, aimed at promoting export-driven economies, has failed to address the root causes of conflict and hunger, worsening economic instability.

The Global Impact: Climate, Conflict, and Rising Food Prices
The hunger crisis is not limited to conflict zones alone. Climate-related disasters such as droughts, floods, and rising global food prices, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and disruptions from the Russia-Ukraine war, have intensified food insecurity worldwide. East and Southern Africa are particularly affected, with soaring food prices making essential goods unaffordable for millions. This creates a global ripple effect, as nations interconnected through trade and supply chains face economic and food shortages as well.

Breaking the Cycle: What the World Must Do
The Oxfam report calls on global leaders to take decisive action. To meet the 2030 goal of “zero hunger,” world leaders must address the root causes of these crises. Oxfam advocates for holding those responsible for “starvation crimes” accountable under international law. The United Nations Security Council and other international bodies must prioritize peace-building strategies that address systemic inequalities, human rights abuses, and the lingering effects of colonialism.

In addition, the global community must work to strengthen public health systems, create resilient economies, and build infrastructure that can withstand the pressures of conflict, climate change, and economic shocks. The solutions must be comprehensive, addressing the full range of risks that contribute to hunger. Only then can the cycle of hunger, displacement, and conflict be broken, ensuring a healthier, more equitable future for all.

Read full report Food Wars
 

Read also read Global ceremony highlights the right to nutritious safe and affordable foods  on this link World Food Day 2024