Tag Archives: Health workers

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Africa’s health workforce expands but shortages, unemployment and migration intensify: WHO report

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Geneva, Switzerland, 05 May 2026- /African Media Agency (AMA)/- Africa is producing more health workers than ever before, yet millions of people still lack access to care; hundreds of thousands of trained health professionals are unable to find jobs; and many of them are migrating. A deliberate shift linking education, employment, retention, quality, productivity and investment is needed to alter the paradox of growing health personnel numbers and unmet needs, a new report by the World Health Organization (WHO) finds.

Launched on 6 May 2026 at the Second Africa Health Workforce Investment Forum in Accra, the State of the Health Workforce in Africa 2026: Plan. Train. Retain. highlights a deepening crisis driven not by a lack of training alone, but by systemic failures in health worker employment, distribution and retention.

“Africa’s future depends on the strength of its human capital. Investing in our health workforce is not just a health priority, it is an economic and development imperative. This forum provides a critical platform to turn commitments into action and ensure that every African has access to quality care delivered by a skilled and motivated workforce,” said said Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice- President of Ghana.

The report is being launched as leaders gather in Accra to accelerate action.

“Hosting this forum reflects Ghana’s commitment to transforming health systems through sustained investment in our workforce. The evidence is clear: training alone is not enough. We must create jobs, strengthen skills, and retain talent if we are to deliver quality care for our populations,” said Honourable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health, Ghana

Africa’s health workforce has grown to 5.72 million in 2024, up from 4.3 million in 2018. Yet this progress is not keeping pace with demand. The African region currently has only 46% of the health workers it needs.

A defining challenge is the persistence of a dangerous paradox: severe shortages alongside high unemployment. In 2024, an estimated 943 000 trained health workers were unemployed, even as health systems remain understaffed.

WHO has revised the projected health workforce shortage in the African Region by 2030 from 6.1 million to 5.85 million. This is an important signal that progress is being made. However, the reduction is marginal and fragile. It does not yet represent a structural transformation of the health labour market, and it could easily be reversed if countries do not accelerate investment in education, employment, and retention.

“Africa’s health workforce crisis is no longer defined by scarcity alone, but by systemic failure. We are training more health workers than ever before, yet too many remain unemployed while millions go without care. Without bold investment and coordinated reform to plan, train and retain health workers, progress toward universal health coverage will remain out of reach,” said Dr Mohamed Yakub Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa.

Training capacity has expanded significantly, with more than 325 000 graduates annually, but the report shows that training alone will not solve the crisis. More than half of new graduates in some countries remain unemployed or work in precarious roles, reflecting weak alignment between education systems, labour markets and health system financing.

Even where health workers are available, quality of care remains uneven. Health workers correctly diagnose only about 62% of cases and provide appropriate treatment in just 40% of those, exposing health clients to avoidable risks.

Retention pressures are intensifying. Nearly 46% of health workers report intentions to migrate, driven by poor working conditions and limited career opportunities, while absenteeism continues to erode system capacity, with losses estimated at up to 20% of the wage bill.

Despite these challenges, the report presents a strong investment case. Every US$ 1 invested in the health workforce can generate up to 10 times in financial returns and more than 30 times in broader social and economic benefits. Yet current investment levels remain insufficient. Countries would need to increase spending by approximately US$ 4 per capita per year, or expand workforce budgets by about 15% annually, to close the gap.

Participants are expected to review progress under the Africa Health Workforce Investment Charter and mobilize new commitments to accelerate reforms and financing. The forum will also introduce the Africa Health Workforce Agenda 2026–2035, a new regional strategy to drive coordinated action to plan, train and retain health workers at scale.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of World Health Organisation.

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Putting science at the service of fairer and more effective care: An interview with Dr Kadiatou Diallo (Guinea)

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Geneva, Switzerland, 09 April 2026- /African Media Agency (AMA)/- On World Health Day 2026, under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science,” the World Health Organization (WHO) is highlighting individuals who use science to improve lives across the African Region.

A specialist in hepatology and gastroenterology at Donka National Hospital in Conakry, and a lecturer and researcher at the Gamal Abdel Nasser University of Conakry, Dr Kadiatou Diallo dedicates her work to improving hospital care using scientific evidence. Working at the intersection of clinical practice, teaching and research, she promotes an evidence-based approach to care that is adapted to local realities and accessible to all.

Why is science essential today to improving the quality of hospital care?
Science is a central pillar of modern healthcare. It has driven progress across many medical fields and enabled the development of new tools and treatments to manage complex conditions. In a hospital setting, every decision matters and can have a direct impact on patients’ lives.

Relying on scientific evidence makes it possible to use care protocols that have been proven safer and more effective. It also helps reduce medical errors and limits practices based solely on experience or intuition. Thanks to modern tools such as medical imaging, advanced laboratory tests and clinical decision-support systems, health professionals are better equipped to make informed decisions. Ultimately, science supports more standardized and equitable care, which is especially important in settings with limited resources.

Which recent scientific advances inspire you most in your field?
The pace of scientific progress and its tangible impact on patients’ health are a strong source of motivation and hope. In digestive and liver diseases, advances have been particularly significant.

For example, advances in digestive endoscopy now make it possible to better diagnose and treat certain conditions affecting the stomach, intestines or liver—sometimes without the need for major surgery. Interventional treatments, whether endoscopic or radiological, offer more targeted solutions for inflammatory, vascular or tumour-related diseases.

In addition, research into the gut microbiome—the community of micro-organisms living in our intestines—is opening new perspectives, particularly for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. We are also gaining a better understanding of the role of nutrition in preventing liver diseases, including fatty liver disease. Finally, the gradual integration of artificial intelligence is helping physicians interpret certain tests more accurately and quickly.

What is needed to ensure that scientific data are used more consistently in hospital decision-making?
Several elements are essential. First, it is crucial to train health workers to understand and apply scientific evidence in their daily practice. Second, access to information must be improved—through digital platforms, subscriptions to scientific journals and partnerships with research institutions.

It is also important to strengthen hospital information systems so that locally generated data can be better collected and analysed. These data can then be used to engage with health authorities and advocate for decisions that are better aligned with population needs. In short, three pillars are key: skills, tools and institutional commitment.

As a lecturer and researcher, how do you encourage students to rely on science?
Above all, I try to instil a scientific mindset. I encourage them to ask simple but essential questions: why conduct this research, and what evidence supports a given practice? I also emphasize the importance of combining scientific data with clinical experience and the values of patients and communities.

I encourage students to take part in seminars, workshops and research projects to develop their critical thinking and curiosity. Lastly, I help them understand that science is a tool that empowers them and strengthens their role within the health system—particularly in adapting interventions to local realities.

What message would you like to share with young women who want to pursue careers in medical sciences and research?
I would like to tell them this: your place is here, and it matters. Believe in your potential. Research is not reserved for an elite; it is open to those who are committed and persistent. Science needs women to better understand the health challenges affecting families and communities.

Surround yourselves with mentors, aim high and do not set limits for yourselves. Leading projects, publishing research, innovating or teaching is possible while balancing professional, family and social life. Research is much more than a career—it is a space for impact, discovery and leadership.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of World Health Organisation.

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Newly released 2025 scorecard unveils progress and setbacks on health and gender equality across Southern Africa

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Geneva, Switzerland, 26 February 2026- /African Media Agency (AMA)/- The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has launched its biennial scorecard, a critical tool that tracks progress on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) across its 16 Member States. New data, including from demographic health surveys, shows great strides in improving the sexual and reproductive health of people across the region, while in other areas, concerted efforts are urgently needed.

The SADC scorecard offers a regional snapshot of progress towards the implementation of the SADC SRHR Strategy and SRHR targets of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on health and gender equality. First developed in 2019, the scorecard serves as a social accountability tool and uses a “traffic light” system to track 20 indicators.

The scorecard highlights improvements in reducing adolescent birth rates and the vertical transmission of HIV, while sounding the alarm on a rise in sexually transmitted infections and the need for investments to further reduce maternal mortality:

Lowered Adolescent Birth Rates: Twelve Member States recorded a decline in adolescent births, which can be attributed to the high roll-out of life-skills HIV and comprehensive sexuality education in primary schools.

Decline in HIV infection rates: The region has seen a decline in new HIV infections, however, the latest scorecard suggests that the rate of reduction in new HIV infections amongst adolescent girls and young women aged 15 – 24 years is slowing in seven countries. This could be partially linked to a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in half of the countries and a decline in condom use in a majority of countries.

Reduction in Maternal Mortality: Six countries recorded significant reductions in maternal mortality, based on their latest national health data. This can be attributed to the priority given by the region to reduce maternal mortality, which needs to be sustained in order to preserve the gains made.

Strong progress in the decrease in the vertical transmission of HIV: Twelve Member States are on track to meet the SDG target by 2030, five of whom already achieved the milestone in 2025. Despite this success, children and adolescent girls and young women are lagging behind in receiving HIV services.

In addition to the abovementioned gains, the scorecard also identified areas where concerted efforts are needed:

Family Planning: Eight Member States are not meeting the contraceptive needs of women. Investing in the contraceptive needs of women and adolescent girls can further reduce teen pregnancies and preventable maternal deaths, and ensure their contribution to their country’s economic growth and development.

Gender-Based Violence: Sexual and intimate partner violence remains persistently high across all Member States in the SADC region. Though all countries have made progress in putting in place relevant laws and policies, greater investments are required to ensure their implementation, including the integration of SRHR, HIV and GBV services, so that all survivors are able to ensure their health and well-being.

Domestic financing: No SADC country has met the ‘Abuja Declaration’ target of allocating 15% of their national budgets to health. Four countries have allocated more than 10% of their national budget to health. Countries need to accelerate domestic funding given declining donor investments if progress is to be made in achieving Universal Health Coverage, and to reduce out of pocket expenditures for citizens.

“The true power of this 3rd Milestone Scorecard lies not merely in what it measures, but in the action it demands from us. With only five years to 2030, we must move with urgency, we need to accelerate implementation, scaling what works, and we need to support our commitments with bold, measurable, and accountable actions,” said Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Minister of Health, Republic of South Africa.

“Investing in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) is no longer just a public health issue; it is a fundamental economic imperative. Research has shown us that every dollar invested in family planning, particularly among the youthful population, can yield up to $100 in long-term economic benefits, yet our chronic underfunding and reliance on external aid actively sacrifices our demographic dividend. Political leadership must translate into urgent, domestic financial mobilization that meets the 15% Abuja target. Our greatest challenge is the paralysis between policy commitment and real-world execution. The SADC scorecard and mid-term review of the SADC SRHR strategy reinforces that Member States need to reform restrictive national laws, enforce gender-based violence and child marriage legislation, and fully integrate SRHR into climate adaptation plans to build truly resilient, rights-based health systems,” reaffirms H.E. Mr. Elias Mpedi Magosi, Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Since 2018, the joint United Nations Regional Programme, 2gether 4 SRHR, composed of UNAIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF and WHO, has supported SADC to develop, implement and monitor the SADC SRHR strategy and its scorecard, with funding from the Government of Sweden.

“The leadership of the SADC Ministers of Health and the Secretariat, guided by the SADC SRHR Strategy, is demonstrating tangible results: reduced adolescent birth rates, fewer maternal deaths, and decreased rates of HIV. These must be celebrated and safeguarded. However, the 2025 scorecard is a stark reminder that these gains are fragile. Without continued commitment and increased domestic investments, these gains risk being undone. As a long standing partner to SADC, the 2gether 4 SRHR programme remains committed to using the scorecard findings and working with Governments in areas where the region and countries are lagging behind.

Collectively, we must do better to ensure that all people can exercise their sexual and reproductive health and rights and that young people can achieve their full potential, so that everyone can contribute to the economic and social development of the region,” highlights Lydia Zigomo, UNFPA Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, on behalf of the Regional Directors of the 2gether 4 SRHR programme.

“Despite our successes, we now risk a two-speed region where gaps in family planning, HIV prevention, and gender equality strand 94 million adolescents without the wellbeing they need to drive the economic and social development of SADC. To avoid this, all Member States must invest urgently and in sustained ways in adolescent SRHR as a foundation for all SRHR,” concludes Jonathan Gunthorp, Executive Director, SRHR Africa Trust.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of World Health Organisation.

Notes to editors:

The SADC scorecard is published every two years and tracks 20 indicators across SADC Member States, including information on rates of maternal and neonatal mortality, adolescent birth rates, family planning, HIV infections and treatment, STIs, including HPV, number of health facilities offering SRHR services and schools offering sexuality education, as well as number of health workers and budget allocated to health. The scorecard also tracks key legal issues which impact on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Milestones were set for 2025 and the scorecard’s traffic light system indicates green for progress and red for regression, against a baseline set in 2019.

Explore the scorecard

The SADC SRHR Strategy (2019 – 2030) serves as a policy and programmatic framework for Member States to ensure that all people in SADC enjoy a healthy sexual and reproductive life, have sustainable access, coverage, and quality SRHR services, information, and education; and can fully realize and exercise their SRHR. The 16 Member States in SADC include: Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

About 2gether 4 SRHR:

2gether 4 SRHR is a joint United Nations Regional Programme, in partnership with Sweden, which brings together the combined efforts of UNAIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF and WHO to improve the sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) of all people in Eastern and Southern Africa. For more information and for a one-stop-shop of information and resources in Africa, visit the SRHR Knowledge Hub.

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From villages to markets: Burkina Faso leads the way in cervical cancer elimination

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Geneva, Switzerland, 04 February 2026-/African Media Agency(AMA)/-“When I heard the town crier announce that health workers were coming for free screening, I felt afraid: if they told me I had the disease, how would I get treated? But I thought of my children and decided to go,” says Awa, 48, a mother of six living in Ipendo, in Burkina Faso’s Centre-West region.

Like Awa, thousands of women in the country have long lived with this concern, given the challenges in accessing health services. Their situation illustrates a major issue: cervical cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers among women in the country.

Before the implementation of WHO’s global strategy to accelerate its elimination, screening coverage was very low—less than 8%—and rural areas were particularly disadvantaged. Women had to travel dozens, sometimes hundreds, of kilometres to reach an equipped centre, often without financial means for transport or care. Trained health professionals were scarce and awareness was almost nonexistent.

To overcome these obstacles, the Burkinabe government took bold measures, explains Dr Nayi Zongo, oncologist, public health physician and coordinator of the National Cancer Control Programme (PNLC). “The government adopted a decree making screening and treatment of precancerous lesions free of charge. It also equipped some peripheral health centres and introduced mobile clinics to reach women.”

These mobile clinics have become a symbol of health equity: they travel to villages, farms, markets and even family courtyards. Women no longer need to leave their agricultural or domestic activities to get screened. “Screening is brought closer to communities, allowing women to continue their activities while safeguarding their health,” emphasizes Dr Zongo.

The Burkinabe initiative stands out for its synergy of several strategic approaches: removing financial barriers (free care), overcoming geographic barriers through mobile clinics and mobilizing communities. The country also integrated awareness campaigns through TV and radio spots and popular events like “Pink October” and created a national cancer coalition bringing together civil society, community leaders and the media to generate demand. This comprehensive approach has turned the fight against cervical cancer into a national cause.

WHO’s support was crucial in making this vision a reality. The Organization provided technical assistance for developing national guidelines, trained health professionals in detecting and treating precancerous lesions and supported community mobilization. “WHO stood by us to strengthen our capacities and ensure that every woman, wherever she lives, can access this vital service,” says Dr Zongo.

The results are impressive. In just one year, from October 2024 to September 2025, 468 mobile clinic missions were organized in various localities. These missions raised awareness among nearly 2 million women, conducted over 106 000 screenings, performed 715 removals precancerous lesions and carried out over 100 advanced examinations to confirm diagnoses. These figures are more than statistics: they represent lives saved and families preserved.

For WHO, this success illustrates the power of collaboration. “Burkina Faso shows that with strong political commitment and context-appropriate solutions, it is possible to overcome barriers that once seemed insurmountable,” says Dr Seydou Coulibaly, WHO Representative in Burkina Faso. He stresses the exemplary nature of this initiative in Africa: “Removing financial and geographic obstacles through free care and mobile clinics is an inspiring model for other countries.”

In villages, these efforts translate into real stories. Awa, the mother of six, describes her daily life: “We work in the fields, garden and sell vegetables at the market. When we heard about the screening, I was scared. But other women’s testimonies convinced me. On the day of the test, the health workers explained every step. When the result came back negative, I felt great relief. Today, I advise all women to get screened. If the disease is detected early, treatment is easier,” she says confidently.

For many women like Awa, these mobile clinics represent much more than a medical service: they often provide the very first opportunity to hear about cervical cancer, understand the risks, and learn that it can be prevented. This initial information is a decisive step, as it opens the door to prevention and care.

Beyond health, this initiative touches on dignity, social justice, and the future of families. Every mobile clinic that arrives in a village carries a message: health is a right, not a privilege. And in Burkina Faso, that right is becoming a reality.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of Word Health Organisation

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Fighting lymphatic filariasis in Madagascar: Lives transformed and hope restored

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Geneva, Switzerland, 30 January 2026-/African Media Agency(AMA)/-Julien Ranjaivonirina, a 63‑year‑old farmer living in the Fitovinany region, smiles as he reflects on his journey. Standing in front of his wooden house, he recounts how the hydrocele he had for several years limited his movements and prevented him from working as he wished. Today, after receiving care, he is gradually regaining his pace and daily activities. “It feels like I’ve been given a second life; I can finally resume my days as before.”

For many people in Madagascar, lymphatic filariasis remains a difficult disease to live with on a daily basis. Transmitted by mosquitoes, it disrupts the circulation of lymph and can cause persistent swelling known as lymphedema. In severe cases, the swelling can become severe and the skin may thicken. This advanced form is commonly known as elephantiasis. In some men, as in Julien’s case, the disease leads to hydrocele—a swelling of the scrotum caused by liquid accumulation. This condition can be extremely debilitating and lead to complications, making simple daily tasks challenging.

Despite major progress, lymphatic filariasis is still present in several regions of the country. In recent years, the number of endemic districts has significantly declined, from 96 between 2018 and 2020 to 87 in 2023, four of which are now in the post‑treatment phase. The 2023 national survey recorded 15 303 cases of lymphoedema and 14 069 cases of hydrocele. In the Fitovinany region, where Julien lives, the situation remains notable: in Manakara Atsimo, 2922 cases of lymphoedema were reported, while Vohipeno and Ikongo each still count several hundred cases. These figures illustrate the ongoing burden of the disease on families and rural communities, who already face numerous challenges.

To address these persistent issues, strengthening the health system and providing technical support remain essential. Since 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been working closely with the Ministry of Public Health to accelerate progress against lymphatic filariasis. This support is built on two pillars: interrupting transmission through mass drug administration and managing people already affected, particularly those living with lymphoedema and hydrocele. Thanks to this collaboration, Madagascar achieved full national coverage for the first time in 2023, followed by surveys to assess the effectiveness of interventions. In 2025, patient care was strengthened in 17 districts through additional training, supplies and follow‑up.

As part of this effort, WHO helped strengthen medical capacities by training 348 health professionals between September and December 2025, including 17 surgeons specialized in hydrocele management. These training sessions improved the quality of surgical procedures, enhanced patient safety and expanded access to specialized care in the most affected regions. In total, 61 people received surgery related to lymphatic filariasis in October 2025 in the districts of Tamatave (22 patients) and Manakara (39 patients).

Dr Yvette Ramanantsoa, head of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) at the Regional Directorate of Public Health in Fitovinany, highlights the importance of the response. “The fight against elephantiasis is an investment in human dignity and development. Elimination is possible, but it requires collective and sustained commitment.”

On the ground, this commitment translates into concrete actions: regular campaigns, community mobilization, active screening and free surgical interventions. Community health workers walk long distances to inform, reassure and guide patients, helping reduce stigma and improving access to care.

For WHO, the vision is equally clear. “It is together, hand in hand with the ministry and communities, that we move forward so that no one has to suffer in silence,” says Dr Patricia Rasoamihanta‑Martin, NTD programme lead at the WHO office in Madagascar. She emphasizes that beyond treatment, success depends on active community participation. “Given the severe consequences of this disease, particularly in rural areas, it is essential for everyone to understand the importance of prevention, participation in treatment campaigns and access to care. Community engagement and the sustained commitment of all actors are indispensable.”

Looking ahead, the next step is to continue progressing toward the elimination of lymphatic filariasis by 2030, consolidating achievements and ensuring their sustainability within the health system.

Progress is particularly visible among surgical teams. Thanks to WHO‑supported training, surgeons are seeing immediate benefits for patients. At the Regional Hospital Centre of Mananjary, Dr Rynah Rakotomamonjy, involved in patient care since 2008, explains that these sessions have improved surgical techniques, reduced complications and ensured smoother recovery. “After the operation, many express a sense of liberation; they feel they can live a more normal life again, without shame, and it feels like a fresh start.”

In Manakara, Dr Mampionondray Razafindratovonimanana, head of the surgery department, shares similar observations. He describes sometimes complex cases but notes significant improvements: reduced swelling, restored mobility, return to work and decreased stigma.

These advances directly transform the lives of affected individuals. Behind each intervention are personal journeys marked by waiting, doubt and hope of regaining a normal life. And it is in the villages that the impact of these surgical procedures becomes most visible: where patients regain autonomy, confidence and the ability to resume activities they had long abandoned.

In a nearby village in Fitovinany, 60‑year‑old Victor Ratovonirina provides a powerful example of the long path many patients must take before receiving care. Also a farmer, he explains that he lived with the disease for nearly ten years, initially believing it was linked to an injury sustained during a football match. Gradually, he lost strength and mobility and the disease eventually affected his social life and ability to work. Informed at the health centre that treatment was available, he registered and later underwent free surgery. “This operation changed my life: I feel relieved, I’m regaining my strength and I can look forward to returning to the fields,” he says.

For Julien too, the change is profound. Before his surgery, he struggled to work and felt diminished. After finally receiving the care he needed, he enjoys a simpler, lighter daily life. Sitting on a bench surrounded by his family, his gaze fixed on his field— a symbol of his restored routine—he confides: “Now I feel reborn, and I’m confident that tomorrow will be even better.” For the communities of Fitovinany and beyond, hope is no longer a distant promise: it now takes the form of transformed lives, regained abilities and restored dignity.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of Word Health Organisation

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KOICA strengthens WFP’s efforts to prevent malnutrition in Ethiopia

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ROME, Italy, 29 January 2026-/African Media Agency(AMA)/-The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a contribution of USD5.5 million from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to help prevent malnutrition among pregnant and breastfeeding women and young children in Ethiopia by improving access to nutritious foods, strengthening local food systems, and building community resilience.

The contribution was announced during a ceremony in Addis Ababa on December 16, 2025, where Dr. Dereje Dugma, State Minister of Health, emphasized how the initiative aligns with government efforts to improve nutrition and resilience for food insecure families.

“WFP is grateful to KOICA for this strategic investment, delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Health. This is critical to advance Ethiopia’s food and nutrition security and human capital outcomes.” said Zlatan Milišić, WFP’s Country Director in Ethiopia. “This will deliver a triple impact: improved nutrition for vulnerable families, stronger local food systems, and greater household resilience through better access to diverse diets and best agricultural practices.”

The contribution enables WFP to diversify diets and improve nutrition for pregnant and breastfeeding women and young children by providing food vouchers to 5,000 families, allowing them to buy nutritious fresh foods like eggs, fruits and vegetables. WFP will also strengthen local food systems and build community resilience by providing thousands of food insecure families with agricultural inputs like machines and seeds, connecting them to key agricultural services such as animal health, and training health workers, agricultural agents and market retailers in best agricultural practices.

“This new contribution from KOICA reaffirms the Republic of Korea’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s efforts to improve nutrition and resilience, particularly for women, children, and vulnerable households,” said Mr. Taeyoung Kim, KOICA’s country director in Ethiopia. “Sustainable progress in nutrition, health and food systems will be achieved through strong ownership, long-term investment and coordinated multi-sector actions, along with the long-standing multilateral partnership.”

The contribution will be implemented in six woredas across Afar, Sidama and Central Ethiopia regions under the Seqota Declaration, one of Ethiopia’s flagship initiatives to end child undernutrition by 2030.

Malnutrition is a general term that covers both undernutrition and obesity. Undernutrition – which includes conditions like wasting (low weight-for-height), stunting (low height-for-age) and underweight (low weight-for-age) – is a public health and development challenge in Ethiopia. Poor dietary diversity and limited access to nutritious foods contribute significantly to undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, especially among women of reproductive age and children under five years of age.

“The Ministry of Health provides unwavering support to this important initiative to advance our national nutrition agenda and strengthen resilience in vulnerable communities under the Seqota Declaration,” said Dr. Dugma.

The Republic of Korea has been a major contributor to WFP, providing USD70 million through the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to support humanitarian and development responses in Ethiopia since 2021.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of Word Food Programme

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Ethiopia declares end of first-ever Marburg virus disease outbreak

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Geneva, Switzerland, 27 January 2026-/African Media Agency(AMA)/- The Government of Ethiopia has officially declared the end of its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) following the completion of enhanced surveillance and the mandatory follow-up period, with no new confirmed cases reported for consecutive 42 days. The outbreak, first confirmed on 14 November 2025 in the South Ethiopia Region, was contained in less than three months through a swift, coordinated response led by the government and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO).

From the onset of the outbreak, WHO worked in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) to support response efforts at national and sub-national levels. WHO Ethiopia played a pivotal role in coordinating response operations and providing sustained technical and operational support across all response pillars, including leadership and coordination, surveillance, laboratory, case management, infection prevention and control, logistics and risk communication and community engagement.

A total of 14 confirmed cases were reported during the outbreak, including nine deaths and five recoveries. There were five deaths that were probable cases. The outbreak affected four districts—Jinka, Malle, and Arba Minch in the South Ethiopia Region and Hawassa in the Sidama Region—triggering the rapid activation and scale-up of response measures. These included active case detection, isolation and supportive care, comprehensive contact tracing, strengthened infection prevention and control in health facilities and engagement with affected communities.

In total, 857 contacts were identified and monitored for 21 days. Three health workers were infected during the outbreak; two died and one recovered, highlighting both the severity of Marburg virus disease and the critical importance of infection prevention and control measures.

WHO activated its emergency response mechanisms within 24 hours of outbreak confirmation in support of the government-led response. Within the same period, WHO deployed 36 experts to the affected areas and repurposed an additional 28 staff to reinforce field operations. The teams provided technical assistance across surveillance and contact tracing, laboratory diagnostics, case management, infection prevention and control, coordination and logistics.

WHO also mobilized and delivered critical emergency supplies. These included laboratory testing supplies and equipment, viral haemorrhagic fever supplies, materials for the establishment and operation of treatment and isolation facilities and vehicles to support field mobility. These contributions enabled the rapid expansion of diagnostic capacity, strengthened patient care and supported effective outbreak control at the frontline. Ensuring the consistent application of standard Marburg virus disease response protocols was another core component of WHO’s support.

“The rapid containment of this outbreak reflects strong national leadership, effective coordination, and the dedication of frontline responders and communities,” said Honourable Dr Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health. “Sustaining preparedness remains essential to protect the population from future public health threats.”

The response was further enabled by Ethiopia’s prior investments in public health preparedness, including strengthened laboratory capacity, disease surveillance systems, a trained surge workforce and coordination through the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre. These capacities, supported through initiatives such as the Ethiopian Pandemic Multi-Sectoral Prevention, Preparedness and Response Project and the AVoHC-SURGE program, allowed for early detection, the scale-up of diagnostics, the deployment of responders and the continuity of essential health services.

“WHO highly values the timely measures taken by the Ministry of Health and the Government of Ethiopia and remains committed to supporting national efforts to further strengthen capacities to prevent, detect and respond to future public health emergencies,” said Dr Francis Chisaka Kasolo, WHO Representative in Ethiopia. “Ethiopia’s response to the Marburg outbreak underscores the importance of sustained preparedness and effective coordination.”

National authorities and partners are implementing follow-up programmes to support Marburg survivors as part of recovery efforts and preparedness planning. After-action reviews are also underway to capture lessons learned and further strengthen readiness for future outbreaks.

“Preparedness saved time, and time saved lives,” said Dr Senait Tekeste Fekadu, WHO Incident Manager for the MVD response. “Ending this outbreak so quickly reflects a resilient health system strengthened through sustained capacity development, while reinforcing the need to continue investing in readiness.”

Marburg virus disease is a severe and often fatal illness caused by the Marburg virus. It is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated materials. Early supportive care improves survival. While no licensed vaccines or therapeutics are currently available, several candidates are undergoing clinical trials.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of Word Health Organisation

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Senegal transforms the childbirth experience through WHO‑recommended care models

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Geneva, Switzerland, 20 January 2026-/African Media Agency(AMA)/-In less than a decade, Senegal has reduced its maternal mortality rate by more than 50%, from 392 deaths per 100 000 live births in 2015 to 153 in 2023. Behind this progress, however, a more complex reality persisted: in many health facilities, women continued to experience childbirth marked by fear, lack of information and impersonal health care.

Tina, 32, a mother of three, remembers her first two deliveries as moments filled with anxiety: limited explanations, minimal communication with health staff and a feeling of being alone in the face of pain. “They were very difficult births for me. After my first experience, I carried that fear with me during every pregnancy,” she says.

Tina’s experience is far from unique. Her story reflects the reality faced by many women in Senegal, despite the significant progress made in maternal health outcomes.

To address these challenges and ensure that every birth is a positive experience, the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene (MSHP), with support from World Health Organization (WHO) and a major donor, introduced the Respectful Maternity Care (RMC) initiative. This approach aims to place dignity, emotional well‑being and women’s choices at the centre of health care practices, going beyond survival alone.

Respectful Maternity Care is built on three essential pillars: birth preparedness for pregnant women; use of the Labour Management Guide by health workers and psychological support for women throughout pregnancy and during childbirth.

“The goal goes far beyond survival,” explains Dr Ousmane Dieng, Maternal and Newborn Health Expert at the WHO Country Office in Senegal. “It is about offering every woman a positive experience in which she feels heard, informed and fully involved in her childbirth.”

At the Yeumbeul Reference Health Centre, in the suburbs of Dakar, the RMC approach has been implemented for two years. Every other Wednesday, women who are six months pregnant or more meet with midwives for birth preparation sessions. These sessions follow a comprehensive curriculum covering the biological aspects of pregnancy, danger signs, simulations of childbirth positions, breathing techniques, mobility exercises and newborn care.

Following a pilot phase conducted between 2019 and 2023 at the Yeumbeul reference hospital, the initiative has been scaled up since November 2023 to all health facilities in the health district of the Yeumbeul North and South municipalities. To support effective implementation, 45 midwives in the district have been trained in this approach and more than 430 women have received support.

For her third pregnancy, Tina participated in the programme. Aware of her previous experiences, the midwives reassured her and taught her techniques to better manage pain, understand the different stages of labour, and prepare mentally for childbirth. Sitting in the postnatal ward of the Yeumbeul hospital, Tina gently cradles her newborn as she recounts her story. “During labour, I was assisted by the same midwife who had guided me during the preparation sessions. Together, we practiced the exercises again and it allowed me to experience the birth of my son differently—with more confidence and calm,” she says.

This birth‑preparation approach, combined with the use of the new Labour Management Guide, helps reduce preventable maternal and neonatal deaths. The guide simplifies the monitoring of labour and enables early detection of complications, while promoting a more humane approach to care. WHO has supported the training of 2700 midwives in its use across the country. 

“Before, midwives were very focused on complex charts, sometimes at the expense of continuous support,” acknowledges Dr Alassane Tall, Head of the Gynecology Unit at Yeumbeul Hospital. “Today, the tool is more intuitive and allows more time for listening to women and adapting care accordingly.” 

To support this shift, WHO has also assisted in the adaptation and dissemination of a complementary module on stress management for midwives, with 235 health professionals trained. Beyond technical procedures, the emphasis is placed on communication, adaptation to each woman’s needs and the well‑being of midwives, thereby strengthening the quality of care. 

“The preparation sessions with pregnant women allow us to better anticipate their needs and build a relationship of trust by integrating listening and emotional support into care, beyond technical acts alone,” says Gnima Sonko, Senior Midwife at the Yeumbeul Health Centre, trained with WHO support. “The modules focused on strengthening our own mental health help us work with greater peace of mind, which directly improves the quality of support we provide to pregnant women.”

This integrated approach is transforming the childbirth experience. “Every woman deserves to experience childbirth in dignity and safety. This is a fundamental right, not a privilege,” stresses Dr Michel Yao, WHO Representative in Senegal. “Collaboration between the Ministry of Health, health districts and WHO is essential to scaling up these good practices.”

For Tina, the change was tangible: “My baby was born in joy, not fear. I am leaving with a light heart.” A testimony that shows how humane health care transforms lives — one pregnancy, one birth, one family at a time.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on World Health Organisation

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AMA, Health

With Child Deaths Projected to Rise for the First Time This Century, Gates Foundation Urges Global Leaders to Target Scarce Resources Where They Save the Most Lives

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New Goalkeepers Report models impact of global health funding cuts, offers roadmap of best buys and most effective investments to slow this reversal

SEATTLE, 4 December 2025 -/African Media Agency (AMA)/- The number of children dying before their 5th birthday is projected to rise for the first time this century, reversing decades of global progress, according to new data published today in the Gates Foundation’s 2025 Goalkeepers Report.

In 2024, 4.6 million children died before their 5th birthday. According to modeling in the report, conducted by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), that number is projected to rise by just over 200,000—to an estimated 4.8 million children this year. At the same time, global development assistance for health fell sharply this year—26.9% below 2024 levels.

Beyond this year’s drastic funding cuts, countries face mounting debt, fragile health systems, and the risk of losing hard-won gains against diseases like malaria, HIV, and polio.

The report, We Can’t Stop at Almost, warns that if global health funding cuts persist, up to 16 million more children could die by 2045. It offers a roadmap for how targeted investments in proven solutions and next generation innovations can save millions of children’s lives, preventing a reversal in progress in today’s constrained budget environment.

“I wish we were in a position to do more with more because it’s what the world’s children deserve. But even in a time of tight budgets, we can make a big difference,” writes Bill Gates, chair of the Gates Foundation and the report’s author. “I’ll continue to advocate however and wherever I can for increased funding for the health of the world’s children—and for efficiencies that improve our current system. But with millions of lives on the line, we have to do more with less, now.”

A Critical Turning Point

Projections by the IHME show that if global health funding cuts of 20% persist, an additional 12 million children could die by 2045. A 30% permanent cut would bring that toll to 16 million.

Gates describes this moment as a turning point for global health, when the right choices can still save millions of lives.

“We could be the generation who had access to the most advanced science and innovation in human history—but couldn’t get the funding together to ensure it saved lives,” Gates writes. “By making the right priorities and commitments, and investing in high-impact solutions, I’m confident we can stop a significant reversal in child deaths and help ensure millions more children are alive in 2045.”

In the report, Gates identifies investments with the greatest potential to save millions of young lives. He calls for doubling down on the most effective interventions—primary health care, routine immunizations, better vaccines, and new uses of data—to stretch every dollar. For

example:

  • For less than $100 per person per year, strong primary health care systems can prevent up to 90% of child deaths.
  • Every $1 spent on vaccines returns $54 in economic and social benefits. Through Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, more than 1.2 billion children have received lifesaving vaccines since 2000.

The work of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is also evidence of what sustained investment can achieve. As one of the most effective engines in health, the Global Fund has saved 70 million lives and reduced deaths from malaria, TB, and HIV by more than 60% since 2002. Late last month, leaders pledged $11.34 billion to the Global Fund’s Eighth Replenishment, underscoring continued global commitment to fighting these diseases while laying bare the risks of stepping back.

According to Gates, investment in the development of next-generation innovations could end some of the deadliest threats to children, such as malaria and pneumonia, for good. Modeling in the report projects that sustained funding in these innovations could save millions of children by 2045.

  • Next-generation vaccines for respiratory syncytial virus and pneumonia could save 3.4 million children.
  • New malaria tools could save another 5.7 million children, while long-acting HIV prevention tools like lenacapavir could help drive infections and deaths toward zero in high-burden countries.

Local Leadership, Global Action

The report also features essays with firsthand perspectives from leaders, health workers, and researchers in Africa and Asia who are advancing solutions to sustain progress:

  • In Nigeria, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, governor of Gombe State, prioritized primary health and education amid a budget deficit. “You don’t need perfect conditions to make progress. You need clarity, and the courage to stick to it.”
  • In Kenya, community health worker Josephine Barasa continued volunteering in her community after losing her paid position, providing care and education to mothers and children. “They could take away the money, but they couldn’t take me away from my women… The support systems may have disappeared, but the need has not. And neither have I.”
  • In Uganda, entomologist Krystal Mwesiga Birungi is developing next-generation tools to combat malaria. “Ending malaria is not only possible, it is urgent,” she said. “We African researchers know this—and we are leading the way.”
  • In India, Dr. Naveen Thacker, a pediatrician, underscored the importance of affordable and accessible vaccines. “If we want to see more healthy children, affordability of vaccines is key.”

Gates implores governments, philanthropies, and citizens to act on the report’s findings by safeguarding or expanding funding, increasing philanthropic giving, and reminding leaders that every child deserves the chance to survive and thrive, no matter where they are born.

“We can’t stop at almost,” Gates writes. “If we do more with less now—and get back to a world where there are more resources to devote to children’s health—then in 20 years we’ll be able to tell a different kind of story: how we helped more kids survive childbirth—and childhood.”

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of the Gates Foundation.

About the Gates Foundation

Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives. In developing countries, we work with partners to create impactful solutions so that people can take charge of their futures and achieve their full potential. In the United States, we aim to ensure that everyone—especially those with the fewest resources—has access to the opportunities needed to succeed in school and life. Based in Seattle, Washington, the foundation is led by CEO Mark Suzman, under the direction of Bill Gates and our governing board.

About Goalkeepers

Goalkeepers is the foundation’s campaign to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (Global Goals). By sharing stories and data behind the Global Goals through an annual report, the Gates Foundation hopes to inspire a new generation of leaders—Goalkeepers who raise awareness of progress, hold their leaders accountable, and drive action to achieve the Global Goals.

About the Global Goals

On September 25, 2015, at the United Nations headquarters in New York, 193 world leaders committed to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (Global Goals). These are a series of ambitious objectives and targets to achieve three extraordinary things by 2030: end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and fix climate change.

Media Contact: media@gatesfoundation.org
Press Kit: https://www.gatesfoundation.org/ideas/media-center/gk-2025-press-kit
Report Link: https://www.gatesfoundation.org/goalkeepers/report/2025-report/

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AMA, Education, Health

Countries, experts agree on 10-year Africa health workforce agenda

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Geneva, Switzerland , 28 November 2025-/African Media Agency(AMA)/- African countries have reached consensus on the priority actions, commitments and milestones that will shape the Africa Health Workforce Agenda 2026–2035 in a major step towards transforming how the continent plans, trains and retains its health workforce. 

Member States, professional councils, universities, development partners and technical experts gathering in Pretoria from 24 to 26 November 2025 for consultation convened by the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa agreed on a unified direction for the forthcoming Agenda, which will be formally endorsed and launched by Member States in 2026. 

The shared priorities focus on strengthening governance and stewardship; modernizing and expanding health workforce education; improving employment and retention; scaling up investments through the Africa Health Workforce Investment Charter; and institutionalizing robust labour-market intelligence to guide planning and accountability.

“These outcomes reflect a shared continental vision for a workforce that is fit for purpose and positioned to deliver quality, people-centred care. The next decade must be transformational. If we do not act boldly and collectively, the gap between what our health systems need and the workers available will only widen,” said Dr Adelheid Onyango, Director of Health Systems and Services at WHO Regional Office for Africa.

Africa faces a projected shortage of 6.1 million health workers by 2030. While the region has tripled its workforce from 1.6 million in 2013 to 5.1 million in 2022, it continues to struggle with severe mismatches between training outputs and labour market needs; outdated and theory-heavy education models; chronic underinvestment in training institutions; unemployment among newly trained health workers; and significant migration and attrition.

Throughout the consultation, participants emphasized the urgency of comprehensive reforms to align education, employment, financing and service-delivery needs, building on key achievements reached this week. 

“Let this mark a turning point in how we plan, train, deploy and retain the health workers our continent needs. With unity and determination, Africa can build a health workforce capable of meeting both present and future demands,” said Dr Percy Mahlathi, Deputy Director-General, Hospital Services, Tertiary Health Services, and Health Workforce Development, National Department of Health, South Africa.

As part of the process to develop the new strategy, WHO convened Member States in July 2025 to update their national health workforce stock and related datasets and to reflect on the challenges and progress they have made since the adoption of the current strategy.

In July 2025, WHO convened a 17-member Expert Group to review the available evidence and identify priorities for the Africa Health Workforce Agenda 2026–2035.

The Africa Health Workforce Agenda 2035 is scheduled for a formal adoption and launch by Member States in 2026.

WHO called on all partners to sustain investment and political momentum to ensure the successful rollout of the agenda once it is endorsed and launched next year. It also urged governments, regional bodies, academia and development partners to sustain investment and political commitment to transform health workforce planning and education systems at scale.

“This consultation has been more than a technical exchange; it has solidified an Africa-wide commitment to reshape the future of health workforce development. The consensus achieved here provides clear direction for the agenda that countries will endorse and launch next year,” said Dr James Asamani, Team Lead for Health Workforce at WHO Regional Office for Africa.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf World Health Organisation

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