WHO strengthens countries capacities to combat diet related Noncommunicable Diseases in Africa

Meeting on health diets

Kampala, Uganda – The World Health Organization’s Regional Office for Africa (WHO AFRO) has conducted a five-day capacity-building workshop in Uganda from 14-18 October 2024 to empower 40 representatives from government, civil society, and academia from Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Tanzania, and Uganda. The goal was to enhance efforts in implementing policies that promote healthier diets and physical activity to prevent obesity and diet-related noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

Integrating health into diplomacy to ensure the well-being of the population

WHO with students

On October 18, the World Health Organization (WHO) had the honor of receiving a group of 20 students from the Venâncio de Moura Diplomatic Academy, in an effort to strengthen Angola's presence at the United Nations and increase the visibility of the United Nations' actions in Angola. This visit is part of an initiative by the Diplomatic Academy to connect students with representatives of international organizations accredited in Angola and provide a deeper understanding of multilateralism.

WHO Supports Civil Society Organizations to Address Gender-Based Health Inequities through Monitoring of Inequalities

A group photo of representatives of non-state actors at capacity building and learning workshop on gender and health inequality monitoring in Kumasi,
Achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) requires addressing gender inequalities and intersecting key social determinants of health, which deeply drive poor population health outcomes. Bridging health inequality gaps, particularly those related to gender, is essential for ensuring that data is effectively used and that advocacy drives evidence-based actions. This approach is crucial in improving health outcomes for all, leaving no one behind in the pursuit of equitable healthcare.

Namibia Strengthens Child Malnutrition Measures

Anamary Tjituri, a community health worker in Otjerunda, Opuwo Health District

Windhoek –Vakahoka Matundu of Otjerunda village, faced a crisis when her two-year old daughter was diagnosed with acute malnutrition. A community health worker identified the issue and quickly referred her to Opuwo District Hospital for treatment. Reflecting on the journey, Vakahoka shares, “The community health worker has been very helpful, visiting us regularly to check up on my child's progress. My child is doing well now, and we are up to date with her immunizations.”

Tackling Neglected Tropical Diseases: Mapping T. solium Taeniasis in Northern Namibia

 Field team members during the NTD mapping survey

During July and August this year, the Ministry of Health, and Social Services (MoHSS) with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a community based cross-sectional Taenia Solium taeniasis mapping survey. The survey was funded by GIZ through the Expanded Special Project for the Elimination of Neglected Tropical Disease (ESPEN). The mapping survey was conducted in five northern regions namely Kavango West, Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana and Oshikoto. The identified regions share common risk factors for T.

Zimbabwe launches Health Workforce Strategy, signs Health Workforce Compact

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Harare – Following cabinet’s approval, the Government of Zimbabwe has launched the Health Workforce Strategy (2023-2030) to transform the country’s human resources for health capacity in ensuring the highest quality of life for all Zimbabweans by 2030. This comprehensive strategy addresses critical gaps in the health workforce and is set to be the foundation for a sustainable healthcare system.

Introduction to Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCoD) using the Eleventh Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD 11) in South Sudan

Health stakeholders pose for a group photo after the opening session of the raining of trainers on the Medical Certification of Cause of Death.

South Sudan has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative in bolstering its mortality surveillance system by enhancing the capacities of health workers through training. The aim is to improve the collection of accurate disease data, enhance reporting and completeness, and streamline health services, ultimately informing health outcomes.

New joint health system review highlights opportunities for strengthening health care services for refugees and migrant communities in Uganda.

Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, The Uganda Minister of Health, launching the report on Refugees migrants and host communities in Uganda.

Uganda is the largest refugee-hosting country in Africa and the fifth largest in the world. Over the decades, Uganda has hosted refugees from countries including South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Somalia, Sudan, Burundi, and Rwanda. As of 31st August 2024, there were 1,7400 000 refugees in Uganda primarily situated within refugee settlements in northern and southwestern Uganda and Kampala City.