Across clinics in Comoros, Mauritius, Seychelles, Cabo Verde, Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and São Tomé and Príncipe—collectively known as Africa’s Small Island Developing States (SIDS)—access to essential medicines is beginning to change.
Rising diphtheria outbreaks across the WHO African Region are revealing serious gaps in routine immunization coverage. In response, countries are turning outbreak data into a tool for action, using evidence to target weaknesses, strengthen immunization systems and better protect vulnerable communities.
Qacha’s Nek- High in the mountains of Lesotho, where villages cling to steep slopes and winding paths cut through valleys, a remarkable health campaign unfolded. The measles-rubella (MR) vaccination drive reached even the most remote corners of Qacha’s Nek and Mokhotlong Districts, led by the determination of Village Health Workers (VHWs), local chiefs, and parents who refused to let geography stand in the way of their children’s health.
Freetown—For four months, Yeabu Sesay did what she had always done for others. She showed up for work at Makeni Regional Hospital, tended to patients through long shifts, and carried herself with the calm confidence expected of an experienced nurse. Few people knew that beneath her uniform, she was struggling with a deeply personal health problem that was slowly wearing her down.
Victoria—Seychelles has validated a comprehensive strategic plan 2025‒2030 designed to protect the health of its people by tackling tropical and vector-borne diseases. This plan lays out clear actions to prevent, control and eliminate diseases like leprosy, rabies, dengue and leptospirosis, while addressing new threats driven by climate change and increased movement of people and goods.
Dar Es Salaam—As the world continues to experience record-breaking temperatures, extreme heat is creeping into Tanzanian stadiums, indoor workplaces, construction sites and homes; posing a real threat to people's daily life.
The need to shield communities from extreme heat, air pollution, and harmful solar UV radiation grows more urgent as Tanzania prepares to host major sports events and festivals like AFCON 2027 and Sauti za Busara Annual Music Festival. Every match, every gathering, every shift at a worksite is now a frontline experience of climate change. Strengthening preparedness means saving lives before emergencies strike.
Gaborone, Botswana - Eight Southern African countries – Botswana, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe are joining forces to prevent, detect and respond to disease outbreaks before they spread to communities.
Eight Southern African countries – Botswana, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe are joining forces to Prevent, detect and respond to disease outbreaks before they spread to communities.
Gaborone—Eight Southern African countries – Botswana, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe are joining forces to Prevent, detect and respond to disease outbreaks before they spread to communities.
