COVID-19 Stories Archives - African Leadership Magazine https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/category/covid-19/ Most Reliable Source for Afro-centric News Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:30:26 +0000 en hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.6 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cropped-289x96-32x32.jpg COVID-19 Stories Archives - African Leadership Magazine https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/category/covid-19/ 32 32 How COVID-19 Reshaped Intra-African Economic Dynamics https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/how-covid-19-reshaped-intra-african-economic-dynamics/ Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:30:26 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=63910 The year 2020 was pivotal as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, and Africa was not exempt from its effects. Although the impact on the continent was arguably less.

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The year 2020 was pivotal as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, and Africa was not exempt from its effects. Although the impact on the continent was arguably less severe than in other parts of the world, the pandemic influenced Africa in unique ways due to its diverse economies and varying levels of development. It prompted a shift in trade patterns, investment, and economic cooperation within the continent.

 

COVID-19 directly disrupted Africa’s trade and supply chains, as countries imposed lockdowns and travel restrictions. These measures significantly affected cross-border trade, creating unprecedented challenges. According to the African Union (AU), trade volumes among member states experienced notable declines, exacerbated by global supply chain disruptions.

 

During the height of the pandemic, the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) warned that Africa’s oil-exporting nations were losing up to USD 65 billion in revenues. The continent reportedly lost over 51 per cent of its revenue due to the pandemic. In 2021, Femi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), stated that Africa would need at least USD 432 billion to address the pandemic’s impact on its economies and people.

 

The pandemic severely disrupted trade and supply chains, impeding the movement of goods across borders and leading to shortages of essential items such as medical supplies and food. This highlighted the continent’s heavy reliance on imported goods and the need to reduce dependency on non-African sources for critical supplies. Consequently, several initiatives emerged to shape the continent’s recovery post-pandemic.

 

One such initiative was the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which offered a glimmer of hope in the aftermath of the pandemic. The AfCFTA aimed to create a single market for goods and services across Africa, boosting intra-African trade and economic growth.

 

COVID-19 also accelerated innovations in digital technology across Africa. Lockdowns and social distancing measures compelled businesses, entrepreneurs, and consumers to turn to online platforms for trade, services, and communication. This led to the growth of e-commerce, digital payments, and remote work as alternative solutions for many.

 

This digital transformation impacted intra-African economic dynamics, creating opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and facilitating new avenues for cross-border trade. It also fostered greater regional collaboration in technology and innovation, potentially enhancing Africa’s digital economic integration.

 

READ ALSO: Trump vs. Harris—Africa Observes

During the pandemic, foreign direct investment (FDI) into the continent declined significantly as global economic communities and investors reassessed their strategies. This shift prompted increased intra-African investments, as African investors and companies sought opportunities within the continent, particularly in sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy, and infrastructure.

 

The COVID-19 pandemic arguably strengthened regional cooperation and resilience within Africa, fostering collaborations in health responses and the sharing of resources and information to combat the virus. The African Union and regional bodies like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) played crucial roles in facilitating economic recovery, addressing the fallout, and planning for a post-pandemic future.

 

Reflecting on the challenges Africa faced during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, it is evident that greater economic integration, digital transformation, and regional cooperation are essential. The AfCFTA, digital advancements, and renewed focus on regional investment are key to building a more interconnected and resilient African economy.

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Diaspora Health Initiatives: African and Afro-Caribbean Collaborations https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/diaspora-health-initiatives-african-and-afro-caribbean-collaborations/ Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:06:32 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=63115 Collaborations between the Afro-Caribbean and African regions in healthcare have become increasingly vital, driven by a shared aim to improve access to quality healthcare. These initiatives are being advanced by.

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Collaborations between the Afro-Caribbean and African regions in healthcare have become increasingly vital, driven by a shared aim to improve access to quality healthcare. These initiatives are being advanced by the expertise of the African diaspora, playing a crucial role in bridging gaps and strengthening health systems in their home countries.

 

The Impact of HeDPAC

One of the most significant collaborations is the Health Development Partnership for Africa and the Caribbean (HeDPAC), launched in 2023. Spearheaded by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley of Barbados and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, the initiative focuses on key areas such as maternal and child health, climate-resilient healthcare, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

 

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Africa accounted for only 1% of global health expenditure in 2021, despite bearing 24% of the global disease burden. Through HeDPAC, investments are projected to increase healthcare workforce training by 20% in both regions, particularly aimed at reducing maternal mortality rates, which remain a critical challenge in both Africa and the Caribbean.

 

HeDPAC has been allocated $100 million over the next decade to concentrate on primary healthcare, pharmaceutical technology transfer, and workforce training in both regions. This substantial investment aims to enhance healthcare outcomes, with a special focus on reducing maternal mortality, which remains alarmingly high in sub-Saharan Africa, at 534 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to a global average of 211 per 100,000.

 

By addressing these urgent healthcare needs, HeDPAC is poised to make a lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities. With a commitment to sustainable development and partnership-building, it aims to empower healthcare workers, strengthen healthcare systems, and promote access to quality healthcare for all.

 

The African Diaspora Health Initiative (AfDHI)

The African Diaspora Health Initiative (AfDHI) is another leading programme aimed at mobilising African healthcare professionals abroad to support healthcare systems across Africa. AfDHI primarily focuses on rural and underserved communities, tackling critical healthcare shortages that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Key Achievements and Investments:

  • AfDHI has invested $50 million in healthcare projects across 15 African countries, with an emphasis on constructing clinics in rural areas.
  • In 2022, its telemedicine programme reached 45,000 patients, delivering healthcare to remote regions with limited hospital access.
  • More than 300 healthcare professionals from the diaspora have volunteered in underserved communities, contributing to improvements in maternal health, childcare, and disease control.

Major Initiatives Led by the African Diaspora

The Safe Motherhood Project

Launched by African healthcare professionals in the diaspora, the Safe Motherhood Project focuses on maternal and neonatal health in countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana. Since its inception in 2019, the project has raised over $20 million for maternal health interventions and trained more than 1,500 midwives across Africa.

The African Diaspora Health Network (ADHN)

The African Diaspora Health Network (ADHN) brings together African medical professionals abroad to enhance healthcare services in Africa. Between 2020 and 2023, ADHN provided $10 million worth of medical equipment to hospitals across the continent. Additionally, it has established community health centres in rural areas of Ghana, Uganda, and Sierra Leone, increasing access to primary healthcare for underserved communities. The organisation also trains over 1,000 healthcare workers annually, in collaboration with local medical institutions and governments.

 

Diaspora Volunteer Medical Corps (DVMC)

The DVMC mobilises diaspora doctors and nurses to spend two to four weeks each year working in underfunded hospitals across Africa. Since 2020, 2,000 medical professionals have been deployed to regions in need, serving approximately 100,000 patients. With over $15 million in donations, the initiative has provided essential medical supplies and services to these communities.

 

Financial and Social Impact

The contributions of the African diaspora extend beyond volunteerism. Their remittances and investments play a crucial role in financing healthcare systems. According to the World Bank, African diaspora remittances reached $49 billion in 2021, a portion of which was directed towards health infrastructure. For example, Nigeria received an estimated $20.9 billion, with 5% allocated to healthcare and education. Other major recipients include Ghana, Kenya, and Ethiopia, all of which have benefited from improved hospital infrastructure and healthcare technology through diaspora investments.

 

Global health organisations such as the WHO, UNICEF, and the Global Fund have acknowledged the growing influence of these partnerships, aligning their resources with diaspora-led initiatives to further support healthcare improvements.

 

READ ALSO: Mpox on the Move: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

Future Prospects

Despite the progress made, challenges remain, including funding gaps, inadequate infrastructure, and the ongoing issue of brain drain. However, the rise of Afro-Caribbean and African collaborations, such as HeDPAC, offers hope. By adopting South-South cooperation models, both regions can harness their collective strengths to drive meaningful change in global health.

 

In the coming decade, it will be crucial to maintain momentum by securing increased financial commitments from international health bodies and fostering stronger ties between governments, diaspora groups, and non-governmental organisations. By focusing on areas such as maternal health, disease control, and healthcare infrastructure, these collaborative efforts have the potential to create a lasting impact on global health outcomes.

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Strengthening Early Warning Systems in Africa: Lessons from COVID-19 and Ebola https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/strengthening-early-warning-systems-in-africa-lessons-from-covid-19-and-ebola/ Tue, 06 Aug 2024 14:24:26 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=62460 Africa has witnessed several disease outbreaks, making it crucial to develop effective early warning systems. Event-based surveillance (EBS) is a key component of these systems, enabling timely detection and response.

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Africa has witnessed several disease outbreaks, making it crucial to develop effective early warning systems. Event-based surveillance (EBS) is a key component of these systems, enabling timely detection and response to emerging health threats. However, existing data systems are inadequate to support EBS.

 

Challenges and Failures

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities in Africa’s early warning systems. In the initial phases, delays in reporting and limited testing capabilities resulted in inaccurate assessments of the virus’s spread.

 

The African Union’s Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reported that many countries encountered difficulties with testing and data collection, which impeded effective responses. By June 2020, only 5.3 million tests had been conducted across the continent, compared to over 60 million in Europe, highlighting the scale of the challenge.

 

The lack of timely reporting was compounded by underreporting, with many African countries failing to capture the true extent of the outbreak. A study in The Lancet Global Health found that reported case numbers and death rates were significantly lower than actual figures due to inadequate data collection infrastructure.

 

The 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa was a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of inadequate surveillance and response mechanisms. The lack of effective early warning systems allowed the virus to spread rapidly, resulting in over 28,000 reported cases and 11,000 deaths as reported by the World Health Organisation.

 

Ongoing Initiatives and Improvement

Established in 2016 by the 26th Ordinary Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the Africa CDC was tasked with enhancing disease surveillance and response across the continent. Since its inception, the organisation has made significant progress, including the development of a network of 20 regional collaboration centres to improve early warning capabilities.

 

In 2020, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention addressed existing gaps by developing an event management system (EMS) built on the district health information software (DHIS2), a free and open-source platform that can handle data capture, analysis, and reporting. This innovative solution enables seamless monitoring and reporting of events, ultimately improving public health response in Africa.

 

As of December 2022, the Emergency Management System (EMS) had recorded a total of 416 events, with a significant increase in 2022 compared to previous years. The majority of these events (69%) directly impacted humans, with a moderate to high risk level.

 

The EMS detected and verified a high percentage of signals, with 95% of signals detected in 2020, 86% in 2021, and 90% in 2022 being confirmed as actual events.

 

The mHero Platform was developed in response to the Ebola outbreak, with the goal of improving real-time communication between health workers and authorities. Since its inception, the platform has been adapted for use in responding to other health crises, including COVID-19.

 

The African Union’s Digital Health Strategy, launched in 2021, aims to leverage digital technologies to enhance health surveillance. This includes the development and integration of mobile health apps, electronic health records, and other digital tools to improve the effectiveness of disease surveillance and response efforts.

 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has played a key role in enhancing laboratory capacity in Africa by establishing 16 new reference laboratories. This initiative has significantly increased the region’s testing capacity, enabling healthcare professionals to quickly and accurately diagnose and respond to emerging pathogens.

 

READ ALSO: Optimizing Egypt’s Food Value Chain with Cutting-Edge Technology

The improved surveillance systems in Africa have enabled a faster rollout of COVID-19 vaccines, with over 450 million doses administered by the end of 2021. This achievement is a testament to the effectiveness of enhanced early warning systems in facilitating timely vaccine distribution.

 

Despite these advancements, significant challenges persist, including limited funding and inadequate infrastructure. The World Health Organisation estimates that $10 billion is needed annually to strengthen health systems and early warning capabilities in Africa, highlighting the need for continued investment and support to address these ongoing challenges.

 

Dr. John Nkengasong, former Director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), stated: To ensure a sustainable and effective response to public health crises, it is essential that we integrate early warning systems with our existing health infrastructure. Strengthening these systems and fostering collaborations between governments, international organisations, and the private sector will enhance our ability to respond swiftly and effectively. This integrated approach is crucial for improving health outcomes and ultimately saving lives across Africa.”

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How Prepared is Nigeria against the Next COVID? https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/how-prepared-is-nigeria-against-the-next-covid/ Mon, 06 May 2024 11:47:45 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=60887 Gazing back from a future standpoint, the inquiry into Nigeria’s readiness for the “next COVID” carries substantial weight. The COVID-19 pandemic in the early 21st century acted as a poignant.

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Gazing back from a future standpoint, the inquiry into Nigeria’s readiness for the “next COVID” carries substantial weight. The COVID-19 pandemic in the early 21st century acted as a poignant reminder of societies’ susceptibility to emerging infectious diseases. This article delves into Nigeria’s state of readiness for forthcoming pandemics, leveraging historical archives, progress achieved since the COVID-19 era, and potential lingering challenges. Nigeria’s preparedness for the subsequent pandemic is contingent upon its capacity to glean insights from past encounters.

Healthcare Infrastructure and Capacity

One of the most critical factors in Nigeria’s preparedness against future pandemics is the strength of its healthcare infrastructure and capacity. The country faces significant challenges in this regard, including a shortage of healthcare facilities, inadequately equipped hospitals, and limited access to essential medical supplies and personnel, particularly in rural areas. While efforts have been made to expand healthcare infrastructure and improve access to healthcare services, significant gaps persist, leaving millions of Nigerians vulnerable to the impact of infectious diseases.

 

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria ramped up efforts to enhance its healthcare infrastructure and capacity. Temporary treatment centers were established, diagnostic testing capacity was expanded, and healthcare workers received training in infection prevention and control measures. Additionally, the government implemented measures to strengthen the primary healthcare system, improve disease surveillance and response mechanisms, and enhance coordination between various stakeholders in the healthcare sector.

 

However, sustaining these gains and further strengthening healthcare infrastructure and capacity will require continued investment, innovation, and collaboration. The government must prioritize healthcare as a fundamental human right and allocate adequate resources to ensure universal access to quality healthcare services for all Nigerians, regardless of their socio-economic status or geographical location.

 

Disease Surveillance and Response

Effective disease surveillance and response mechanisms are essential for early detection, containment, and mitigation of infectious disease outbreaks. In Nigeria, the capacity for disease surveillance and response has improved in recent years, thanks in part to investments in public health infrastructure and the establishment of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). The NCDC plays a central role in coordinating disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and response activities across the country.

 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the NCDC led the national response effort, conducting widespread testing, contact tracing, and isolation of confirmed cases. The agency also provided timely updates and guidance to the public, healthcare workers, and policymakers, helping to raise awareness about the virus and mitigate its spread. Additionally, the NCDC collaborated with international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), to leverage technical expertise and resources in the fight against COVID-19.

 

While Nigeria’s disease surveillance and response capabilities have improved, there are areas for enhancement, including the need for greater investment in laboratory infrastructure, expansion of diagnostic testing capacity, and strengthening of health information systems. Moreover, efforts to build local capacity for research and development of vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics will be critical for future pandemic preparedness.

 

Vaccination and Immunization

Vaccination is a cornerstone of public health and a critical tool for preventing the spread of infectious diseases. In the case of COVID-19, vaccines have played a pivotal role in controlling the pandemic and reducing the burden on healthcare systems. In Nigeria, efforts to vaccinate the population against COVID-19 have been underway since the arrival of the first doses of vaccine in early 2021. The government, in collaboration with partners such as the COVAX initiative, has rolled out vaccination campaigns targeting priority groups, including healthcare workers, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

 

Despite progress in vaccine rollout, Nigeria faces challenges related to vaccine hesitancy, supply chain logistics, and equitable distribution of vaccines. Disinformation and mistrust of vaccines have fueled hesitancy among some segments of the population, posing a barrier to achieving high vaccination coverage. Additionally, logistical challenges, including cold chain storage requirements and transportation infrastructure limitations, have hindered the efficient distribution of vaccines to remote and underserved areas.

 

To overcome these challenges and ensure widespread vaccination coverage, Nigeria must adopt a multi-faceted approach that addresses barriers to vaccine acceptance, strengthens vaccine delivery systems, and enhances community engagement and trust in immunization programs. Investing in public education campaigns, leveraging community influencers and religious leaders, and strengthening collaboration between the government, civil society, and the private sector will be essential for overcoming vaccine hesitancy and achieving herd immunity against COVID-19 and future pandemics.

 

Socio-Economic Impacts and Vulnerabilities

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated socio-economic disparities and vulnerabilities in Nigeria, exposing millions of people to poverty, food insecurity, and other adverse outcomes. The lockdown measures implemented to contain the spread of the virus had a profound impact on livelihoods, particularly for informal workers and those employed in the informal sector. School closures disrupted education for millions of children, exacerbating learning inequalities and widening the gap between the rich and the poor.

 

As Nigeria prepares for the next COVID, addressing socio-economic vulnerabilities and building resilience against future shocks must be a priority. This entails strengthening social protection systems, expanding access to quality education and healthcare, and promoting inclusive economic growth that benefits all segments of society. Investing in job creation, skills development, and entrepreneurship opportunities can empower individuals and communities to withstand economic downturns and build a more prosperous future.

 

Furthermore, addressing underlying determinants of health, such as poverty, inequality, and inadequate access to basic services, is essential for improving population health outcomes and reducing vulnerability to infectious diseases. By adopting a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of socio-economic disparities and vulnerabilities, Nigeria can build a more resilient and equitable society that is better prepared to confront future health crises.

 

Nigeria has made significant strides in enhancing its preparedness against future pandemics, including the next COVID. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, disease surveillance and response, vaccination and immunization, and socio-economic development have laid the foundation for a more resilient and responsive health system. However, significant challenges remain, including the need to address healthcare infrastructure deficiencies, strengthen disease surveillance and response capabilities, overcome vaccine hesitancy, and address socio-economic vulnerabilities.

 

As Nigeria steers the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic and prepares for future health crises, it is essential to adopt a multi-sectoral approach that engages stakeholders from government, civil society, the private sector, and communities. By working together collaboratively and leveraging collective expertise and resources, Nigeria can build a stronger, more resilient health system that protects the health and well-being of all its citizens, now and in the future.

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COVID-19 RECORD HAS PLUMMETED IN AFRICA SAYS NIGERIAN DISEASE CONTROL CENTER. https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/covid-19-record-has-plummeted-in-africa-says-nigerian-disease-control-center/ Thu, 19 Jan 2023 15:28:53 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=55095 Despite the increasing cases of COVID -19 in some parts of Asia, Europe, and America, the death record of the dreaded virus has continued to fall in Africa according to.

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Despite the increasing cases of COVID -19 in some parts of Asia, Europe, and America, the death record of the dreaded virus has continued to fall in Africa according to the Nigerian Center for Disease Control, NCDC.

The NCDC Director General Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa disclosed this at a meeting with the Nigerian minister of health, Dr. Ehanire Osagie, on COVID-19 response and development in the health sector in Abuja, stating that the African region reports 73% and 32% of new CIVID-19 cases and deaths compared to recent records.
Adetifa explained that in the Americas and Western Pacific (including China), there has been a 74% and 29% increase in cases and a 49% and 35% increase in deaths respectively.
“The increase in these countries in part is a component of the winter exacerbation of respiratory illness”.

“The resurgence of COVID-19 in China following the relaxation of the country’s zero-COVID policy and the unsurprising increase in cases, hospitalisation and deaths also attracts concerns about the possible emergence of new variants of concern with heave population transmission of SARS-CoV-2”

“The variants circulating in China are predominantly BA.5.2 and Bf.7 which made up 90% of all isolates. These variants have been circulating in other parts of the world including Nigeria (156) since 2022” he said.
Adetifa added that an Omicron subvariant, XBB.1.5, that was originally detected in New York in October 2022 is on the increase in US and Europe and has now been identified in more than 25 countries.
“The XBB.1.5 is the most transmissible form of omicron but it is not clear if it is more virulent than its ancestor”.

“In Nigeria, we have had 5,708,974 samples tested, 266,463 confirmed cases, 259,850 discharged cases and unfortunately 3,155 deaths have been recorded in 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

“As confirmed by our data, COVID-19 has and continues to follow a different epidemiological course in Nigeria and most of Africa, with lesser cases, admissions, and deaths from the Omicron sub-lineages”.
He, therefore, reiterated that the NCDC-led COVID-19 EOC is closely monitoring the rise in the new Omicron sub-lineages XBB.1.5 in the UK and US, the current resurgence COVID-19 trends in China, and other countries with a high volume of traffic to and from Nigeria.

“It is important to note that regardless of COVID-19 variants in different parts of the world, severe disease, admissions, and deaths disproportionately affect the unvaccinated population. Adding that Nigerians must get vaccinated to prevent the spread of the virus, hospitalization, and death.

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is now dominating the lives of several people, and its history is constantly being rewritten.
The latest coronavirus known as COVID-19 began quietly and spread very rapidly. On 31 December 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) was formally notified about a cluster of cases of pneumonia in Wuhan City, home to 11 million people and the cultural and economic hub of central China. By 5 January, 59 cases were known and none had been fatal. Ten days later, WHO was aware of 282 confirmed cases, of which four were in Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. There had been six deaths in Wuhan, 51 people were severely ill and 12 were in critical condition. The virus responsible was isolated on 7 January and its genome was shared on 12 January. The cause of the severe acute respiratory syndrome that became known as COVID-19 was a novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. The rest is history, albeit a history that is constantly being rewritten: as of 12 May, 82,591 new cases of COVID-19 worldwide were being confirmed daily and the death rate was over 4200 per day.

COVID-19 presents an enormous global challenge that has required levels of intervention on a scale that is unprecedented. In one sense, it is a new threat: SARS-CoV-2 emerged as a novel virus to which humans had no immunity, it spreads exceptionally quickly, carries a high mortality, and can overwhelm the capacity of health services to treat the most seriously ill. But it is not incomparable: similarities with other coronaviruses and recent epidemics mean that infection control measures are well-rehearsed and existing technologies can be deployed to speed the development of new vaccines and treatments.

Individuals have been advised to continue to adhere to the recommended non-pharmaceutical intervention (NPIs) such as the use of facemasks, good hand and respiratory hygiene, and avoidance of crowded spaces. Vaccination and booster jabs have also been advocated for all.

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COVID-19; Over 76 million Nigerians Vaccinated Says Health Minister https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/covid-19-over-76-million-nigerians-vaccinated-says-health-minister/ Wed, 11 Jan 2023 15:11:57 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=54987 King Richard   Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, has said that over seventy-six million Nigerians have been vaccinated against the dreaded COVID-19 virus adding that there are no.

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King Richard
 
Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, has said that over seventy-six million Nigerians have been vaccinated against the dreaded COVID-19 virus adding that there are no increased reported cases of the virus in the country. He stated this in response to the increasing COVID-19 cases being experienced in China and other countries.
The minister who spoke with African Leadership Magazine and others at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, recently said the sub-lineages partly responsible for the current increase in COVID-19 cases in other countries, such as XBB.1.5 and BF.7 COVID-19 variants were yet to be detected in the country base on reports gotten in November 2022.
The health administrator also said that, based on confirmed data, COVID-19 has continued to follow a different epidemiological course in Nigeria and most of Africa, with fewer cases, admissions, and deaths from the Omicron sub-lineages.
While calling on Nigerians to complete their vaccine doses and also go for booster jabs because it has been proven to strengthen immunity,
 
 He added that The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) led COVID-19 emergency operation unit was closely monitoring the rise in the new Omicron sub-lineages XBB.1.5 in the UK and US, as well as the current resurgence of COVID-19 trends in China and other countries with a high volume of traffic to and from Nigeria.
 
Ehanire said administering of booster shots was now being encouraged by the Federal Government of Nigeria because of the affirmation by The World Health Organization that those with vaccine booster shots were less likely to fall sick or die from COVID-19 infection. 
 
While providing updates of COVID-19 infections and treatment, The Nigeria’s Health Minister said: “In Nigeria, we have had 5,708,974 samples tested, 266,463 confirmed cases, 259,850 discharged cases and unfortunately 3,155 deaths have been recorded in 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).”
“We are working to complete testing and analysis for December 2022. Since the detection of the Omicron variant in December 2021, its sub-lineages (BQ.1/BQ.1.1) have been dominant in Nigeria also, as seen in other parts of the world.
 
“It is important to note that regardless of COVID-19 variants in different parts of the world, severe disease, admissions, and deaths disproportionately affect the unvaccinated and those with established risk factors,” he said.
The minister asserted that the most important action for Nigerians to take was to get vaccinated against COVID-19, as the vaccine remains the most important intervention for preventing severe disease, hospitalisation, and death.
 
Furthermore,  he said though the COVID-19 protocols and restrictions have eased, people at high risk for severe COVID-19 were advised to continue to adhere to the recommended non-pharmaceutical intervention (NPIs) such as the use of facemasks, good hand and respiratory hygiene and avoidance of crowded spaces.
Ehanire later stated that due to the refusal of most inbound passengers to use the online platform to declare their vaccination status, a decision to enforce regulations at the international airports would be handled more strictly.
 
From the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) records, as of Monday, January 9, 2023, 76,161,470 eligible persons have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccines in Nigeria, representing 65.7 per cent of Nigeria’s eligible population.
 
 64,094,498 persons have been fully vaccinated, representing 55.3 per cent of the nation’s eligible population, and 9,892,018 have received booster doses. 
The World Health Organization and several renowned medical experts worldwide have said that in contending against COVID-19, vaccination remains an important intervention for preventing severe disease, hospitalisation, and death.
 

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Liberian House Of Representatives, Ida Approves U.S.$6.7 Million For Covid Emergency Preparation And Response https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/liberian-house-of-representatives-ida-approves-u-s-6-7-million-for-covid-emergency-preparation-and-response/ Mon, 28 Nov 2022 14:50:48 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=54781 The House of Representatives has approved the second additional financing for Liberia’s COVID-19 Emergency Preparation and Response Project between the Republic of Liberia and the International Development Association (IDA) with.

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The House of Representatives has approved the second additional financing for Liberia’s COVID-19 Emergency Preparation and Response Project between the Republic of Liberia and the International Development Association (IDA) with the objective of preparing and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic in Liberia.

This was disclosed after the Plenary took the decision following a report from the Joint Committee on Ways, Means, Finance & Development Planning, and Judiciary respectively, on the Financing Agreement signed on 4 July 2022.

Under the agreement, the IDA agreed to extend to the Republic of Liberia a Grant and a Credit deemed as Concessional Financing in the following amounts: 4,600,000.00 million (Grant Special Drawing Rights) and 2,100,000.00 million (Credit Special Drawing Rights), respectively.

The joint committee informed the plenary that the maximum commitment charge rate is half of one per cent per annum (Withdrawn Financing Rate) and a service charge of 3/4% of one per cent (Withdrawn Credit balance) with a payment date beginning February 15 and August 15 in each year.

The joint committee said Liberia’s preparedness, readiness, and response to new cases of COVID-19 is needful, especially under a second additional financing project to enable the country’s health system to react effectively to outbreaks of future pandemics.

The august body added that the ratification of the Financing Agreement dubbed Liberia COVID-19 Emergency Preparedness and Response Project Second Additional Financing in keeping with its objective would strengthen the framework of the Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD).

Meanwhile, the instrument is expected to be transmitted to the Liberian Senate for concurrence following a motion by Nimba County Representative, Joseph Somwarbi.

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U.S. Govt Delegation Visits Liberia to Learn First-hand Lessons from COVID-19 Fight https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/u-s-govt-delegation-visits-liberia-to-learn-first-hand-lessons-from-covid-19-fight/ Wed, 09 Nov 2022 14:01:42 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=54274 After being included as one of the first three African countries to achieve the World Health Organization (WHO) goal of vaccinating 70% of its population against COVID-19, the United States.

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After being included as one of the first three African countries to achieve the World Health Organization (WHO) goal of vaccinating 70% of its population against COVID-19, the United States government delegation has arrived in Monrovia to learn first-hand lessons about Liberia’s achievements in the fight against the deadly disease.

This was disclosed via a Press Release from the Peace Corps and the National Institutes of Health in Monrovia.

The delegation was led by Beth Tritter, Executive Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) COVID-19 Response Team and Dr David Fitter, Acting Lead for the Global COVID-19 Vaccination Initiative of the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); Chris Runyan, Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator, USAID Africa Bureau; and Robert Pulwer, Country Support/Rapid Response Senior Advisor, USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance.

The delegation was formally welcomed by officials at the U.S. Embassy, including Deputy Chief of Mission Joel Maybury, USAID Liberia Mission Director Jim Wright, and the CDC Country Director for Liberia, Dr Rachel Idowu. They also met with representatives of the Peace Corps and the National Institutes of Health in Monrovia.

They later visited the General Services Agency (GSA), one of the largest COVID-19 vaccination sites in the country, where they met with the GSA Director General, Madam Mary Broh. Broh, who is also the National Coordinator for Liberia’s COVID-19 Response, thanked USAID, CDC, and other donors for supporting Liberia’s COVID response efforts.

She added that about 170,000 people have been vaccinated at the GSA, noting that lessons learned from the fight against the 2014-2016 Ebola epidemic, including the use of local voices in prevention and treatment messaging, have been useful in combating COVID-19.

The delegation also met with the Montserrado County Health Team in Monrovia. The head of Liberia’s Immunization Program Dr Adolphus Clarke briefed them on successful COVID-19 interventions in Montserrado, including community-based awareness campaigns to combat vaccine hesitancy. Executive Director Tritter said she and other members of her delegation were delighted to be in Liberia to learn for themselves how the country with the support of development partners mounted a strong campaign against COVID-19.

She congratulated Liberia for being a leader in achieving the WHO target of vaccinating 70% of its population against COVID-19.

It is expected that further activities will see Tritter and other members of the delegation join Health Minister Wilhelmina Jallah, representatives of the World Health Organization, and other donor partners to open a new oxygen production plant in Bomi.

The plant, established with support from USAID, will provide life-saving medical oxygen for people in the western region of Liberia. It is the second oxygen production plant established with USAID support in Liberia. On October 27, President George Weah opened an oxygen plant on Bushrod Island in Monrovia, built with funding from the German, Canadian and U.S. governments. That plant will serve the people of Montserrado and Margibi Counties.

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Liberia: Weah Commissions First Medical Oxygen Plant https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/liberia-weah-commissions-first-medical-oxygen-plant/ Thu, 27 Oct 2022 12:44:52 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=53969 President George Manneh Weah has commissioned the first-ever Medical Oxygen Plant to build a more robust, responsive, and resilient health sector in Liberia. In its 175 years of existence, Liberia.

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President George Manneh Weah has commissioned the first-ever Medical Oxygen Plant to build a more robust, responsive, and resilient health sector in Liberia.

In its 175 years of existence, Liberia is celebrating the inauguration of the first-ever state-of-the-art Medical PSA Oxygen Plant with the capacity to produce 100 cylinders (~50Nm3/hour) of medical oxygen per day at 93+3% purity.

The Oxygen Plant located at Star Base on Bushrod Island is the largest in the country and is expected to serve an estimated population of two million inhabitants in Montserrado and Margibi Counties.

Weah, disclosed this while Commissioning the Plant in Liberia.

In his words, “The establishment of the Oxygen Plant Is an excellent mark of good and realistic collaboration between the Government of Liberia with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other strategic partners.

“I thank the Governments of the United States through USAID along with the Federal Republic of Germany, and Canada for providing financial support for the establishment of the Plant.

“I extol Liberia’s partners for collaborating with his government in supporting initiatives geared towards improving healthcare delivery to the people of Liberia.

“We place immense value on this timely support to protect the country against future emerging and re-emerging public health threats.”

The President also expressed profound appreciation to the Governments of the three countries for supporting Liberia in the fight against COVID-19 and strengthening our health system

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Tanzania: Young Africans, UNICEF Sign contract to Create COVID-19, Ebola Awareness https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/tanzania-young-africans-unicef-sign-contract-to-create-covid-19-ebola-awareness/ Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:51:14 +0000 https://www.africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/?p=53929 Young Africans Club has sealed a six-month contract with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to promote awareness of COVID-19 vaccination and education on Ebola disease. The Club’s President, Hersi.

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Young Africans Club has sealed a six-month contract with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to promote awareness of COVID-19 vaccination and education on Ebola disease.

The Club’s President, Hersi Said disclosed this after sealing the deal in Dar es Salaam.
He said, “This is another milestone for us to partner with a renowned international humanitarian organization.

“We are known as a citizens’ team and our philosophy is to be part and parcel of problem-solving of different challenges facing community members.”

On her part, UNICEF Representative Fatimata Baladi said, “This partnership will help 25 million fans in the country to get reliable information about Covid-19 and Ebola virus to protect themselves.”

Also, the club’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Andre Mtine hailed the move saying it is historical for the club and will cooperate well to fulfil its objectives.

“As a club, it is our responsibility to engage in activities that have a direct impact on the lives of people.”

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