Author: AR Managing Editor

Zion Tech Hub Develops AI-Powered Cardiovascular Disease Risk Model to Transform Healthcare in Africa

Illustrative Image: Zion Tech Hub Develops AI-Powered Cardiovascular Disease Risk Model to Transform Healthcare in Africa
Image Source & Credit: World Economic Forum
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In a decisive step toward addressing Africa’s growing cardiovascular health crisis, Zion Tech Hub—one of Sub-Saharan Africa’s leading innovation centers—has announced the launch of a groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) initiative. The project aims to develop a user-friendly AI-powered model capable of accurately assessing an individual’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), marking a major shift toward health-focused technological innovation in a continent where most tech solutions have historically served commerce and finance.

Over the past decade, Africa’s technology ecosystem has undergone a dramatic transformation, growing from fewer than a dozen active innovation hubs in 2010 to over 1,000 thriving centers today. Despite this impressive expansion, healthcare applications—especially in preventive medicine—have received far less attention compared to fintech and e-commerce. This is a significant gap, considering the continent’s rising burden of non-communicable diseases, particularly CVD, which the World Health Organization (WHO) reports accounts for approximately 11% of all deaths in Nigeria. This figure is projected to increase as urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary changes take hold.

A New Frontier in African Health Innovation

Zion Tech Hub, headquartered in Nigeria, has built a reputation for championing digital advancement with a mission that now goes beyond profit-driven solutions. Founder Godsent Ndoma underscores this paradigm shift:

“While tech hubs in Africa have predominantly served finance and commerce, we believe it’s time to harness AI to address our most urgent health challenges—starting with heart disease.”

The upcoming AI model will be designed to analyze key risk factors—such as age, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, family history, lifestyle habits, and regional epidemiological data—to predict an individual’s likelihood of developing CVD. Importantly, the tool will be optimized for both high-tech urban hospitals and low-resource rural clinics, ensuring accessibility even in remote areas where diagnostic infrastructure is limited.

Global Expertise with Local Insight

To bring this ambitious vision to life, Zion Tech Hub has assembled a team of leading experts from both Africa and the international research community. Among them is Dr. Basil Duwa from the Operational Research Center in Healthcare, Near East University, whose work in predictive machine learning models for cardiovascular health is internationally recognized. His prior research, Implementation of Artificial Intelligence Models for Enhanced Cardiovascular Disease Prediction and Risk Assessments, emphasizes early diagnosis and proactive intervention—both crucial for reducing mortality.

Complementing this expertise is Professor Michael Uzoka from Mount Royal University, Calgary, Canada, whose research in public health computing bridges global technological capabilities with Africa’s local healthcare realities. Their combined experience ensures that the model will be culturally and contextually tailored, reflecting Africa’s diverse populations and health determinants.

Empowering People and Health Systems

One of the leading researchers on the project, Valentine Onyemeziri, stresses that this initiative is about much more than algorithms and data science:

“This is about creating tools that understand the African context and empower healthcare workers and individuals alike.”

The AI-powered model will not only serve clinicians but also provide user-friendly interfaces for non-specialist healthcare workers, enabling quicker decision-making in settings with few doctors. Furthermore, by integrating this technology into community outreach programs, patients themselves can access preliminary risk assessments, fostering preventive lifestyle changes before symptoms emerge.

A Blueprint for AI-Driven Healthcare in Africa

If successful, experts believe this initiative could become a continental blueprint for deploying AI to tackle non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Beyond CVD, similar models could be adapted to address diabetes, cancer, and other major health threats in Africa.

By combining innovation, local expertise, and strategic partnerships, Zion Tech Hub is proving that African-led technology can provide African solutions. This initiative reflects a larger vision: a future where AI not only drives economic growth but also protects and enhances human health—one prediction, one prevention, and one life at a time.

Zion Tech Hub is now inviting stakeholders, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to collaborate in shaping this future. With careful planning and inclusive engagement, this AI-powered cardiovascular risk assessment tool could transform not just the healthcare landscape of Nigeria, but of the entire continent.

August 2025
Adolescent Health in Sub-Saharan Africa: Multi-Country Study Reveals Mental, Nutritional, and Safety Challenges with Schools as Key Protectors
Illustrative Image: Adolescent Health in Sub-Saharan Africa: Multi-Country Study Reveals Mental, Nutritional, and Safety Challenges with Schools as Key Protectors
Image Source & Credit: © D’sel Photography // UPRPE “2024
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A recent study by Shinde et al. (2025) titled “Adolescent health and well‐being in sub‐Saharan Africa: Strengthening knowledge base and research capacity through a collaborative multi‐country school‐based study” published in Maternal & Child Nutrition by Wiley reveals that adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa face a complex mix of mental health challenges, nutritional issues, sexual health risks, and exposure to violence, with supportive school environments playing a critical protective role.

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Adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa face intertwined health challenges, with supportive school environments offering critical protection and opportunities for improved well-being.
– Shinde et al. 2025

The study is a collaborative, multi-country, school-based research initiative designed to strengthen both the knowledge base and research capacity on adolescent health in the region. Targeting school-going adolescents—a group often under-represented in health research despite being at a crucial developmental stage—the project seeks to generate robust, context-specific data across several nations in sub-Saharan Africa. The authors investigates a comprehensive range of health indicators, including physical health, mental well-being, nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, and exposure to violence. By adopting a multi-country design, the study enables valuable comparative insights and cross-cultural understanding while ensuring findings remain relevant to local contexts. A key feature of the initiative is its strong emphasis on capacity building, equipping in-country teams with advanced research skills and fostering regional collaboration to establish sustainable research networks. This approach not only addresses immediate data gaps but also lays the groundwork for future studies. Ultimately, the study aims to inform and shape national and regional health policies tailored to adolescents, ensuring evidence-based interventions that improve health outcomes and well-being for young people across sub-Saharan Africa.

How the Study was Conducted

The study on adolescent health and well-being in sub-Saharan Africa adopted a collaborative, school-based, multi-country approach to generate high-quality, context-specific data. Using a cross-sectional design, researchers gathered information from adolescents attending schools, providing access to a large and diverse sample. The initiative spanned multiple sub-Saharan African nations, enabling comparative analyses and deeper regional insights.

In each participating country, trained local research teams ensured cultural relevance and methodological consistency. Adolescents completed standardized questionnaires addressing key areas such as nutrition, mental health, sexual and reproductive health, and exposure to violence. Strict ethical protocols were observed, including obtaining informed consent and securing institutional review board approvals.

To build research capacity, local teams participated in training workshops covering study design, data collection, and analysis. The project also emphasized knowledge exchange among African institutions, fostering long-term collaboration and sustainability in adolescent health research. This rigorous, inclusive methodology not only produced reliable, actionable data but also empowered local researchers and strengthened the region’s ability to address adolescent health challenges.

What the Authors Found

The authors found that adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa experience multiple, interconnected health challenges—including high rates of psychological distress (especially among girls), a dual burden of undernutrition and obesity, micronutrient deficiencies, limited sexual and reproductive health knowledge, early sexual activity, and widespread exposure to violence—all of which negatively impact their well-being and academic performance.

The study also posits that supportive and inclusive school environments play a crucial protective role, highlighting the need for policies and interventions that strengthen schools as safe spaces while addressing the broader health, nutrition, and safety needs of adolescents.

Why is this important

Demographic urgency: Adolescents represent a growing and influential demographic in sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding their health needs is essential for shaping the region’s future.

Policy relevance: The findings offer evidence-based insights that can guide governments and organizations in designing targeted interventions, improving health services, and allocating resources more effectively.

Equity and inclusion: By focusing on school-going adolescents, the study highlights disparities in access to health information and services, especially among girls and marginalized groups.

Mental health spotlight: The research brings attention to the often-neglected issue of adolescent mental health, emphasizing the need for culturally appropriate support systems.

Violence and vulnerability: Exposure to violence—both at home and in schools—was found to be widespread, underscoring the urgency of creating safer environments for young people.

Capacity building: The study not only generated data but also strengthened local research infrastructure, empowering African institutions to lead future health initiatives.

Global relevance: While region-specific, the study contributes to the global understanding of adolescent health, offering lessons that can be adapted in other low-resource settings.

What the Authors Recommended
- Integrate adolescent-focused care—covering mental health, sexual and reproductive health, and nutrition—into national health systems, ensuring access to confidential, culturally sensitive, and youth-friendly services.
- Position schools as key platforms for delivering health education, early intervention, and support, with trained teachers equipped to address mental distress, violence, and other health challenges.
- Develop tailored mental health programs, reduce stigma through awareness campaigns, and implement robust policies, reporting systems, and protections to prevent violence in schools and communities.
- Sustain and expand data collection on adolescent health trends, while building local research expertise and strengthening institutions to lead evidence-based interventions.
- Foster coordinated action between health, education, social welfare, and justice sectors, and encourage cross-country partnerships to share best practices and align policies.
In conclusion, this landmark study underscores the urgent need for integrated, evidence-based interventions that address the multifaceted health challenges facing adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa, positioning schools, communities, and health systems as pivotal partners in safeguarding and enhancing the well-being of the region’s youth.
August 2025
Building Capacity to Combat Pediatric Hematological Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: Addressing Anemia, Sickle Cell Disease, and Childhood Cancers
Illustrative Image: Building Capacity to Combat Pediatric Hematological Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: Addressing Anemia, Sickle Cell Disease, and Childhood Cancers
Image Source & Credit: Novartis
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A recent study by Chirande et al. (2025) titled “Building capacity for pediatric hematological diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa” published in Blood Advances, reveal that pediatric hematological diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa—especially anemia, sickle cell disease, and hematological cancers—pose a massive but addressable health burden

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Pediatric blood disorders in Sub-Saharan Africa cause high mortality but can be addressed through capacity building, improved diagnostics, and specialized training.
– Chirande et al. 2025

The study provides an in-depth examination of the significant burden, challenges, and ongoing initiatives related to childhood blood disorders across the region. It emphasizes that Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces a pressing need to strengthen capacity in healthcare education and training, diagnostic infrastructure, and access to essential treatments and blood products. Hematological diseases represent a major public health concern in SSA. Anemia affects over 50% of children under five, primarily due to infections, nutritional deficiencies, and inherited disorders. Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is particularly critical—SSA accounts for roughly 80% of global SCD births, with childhood mortality rates ranging from 40% to 90% before the age of five. Additionally, hematological cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma constitute nearly half of all pediatric cancers in the region, yet survival rates remain far lower than in high-income countries due to limited resources.

A key barrier to improving outcomes is the severe diagnostic gap: many conditions go undetected because of inadequate laboratory infrastructure, a shortage of trained specialists, and limited access to advanced testing. Importantly, the study situates these efforts within a broader epidemiological transition in SSA—from predominantly infectious diseases to a growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), with hematological disorders playing a pivotal role. It calls for sustainable funding, strengthened health systems, and international partnerships to create lasting, systemic improvements in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric blood disorders.

How the Study was Conducted

The authors drew on multiple evidence sources and practical experiences. The authors reviewed literature and statistics on the major pediatric hematological diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)—including anemia, sickle cell disease (SCD), and hematological cancers—and examined persistent health system challenges such as shortages in skilled healthcare workers, inadequate diagnostic infrastructure, and limited treatment access. By consolidating diverse sources of evidence and field-based experience, the article serves as a roadmap for targeted investments in pediatric hematology. It underscores that while it is neither lab-based nor field-based research, this synthesis of data, expertise, and programmatic insights offers a strategic guide for policymakers, funders, and health leaders committed to reducing the burden of pediatric blood disorders in SSA.

What the Authors Found

The study found that pediatric hematological diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa—especially anemia, sickle cell disease, and hematological cancers—pose a massive but addressable health burden, with extremely high mortality driven by severe shortages in diagnosis, treatment infrastructure, and trained specialists, yet promising capacity-building programs like the Global HOPE fellowship show that targeted, locally adapted training and collaboration can significantly improve care.

Why is this important

Heavy Disease Burden: Over half of children under five in SSA are anemic, and the region accounts for 80% of global sickle cell births. These largely preventable or treatable conditions cause high early-childhood mortality.

Critical Gaps in Care: Limited lab infrastructure, scarce trained specialists, and poor access to medicines result in late diagnosis and inadequate treatment. Survival for childhood leukemia or lymphoma is as low as 30% in SSA, compared to up to 90% in high-income countries.

Severe Workforce Shortages: Most countries fall far short of WHO’s target of one hematologist per 100,000 people; until 2018, Uganda had no trained pediatric hematologist.

Proven Capacity-Building Models: Initiatives like the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology fellowship in Uganda, online training, and multidisciplinary case conferences are successfully building local expertise and collaborative care systems.

Urgent Global Health Priority: With SSA shifting from infectious to noncommunicable diseases, pediatric hematological disorders are emerging as a major cause of child mortality and disability—making their control essential for health equity and the SDGs.

What the Authors Recommended
- Expand fellowship programs such as the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology training at Makerere University, supported by Texas Children’s Global HOPE, and integrate web-based and mobile platforms for lectures, mentorship, and clinical consultations from international experts.
- Invest in laboratory facilities and equipment to improve detection of sickle cell disease, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, and hematological cancers, while training pathologists and lab technicians for accurate and timely diagnoses.
- Guarantee a reliable supply of medicines, blood products, and supportive care services for anemia, bleeding disorders, and malignancies, supported by robust supply chain systems.
- Offer locally relevant training programs, create incentives to reduce brain drain, and foster multidisciplinary collaboration through regular case conferences involving all relevant healthcare professionals.
- Work with global institutions to secure funding, strengthen capacity-building programs, encourage knowledge exchange, and support collaborative research tailored to local health needs.
In conclusion, pediatric hematological diseases remain a significant but solvable challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, demanding urgent and coordinated action. By investing in diagnostic infrastructure, expanding specialized training, ensuring reliable access to essential medicines and blood products, and fostering international collaboration, the region can drastically improve survival and quality of life for affected children. The evidence and strategies outlined by Chirande et al. (2025) make it clear that with sustained commitment and targeted interventions, the heavy burden of anemia, sickle cell disease, and childhood cancers can be reduced—transforming these conditions from life-threatening to manageable, and advancing health equity across the region.
August 2025
Empowering Young African Scientists to Advance Genome Editing for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security
Illustrative Image: Empowering Young African Scientists to Advance Genome Editing for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security
Image Source & Credit: IITA
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A recent study by Kitenge et al. (2025) titled “The role of young scientists in promoting genome editing for sustainable agriculture and food systems in Africa” published in Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, reveals that Africa’s progress in sustainable agriculture and food security hinges on empowering young scientists by removing barriers, strengthening education, and involving them in genome editing research and policy development.

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Africa’s agricultural future depends on empowering young scientists through education, infrastructure, and policy support to advance genome editing for food security.
– Kitenge et al. 2025

The study examines how young African researchers can play a pivotal role in advancing genome editing (GEd) technologies to transform the continent’s agriculture and food systems. The study underscores the strategic importance of engaging scientists aged 20–40 in agricultural research and innovation, noting a significant gap in youth participation in GEd initiatives. Genome editing is presented as a powerful, precise, and potentially more publicly acceptable alternative to traditional GMOs, offering solutions to improve crop resilience, boost nutritional quality, and enhance climate adaptability. However, the authors highlight persistent challenges hindering progress in Africa, including limited infrastructure, scarce funding, inadequate biotechnology education, restrictive regulations, and public skepticism. The problem is further compounded by the “brain drain” of talented young researchers seeking opportunities abroad.

How the Study was Conducted

The authors employed published reports and policy documents (e.g., AU Agenda 2063, STISA-2024), scientific literature on genome editing and biotechnology, case studies and initiatives such as BIO-EARN, SSSfA, and AUDA-NEPAD campaigns, as well as data from organizations like FAO, WHO, and Statista on food insecurity and youth demographics. The analytical process involved identifying gaps in youth participation in genome editing research, reviewing biotechnology education and infrastructure across African nations, and assessing the policy and regulatory landscape. Based on observed trends and challenges, the authors proposed actionable recommendations to enhance youth engagement in the field. The work was collaboratively reviewed by experts from Kenya, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Iran, integrating insights from both senior and young scientists to ensure a balanced and comprehensive perspective.

What the Authors Found

The study found that Africa’s progress in sustainable agriculture and food security hinges on empowering young scientists by removing barriers, strengthening education, and involving them in genome editing research and policy development.

Why is this important

Combating Food Insecurity with Science: With over 282 million Africans undernourished, genome editing offers a powerful tool to boost yields, improve nutrition, and enhance climate resilience for a population projected to surpass 2.5 billion by 2050.

Empowering Africa’s Youth: Despite making up the majority demographic, young scientists (ages 20–40) remain underrepresented in genome editing research and policy. Engaging them ensures sustainable innovation and leadership in agricultural biotechnology.

Advancing Modern, Locally Relevant Technologies: Genome editing, being precise and less controversial than GMOs, can be tailored to indigenous crops and livestock—strengthening food sovereignty and reducing reliance on imported solutions.

Shaping Policy, Education, and Resilience: The study urges investment in infrastructure, inclusive policy-making, and integration of genome editing into education, enabling Africa to build resilient, homegrown agricultural systems.

What the Authors Recommended
- The study emphasizes that governments should develop and publish clear guidelines for genome editing as well as use existing models from countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.
- Establish modern labs equipped for CRISPR/Cas research, set up incubation hubs, and fund local projects developing GEd solutions for African crops and livestock.
- Include GEd in science curricula from high school to university, following models like Kenyatta University’s programs, and provide hands-on training opportunities.
- Offer university-level courses to help young scientists explain genome editing clearly, address public concerns, and combat misinformation.
- Ensure gender equity in access to resources, create awards for outstanding young researchers, and support participation in global conferences and competitions.
- Build cross-border networks and communities of practice for young scientists to share expertise, collaborate, and drive collective innovation.
- Simplify procurement, reduce taxes and delays for lab supplies, and centralize purchasing to make research more efficient and cost-effective.
In conclusion, empowering Africa’s young scientists with the tools, skills, and policies to lead genome editing innovation is essential for building resilient, self-sustaining agricultural systems that can feed the continent’s growing population and secure its food future.
August 2025
Climate-Smart Water Management: Boosting Rice Production and Food Security in East Africa
Illustrative Image: Climate-Smart Water Management: Boosting Rice Production and Food Security in East Africa
Image Source & Credit: WFP
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A recent study by Bwire et al. (2025) titled “Water management for rice production: a key component of food security in East Africa” published in Discover Water reveals that more than 90% of rice is produced by smallholder farmers using traditional rain-fed or flooded methods, leaving production highly vulnerable to water scarcity.

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Water scarcity threatens East Africa’s rice production, and adopting climate-smart irrigation is crucial to boost yields, resilience, and regional food security.
– Bwire et al. 2025

Rice is rapidly emerging as a staple crop in East Africa, particularly in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. Despite its growing importance, more than 90% of rice is produced by smallholder farmers using traditional rain-fed or flooded methods, leaving production highly vulnerable to water scarcity. Climate change, poor irrigation infrastructure, and erratic rainfall have made water availability a major constraint, threatening yields and exacerbating food insecurity. The region’s reliance on imports underscores the production gap—East Africa brings in over 500,000 tons of rice annually, primarily from Asia, despite having significant agricultural potential. This dependency persists due to limited technical knowledge among farmers, inadequate funding and infrastructure, weak policy support, poor institutional coordination, and gender disparities in access to resources.

The study identifies three climate-smart irrigation practices with potential to transform rice production:
- Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD): Cuts water use and methane emissions in paddy fields.
- System of Rice Intensification (SRI): Boosts yields while reducing water and input requirements.
- Drip Irrigation: Highly efficient for upland rice but hindered by high costs and low awareness.
These challenges intersect with broader regional issues. Over 70 million people in East Africa are undernourished, and agriculture faces mounting climate risks, including droughts, rising temperatures, and unpredictable rainfall. Civil unrest, migration, and climate-induced displacement further strain food systems. Effective water management, combined with investment in irrigation, farmer training, and supportive policies, is critical to strengthening rice production and ensuring long-term food security in the region.

How the Study was Conducted

The study was a comprehensive literature review and synthesis of existing research, reports, and data on water management and rice production in East Africa, focusing on four key rice-producing countries—Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. Drawing on peer-reviewed scientific literature, government and NGO reports, agricultural statistics from FAO and other databases, as well as case studies and field-level experimental trials, the authors examined a wide range of interlinked issues.

The review explored the impacts of climate change on water availability and rice farming, the adoption and performance of climate-smart irrigation technologies such as alternate wetting and drying (AWD), the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), and drip irrigation, as well as the socioeconomic and institutional barriers that hinder technology uptake. It also assessed food security trends, historical and ongoing irrigation development efforts, and the effectiveness of various water management strategies.

A comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate rice production trends, irrigation practices, and food insecurity across the four countries. The authors reviewed results from experimental and pilot projects involving AWD, SRI, and drip irrigation, integrated regional climate models and drought indicators to assess vulnerability, and examined relevant national policies, land tenure systems, and institutional frameworks. The socioeconomic context—covering gender roles, migration patterns, poverty, and civil unrest—was also considered as a critical factor shaping food security outcomes.

However, the study faced limitations, as much of the available data came from small-scale trials or single-site studies, restricting the generalizability of findings. Additional challenges included gaps in up-to-date irrigation and yield statistics and a lack of high-resolution climate and agricultural data for the region.

What the Authors Found

The study found that water scarcity—worsened by climate change—is the biggest constraint on rice production in East Africa, and while climate-smart irrigation technologies could greatly improve yields and water efficiency, their adoption remains extremely low due to cost, limited awareness, and weak institutional support. Without urgent improvements in water management, farmer training, and governance, food insecurity will persist despite growing rice demand and production potential.

Why is this important

Food Security at Stake – Over 70 million people in East Africa are undernourished, and rice is emerging as a staple; boosting local production is essential for nutrition and livelihoods.

High Climate Vulnerability – Frequent droughts, erratic rainfall, and rising temperatures are undermining traditional farming, making climate-smart water management critical.

Water Management as a Game-Changer – Rice is highly water-intensive; technologies like AWD, SRI, and drip irrigation can significantly improve yields, yet poor infrastructure and governance hinder progress despite abundant water resources.

Economic and Social Benefits – Increasing domestic rice production can cut annual imports of over 500,000 tons, save foreign exchange, empower smallholder farmers, and address gender inequalities in agriculture.

Urgent Need for Action – Without timely interventions in technology adoption, farmer training, and policy reform, climate change will worsen food insecurity, drive migration, and heighten conflict risks.

What the Authors Recommended
- Provide training, on-site demonstrations, and farmer field schools to promote climate-smart irrigation (AWD, SRI, drip), while ensuring women have equal access to resources and decision-making.
- Rehabilitate and expand irrigation schemes, promote affordable smallholder-friendly tools like solar pumps and drip kits, and develop systems for rainwater harvesting and storage.
- Create integrated ICT platforms for real-time farming advice, establish early warning systems for drought, and expand long-term research on water-saving technologies and their environmental impacts.
- Strengthen water governance, improve inter-ministerial coordination, secure land rights, and align policies across agriculture, water, and the environment to support sustainable rice production.
- Facilitate cross-country knowledge exchange and build public–private partnerships to scale proven water management solutions across East Africa.
In conclusion, adopting climate-smart water management in East Africa’s rice sector offers a transformative path to boost yields, reduce imports, and strengthen food security, but urgent investment, policy reform, and inclusive farmer support are essential to realize this potential.
August 2025
Resolving the GERD Dispute: How Worldviews and the Water-Energy-Food Nexus Can Foster Nile Basin Cooperation
Illustrative Image: Resolving the GERD Dispute: How Worldviews and the Water-Energy-Food Nexus Can Foster Nile Basin Cooperation
Image Source & Credit: The exchange Africa
Ownership and Usage Policy

A recent study by Endaylalu, G. A., & Arsano, Y. (2024) titled “Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam Project Controversies: Understanding the Role of Worldviews and Nexus” published in African Anthropologist reveals that contrasting national worldviews and siloed sectoral approaches fuel the GERD dispute, but a nexus framework offers pathways toward cooperative solutions.

This article investigates why the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has become a focal point of contention among Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan. Rather than treating the dispute purely as a technical or legal issue, the authors introduce an integrated worldview–nexus framework to uncover deeper drivers of conflict and avenues for cooperation.

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Contrasting national worldviews and siloed planning drive the GERD conflict, but a nexus approach offers pathways for regional cooperation.
– Endaylalu, G. A., & Arsano, Y. 2024

Background and Motivation
Ethiopia, positioned on the Blue Nile (Abbay), possesses immense untapped hydropower potential—estimated at around 45,000 MW. Under the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) regime (1991–2018), the country aggressively pursued hydropower expansion, growing capacity from just 370 MW in 1991 to over 5,200 MW by 2023. GERD, the flagship of this strategy, symbolizes Ethiopia’s ambition to lift millions out of poverty, energize its industrial base, and strengthen national unity. However, this upstream project has provoked strong reactions from downstream Egypt, which relies on the Nile for over 90% of its freshwater, and from Sudan, which has adopted a cautious, shifting stance.

Core Concepts Worldview
At the heart of the GERD dispute lie contrasting national worldviews—coherent belief systems that shape how countries perceive, value, and manage water.

Ethiopia’s Development-Centered Worldview sees water as a vital engine for national transformation. Grounded in modern hydraulic thinking, this worldview emphasizes capturing every drop of water for economic development, particularly through hydropower. GERD is not merely a dam; it is a symbol of progress, self-reliance, and political legitimacy.

Egypt’s Water Security-Centered Worldview treats the Nile as the country’s lifeblood—integral to its identity, agriculture, and very survival. With deep historical ties to the 1959 Nile Waters Agreement, Egypt views any upstream interference as a threat to its rightful share and national security. GERD, in this context, is perceived as a destabilizing force that challenges Egypt’s historical entitlements.

Sudan’s Middle-Ground Worldview is more ambivalent. On one hand, GERD offers tangible benefits like cheap electricity and flood regulation. On the other, concerns over dam safety and downstream irrigation impacts create hesitation. Sudan’s position shifts depending on domestic priorities and regional political alignments, at times leaning toward Egypt, at other times toward Ethiopia.

The Nexus Approach: Connecting Water, Energy, and Food
To move beyond zero-sum thinking, the nexus approach offers a pathway for integrated planning. Rather than treating water, energy, and food as separate sectors, this paradigm recognizes their interdependence. For example, hydropower from GERD could stabilize regional power supply and support irrigation in both Ethiopia and Sudan. Yet, rapid dam filling might reduce downstream water availability, harming agriculture in Egypt and Sudan.

The nexus framework emphasizes managing trade-offs and synergies across sectors and borders. It calls for coordinated, transboundary planning and investment—breaking free from siloed national strategies. Through this lens, the GERD dispute is not just about water flows but about conflicting development paths, fragmented governance, and missed opportunities for cooperation.

How the Study was Conducted

The study adopts a qualitative case study approach centered on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), selected for its geopolitical significance, scale, and far-reaching impacts across water, energy, food, and environmental sectors. The research draws on diverse data sources and analytical tools to uncover how competing national worldviews and sectoral priorities shape the regional discourse around GERD.

Data Collection Methods
The research relied on two primary data collection methods: semi-structured interviews and document analysis.

A total of 38 purposively selected resource persons were interviewed across multiple governance levels:

Regional level: Experts from the Eastern Nile Technical Regional Office (ENTRO)

National level: Officials and experts from key Ethiopian ministries (Water & Energy, Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Irrigation), Ethiopian Electric Power, the Environmental Protection Authority, the GERD Public Participation Council, and academia

In addition, a broad range of documents were reviewed, including:

Official Ethiopian strategies and plans (e.g., Climate-Resilient Green Economy Strategy, Abbay Basin Master Plan)

Technical documents such as feasibility studies, power system expansion blueprints, and electrification programs

Legal texts like Egypt’s 2014 Constitution and the 1959 Nile Waters Agreement

Government communications, such as public statements, letters to the UN Security Council, and relevant UNSC resolutions

Reports by national and international panels of experts, the Eastern Africa Power Pool, and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation

Academic and grey literature on Nile hydropolitics, transboundary water governance, hydropower, and the water-energy-food nexus

Analytical Framework
Two interlinked frameworks guide the analysis:

Worldview Analysis – Examines each riparian state’s framing of GERD through five dimensions: ontology (what exists), epistemology (how knowledge is produced), axiology (values), anthropology (human-nature relations), and societal vision. This lens helps reveal how Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan differently conceptualize the dam’s purpose, benefits, and risks.

Nexus Analysis – Applies a water-energy-food-environment (WEFE) nexus perspective to identify cross-sector linkages, trade-offs, and potential synergies in hydropower development, highlighting both national dependencies and regional interdependencies.

Data Processing and Interpretation
Interview transcripts were thematically coded based on core worldview dimensions and nexus linkages. Documentary materials were analyzed for discursive cues, such as language that securitizes water use or frames development as a national imperative. A comparative synthesis then traced points of convergence and divergence in the three countries’ worldviews and planning practices.

What the Authors Found

The authors found contrasting national worldviews and siloed sectoral approaches fuel the GERD dispute, but a nexus framework offers pathways toward cooperative solutions.

Why is this important

Integrated Worldview–Nexus Framework Uncovers Root Causes: The study reveals that deeply held national worldviews—such as Ethiopia’s developmental imperative and Egypt’s existential water concerns—are central to the GERD deadlock. Recognizing these foundational beliefs is essential to overcoming zero-sum politics.

Breaks Down Disciplinary Silos in River Basin Management: By using a nexus approach, the research demonstrates that water, energy, food, and environmental issues are deeply interconnected and cannot be addressed in isolation. Integrated planning is key to identifying synergies and managing trade-offs.

Provides Concrete Tools for Negotiators and Policymakers: The study offers actionable solutions such as joint impact assessments, coordinated dam filling schedules, benefit-sharing mechanisms, and trust-building workshops that address the concerns of all riparian states.

Creates a Scalable Model for Global Transboundary Disputes: Beyond the Nile, this framework serves as a transferable blueprint for resolving conflicts in other shared river basins like the Mekong, Amazon, and Danube by highlighting the role of competing narratives and cross-sector integration.

Supports Sustainable Development and Conflict Prevention: Aligning upstream energy goals with downstream food and ecological needs contributes to the SDGs and helps prevent conflict. Institutionalizing nexus thinking across ministries and borders strengthens resilience and regional cooperation.

What the Authors recommended
- The authors advocates implementing a Basin-Wide Nexus Approach; Integrate water, energy, food, and environmental planning to identify shared benefits and manage trade-offs—such as aligning dam operations with regional irrigation, power, and flow needs.
- The study emphasizes establishing negotiation forums that involve technical experts, policymakers, and civil society from all riparian states, while recognizing and respecting each country’s unique historical and cultural worldview.
- Collaboratively model various dam operation and drought scenarios, openly exchange data, and align expectations on water availability, energy generation, and agricultural impacts.
- Link cooperation to tangible rewards—such as hydropower trade, flood control, and drought relief—while providing safeguards for downstream users and incentives for upstream stakeholders.
- In addition, reform national agencies to support cross-sector coordination, establish a legal framework for a Nile-wide authority, and invest in training and regular workshops to foster trust, technical capacity, and conflict resolution.
In conclusion, the GERD dispute is not merely a technical or legal impasse but a reflection of deeper, competing national worldviews and fragmented sectoral planning. By adopting an integrated worldview–nexus framework, the study highlights the urgent need for collaborative, cross-sectoral, and transboundary approaches that recognize interdependencies and shared interests. Moving from confrontation to cooperation requires not just political will but a fundamental shift in how the Nile Basin countries perceive and manage their shared resources.
August 2025
Collaborative Practices Among Yoruba Traditional Healers in Epilepsy Treatment: Insights from a 2024 Study in Southwest Nigeria
Illustrative Image: Collaborative Practices Among Yoruba Traditional Healers in Epilepsy Treatment: Insights from a 2024 Study in Southwest Nigeria
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A recent study by Ademilokun, T. F., & Agunbiade, O. M. (2024) titled “Collaborative practice in the treatment of epilepsy among Yoruba traditional healers in Southwest Nigeria” published in African Anthropologist, reveals that collaborative practices among Yoruba traditional healers play a crucial role in the treatment of epilepsy, enabling improved treatment outcomes, knowledge sharing, and enhanced trust within their communities.

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Collaborative practices among Yoruba traditional healers significantly enhance epilepsy treatment outcomes through knowledge sharing, trust-building, and culturally grounded care.
– Ademilokun, T. F., & Agunbiade, O. M. (2024

The study examines how traditional healers in Yoruba communities work together to manage epilepsy, particularly in complex cases. The research focuses on two main objectives: To explore the ways in which Yoruba traditional healers collaborate in the treatment of epilepsy and to assess the implications of such collaboration for patient care, treatment effectiveness, and access to healthcare services. Epilepsy remains highly prevalent across Africa, with a significant number of cases going untreated due to inadequate access to biomedical healthcare. In this context, traditional medicine continues to serve as an essential and accessible form of healthcare in Nigeria, especially in rural and marginalized communities. Within the Yoruba healing system, illness is understood through an integrated lens that combines natural, supernatural, and spiritual dimensions. This holistic worldview shapes how epilepsy is perceived and treated, making collaboration among traditional healers a critical aspect of patient care.

How the Study was Conducted

The study adopted a qualitative research approach to explore the collaborative practices of Yoruba traditional healers in the treatment of epilepsy. Conducted in Ile-Ife and Modakeke-Ife—two culturally significant towns in Southwest Nigeria renowned for their deep-rooted Yoruba heritage and traditional healing systems—the research aimed to uncover the social and spiritual dimensions of indigenous healing.

A total of 24 traditional healers participated in the study, including diviners, herbalists, and herb sellers. Using a snowball sampling technique, researchers began with a few initial contacts who then referred them to other practitioners, enabling access to a broader and more interconnected network of healers.

Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews, allowing for open-ended yet guided discussions around themes such as collaboration styles, referral practices, and healer-patient dynamics. Interviews were conducted in either Yoruba or English, based on each participant’s language preference.

All interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis, which helped identify key patterns and recurring themes within the data. This method provided rich insights into how traditional healers collaborate—both formally and informally—when treating complex cases of epilepsy. The study ultimately highlighted the strengths, limitations, and cultural context of collaborative healing within Yoruba traditional medicine.

What the Author Found

The author found that collaborative practices among Yoruba traditional healers play a crucial role in the treatment of epilepsy, enabling improved treatment outcomes, knowledge sharing, and enhanced trust within their communities. However, these collaborations are largely informal, with limited patient involvement and inconsistent referral practices, which may affect the quality and safety of care. The study highlights the need for more structured and transparent systems to support both healers and patients.

Why is this important

Enhance Collaboration Among Healers: The study underscores the value of consultation, knowledge sharing, and referrals among traditional healers. Strengthening these collaborative practices can lead to more effective and consistent epilepsy care, particularly in areas with limited biomedical services.

Improve Access to Care in Underserved Areas: Given the scarcity of formal healthcare in many rural Nigerian communities, empowering traditional healers—who are often the first point of contact—can help bridge critical healthcare gaps for epilepsy patients.

Build Trust Through Community-Based Practices: Collaborative healing enhances a healer’s credibility and promotes trust among patients. Encouraging cooperative practices can foster better treatment adherence and positive community health outcomes.

Address Ethical Concerns and Promote Patient Consent: The study reveals that patient involvement is often limited in healer consultations. The authors recommend increasing transparency and ensuring informed consent to protect patient rights and autonomy.

Support Policy Development and System Integration: Findings advocate for integrating traditional healers into national health frameworks through structured referral systems, standardized practices, and culturally sensitive training, ensuring patient safety and service quality.

Leverage Cultural Knowledge for Global Health: The research offers valuable insights into how cultural beliefs and practices influence healthcare delivery. These lessons can inform global health initiatives in other multicultural or resource-constrained settings.

What the Authors Recommended
- Encourage greater openness about how traditional healers collaborate, especially in complex cases, to reduce secrecy and improve public understanding and trust.
- Develop structured mechanisms for referring patients both within traditional healer networks and to biomedical facilities, ensuring continuity of care and minimizing the risks of informal or incomplete referrals.
- Advocate for increased patient involvement in treatment decisions. Traditional healers should prioritize informed consent when consulting peers or referring patients to others.
- Support the development and capacity of healer associations to promote ethical standards, peer accountability, knowledge exchange, and ongoing training.
- Explore collaborative models that link traditional healing with biomedical care—such as mutual referral pathways, cross-training, and community health partnerships—to enhance overall healthcare delivery.
In conclusion, the study by Ademilokun and Agunbiade provides critical insight into the collaborative dynamics among Yoruba traditional healers in the treatment of epilepsy. By shedding light on both the strengths and limitations of these informal networks, the research underscores the importance of integrating traditional healing practices into broader health systems. Strengthening collaboration, ensuring patient involvement, and fostering mutual respect between traditional and biomedical practitioners can lead to more inclusive, culturally relevant, and effective healthcare delivery—particularly in underserved communities where access to conventional medical care remains limited.
August 2025
August 2025: Professor Priscilla Baker – African Female Researcher of the Month
Illustrative Image: August 2025: Professor Priscilla Baker – African Female Researcher of the Month
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August 2025: Professor Priscilla Baker – African Female Researcher of the Month

Overview

Professor Priscilla Baker is a distinguished South African analytical chemist whose pioneering contributions to environmental electrochemistry and her commitment to mentorship and scientific leadership have earned her a place among the continent’s most influential scientists. In June 2025, she was named the African and Arab States Laureate of the prestigious L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards, a recognition that places her among the top five women scientists globally for that year. This accolade, awarded at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, celebrates her groundbreaking work on electrochemical microsensors used for detecting environmental contaminants—research that has broad applications in the pharmaceutical, health, food, and energy sectors.

Early Life and Education

Born and raised in Bellville South, Cape Town, Professor Baker’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Oceanography from the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 1990. As the only Black woman in her class, she encountered systemic barriers early on. Recalling how research vessels were neither designed for women nor receptive to people of colour in professional scientific roles, she pivoted from oceanography to analytical chemistry—a field in which she would eventually thrive.

She later obtained a National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, before pursuing an Honours and MSc in Chemistry at the University of the Western Cape (UWC). Her MSc research focused on the evaluation of trace metals in the atmosphere, indicating an early interest in environmental monitoring. In 2004, she completed her PhD in Chemistry at Stellenbosch University, with a dissertation on novel metal tin oxide composites as anodes for phenol degradation—a topic aligned with sustainable environmental practices.

Academic and Research Leadership

Currently a Professor of Analytical Chemistry at the University of the Western Cape, Professor Baker serves as co-director of SensorLab, an internationally recognized research group focusing on the electrodynamics of materials and the development of sensor technologies. Her research encompasses analytical chemistry, electrochemistry, nanoscience, and environmental science, particularly in developing integrated analytical protocols to address environmental, health, and safety monitoring challenges.

Her expertise in electrochemical microsensors—devices used to detect trace contaminants in air, water, and biological systems—has led to critical advancements in monitoring pollution, ensuring pharmaceutical safety, and contributing to green energy research. These contributions were central to her 2025 L’Oréal–UNESCO award win.

Global Recognition and Awards

Professor Baker’s scientific excellence has been recognized both nationally and internationally. Key accolades include:
- L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science International Award (2025) – Laureate for Africa and the Arab States.
- Distinguished Woman Scientist Award (2014) – Awarded by South Africa’s Department of Science and Technology in the category of Physical and Engineering Sciences.
- South African Research Chair (SARChI) in Analytical Systems and Processes for Priority and Emerging Contaminants (ASPPEC), awarded in 2018 by the Department of Science and Technology and the National Research Foundation.
Mentorship and Capacity Building

A dedicated mentor, Professor Baker has been instrumental in nurturing the next generation of African scientists. Her leadership of the Southern African Systems Analysis Centre (SASAC) from 2017–2019 significantly expanded interdisciplinary research capacity across the continent. Under her guidance, nearly 60 PhD candidates were recruited into transboundary research initiatives addressing regional and global scientific challenges.

Additionally, she established the Senergylab Associated International Laboratory, a collaborative postgraduate training program between UWC’s SensorLab and LPPI at CY Cergy Paris University, France. This initiative promotes dual-degree PhD programmes, international research exchange, and joint capacity building in electrochemistry and polymer sciences.

Professional Affiliations and Community Service

Professor Baker is an engaged member of several scientific bodies:
- Fellow, African Academy of Sciences (2018)
- Fellow, Royal Society of Chemistry (UK, 2019)
- Deputy Chairperson, Electroanalytical Chemistry Division, International Society of Electrochemistry (ISE) (2013–2016)
- Regional Representative for South Africa and Africa, ISE (2016–2021)
- Member, Academy of Science of South Africa
- Participant in the European Scientific Network for Artificial Muscles (ESNAM) and the Marie Curie International Staff Exchange Scheme (IRSES)
Her service in these roles has strengthened African representation in global science, while fostering collaborative networks for innovation in electrochemical technologies.

Personal Philosophy and Community Engagement

Beyond the laboratory, Professor Baker is deeply committed to educational outreach and community development. She frequently returns to her high school in Bellville South to motivate learners, especially young girls of colour, to pursue careers in science. Her journey—from being excluded from oceanographic vessels to becoming an internationally celebrated scientist—serves as a beacon of resilience, transformation, and empowerment.

Legacy and Impact

With over two decades of leadership in research, mentorship, and policy engagement, Professor Priscilla Baker continues to expand the frontiers of science in Africa and beyond. Her work not only advances the field of analytical chemistry but also helps dismantle the structural barriers that have historically marginalized women and people of colour in science.

Her 2025 L’Oréal–UNESCO award is not just a recognition of personal excellence, but a celebration of her broader mission: to create inclusive scientific ecosystems where innovation and equity thrive together.

“My story is not just about overcoming barriers—it’s about building bridges for others.”
— Prof. Priscilla Baker
August 2025
August 2025: Professor Novel Njweipi Chegou – African Male Researcher of the Month
Illustrative Image: August 2025: Professor Novel Njweipi Chegou – African Male Researcher of the Month
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August 2025: Professor Novel Njweipi Chegou – African Male Researcher of the Month

Overview

Professor Novel Njweipi Chegou is an internationally acclaimed Cameroonian molecular biologist and immunologist whose groundbreaking work in tuberculosis (TB) diagnostics has placed him at the forefront of global TB research. He is currently a senior researcher and head of the TB Diagnostic Biomarkers Laboratory within the Stellenbosch University Immunology Research Group (SU-IRG), where he leads one of five independent research laboratories.

Prof. Chegou’s research primarily focuses on the development of innovative diagnostic tools for both pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB, with a particular emphasis on biomarker discovery and the development of point-of-care testing platforms suitable for use in low-resource settings.

Education and Early Career

Originally from the Anglophone region of Cameroon, Prof. Chegou began his academic journey at the University of Buea, where he trained as a Medical Laboratory Scientist. Driven by a desire to address pressing health issues in Africa, he pursued postgraduate studies in South Africa at Stellenbosch University, where he obtained his MSc and PhD in Health Sciences. His MSc research, which was later upgraded to a PhD, marked the beginning of a focused career in TB immunology.

During his doctoral studies, he identified and patented a QuantiFERON supernatant biosignature capable of distinguishing between active and latent TB infection—a major advancement in TB diagnostics. This work laid the foundation for his continuing efforts in biomarker-based diagnostic innovation.

Research Focus

Prof. Chegou has spent nearly two decades dedicated to understanding and improving the way TB is diagnosed and managed. His work is particularly focused on:
- Biomarker discovery for TB diagnosis
- Monitoring of treatment response in TB patients
- Point-of-care diagnostics for rural and under-resourced communities
- Diagnosis of extrapulmonary TB, including TB meningitis in children
- Immunological and microbiota-related factors influencing TB disease
He has also pioneered animal model studies to explore the link between gut microbiota composition and TB pathogenesis, as well as how bacterial polysaccharides may affect TB treatment response.

One of his current focal areas is the diagnosis of TB meningitis in children, a notoriously difficult form of TB to detect early. His lab is working to refine existing biomarkers into diagnostic tools that could be deployed outside tertiary hospitals, significantly reducing delays in diagnosis and preventing irreversible neurological damage in children.

Awards and Recognitions

Prof. Chegou’s innovative contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally. Some of his most significant accolades include:
- Royal Society Africa Prize (2022):
  Awarded by the UK’s national science academy, this prestigious prize recognises Prof. Chegou’s innovative contributions to TB diagnostics and his impact on African science. It is one of the highest honours in scientific achievement and places him alongside some of the world’s most influential scientists.
- SAMRC Silver Scientific Achievement Award (2019):
  From the South African Medical Research Council, this award recognises his outstanding scientific contributions to TB research.
- UNESCO-MARS Young Researcher Award (2015):
  Recognised at the Merck Africa Research Summit for his excellence in scientific innovation and dedication to health challenges in Africa.
- NSTF-South32 Awards Finalist (2019):
  Acknowledged for his significant research contributions to the scientific and technological advancement of South Africa.
- SU Rector’s Award for General Performance (2015):
  Honoured for academic and research excellence at Stellenbosch University.
- Best Honours Student in South Africa (2005):
  Awarded by the South African Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Institutional Roles and Collaborations

At Stellenbosch University, Prof. Chegou plays a dual role as both an academic mentor and research leader. He supervises a wide range of postgraduate students, many of whom are from underrepresented African regions, thereby nurturing the next generation of African scientists.

His work has led to multiple international collaborations, including with organizations involved in the European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP), through which he has served as a Senior Fellow, and with institutions across Europe and North America.

Impact and Vision

Prof. Chegou’s research is driven by a commitment to solving real-world problems in global health. His contributions are not limited to the lab; they aim to translate scientific discovery into accessible health tools that save lives, especially in resource-limited communities where the burden of TB remains high.

As he reflects on the significance of winning the Royal Society Africa Prize, he notes:

“It sends out a message that somebody out there sees what you are doing, and that they value what you are doing.”

Prof. Chegou hopes that the award will amplify awareness about TB, foster new partnerships, and open doors for increased funding and broader dissemination of the diagnostic tools his team is developing.

Legacy and Continuing Work

As a National Research Foundation (NRF) B-rated Scientist, Prof. Chegou is recognized as an internationally acclaimed researcher with high impact in his field. His legacy lies not only in his scientific contributions but also in his mentorship, leadership, and his role in shaping Africa’s research capacity in infectious diseases.

Looking ahead, his ambition is clear:
To develop reliable, affordable, and rapid diagnostic tools that can change the course of TB detection and treatment, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and the rural poor.

In Summary:
Prof. Novel Njweipi Chegou stands as a beacon of excellence in African science—a visionary researcher whose work is transforming TB diagnostics globally while championing local innovation, capacity building, and equitable healthcare solutions.
August 2025
Cholera Crisis in West and Central Africa: 80,000 Children at Risk Amid Deadly Outbreaks in 12 Countries
Illustrative Image: Cholera Crisis in West and Central Africa: 80,000 Children at Risk Amid Deadly Outbreaks in 12 Countries
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An alarming surge in cholera outbreaks across West and Central Africa has put an estimated 80,000 children at immediate risk, according to UNICEF. As the region enters its rainy season, escalating floods and widespread displacement are creating the ideal conditions for cholera transmission—fuelling what could become one of the deadliest regional health crises in years.

Active cholera outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Nigeria, the two most severely affected countries, have heightened the risk of cross-border infections. Additional outbreaks have been confirmed in Chad, Republic of Congo, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo, while Niger, Liberia, Benin, the Central African Republic, and Cameroon remain under close surveillance due to high vulnerability. The entire region is on alert as health systems are being stretched to their limits.

“Heavy rains, overflowing rivers, and mass displacement are intensifying cholera transmission risks and endangering the lives of children,” said Gilles Fagninou, UNICEF’s Regional Director for West and Central Africa. “The situation is urgent—without safe water, proper sanitation, and immediate medical intervention, children will continue to die. This is a survival emergency.”

Epicentre: Democratic Republic of the Congo

The DRC is currently the hardest-hit country. In July alone, the DRC’s Ministry of Health reported over 38,000 cholera cases and 951 deaths, with children under five representing more than a quarter (25.6%) of cases. Several provinces are in crisis—including South Kivu, North Kivu, Haut Katanga, Tshopo, Haut Lomami, Tanganyika, and Maniema—with forecasts suggesting this could be the worst outbreak since 2017 if containment efforts are not intensified.

The situation in Kinshasa, the capital, is particularly dire. Torrential rains and severe flooding have overwhelmed the city’s fragile infrastructure, leading to a rapid spike in cholera cases and a shocking case fatality rate of 8%. Healthcare systems are buckling under the pressure, struggling to cope with the growing influx of patients.

Cholera and Children: A Dangerous Mix

Children—especially those under five—are uniquely vulnerable to cholera due to several interrelated factors:
- Weaker immune systems and greater risk of dehydration.
- Inadequate access to clean drinking water and poor hygiene.
- Malnutrition, which amplifies the risk of death from cholera.
In places like Chad, the crisis is being exacerbated by displacement. At the Dougui refugee site, about 103 km from Abéché and near the Sudanese border, 55 suspected cholera cases and four deaths have already been reported. Tests confirmed the presence of Vibrio cholerae in multiple samples. Most residents at this site are children living in overcrowded conditions with limited access to healthcare, potable water, and sanitation.

Nigeria and Beyond: The Widening Web of Infection

Nigeria, which has battled recurrent cholera outbreaks for years, has recorded 3,109 suspected cases and 86 deaths across 34 states as of June 2025. The country’s endemic vulnerability stems from weak water infrastructure, informal settlements, and frequent flooding.

Other nations are also struggling:
- Ghana has reported 612 cases as of April 28.
- Côte d’Ivoire has seen 322 cases and 15 deaths as of mid-July.
- Togo recorded 209 cases and five deaths by late June.
While these figures may seem modest individually, taken together they point to a regional health emergency poised to grow worse without immediate intervention.

UNICEF’s Response and Urgent Appeal

Since the onset of the outbreaks, UNICEF has been actively responding by:
- Delivering emergency health kits and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) supplies to communities and treatment centers.
- Supporting targeted cholera vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas.
- Promoting risk communication and community-based hygiene education.
- Strengthening preparedness efforts in countries under threat.
However, the scale of the emergency demands more. UNICEF is urgently appealing for $20 million over the next three months to scale up life-saving interventions across affected and at-risk regions. These funds are critical to:
- Equip health facilities.
- Ensure clean water access.
- Prevent transmission through community engagement and early warning systems.
“We are racing against time to prevent a full-blown disaster,” said Fagninou. “With our partners, we are extending our reach into underserved and remote areas—determined to protect every child from this preventable, treatable disease.”

The Bigger Picture: Cholera as a Development and Equity Crisis

Cholera is not just a health issue—it reflects broader systemic failures in water access, sanitation infrastructure, and public health systems. In regions where poverty, displacement, and climate extremes intersect, the disease thrives.

What is unfolding across West and Central Africa is both a humanitarian emergency and a development crisis—one that disproportionately endangers children. Ending cholera in the region will require not only emergency aid but also long-term investments in clean water systems, education, urban planning, and climate resilience.

The time to act is now. Without immediate support, thousands more children will suffer and die needlessly from a disease that is entirely preventable.
August 2025