Sub-Saharan Africa leads the world in global HIV response, but advocates warn against risk of shrinking finance

Sub-Saharan Africa is at the forefront of the global HIV response, driven by strong political commitment, as highlighted in a UNAIDS report presented at the Munich HIV conference. However, there is concern over diminishing financial support from donor countries, which could undermine progress. Anne Githuku-Shongwe from UNAIDS and Catherine Connor from the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation emphasize the need for sustained efforts, particularly in addressing pediatric HIV, where infection rates remain troubling.

Advocates hail sub-Saharan Africa’s lead in global HIV response

Sub-Saharan Africa is leading the global response to HIV, with significant progress in providing antiretroviral therapy to millions. A UNAIDS report highlights that 84% of people living with HIV in the region have access to treatment, with 94% achieving virus suppression. However, challenges remain, particularly in countries like South Sudan and Angola, due to civil unrest and lack of resources. Concerns are raised about the dwindling donor funding, with a significant shortfall projected by 2025. Pediatric HIV remains a critical issue, with children representing a disproportionate number of new infections and deaths. Advocates stress the importance of continued global efforts to prevent a resurgence of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Analysts say US image as beacon of democracy is "diminishing" after Trump assassination attempt

A 20-year-old man attempted to assassinate former U.S. President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania, prompting federal authorities to investigate the shooter's motives. President Joe Biden condemned the attack and political violence. Analysts, including Michaela Millender from the Soufan Center and Declan Galvin from Exigent Risk Advisory, discuss the potential impact on the U.S.'s democratic image and the upcoming November elections.

Somaliland high schools take part in speed reading contest to promote literacy learning

The Sahamiye Foundation organized a speed reading contest in Somaliland to promote literacy among high school students. The competition, using the Daariz app, aimed to improve Somali language skills and celebrate reading. Hibo, a 14-year-old student, won the contest with a reading speed of 292 words per minute, earning a $500 prize. The event highlighted the transformative potential of literacy, with the foundation's founder, Hayat Arteh, expressing excitement over its success. The foundation, established by Ismail Ahmed, focuses on enhancing literacy and education.

IMF names Niger, Senegal among sub-Saharan Africa’s fast-growing economies

The IMF's Africa department director, Abebe Aemro Selassie, highlights Niger and Senegal as fast-growing economies in sub-Saharan Africa, with projected growth rates of 10.4% and 8.3% respectively, driven by new oil production. The IMF's 2024 regional outlook indicates a modest growth increase for the region, despite financial challenges due to tighter monetary policies in advanced economies. The IMF and World Bank have provided significant financial support, and the IMF recommends reforms to enhance economic resilience, focusing on improved domestic revenue mobilization. The article discusses the challenges and necessity of implementing these reforms without overburdening consumers.

Oil and gas key to Niger & Senegal’s economic growth, IMF finds

The International Monetary Fund highlights Niger and Senegal as fast-growing economies in sub-Saharan Africa, attributing their growth to oil and gas resources. Despite a positive outlook for regional economic recovery, growth has been slower than anticipated.

Casey Family Programs CIO Discusses Investment in Africa and Foster Care Prevention

Joseph Boateng, the chief investment officer at Casey Family Programs, discussed the foundation's efforts to prevent the need for foster care in the U.S. by investing in Africa. In an interview with VOA's Ignatius Annor, Boateng emphasized the importance of partnerships rather than charity, with a focus on long-term investments in various sectors such as energy, technology, real estate, education, and healthcare. He highlighted the foundation's commitment to transparency, hard work, and making a meaningful change in the well-being of people in Africa and children in foster care in the U.S. Casey Family Programs has nearly reached $100 million in commitments and investments in Africa and is open to increasing this amount based on the attractiveness and potential of future investments. Boateng hopes the upcoming U.S.-Africa Leaders’ Summit will lead to action and tangible deals, not just photo opportunities.

Washington's Focus on Israel-Gaza Conflict Amidst Russia-Ukraine Tensions

An analyst from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy commented on the current geopolitical situation involving the Israel-Gaza conflict and its implications on the attention given to the larger Russia-Ukraine conflict by Washington. The analyst, David Shenker, also touched upon the recent political development in the U.S. with the ouster of Speaker Kevin McCarthy, which was partly due to his stance on U.S. support for Ukraine. Despite these events, President Joe Biden has reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel, a sentiment that Shenker says is echoed by 'iron-clad' support on Capitol Hill. The information was provided during an interview with VOA's Ignatius Annor.

Is South Africa’s Case Against Israel at the ICJ Having Any Impact at All?

The International Court of Justice is holding hearings to consider a request by the UN General Assembly for an advisory opinion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. South Africa's representative argued that Israel is responsible for apartheid against Palestinians and that the occupation of land is illegal. Israel has rejected these claims. The impact of preliminary measures issued by the court on January 26 is being questioned.

U.S. Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa Holds Hearing on Sahel Instability

The article discusses a Congressional hearing conducted by the U.S. Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, which addressed the increasing conflicts and instability in Sahel nations such as Sudan, Niger, and Chad. The hearing aimed to review and potentially revise U.S. policy in the region. VOA's Esther Githui-Ewart interviewed VOA’s Ignatius Annor for his insights on the proposed policy changes. Annor had attended the hearing and provided an analysis of the discussions and implications for U.S. engagement in the Sahel.