Science and research news from Africa. Covers Congo Basin wildlife, maternity care, malaria resurgence, and drug-resistant parasites.
Researchers at the University of Exeter discovered that ancient ostrich eggshells from Bundu Farm site reveal evidence of extreme climate change in Southern Africa 250,000 to 350,000 years ago. The findings support other fossil animal bones and suggest a shift from wetland and grassland to arid environments after 200,000 years.
A 200-million-year-old South African dinosaur, Heterodontosaurus tucki, breathed by expanding its chest and belly, unlike birds which use air sacs. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of how dinosaurs breathed and could help paleontologists understand what features allowed certain species to survive or go extinct.
A new fossil discovery has revealed that dinosaurs did not breathe in the same way, with Heterodontosaurus having unique paddle-shaped ribs and expanded belly to breathe. The study provides insight into the biology of ornithischian dinosaurs and fills gaps in knowledge about their evolution.
African countries can better interpret complex data with a new data-driven framework, tracking and predicting country-level case incidence. The framework considers factors like testing capacity, social policy, landlocked status, temperature, and humidity.
A new study challenges the idea that early humans hunted prehistoric elephants, mammoths, and mastodonts to extinction. Instead, it suggests that climate change played a significant role in their decline over millions of years.
During their marathon flights, great snipes change elevation depending on time of day, typically flying higher in daylight to escape heat and finding a behavior that's optimal for them. They reach astonishing altitudes, with one bird flying as high as 8,700 meters, nearly as high as Mount Everest.
An international team has developed a predictive tool to help mitigate COVID-19 in Africa, utilizing current case data, population, economic status, and meteorological sensing from satellites. The tool provides weekly projections of expected cases and helps countries decide on mitigation policies.
A new study developed methods to help breeders create fast-maturing soybean lines specifically for African environments. The researchers analyzed cultivar time-to-maturity against environmental variables and found daily minimum temperature and change in day length were more important than genotypic differences.
Winter rainfall in sub-Saharan Africa limits painted lady butterfly migrations to Europe. The size of migrating populations varies greatly, increasing by a hundredfold in some years, likely driven by weather conditions in West Africa.
A comprehensive health-screening program in rural northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, has identified a high burden of undiagnosed or poorly controlled non-communicable diseases. The study found that four out of five women over the age of 30 were living with chronic health conditions, highlighting the need for urgent interventions.
Researchers reconstruct climate history in Ethiopia for the last 200,000 years, revealing a wet phase that supported human migration to Europe and Asia. The study provides evidence for significant impact on human evolution and mobility.
Africa's largest human genetic diversity makes it crucial for understanding neurological disorders, yet research output is heavily influenced by external funding sources. The study highlights the need for greater domestic funding to support sustainable African neuroscience research and combat brain drain.
The discovery of ancient plant fossils in South Africa provides insights into the greening of continents. The fossils, dated to 420-410 million years ago, include 15 species, three of which are new to science.
African MERS-CoV strains show lower replication rates and virulence compared to Saudi Arabian strains. Spike protein differences contribute to the disparity, raising concerns about increased transmission and global outbreak risk.
African researchers identify ancient El Niño-like weather patterns as major climate drivers, challenging existing views on human evolution. The 'climate seesaw' shifted rainfall between eastern and western Africa over 100,000 years, influencing vegetation, mammal fauna, and human dispersal.
A recent study reveals that warming and cooling of the Pacific Ocean, driven by solar radiation changes, impacted moisture availability in Africa. This climate process may have shaped the distribution of plant and animal species, creating favorable conditions for resource-rich regions where modern humans emerged.
Researchers led by Stefano Biagetti used portable X-ray fluorescence analysis to analyze anthropogenic sediments in Botswana, detecting patterns of livestock use, middens, and workshop areas. The non-invasive technique provides unprecedented insights into ancient settlement functions, confirming the potential for future archaeological ...
Researchers found that houses with higher floors had significantly fewer female Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes, with a 84% reduction at 3m. This could lead to comparable reductions in malaria transmission. The study suggests elevating homes may be an effective intervention in sub-Saharan Africa.
A massive Saharan African dust plume traveled across the Atlantic in June 2020, affecting Caribbean and Gulf Coast states. Researchers used satellite data to understand the mechanism behind the phenomenon, which could occur more frequently due to climate change, posing health risks and disrupting transportation systems.
A new study in PNAS reveals that domesticated watermelons come from wild crop progenitors in northeast Africa. The research uses DNA from hundreds of watermelon varieties to confirm the correct origin, correcting a long-held misconception about their South African roots.
Researchers sequenced the entire genome from Peştera Muierii 1, a woman who lived in Romania 35,000 years ago. The study found high genetic diversity, suggesting that the greatest loss of genetic diversity occurred during the last Ice Age, rather than during the out of Africa migration.
Scientists have identified areas at high risk for conflicts between humans and elephants and lions in Africa. The study estimates that mitigation fences could provide considerable return on investment via reduced cattle loss and crop damage.
The study found that invasive alien species cause substantial crop losses and economic costs, with the moth Phthorimaea absoluta affecting tomato plants and costing $4.1 billion per year in crop losses. Weeding cereal crops accounts for 72% of total weeding costs, totaling $26.2 billion annually.
The economic impact of Invasive Alien Species on Africa's agricultural sector is estimated to be $3.6 trillion a year, with cassava and citrus fruits being among the most affected crops. The study highlights the need for measures to prevent new species from arriving and established species from spreading.
A new study suggests that the pet trade in bushbabies could be causing genetic changes within their wild populations, affecting their ability to adapt to human expansion. Researchers analyzed DNA samples from bushbabies across South Africa and found unusual gene mutations that may indicate secret animal trafficking.
Researchers found that Indigenous languages overlap with 8,200 species ranges in African UNESCO sites, suggesting a strong connection between cultural and biodiversity preservation. The study suggests engaging Indigenous people in governance to redesign management strategies and conserve localities.
Michigan State University scientists are breeding heat-resistant tepary beans to address global food security concerns. By leveraging the genetics of the tepary bean, researchers aim to create beans that can thrive in challenging climates and provide essential nutrients for vulnerable populations.
Researchers developed three scenarios to achieve Indonesia's CPO productivity target of 60 M t by 2035. The business-as-usual scenario requires significant land expansion, while the other two intensification scenarios focus on increasing existing productivity and targeted expansion to avoid high-C peatlands.
A recent study led by NSU researcher sequenced the leopard genome, showing distinct genetic patterns between African and Asian populations. The analysis suggests that all African leopards should be considered a single subspecies due to abundant gene flow across Africa.
Researchers have discovered a way to date fluid-bearing diamonds, revealing three distinct periods of diamond formation spanning over 2 billion years. The study provides insights into the evolution of the deep earth and continents, with potential implications for our understanding of planetary history.
Great reed warblers migrate at high altitudes during day to avoid heat, contradicting typical nocturnal behavior. Researchers tracked birds using data loggers, finding they flew up to 5400 meters at dawn.
The Novavax Covid-19 vaccine demonstrated an overall efficacy of 49% in the initial analysis and 60% among healthy adults without HIV, providing protection against mild disease caused by the B.1.351 variant prevalent in South Africa. The updated analysis showed 100% protection against severe Covid-19 due to the B.1.351 variant.
Most human origins stories are incompatible with the fossils found today, according to a new review that argues for the importance of fossil apes in understanding human evolution. The study examines the major discoveries in hominin origins since Darwin's time and finds that relying on living apes alone is insufficient.
A team of researchers from CNRS has uncovered the earliest human burial site in Africa, dated to approximately 78,000 years ago. The discovery at Panga ya Saidi in Kenya reveals a complex funerary treatment involving a shroud and potential ritual participation from the child's community.
Researchers have uncovered the oldest known human burial in Africa, dating back to 78,000 years ago. The discovery, made at Panga ya Saidi cave site in Kenya, reveals evidence of an intentional burial and suggests that Homo sapiens practiced mortuary rites similar to those of Neanderthals.
A study by researchers from the University of Leeds and colleagues found that 80% of community water supply systems in Ghana, Mali, and Niger had at least one lead-containing component. Sixty percent of tested water samples contained lead, with nine percent exceeding World Health Organisation guidelines.
Child vaccination rates in Africa are significantly lower where people distrust local and national authorities. A study of 167,000 children across 22 African countries found that mistrust in courts, parliament, and government can lead to a 11% increase in unvaccinated children.
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Wilson Majee found that rural youth who lack access to education are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse. The study suggests that a combination of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of resources, can create feelings of hopelessness and desp...
A new study predicts that ignoring climate change will lead to life-threatening heatwaves in the region, with temperatures reaching up to 56 degrees Celsius and affecting 600 million people. The research team recommends immediate climate change mitigation measures to avoid such extreme events.
The ANTICOV study is testing a new potential treatment that combines nitazoxanide and ciclesonide to treat people with mild-to-moderate COVID-19. The trial aims to identify early treatments that can prevent progression to severe disease and potentially limit transmission.
African waters contribute to global fish supply, generating $15 billion for Africa's GDP in 2011. However, climate change and pollution threaten fish stocks, raising concerns about sustainability. A new study uses AIS satellite data to describe spatial characteristics of African and foreign industrial fishing activities.
Researchers mapped forest composition and vulnerability in Central Africa, finding some areas more sensitive to climate change than others. The study suggests that preserving diversity of forest types is essential for sustainable management policies and fighting against climate change.
A new study on the Little Foot fossil suggests that early human ancestors used their arms to bear substantial weight while climbing trees. The research, published in the Journal of Human Evolution, analyzed the upper body of the 3.67 million-year-old Australopithecus individual and found evidence of apelike characteristics.
A recent study has found that South-Eastern Bantu-speaking groups are genetically diverse, with distinct languages and histories, and cannot be treated as a single entity in disease research. This discovery may lead to more accurate genetic analysis and better understanding of complex diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
A study analyzing 588 fossil land vertebrate specimens from the Karoo Basin, South Africa, found high extinction rates initially co-occurred with low origination rates. The ancient mammal relative Lystrosaurus experienced population peaks both before and after the end-Permian extinction event.
A new study classifies different types of wildlife traffickers and sellers in Brazzaville and Pointe Noire, Republic of Congo. The findings help conservation and law enforcement authorities prioritize efforts on professional criminals and identify patterns among repeat offenders.
Researchers at Goethe University and University of Bristol discovered beeswax residues in 3500 year-old Nok culture pottery, revealing the oldest direct evidence of honey collecting in Africa. The analysis of chemical compounds in potsherds sheds new light on the diet and daily life of prehistoric people.
A new study reveals that intestinal worm infections can change vaginal immunity and increase the likelihood of Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection. The research found that targeting eosinophils can prevent this pathology, suggesting a potential solution to reduce STI severity.
Scientists have discovered ancient honey hunting in prehistoric West Africa using chemical analysis of pottery fragments. The study found that around one-third of the pottery vessels used by the ancient Nok people were used to process or store beeswax, indicating a significant role of honey in their diet.
Research shows Eurasian Blackcaps, a widespread warbler species, are adapting to changing climate by reversing their migration patterns to spend winters in British Isles backyard gardens. These birds have a steady food supply and better body condition, allowing them to move less and avoid predators more effectively.
A study by PRICELESS-SA found a 51% reduction in sugar, 52% reduction in calories, and 29% reduction in volume of taxed beverages. The tax led to changes in consumer behavior, with lower-income households experiencing larger reductions in purchases.
A new study found that modern human-like brains evolved comparatively late in the genus Homo and after their first African dispersal. The research analyzed fossilized skulls to discover that early humans retained primitive brain organization until later innovations allowed for unique behaviors and abilities.
The modern human brain is believed to have originated in Africa around 1.7 million years ago, with significant advancements in brain structure and function occurring during this time frame. The study used CT scans to analyze fossil skulls and compared them to those of great apes and humans.
A new study found COVID-19 restrictions significantly impacted bean production, threatening to reverse gains made in achieving no poverty and zero hunger. The pandemic exacerbated existing insecurities in food systems, with poor communities particularly affected by border closures, lockdowns, and reduced access to inputs and finance.
Seven African organizations have received funding for innovative COVID-19 data projects from the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, GovLab, and AFD. The projects aim to address social, economic, and health challenges in Africa through new collaborations with non-traditional datasets.
Global Africa aims to report on various issues in Africa and worldwide, fostering international-level evaluation standards. The journal's launch is part of a program that includes training courses, pop-up seminars, and conferences to cultivate African research production and dissemination ecosystem.
African elephants could occupy a fraction of their potential range if protected from human pressure, with 62% of Africa suitable for their survival. The study found that elephants have great potential for recovery into areas where the human footprint is light.
A recent review of over 10,000 medical records from four African countries has shed light on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes, as well as the frequency of various complications. The study's findings will help determine the safety of PrEP and dapivirine ring for HIV prevention in pregnant women.
The UK and South Africa coronavirus variants are more contagious and deadly than the original virus due to mutations in their spike protein. The Frontera supercomputer aided in building infection models of these variants.
Urban populations across Africa are forecasted to triple by 2050, resulting in significant environmental changes. Including local community voices in early planning stages can help reduce the impact of climate-related events and promote more inclusive urban climate policies.