Science and research news from Africa. Covers Congo Basin wildlife, maternity care, malaria resurgence, and drug-resistant parasites.
Researchers discovered two fossils of Graecopithecus freybergi with fused premolar roots, characteristic of modern humans and early humans, indicating a European origin for the pre-human lineage. The study also suggests that environmental changes, such as the formation of the Sahara desert, drove the evolution of pre-humans.
Conservation assessments for endemic earthworm species in KwaZulu-Natal Province are hindered by lack of common names. Assigning English names facilitates inclusion in environmental impact assessments, highlighting the importance of biodiversity preservation.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that undiagnosed Ebola virus infection was probably very rare among international healthcare workers deployed during the 2013-2015 outbreak. Despite asymptomatic cases occurring, no evidence of missed infections was found, but 'near miss' exposure incidents were common, putting frontline wor...
Cases of drug-resistant tuberculosis are expected to rise significantly in India, the Philippines, Russia, and South Africa between 2000 and 2040. The growing epidemic is predicted to be driven by person-to-person transmission, rather than strains acquiring resistance to anti-tuberculosis drugs.
The fossil hominin Homo naledi lived between 335,000 and 236,000 years ago, overlapping with the emergence of modern human behavior in southern Africa. The discovery challenges previous predictions of its age and raises questions about human evolution.
The University of California, Irvine is leading a $2 million effort to cultivate new strains of mosquitoes to fight malaria in Africa. A team of experts will develop and test these insects in the field to disrupt malaria transmission.
Researchers analyzed 548,055 single nucleotide polymorphisms to model Bantu-speaking peoples' migration paths and gene variations. They found that BSPs acquired adaptive genes from other African populations, including immune-related genes, and retained western RHG ancestry in modern African Americans.
A new study by Colorado State University researchers demonstrates a method to quickly detect Zika virus in mosquito populations, informing decision-making on disease-prevention methods. The use of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) allows for easy detection in human and mosquito samples from the US, Brazil, and Nicaragua.
A study led by the University of Bath discovered a distinct dinosaur fauna in Africa at the end of the Cretaceous period. The newly discovered species, Chenanisaurus barbaricus, was found in phosphate deposits in Morocco and is considered one of the last dinosaurs on Earth before its extinction.
A new fossil cichlid discovered in East Africa provides insights into the evolutionary history of the cichlid family. The analysis of its unique 'mosaic-like' set of characters supports the idea that interspecies hybridization played a prominent role in their evolution.
A decade-long surgical outreach program has improved screening and diagnosis, reducing RHD-related deaths by 10% in Rwanda. The program also established a sustainable cardiothoracic care center, training local personnel to improve cardiovascular disease management.
Two new species of African mole-rats were formally described as Fukomys hanangensis and Fukomys livingstoni. Genetic analysis revealed two distinct evolutionary lineages that suggest geological and volcanic activity isolated these populations in East Africa.
The University of California, Irvine has received a $9.6 million grant to conduct malaria control research in sub-Saharan Africa. The project aims to assess the impact of environmental changes on malaria epidemiology and transmission.
The Amazonian Center of Excellence for Malaria Research, led by UC San Diego's Joseph Vinetz, MD, will receive a $8.3 million NIH grant over seven years to tackle malaria in endemic regions. The research aims to develop new antimalarial compounds and improve therapy options.
A comprehensive study on the bones of Homo floresiensis has found that they most likely evolved from an African ancestor and share a common ancestor with Homo habilis. The findings contradict the popular theory that Homo floresiensis evolved from Homo erectus.
The NIH has awarded $9 million to seven international centers focused on malaria research, aiming to understand complex interactions between human hosts and mosquito vectors. The 7-year awards will support vital research to control, eliminate, and eventually eradicate malaria, a global health threat that claims millions of lives annually.
A five-year, $13 million partnership between MSU and MasterCard Foundation will provide employment opportunities to 15,000 young people in Tanzania and Nigeria's horticulture, aquaculture, and agrifood sectors. The program aims for gender equity, addressing constraints affecting youth entrepreneurship and job creation.
Cholera cases in East Africa increase by roughly 50,000 during El Niño years due to increased rainfall and vulnerable water systems. This research can help health ministries anticipate future cholera surges and save lives.
African forests, which feed and provide subsistence means to at least 100 million people, are being cleared at a rate of over 10% by 2025 due to expanding agricultural production. The study recommends policies that prioritize forest conservation and local control of land to mitigate deforestation.
Researchers discovered that the herpes virus family evolved independently but also showed signs of recombination with HSV-1, which occurred between 34,000-95,000 years ago. This challenges previous theories on human migration and origins of STDs.
A new assessment by the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory finds that wind and solar resources in Africa are plentiful, low-impact, and cost-effective. The research highlights the importance of strategic siting and grid interconnections to reduce system costs and impacts.
The study suggests that choosing wind sites to match electricity demand reduces system costs and enhances equitable distribution of renewable energy. Countries can save hundreds of millions to billions of dollars per year by pursuing low-cost, accessible, and environmentally friendly solar and wind farms.
Researchers from Swansea University developed bespoke collars with accelerometers to track baboon behavior. The new technology allowed for precise tracking of the baboons' movements and behaviors, revealing over 90% recognition of individual behaviors without direct observation.
Scientists from WCS have discovered a new species of wild ginger, Aframomum ngamikkense, in the Kabobo Massif, one of Africa's most biodiverse sites. The discovery underscores the importance of conservation efforts for this region, which has already yielded eight endemic species.
African cattle breeds have developed genetic adaptations to cope with varying environments, which will inform breeding programs to improve productivity and resilience. The '10,000 Livestock Genome Project' aims to catalogue all domestic livestock breeds to preserve diversity before it disappears forever.
More than one third of girls marry before reaching their 18th birthday in half of the 31 countries studied, posing health risks and controlling issues.
A new study suggests that investing in agriculture can improve food production and regional productivity, but also risks expanding agricultural land into natural forests. The region's future development will have profound implications for millions of people.
A new study from Lancaster University finds that infertility is strongly linked to an increased risk of relationship disruption in Ghana. Women with infertility are more likely to experience relationship breakdown, particularly those in polygynous relationships.
Researchers have created a polymer nanogel material that can halt the spread of venom from various species of snakes, including cobras, kraits, and pit vipers. The new treatment has broad-spectrum ability and is made with readily available components, making it more affordable and accessible.
A recent study found that 90% of village communities in tropical regions have reported declining availability of forest resources, including timber and firewood. The researchers attribute this decline to excessive consumption and clearance by large companies and local populations.
A study found that infants with a genetic polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene are more susceptible to a psychosocial intervention promoting maternal-infant attachment. The probability of secure attachment was significantly higher in those with the short allele of the serotonin transporter gene, compared to controls.
A new species of parasitic wasp, Poropoea africana, has been found in the eggs of leaf-rolling weevils in northeastern Gabon. The wasp measures less than 2mm and has unique physical characteristics that distinguish it from related species.
A new report led by Panthera suggests that Africa's protected parks and reserves can conserve up to 83,000 wild lions if well funded and managed. The study found that less than one third of the parks examined are currently conserving lions at more than 50% of their carrying capacity.
A new study led by Duke University finds that over 25,000 elephants were killed for their ivory between 2004 and 2014 in Gabon's protected area. The loss of forest elephants has significant implications for the preservation of the species.
The study found that Central Africa's forest elephant population has dropped by over 80% in a decade, mainly due to illegal poaching. The researchers emphasize the need to reduce demand for ivory and recognize forest elephants as a distinct species to save them from extinction.
The NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captured a night-time image of the ex-tropical cyclone, showing it had become elongated as it weakened. The storm is expected to continue weakening as it tracks further inland on February 16, bringing heavy rain and localized flooding to parts of South Africa.
A fossilized skull of Euchambersia revealed the first evidence of an ancient venomous vertebrate. The reptile's unique anatomy allowed its venom to flow directly into its mouth and prey through specialized teeth. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of venom in mammals.
Researchers developed a model to predict the impact of vaccine campaigns on invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella disease in young children in Mali. The study found that a two-dose schedule with booster would prevent 73% of iNTS cases and 43% of deaths.
A new study has determined that the first Paleoproterozoic global glaciation and significant step change in atmospheric oxygenation occurred between 2,460 and 2,426 million years ago. The rise of atmospheric oxygen was characterized by significant oscillations before irreversible oxygenation of the atmosphere 2,250 million years ago.
The International Potato Center launched an online mobile-accessible Pest Risk Atlas for Africa to assess potential pest risks under current and future climate conditions. The atlas provides detailed information for pest risk analysis, including detection and identification, means of movement and dispersal, and phytosanitary measures.
A new study found that 28 of South Africa's 57 forest-dwelling bird species are declining in range, while 22 species are increasing. The data from the Southern African Bird Atlas Project indicates a link between deforestation and habitat loss, with smaller bird species more vulnerable to extinction.
Pandor has been recognized for her efforts to integrate science into policymaking, promote young scientists, and foster international cooperation. She has also expanded research chairs and initiated the Science Forum South Africa.
A Martian meteorite provides clues to the evolution of Mars, with evidence suggesting that some of the longest-lived volcanoes in the solar system are located on the Red Planet. The research offers new insights into the history of volcanic activity on Mars and confirms at least 2 billion years of volcanic activity.
Researchers at Wits University have discovered that puff adders use a unique strategy called 'lingual luring' to attract and catch amphibian prey. By extending their tongues for up to 30 seconds, puff adders increase the odds of catching their prey within striking range.
Scientists have discovered ancient zircons on the island of Mauritius, dating back 3 billion years, suggesting a long-lost continent named Mauritia existed beneath the island. This finding supports the theory that the break-up of supercontinent Gondwana led to the formation of the Indian Ocean.
A recent Indiana University study found that older adults in Africa are sexually active and report high-risk behaviors, highlighting the need for targeted HIV prevention measures. The study reveals that older adults are a significant proportion of people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, where most HIV cases occur.
A team of anthropologists has uncovered a 38,000-year-old engraved image in a French rockshelter, revealing insights into the nature of modern humans during this period. The discovery provides new information on regional patterning of art and ornamentation across Europe during the Aurignacian culture.
Researchers from the University of Granada have reconstructed the Gibraltar Arc's movement 9 million years ago, revealing clockwise and counterclockwise rotations of large land blocks. The study reconciles contradictory data on the region's tectonic history.
The Danforth Center is expanding its research program to optimize breeding strategies for grain sorghum, a critical source of nutrition for millions in Sub-Saharan Africa. The grant will support the development and deployment of advanced phenotyping and breeding technologies.
Researchers analyzed DNA sequences from 169 house shrews to uncover their genetic origins and migration routes. The study suggests that people traded on a larger scale than previously thought, with species from Asia and Africa showing similar genetic traits despite geographical distance.
A University of Illinois study found that about one-third of rural farmers across five African countries have trees on their farms, contributing 17% to their annual household income. Trees can act as biodiversity corridors, linking forests and providing wildlife habitat, while also offering income potential to poor farmers.
A team of experts reviewed post-Ebola reports to identify key problems and recommendations for reform. They found significant gaps between proposed changes and actual action, particularly in strengthening compliance with International Health Regulations.
A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR TB) is spread through person-to-person contact in the KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. This epidemic highlights the need for effective infection control and treatment measures to prevent further spread.
The study provides an expanded framework for researchers to study human origins, drawing upon extensive DNA sampling from modern and archaic hominid populations. It suggests a major eastern-western population split once modern humans left Africa, dating back to at least 45,000 years ago.
A new study reveals that IMF lending conditions in West Africa reduce government health expenditure per capita by around 0.25% for every additional binding condition. This results in a 6.2% annual reduction in health spending, often at the expense of healthcare investment.
A 280 million-year-old fossilized skull reveals the origin of chimaeras, a group of cartilaginous fish related to sharks. The discovery provides crucial evidence for the evolutionary history of these deep-water dwelling fish.
Researchers studied data from Lake Malawi to confirm that rifting has occurred slowly over the past 1.3 million years, utilizing a series of faults millions of years older. The team's findings provide a unified geologic framework for exploring the East African Rift system and shed light on other continental rift systems.
A genetic library of cowpea varieties is being developed to improve crop resilience and yield. The library, which contains 6,000 samples, will help crop scientists make informed decisions using genetic information.
A Rift Valley fever outbreak has been reported in Niger, with 64 human cases and 23 deaths confirmed. Umeå University's Osama Ahmed Hassan joined a UN expert mission to develop action plans to curb the spread of the disease. The mission aimed to implement short-, mid- and long-term strategies to prevent further outbreaks.
The VIRCA Plus consortium aims to improve agricultural productivity and enhance nutrition for smallholder households in East and West Africa by developing disease-resistant and nutritionally-enhanced cassava varieties. The project will address challenges such as plant viral diseases, which can destroy up to 100% of a cassava crop yield.