Science and research news from Africa. Covers Congo Basin wildlife, maternity care, malaria resurgence, and drug-resistant parasites.
A new study published in Nature Geoscience suggests that the Eastern branch of the East African Rift system is approximately 25-30 million years old, nearly doubling its previously estimated age. This discovery has important implications for understanding climate change models, faunal evolution, and the development of Africa's unique l...
A new study published in Malaria Journal found that malaria prevention measures saved 850,000 child deaths in Africa between 2001 and 2010. The Lives Saved Tool model used by researchers estimated the impact of interventions such as insecticide-treated mosquito nets and pregnant women's malaria prevention.
The BRICS nations are injecting new resources and momentum into global health efforts, challenging traditional donor approaches with innovative models of cooperation. The GHSi report highlights the significant contributions of BRICS countries to multilateral health initiatives and their emphasis on South-South partnership.
A recent genetic study has found evidence of prehistoric gene flow between Africa and Europe, dating back to 11,000 years ago. The research suggests that more than 35% of sub-Saharan African lineages arrived in Europe during this time period, likely via coastal routes.
Researchers have redefined the timing of the Great Rift Valley's formation in Africa, suggesting it occurred around 25 million years ago. This new evidence has significant implications for understanding climate change models and animal evolution.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation grants Aeras up to $220 million to develop safe and effective TB vaccines amid rising drug-resistant strains. The funding aims to accelerate global efforts to eliminate the airborne threat.
A new assessment reveals large areas in Europe and Africa with insufficient freshwater resources, exacerbating water scarcity issues. The report emphasizes the need for improved water management and forecasting to address future challenges.
Women farmers produce a lower yield on their crops than male farmers by an average of 25 percent. A recent report shows differences in yield in the same household, with female farmers facing restrictions on access to labor and basic farm inputs.
Tropical Storm Irina is making a unique cyclonic loop in the Mozambique Channel, driven by weather systems pushing it in different directions. NASA satellites have been tracking rainfall and cloud top temperatures, showing heavy rainfall and strong thunderstorms in the southern half of the storm.
A Purdue University study reveals that hermetic grain storage bags work by depriving weevils of water through metabolic processes, not just oxygen deprivation. The bags' effectiveness in reducing insect infestations has saved West and Central African farmers hundreds of millions of dollars.
Experts discuss ways to modernize livestock production in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on technology implementation and high-quality veterinary services. The session aims to improve animal welfare, increase protein quality, and address food security challenges.
African scientists are being enabled to partner on new research programs focusing on animal and crop health, with the goal of improving productivity under challenges like diseases and abiotic stresses. The BecA-ILRI Hub has set up a capacity building fund called the Africa Biosciences Challenge Fund (ABCF) for African scientists.
Linguist Michael Cysouw disputes Quentin Atkinson's claim that the cradle of language is in southwest Africa, citing inconsistent results from comparative linguistics analysis. The study's findings suggest the site of language origin may be located in eastern Africa or the Caucasus, rather than supporting an 'Out-of-Africa' model.
Research suggests that men in sub-Saharan Africa receive fewer HIV services, leading to worse health outcomes. Efforts to engage men in HIV prevention and care are crucial to addressing these disparities and ensuring a more balanced approach to gender in the fight against AIDS.
A new study by Stanford researchers found that decreasing the time spent walking to fetch clean water can help reduce under-five mortality rates and prevent nutrition-depleting diarrhea. Cutting walking time by just 15 minutes can lead to an 11% reduction in child mortality and a 41% decrease in diarrhea prevalence.
New research published in The Lancet reveals that malaria kills an estimated 1.2 million people globally each year, nearly twice as many as previously thought. Most malaria deaths occur in children over 5 years old, but the study also shows a significant number of deaths among adults in Africa and other parts of the world.
Researchers analyzed genetic data to find clues about human migration over 60,000 years ago. They found evidence for an ancient ancestry within Arabia, suggesting it was the first staging-post in the spread of modern humans around the world.
A new study sheds light on the earliest stages of human migration, suggesting that modern humans first settled in Arabia on their way out of Africa. Genetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA genomes provides evidence for an ancient ancestry within Arabia.
A 190-million-year-old dinosaur nesting site has been found in South Africa, providing significant insights into the evolution of reproductive behavior in early dinosaurs. The discovery includes clutches of eggs, embryos, and tiny footprints, shedding light on the complex behaviors of these ancient creatures.
A large regional hospital in Ghana saw a 34% reduction in maternal mortality and a 36% reduction in stillbirth after QI initiatives were put into place. The study highlights the importance of leadership, staff morale, training, patient flow, and basic equipment in improving healthcare standards.
A study published in The Lancet shows that a single dose of oral azithromycin is non-inferior to injectable penicillin for treating yaws disease, avoiding equipment and medically trained personnel needs. This finding supports the potential elimination of neglected tropical disease through mass drug administration programs.
A new snake species, Matilda's horned viper, has been discovered in a remote area of Tanzania with unique horn-like scales above its eyes. The species is estimated to have only a few square miles of habitat and is expected to be classified as critically endangered due to severe degradation from logging and charcoal manufacture.
Climate change and global trade are expected to increase demand for drought-tolerant plants from Africa and the Middle East, increasing the risk of new invasive species. Ecologists recommend proactive management practices, including pre-emptive screening of nursery stock before imports.
A new study published in Journal of Arid Environments found that climate change is causing widespread tree mortality and species loss in the Sahel region of Africa, with one in six trees dying between 1954 and 2002.
A comprehensive supply chain map reveals challenges in accessing anti-malarial drugs in Africa due to economic, political and infrastructural barriers. Local transport options like donkey carts and bicycles should be considered for rural areas.
A team of archaeologists has discovered 77,000-year-old evidence of preserved plant bedding and the use of insect-repelling plants at Sibudu rock shelter in South Africa. The oldest plant remains date back to 77,000 years ago and include species with medicinal properties.
The EUROTAST project brings together young researchers to study the transatlantic slave trade's history and impact. The four-year project will explore captives' origins in Africa and physical quality of life, with a focus on interdisciplinary research and public dissemination.
Archaeologists have discovered Nubian Middle Stone Age tools in Oman, challenging long-held assumptions about the timing and route of early human expansion. The findings suggest that humans entered Arabia by 106,000 years ago, contradicting genetic estimates of 70,000 to 40,000 years ago.
The scale-up of voluntary medical male circumcision is a cost-effective way to prevent HIV in eastern and southern Africa. The initiative aims to achieve 80% coverage of VMMC services in 14 priority countries, resulting in net savings of $16.5 billion between 2011 and 2025.
Climate change is expected to alter water flows in major river basins in Africa, posing a new challenge to food production and cross-border water conflicts. The Limpopo Basin, Nile Basin, and Volta Basin are particularly vulnerable to changes in temperature and rainfall patterns.
Shanchol, a new oral cholera vaccine developed by IVI, has been prequalified by the World Health Organization for use in developing countries. The vaccine is ready to be used in large-scale immunization programs and has been shown to be safe and protective against cholera for three years.
Studies explore Ligurian accretionary complex evolution and Andean thrusting, shedding light on continental margin dynamics. Cosmogenic isotope analysis reveals insights into the geological history of Wonderwerk Cave and Redoubt Volcano.
Extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) poses a significant threat globally, with over half a million cases of multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB) and 25,000 to 50,000 XDR-TB cases. Sanatoria were used to isolate patients, but their dismantling led to the current crisis. The Lancet calls for new-age sanatoria to provide state-of-...
A new audit report reveals a growing problem of osteoporosis in the Middle East and Africa, with predicted major increases in fractures and significant socioeconomic impact. Widespread vitamin D deficiency and low calcium intake contribute to the issue.
Six young investigators from the Middle East received prestigious grants for their top-ranking research abstracts presented at the IOF Regionals – 1st Middle-East & Africa Osteoporosis Meeting. The awards aim to encourage bone research among young researchers worldwide.
A new insurance program is providing compensation to poor herders in northern Kenya's Marsabit District, who have lost up to a third of their animals due to drought. The program uses satellite images to track forage conditions and payouts are triggered when grazing lands deteriorate beyond 15 percent loss.
William M. Tierney, Regenstrief Institute president and Indiana University School of Medicine associate dean, will receive the AMIA Morris F. Collen Award for his efforts to advance biomedical and health informatics. He has implemented and studied electronic health record systems globally, including in Africa.
A predictive model of polio outbreaks in Africa was developed using outbreak data from 2003-2010. The model indicates that continued transmission in Nigeria and other countries, as well as poor immunization status, are the main causes of polio outbreaks in Africa.
Fertilizer trees have been adopted by hundreds of thousands of smallholder farmers in Southern Africa, resulting in doubling of maize yields and significant increases in incomes and food security. The trees' natural ability to draw nitrogen from the air improves water efficiency and reduces soil erosion.
A study in The Gambia found that vaccinating young children reduced carriage of pneumococcus not only in vaccinated children but also in older children and adults. The vaccine also showed no increase in non-vaccine serotype pneumococci carriage after two years.
A review of studies published in The Lancet reveals that investing in mental health interventions can improve economic status. The research highlights the need for integrated mental health services as a key strategy for addressing poverty and promoting human development.
A new study documents the rapid adoption of fertilizer trees by smallholder farmers in southern Africa, leading to significant increases in maize yields and incomes. The approach has improved water efficiency and reduced soil erosion, offering a potential solution to food crises on the continent.
Archaeologists have discovered a 100,000-year-old ochre toolkit and workshop at Blombos Cave in South Africa. The findings suggest that early humans had the conceptual ability to source, combine, and store substances for social practices, demonstrating an elementary knowledge of chemistry.
Researchers found that meerkats can distinguish between individual calls in their species, contrary to previous assumptions. Meerkat colonies are highly organized and divide work into three roles, with this vocal recognition ability linked to auditory cues.
A US Department of Agriculture scientist has developed a partnership with South African colleagues to improve cattle breeding, benefiting breeders worldwide. The research focuses on the Nguni breed, which is popular among poor farmers due to its fertility and tolerance to harsh conditions.
Research from the New Dynamics of Ageing Programme found that average wellbeing levels among older people in South Africa and Brazil improved between 2002 and 2008 due to economic growth and social policies. Economic performance, labour market conditions, and pension income were key factors influencing improvement in wellbeing.
The Journal of Visualized Experiments (JoVE) is now offering free subscriptions to developing countries through the HINARI initiative. This move aims to address information inequality by providing access to visual content, including over 1,300 video-protocols on experimental approaches in various fields.
By 2018, an estimated 2.3 billion people worldwide will experience at least one lower urinary tract symptom, with increases expected in Africa, Asia, and South America. The study highlights the urgent need for public awareness, prevention, diagnosis, and management of these conditions to tackle the growing burden.
Scientists have found a new family of wasps in North American amber, which are closely related to families found in South America and southern Africa. The discovery sheds light on the origins of stinging wasps and their distribution patterns.
A new combination therapy for kala azar has been developed, reducing treatment time from 30 days to 17 days and decreasing costs. However, without international funding, too few patients will benefit from this new treatment.
The African Orphan Crops consortium will work with African scientists to identify and breed nutrient-rich food crops, addressing malnutrition and food shortages. The $40 million initiative will also establish the African Plant Breeding Academy in Ghana, training local plant breeders to adopt advanced breeding approaches.
Researchers analyzed genomes from East Asian, European, and African populations to discover the San people diverged from other humans 130,000 years ago. This finding contradicts previous estimates, providing a richer understanding of human evolution.
Researchers analyzed CT scans of fossil skull fragments from five Australopithecus species and found distinct internal structures in the anterior pillars. This suggests different evolutionary pathways for different species, contradicting previous theories on shared ancestry.
Breast and cervical cancer cases are rising globally, with more women dying at younger ages in developing countries. The study reveals stark differences in trends between high- and low-income countries, highlighting the need for increased cancer screening and treatment programs in poor nations.
Researchers describe the earliest complete fossil hominin hand post-dating stone tools, Australopithecus sediba's hand. The study reveals that it used its hand for arboreal locomotion but also showed human-like precision grips, a prerequisite for tool-making.
Australopithecus sediba fossils display both primitive and human-like traits, challenging long-standing theories about human evolution. The discovery of well-preserved hand and foot bones provides insights into the species' tool-making abilities.
The Einstein College of Medicine consortium aims to collect and analyze data on nearly 40,000 patients with antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Burundi, Cameroon, and Rwanda. The project will help improve the care and lives of residents by providing a robust database for researchers to examine the real-world practice and results of ART.
The essays argue that 9/11 did not bring about a new world order but rather built upon existing structures and power dynamics. The real significance lies in the connections between people and places, past and present.
A new grant-funded project from the University of Copenhagen aims to investigate how Kenya's handling of natural resources contributes to instability in the country. The researchers will focus on the Mau Forest, a region affected by violent conflicts over resource access.
Researchers discovered genetic material from extinct archaic humans, including Denisovans, contributing to present-day African populations. The study suggests that contemporary Africans contain about 2 percent of archaic DNA, which may hold beneficial genes for human physiology and disease resistance.