by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | africa, international aid, international news, news, world
The leader of the UNAIDS program has stated that millions additional deaths may occur due to the abrupt funding reductions implemented by the Trump administration. She further cautioned that the AIDS crisis might revert to the severity observed during the 1990s.
The leader of the UN’s HIV/AIDS initiative, UNAIDS, stated on Monday that cutting funds by the U.S. could result in more than 6 million extra fatalities related to the illness.
The UNAIDS Executive Director, Winnie Byanyima, stated that the
abrupt changes from the U.S.
, which had previously been the largest contributor to the program, was described as “devastating.”
She told reporters in Geneva that you’re discussing the potential loss of progress achieved over the past 25 years, which is quite grave.
More than 6 million extra AIDS-related fatalities
If U.S. assistance is not reinstated and not supplemented by alternative financing—and we haven’t received word from other nations committing to bridge the shortfall—there
would result in another 6.3 million additional AIDS-related fatalities.
— over the coming four years,” ByanyIMA stated.
She noted that approximately 600,000 deaths related to AIDS were documented worldwide as of the latest figures in 2023.
Byanyanya additionally mentioned that an extra 8.7 million new infections were anticipated.
The head of UNAIDS stated that beyond the immediate future, unless the funding shortfall is addressed, the AIDS epidemic might revert to the severity observed during the 1990s.
“However, this concentration isn’t limited to the low-income African nations where it currently stands prominent; it’s also rising among so-called key populations across Eastern Europe and Latin America,” she stated.
There will be a significant increase in cases of this illness. It will return, and we will witness fatalities similar to those seen during the ‘90s and early 2000s.
![]()
The head of UNAIDS urges the U.S. to reassess abrupt funding reductions.
US President Donald Trump, along with his prominent supporter billionaire Elon Musk, has supervised substantial reductions in federal expenditures, particularly in the realm of US international assistance.
The choice to reduce financial support for the battle against AIDS has
ignited demonstrations domestically
and
abroad
.
Byanyima adopted an empathetic stance, simultaneously urging the White House to reassess its choice.
“It makes sense for the U.S. to aim at decreasing its financial contribution gradually, however, abruptly halting essential aid is causing severe consequences,” she stated.
We strongly advocate for a reassessment and swift reinstatement of essential services, particularly those critical for saving lives.
Edited by: Jenipher Camino Gonzalez
Author: Alex Berry (compiled with AFP, Reuters)
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | health, healthcare and medicine, illness, infectious diseases, news
…Commits an additional one billion naira
ABUJA
— The First Lady of Nigeria and Senator Oluremi Tinubu has raised an alert about the country’s tuberculosis (TB) emergency, stating that someone succumbs to TB every seven minutes, even though the illness can be both prevented and treated.
At the World TB Day 2025 Community Outreach event held in Sauka village on Monday in Abuja, Tinubu referred to the circumstances as a national crisis demanding immediate and firm measures to preserve life.
“In the brief period we’ve been here, numerous additional lives could be lost unless we take immediate and firm action,” she cautioned, referencing startling data provided by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Even though there have been global improvements in treating tuberculosis, Nigeria continues to be among the eight nations with the highest incidence of the disease globally. Tinubu expressed concern that numerous Nigerians still endure silently because of stigma, insufficient knowledge, and procrastination in getting medical help.
“It is intolerable that numerous men and women keep losing their lives to a condition that can be prevented and treated,” she said.
As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aims to increase tuberculosis testing and treatment facilities throughout Nigeria, ensuring that free and readily available care is provided to those who require it.
She praised Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, for his dedication to eliminating tuberculosis via enhanced diagnostic methods, treatment plans, and preventive measures.
The First Lady additionally highlighted that the government cannot conquer the battle against TB single-handedly, urging traditional chiefs, religious figures, young organizations, businesses, and global allies to aid in raising public consciousness and promoting prompt diagnosis.
Tinubu pledged ₦1 billion via her Renewed Hope Initiative aimed at bolstering tuberculosis control initiatives and enhancing medical infrastructure in underprivileged areas.
Moreover, she verified that the Minister of State for Health has sanctioned the creation of a primary healthcare facility within the community, thereby enhancing accessibility to TB diagnostics and treatments.
Promoting personal accountability for health among residents, Tinubu highlighted the significance of timely diagnosis and care.
“If your cough lasts for over two weeks, don’t dismiss it; get medical assistance right away,” she emphasized.
She made a commitment to push for more funds, gather necessary resources, and combat stigmas so that women, children, and underrepresented communities can receive equitable TB treatment.
As Nigeria aims for its 2030 target of eliminating TB, Tinubu’s stance stays firm: “Each life is significant. We have to take action immediately to halt this stealthy threat.”
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, indicated that the federal government has stepped up its initiatives to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) by 2030. This includes upgrading more than 10,000 primary healthcare centers (PHCs) and training 120,000 healthcare personnel.
Salako reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dedication to making sure Nigeria plays a significant role in the worldwide effort against tuberculosis. He highlighted that the administration is broadening TB screening, diagnostic capabilities, and treatment options within both public and private medical centers as part of the universal health coverage initiative. Furthermore, the government aims to boost community involvement and offer improved social support for individuals affected by TB and their households to lessen the impact of the illness.
Salako expressed his appreciation for the dedicated healthcare professionals who continue to serve diligently amidst Nigeria’s economic difficulties, encouraging citizens to acknowledge their significant contribution in fighting tuberculosis. He further lauded Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady, for her substantial financial backing and efforts in raising awareness, noting how these have been instrumental in motivating people across the nation to get diagnosed promptly and follow through with treatments. “Tuberculosis is neither an inevitable fate nor terminal—it can be prevented and cured,” he emphasized, offering reassurance to those impacted by the illness that the federal government stands steadfastly behind them, ensuring they receive all required medical care and assistance.
Previously, Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, the Chairperson of the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, advocated for enhanced local financial support to fight tuberculosis (TB) in Nigeria, highlighting that international funds are dwindling. Through Hon. Dominic Okafo, he stressed the importance of securing additional resources as vital for addressing TB effectively within the nation. He disclosed that the House of Representatives has encouraged the private sector to establish a dedicated TB fund akin to those created for HIV and malaria, aiming at long-term sustainability. Additionally, he praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for committing an extraordinary ₦700 billion towards improving Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, indicating that this step signifies the country’s capacity to address public health issues independently from substantial external assistance.
Ogah likewise denounced the stigmatization and discrimination faced by individuals with tuberculosis, stating that the House Committee would shortly enact legislation to ban such practices. He emphasized the importance of expandingTB screening programs, enhancing training for health care providers, and launching more effective public awareness campaigns to underscore that TB is both preventable and treatable. “To eradicate TB by 2030, we have to make commitments, allocate resources, and take action,” he asserted, calling upon all parties involved—including businesses and non-governmental organizations—to step up their contributions towards combating TB.
Dr. Austin Arinze Obiefuna, the Board Vice Chair of the Global Stop TB Partnership in Geneva, highlighted that Nigeria is taking the lead globally in combating tuberculosis (TB). This leadership stems from robust commitments, targeted financial investments, and successful implementation of TB intervention programs. He applauded Nigeria’s significant strides in enhancing its healthcare personnel and addressing TB issues, noting that these endeavors place the nation at the forefront within Africa and garner international acclaim.
“Whenever I find myself among the halls of WHO, the United Nations, or the African Union,” stated Dr. Arinze, “I feel pride in witnessing Nigeria’s achievements.” The doctor further lauded Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady, for her steadfast backing and promotion of anti-TB initiatives, encouraging continued governmental and stakeholder involvement to keep up the current positive trajectory. “In Nigeria, actions speak louder than words; they engage local communities effectively and produce tangible outcomes—a key strategy in battling TB,” he concluded.
In his goodwill address, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Representative to Nigeria, voiced worries about significant reductions in international health financing, cautioning that the advancements achieved in combating tuberculosis (TB) might be undone unless prompt financial commitments are secured.
He observed that global tuberculosis initiatives have rescued approximately 79 million lives since the year 2000, yet current funding gaps present a significant danger to maintaining this progress. He warned that interruptions in the fight against TB—such as advancements in sophisticated diagnostic tools, treatments, and vaccine development—are endangered because of economic limitations.
In spite of these difficulties, Dr. Mulombo praised Nigeria’s initiative in addressing tuberculosis, pointing out the contribution of TB testing equipment and ₦1 billion from Senator Oluremi Tinubu via her Renewed Hope Initiative. Additionally, he acknowledged the federal government’s extra funding of ₦700 billion aimed at battling HIV, TB, malaria, and vaccination programs. Furthermore, he welcomed the introduction of a $50 million plan by the private sector designed to hasten TB eradication. “Nigeria isn’t standing idle; Nigeria is acting,” he asserted, encouraging stakeholders such as donors, businesses, academic institutions, media outlets, and community groups to unite their efforts against TB. He restated his organization’s pledge to assist Nigeria in achieving its objective of eliminating TB by 2030 and emphasized the necessity of collaborative endeavors to maintain the advancements made thus far.
In a similar vein, HRH Usman Nga Kupi, the Sapeyi of Garki, advocated for the creation of a health center in Sauka, an overcrowded area within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This new facility should be designed specifically to diagnose and treat tuberculosis (TB). Emphasizing the importance of practical steps alongside educational efforts, he highlighted that investing in healthcare facilities is vital for effectively preventing, diagnosing, and treating TB. “As one of the significant yet underserved areas in the FCT lacking a proper medical facility, establishing a specialized TB center in Sauka could significantly aid in controlling this illness and enhancing general healthcare services,” he remarked. Additionally, he praised Senator Oluremi Tinubu and various donors for their dedication to combating TB, encouraging governmental bodies to turn these pledges into enduring improvements in public health care systems.
Mrs. Daju Kachollom, the Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, was represented by Mr. Akpan who stressed the importance of early detection. He encouraged community members to utilize the provided screening services. “Should you or someone close to you have persistent symptoms like a prolonged cough, unexplained weight loss, fevers, or excessive sweating during nights, kindly seek out these screenings,” he stated.
Kachollom praised Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady, for her consistent efforts in combating tuberculosis (TB). Additionally, she recognized international organizations including the World Health Organization (WHO), The Global Fund, and the Stop TB Partnership for bolstering Nigeria’s approach towards addressing TB challenges. She also urged traditional authorities, local leaderships, and residents to progress from mere acknowledgment to proactive involvement in battling this disease. “Indeed, ending TB is within our reach,” she asserted confidently.
During her welcoming speech, Dr. Queen Ogbuji-Ladipo, the acting board chair of Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, stated that Nigeria continues to have the highest burden of tuberculosis (TB) in both Africa and ranks as the sixth-highest globally, with 499,000 new cases reported in 2023 and an individual succumbing to the disease every seven minutes. Emphasizing the critical necessity for greater financial commitment towards preventing, diagnosing, and treating TB—especially within isolated regions lacking adequate medical facilities—she praised Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the first lady, for rallying backing and donating equipment necessary for TB diagnostics which enhanced screening capabilities, particularly during their recent community engagement activity held in Sauka, Abuja. Additionally, she underscored the introduction of a $50 million private-sector project aimed at tackling this issue, encouraging all parties involved to persistently advocate and fundraise toward eradicating TB from Nigeria completely. “Collectively, we possess the power to defeat TB,” she affirmed confidently.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | news, politics, politics and government, politics and law, public policy
Bengaluru
(
Karnataka
[India], March 24 (ANI): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP),
BJP
) leaders organized an event on Monday
protest
against Deputy Chief Minister
DK Shivakumar
According to his alleged statement
Constitution
.
earlier in the day, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat criticized individuals who, as he put it, had formerly pledged to safeguard the
Constitution
, blaming them for exploiting it solely as a political instrument.
In discussions with ANI, Shekhawat remarked, “Individuals who were wandering about carrying
Constitution
And pledging to defend it, their identity and appearance have been revealed once more. Those who consistently disregarded the
Constitution
in line with their preferences, they have once more revealed their character and showcased it to the nation’s populace… For them, this has been
Constitution
was merely a strategy to secure victory in the elections.”
This comes after
DK Shivakumar
On Sunday, during an event, they discussed the legislation that introduced a four percent quota for minority groups and other backward classes in public contracts within the state. It was claimed that he said, “
Constitution
will be changing.
A commotion broke out within a few minutes of the proceedings in the Rajya Sabha.
Karnataka
Deputy Chief Minister
DK Shivakumar
as mentioned in his reported comments regarding “altering the
Constitution
“.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju asked the Leader of Opposition, Mallikarjun Kharge, to explain the Congress party’s stance on reservations for Muslims. In response, the head of the Congress stated that no one could alter their position on this issue.
Constitution
.
Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Kiren Rijiju described Shivakumar’s comments as “highly grave.”
Responding to Kiren Rijiju, Mallikarjun Kharge, the leader of the Opposition (LoP) and head of the Congress party, stated that their party initiated the Bharat Jodo Yatra nationwide with the aim of safeguarding the nation.
Constitution
.”
Nobody can change the
Constitution
Drafted by Babasaheb Ambedkar, reservations cannot be abolished. To safeguard this, we undertook the Bharat Jodo Yatra from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. “They [pointing at NDA MPs] are breaking India,” Kharge stated.
Kiren Rijiju responded to Kharge and called for the resignation of
Karnataka
Deputy Chief Minister
DK Shivakumar
.
By raising the topic of Muslim reservations, Congress has tarnished the reputation of Babasaheb Ambedkar.
Constitution
“If you’ve got courage, call for the Deputy Chief Minister’s resignation right now,” Rijiju stated.
Karnataka
Deputy CM
DK Shivakumar
hit back at the
BJP
indicating that they were attempting to distort his comment.
“I prefer not to elaborate too much… Regarding quotas, multiple rulings have been issued, and following each ruling, modifications have been made to the
Constitution
There isn’t anything else… Therefore, they are attempting to distort it. They do not face any problems. I am pleased that Jairam Ramesh has initiated the privilege motion. Additionally, I am seeking advice from my legal consultants,” he stated. (ANI)
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | journalism, news, politics, politics and government, politics and law
Gregor Gysi will begin the inaugural session of the new Bundestag when it meets on Tuesday, March 25. The 77-year-old from the left-wing party has full liberty to choose both the topic and duration of his address.
According to the rules of the German parliament, the longest-serving member has the privilege of opening the inaugural session of a new Bundestag following a general election. In this instance, that role falls to 77-year-old Gregor Gysi, who has been a nearly continuous member for 31 years, from October 3, 1990—the date of Germany’s reunification.
Gysi was raised in the German Democratic Republic (GDR), which was a communist regime.
The accomplished attorney, who was also the offspring of ex-GDR Cultural Minister Klaus Gysi, entered the political arena amid the nonviolent upheaval of the late ’80s. Following the collapse of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989, which put the influential Socialist Unity Party of Germany (SED) at a crossroads, Gysi assumed leadership swiftly. Against considerable doubt, he managed an extraordinary feat: steering the SED away from oblivion.
How the Left Party Developed Over Time
To signal a new beginning for a new democratic era, the SED adopted the name PDS (Party of Democratic Socialism) and went on to win 16% of the vote in the last and only free East German election, to the GDR People’s Chamber.
Next, Gysi took on the role of the primary contender for the PDS in the initial post-reunification election to the Bundestag, which was headquartered in Bonn, the capital of Western Germany at that time.
“When I entered the Bundestag in 1990, I wasn’t held in high regard; instead, I was despised by certain individuals,” Berlin-native Gysi recounted to the weekly paper lately.
Das Parliament
He mentioned having to gain respect over many years, yet he ended by saying that now things have changed: “I think most members of the Bundestag acknowledge my political contributions.”
Stasi allegations
Many people also criticize the left-wing politician due to allegations that were never completely resolved. In the mid-1990s, documents from the notorious East German Ministry for State Security, commonly referred to as the “Stasi,” came to light, indicating that Gysi might have been a Stasi informer. However, no evidence was ever found to substantiate these claims.
Nevertheless, a Bundestag committee examining potential Stasi involvement among Members of Parliament concluded that Gysi was indeed an informal informant for the East German secret service. Despite having previously advocated for those opposed to the government during the GDR period, Gysi managed to successfully defend himself multiple times in court against recurring allegations.
The accusations regarding his history failed to diminish his popularity, even within the former West Germany. Known as an adept speaker, he frequently intimidates fellow Members of Parliament with his clever parliamentary addresses. Additionally, he is a favorite among television talk show audiences and much in demand as an interview subject.
Safeguarding East German interests
Gysi has consistently viewed himself as an advocate for the interests of eastern Germany. Following reunification, millions of former GDR residents found themselves without work due to the struggling state-run businesses (VEB) being incapable of competing within the capitalist framework. As a result, they rapidly started feeling like inferior citizens.
Gysi aimed to alter this situation, yet his efforts were only partly successful. At first, the newly formed leftist group achieved electoral success with more than 20% of votes in the former East Germany. However, gradually, numerous individuals distanced themselves from the party known as The Left. Consequently, many residents in Eastern Germany shifted their support toward the right-populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
![]()
Gysi is particularly delighted with the unforeseen success of his party during the federal elections held on February 23rd. Having secured slightly less than nine percent, they nearly doubled their previous outcome from 2021. The rise in backing for the AfD has left him feeling disheartened. Likely due to this concern, he’s anticipated to address the condition of societal affairs in his inaugural speech as a former speaker of the Bundestag. Additionally, he plans to weigh in on matters concerning international relations amidst multiple conflicts and upheavals.
Thirty-five years since German reunification, it is both an honor and a responsibility to kick off the inaugural session of the new Bundestag, as Gysi stated.
Das Parlament
He will deliver both his opening and closing remarks at this event – with no restrictions on how long he can speak. “Don’t fret,” he quipped, “I won’t take advantage of that liberty.”
The original version of this piece was penned in German.
If you’re still around: Each Tuesday, the LIFEHACKeditors compile updates on developments in German politics and society. You can subscribe here for the weekly email newsletter called Berlin Briefing.
Author: Marcel Fürstenau
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | music, musicians, news, performing arts, romania
The renowned French pianist Richard Clayderman is scheduled to play in Romania this week. Among the top-tier musicians globally, he will take the stage on March 25 at Sala Palatului in Bucharest and on March 29 at BT Arena in Cluj-Napoca.
The celebrated French pianist known as “The Prince of Romance” promises an enchanting night full of affection and delicacy, as stated by the event organizers. Titled “Eternal Love,” this spectacular performance honors women and genuine sentiments. Each concert is set for 7:30 PM.
To date, Clayderman has sold more than 90 million albums and received an impressive 267 gold discs along with 70 platinum discs. This achievement makes him the best-selling pianist ever, a fact acknowledged by Guinness World Records.
To enhance the emotional depth and grandeur of the performance, Richard Clayderman will join forces with the “George Enescu” Philharmonic Orchestra from Botoșani, providing spectators with an exceptionally refined auditory delight.
“He is a musician whose artistry has spanned generations through his distinctive compositions. Both the performances in Bucharest and Cluj-Napocea promise to be extraordinary events, particularly due to their partnership with the ‘George Enescu’ Philharmonic Orchestra based in Botoșani. This collaboration promises to add profound richness and grace to each melodic element of the show. Attendees can expect an unparalleled experience—a genuine homage to affection and delicacy,” stated Radu Groza, the festival’s coordinator.
Tickets for the ” Forever Love” concerts can be found on Entertix.ro.
radu@romania-insider.com
(Photo source: press release)
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | business, commerce, government, news, scandals
….Director of Finance cited
Within the generally tranquil Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), dark elements are actively striving to alter the environment due to their self-serving objectives.
The objective of these forces is to generate a tense environment under the pretext of removing the present Managing Director.
The entire plan becomes clouded because those driving this agenda aim to involve the Workers Union as the frontrunner.
The Director of Finance, Rev. Dr. John Okwesie Arthur, along with several others, has been implicated in instigating efforts to generate unwarranted tension at the GACL.
According to sources from within the GACL, there have been discussions between several high-ranking managers and union leaders aimed at making sure that those in charge implement alterations benefiting specific individuals.
Sources inside the union indicate that members are displeased because some individuals pushing this agenda want the appointing authority to appear incompetent.
It has been confirmed that Rev. Dr. Arthur was urging a previous Managing Director to assist him in securing the position of Managing Director, despite another individual already holding the role.
In addition to the ex-Managing Director, a cabinet member from the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government is also diligently working for Rev. Dr. Arthur.
Once more, Reverend Dr. Arthur reportedly charmed the recently appointed Deputy Director of the GACL, Madam Obuobia Darko-Opoku, entirely to be perceived as the ideal candidate for the position.
The Director of Finance has been collaborating with the GACL for more than ten years and has extensively dealt with all the concerns affecting the organization.
There is strong suspicion that early conflicts at GACL arose due to false claims about certain valid promotions, which were allegedly instigated by Rev. Dr. Arthur and his group.
In the meantime, certain union members at GACL have declared that they will not permit anyone to exploit them for personal gains.
They believe that the President, who has the power to appoint individuals, should not be rushed into fulfilling someone else’s wishes. Instead, he should have the freedom to make decisions according to his own pace.
More To Come!
The post
Malevolent elements operating within the Ghana Airport Company
appeared first on
The Herald ghana
.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
