Hope Mafaranga

  Gavi’s immunisation programmes deliver a major economic boost to countries, with nearly US$20 billion in economic benefits generated in 2024 alone By Hope Mafaranga    Vaccination programmes in lower-income countries supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance saved at least 1.7 million lives in 2024, the highest number recorded in a single year, according to Gavi’s Annual Progress Report published today.   The number of lives saved 400,000 more than in 2023 was one highlight in a strong year for immunisation across Gavi-supported countries, with significant progress also made in immunising children in some of the world’s most conflict-afflicted countries.   The impact generated by immunisation extended beyond public health. In 2024, Gavi countries garnered nearly US$20 billion in economic benefits as a result of having healthier populations, reduced healthcare costs and more productive communities. Since Gavi was established in 2000, immunisation has generated a ...

Democratic Republic of the Congo declares Ebola virus disease outbreak in Kasai Province By Hope Mafaranga  Kinshasa – Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have declared an outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Kasai Province where 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four health workers, have been reported as of 4 September 2025. The outbreak has affected Bulape and Mweka health zones in Kasai Province where health officials have been carrying out investigations after the cases and the deaths reported presented with symptoms including fever, vomiting, diarrhoea and haemorrhage. Samples tested on 3 September at the country’s National Institute of Biomedical Research in the capital Kinshasa confirmed the cause of the outbreak as Ebola Zaire caused by Ebola virus disease.    A national Rapid Response Team joined by World Health Organization (WHO) experts in epidemiology, infection prevention and control, laboratory and case management has been depl...