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To address the challenges Zimbabwe faces in providing timely, affordable, safe and quality surgical services, the Government of Zimbabwe (GoZ) launched its first National Strategy for Surgery, Obstetrics and Anesthesia (NSOAS) 2022-2025 on September 30 2022.
The strategy will promote access to surgical services from the district level, a positive step towards strengthening primary health care, as 83% of key follow-up surgical operations were performed in central and provincial hospitals .
Additionally, the strategy document will address infrastructure and equipment-related gaps that exist in essential surgical care despite improvements made as part of COVID-19 response infrastructure investments.
From now on, Zimbabwe becomes the fifth country in the SADC region and the ninth in Africa to develop and launch its NSOAS.
This follows resolution WHA 68.15 which recognized the central role of surgery and anesthesia in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The NSOAS is timely as Zimbabwe faces a double burden of both communicable and non-communicable diseases, with NCDs being the fifth of the top 10 causes of death in the country.
Several of these NCDs require surgical interventions and the new strategy will address the burden of surgically amenable disease in Zimbabwe.
“By launching this strategy as Zimbabwe, we are showing our commitment and taking a positive step in fulfilling our international obligations.
What remains now is the implementation and translation of this strategic document into action,” MoHCC Vice President and Minister Dr. Constantino Chiwenga said during the launch.
“My Ministry is calling for additional investments needed to address the emerging challenge of NCDs, including conditions amenable to surgical care,” added Dr Chiwenga.
The development of the NSOAS began in 2018 under the leadership of the MoHCC and took a Whole of Government, Whole of Society approach, which saw increased stakeholder engagement in the process towards the realization of this strategic policy document.
MoHCC received financial and technical assistance from the WHO and SDG3 GAP signatory partners (UNICEF, UNFPA, The World Bank/GFF), the SADC SOA Technical Experts Working Group (TEWG) and various professional associations in the field of SOA .
The NSOAS is aligned with the National Health Strategy (2021-2025) which seeks to achieve the highest possible level of health and quality of life for all people in Zimbabwe by 2030.
The implementation of the NSOAS strategy will ensure that all people in need of the Surgery, Obstetrics and Anesthesia (SOA) services receive timely and quality care at all levels of the health system.
Furthermore, improving access to surgical services will not only save lives but also improve human capital, thus contributing substantially to economic growth in Zimbabwe and the region.
Additionally, by prioritizing surgical care on the healthcare agenda, financial risk protection for patients is also enhanced.
“This National Strategy for Surgery, Obstetrics and Anesthesia will strengthen the health system in Zimbabwe by directing investment towards delivery and improving the capacity to deliver surgical care at the district hospital level as a means of achieving Universal Health Coverage, Equitable Access and Quality”, said the WHO representative in the country, Dr. Alex Gasasira, in a speech read on his behalf by the technical officer, Dr. Thenjiwe Sisimayi.
I would like to call on leaders at all levels to mobilize resources to support the implementation of this strategy to benefit patients in need of surgical care,” added Dr. Thenjiwe Sisimayi.
The 9th Political Dialogue was co-chaired by Seychelles’ Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, and EU Ambassador, Mr Vincent Degert. Both expressed satisfaction for the achievements of the strategic partnership and agreed to enhance cooperation in the areas of maritime security, sustainable blue economy, trade, investment as well as environment and climate change. Reaffirming their strong attachment to multilateralism, the UN Charter and the universality of human rights, they also shared views on the consequences of the Covid pandemic and the Russian war against Ukraine. They concluded on the importance of a stronger cooperation to address the global crises and their ongoing consequences notably on poverty, food security and energy with a view to reinforce the resilience of our economies and societies. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, said: - “Our engagement, covering a wide range of political, environmental and socioeconomic issues, allows for an extensive dialogue reaffirming our mutual interests and values. It promotes sustainable development and climate action, encourages development cooperation and strengthens strategic partnerships in key priority sectors. Our vulnerabilities have been further heightened by recent global events – a two-year pandemic, global inflation in food and energy prices, supply chain disruptions, and international and regional conflicts. As such, we will continue to passionately advocate for a Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI), but we also call on your support to leverage your influence in securing a universal adoption of the MVI. Avec le soutien de nos partenaires, nous pouvons créer un environnement propice aux commerce et aux investissements; éliminer les barrières empêchant la pleine participation des femmes dans tous les secteurs économiques; et promouvoir une marque seychelloise de renommée mondiale en soutenant le développement des industries des PME. Notre vision des Seychelles est celle d’un petit Etat insulaire dynamique, vibrant et pleines d'opportunités infinies. Des Seychelles innovantes mais vierges avec une base économique diversifiée et une forte résilience face aux chocs externes et au changement climatique.” The Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Seychelles, H.E. Mr Vincent Degert said: - “The multiple challenges we are facing underline with strength that humanity is at risk and that we need more than ever a stronger multilateralism to reinforce cooperation in building and increasing our resilience to be able to tackle for current and future crises to come. It is in this challenging and difficult context that we can all the more fully appreciate the value of the EU-Seychelles partnership. We share the same commitment to multilateralism. We can also rely on a solid anchor: a strong attachment to universal fundamental values like democracy, rule of law, freedom and human dignity. The EU Seychelles partnership is clearly a strategic one. It has grown over the years and allows us to pursue a broad and fruitful cooperation in many key areas of common interest like peace and security; sustainable economic growth; health and resilience; climate change and governance and human rights.” Recalling the positive outcome of the last Political Dialogue in October 2021, Seychelles and the European Union (EU) had an open and fruitful exchange of views on subjects of mutual interest that are high on their agendas. They agreed to work towards strong and converging positions in multilateral fora with regard to global crisis and the management of global commons. The Parties reaffirmed their support to the UN Resolutions on the aggression against Ukraine and on its Humanitarian consequences of adopted on 2nd and 24th of March 2022 and called for a return to peace and safety for civilians. They discussed the consequences of the war on global food security and energy prices and agreed to explore how they can work together to boost Seychelles’ food sovereignty as well as renewable energy and energy efficiency. The EU commended the consistent vote of Seychelles at the United Nations in favour of the full application of Universal Charter and its core principles, calling for an end to the repeated violations against international and humanitarian laws. Referring to several conflicts in Africa, they agreed to continue working together at pan African and regional level to promote peace and security. Reiterating the importance of safe seas and freedom of navigation for trade and the economy overall, they acknowledged their fruitful cooperation in the fight against piracy and underlined the pivotal role of the Regional Centre for Operational Coordination hosted by Seychelles within the Regional Maritime Surveillance Mechanism. Additionally, they underscored the importance of the EUNAVFOR Operation Atalanta’s latest extension of scope of operations to include other maritime threats, such as drugs and arms smuggling, and IUU fishing in their recognition of the EU’s prominent role in contributing to maritime security in the region. They emphasized the importance of regional ownership, and welcomed the ongoing discussions that will result in a deterrent effect on illicit maritime crimes. They also committed to continuing the work to finalise an agreement to strengthen their cooperation. Referring to new threats to the functioning of democratic society such as cybersecurity and disinformation, in the context of growing use of social platforms, they agreed to explore ways to work together in these areas for a safer internet and the protection of personal data. Recalling their joint commitment to the Paris Agreement of 2015 and taking account of the latest International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report highlighting the ‘consequences of inaction’, Seychelles and the EU underlined the importance of the Paris Agreement full implementation. Seychelles called upon the leadership of the EU to urge other high-emitting countries to respect global commitments on climate action, including the implementation of the Paris Agreement and capping average global temperatures at 1.5 degrees Celsius. The EU confirmed its willingness to lead by example by committing to climate neutrality by 2050 with the EU Green Deal and its commitment to support partner countries in implementing their Nationally Determined Contribution, in particular Small Island Developing States like Seychelles. In this context, the EU commended Seychelles on its role as the Chair of the African Island States Climate Change Commission (AISCCC). The Parties agreed to endeavour to create strong alliances in international fora, notably at the UN Climate Change Conference, COP27, in November in Egypt, and in the upcoming UN Biodiversity Conference (COP 15) in Canada in December. They also exchanged views on the governance and human rights situation in Seychelles and reaffirmed their strong attachment to democratic values and respect for human rights. Recalling that Seychelles is considered a model in Africa in terms of stability, democratic governance and political transition, the EU reaffirmed its readiness to continue to support Seychelles in reinforcing the capacity of its administration as well as in the fight against corruption. This is an area where Seychelles has made significant progress as demonstrated by the improved ranking in the MoIbrahim Index. The Parties also highlighted that the finalisation of the updated Gender GAP Analysis and Gender Country Profile will be instrumental to promote gender equality and fight against gender-based violence. The Parties discussed about the multiple risks to the global economic outlook. Seychelles apprised the EU of the national efforts to create a sustainable, inclusive, digitalised and diversified economy and called for greater support in the areas of science, technology and innovation. The EU commended Seychelles for achieving a strong fiscal performance and for addressing macroeconomic imbalances in a challenging context. All along, the EU has remained a key business partner for Seychelles - the most important export market, the first provider of tourists and a reliable source of foreign investments. The EU reiterated its support to Seychelles economic diversification and attracting investment in the framework of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). The Parties took note of the state of play of the ongoing negotiations for deepening the EPA aimed at moving beyond trade in goods towards a more comprehensive agreement to boost bilateral trade and investment flows. With regard to their strategic partnership in the area of fisheries, they agreed to continue joining forces to prevent, deter and eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. They recalled the benefits of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement in promoting artisanal fisheries and supporting sustainable fisheries management. The EU underlined the importance of the Seychelles-EU partnership in advocating strongly for sustainable fisheries within the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission’s (IOTC). Seychelles encouraged the EU to solidify alliances with the Indian Ocean and Eastern Africa coastal states with the aim of identifying a common position on matters concerning the IOTC. The Parties took note of the positive outcome of the BlueInvest-Africa initiative organised under the high-patronage of the President of the Republic of Seychelles and advocated for a follow up to this event as a key platform for fostering the EU-Africa cooperation and promoting a sustainable blue economy in Africa. The EU congratulated Seychelles for being removed from the EU list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes. The EU further encouraged Seychelles to continue its efforts to align with international best practices in the anti-money laundering and to make best use of its technical assistance. The EU thereby confirmed its readiness to continue to work with Seychelles in these areas that are the subject of increased attention at the international level. Seychelles welcomed and thanked the EU for technical assistance received in tackling anti-money laundering and addressing strategic deficiencies in national legislations, but aligned itself with the OACPS in decrying the practice of unilateral publications of blacklists, which it considers to go against the spirit of the Cotonou Partnership Agreement and tarnishes the reputation and image of developing countries. As the coronavirus pandemic is still ongoing, both parties recognised the importance of building resilience to any future pandemic and maintaining cooperation. They acknowledged the Team Europe support had contributed to enhance the epidemiological surveillance within the region. The EU congratulated Seychelles on its management of the sanitary crisis and on achieving mutual recognition of Digital COVID Certificate, a key step for facilitating travel between Seychelles and the EU. The EU called for Seychelles’ support with regard to the proposal for a pandemic treaty to enable the international community to cooperate more efficiently and better respond in the event of another pandemic. With regard to the European Union-African Union Joint Vision for 2030, they discussed the future of their partnership in the context of the post-Cotonou Agreement. They confirmed their determination to implement the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals as the reference for a safer, cleaner, fairer and more prosperous future. They also discussed about the EU Global Gateway, a significant investment package for a strong, inclusive, green and digital recovery and transformation. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, led the Seychelles delegation comprising of Mr Naadir Hassan, Minister of Finance, Trade and National Planning, Ms Devika Vidot, Minister for Investment, Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Mr Flavien Joubert, Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Climate Change, Mrs Marie-Celine Zialor, Minister for Sports, Youth and Family Affairs, Mr Errol Fonseka, Minister for Internal Affairs and representatives from the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Office of the Attorney General, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Human Rights Commission, the Seychelles Ports Authority and the Seychelles Maritime Security Authority. The EU Ambassador, Mr Vincent Degert led the EU Delegation. He was accompanied by ambassadors and representatives from 9 Member States, namely: Belgium, Germany, Spain, France, Cyprus, Netherlands, Romania, Finland and Sweden. A delegation of the EU Naval Force – Somalia Operation ATALANTA also participated in the Political Dialogue.
The 9th Political Dialogue was co-chaired by Seychelles’ Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, and EU Ambassador, Mr Vincent Degert.
Both expressed satisfaction for the achievements of the strategic partnership and agreed to enhance cooperation in the areas of maritime security, sustainable blue economy, trade, investment as well as environment and climate change.
Reaffirming their strong attachment to multilateralism, the UN Charter and the universality of human rights, they also shared views on the consequences of the Covid pandemic and the Russian war against Ukraine.
They concluded on the importance of a stronger cooperation to address the global crises and their ongoing consequences notably on poverty, food security and energy with a view to reinforce the resilience of our economies and societies.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, said:
“Our engagement, covering a wide range of political, environmental and socioeconomic issues, allows for an extensive dialogue reaffirming our mutual interests and values.
It promotes sustainable development and climate action, encourages development cooperation and strengthens strategic partnerships in key priority sectors.
Our vulnerabilities have been further heightened by recent global events – a two-year pandemic, global inflation in food and energy prices, supply chain disruptions, and international and regional conflicts.
As such, we will continue to passionately advocate for a Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI), but we also call on your support to leverage your influence in securing a universal adoption of the MVI.
Avec le soutien de nos partenaires, nous pouvons créer un environnement propice aux commerce et aux investissements; éliminer les barrières empêchant la pleine participation des femmes dans tous les secteurs économiques; et promouvoir une marque seychelloise de renommée mondiale en soutenant le développement des industries des PME.
Notre vision des Seychelles est celle d’un petit Etat insulaire dynamique, vibrant et pleines d'opportunités infinies.
Des Seychelles innovantes mais vierges avec une base économique diversifiée et une forte résilience face aux chocs externes et au changement climatique.”
The Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Seychelles, H.E. Mr Vincent Degert said:
- “The multiple challenges we are facing underline with strength that humanity is at risk and that we need more than ever a stronger multilateralism to reinforce cooperation in building and increasing our resilience to be able to tackle for current and future crises to come.
It is in this challenging and difficult context that we can all the more fully appreciate the value of the EU-Seychelles partnership.
We share the same commitment to multilateralism.
We can also rely on a solid anchor: a strong attachment to universal fundamental values like democracy, rule of law, freedom and human dignity.
The EU-Seychelles partnership is clearly a strategic one.
It has grown over the years and allows us to pursue a broad and fruitful cooperation in many key areas of common interest like peace and security; sustainable economic growth; health and resilience; climate change and governance and human rights.”
Recalling the positive outcome of the last Political Dialogue in October 2021, Seychelles and the European Union (EU) had an open and fruitful exchange of views on subjects of mutual interest that are high on their agendas.
They agreed to work towards strong and converging positions in multilateral fora with regard to global crisis and the management of global commons.
The Parties reaffirmed their support to the UN Resolutions on the aggression against Ukraine and on its Humanitarian consequences of adopted on 2nd and 24th of March 2022 and called for a return to peace and safety for civilians.
They discussed the consequences of the war on global food security and energy prices and agreed to explore how they can work together to boost Seychelles’ food sovereignty as well as renewable energy and energy efficiency.
The EU commended the consistent vote of Seychelles at the United Nations in favour of the full application of Universal Charter and its core principles, calling for an end to the repeated violations against international and humanitarian laws.
Referring to several conflicts in Africa, they agreed to continue working together at pan African and regional level to promote peace and security.
Reiterating the importance of safe seas and freedom of navigation for trade and the economy overall, they acknowledged their fruitful cooperation in the fight against piracy and underlined the pivotal role of the Regional Centre for Operational Coordination hosted by Seychelles within the Regional Maritime Surveillance Mechanism.
Additionally, they underscored the importance of the EUNAVFOR Operation Atalanta’s latest extension of scope of operations to include other maritime threats, such as drugs and arms smuggling, and IUU fishing in their recognition of the EU’s prominent role in contributing to maritime security in the region.
They emphasized the importance of regional ownership, and welcomed the ongoing discussions that will result in a deterrent effect on illicit maritime crimes.
They also committed to continuing the work to finalise an agreement to strengthen their cooperation.
Referring to new threats to the functioning of democratic society such as cybersecurity and disinformation, in the context of growing use of social platforms, they agreed to explore ways to work together in these areas for a safer internet and the protection of personal data.
Recalling their joint commitment to the Paris Agreement of 2015 and taking account of the latest International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report highlighting the ‘consequences of inaction’, Seychelles and the EU underlined the importance of the Paris Agreement full implementation.
Seychelles called upon the leadership of the EU to urge other high-emitting countries to respect global commitments on climate action, including the implementation of the Paris Agreement and capping average global temperatures at 1.5 degrees Celsius.
The EU confirmed its willingness to lead by example by committing to climate neutrality by 2050 with the EU Green Deal and its commitment to support partner countries in implementing their Nationally Determined Contribution, in particular Small Island Developing States like Seychelles.
In this context, the EU commended Seychelles on its role as the Chair of the African Island States Climate Change Commission (AISCCC).
The Parties agreed to endeavour to create strong alliances in international fora, notably at the UN Climate Change Conference, COP27, in November in Egypt, and in the upcoming UN Biodiversity Conference (COP 15) in Canada in December.
They also exchanged views on the governance and human rights situation in Seychelles and reaffirmed their strong attachment to democratic values and respect for human rights.
Recalling that Seychelles is considered a model in Africa in terms of stability, democratic governance and political transition, the EU reaffirmed its readiness to continue to support Seychelles in reinforcing the capacity of its administration as well as in the fight against corruption.
This is an area where Seychelles has made significant progress as demonstrated by the improved ranking in the MoIbrahim Index.
The Parties also highlighted that the finalisation of the updated Gender GAP Analysis and Gender Country Profile will be instrumental to promote gender equality and fight against gender-based violence.
The Parties discussed about the multiple risks to the global economic outlook.
Seychelles apprised the EU of the national efforts to create a sustainable, inclusive, digitalised and diversified economy and called for greater support in the areas of science, technology and innovation.
The EU commended Seychelles for achieving a strong fiscal performance and for addressing macroeconomic imbalances in a challenging context.
All along, the EU has remained a key business partner for Seychelles - the most important export market, the first provider of tourists and a reliable source of foreign investments.
The EU reiterated its support to Seychelles economic diversification and attracting investment in the framework of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
The Parties took note of the state of play of the ongoing negotiations for deepening the EPA aimed at moving beyond trade in goods towards a more comprehensive agreement to boost bilateral trade and investment flows.
With regard to their strategic partnership in the area of fisheries, they agreed to continue joining forces to prevent, deter and eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.
They recalled the benefits of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement in promoting artisanal fisheries and supporting sustainable fisheries management.
The EU underlined the importance of the Seychelles-EU partnership in advocating strongly for sustainable fisheries within the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission’s (IOTC).
Seychelles encouraged the EU to solidify alliances with the Indian Ocean and Eastern Africa coastal states with the aim of identifying a common position on matters concerning the IOTC.
The Parties took note of the positive outcome of the BlueInvest-Africa initiative organised under the high-patronage of the President of the Republic of Seychelles and advocated for a follow up to this event as a key platform for fostering the EU-Africa cooperation and promoting a sustainable blue economy in Africa.
The EU congratulated Seychelles for being removed from the EU list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes.
The EU further encouraged Seychelles to continue its efforts to align with international best practices in the anti-money laundering and to make best use of its technical assistance.
The EU thereby confirmed its readiness to continue to work with Seychelles in these areas that are the subject of increased attention at the international level.
Seychelles welcomed and thanked the EU for technical assistance received in tackling anti-money laundering and addressing strategic deficiencies in national legislations, but aligned itself with the OACPS in decrying the practice of unilateral publications of blacklists, which it considers to go against the spirit of the Cotonou Partnership Agreement and tarnishes the reputation and image of developing countries.
As the coronavirus pandemic is still ongoing, both parties recognised the importance of building resilience to any future pandemic and maintaining cooperation.
They acknowledged the Team Europe support had contributed to enhance the epidemiological surveillance within the region.
The EU congratulated Seychelles on its management of the sanitary crisis and on achieving mutual recognition of Digital COVID Certificate, a key step for facilitating travel between Seychelles and the EU.
The EU called for Seychelles’ support with regard to the proposal for a pandemic treaty to enable the international community to cooperate more efficiently and better respond in the event of another pandemic.
With regard to the European Union-African Union Joint Vision for 2030, they discussed the future of their partnership in the context of the post-Cotonou Agreement.
They confirmed their determination to implement the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals as the reference for a safer, cleaner, fairer and more prosperous future.
They also discussed about the EU Global Gateway, a significant investment package for a strong, inclusive, green and digital recovery and transformation.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, led the Seychelles delegation comprising of Mr Naadir Hassan, Minister of Finance, Trade and National Planning, Ms Devika Vidot, Minister for Investment, Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Mr Flavien Joubert, Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Climate Change, Mrs Marie-Celine Zialor, Minister for Sports, Youth and Family Affairs, Mr Errol Fonseka, Minister for Internal Affairs and representatives from the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Office of the Attorney General, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Human Rights Commission, the Seychelles Ports Authority and the Seychelles Maritime Security Authority.
The EU Ambassador, Mr Vincent Degert led the EU Delegation.
He was accompanied by ambassadors and representatives from 9 Member States, namely: Belgium, Germany, Spain, France, Cyprus, Netherlands, Romania, Finland and Sweden.
A delegation of the EU Naval Force – Somalia Operation ATALANTA also participated in the Political Dialogue.
Neurological disorders contribute significantly to global mortality and morbidity.
They are responsible for about 9 million deaths a year.
While it is estimated that, globally, around 50 million people suffer from epilepsy alone.
Of this number, 80% live in low- and middle-income countries where only 1 in 4 have access to treatment.
In Ghana, it is estimated that 1% of the population lives with epilepsy, representing 270,000 people, with a treatment gap of 85%.
To address the challenges and gaps in the care of people with epilepsy and other neurological disorders, the 75th World Health Assembly (WHA) adopted in May 2022 the Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders (IGAP), which aims to improve access to care and treatment for people living with neurological disorders while preventing new cases and promoting brain health and development throughout the life course.
As a result, WHO and other partners have been engaging stakeholders to share ideas on the effective implementation of the intersectoral global action plan on epilepsy and neurological disorders in Ghana.
“There is a need for collaboration between relevant stakeholders: everyone in health care at all levels, social care, civil and advocacy organizations, researchers and academic institutions in an attempt to improve services for epilepsy and other neurological diseases in Ghana," the WHO said.
Representative in Ghana, Dr. Francis Kasolo at the stakeholder meeting on epilepsy and other neurological disorders in Ghana.
For Ghana, the intersectoral global action plan on epilepsy and other neurological disorders will build on the achievements of the "Fight Epilepsy" initiative implemented in Ghana between 2012 and 2016, which provided treatment and care to more than 2,700 people living with epilepsy and who were previously undiagnosed.
“We have seen what we can achieve if we work together.
Therefore, the Ministry of Health will continue to work with the WHO and other partners to aggressively pursue interventions that improve the lives of people with epilepsy and other neurological disorders,” says Dr (Mrs) Joycelyn Azeez, Director of Pharmacy, Ministry of Health.
The country is also benefiting from other WHO-led interventions, such as the Mental Health Gap Action Program (mhGAP), which aims to train non-specialized health workers to diagnose and manage mental, neurological and cardiovascular conditions.
substance use.
IGAP is a comprehensive program that outlines five strategic objectives, each comprising two targets, that countries must achieve by 2031.
The Federal Government on Friday in Abuja received the report of a Technical Committee set up to prevent the rejection of agro-exports from Nigeria.
Receiving the report, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Adeniyi Adebayo, assured the committee of the political will to implement the recommendations.
According to Adebayo, the implementation of the committee’s recommendations will increase the export basket of agricultural commodities and foreign exchange earnings for the country.
“It would, therefore, require a synergy between the relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies and the private sector to yield these fruits.
“I am, however, convinced that beyond the strength of your recommendations, there is the need for adequate attention to their implementation.
“You all are aware that government cannot do it alone, therefore, the cooperation of the private sector and other non-state actors will be critical in achieving the objective for which your committee was put in place.
“Suffice it to state that the recommendations of the Technical Committee are to be driven by the private sector with the government providing the enabling environment,” he said.
The minister, however, urged stakeholders in the agro-export business to support the implementation of the recommendations.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Committee, Mr Suleiman Audu, said that food safety, technical barrier, non-adherence to best practices and disregard to basic requirements were largely responsible for the rejection of Nigeria agro-exports abroad.
According to Audu, the committee recommends that the ministry should sensitise farmers and operators in the agricultural value chain to secure and adopt Global GAP certifications in collaboration with the private sector.
He also emphasised the need for a dedicated budget to fund the Global GAP training, traceability and certification of all their farmers, to enable their products qualify for exports under the Federal Government initiative.
“The private sector should be enabled by the Federal Government to develop QR Code Traceability Card for the registration of all the operators and their agricultural commodities.
“This is in order to enhance transparency, traceability and engender visibility and acceptability for exportable agro commodities,’’ Audu said.
He said that the ministry should collaborate with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and research institutes to scale up research and development activities critical in improving produce, products, packaging and labeling requirements.
“Similarly, all relevant regulatory authorities in the agro export value chain should commence the process of automating their processes and procedures; synchronize them with the APUs, in order to curb infractions and ensure that only quality and certified products are exported,’’ Audu said.
He further said that the trade ministry and the private sector should collaborate with Nigerian Incentive based Risk Sharing insurance and Agricultural liabilities (NIRSAL) SAT-C programme, to support logistics hubs and develop transportation facilities and aggregation facilities.
“This is in order to reduce overhead costs and create momentum for trade.
“The Federal Government through FMITI, should enable the private sector to collaborate with all agencies involved in agro export activities to create a one stop shop through the use of technology (Application Programme Interface – API), to enhance ease of export.
“The Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) in collaboration with FMITI should produce documents, jingles and offline promotional campaigns in major Nigerian languages,” he said.
The Alternate Chairman, Capt. John Okakpu, said that the committee exhaustively deliberated on the problems of the rejections of Nigeria agro export commodities in foreign markets and provided efficient and sustainable recommendations to the anomaly.
“It is worthy to note that the support and enablement from the government has stimulated some of our members from the organised private sector to come out to participate in the process of driving the agro export activities in the country.
“Due to the dwindling income that is a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, it is pertinent for the government to use its scarce resources for other important sectors of the economy.
“While the organised private sector mobilise funds to implement the recommendations of the problems of rejections of agro export commodities.
The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that the committee was constituted by the Minister on May 26, to look into the issue of rejection of Nigeria agro-exports at the international market and proffer appropriate recommendations to halt the trend.
NewsSourceCredit: NAN
A cross section of beneficiaries of the Federal government’s Graduate Attachment Programme (GAP) in Taraba have lauded the Federal government for the initiative.
The beneficiaries spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Jalingo.
According to them, the experience gathered during the programme so far is enough for them to be absorbed by those offices that mentored them.
Mr Abdulwahab Yusuf, a graduate of Sociology from the Taraba State University (TSU) Jalingo, said that the programme had bequited to him basic operational skills in the public service.
Yusuf, a physically challenged, who was posted to the Department of Rehabilitations in the state Ministry of Social Development, described the programme as interesting and fufiling.
He said the ministry had engaged him in counselling of physically challenged persons who hitherto lost hope.
He also said that he had sensitised many of them to the dangers of street begging, and appealed to the Taraba Government to absorb them into the State Civil Service upon the completion of their mentorship.
Also, Mr Vanen Terna, another beneficiary attached to the Camp Lavet Hotels, said that the scheme had exposed him into both public relations and managerial skills.
Vanen, a graduate of History Education from TSU, said that he was prepared to work with the hotel if he would be employed.
He identified mobility as his major challenge in the course of the programme.
Similarly, Mr John Shaapera who was attached to the Camp Lavet Hotels, said the scheme had given him the skills to manage people and keep records.
Shaapera, a graduate of Agric Extension in TSU, expressed the determination to continue with the company if the organisation decided to retain him after the excersice.
Mr Bala Shaki, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics in the Ministry of Social Development, commended the Federal Government for the Programme.
Shaki said that the presence of the graduates in the ministry had added a lot of manpower strength to it.
The Director, while eulogising the GAP participant in his office, however, said that the office on its part was not able to motivate its participants with financial incentives.
He said the capacity of the participants would benefit any organisation they are given opportunity to serve.
Earlier, Mallam Abubakar Fikpo, Director General of the NDE, commended the various partnering organisations for accepting the GAP beneficiaries.
Represented by Mr. Benard Ishaya, an official from the NDE Abuja, who led the monitoring team, Fikpo said the scheme was intended to help the participants to acquire three months work experience that would make them easily adapt to official procedures.
He said that he was in the state to monitor GAP participants and identify challenges in the implementation of the programme.
He added that the programme was one of the components of the Special Public Works Department.
He explained that proximity to Attachment centres was a major consideration in posting participants, adding that stipends for the beneficiaries were also incorporated.
He commended the Taraba State Coordinator of NDE, Alhaji Danjuma Shehu, for the supervision work.
He said that the state coordinator had provided all necessary logistics which included vehicle and an information crew for the success of the supervision work.
NAN reports that the monitoring team visited Taraba State University, Taraba State Polytechnic, INEC, Peacock Polytechnic, Jalingo LG Secretariat among other places.
NewsSourceCredit: NAN
The Indonesian Sustainable Coffee Platform (SCOPI), in collaboration with the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-idb.org), has held a National Master Trainer (MT) Meeting.
This hybrid activity is the culmination of the Training of Trainers events held on September 4 and 5, 2022.
The extensionist for sustainable coffee or called Master Trainer (MT) is the main SCOPI program since 2015 to disseminate the National Curriculum of Sustainable Coffee Practices.
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The National Meeting of MTs in 2022 is the implementation of the SCOPI-ITFC cooperation program that is expected to facilitate knowledge transfer among SCOPI MTs and with stakeholders on the latest opportunities and challenges in the coffee sector.
In addition, this activity is also intended to be a preparation for future TM skills update programs.
The National Meeting of TM was opened with the words of Mr. Richard Atmadja, President of the Executive Board of SCOPI.
He said that the need for a competent MT is one of the answers to increase the productivity of the Arabica coffee sector.
Therefore, increasing the income of farmers in the upstream sector and increasing opportunities to develop higher value Arabica coffee exports can be achieved.
Through a long-term program with ITFC, SCOPI seeks to train highly competent extension workers through the Master Trainer Refresher Program.
While the Governor of Aceh - Achmad Marzuki, in his speech, represented by Ir. Iskandar Syukri, as a member of the expert staff of the Governor of Aceh for the specialty of Aceh, Human Resources and Cooperation Relations, said: “Tanah Gayo coffee has been the center of attention in both domestic and international markets.
The production of Arabica Gayo coffee reaches 4% of all premium Arabica coffee production in all of Indonesia.
Gayo Arabica coffee is the result of the management of natural resources by farmers belonging to the town.
For this reason, special attention, supported by multi-stakeholder collaboration, is needed to promote sustainable coffee practices in Aceh.” “Aceh Tengah is one of the centers of the best Arabica coffee processing industry in the world, with 70% of the production exported to international markets.
However, unpredictable weather conditions are believed to cause a decline in coffee production in central Aceh. Through the National TM Meeting, it is expected that there will be an increase in the competence of extensionists for coffee farmers in Central Aceh and at the national level to apply GAP and GHP to manage coffee plants in a better and more sustainable way.
.” - Drs. Shabela Abubakar, in her intervention represented by Mr. Harun Manzola as Assistant for the Economy and Development of Aceh Tengah.
In line with others, ITFC COO M.
Nazeem Noordali commented: “ITFC is focused on making trade work for everyone in Indonesia by collaborating with leading local entities like SCOPI to build capacity and facilitate knowledge transfer.
We look forward to continuing their successful collaboration program with SCOPI to foster sustainable trade by increasing the quantity and quality of Indonesian coffee production."
In the forum discussion, the MTs explained what the condition of the coffee sector is like in each area of MT work and the opportunities that could be exploited in the future.
The discussion continued with presentations by Mr. Bagus Prassetya as Program Manager of SCOPI and Mr. Arief Wicaksono as LSPP of the Ministry of Agriculture on the plan for the MT capacity building program through national certification in the field.
of sustainable coffee.
In order to have a greater focus, the activity continued with the discussion of the follow-up plan of the competency improvement program by each MT in their work area.
The last session of the discussion was filled with an explanation from Mr. Nuzul Qudri of World Coffee Research (WCR) on the integrated efforts in adaptation and mitigation of climate change that threatens the sustainability of coffee cultivation around the world.
The activity of the National MT Meeting closed with a field visit to BPP Bebesen as the location of a demonstration plot for the SCOPI-ITFC cooperation program.
The implementation of the National TM Meeting cannot be separated from the support of the Aceh Provincial Government, Central Aceh District Government, Karo District Government, Global Coffee Platform and PT.
Pupuk Iskandar Muda as a subsidiary of Pupuk Indonesia Holding Company through the Ministry's BUMN program, namely PMO Kopi Nusantara.
The establishment of PMO Kopi Nusantara is a form of commitment and concern of the Ministry of Public Enterprises to improve the coffee industry in Indonesia through the synergy of stakeholders to develop a good ecosystem of the commercial supply chain of coffee in Indonesia.
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More than 792 million people in Africa live with mental health (MH) conditions.
Like many African countries, Zimbabwe does not have enough mental health specialists to support the population.
The Government of Zimbabwe recognizes mental health as a serious public health and development issue.
HM is recognized as a priority in the most recent National Health Strategy for Zimbabwe (2021-2025) and the current Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC) HM Strategic Plan. In addition, there is still a significant discrepancy in the number of people with HM conditions who need treatment and those who receive this treatment, leading to large gaps in HM treatment.
To close the gap in HM treatment, the MoHCC is implementing the FRIENDZ program under the Zimbabwe Special Initiative for HM with the support of Friendship Bench (FB), UNICEF, WHO and ZimTTECH.
The FRIENDZ program aims to expand the assessment and management of priority mental, neurological and substance abuse disorders from the community to the primary and tertiary health care level in Zimbabwe.
Dr. Patience Mavunganidze, Acting Deputy Director of the MoHCC HM Department, emphasized the importance of the FRIENDZ programme, which will strengthen the MOHCC Primary Health Care (PHC) HM community and system in Zimbabwe.
“FRIENDZ will also strengthen referral pathways from the community level, through PHC and secondary and tertiary levels and down, as well as ensure oversight of support from higher to lower levels of care, creating a system of care of MH strengthened, accessible to the population.
” added Dr. Mavunganidze.
As part of the implementation of the FRIENDZ programme, MoHCC, with the support of UNICEF and WHO, trained 30 trainers of trainers (ToTs) from 10 different provinces between 2-5 August 2020.
The ToTs received training on support competency-based psychosocial, psychological treatments and foundational training.
Help skills using the WHO MH Action Gap (mhGAP).
The ToTs are expected to cascade the training across their various provinces with the support of FB and ZimTTECH.
Under the FRIENDZ programme, the friendship bank will expand problem-solving therapy (PST) services in Zimbabwe.
This will be done through training of lay health workers (village or community health workers) on common mental health problems, self-care and how to provide basic PST.
"We also hope to provide our FB and services to 34,480 women, men, girls and boys over the age of 16 who use our PST, which evidence has shown to significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety," says FB, psychiatrist and program manager.
Clinician, Rukudzo Mwamuka.
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“As Zim-TTECH, we will complement the work of FB and ensure that we train more health workers in 20 districts where FB is not present to ensure that we have more health workers providing HM in Zimbabwe,” says the director of Zim-TTECH, Rumbidzayi Dhiliwayo.
Strengthen MH governance and leadership, including smooth implementation of the FRIENDZ program.
Thanks to generous funding from USAID, MoHCC together with FB, WHO and ZimTTECH held awareness workshops with provincial leaders in Bulawayo and Gweru.
The provincial leadership awareness workshop held between August 22 and 26.
The main objective was to raise awareness among provincial leaders within the country's ten provinces, including discussion of integrating mhGAP into existing health programs.
Speaking on the sidelines during the Provincial Health Executive (PHE) awareness meeting in Gweru, Harare Provincial Medical Director Dr. Innocent Hove affirmed his support for implementing FRIENDZ in Harare.
“As we know, MH human resources are scarce and concentrated in major cities and hospitals, leaving 67.8% of Zimbabwe's total population living in rural areas, with limited access to care services.
of MH, the FRIENDZ program will go a long way to ensuring that underserved communities receive MH services,” said Dr. Hove. ”The FRIENDZ program seeks to empower Zimbabwe's mental health system with the capacity to provide basic mental health coverage to more than 3,000,000 women, men, boys and girls in three years.
These people receiving PST and mhGAP services will experience a reduction in symptoms and/or better daily functioning,” said Dr. Debra Machando, mental health specialist at WHO.
After the training, the ToTs are expected to pass on the training to other health cadres in Zimbabwe's ten provinces.
The goal is to ensure that knowledge is passed on to the PHC and to ensure that people in rural areas also receive quality mental health services.
The Nigerian Export promotion Council (NEPC) has advised Nigerians to focus more on non-oil export for the country’s economic survival.
Dr Ezra Yakusak, the Executive Director of NEPC, gave the charge in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria on Monday while on a visit to the council’s regional office in Jos.
Yakusak, who had cited the need to restore the country’s dwindling economy called on the public to pay more attention to non-oil export as a means to restore it.
“Early this year, NEPC launched a campaign called export for survival and the campaign is a clarion call to all Nigerians.
“To invest massively in non-oil export as a means to survive.
“If you want Nigeria to change if you want Nigeria to survive.
If you want to see this country economically viable.
“We have to embark on non-oil export.
That’s the only way we can get our foreign exchange.
“That’s the only way we can generate employment.
That’s the only way we can develop our industries.
“That’s the only way we can make Nigeria economically great again.
Export for survival” he said.
While reiterating on the importance of value chain development in Plateau regarding its “One state, one product” initiative, Yakusak symphatised with potato farmers over the recent potato blight diesease which had ravaged farms and left farmers with immense losses.
He urged them to adopt good agricultural practices which when applied will prevent future occurrences of the disease’s outbreak.
“You know most of these cases experienced are because of the lack of good agricultural practices.
“We call it GAP and our regional office here has been doing good agricultural practices.
“There are basic forms of agriculture practices that we need to practice, which when done most of these cases will be completely eliminated.
“So, we go on capacity building for these farmers, and that’s what we are doing” he said.
He called on all stakeholders in the potato business within the state to join hands with NEPC for the necessary support and trainings they will require.
NAN reports that the “One state, One product ” initiative is part of the federal government’s efforts to boost export and diversify the economy.
NAN also reports that the Irish Potato is Plateau’s ‘One state, one product.
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NewsSourceCredit: NAN
The Nigerian Export Production Council (NEPC) has urged farmers to step up efforts in the production of high quality and affordable produce for competitive export markets and economic growth.
Mrs Amina Abdulmalik, NEPC Kogi Advisor, gave the advice at a workshop on capacity building techniques on Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) for agriculture produce at Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi on Friday.
Abdulmalik explained that the workshop was organised following the enormous challenges faced by Nigerian farmers as a result of lack of compliance with international standards at the foreign markets.
“Farmers that produce affordable, yet high quality goods, will no doubt be able to keep up with competitive export markets and contribute to economic viability, social acceptability, food safety and quality.
“In fact, keeping to such practice can also enable farmers build their reputations before the public.
“Production of quality farm produce involves the application of available knowledge to address environmental, economic and social sustainability for on-farm production.
“It also involves pre-and post-production processes, resulting in safe and healthy agricultural products,” she said.
According to her, it is on this backdrop that the NEPC has made it a matter of utmost importance, to train and educate farmers on new techniques and best practices for improved agricultural production and sustainability.
The advisor said that NEPC was committed to supporting small holder farmers and processors of major agricultural commodities.
She listed areas of necessary interventions to include capacity building, farm inputs as well as support to acquire vital product quality certification and grants to improve on productivity.
According to her, good agricultural practices are important because they reinforce responsible farm methods; from site selection and land preparation, to harvesting and handling.
She urged participants to listen attentively and participate fully at the programme for their improvement in modern farming techniques.
NewsSourceCredit: NAN
