Latest news with #Bill&MelindaGatesFoundation
Business Insider
a day ago
- Health
- Business Insider
Gates Foundation's new world-first contraceptive for African women: what it means for Africa
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is set to launch a new long-acting contraceptive in Africa, beginning with Kenya later this year, as part of a US$2.5 billion commitment to accelerate research and expand services for the health of African women. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is launching a new affordable long-term contraceptive in Africa, starting with Kenya. The contraceptives, including a hormonal IUD effective for up to eight years and a contraceptive patch, aim to address obstacles such as cost and accessibility. While receiving praise, concerns were raised about the ethical implications of externally funded family planning initiatives in Africa. This innovation by the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation follows research showing poor health outcomes for African women, particularly those in underserved communities, and limited R&D funding for women's health conditions beyond cancer. ' Today, women's health issues are still too often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or ignored. Although women generally live longer than men, they spend 25% more of their lives in poor health. ' Ru-fong Joanne Cheng, Director, Women's Health Innovations, Gates Foundation noted. The new contraceptive: an affordable hormonal intrauterine device (IUD)—is designed to be effective for up to eight years, and will provide a discreet option for women in low-income households. ' A new hormonal IUD designed for affordability and a user-centered experience is being launched in Kenya, Nigeria, and possibly India, ' Dr Anita Zaidi, head of the Gender Equality Division at the Gates Foundation noted. The device is inserted into the uterus, where it releases progestin, a synthetic hormone that thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching and fertilising an egg. Ru-fong described the revolutionary contraceptive patch, saying, 'I magine getting six months of contraceptive protection by pressing a small patch onto your skin. Discreet and self-administered.' She further explained that the patch is embedded with microneedles containing progestin, which delivers protection over several months. The foundation emphasized that the new programme will 'ensure that women and girls in low and middle-income countries can access the contraceptives and family planning information they want and thus exercise their right to decide whether to have children and, if so, when and how many.' Dr. Anita also noted that the programme builds on the foundation's 25-year work in maternal and child health, aimed at ending preventable deaths, eliminating deadly infectious diseases, and lifting millions out of poverty by 2045. 'Many women in these communities want to have control over their reproductive health but do not use existing contraceptive methods because of male interference, concerns about side effects, or lack of access to options that meet their specific needs. As a result, nearly half of all pregnancies worldwide—about 45%—are unplanned ' the Foundation said With the help of regional partners and government, the Gates foundation will expand access to the self-injectable contraceptive DMPA-SC to at least 35 countries, including Uganda, Senegal, Malawi, Nigeria, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Other funded innovations include rapid testing for sexually transmitted infections, AI-enabled ultrasound devices, and vaginal health therapies. Why Africa is the Focus According to the Foundation, Sub-Saharan Africa has some of the highest rates of unmet need for family planning globally, with barriers ranging from cost and distance to health facilities to cultural opposition. Many countries also face high rates of adolescent pregnancies, maternal mortality, and limited reproductive health infrastructure. By targeting Africa, the initiative seeks to provide longer-lasting, affordable options in regions where demand for family planning remains largely unmet. As Melinda French Gates emphasized, ' Contraceptives are one of the most powerful tools we have. It puts the power in the hands of young girls and women to plan their families, and quite honestly, to plan their futures.' Potential Implications However, some critics raise concerns that contraceptive programs in Africa may be perceived as externally imposed population control. This notion further suggests that the continent is being used as a testing ground for global health innovations, noting that similar large-scale rollouts are less visible in wealthier nations. Considering concerns from billionaires like Elon Musk and western pro-life activists about declining populations in their own countries, which highlight contrasting demographic priorities, critics argue that the new program not only focuses on population control but also risks taking away one of Africa's major advantages: its growing population.
Asahi Shimbun
3 days ago
- Health
- Asahi Shimbun
VOX POPULI: Mosquitoes are the world's top predator, share traits with 2nd
An Asian tiger mosquito (Provided by the Department of Veterinary Science of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases) What is the most dangerous animal to human life? If asked the question, many might picture a snake coiled to strike, a bear looming in the forest or the fin of a shark slicing through the water. Yet the deadliest of them all, according to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is far smaller and far more commonplace: the mosquito. That fragile wisp of life, drifting on the air with its telltale, needling buzz. Malaria, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis—across the globe, these mosquito-borne scourges claim hundreds of thousands of lives each year. Some historians and scientists go further. Timothy C. Winegard, in 'The Mosquito: A Human History of Our Deadliest Predator,' cites estimates suggesting that over the 200,000-year span of modern humanity, nearly half of all deaths have, in one way or another, borne the mark of this winged killer. The high-pitched whine of a mosquito has been tormenting humans since antiquity. In 'Makura no Soshi' ('The Pillow Book'), the celebrated Heian Period (794-1185) court lady Sei Shonagon (c. 966-1025) included among her list of 'hateful things' the mosquito that 'announces itself with that thin little wail' just as one has settled drowsily into bed. One might think it would be better if we couldn't hear it at all—yet some researchers speculate that humans evolved the ability to detect that tiny sound in order to survive. In the American animated film 'A Bug's Life,' populated by a cast of endearing insects, a tipsy mosquito sidles up to the bar and orders a 'Bloody Mary, O positive.' It's a playful nod to one theory suggesting that people with type O blood are particularly irresistible to mosquitoes. I fell victim to the summertime scourge on Aug. 7, twice bitten on the leg. Even in this season's abnormal heat, some mosquitoes seem immune to summer fatigue. The itch is maddening—so persistent it borders on malice. If only we could negotiate with them, I would gladly sign a peace treaty with these stubborn little vampires: Take my blood, but spare me the bite. Which brings us back to the killer rankings. After the whining blood bandit, which animal claims the next-highest human toll? The answer, of course, is ourselves—we who pride ourselves on our intelligence and reason, yet remain history's most prolific killers. —The Asahi Shimbun, Aug. 8 * * * Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that takes up a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives on and insights into contemporary Japan and its culture.
Hans India
6 days ago
- Business
- Hans India
Zero poverty possible with welfare, support: Naidu
Amaravati: Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday expressed confidence that the Zero Poverty (P4) initiative taken up by the state government would achieve its goal by 2029, marking the first significant step towards poverty eradication. He stated that Andhra Pradesh's P4 programme was poised to become a national model. During a video conference with MLAs, people's representatives, and officials from the Secretariat, the Chief Minister reviewed the P4 programme. It was decided that the initiative would be officially implemented from August 19. The review meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Vijay Anand, Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav, P4 Foundation Vice Chairman Kutumb Rao, and other senior officials. The state government launched the P4 initiative on Ugadi, the Telugu New Year Day, on March 30. P4 stands for public-private-people partnership, wherein well-off individuals willing to contribute are called 'Margadarsies' (mentors), while the underprivileged beneficiaries are known as 'Bangaru Kutumbams (golden families). During the review on Tuesday, the Chief Minister highlighted that the P4 programme was aimed at improving the quality of life for 'Bangaaru Kutumbams'. "The primary objective is for people to give back to society," he said. He praised Pallekunta Hemalatha, a sanitation worker from Avanigadda, who became a 'Margadarshi' by helping an elderly woman. "If there is a responsive heart, people will come forward with humanity to help the poor," the Chief Minister stated. "Those who offer help, not just money, are also 'Margadarshis'. What these families need is emotional bonding and a helping hand. While organisations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Vedanta work with CSR funds, P4 aims at going beyond that with the sole purpose of supporting families. We are implementing the Zero Poverty Mission with the people as our greatest asset." The Chief Minister clarified that the selection of Margadarshis is purely voluntary. "There should be no coercion or opposition. Those with zeal to help others, will join this initiative," he said, warning against attempts by some 'demonic" individuals to create negative public sentiment. "Some people have the financial resources but lack the heart to help, while others have the heart but lack the time. Identify such people and inform them about the P4 platform," he urged. The goal is to reduce economic inequalities, which are detrimental to society, he added. He added that today's beneficiaries could become tomorrow's mentors. "P4 provides additional support to 'Bangaaru Kutumbams' on top of government welfare schemes. Reach out to NRIs and industrialists abroad to inspire them," he suggested. So far, 937,913 'Bangaaru Kutumbams' have been identified, and 103,938 Margadarshis have registered. The needs of 1 million 'Bangaaru Kutumbams' across the state have been prioritised and analysed using an AI-based system. The findings reveal that 31 per cent require employment opportunities, 22 per cent need medical assistance, and 9 per cent seek support for small businesses, he explained. The initiative also includes a 'Fund a Need' feature. The programme's implementation will be reviewed every three months.
Jordan News
04-08-2025
- Business
- Jordan News
Bill Gates: A Symbol of Innovation, Ambition, and Transformational Impact - Jordan News
In a world increasingly dominated by technology, the name Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, remains a symbol of innovation, ambition, and transformational influence. اضافة اعلان Decades ago, the story began with a company that would go on to reshape the world through software—and behind that story stood a young visionary whose ideas radically transformed our daily lives. Born in Seattle, Washington, in 1955, William Henry "Bill" Gates showed an early fascination with computers and an exceptional talent for programming, often spending countless hours writing code on primitive machines. Today, Gates is recognized as one of the most influential and pioneering figures in modern technology. The Rise of Microsoft In the 1970s—when personal computers were still a distant dream for most—Gates and his childhood friend Paul Allen saw the immense potential in software. In 1975, the two passionate young men founded a company called Microsoft in New Mexico. A turning point came in 1980 when Microsoft struck a deal with IBM to supply the operating system for its first personal computer (IBM PC). At the time, Microsoft didn't own an operating system—but Gates successfully acquired the rights to 86-DOS (which later became MS-DOS) and adapted it to IBM's specifications. This bold move sparked the personal computer revolution and positioned Microsoft at the forefront of the tech world. A Legacy of Innovation Microsoft's momentum continued to accelerate. In 1985, the company launched the first version of Windows, a user-friendly graphical interface that made personal computers accessible to millions. This was followed by the release of the Microsoft Office suite in 1989, which became the gold standard for office productivity thanks to tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Under Gates' leadership, Microsoft grew into one of the world's largest and most influential corporations, dominating the markets for operating systems and productivity software. Challenges and Transformation The road wasn't without obstacles. Microsoft faced antitrust lawsuits and accusations of monopolistic practices. However, Gates' vision and adaptability helped him navigate these challenges. In 2000, Gates stepped down as CEO of Microsoft and assumed the role of Chief Software Architect. By 2008, he had fully stepped back from day-to-day operations to focus on philanthropy through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which he co-founded with his former wife Melinda French Gates. The foundation focuses on pressing global issues such as public health, poverty alleviation, and education. Enduring Global Impact Gates' influence on the tech industry and the global economy remains undeniable. Through his ambitious vision, he didn't just build a leading company—he helped shape the digital world we live in today, leaving behind a legacy of both innovation and humanitarian impact. He eventually resigned from Microsoft's board in 2020, continuing to distance himself from formal corporate roles. Today, he dedicates most of his time to writing, addressing global challenges like climate change and public health, all while maintaining a public image marked by quiet intelligence and a deep desire to "make the world better." Net Worth As of July 2025, Bill Gates' net worth is estimated at $129 billion, according to Bloomberg Billionaires Index, placing him among the top 10 wealthiest people in the world. His wealth has declined somewhat in recent years due to stepping away from executive roles at Microsoft and his massive charitable donations. Gates has pledged to give away the majority of his fortune as part of the "Giving Pledge" initiative he co-launched with Warren Buffett. Nonetheless, Gates' investments remain diverse, including significant holdings through Cascade Investment, a firm managing assets in sectors such as energy, real estate, hospitality, and railroads. From tech pioneer to global philanthropist, Bill Gates continues to inspire generations with a life shaped by vision, resilience, and purpose.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Bill Gates' net worth drops $51 billion in one week; here's why the Microsoft co-founder is happy to give it away
The Bloomberg Billionaires Index updated its ledger on July 13 and wiped $51 billion off Bill Gates' fortune in a single stroke. One week earlier, he sat on an estimated $175 billion; the revision puts him near $124 billion, nudging him down to twelfth place globally. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The plunge isn't the result of bad bets or a Microsoft sell-off gone wrong. Instead, it reflects Gates' plan to empty his pockets long before the undertaker knocks. In a May blog post, he vowed that no obituary would say he 'died rich,' and he gave his foundation a deadline of 31 December 2045 to distribute almost everything he owns. Bloomberg simply caught up with how aggressively those transfers have already begun. So while headlines shout 'loss,' Gates sees progress toward a promise that reshapes both the billionaire rankings and the future cash flow of the world's largest private charity. Bill Gates' net worth drops $51 billion Between 3 July and 10 July, Gates' listed wealth slid from $175 billion to $124 billion, a 29 percent haircut. Most of the shift comes from updated accounting of shares he has already earmarked—or outright transferred—to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and related philanthropic vehicles. Because he still holds about 3.5 percent of Microsoft through personal and family trusts, day-to-day market moves matter, but the big swing this month is bookkeeping catching up with his give-away schedule. Date Bloomberg estimate Change vs. prior year Jan 2022 $128 B — Jul 2023 $155 B 0.21 Jan 2024 $117 B −25 % 3 Jul 2025 $175 B 0.49 10 Jul 2025 $124 B −29 % (Rounded figures; source – Bloomberg Billionaires Index) Bill Gates' pledge to give away 99 % of his wealth by 2045 In a May 8 essay, Gates wrote, 'There are too many urgent problems to solve for me to hold on to resources that could be used to help people.' He set a 20-year window to donate at least 99 percent of his remaining assets and to wind down the foundation by 2045. The commitment formalises what observers have called 'the long goodbye' to his billionaire status—only now the timeline is public and the pace is accelerating. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Philanthropy in action: where the money is going Global health : The foundation funds vaccine programs for preventable killers like polio and rotavirus, efforts Gates says have already saved 'tens of millions of lives.' : The foundation funds vaccine programs for preventable killers like polio and rotavirus, efforts Gates says have already saved 'tens of millions of lives.' Agricultural resilience : Grants flow to drought-resistant seed research for sub-Saharan Africa. : Grants flow to drought-resistant seed research for sub-Saharan Africa. Climate adaptation: Recent pledges back low-cost solar and methane-reduction projects. Since 2000, the organisation has granted more than $100 billion and still holds an endowment of $77 billion, even after the latest transfers. Market moves, donations and the billionaire rankings Gates' slide pushed him below former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, now worth about $173 billion and sitting in fifth place. Amazon's Jeff Bezos and Tesla's Elon Musk still dominate the top slots. Analysts note the rankings may yo-yo as Gates continues to vest shares or as Microsoft's price wiggles, but the directional trend is clear: philanthropy is winning the tug-of-war with personal net worth. Why Gates says he won't die rich The 69-year-old argues that capital stuck in a brokerage account is 'opportunity cost incarnate.' He points to stalled humanitarian progress—especially cuts in Western foreign-aid budgets—and insists private capital must fill the gap. Critics worry about outsized influence from one donor, yet even they acknowledge his cash is now the lifeblood of several global-health campaigns once bankrolled by governments. Potential ripple effects for tech and philanthropy Signal to other moguls: When one of the most famous billionaires accelerates giving, peer pressure follows. Watch for fresh commitments from the likes of Larry Page or Michael Dell. When one of the most famous billionaires accelerates giving, peer pressure follows. Watch for fresh commitments from the likes of Larry Page or Michael Dell. Foundation sunset clause: By setting a close date, Gates challenges the idea of philanthropic capital sitting in perpetuity; that could push regulators to rethink payout rules. By setting a close date, Gates challenges the idea of philanthropic capital sitting in perpetuity; that could push regulators to rethink payout rules. Microsoft shares supply: As more stock transfers to charity, the Gates Foundation will likely sell portions to fund grants, adding liquidity—but not enough volume to unnerve markets, analysts say. Related FAQs 1. How much is Bill Gates worth after the $51 billion drop? Bloomberg now pegs him at about $124 billion, ranking twelfth in the world. 2. Did Microsoft's stock crash cause the decline? No. The sharp adjustment reflects wealth Gates has already shifted toward his foundation, not market volatility. 3. What is his timeline for giving away 99 % of his fortune? He plans to complete the donations and close the Gates Foundation by December 31, 2045. 4. How much has the Gates Foundation donated so far? Since 2000, the foundation has granted more than $100 billion to health, education and climate projects. 5. Could Gates fall out of the billionaire ranks entirely? Yes—if he sticks to the 99 % pledge, most of his current wealth will move to charities over the next two decades, potentially leaving him with 'just' hundreds of millions.
