Latest news with #WAHO
Zawya
18-07-2025
- Health
- Zawya
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) commits to menstrual dignity in schools with the distribution of 5,000 reusable sanitary towel kits in Benin
The ECOWAS Resident Representation in Benin has officially handed over 5,000 reusable menstrual towel kits to schools in Benin on the 27th of June, 2025. This event too place in Zé Benin is a part of the regional project titled 'Support for Benin's Initiatives to Raise Awareness Among Young Girls on Good Personal and Menstrual Hygiene Practices and for the Promotion of ECOWAS Among Young People.' Funded by the West African Health Organisation (WAHO), this initiative aims to combat menstrual insecurity, empower young girls and raise the profile of ECOWAS among young people. The ceremony was attended by representatives of the sectoral ministries, Zè Town Hall,Departmental Social Affairs Departments, Guichets Uniques de Protection Sociale (GUPS), the beneficiary schools, as well as pupils, parents and technical partners. Representing the ECOWAS Resident Representative, Mr Mamadou Konate emphasised that this action is in line with the institution's Vision 2050, which places human dignity, equal opportunities and social justice at the heart of regional integration.' Menstrual hygiene is a matter of dignity, health and social justice. Under no circumstance should itnever be a barrier to schooling or to young girls' self-esteem' he said. The kits, made locally, will be distributed fairly by the GUPS of Zè and Djidja, in coordination with the relevant departmental structures. Symbolically, ECOWAS handed over the kits to the Ministry of Social Affairs and Microfinance, represented by the Atlantic Departmental Director of Social Affairs. The kits were then transferred to the Atlantic and Zou Departmental Directorates of Social Affairs for distribution to 23 identified secondary schools. The presentation of the project also included awareness-raising and training sessions for pupils, teachers and supervisors, with focus on promoting the values and missions of ECOWAS. The ceremony ended with a symbolic handover of the kits to some of the girls, followed by a group photo and interviews with the media personnel present. The spokeswoman for the beneficiaries expressed her gratitude by declaring this donation as 'a life-changing gesture' and encouraged her colleagues to 'never give up on their dreams'. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Zawya
03-07-2025
- Health
- Zawya
West Africa Health Organisation (WAHO) convenes strategic communications workshop to fortify regional Lassa fever response and sensitization
The West Africa Health Organisation (WAHO), in close collaboration with the Coalition Secretariat Partners (CSP), the ECOWAS Commission, and Member States, successfully concluded a pivotal two-day Strategic Communications Workshop in preparation for the 2nd Lassa Fever International Conference, held in Abuja, Nigeria. from June 30th to July 1st, 2025, the gathering aimed to create political will, advance prevention efforts, enhance preparedness and strengthen a unified regional response to Lassa Fever across West Africa. The workshop's objectives included identifying and analysing communication gaps, fostering mutual understanding of each entity's communication roles and responsibilities, developing a unified communication strategy for the 2nd Lassa Fever International Conference, defining clear communication protocols, and establishing a joint roadmap for sustained regional communications, collaboration, and sensitization. During the workshop, Dr. Virgil Lokossou, Acting Director of Health Services at WAHO, delivered the opening remarks on behalf of Dr. Assi Melchor, the Director General of WAHO. He emphasized the importance of putting in place effective communication tools, addressing specific Lassa Fever communication issues, and establishing a more visible regional platform for collaboration and decision-making. Dr. Lokossou stressed the need for increased awareness and prevention of the Lassa Fever threat, aligning strategies with scientific evaluation, and collectively developing a regional plan for the upcoming conference. He urged all participants to commit to this cause, working together to identify and address difficulties for the benefit of the entire region. At the conclusion of the two-day event, Dr. Sombie Issiaka, Acting Director of Public Health and Research at WAHO, provided the closing remarks on behalf of the Director General of WAHO. He expressed sincere appreciation to the Nigerian Watch team for their smooth collaboration in combating Lassa Fever and other emerging diseases, as well as for organizing the workshop. He also extended thanks to all communication experts from participating member states, the Boom Public Health Group, and the Corona Management Systems Group. Dr. Issiaka highlighted the significance of the coalition, emphasizing that all strategies discussed would move into the implementation stage, ensuring all stakeholders are effectively involved through clear communication in the fight against Lassa Fever. He thanked the Nigerian authorities as the host country, colleagues from WAHO and the ECOWAS Commission's communication directorate for their support and collaboration, formally declaring the workshop closed and expressing anticipation for continued joint efforts. The workshop marks a significant step forward in ensuring a coordinated, impactful, and visible response to Lassa Fever across West Africa. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Al Etihad
05-04-2025
- General
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi hosts World Arabian Horse Organisation's GA meeting tomorrow
5 Apr 2025 23:02 ABU DHABI (WAM) Abu Dhabi will host tomorrow the General Assembly meeting of the World Arabian Horse Organisation (WAHO).The meeting convenes under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS), and with the follow-up of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, EAHS Vice Chairman.A total of 268 members from 62 countries will be attending the meeting at the St. Regis Saadiyat Resort-Abu Dhabi. It will last for a week full of events and lectures, with broad international participation, to discuss and review all issues and files related to purebred Arabian the sidelines of the meeting, a number of events will be held, including orientation tours and visits to several studs, stables, and Arabian horse clubs in the UAE. It is worth mentioning that WAHO has the responsibility of ensuring that standards acceptable to all its Registering Authority Members are established and maintained in the matters of regulations, methods of registration and production of Stud Books.
Daily Tribune
21-03-2025
- Sport
- Daily Tribune
HRH Prince Salman: Horse Racing a Timeless Pillar of Bahrain's Heritage
Horse racing remains an integral part of Bahrain's heritage and continues to enjoy widespread popularity, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, affirmed on Thursday. His Royal Highness attended the 24th race of the 2024–2025 season at the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club (REHC) in Sakhir, where he underscored Bahrain's growing prominence in the sport. HRH highlighted the Kingdom's continued success in regional and international competitions, reflecting its commitment to excellence in horseracing. HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister noted that the ongoing development of the Kingdom's horse racing sector, supported by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, along with the strong participation of enthusiasts, reinforces Bahrain's position as a global hub for horseracing. His Royal Highness praised the pivotal role of the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club High Committee, chaired by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa - Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Educational Charitable Trust, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), and Chairman of the REHC High Committee - in advancing the sport in Bahrain. HRH Prince Salman commended the REHC High Committee's initiatives and development plans, which continue to foster a competitive environment for jockeys, owners, and spectators while driving the sport's sustained success. Among those in attendance were His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Educational Charitable Trust, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), and Chairman of the REHC High Committee, alongside His Highness Shaikh Faisal bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Vice President of the Supreme Council for Environment, Deputy Chairman of the REHC High Committee, and Member of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports. Several other senior officials and dignitaries were also present at the event. Race Winners The Fatees Al Hajeri Cup, presented by Ali bin Mohammed Al Hajeri, was awarded to jockey Abdul Rahim Jasim, while Yousif Osama Buheji, CEO of REHC, presented the winner of the REHC Cup Race 2 to jockey A.M. Smith. Additionally, the REHC Cup Race 6 was awarded to His Highness Shaikh Nader bin Mohammed bin Salman Al Khalifa. Dhafer Hussain Habeeb presented the Late S. Sharaf Al Alawi Cup to the winning owner, Abdulaziz Al Baker. The race was also attended by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Highness Shaikh Faisal bin Rashid Al Khalifa, and several senior officials and dignitaries. Competition Highlights The first race, the Fatees Al Hajeri Cup for 1,200 meters, WAHO, was won by Al Saqlawieh 1932 (BHR) from Victorious Stable, securing its second consecutive victory despite strong competition from Al Krush 1854. The second race, a 1,200-meter sprint for imported horses, saw Piz Nair from Al Adiyat Racing claim victory, marking its second win of the season. Jehangeer, ridden by Ali Isa, took second place, achieving his first victory in the category for specialised apprentice jockeys. The third race, a 1,200-meter event for locally bred horses, was won by "Naahy," owned by Fata Abdul Halim Majeed and ridden by Hussain Asghar, marking his third career win. In the fourth race, held over 1,600 meters for locally bred Maiden class horses, "Fatal Obsession," owned by M and E Racing, secured its first victory. The race featured the largest field of the event, with sixteen horses competing. The fifth race, contested over 1,600 meters for imported horses, saw "Rawyaan," owned by Hassan Emad Hassan and ridden by Anas Al Siyabi, return to winning form. Final Races The sixth race, The REHC Cup, was held over 2,000 meters for third-category first-class imported horses and was won by "Return of the Mac," owned by Al-Mohamediya Racing and ridden by Ali Hussain. In the seventh race, a 2,400-meter event for imported horses, "Tartan Chief" from Al-Mohamediya Racing secured his first victory of the season. He surged ahead in the final 400 meters, overtaking "Glen Savage," who finished second. The eighth and final race, held for the Late Sayed Sharaf Al-Alawi Cup over 2,400 meters, saw an intense competition, with "Epic" narrowly securing victory. The horse, owned by Alliance Racing and ridden by Hussain Makki, claimed its first-ever win in a dramatic finish.
Zawya
15-03-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Annual Meeting of Data Managers for Epidemiological Surveillance in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Region: Enhancing the "One Health" Approach
Hosted by the West African Health Organization (WAHO), in partnership with the Regional Animal Health Center (RAHC) and the Health Security Program for West and Central Africa (HeSP), the Annual Meeting of Data Managers for Epidemiological Surveillance based on the "One Health" approach, underscored the regional commitment to effective implementation of the approach, that comprehensively integrates human, animal, and environmental health dimensions to address health challenges. Since the introduction of the District Health Information System, version 2 (DHIS2) in 2014, WAHO has been instrumental in promoting data sharing related to epidemic-prone diseases across ECOWAS with the aim of improving the accessibility, availability, and dissemination of health information. Based on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, the global alert level for monkeypox (MPOX), and ongoing screwworm outbreaks, the meeting focused on updating information on epidemiological surveillance in member countries, evaluating and enhancing data surveillance dashboards, and proposing strategies to strengthen coordination and data-sharing mechanisms among key stakeholders. The event gathered approximately 60 participants, including representatives from member countries, human and animal health data managers, and professionals responsible for epidemiological reporting, to assess the progress made, identify challenges, and strengthen collaboration in the use of epidemiological data. Mr. Raul KOUAME, Program Officer for Climate Change and Climate Services— ECOWAS Directorate of Environment and Natural Resources, emphasized the often-overlooked environmental impact on both physical and mental health, 'a comprehensive 'One Health' approach is essential to addressing the health challenges of our region,' he reiterated. Acting Director of the Regional Animal Health Center (RAHC), Dr. Hassane ADAKAL, discussed the role of domestic and wildlife species in the emergence of zoonotic diseases. Representing the WAHO Director General Dr. Melchior Athanase Joël Codjovi AÏSSI, Dr. Mamadou DIARRASSOUBA pointed out the importance of strengthening regional health security through the "One Health" approach. Data collected in 2024 revealed a significant increase in emerging infectious diseases in the ECOWAS region, with 67 new outbreaks identified—a 31.3% rise compared to 2023. The discussions, therefore, focused on the intergration of environmental and animal health indicators into regional platforms, harmonizing workflows among WAHO, the CRSCM, the RAHC, and member states, as well as strengthening the capacities of stakeholders involved in the "One Health" approach. The outcomes of this meeting, therefore, will guide the development of a robust regional report, supporting strategic planning and data integration into national and regional systems—representing a strategic opportunity to improve data quality, enhance early warning systems, and strengthen regional resilience to epidemics. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR).
