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Championing wildlife conservation, marine turtle protection in Gambia

Michael Simire
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Championing wildlife conservation, marine turtle protection in Gambia

Mawdo Jallow is a wildlife conservationist and CITES focal point for The Gambia, actively engaged in marine turtle conservation through the establishment of hatcheries. He also contributes to the development of a CITES species identification guidebook tailored for The Gambia. He recently spoke with the Elephant Protection Initiative (EPI) Foundation

Mawdo Jallow
Mawdo Jallow conducting research on identification of a type of crocodile found in the Gambia in 2006

Tell us a little bit about how you grew up, and where your passion for wildlife was ignited.

The CITES master’s programme was a transformative journey for me. It sharpened my ability to gather and interpret crucial data in my field, empowering me to make well-informed decisions that account for both scientific insights and technical aspects. These skills have been invaluable – not just in shaping effective policies but also in contributing to meaningful legislation. One of the highlights of my experience was working on drafting The Gambia’s CITES Bill, where I applied the knowledge and skills, I gained to navigate the complexities of CITES resolutions and regulations. This process also enhanced my expertise in the scientific and technical dimensions of enforcement.

The programme deepened my understanding of CITES initiatives and strengthened my commitment to protecting and managing species listed under the CITES appendices, as well as other endangered wildlife. But beyond the technical knowledge and policy work, it was the program’s emphasis on conservation that truly sparked my passion for wildlife protection. This journey has not only expanded my professional capabilities but also reinforced my dedication to preserving our planet’s incredible biodiversity.

In your experience working for wildlife conservation in Gambia, what has been the highlight of your career? 

The highlight of my career in wildlife conservation in The Gambia has undoubtedly been my involvement in marine turtle conservation. Establishing hatcheries to protect these endangered species and seeing the successful release of hatchlings into the wild has been incredibly rewarding. Additionally, co-authoring landmark publications on the hooded vulture and contributing to the development of The Gambia’s CITES species identification guidebook are standout achievements. Leading the research and development unit at the Department of Parks & Wildlife Management (DPWM) has allowed me to oversee crucial biodiversity projects, from monitoring aquatic mammals like manatees and dolphins to coordinating regional conservation initiatives. These experiences have deepened my passion for preserving our country’s rich biodiversity and shaped my commitment to combating wildlife crime.

Is there any story you can share that keeps you hopeful for wildlife conservation?

One story that keeps me hopeful for wildlife conservation in The Gambia and beyond is the collaborative success we’ve had in protecting the critically endangered West African manatee. A few years ago, manatees were facing severe threats from hunting and habitat loss, with little awareness among local communities about their ecological importance. Through a regional program, we trained local fishermen and community members alongside protected area managers in both The Gambia and Sierra Leone on sustainable conservation practices. I vividly remember one fisherman, who had previously hunted manatees, sharing his new understanding of their role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems.

He even took the lead in spreading awareness among his peers, becoming a protector of the species, he once hunted. His transformation, along with the active involvement of community members, has led to a decline in manatee hunting and improved protection for their habitats. This community-driven change, combined with cross-border collaboration, gives me great hope that we can protect and preserve endangered species through awareness and collective action, extending well beyond our borders.

As the CITES focal point for Gambia, what is your opinion on the role of global policies in empowering wildlife conservation at a national level?

Global policies play a crucial role in strengthening national wildlife conservation efforts by setting standards and guidelines that align countries with global conservation goals. CITES, for instance, regulates the trade of endangered species, helping protect biodiversity from illegal exploitation and unsustainable practices.

One of the most impactful aspects of CITES is its ability to elevate the urgency of wildlife protection. When The Gambia joined CITES, it prompted the development of national legislation and stricter penalties for wildlife crimes. This framework has catalysed actions like species monitoring, conservation planning, and training enforcement officers – critical steps in our work.
Global policies also offer technical and financial support, which is vital for countries with limited resources. Through CITES, our staff received training in species identification and law enforcement, building national capacity.

These policies foster regional collaboration, allowing us to address cross-border issues such as illegal wildlife trade and habitat management more effectively. Moreover, CITES emphasises science-based decision-making, pushing The Gambia to enhance data collection and monitoring systems. This has strengthened partnerships between national authorities, NGOs, and communities, creating a united front for conservation. For example, we recently developed a CITES bill, now in its final stages, and submitted a National Strategy Combating Wildlife Crime for approval.

The complex issue of maintaining Africa’s biodiversity and protecting the remaining wildlife remains to be the topic in conservation matters across the continent. As a wildlife professional, what do you think are some of the most practical solutions?

Maintaining Africa’s biodiversity and protecting its remaining wildlife is undoubtedly one of the most pressing challenges in conservation today. Practical solutions for protecting Africa’s biodiversity and wildlife involve a multifaceted approach that combines community engagement, law enforcement, habitat restoration, sustainable land use, education, tourism, scientific research, and international cooperation. By addressing these challenges collaboratively and systematically, we can improve the long-term prospects for Africa’s wildlife and ecosystems.

Do you remain optimistic that coexistence between people and wildlife is possible in Africa?

Yes, I remain optimistic that coexistence between people and wildlife in Africa is achievable, though it requires collaboration and innovative solutions. Africa’s rich biodiversity coexists with rapidly growing human populations, creating both challenges and opportunities. My optimism stems from the growing recognition of wildlife’s value in supporting livelihoods, such as through eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture. 

Many communities now see the economic benefits of conservation, leading to successful initiatives like community-based programs where locals manage wildlife areas and reap the rewards. Inspiring examples abound, such as farmers using beehive fences to protect crops from elephants or working with conservation groups to create buffer zones and wildlife corridors. Governments are increasingly integrating conservation into national policies, acknowledging wildlife’s economic, cultural, and ecological importance. 

I also see hope in the younger generation’s passion for conservation, with rising awareness through education and media driving sustainable practices. While challenges remain, continued collaboration among governments, communities, and organisations can foster a future where both people and wildlife thrive together. Coexistence is not just possible – it’s within reach.

Is culture fuelling excessive salt intake among Nigerians?

Michael Simire
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Is culture fuelling excessive salt intake among Nigerians?

Salt has been an integral part of human existence since time immemorial. It is an important ingredient in our diets and is used by diverse populations regardless of race, age, status, religion and diversity. Salt has been an additive since ancient times due to its pivotal role in food processing and preservation.

Salt
Salt

In Nigeria, salt is used for different purposes, including expressing joy, hospitality, and acceptance at meetings and other occasions. It is also distributed as gifts and souvenirs at parties and sometimes as part of the items requested for bride price payment. Furthermore, salt is of spiritual significance as it is often used in rituals, prayers, initiations and sacrifices. In some communities, salt is believed to have medicinal properties leading to excessive consumption.

For economic reasons, salt and seasoning cubes may be used as a cheaper substitute for other natural seasonings or spices, which may be more expensive but provide better health and nutritional benefits. Because of this accessibility and affordability, they can be overused or abused in a way that could hurt human health.

Raised blood pressure, as a result of consuming high levels of sodium in salt, bouillon, monosodium glutamate (locally called “white Maggi”) and processed foods, increases the risk of kidney failure and cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes, which are now the leading cause of death and disabilities in developing countries like Nigeria.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the recommended daily limit for salt intake is 5g (less than a teaspoon), equivalent to 2g of sodium, but Nigeria currently records an alarmingly high estimated daily salt consumption reaching up to 10 grams. Dietary sodium comes from three distinct sources: packaged foods, food prepared outside the home (e.g., restaurants), and additional discretionary sources (adding salt to foods prepared at home during cooking or eating). However, sources of dietary sodium intake differ among populations.

Our cravings for salty and spicy food are socially acquired and largely influenced by culture and misleading marketing and advertising, hence it can be adjusted. Culture, a socially acquired knowledge system, can be transmitted from one generation to another. It consists of a collection of customs, beliefs, laws, religions, social precepts, arts, skills and other capabilities acquired by man as a member of his society.

It lays down norms and behaviours that secure an individual or group in his personal identity or social construct. Some of these cultural norms and beliefs have positive values that benefit mankind, while others are harmful. Cultural influences on high salt intake can be seen in various aspects of food choices, preparation, consumption and overall health. These cultural patterns vary across diverse populations for instance, in Nigerian culture, food plays a significant role in social gatherings and celebrations hence, salty foods and snacks may be served in public spaces contributing to excessive salt consumption.

Many traditional dishes such as soups, stews and sauces rely heavily on high-sodium condiments such as salt and bouillon (seasoning cubes) for flavour enhancement. Added to that is the age-long but still practised use of large quantities of salt as a preservative to extend the shelf life of fish, meat, fermented locust beans and vegetables.

According to a 2021 study by the National Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, which sampled Native Americans and Nigerians living in the United States, understanding cultural variations in diet and dietary practices that affect sodium intake has important implications for public health interventions. The study found, among others, that some of the interventions designed to reduce salt/sodium intake amongst indigenous Americans were less effective compared to Nigerians, primarily due to differences in their dietary sodium sources.

While Native Americans consumed excessive sodium largely from processed, packaged, store-bought and restaurant foods, Nigerians derived high sodium levels from processed foods, as well as indigenous soups, stews and sauces. These native meals are often made using a combination of salt, bouillon cubes, monosodium glutamate and other artificial seasonings. Considering that bouillon cubes already contain salt, disodium inosinate, monosodium glutamate, and hydrogenated oils, their combined use with cooking salt in homemade Nigerian dishes results in sodium intake levels that exceed WHO’s recommended limits.

As a result, public health interventions targeted towards reducing salt intake among Nigerians have been tailored to address the cultural patterns that increase consumption. These include education and awareness programs targeting women, as primary preparers of household food, as well as hotels, restaurants, and fast-food outlets. Educational interventions for children, such as incorporating salt reduction messages in school curriculums, have also been introduced.

In addition to education, setting mandatory salt targets for processed and pre-packaged foods, coupled with strict regulation and monitoring, is essential to ensure accountability and compliance by food industries.

Furthermore, implementing and enforcing front-of-pack warning labels is critical. These labels provide consumers with clear, easy-to-comprehend nutritional information at a glance, enabling informed decision-making and promoting healthier eating habits.

By Bukola Olukemi-Odele, food scientist, Programme Officer, Sodium Reduction at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA)

Peatlands degrading in 177 countries, putting climate goals at risk

Michael Simire
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Peatlands degrading in 177 countries, putting climate goals at risk

Some 177 out of 193 UN Member States have peatlands – critical carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots, yet agriculture, urbanisation, deforestation, and industrial activities put them – and the essential ecosystems services they provide – at risk everywhere. This is shown in the Global Peatland Hotspot Atlas, published on Thursday, November 21, 2024, by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). The atlas provides evidence for the need to enhance protection and restoration of peatlands, along with investments in research and monitoring.

Peatlands
Peatlands

The Global Peatland Hotspot Atlas: The State of the World’s Peatlands in Maps released during the UN Climate Change Conference in Baku (COP29), introduces updated hotspot maps of global peatland distribution, highlighting the threats they face and the opportunities for peatland restoration and conservation.

“Peatlands, nature’s carbon vaults, can make or break global climate goals,” said Susan Gardner, Director of the UNEP Ecosystems Division. “Found in almost every country, peatlands do not just store vast amounts of carbon, they provide essential services that millions of people rely on daily. Their protection is a fundamental investment in human wellbeing.”

Peatlands are unique and rare ecosystems that, despite only covering around 3-4% of the planet’s land surface, contain up to one-third of the world’s soil carbon, which is twice the amount of carbon found in the world’s forests. Locally, peatlands help regulate and purify water, support local livelihoods, and reduce the risks of fires, drought, and floods. The report finds that peatlands provide habitats for over 1,000 vulnerable‚ endangered and critically endangered plant and animal species. 

Beyond benefits to surrounding communities, protecting peatlands is critical for mitigating climate change. Degraded, they emit today 4 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions originating in human activities.

The report warns peatland degradation and subsidence due to drainage in the tropics for agriculture, livestock farming, and oil palm plantations. Thawing permafrost due to climate change is another key factor in their rapid degradation.

Overall, 500,000 hectares (~ 0.1%) of intact peatlands are destroyed annually by human activities in hotspots like East and Southeast Asia, while peatlands remain mostly intact in regions remote from international markets, within some (sub)arctic, boreal, and tropical zones.

The report builds on the 2022 Global Peatlands Assessment and continues to press decision-makers to prioritise peatland protection as a cost-effective climate solution, delivering multiple benefits to people, nature, and climate.

UNEP’s Global Peatlands Initiative (GPI) is at the forefront of advancing strategies for peatlands conservation, restoration, and sustainable management worldwide. Using the Global Peatland Hotspot Atlas, it promotes climate action in priority areas through holistic water management and a landscape approach.

Nasarawa Assembly lauded for summoning Chinese firm over mining pollution

Michael Simire
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Nasarawa Assembly lauded for summoning Chinese firm over mining pollution

Environmental advocacy groups have given the thumbs up to the Nasarawa State House of Assembly for summoning Chinese firm – Multiverse Synee Mining Company Limited to appear before it on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at the Assembly complex for questioning over mining impacts in Abuni community, Awe Local Government Area of the state.

Mining
Fact finding visit led by Adamu Omadefu

The groups – Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN) and Citizens Free Service Forum (CFSF) – had petitioned the Nasarawa State House of Assembly through the Chair, Committee on Environment, Adamu Omadefu, on October 3, 2024, following a save-our-soul from locals.

The community had complained about pollution of the Rafin Jaki River and a host of other infractions including indiscriminate rock blasting and insensitivity to their plight after several complaints.

RDI, EDEN and CFSF had also met with Omadefu earlier this week requested that the Assembly carry out a fact-finding visit to the community as well as Uke District where similar environmental challenges were being faced by the locals due to illegal mining.

In a swift response to the request, Mohammed Adamu Omadefu, the Chairman of the committee led other members of the committee to visit Multiverse Synee Limited mining sites in Abuni community, and Akurba, Lafia LGA respectively on Tuesday 26 November 2024 where they inspected the environment and informed the firm that the committee was there to ascertain if the company fulfilled all the constitutional requirements to work in the state.

Omadefu said that the Assembly wants to know what is happening in Nasarawa communities and will not allow what is happening in oil bearing communities of the Niger Delta to happen in Nasarawa State.

He also heard from community youths including Umar Shuaibu, the Youth Leader of Abuni, who expressed disappointment with the company for failing to fulfill all the agreement reached with the community on provision of roads, electricity, scholarships and a hospital, among others.

In a reaction to the summons on the firm, RDI Executive Director, Philip Jakpor, said: “We want to commend the Nasarawa State House of Assembly and particularly the chair of the committee on environment, Hon. Omadefu for the pro-activeness in inviting the firm accused by locals of violating their environment. We are determined to continue working with the Nasarawa State government in ensuring that in the extraction of lithium and other minerals in the state, the people and the environment are not impacted negatively.”

Reacting, EDEN Executive Director, Chima Williams, said: “This feat is not only commendable. We encourage Hon, Omadefu and indeed the entire Nasarawa State House of Assembly to remain steadfast because we know there are big shots backing the illegality that the House is now confronting. We promise our sustained support for this course.”

In a similar vein, CFSF Executive Director, Comrade Sani Baba, said: “The Nasarawa State House of Assembly acting through the committee on environment has sided with the people in the decision to stop the environmental crisis in Abuni and other parts of Nasarawa. We commend them and urge them to refuse any form of intimidation in forcing the mining firms to behave responsibly. Anything short of this is a time bomb.”

Among a host of requests in the petition, the three organisations are calling for a comprehensive environmental audit of Abuni, Uke district and environs. They also want the government to revoke the mining license of any mining firm found wanting of breaching Nigeria’s environmental laws, and scrutiny of agreements reached between mining firms and traditional rulers in the mining communities.

NEMA highlights inter-agency synergy in national emergencies

Michael Simire
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NEMA highlights inter-agency synergy in national emergencies

The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, has emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration among federal government agencies during national emergencies.

Zubaida Umar
Director-General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar

Umar made this statement in Abuja on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at a simulation exercise organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with NEMA.

The exercise aimed to evaluate inter-agency cooperation and identify potential bottlenecks. It simulated a mass casualty incident, requiring efficient evacuation and medical treatment of victims.

Umar, represented by Air Commodore Kennedy Mataluwo, observed as teams from 15 agencies, including NEMA, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and Nigeria Police, coordinated their efforts seamlessly.

Umar stressed the importance of preparedness and public awareness, highlighting the nationwide initiative “Eagle Eye,” designed to enhance road safety and emergency response.

She reassured that help would be swift and effective in real emergencies.

“The simulation was not only a test of logistics but also a testament to the dedication of those involved in safeguarding lives.”

According to her, as agencies worked together, the importance of such exercises in ensuring readiness for real-world incidents became increasingly clear.

Rear Adm. Robert Obeyah, Director of the Presidential Communications Command and Control Centre, emphasised the significance of collaboration and teamwork.

“No agency is superior or inferior; we all share a common goal in safeguarding Nigeria,” he said.

Mr. Labaran Auman, Chief Operations Office, NEMA, noted that the simulation exercise demonstrated stakeholders’ readiness to collaborate effectively in real crises, showcasing a unified effort to save lives and enhance national safety.

By Philomina Attah

Plateau, REA sign MoU to boost solar power in communities

Michael Simire
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Plateau, REA sign MoU to boost solar power in communities

The Plateau State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to boost power supply in rural communities using of solar energy.

REA
Signing of MoU between the REA and Plateau State Government

This is contained in a statement by Mr. Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs (DOPPA) to Gov. Caleb Mutfwang, issued on Wednesday, November 26, 2024, in Jos.

Signing the MoU on behalf of the state, Mutfwang explained that the move would foster a strategic and long-term collaboration aimed at scaling electrification strategies for the development and operation of sustainable power solutions across the state.

He said tha tthe initiative is also aimed at providing decentralised solar power solutions to the unserved and underserved rural communities and ensuring reliable and sustainable energy access across the state.

“This underscores our immense potential in renewable energy and my administration is committed to enhancing the capacity of to he Nigerian Electricity Supply Corporation (NESCO), where the state government holds a major stake.

“I want to assure prospective investors of a conducive business environment, we will address all bureaucratic bottlenecks and security concerns to facilitate smooth operations.

“My administration is ready to provide necessary approvals, including land allocation, community engagements and other incentives, so that we can leverage technology to enhance security across the state.

“My desire is to position Plateau as Nigeria’s industrial hub for renewable energy in two years,” Bere quoted Mutfwang

Speaking, Mr Abba Aliyu, the Managing Director of REA, commended Mutfwang for the vision toward revitalising the energy sector being a a major driver of economic growth in the state.

Aliyu decried that the state’s current access to electricity is poor in spite of its vast agricultural potential, but promised that REA would collaborate with the government to overcome all challenges.

He, however, expressed confidence in Plateau’s potential to attract renewable energy investments in the near future.

The managing director further disclosed that a company had already expressed interest in investing $150 million in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector, with Plateau as a beneficiary.

By Polycarp Auta

Tobacco harm reduction strategy ‘will save 416,000 Nigerian lives’

Michael Simire
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Tobacco harm reduction strategy ‘will save 416,000 Nigerian lives’

More than 400,000 Nigerian lives could be saved if policymakers adopt a progressive approach to tobacco harm reduction (THR), according to landmark research by leading international health experts.

Tobacco smoking
Tobacco smoking

Their ground-breaking report, released this week, outlines how integrating alternative nicotine products such as vapes and nicotine pouches into Nigeria’s tobacco control framework could dramatically reduce the nation’s tobacco-related death toll.

According to the report, titled “Saving 600,000 Lives in Nigeria and Kenya”, 3.5 million Nigerians currently smoke, and each year 26,851 Nigerians die from tobacco-related illnesses.

While the World Health Organisation (WHO) projects those tobacco-related deaths will drop to 18,000 annually by 2060, the experts argue that this number remains far too high.

By adopting THR strategies, they estimate that the annual tobacco-related death toll could be reduced to 7,600 by 2060, saving over 416,000 lives in the process.

“We have a clear opportunity to significantly reduce the burden of tobacco-related diseases in Nigeria,” said Derek Yach, one of the report’s authors and former leader of the Foundation for a Smoke Free World. “By embracing safer alternatives like vapes and nicotine pouches, Nigeria can drastically lower tobacco-related deaths and help smokers quit more effectively. Tobacco harm reduction is the key to saving lives and improving public health in Nigeria.”

The use of THR products has already been proven to reduce smoking rates in countries such as the UK, Sweden, Japan and New Zealand. In these nations, the widespread adoption of e-cigarettes and other nicotine alternatives has led to a marked decline in cigarette consumption, the leading cause of tobacco-related diseases.

“The success stories from other countries are undeniable,” said Dr. Delon Human, co-author of the report and founder of the African Harm Reduction Alliance. “In nations where tobacco harm reduction is embraced, smoking rates are dropping, and lives are being saved. Nigeria can achieve similar results by adopting a more inclusive tobacco control policy that incorporates both standard measures and access to these life-saving alternatives.”

The report calls on Nigerian policymakers to take bold steps in reducing tobacco-related harm by considering the introduction of safer nicotine products into the national health strategy. By offering smokers alternatives that are far less harmful than combustible cigarettes, Nigeria could make significant progress toward its public health goals.

“As Nigeria’s leaders continue to refine tobacco control measures, they have a unique opportunity to reduce tobacco-related harm while empowering smokers with the tools to quit,” Dr. Yach added. “With the right policy choices, Nigeria can not only improve the health of its citizens but also set an example for the rest of Africa.”

By Joseph Magero

GMOs not safe for Nigerians, CAC ambassador tells NASS

Michael Simire
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GMOs not safe for Nigerians, CAC ambassador tells NASS

A renowned brand manager and ambassador for the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Mr. Michael Nwabufo, has urged the National Assembly to take a decision against Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) foods in Nigeria.

GMOs rally
The GMO rally in Lagos

There have been controversies around the health safety of GMO plants, being propagated by Bill Gates, the American businessman and philanthropist best known for his roles at Microsoft Corporation.

Nwabufo, popularly known as Mike Premium, made the call when he appeared before the House of Representatives on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, over a video production on the danger of GMO foods.

He urged the National Assembly to act decisively to protect Nigerian people and preserve the nation’s sovereignty.

“I stand here today as a patriot and a servant of the people, committed to building a healthier and more self-reliant Nigeria.

“I believe in the resilience of this National Assembly to make decisions that prioritise the welfare of Nigerians.

“I am glad that the House of Representatives are standing by us to kick against Genetically Modified Organism called GMO foods,” Nwabufo said.

He urged the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, to rescind his support for GMO foods in the country.

According to him, the minister cannot take decision of such magnitude that bothers on Nigerians’ wellbeing without recourse to the people and their representatives in the parliaments.

Nwabufo called on the minister to engage in thorough scientific and evidence-based researches in certified laboratories to check the safety of GMO foods in Nigeria, before giving in to the proponents and defending plants.

According to him, some farmers have been brainwashed in Nigeria about GMO seeds.

He said that such people and farmers in their defence of GMO seeds, were saying: “It is better to eat GMO foods and die than not to see food to eat”.

Nwabufo said a lot of Nigerians seemed to be in the dark when it comes to food security.

He added: “Whoever controls our food controls our life forget every other thing and focus. This danger is looming!

“I believe the NASS knows what to do with the information we have brought, I believe in your capacity to end this.

“I want to hit the nail on the head, I believe none us wants to die young.

“With the threat of Genetically Modified Organisms, without any form of contradictions, Bill Gates and his foundation have invested heavily in our agriculture and healthcare sectors, introducing GMOs to Nigeria.”

According to him, for example “Tella maize” created in laboratories, have been banned in several countries, including Russia, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovenia, and some parts of the UK, such as Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

He said that some of these nations had taken such steps due to some concerns.

Nwabufo said that such concerns included the fact that “if you plant these seeds in our soil, you won’t be able to replant them again but depend on Bill Gates to always supply nations with his lab-made seeds instead of the one created by God.”

Nwabufo, who noted that GMOs had health risks and environmental impact, among others, urged the NASS to assess and regulate them through conducting thorough research and risk assessments before approving their widespread use in Nigeria.

He called for promotion of transparency in healthcare, investment in local solutions and safeguard of the nation’s biodiversity.

“There are potential dangers to human health, including reduced lifespan and vulnerability to diseases.

“GMOs can harm ecosystems, disrupt biodiversity, and threaten traditional farming practices because their long-term safety remains unproven.

“There is the need to ensure that all healthcare interventions are subjected to rigorous safety checks.

“We must support the development of indigenous agricultural and medicinal practices to reduce reliance on foreign entities.

“We must protect Nigeria’s rich agricultural heritage and natural ecosystems.

“Indigenous crops, which are a critical part of our heritage, are at risk of being overshadowed by lab-engineered alternatives,” Nwabufo said.

According to him, in countries like India and even parts of America, there have been reports linking GMO usage to harmful effects on both people and the environment.

“Bill Gates is a billionaire in dollars, why does he think he can make more money investing in a country like Nigeria at this time if he does not have ulterior motive?

“He has spend millions of dollars pushing this agenda I personal tag population control,” Nwabufo said.

Expressing concerns about Bill Gates interventions in Nigeria’s healthcare, the CAC ambassador said that the nation must critically examine the foundation’s involvement.

He said: “There have been cases where vaccines, such as the polio vaccine, caused unintended harm instead of saving lives.

“While modern medicine has its place, we must ensure transparency and safety in any foreign interventions.

“Our ancestors lived long, healthy lives relying on natural remedies, herbs, and clean water.

“I am not advocating for a complete rejection of modern science, but I believe in preserving and modernising our traditional practices to build a sustainable and healthy future for Nigeria.”

By Mercy Omoike

Africa’s progress on SDGs faces mounting challenges – ASDR report

Michael Simire
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Africa’s progress on SDGs faces mounting challenges – ASDR report

The African Sustainable Development Report (ASDR) 2024 restates that progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2063 has continued to mount challenges.

SDGs
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The ASDR 2024 report was unveiled on the sideline of the African Economic Conference in Gaborone, Botswana.

The report was jointly produced by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the African Union.

The report was presented by Dr Oyebanke Abejirin, Officer-in-Charge, Development Planning, Macroeconomics Finance and Governance Division of ECA.

Abejirin quoted the report as saying that less than six per cent of the 32 measurable SDG targets are on track for achievement by 2030.

“Amid economic headwinds like high debt burdens, inflation, and limited financing, the report underscores an urgent need for accelerated action to address poverty, hunger, climate change, governance, and partnerships.

“The ASDR 2024 provides a comprehensive analysis of Africa’s progress using the latest available data, albeit with notable limitations due to data lags.

“The report examines SDGs and Agenda 2063 goals through regional lenses and aligns its thematic focus with the annual high-level political forum themes.

“This year, the focus is on SDG 1 (poverty), SDG 2 (hunger), SDG 13 (climate action), SDG 16 (peace and justice), and SDG 17 (partnerships),’’ she said.

She said the report findings indicated that Africa was regressing on key indicators as poverty remained a significant challenge, with over 55 million Africans pushed into poverty in 2020 alone.

Abejirin said more than half of the global poor now reside in Africa, and extreme child poverty was alarmingly high, with seven out of ten of the world’s poorest children living on the continent.

According to her, employment, often seen as a remedy for poverty, offers little reprieve as one in three employed Africans remains poor, compared to a global average of 6.38 per cent.

“Food insecurity and hunger have worsened post-COVID-19, with 61 million additional people facing undernourishment and 60 per cent of Africa’s population experiencing moderate to severe food insecurity.

“The cost of healthy diets has risen significantly, compounding the crisis. Climate change presents a mixed picture.

“Africa’s per capita emissions remain low at one ton versus a global average of 4.7 tons, yet the continent bears significant impacts from climate events,’’ she said.

The AfDB stated that climate finance had remained woefully inadequate, covering just 11 per cent of the 277 billion dollars needed annually to address the crisis.

Abejirin said while African nations have made strides in signing strategic frameworks like the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, implementation remains inconsistent.

She said: “Governance challenges persist, with corruption and illicit financial flows siphoning 88.6 billion dollars annually.

“Reports of bribery have surged, and conflict-related deaths, although reduced by 86 per cent, are overshadowed by an increase in the number of conflicts across the continent.

“On a positive note, female representation in African parliaments has grown, surpassing Agenda 2063 targets. Partnerships for development face significant hurdles,’’ she said.

The AfDB official stated that official development assistance (ODA) had remained below the 0.7 per cent target, and foreign direct investment, though rebounding to 83 billion dollars in 2021, lagged behind its 2014 peak.

According to her, debt distress has also weighed heavily on African economies, complicating development efforts.

Abejirin said the ASDR’s policy recommendations included scaling concessionary financing, integrating SDG and Agenda 2063 goals into national plans, strengthening agricultural infrastructure, and leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“These strategies, if implemented, can help reverse negative trends and place Africa on a more sustainable trajectory,” she said.

Abejirin said the ASDR 2024 serves as both a wake-up call and a roadmap for African nations and their development partners to accelerate progress amid growing challenges.

By Lucy Ogalue

Wars, extreme weather conditions displace 35m people in Africa – Report

Michael Simire
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Wars, extreme weather conditions displace 35m people in Africa – Report

Wars and extreme weather conditions have driven up the number of people in Africa who are fleeing within their own country.

WHO IDP camp
Internally Displaced Persons queuing up for water at Muna IDPs camp. Photo credit: WHO/CE.Onuekwe

A report by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), published in Geneva on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, says around 35 million Africans are living as refugees and displaced people within their own countries as of 2023.

The number of internally displaced people has tripled within 15 years, according to the report.

Almost half of all internally displaced people worldwide live on the African continent.

Most of them, or 32.5 million people, have fled from violence and armed conflicts.

Five countries – Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Somalia – accommodate 80 per cent of the refugees and displaced people.

Many of these people are forced to flee over a longer period or multiple times.

However, extreme weather conditions such as droughts and floods are increasingly becoming causes of flight.

According to the report, the number of internally displaced people rose from 1.1 million in 2009 to 6.3 million at the end of last year.

Since more extreme weather events are expected as a result of climate change, the number of people fleeing from natural disasters is likely to continue to rise.

In some countries, such as Somalia and Sudan, the causes of flight also overlap, with people first fleeing from conflict, and later from flooding, for example. 

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