Washington Post: Opinion: George W. Bush’s words that saved millions – 10 years ago, President George W. Bush proposed the Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, as a “work of mercy beyond all current international efforts to help the people of Africa.” The PEPFAR initiative was “the largest effort to fight a single disease in history” and “was utterly unexpected.” Bush announced PEPFAR despite the fact that his political supporters had not demanded the initiative, and his critics would remain suspicious for some time. PEPFAR “existed entirely because of a willing leader, a creative policy team, a smattering of activists and a vast, bleeding need.” (Michael Gerson)
Guardian: Decentralise malaria diagnosis and treatment in Africa – While investments in malaria research have yielded numerous interventions to control the disease, its “burden continues to be felt among the poorest.” The main challenge in malaria control in Africa is “improving access to effective malaria diagnosis and treatment.” In many countries in Africa, there are networks of community health workers actively involved in health promotion and distribution of malaria rapid diagnostic test kits, which “offers a perfect opportunity for improved malaria diagnosis at the community level.” (George Okello and Nina Cromeyer Dieke)
Business Insider: Why People Are Rushing To Invest In Africa Like Never Before – A resource boom in Africa has meant more investment, “and the area is projected to grow rapidly for years to come.” Of the top ten most important investment destinations in the world today, six are in Africa. While the continent is becoming more politically stable, “doing business in Africa is fundamentally an exercise in risk and entrepreneurship.” (Max Nisen)
AP: A first in Kenya: A presidential debate. Millions tune in 3 weeks before elections – Millions of Kenyans tuned in and listened to the nation’s first-ever presidential debate, which took place three weeks before the elections. The debate covered a range of issues, including the role tribal affiliation plays in the distribution of jobs and resources, corruption in the government, education and health care. Moderators, candidates and an audience of about 200 people asked questions. The debate focused on the two front-runners: Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, who currently faces crimes against humanity charges at the ICC, and Prime Minister Raila Odinga. A second debate is scheduled for February 25.
