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For decades polio was one of the most dreaded diseases in the world. Caused by a highly infectious virus, it multiplies in the intestine and attacks the central nervous system, causing paralysis. In 1988 a global resolution was taken to eradicate the disease. The concerted effort paid off – by 2019 the number of cases had dropped by 99.9%. Africa is the latest region to be certified polio free by the World Health Organisation, leaving only Pakistan and Afghanistan as endemic countries. Charles Shey Wiysonge looks at the broader benefits Africa’s polio eradication programme has delivered for health services on the continent.
The Somali government’s decision not to afford the legendary singer and actress Baxsan a state funeral caused unhappiness in the country. Over six decades Seynab Haji Ali Siigaale became one of the most popular voices in Somalia, tapping into strong pro-independence sentiments, and giving voice to the post-independence mood. She joyfully encouraged the new nation state, and became a national figure through wars with Ethiopia. She also endured the return of the military regime and the civil war. Somali scholar Mohamed Haji Ingiriis pays tribute to her astonishing life and career.
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The polio eradication programme in Africa directly combated a severe debilitating disease.
Yasuyoshi Chiba / AFP via Getty Images
Charles Shey Wiysonge, South African Medical Research Council
The polio eradication programme in Africa directly combated a severe debilitating disease. But it also provided a platform for broader healthcare services on the continent.
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The famed singer Baxsan in her later years.
Screengrab/Youtube
Mohamed Haji Ingiriis, University of Oxford
Baxsan's tumultuous six-decade journey as a singer was irrevocably tied to Somalia's national identity and cultural history.
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Politics + Society
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David E Kiwuwa, University of Nottingham
Tanzania's October poll shows that elections are purely performative for governments which do not adhere to the basic tenets of democracy.
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Roman Hoffmann, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research
Changing climatic conditions and ecological hazards are an important migration driver in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Arts + Culture
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Usman A. Ojedokun, University of Ibadan
Has the digital revolution in Nigeria influenced crime-fighting and law enforcement?
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Monica Germanà, University of Westminster
Sean Connery is widely thought of as the "best Bond". A film expert ranks his top five films in the role.
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