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Ebola Survivors Fight Disease As DR Congo Outbreak Rages On

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Eniola Olayemi

 

DR Congo confirmed a record number of Ebola cases in one day on Wednesday, as stigma continues to surround survivors.

Dozens of Congolese Ebola survivors are dispelling rumours and caring for patients and lone children in the world’s second-deadliest outbreak, health workers said on Thursday.

The virus is spreading fast in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with 713 confirmed and probable cases and 439 deaths. It is surpassed only by the 2014-2016 outbreaks in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, in which more than 11,000 people died.

Nearly 250 patients in the DRC have recovered since the outbreak began in July. Research has shown that the disease gives survivors immunity.

“I like this work very much,” said Lydie Besolo, an 18-year-old in the town of Beni who survived Ebola and now spends her afternoons after school working as a nurse in a health centre run by medical charity Doctors Without Borders (known by their French acronym, MSF).

“I tell (the patients) my story. It helps them,” she said, adding that she hopes to be a doctor someday.

Health workers say one of the biggest challenges in this outbreak has been dispelling rumours about the disease. Suspicious of foreign intervention and political plots, locals have attacked volunteers and refused vaccines.

Ebola struck during a politically tense period in Congo, ahead of December’s election to end President Joseph Kabila’s 17-year rule.

At the last minute, the electoral commission cancelled voting in Beni and other Ebola-stricken areas, which are opposition strongholds.

“I tell them that it’s not politics, it’s a real disease,” said Modeste Kasereka Kikopo, 26, a survivor who works in the MSF centre as an electrician and helps spread awareness.

The charity said that about 20 survivors work in its centre in Beni, mostly looking after patients.

Twelve survivors work in a nursery for children who have been separated from their parents, said the United Nations children’s agency UNICEF, while up to 40 survivors are part of community engagement efforts run by the Red Cross.

“Ebola survivors are a critical entry point to build trust in the community,” said Jamie LeSueur, head of operations for the Ebola response for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

 

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Health

Rainy Season: LAWMA Completes Rehabilitation of Olusosun Dumpsite

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…calls for responsible waste disposal

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

As the rains approach, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has completed the rehabilitation of Olusosun dumpsite, to ensure smooth waste disposal operations across the state.

Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, who made this known in a statement on Thursday, said the maintenance effort was aimed at improving operational efficiency in anticipation of the rainy season.

He said, “Our primary objective in rehabilitating Olusosun dumpsite is to ensure that waste disposal trucks can navigate through the dumpsite seamlessly, even in adverse weather conditions, especially during heavy rainfall when logistical challenges tend to arise”.

Dr. Gbadegesin stated that, in addition to the recently completed maintenance efforts, LAWMA was focused on enhancing operational efficiency to improve turnaround times for waste disposal trucks, adding that the rehabilitation would significantly reduce queue times, translating to faster and more effective waste collection services.

“Our commitment to environmental sustainability extends beyond operational enhancements. We urge residents to join us in prioritising responsible waste disposal practices to safeguard our environment”, he stressed.

The LAWMA boss further highlighted the importance of proper waste disposal, urging residents to avoid dumping waste in drains, especially during the rainy season, known for disrupting the drainage system and posing serious environmental risks to lives and properties.

“We encourage residents to patronise accredited Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators for their waste disposal needs. By supporting licensed operators, individuals contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment for all”, he reiterated.

The Managing Director emphasised the importance of residents familiarising themselves with their PSPs, who play a vital role in waste management at the local level, adding that, by understanding and engaging with their designated PSP operators, residents could ensure efficient and effective waste disposal services in their communities.

“We are committed to facilitating this process by publishing detailed PSP contacts for all areas in the state. This initiative aims to empower residents to take ownership of waste management practices in their neighborhoods, ultimately contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for all”, he assured.

For more information about LAWMA’s initiatives and how to support efforts to maintain a clean environment, please visit www.lawma.gov.ng or call our toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617.

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Entertainment

Singer, Okiki Bright Speaks on “Ambition” Album, Industry Struggles in New Explosive Interview

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

on the 6th of November, 2023, Nigerian Fuji musician Okiki Bright released his much-anticipated album, “Ambition.” Distributed and marketed by Role Model Entertainment, this album marks a significant milestone in Okiki Bright’s career, and it’s already making waves in the music industry. Today, the artist took to the airwaves at Fresh FM in Ibadan for an exclusive interview hosted by Alhaji Saheed Babatunde, where he delved into the various aspects of the album and shared insights on the challenges within the music industry.

“Ambition” on All Streaming Platforms
Before diving into the interview details, it’s worth noting that “Ambition” is now available on all major streaming platforms. Listeners can enjoy the fusion of indigenous Fuji rhythms with contemporary melodies that Okiki Bright brings to life through this album. The music promises to be a captivating auditory experience, staying true to the didactic traditions of the genre while embracing innovation.

Insights from the Interview
During the interview at Fresh FM, Okiki Bright opened up about his journey, the inspiration behind “Ambition,” and the struggles he’s faced in the music industry. He discussed how his music is a bridge between tradition and modernity, much like his mentor, Chief Adewale Ayuba. The artist emphasized the importance of cultural narratives and morals in his compositions and how they are presented on danceable modern rhythms, creating not just music but a cultural experience for his audience.

The interview shed light on the enduring power of mentorship in the music industry and the coexistence of diverse musical styles, carrying on the torch lit by legends like Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. Okiki Bright’s journey and his latest album exemplify the fusion of tradition and ambition within the rich tapestry of Nigerian music.

As “Ambition” continues to gain traction on streaming platforms, music enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the cultural and musical experience that Okiki Bright brings to life. The interview at Fresh FM not only provided insights into the album but also underscored the artist’s dedication to preserving the rich heritage of Fuji music while pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Stay tuned for more updates on Okiki Bright’s musical journey and the ongoing success of “Ambition,” as it leaves an indelible mark on the Nigerian music scene.

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Health

LAWMA Organises Medical Checks For Sweepers

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has organised a free medical screening, for over 1000 sanitation workers (street sweepers) August24news.com has learnt.

The event took place at the Authority’s headquarters, Ijora Olopa. Lagos.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Managing Director of LAWMA, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, noted that the exercise was a testament to the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, to prioritise the wellness of LAWMA sweepers.

He said, “Your well-being is our priority. Whatever happens to your health, will affect us in one way or the other. Therefore, we don’t want
any ill-health to befall you.

Today, your blood pressure, sugar level, urine and eye and hepatitis will be checked for proper diagnosis.

The aim of this is to manage the health of our workers and detect early health issues.

Our sweepers are our heroes, we need to take good care of them. We have over 16,000 of them who keep Lagos clean everyday. Our aim is to ensure we capture all of them in this screening exercise and there will be follow ps.

Some will be administered for consultation, some will be for referral, some will be given medications. All of these is to ensure their health is properly managed.

We appreciate the Governor for his
consistent support”.

The Medical Director of LAWMA, Dr. (Mrs.) Modupe Okoh, noted that the medical screening exercise was a demonstration of the state’s commitment to the welfare of LAWMA’s workforce, adding that early detection of
diseases would go a long way in helping to manage the health of sweepers who work tirelessly.

One of the beneficiaries, Nafisat Rahman, appreciated the state government for the medical checks.  In her words: “We do spend a lot on hospital bills, but with this kind of initiative, it will reduce it and we will be more aware of our health status. I want them to continue with this kind of exercise”, she said.

Another beneficiary, Godwin Imeh, said the medical screening exercise was a nice initiative. He encouraged the Authority to continue to
prioritise the welfare of sweepers.

In attendance at the event were members of LAWMA’s management staff.

The medical outreach for LAWMA’s sanitation workers is a continuous exercise, with sweepers in other districts in the state set to benefit from the health screening.

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