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Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI: AONDevices and H&S HighTech Forge Strategic Alliance to Expand Super-Low-Power, Always-On Edge AI Globally

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IRVINE, Calif. and DAEJEON, South Korea, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AONDevices, Inc., a pioneer in super-low-power, always-on edge AI technology, and H&S HighTech Corp., a global leader in semiconductor and electronics distribution, today announced a strategic alliance aimed at accelerating the worldwide adoption of next-generation always-on AI solutions. As part of the partnership, H&S HighTech has made a strategic investment in AONDevices and will serve as its preferred distributor and strategic partner across Korea and select international markets.

    Smarter Devices, Powered by Always-On, Super-Low-Power AI
    From TV remotes and smart wearables to connected health monitors and industrial sensors, the demand for embedded, always-on intelligence is growing rapidly. Yet most processors fall short when it comes to delivering real-time responsiveness without draining battery life. AONDevices addresses this challenge head-on with highly efficient AI processors built for sub-milliwatt, always-on operation – delivering best-in-class accuracy at ultra-low power.

    Target Devices and Markets

    • Consumer & Personal Electronics: TV remotes, headsets, smart home appliances, wearables, and security systems
    • Mobility, Health & Industrial Monitoring: Automotive systems, industrial sensors, and connected health monitors

    Always-On Edge AI Example Use Cases Include:

    • Wake word and voice command recognition
    • Acoustic event and scene detection (AED/ASD)
    • Gesture and activity recognition
    • Environmental sensing and contextual awareness
    • Speaker identification
    • Multi-modal sensor fusion

    Flexible, Future-Ready AI Architecture
    The AONDevices platform is built for modern edge applications that demand real-time performance, ultra-low power, and data privacy. Supporting both fully offline and hybrid edge plus cloud deployments, the architecture enables secure, always-on experiences in devices that need to operate continuously – on a single battery charge.

    “This partnership with H&S HighTech marks a significant step in AONDevices’ global growth strategy,” said Mouna Elkhatib, CEO of AONDevices. “We’re excited to combine our cutting-edge always-on edge AI technology with H&S HighTech’s market strength to deliver smarter, more efficient devices to customers worldwide.”

    “We believe AONDevices is redefining what’s possible with always-on edge AI,” said Kim Jung-hee, CEO of H&S HighTech. “Their ultra-low-power capabilities are exactly what our customers need to enable intelligent, next-generation devices across industries.”

    Why AONDevices Stands Out

    • Industry-Leading Power Efficiency: For always-on AI applications
    • High Accuracy with Tiny Footprint: Neural networks under 50KB
    • End-to-End AI Enablement: Hardware plus software plus deployment tools
    • Sensor Fusion: Audio, motion, environmental sensing
    • Flexible Engagement Model: Customizable for OEMs
    • Momentum with Tier-1 OEMs: Across multiple markets

    About H&S HighTech
    H&S HighTech is a global leader in high-performance electronic components and semiconductor distribution, with expertise spanning semiconductors, display technology, and electronic packaging. Notably, it is the No. 1 manufacturer in Korea for ACF (Anisotropic Conductive Film), crystals, and oscillators – offering optimized solutions for next-generation AI and machine learning applications. By consistently delivering cutting-edge products and services worldwide, H&S HighTech continues to invest in and collaborate on innovative technologies to drive the future of the electronics and semiconductor industry as a strategic partner, rather than a mere supplier.

    For more information, visit: www.hnshightech.com

    About AONDevices
    AONDevices, Inc. is a leader in ultra-low-power, high-accuracy edge AI solutions, redefining what is possible in always-on, battery-operated devices. Harnessing innovative chip architectures, lightweight neural networks, and RISC-V-based hardware, AONDevices achieves exceptional AI performance at ultra-low power consumption.

    Its scalable solutions enable advanced features such as wake word detection, voice commands, acoustic event recognition, gestures, motion tracking, and environmental context awareness. From personal devices and smart home systems to automotive technologies, AONDevices supports the creation of intelligent, energy-efficient, and privacy-focused products.

    For more information, visit www.aondevices.com.

    Media Contact:
    Stephanie Olsen
    Lages & Associates
    (949) 453-8080
    stephanie@lages.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CT DEEP Releases New Wildlife Action Plan with Support from UConn’s CAHNR

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    A group of researchers in the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment provided critical support for the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)’s latest Wildlife Action Plan.

    The UConn team was led by College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) faculty Chadwick Rittenhouse, associate professor in residence and associate department head; Tracy Rittenhouse, associate professor; and Ph.D. student Kathryn Bischoff ‘22 (CAHNR).

    This is the third Wildlife Action Plan that Connecticut, along with every other U.S. state, has released. The first report was released in 2005 following a federal requirement that states create a plan for wildlife conservation every 10 years. The plans identify animal species of greatest conservation need, their habitats, and the challenges they face. By identifying these priorities, states can better direct conservation, policy, and research. Funding for this planning effort was provided in part by State and Tribal Wildlife Grants, a program providing funding to states for biodiversity conservation.

    The Belted Kingfisher is one of over 1,000 species identified in the 2025 Connecticut Wildlife Action Plan as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN). SGCN include plants, invertebrates, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. (Paul J. Fusco/CT DEEP Wildlife Division)

    A draft of the plan was released last week and is open for public comment until July 27.

    During the public comment period, anyone can provide feedback on the list of species and habitats in need of conservation, the types of actions they would be most interested in taking in their community, or any other part of the plan.

    “That public review is a very important part of wildlife management and conservation,” Tracy Rittenhouse says. “There’s a long, long list of potential actions that can be taken, and hopefully some of those actions resonate with different people who can see that list and say, ‘I can do that’ or ‘my group, we can do this’.”

    DEEP and the UConn team worked closely with a diverse group of stakeholders in the state, including the Connecticut Audubon Society, the Nature Conservancy, land trusts, fish and game clubs, community groups like garden clubs, organizations based in urban areas, as well as municipal and town governments in developing the plan. The creation of this plan also included “Taxa teams” who contributed detailed knowledge about specific groups of animals – like mammals, amphibians, insects, or birds.

    “From UConn’s perspective, I really do value the relationship with the state agency and their willingness to partner with people who have the expertise, who have the abilities, who have that desire to contribute to conservation in the state,” Chadwick Rittenhouse says.

    Some of the concrete conservation actions in the plan include things like protecting land, vegetation management, habitat restoration efforts, increasing enforcement of existing protection laws, and continuing research and monitoring to learn more about high-priority species.

    Compared to the version released in 2015, the 2025 plan reflects the development of a greater understanding of not only which species are in greatest need of conservation, but where in the state they live. This is one of the key contributions the UConn team made to the plan, identifying “Conservation Opportunity Areas.”

    By identifying these areas, the plan can operate alongside local governments as they make decisions about planning and zoning, conservation groups that have their own maps, and highlight where education and engagement resources, like nature centers, could be added to better support conservation goals in these areas.

    “It’s bringing a whole bunch of ecological and social data together to prioritize all those different actions and plan where on the landscape different partners can take action,” Bischoff says.

    The UConn team is also developing a web-enabled plan with interactive resources for towns and community partners. This will include interactive maps and species profiles. It is scheduled to come out later this year.

    “There are a lot of people involved, and there’s a lot of motivation and goodwill to do things well for conservation in the state,” Chadwick Rittenhouse says. “We’re really optimistic that good things will come for wildlife and fisheries in the state through this effort.”

    This work relates to CAHNR’s Strategic Vision area focused on Fostering Sustainable Landscapes at the Urban-Rural Interface, and Advancing Adaptation and Resilience in a Changing Climate.

    Follow UConn CAHNR on social media

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Despite Ad Bans, Young Children Frequently See Junk Food Promotions on YouTube and YouTube Kids

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    There’s a new star in your child’s favorite YouTube videos: junk food. 

    Messages promoting candy, sugar-sweetened drinks, fast food, and sweet or salty snacks brands frequently appear during videos viewed by 3- to -8-year-olds on YouTube and YouTube Kids, according to a new paper from researchers at the UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health.  

    This is the first study to measure young (ages 3 to 8) children’s actual exposure to food brands while watching YouTube or YouTube Kids videos of their own choice on their own mobile devices. To mimic their typical video viewing habits, 101 children used their own mobile devices to watch videos on the YouTube platform of their choice, YouTube or YouTube Kids, for 30 minutes in their own homes. 

    The study’s findings, published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, found that 75% of 6- to 8-year-olds and 36% of 3- to 5-year-olds viewed promotions for unhealthy food and beverage brands, averaging 7 such messages during 30 minutes of video watching. Moreover, some 6- to 8-year-olds saw alcohol ads while watching YouTube videos.  

    The majority of food brand appearances (73%) promoted candy, sugar-sweetened drinks, fast food or other restaurants, and sweet or salty snacks. Healthy products (including water, plain milk, 100% juice) made up just 3% of appearances. Food and beverage brands appeared more often when children watched YouTube (60%) compared to YouTube Kids (36%). 

    “More than half of food brands in these videos came from companies that participate in the Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative, a U.S. food industry self-regulatory program,” says Jennifer Harris, Ph.D., Senior Research Advisor at the Rudd Center. “Despite these companies’ pledges to only advertise healthier choices to children, child-influencers frequently promoted their brands, including candy, sugary drinks and sweet and salty snacks.” 

    Children viewed food brand promotions while watching YouTube videos during video previews (i.e., thumbnails), accounting for 23% of brand appearances, and ads, accounting for 17%. However, more than 60% of food brand appearances were embedded within the video content. Lifestyle videos, primarily influencer videos, contributed 77% of these appearances and most (71%) showed the influencer or another character consuming or preparing to consume the product.

    The FTC has called on companies and social media influencers to discontinue these common stealth marketing practices that blur the line between entertainment and advertising, especially when aimed at young children. 

    “Very young children are being bombarded with unhealthy product promotion on YouTube and YouTube Kids, frequently embedded in their favorite videos as props or part of the storyline, which disguises persuasive intent,” says Frances Fleming-Milici, Ph.D., the study’s lead author and Director of Marketing Initiatives at the Rudd Center. “As children as young as age 3 spend more and more time on these platforms, policies must be enacted to protect them from this stealth marketing of products that harm their health.”  

    Currently, Google, YouTube’s parent company, bans food and beverage advertising on YouTube Kids and during “made-for-kids” videos (a subset of videos designated for children under age 13). However, over one-third of 3- to 8-year-olds who watched YouTube Kids, a channel specifically created for children, viewed food brand appearances embedded in videos and thumbnail images. Moreover, brand appearances in “made-for-kids” videos on the main YouTube platform contributed most of 3- to- 5-year-olds’ total branded food exposures. Therefore, watching YouTube Kids or “made-for-kids” videos does not protect children from exposure to stealth marketing promoting unhealthy food brands.

    In addition, not one video embedded with a food or beverage brand disclosed food company-sponsored content, as required by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.

    To stay connected with the UConn Rudd Center’s work, you can follow them on social media and subscribe to their mailing list. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Building local value through skills development at the Learning and Knowledge Development Facility (LKDF) Forum 2025


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    The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), through its Learning and Knowledge Development Facility (LKDF) and with the support of the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), convened the LKDF Forum 2025 under the theme “Skills Development and Local Value Addition: Ensuring Sustainable Growth in Global Supply Chains.” The Forum took place both online and in-person at the World of Volvo in Gothenburg, Sweden. 

    Achieving sustainable, ethical supply chains requires transforming industrial processes, business relations, and workforce skills, with local value addition key to reducing dependency on external inputs and boosting resilience. For emerging markets, building local capabilities diversifies economies and creates jobs; for multinationals, localizing supply chains offers market growth, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance. UNIDO’s Director General Gerd Müller opened the event by calling for greater investment in skills for responsible, future-oriented supply chains, declaring “To build competitive and resilient supply chains with more local value addition, more high value manufacturing and services, more market access, [and] more prosperity, skills development is absolutely key.” 

    Maria Tegborg, Acting Head of the Global Department of Sida, echoed this message, underscoring the role of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in bridging skills gaps and improving economic outcomes, stating “we must continue to invest in skills development to ensure that supply chains operate responsibly.”

    The Forum highlighted how localizing skills and competencies across value chains—particularly in manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and industrial processing—is key to enabling multinational corporations and developing countries to thrive.   

    UNIDO’s Virpi Stucki stressed the need for systemic approaches to workforce development, explaining that strong policy frameworks and transparent supply chains must support sustainable value addition. “When combined with strong policy direction and stakeholder engagement along the way, developing the labour force can be a continuing input into national benefit,” she noted.    

    Anchoring programs in local priorities and ambitions was also a recurring theme. Enabel’s Charlotte Vanstallen stressed, “It all starts, I think, with the local objective and the local focus and the [local] ambition… it cannot be mentioned enough.” Participants agreed that without a strong local perspective, initiatives risk being ineffective or unsustainable. Early engagement of local stakeholders and tailoring programs to community needs make efforts more demand-driven, effective, scalable, and foster stronger ownership and lasting impact. 

    The discussion recognized  the importance of soft skills, sustainability literacy, ESG compliance, and attention to the informal economy, which still represents the majority of employment in many parts of the world. In this context, Caterina Occhio, Economic Inclusion and ESG Advisor at UNIDO, emphasized the power of social procurement models to professionalize informal labour, raise compliance standards, and promote living wages—contributing to what she described as a “culture shift” for sustainable sourcing. 

    The Forum underscored the need for strong cross-sectoral partnerships to close the skills gap across supply chains. UNIDO’s Public-Private Development Partnerships (PPDP) were highlighted as an effective model for aligning vocational training and education with industry demands. By leveraging the strengths of both sectors, these partnerships foster targeted training programs that integrate technical skills with sustainability practices.   

    The Forum welcomed 37 in-person participants and 231 online attendees,  from public and private sectors, civil society, academia, and international organizations. Among the distinguished participants were representatives from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), the European Commission, the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD, the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Volvo Group, Siemens Healthineers, Enabel, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Festo Didactic, and numerous Swedish and international companies representing a wide range of global value chains.   

    The first day of LKDF Forum 2025 concluded with a strong call to action: align national industrial policies with education and training reforms, strengthen cooperation at regional and global levels, and place local communities at the centre of development strategies. Participants were united in the view that sustainable industrialization will depend on holistic, inclusive, and partnership-based approaches to skills development and value addition.   

    The second day of the LKDF Forum 2025 featured a co-creation workshop facilitated by UNIDO’s LKDF team in partnership with the Volvo Group. Participants from public, private, and development sectors engaged in strategic discussions aimed at fostering actionable, cross-sector collaboration to strengthen skills ecosystems. This interactive session enabled meaningful exchanges and connections among attendees, laying the groundwork for future partnerships across industries and generating thirteen new PPDP project ideas. The day continued with a guided visit to the Volvo Trucks Experience Facility, where participants learned about Volvo’s history, explored the latest innovations in truck manufacturing, and even had the opportunity to test drive several vehicles. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 2 July 2025 Accelerating cervical cancer elimination through HPV Vaccination in Nepal

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Nepal, with an estimated 4 women dying each day. Yet, these deaths are preventable. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is a proven, safe and effective intervention to protect women and girls.

    To advance this life-saving effort, on World Cancer Day, 4 February 2025, Nepal took a monumental step toward cervical cancer elimination by launching a nationwide HPV vaccination campaign. This initiative aligns with Nepal’s commitment to the Global Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer, which aims to vaccinate 90% of girls by age 15.

    Nepal’s journey began nearly a decade ago with an HPV demonstration project in Chitwan and Kaski districts. The experience provided valuable insights into effectively delivering vaccines to adolescent girls.

    Girls showing their vaccination cards after receiving the HPV vaccine during a campaign in the Himalayan district of Mustang. Photo credit: ©WHO Nepal

    Accelerating change using the Delivery for Impact (DFI) approach

    In 2023, the WHO country office in Nepal became one of the early adopters of WHO’s Delivery for Impact approach, aimed at driving progress on priority health outcomes, including mobilizing action towards eliminating cervical cancer. The country team embarked on a Delivery Sprint, a time-bound, cohort-based initiative designed to accelerate measurable impact in health priority areas. Over 100 days, a multidisciplinary team within WHO Nepal, including experts in vaccination, noncommunicable diseases, health systems strengthening and planning – used the DFI approach to identify bottlenecks, set measurable targets and coordinate action. The impact cycle (Fig. 1) provided a clear framework to advance implementation.

    Figure 1: Impact cycle; Source: Implementation playbook, deliverying impact for health (adapted from the ‘Evidence Ecosystem for Impact Framework’ in Evidence, policy, impact: WHO guide for evidence-informed decision-making (2021).

    A comprehensive situational analysis and stakeholder engagement process led to the development of a robust Theory of Change, defining short- medium-, and long-term outcomes via identified solutions and WHO’s actions.

    Dr Binod Prasad Gupta, the focal point for the delivery sprint, explained how the Theory of Change served as the foundation to translate ambition into action.

    “The Theory of Change served as our strategic compass. It helped to bring national stakeholders together around a common goal and map the steps needed, from addressing vaccine hesitancy and ensuring supply chain readiness, from community trust-building to last-mile delivery – we turned a national plan into life-saving vaccinations for 1.4 million girls. By identifying key challenges and bottlenecks, it turned big ideas into real, coordinated action. That’s how the Delivery for Impact made a difference on the ground.”

    Dr Binod Prasad Gupta, WCO Nepal Focal Point, Delivery for Impact, 100 days of the Delivery Sprint

    GOAL: Cervical Cancer Eliminated in Nepal
    • Human resources (staff, resource persons/experts, trainers)
    • Funds (capacity development activities, guidelines/SOPs/strategies development, workshops)
    • Technical support (National, Regional and Global)
    • Advocacy, policy dialogue, resource mobilization
    • Strong organizations norms, collaboration & commitments
    • HPV vaccine introduction in the National Immunization program of Nepal
    • Development of proposals, policies and guidelines
    • Conduct capacity building training and orientation to health workers
    • Enhance R&D to document impact of HPV vaccine effectiveness in the country
    • Advocacy and mobilization of champions to raise awareness
    • Collaboration and partnership among stakeholders at all levels of resource mobilization, service execution and monitoring
    • HPV vaccine introduced in the EPI program of Nepal
    • National & sub-national guidelines/SOPs/standard/plans/mechanisms developed and implemented
    • Champions mobilized for raising awareness
    • Short-term outcome: 90% of the girls by aged 10–14 years vaccinated with HPV vaccine within 2 years of its introduction
    • Long-term outcome: Decreased morbidity and mortality attributed to cervical cancer

    In the process, the team committed to vaccinating 90% of the target group within two years, aiming to reduce cervical cancer-related morbidity and mortality over time.

    Achieving Remarkable Results

    From 4 to 18 February 2025, the HPV vaccination campaign targeted 1.56 million schoolgirls from grades 6 to 10, and out-of-school girls aged 10 to 14 years. Within two weeks, more than 1.46 million girls were vaccinated, covering an impressive 94% of the target group, surpassing the initial two-year target of 90%. WHO continues to work with the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) to reach the remaining 6%.

    “Vaccinating 1.4 million girls in just two weeks is a powerful testament to the Ministry of Health and Population’s leadership and commitment. This milestone reflects how the delivery action plan drives results through strong coordination and political will,”said Dr Balwinder Singh, Team Lead, Immunization Preventable Diseases (IPD) programme at WHO Nepal.

    This achievement builds on years of collaboration between WHO, the MoHP and development partners. Since the 2016/2017 HPV demonstration programme, WHO has been a dependable partner – supporting advocacy, planning, implementation, monitoring, and partner coordination, including applying for Gavi funding to ensure the successful national rollout of HPV vaccines.

    “WHO commends the Government of Nepal for this landmark achievement and remains committed to supporting sustained efforts in vaccination, screening, and treatment to eliminate cervical cancer.”

    Dr Rajesh Sambhajirao Pandav, WHO Representative to Nepal.

    Sustaining change

    WHO will continue working with the Government of Nepal to foster a culture of impact by regularly monitoring progress, documenting lessons and making timely adjustments. These efforts aim to sustain momentum and achieve the long-term goal of eliminating cervical cancer in Nepal.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Former SWAT Leader and National Educator Joins WrapTactics™ to Launch Digital Pre-Escalation Training

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wrap Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: WRAP) (“Wrap” or, the “Company”), a global leader in pre-escalation and non-lethal public safety solutions, today announces the appointment of Todd Larson, EdD., MSL, FABC, as Strategic Advisor of the Company. Dr. Larson will guide the development of WrapTactics™, Wrap’s advanced learning management system focused on elevating police training through integrated mindset conditioning, emotional regulation and tactical problem-solving.

    Dr. Larson brings over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, public safety innovation and education. His decorated 22-year tenure with the Scottsdale Police Department included leadership roles in Special Investigations, Violent Crimes, and more than a decade with the SWAT team as operator, sniper and team leader. Complementing his field experience, Dr. Larson has taught at the University of Phoenix, Northern Arizona University, and delivered leadership, ethics and emotional intelligence training nationwide to thousands of officers.

    “Dr. Larson’s commitment to innovation, leadership and his extensive law enforcement experience makes him an invaluable addition to our core advisory team,” said Scot Cohen, Chief Executive Officer of Wrap. “His expertise is expected to ensure our learning system is grounded in reality, guided by science and focused on safer outcomes for all.”

    As Wrap builds a scalable and practical training platform in public safety, Dr. Larson will lead efforts to embed scenario-based modules rooted in real-world encounters, emphasizing three critical components of effective policing:

    • Mindset framing to foster clarity under pressure within the pre-escalation period;
    • Emotion regulation to de-escalate before force becomes necessary; and
    • Tactical precision to resolve situations safely and effectively.

    “I am honored to support Wrap’s mission to improve officer readiness through innovation,” said Dr. Larson. “WrapTactics™ isn’t just about tools—it’s about transforming the way officers think, respond and lead in every interaction.”

    Larson holds a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and a master’s degree in leadership with an emphasis in Crisis Management and Disaster Preparedness from Grand Canyon University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in education from Northern Arizona University. He also works as a consultant with a large Arizona based healthcare system focused on Innovation and Network Operations, is a published author and a nationally known speaker.

    To learn more about WrapTactics™ and Dr. Larson’s role in redefining modern police training, visit [www.wrap.com].

    About Wrap Technologies, Inc.

    Wrap Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WRAP) a global leader in innovative public safety technologies and non-lethal tools, delivering cutting-edge technology with exceptional people to address the complex, modern day challenges facing public safety organizations.

    Wrap’s BolaWrap® 150 solution leads the world in pre-escalation and beyond, providing law enforcement with a safer choice for nearly every phase of a critical incident.

    This innovative, patented device deploys a multi-sensory, cognitive disruption that leverages sight, sound and sensation to expand the pre-escalation period and give officers the advantage and critical time to manage non-compliant subjects before resorting to higher-force options. The BolaWrap® 150 is a not pain-based- compliance. It does not shoot, strike, shock, or incapacitate—instead, it helps officers strategically operate pre-escalation on the force continuum, reducing the risk of injury to both officers and subjects. Used by over 1,000 agencies across the U.S. and in 60 countries, BolaWrap® is backed by training certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), reinforcing Wrap’s commitment to public safety through cutting-edge technology and expert training.

    Wrap Reality® VR is a fully immersive training simulator to enhance decision-making under pressure.

    As a comprehensive public safety training platform, it provides first responders with realistic, interactive scenarios that reflect the evolving challenges of modern law enforcement. By offering a growing library of real-world situations, Wrap Reality® equips officers with the skills and confidence to navigate high stakes encounters effectively, leading to safer outcomes for both responders and the communities they serve.

    WrapVision is an all-new body-worn camera and evidence management system built for efficiency.

    Designed for efficiency, security, and transparency to meet the rigorous demands of modern law enforcement, WrapVision captures, stores and helps manage digital evidence, with operational security, regulatory compliance and superior video picture quality and field of view.

    The WrapVision camera, powered by IONODES boasts cloud integration and adheres to Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliance requirements and GSA schedule contracts requirements. Crucially, unlike many competitor devices manufactured overseas in foreign, non-compliant, and possibly hostile regions, WrapVision is built in North America, promoting unparalleled data integrity and reducing critical concerns over unauthorized access or foreign surveillance risks.

    Trademark Information

    Trademark Information Wrap, the Wrap logo, BolaWrap®, Wrap Reality® and Wrap Training Academy are trademarks of Wrap Technologies, Inc., some of which are registered in the U.S. and abroad. All other trade names used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective holders.

    Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements – Safe Harbor Statement

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should”, “believe”, “target”, “project”, “goals”, “estimate”, “potential”, “predict”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Moreover, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: the Company’s expectations related to the appointment of the new Chief Financial Officer, the expected benefits of the acquisition of W1 Global, LLC, the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s listing standards; the Company’s ability to successfully implement training programs for the use of its products; the Company’s ability to manufacture and produce products for its customers; the Company’s ability to develop sales for its products; the market acceptance of existing and future products; the availability of funding to continue to finance operations; the complexity, expense and time associated with sales to law enforcement and government entities; the lengthy evaluation and sales cycle for the Company’s product solutions; product defects; litigation risks from alleged product-related injuries; risks of government regulations; the business impact of health crises or outbreaks of disease, such as epidemics or pandemics; the impact resulting from geopolitical conflicts and any resulting sanctions; the ability to obtain export licenses for counties outside of the United States; the ability to obtain patents and defend intellectual property against competitors; the impact of competitive products and solutions; and the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand, as well as other risk factors mentioned in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and were based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    (800) 583-2652
    ir@wrap.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6444767d-f765-42a5-873b-4d2990983561

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM District 160 Washington State Multicare Healthcare Professionals Begin Five-Day Strike for Safe Staffing, Fairness

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Healthcare workers at Multicare Emergency – Parkland in Tacoma, Washington began a five day strike at midnight on June 30. The workers on shift at that hour proudly walked out of the facility as other workers and IAM representatives cheered outside the gates of the facility.

    Staff at Multicare Parkland emergency clinic go on strike over stalled contract negotiations King 5 News

    The strike is over repeated illegal actions, including bad faith bargaining and retaliation against unionized employees, which has resulted in 14 National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) charges of unfair labor practices at the facility, Good Samaritan Hospital of Washington state. The facility is an Off-Campus Emergency Department (OCED) operated by Emerus, a Dallas-based equity firm.

    “MultiCare has intentionally made negotiations difficult from day one. The first ULP was filed immediately after certification because we were and continue to be denied basic access to our membership at the facility,” said IAM Western Territory International Representative Brandon Hemming, the group’s lead negotiator. “I’ve negotiated for over a decade, and I’ve never sat across the table from someone with such blatant disregard and a real aversion for reaching a fair agreement.”

    Workers at the Parkland facility—known widely as the busiest OCED location within MultiCare—face unique challenges, handling significant trauma patient volumes without direct hospital support.

    Healthcare workers start strike in Parkland, WA Q15 News

    “Safe staffing is crucial to proper patient care, and that is a major concern for us,” said Michelle Zaun, an Emergency Service Technician at Parkland Multicare. “The company’s actions have contributed to significant staff attrition, dropping from 120 employees at certification to around 75 today, because people just can’t take it anymore.  And [the company] openly told us they are spending $300,000 on replacement employees for this week alone.”

    IAM Western Territory General Vice President, Robert “Bobby” Martinez said, “We are witnessing the solidarity that it takes to make meaningful change. These members have endured enough disrespect by the company and it is time for it to end. We stand strong with our brothers, sisters, and siblings to back them as they fight for what is right in this first contract”.

    Workers will man picket lines in front of the facility in two shifts for the rest of this week.  They intend to return to work on the coming holiday weekend, knowing that critical emergency health incidents normally rise during that period. 

    Image Gallery

    The post IAM District 160 Washington State Multicare Healthcare Professionals Begin Five-Day Strike for Safe Staffing, Fairness appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Summer Heat Safety Advice From Your Union

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Extreme temperatures put workers in danger. IAM Union wants to remind all workers that employers have an obligation to protect workers against illness and injury from high temperatures in the workplace, whether inside or outdoors.

    Employers must protect workers by reducing and eliminating hazards that expose workers to heat illness or injury.

    Know Your Rights!

    Under federal law, you are entitled to a safe workplace. In regard to extreme heat at work, you have the right to:

    • Speak up about hazards without fear of retaliation. For information about whistleblower protections, visit www.whistleblowers.gov.
    • Request an OSHA inspection and speak to OSHA inspectors.
    • Report an injury or illness, and review and get copies of your medical records from your employer.

    Tips for preventing heat illness

    Heat-related illnesses can be prevented.

    • Hydrate before, during and after work. Drink 1 cup of cool water every 20 minutes even if you aren’t thirsty. For longer jobs, drinks with electrolytes are best. Avoid energy drinks and alcohol.
    • Find shade or a cool area for rest breaks that allow your body to recover.
    • Dress for the heat. A hat and light-colored, loose-fitting (where allowed), breathable clothing are ideal.
    • If wearing a face covering, change it if it becomes wet or soiled. Check on others verbally often.
    • Not everyone tolerates heat the same way. Understand personal risk factors.
    • Understanding engineering controls, work practices, and PPE.

    For information on heat illness prevention, please go to OSHA’s website.

    IAM Director of Safety and Health Michael Oathout wants workers to know that they have protections and should report violations of their health and safety rights to OSHA.

    “Employers are obligated to provide safe work environments,” said Oathout. “We want to remind workers, especially those in high-risk industries, that working in extremely high temperatures can be deadly. We don’t want workers to be scared of taking care of themselves and protecting themselves.”

    Please stay safe and protect yourself if you are at risk from heat at work.

    The post Summer Heat Safety Advice From Your Union appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: International Rescue Committee (IRC) Chad prepares for cholera outbreak as World Health Organisation (WHO) warns of regional spread


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    Alain Rusuku, Country Director, IRC Chad, said:

    “Following concerns expressed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) about the spread of the unprecedented Cholera epidemic in Sudan to neighbouring countries, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is launching prevention efforts, including raising awareness amongst vulnerable communities of how to prevent the spread of disease, to prepare for a possible cholera outbreak. With the rainy season approaching in Chad, health teams warn that the risk of an epidemic is increasing. We know how quickly flooding can overwhelm sanitation systems and create ideal conditions for the rapid spread of cholera. We’re working closely with communities to raise awareness and reduce risks before the disease reaches eastern Chad. This includes surveillance at the borders and awareness-raising in the camps, where the IRC is actively involved, alongside coordination with the Ministry of Health, local authorities, and partners to strengthen overall response preparedness.”

    In Sudan, which is now the largest displacement crisis in the world, the epidemic saw a dramatic resurgence at the end of May, with more than 82,000 cases and over 2,100 deaths reported across the country, with Khartoum, South Darfur and East Darfur showing increasing trends. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Rescue Committee (IRC) .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Graves of four soldiers killed in 1940 identified in France

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Graves of four soldiers killed in 1940 identified in France

    Four British servicemen who died during World War Two in France have been rededicated, bringing closure to families after more than 85 years.

    The rededication service for Gunner Humphries attended by his great nephews. MOD Crown Copyright.

    Last week’s rededication services for Private (Pte) William Falconer, Gunner (Gnr) Joseph Humphries, Signalman (Sig) Edmund Roberts and Major (Maj) Richard White-Cooper were all held at Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) Le Grand-Lucé War Cemetery near Le Mans, France, on 24 June.

    The families of Gnr Humphries, Sig Roberts and Maj White-Cooper attended the rededication service, as well as serving soldiers of The Royal Corps of Signals, The Royal Regiment of Artillery and The Royal Welsh.

    They were some of many British servicemen remaining in France after Operation Dynamo, which saw the mass evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) through Dunkirk. As the Germans advanced across France, fighting continued and further evacuations were made from ports along the northern and western French coasts.  

    Maj Richard White-Cooper (courtesy of the White-Cooper family).

    All 4 men had been brought to 9th General Hospital located in the Chateau at Le Grand-Lucé either for treatment or burial. Casualties that died while in the hospital’s care were being buried at the site of Le Grand-Lucé War Cemetery close by. As they were missing, all 4 men had previously been commemorated on the Dunkirk Memorial. 

    The graves were recently identified after John Hawthorn, the husband of Sig Roberts’ granddaughter, submitted a case to CWGC hoping to have Sig Roberts’ final resting place confirmed. After extensive research by CWGC, the National Army Museum and JCCC, the graves of all 4 men were identified. This means that all casualties buried in Le Grand-Lucé War Cemetery have now been identified. 

    John Hawthorn said:

    Words are not adequate to express the emotions I had when I got the email from Rosie Barron telling me that the JCCC were happy to confirm they recognise that Sig Edmund Roberts is buried in the CWGC cemetery at Le Grand Luce, France. Brian, his son and my father-in-law, was only 3 years old when Eddie died on 13 June 1940. He never knew where or how his father died, nor where his body rested. 

    The only commemoration was a name on the Dunkirk Memorial. Having a headstone to mark Eddie’s grave provides the family with closure, comfort, and the opportunity to visit a specific place to pay our respects. We are eternally grateful to the tireless work of CWGC and the JCCC, and especially Rosie for all she has done.

    Headshot of Sig Edmund Roberts (courtesy of the Roberts family).

    The services were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’.  

    JCCC Caseworker, Rosie Barron, said:

    The story of what happened to those members of the BEF still left in France following the Dunkirk evacuations is rarely told. These services highlight the dangers experienced by these men in the struggle to hold the German Army back, and to evacuate from ports further west. Regrettably these men all lost their lives in the confusion of this period. It is a privilege to have met their families and to know that their stories have been concluded.

    CWGC has replaced the headstones over the graves and will care for them in perpetuity, ensuring these brave servicemen are remembered with honour.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Sensex, Nifty end lower as investors turn cautious over Trump’s tariff deadline

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The stock markets ended lower on Wednesday, as investor sentiment remained cautious due to US President Donald Trump’s firm stand on the upcoming tariff deadline.

    The nervousness led to a risk-off mood among investors, pulling the benchmark indices lower.

    After rising to an intra-day high of 83,935.29, the Sensex lost momentum and closed at 83,409.69, down 287.6 points or 0.34 per cent.

    The Nifty also declined by 88.45 points or 0.35 per cent to end the day at 25,453.4.

    “Mixed global cues, particularly ahead of the impending tariff deadline, are driving investor caution,” Vinod Nair of Geojit Investments Limited said.

    “Market attention is gradually shifting to crucial Q1 earnings, which have high expectations,” he added.

    Nair added that the underlying trends such as robust macroeconomic fundamentals and increased government expenditure continue to support market resilience.

    Among the Sensex stocks, the biggest losers were Bajaj Finserv, L&T, Bajaj Finance, HDFC Bank, and Bharat Electronics.

    On the other hand, Tata Steel, Asian Paints, Ultratech Cement, Trent, Maruti, and Sun Pharma were among the top gainers.

    Broader markets followed a similar trend. The Nifty Midcap100 index ended down by 0.14 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap100 index slipped 0.41 per cent.

    Sector-wise, Nifty Metal, Consumer Durables, Auto, IT, Pharma, and Healthcare managed to close in the green.

    However, Nifty Realty, Financial Services, Bank, Oil & Gas, and Media dragged the overall sentiment with losses.

    The total market capitalisation of all listed companies on the NSE stood at Rs 5.35 trillion.

    Meanwhile, the India VIX, which measures market volatility, eased slightly by 0.66 per cent to settle at 12.44 points — suggesting some cooling off in investor nervousness despite the day’s losses.

    Gold traded in a narrow range as market awaits key US data releases. Comex Gold moved between $3327 – $3340, while MCX Gold traded between Rs 97,000 – Rs 97,400.

    “The prices expected to remain in the broader range of Rs 96,500 – Rs 97,850 as participants price in potential dollar weakness and upcoming US data, including Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP), ADP non-farm employment, and unemployment figures,” Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities stated.

    (IANS)

  • Sensex, Nifty end lower as investors turn cautious over Trump’s tariff deadline

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The stock markets ended lower on Wednesday, as investor sentiment remained cautious due to US President Donald Trump’s firm stand on the upcoming tariff deadline.

    The nervousness led to a risk-off mood among investors, pulling the benchmark indices lower.

    After rising to an intra-day high of 83,935.29, the Sensex lost momentum and closed at 83,409.69, down 287.6 points or 0.34 per cent.

    The Nifty also declined by 88.45 points or 0.35 per cent to end the day at 25,453.4.

    “Mixed global cues, particularly ahead of the impending tariff deadline, are driving investor caution,” Vinod Nair of Geojit Investments Limited said.

    “Market attention is gradually shifting to crucial Q1 earnings, which have high expectations,” he added.

    Nair added that the underlying trends such as robust macroeconomic fundamentals and increased government expenditure continue to support market resilience.

    Among the Sensex stocks, the biggest losers were Bajaj Finserv, L&T, Bajaj Finance, HDFC Bank, and Bharat Electronics.

    On the other hand, Tata Steel, Asian Paints, Ultratech Cement, Trent, Maruti, and Sun Pharma were among the top gainers.

    Broader markets followed a similar trend. The Nifty Midcap100 index ended down by 0.14 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap100 index slipped 0.41 per cent.

    Sector-wise, Nifty Metal, Consumer Durables, Auto, IT, Pharma, and Healthcare managed to close in the green.

    However, Nifty Realty, Financial Services, Bank, Oil & Gas, and Media dragged the overall sentiment with losses.

    The total market capitalisation of all listed companies on the NSE stood at Rs 5.35 trillion.

    Meanwhile, the India VIX, which measures market volatility, eased slightly by 0.66 per cent to settle at 12.44 points — suggesting some cooling off in investor nervousness despite the day’s losses.

    Gold traded in a narrow range as market awaits key US data releases. Comex Gold moved between $3327 – $3340, while MCX Gold traded between Rs 97,000 – Rs 97,400.

    “The prices expected to remain in the broader range of Rs 96,500 – Rs 97,850 as participants price in potential dollar weakness and upcoming US data, including Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP), ADP non-farm employment, and unemployment figures,” Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities stated.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Join dozens of others and Swap to Stop smoking

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Launched by the City of Wolverhampton Council last year, Swap to Stop provides free vaping kits and behavioural support to help people stop smoking.

    The service is delivered over a period of 12 weeks by trained members of staff who offer free vape starter kits alongside support and weekly ‘check-in’ sessions at community venues to help people on their quitting journey.

    Scores of people have already come forward to get help – with over 135 quitting as a result. Others are invited to sign up for free at Swap to Stop. http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/health-and-wellbeing/swap-to-stop  
    www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/health-and-wellbeing/swap-to-stop.

    The Government is offering a million free ‘Swap to Stop’ vaping kits as part of its aims for the country to become ‘smokefree’ by 2030. The council has made these available at a range of community venues, including the city’s eight Family Hubs and Central and Warstones libraries.

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for your health and the health of those around you.

    “It is still the single largest preventable cause of death in England, accounting for around for 64,000 deaths annually. Almost every minute of every day someone is admitted to hospital with a smoking-related disease – but, when you stop smoking, there are almost immediate improvements to your health.

    “And it’s not just your body which will benefit, your purse or wallet will too. On average smokers spend around £40 per week on tobacco – and that means you could have around £2,000 extra to spend a year by quitting, or even more if you are a really heavy smoker.

    “Nicotine vaping is substantially less harmful than smoking and is also one of the most effective tools for quitting, and it’s fantastic that over 135 residents have already been able to quit using the support available through Swap to Stop.

    “We are delighted to be extending the programme for another 12 months so, if you want to quit smoking, please sign up today.”

    For more help and support to stop smoking, please visit Quit Smoking. https://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/health-and-wellbeing/quit-smoking. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 2 July 2025 Departmental update WHO-backed integrated testing model strengthens response to mpox, HIV, and syphilis

    Source: World Health Organisation

    As mpox cases rise again in parts of Central Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is pioneering an integrated public health response for HIV and syphilis testing within national mpox management.

    This integrated approach, led by the Ministry of Health with technical support from WHO, aims to provide comprehensive care, reduce missed opportunities for diagnosis and treatment and support community protection. Clinicians working at mpox testing sites have welcomed the initiative.

    Growing evidence shows people with undiagnosed HIV and those living with HIV who are not virally suppressed are at increased risk of severe mpox illness and death. Co-infection with syphilis has also been documented among individuals affected by mpox, especially among key populations. Despite the availability of affordable and effective treatment, syphilis continues to be widely underdiagnosed and untreated, particularly in low-resource settings. It is now the second leading cause of stillbirth globally. Integrating syphilis screening into the mpox response not only addresses a major gap in maternal and newborn health but also reinforces broader efforts in surveillance, diagnosis and care of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

    “We now know people with HIV, particularly those with a CD4 count under 200 cells/mm³, are at risk for severe disease and death from mpox,” said Dr Meg Doherty, Director of WHO’s Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes. “Ensuring early access to HIV and syphilis testing and treatment to all people with confirmed or suspected mpox, as well as timely access to mpox vaccines and antivirals, will save lives”.

    Implementation in Kinshasa

    In April 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo became the first country to implement WHO’s Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for integrating HIV and syphilis testing services as part of the mpox response. With support from WHO, health workers were trained and began rolling out dual HIV/syphilis rapid diagnostic tests to improve detection among those with suspected mpox at designated treatment centres. 

    The approach was first launched in 5 mpox treatment centres and now covers 11 health zones. Between April 2025 and 7 June 2025:

    • 697 individuals with suspected mpox were tested for HIV and syphilis;
    • 36 (5%) tested positive for HIV, including 27 confirmed mpox co-infections;
    • 6 individuals (1%) tested positive for syphilis and were treated on-site; and
    • weekly testing volumes increased steadily, reaching over 120 tests per week.

    National coordination and scale-up

    This approach is now going national. On 3 June 2025, the National HIV/AIDS Control Programme, together with WHO, the Ministry of Health, the Centre d’opérations d’urgence de santé publique (COUSP), and the Divisions provinciales de la santé (DPS) reviewed progress and set priorities for expanding this integrated approach. Together, they have also: 

    • drafted a therapeutic protocol for managing HIV/mpox co-infection;
    • strengthened capacity at the Kinoise Mpox Treatment Centre;
    • integrated mpox services into 6 HIV care and treatment centres;
    • strengthened inter-programme coordination to address delays and optimize limited resources; and
    • prepared for geographic expansion to provinces with high mpox transmission and/or high HIV prevalence.

    Addressing real world challenges 

    Despite strong progress, the rollout has faced logistical and operational challenges, including stock-outs, expiration of HIV test kits and delays in mpox PCR test results, which affect timely treatment. There has also been limited capacity to manage severe mpox/HIV co-infection, with only one advanced care site (MSF Kabinda in Kinshasa) in operation.

    Looking ahead

    As the country continues to confront multiple health threats, including mpox, HIV, and syphilis, its integrated testing model offers a blueprint for action in resource-limited settings. Lessons learned can be applied in other neighbouring countries as part of emergency and outbreak response, as well as for future preparedness and planning. 

    WHO and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are now planning to continue to provide joint supervision and mentoring visits, in order to strengthen data reporting and monitoring and improving stock management so as to avoid future commodity shortages. Both remain committed to protecting and saving lives by linking outbreak response with essential HIV and STI services, ensuring that no one is left behind.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Sudan: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) calls for urgent scale up in water and sanitation programs amidst rising cholera cases in Abyei


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    A cholera outbreak in Abyei Special Administrative Area risks spreading further if water and sanitation (WASH) conditions are not urgently improved, warns Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Health authorities in Abyei officially declared a cholera outbreak on 11 June 2025, following a continued rise in reported cases.

    South Sudan has been grappling with a widespread cholera outbreak since September 2024, with cases reported across multiple states, including Unity, Jonglei, Upper Nile, and Central Equatoria, which hosts the capital, Juba. Abyei Special Administrative Area in the north western part of South Sudan is one of the latest areas to be affected. People in Abyei, whether displaced people, or host communities, are living in overcrowded areas with limited access to basic services. The situation is particularly concerning in informal settlements like Amiet market, where over 50,000 people who fled the war in Sudan live with limited access to safe drinking water and sanitation infrastructure such as latrines. Many are forced to defecate in the open due to a lack of latrines, posing further risks of the spread of diseases.

    “The situation in Amiet is critical. The patients admitted with cholera to Ameth Bek Hospital in Abyei Town confirm an active outbreak. The risk of spread to Abyei town is high, especially with the return of the rains, extremely poor hygiene conditions, and the continued increase in the number of people arriving from Sudan coming into an already overcrowded space,” says Stéphanie Dongmo, MSF Project Coordinator in Abyei.

    MSF has been responding to the crisis, treating patients with symptoms consistent with cholera such as acute watery diarrhoea at its 20-bed cholera treatment unit (CTU) set up at Ameth Bek Hospital since 11 April. Between 2 and 28 June, a total of 333 suspected cholera cases were treated at the MSF CTU. The last three weeks have seen a significant surge, with 80 patients received between 9 and 15 June; 77 between 16 and 22 June; and 94 between 23 and 28 June being treated at the MSF CTU in Abyei.

    While there are ongoing medical response efforts, the onset of the rainy season poses an immediate and severe threat. Ensuing floods are likely to cut off access, complicate logistical movements for aid, and accelerate the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera.

    “MSF calls for the urgent rollout of cholera vaccines and vastly improved water, sanitation, and hygiene programs by all relevant actors in affected areas. Immediate and comprehensive actions, including deploying water trucks to provide clean water, soap, constructing more latrines, and improving the drainage systems are critical to mitigate the crisis. These immediate actions are crucial to save lives and prevent further escalation of this critical public health emergency in Abyei,” Stephanie adds.

    Since the start of the outbreak in September 2024, more than 75,000 cases and over 1,300 deaths from cholera had been reported nationwide according to the World Health Organisation by 27 June 2025.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Médecins sans frontières (MSF).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Malawi Secures Gains Against Polio, Strengthens Health Systems for the Future


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    As Malawi celebrates its first anniversary after officially closing its reimported wild poliovirus (WPV1) outbreak, the country is taking strategic steps to sustain hard-won gains and strengthen its broader health system. On 24 April 2025, health leaders, partners, and stakeholders gathered for the National Polio Transition Planning meeting, an important milestone in ensuring that the infrastructure built to eradicate polio continues to serve Malawi’s communities for years to come.

    From Polio Response to Long-Term Resilience

    Polio resources – from trained personnel to disease surveillance systems-have played a key role in emergency health responses across Malawi. The transition planning process aims to protect these assets and ensure their integration into the national health system. In line with the Polio Transition Strategic Framework, Malawi’s plan supports national ownership of essential polio functions, including surveillance, immunization, and outbreak response.

    “Transitioning from GPEI support means we must strengthen our ability to manage core functions nationally. This is vital to keep Malawi polio-free and improve our capacity to detect and respond to other vaccine-preventable diseases,” said Dr. Patrick Wataya Chirwa, Chair of the National Certification Committee.

    In May 2020, Malawi (alongside the rest of the African Region) was certified free of indigenous wild poliovirus. However, the detection of a reimported case from Southern Asia in 2022 served as a powerful reminder that polio remains a global threat. Malawi’s health authorities responded swiftly and decisively, successfully interrupting transmission by May 2024.

    By January 2025, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) had classified the country as low-risk on its global polio watchlist—a testament to Malawi’s strong response and surveillance systems.

    However, maintaining that status means planning for the future. As external polio funding declines, Malawi must close gaps in workforce and financing. The Polio Transition Plan will help secure critical capacities and align them with the Ministry of Health-led Immunization Programme, reinforcing the country’s ability to prevent and respond to outbreaks.

    Sarah Wanyoike, from WHO AFRO’s Eastern and Southern Africa inter-country support team, highlighted how lessons from Malawi’s recent outbreak response can shape a stronger, more resilient health system. “We must integrate service delivery and strengthen surveillance across the board—not just for polio, but for all vaccine-preventable diseases,” she said.

    The plan focuses on optimizing existing systems, integrating surveillance efforts, and building multisectoral collaboration, linking immunization, emergency preparedness, One Health approaches, and community engagement.

    At the meeting, Dr. Neema Kimambo, WHO Representative to Malawi, emphasized that the transition is not just a health sector responsibility. It requires cross-cutting collaboration among government agencies, local health authorities, partners, and civil society.

    “Malawi’s success will depend on strong coordination between the Ministry of Health, EPI, the Public Health Institute of Malawi, district councils, health partners, NGOs, and communities themselves,” Dr. Kimambo noted.

    These efforts aim to ensure that the systems and knowledge built through the polio programme continue to benefit Malawians, supporting everything from emergency response to routine immunization and disease surveillance.

    Malawi’s National Polio Transition Plan is a blueprint not only for sustaining polio eradication efforts but also for advancing universal health coverage and equity. As the country moves from emergency response to long-term resilience, WHO and partners remain committed to supporting a smooth and sustainable transition—helping Malawi stay polio-free and healthier for generations to come.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Malawi.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Health Organization (WHO) supports Mauritius in developing a national medicine policy to ensure access to safe and quality medicines


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    From a mother seeking antibiotics for her child at a clinic, to a cancer patient in need of lifesaving therapy, medicines are no ordinary commodities. They are lifelines. They manage pain, control chronic illness, treat infections, and save lives.

    Mauritius is embarking in the development of a national medicine policy with the support of WHO: 

    “The national medicine policy will ensure the population of Mauritius has access to good quality medicines,” said the Senior Chief Executive of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Mr Sarwansingh Purmessur at the opening of the workshop. It shows the commitment of the country in achieving Universal Health Coverage, added Mr S. Purmessur.

    “Mauritius relies heavily on imported medicines; A strong National Medicine Policy is the backbone of a well-functioning pharmaceutical system. It will bring transparency, accountability, and resilience in a world of increasing health threats and economic volatility. said the WHO Representative, Dr Anne Ancia. “Today’s landmark workshop marks the commitment of Mauritius in ensuring safe, effective, quality and affordable medicines for all citizens”

    This initiative unites various health professionals including clinicians, pharmacists, regulators, academics, wholesalers, member of pharmacy council and other health professionals to contribute to the development of a policy that will meet the specificities of the country and the local context.  

    WHO has mobilized two internationally renowned experts—Professor Fatima Suleman and Dr Andy Gray, leading the WHO Collaborating Centre for Pharmaceutical Policy and Evidence-Based Practice at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa—to provide the greatest technical input and guidance throughout the process.

    This participatory and inclusive approach underscores the Ministry of Health and Wellness’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, laying the foundation for a policy owned by all and ensuring engagement and accountability for its implementation. 

    WHO is not only here to assist in developing this policy — we want to work with you in ensuring its long-term impact and success; when the right medicine will reach the right person at the right time, every time; when medicines will always do what they are meant to do: heal, protect, and give every Mauritian the chance to live a full, healthy life.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Mauritius.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Championing the role of science

    Source: Scottish Government

    New Chief Scientific Adviser appointed.

    Professor Calum Semple OBE has been appointed the Scottish Government’s next Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA).

    He will take up the position on 5 August 2025 on an initial three-year term.

    Professor Semple is a Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust and became Professor of Outbreak Medicine and Child Health at the University of Liverpool in 2018.

    He has held key advisory roles during public health emergencies, serving as a UK Government adviser during the 2009 Swine Flu pandemic, on the World Health Organisation Scientific Advisory Committee during the Ebola Emergency and as a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies during the Covid pandemic.

    The role of CSA includes:

    • providing Scottish Government Ministers independent scientific advice on issues of strategic importance
    • championing Scotland’s world-leading science and research base and the role of science in the economy and society
    • inspiring the next generation of scientists and encourage diversity in the STEM (science, technology engineering and mathematics) workforce.

    Business Minister Richard Lochhead said:

    “Science is the bedrock of our society and economy and at the heart of government decision making. From health to the economy to the environment and everything in between, it is a fundamental part of our everyday lives.

    “I am delighted to welcome Professor Semple to the role of Chief Scientific Adviser and look forward to his valuable insight and advice as the Scottish Government continues to work with our world leading science sector to highlight Scotland’s strengths as a science nation and ensure it is front and centre of everything we do.”

    Professor Semple said:

    “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to work for the people and government of Scotland, providing evidence and scientific advice to support our policymakers. I particularly look forward to collaborating with Scotland’s vibrant communities of scientists and engineers in our schools, universities and industries, who inspire and drive the innovation essential for future economic growth. I will ensure that science and evidence remain at the heart of how we shape a fairer, greener, and more prosperous Scotland.

    “I would like to thank my wife, friends, and colleagues at the University of Liverpool and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital who support my career and enabled this important appointment. Their encouragement and collaboration have been vital to my journey.”

    Background

    Professor Semple was raised in Glasgow and Edinburgh. He qualified in medicine from the University of Oxford after completing a PhD in Clinical Virology at University College London and a Bachelor’s Tripos in Cell Pathology, Immunology, and Virology at Middlesex Hospital Medical School.

    His clinical academic training in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine began in 2002 when he was awarded a Department of Health National Clinical Scientist Fellowship at the University of Liverpool and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

    He was appointed Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in 2006 and was promoted to Professor of Outbreak Medicine and Child Health at the University of Liverpool in 2018.

    He will retain these positions, albeit with reduced activity, during his appointment to the Scottish Government.

    Professor Semple has been studying severe viral outbreaks since 1989 and co-founded the International Severe Acute Respiratory and Emerging Infection Consortium (ISARIC) in 2012. He has led research on HIV/AIDS, Bronchiolitis, Influenza, Ebola, Mpox, COVID-19, and Hepatitis, with a focus on disease characterisation and clinical countermeasures. His work has been supported by the Wellcome Trust, UK NIHR, and UKRI MRC. For his leadership of medical research activities in Sierra Leone between 2014 and 2016, he and his team were awarded the Queen’s Ebola Medal for Service in West Africa. In 2019, he received a Commonwealth Award for his ongoing work with Ebola Survivors.

    Professor Semple has held key advisory roles during public health emergencies, including serving as a UK Government advisor during the 2009 Swine Flu pandemic, on the WHO Scientific Advisory Committee for the Ebola Emergency – STAC-EE (2014–2017), the New Emerging Respiratory Viral Threats Advisory Group – NERVTAG (2014–2023), and the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies – SAGE for COVID-19 (2020–2022).

    He was appointed OBE in 2020 for his contributions to the COVID-19 response and was elected a Fellow of the Faculty of Public Health by distinction in 2022. His leadership is marked by integrity, collaboration, inclusivity, and clear communication.

    He enjoys spending time with his family, dogs, beekeeping, playing the pipes, and fly fishing.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in South Africa and UK suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (July 2) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Mkhondo Local Municipality in South Africa and Wrexham County of Wales in the United Kingdom (UK), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

    A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong has currently established a protocol with South Africa for the import of poultry meat but not for poultry eggs. According to the Census and Statistics Department, no poultry meat was imported into Hong Kong from South Africa in the first three months of this year. Moreover, Hong Kong imported about 210 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 440 000 poultry eggs from the UK in the first three months of this year.

    “The CFS has contacted the South African and British authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in South Africa and UK suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (July 2) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Mkhondo Local Municipality in South Africa and Wrexham County of Wales in the United Kingdom (UK), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

    A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong has currently established a protocol with South Africa for the import of poultry meat but not for poultry eggs. According to the Census and Statistics Department, no poultry meat was imported into Hong Kong from South Africa in the first three months of this year. Moreover, Hong Kong imported about 210 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 440 000 poultry eggs from the UK in the first three months of this year.

    “The CFS has contacted the South African and British authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: England’s mayors gather to pledge national walking, wheeling and cycling network, backed by government

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    England’s mayors gather to pledge national walking, wheeling and cycling network, backed by government

    National active travel network will provide 3,500 miles of safer routes for better connectivity, targeting areas where health and air quality are poorest.

    • national active travel network to give healthier and greener travel options to millions across the nation
    • pledge to deliver an initial 3,500 miles of safer routes to schools, shops and high streets, workplaces and transport hubs
    • projects will help tackle the country’s inactivity crisis, easing pressure on the NHS and boosting productivity, as part of government’s Plan for Change

    Ministers are backing a coalition of 11 of England’s combined authority mayors, who have signed an ambitious joint statement pledging to create a national active travel network, enabling millions of happier, healthier and greener journeys from Berwick to Bristol.

    West Yorkshire’s Tracy Brabin, South Yorkshire’s Oliver Coppard, York and North Yorkshire’s David Skaith, Hull and East Yorkshire’s Luke Campbell, the North East’s Kim McGuinness, the West of England’s Helen Godwin and the East Midlands’ Claire Ward met with National Active Travel Commissioner, Chris Boardman, and the UK’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, in York yesterday (1 July 2025) to kickstart the plans.

    Greater Manchester’s Mayor Andy Burnham, Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotherham, Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Mayor Paul Bristow have also signed the pledge published today. In addition, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has added his signature in support of the agreement.

    Launching in autumn 2025, the programme will begin with Mayoral combined authorities agreeing an initial network of 3,500 miles of safer routes connecting housing to schools and high streets, targeting areas where health and air quality are poorest, helping to reduce stark health inequalities.

    This will help more of their regions’ 20 million residents meet recommended activity levels, reducing risks of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and depression while supporting the government’s Plan for Change by easing pressure on the NHS and boosting growth. The new routes and projects will focus on prevention rather than cure, by building health and wellbeing into everyday activities.

    The multi-region project will begin work in around 1,000 schools, creating 300 safer routes for people walking, wheeling and cycling.

    National Active Travel Commissioner, Chris Boardman, said:

    Our regional leaders have today marked the start of an exciting chapter by pledging to give people across the country more transport choice.

    We know that more walking, wheeling and cycling will improve our country’s mental and physical health, but it will do much more, it’s the foundation for thriving integrated public transport networks, it increases access to work, boosting local economic growth and it will give millions of children more independence.

    People will only consider travelling actively if it is easy and safe. That’s what the mayors have today pledged to do and that’s why government is backing them. It’s going to have a hugely positive impact on millions of people’s daily lives.

    Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:

    I know I am one of many who enjoy the physical and mental health benefits that come with walking or cycling to work or school.

    That’s why this government is investing £616 million over the next 4 years, on top of £300 million announced in February, to give more people around the country high-quality and healthy ways to get around, and supporting mayors’ plans to create a joined-up network.

    It is a key part of our Plan for Change, boosting local businesses, growing local economies and easing pressure on the NHS.

    As part of the agreement, the Mayors have committed to:

    1. Work with the Department for Transport, Active Travel England and local authorities to create a country-wide national walking, wheeling and cycling network, comprising local networks that are safe and easy to use. This will give their regions’ 20 million residents access to high-quality, safe routes in their communities.
    2. Transform the school run by delivering high-quality, safer routes in neighbourhoods nationwide.
    3. Boost regional integrated transport networks by giving people easy walking, wheeling and cycling access to buses, trams and trains, which will link to new housing and support local economic growth.

    The initiative comes as recent research shows 1 in 6 early deaths could be prevented with regular moderate exercise. Meanwhile, a study from 2023 to 2024 found that, in England, 35.8% of year 6 children were overweight or living with obesity, with 22.1% living with obesity.

    Chief Medical Officer Professor, Chris Whitty, said:

    Increasing physical activity has health benefits across the life course. As part of this, we need to make walking and cycling more accessible and safer, as well as access to green space easier and more equitable.

    This will help remove barriers to improving physical activity levels and could significantly improve the health of England’s increasingly urban population.

    The first wave of improving active travel routes to schools will include the delivery of proven and popular schemes, including school streets, traffic calming measures, new crossings and better pavements, clear of obstructions.

    Regional mayors will lead local implementation with interventions tailored to their communities’ needs and develop programmes to enable more active travel, such as walking and cycling buses for children.

    The programme will be delivered using regional resources with additional targeted investment from Active Travel England, improving efficiency by combining separate funding streams in a mission-led approach.

    General enquiries

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority welcomes Government’s reappointment of Chairman and appointment of Chief Executive

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

         The Hospital Authority (HA) today (July 2) welcomes the Government’s reappointment of Mr Henry Fan as the Chairman of the HA and the appointment of Dr Libby Lee as the Chief Executive of the HA.

         Mr Fan said, “I am very honoured to be reappointed and to continue serving the public together with the 90 000 staff members of the HA. I am also very much looking forward to working with Dr Lee again at the HA to jointly lead the ongoing reforms of the HA. Our future work focus will be on fully implementing the HA’s various reform initiatives, particularly the public healthcare fees and charges reform to be launched in January next year. The HA will continue to enhance its services regarding the wellbeing of patients and uphold the patient-centric value, and will continue to promote the sustainable development of public healthcare services.”

         The appointment of Dr Lee as the Chief Executive of the HA has been endorsed by the HA Board and approved by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, after a global search and thorough deliberation by the Selection Board appointed by the HA Board.

         “The HA Board has full confidence in Dr Lee’s wealth of experience in both clinical and management fields, and believes that her leadership capabilities and governance talents will continue to lead the HA to attain a higher level of achievement. Dr Lee demonstrates clear vision and aspirations for the HA’s future development, and will lead the HA to face future challenges, continue reforms, enhance public hospital services, and move towards sustainable development, with the staunch support of all HA staff members,” Mr Fan said.

         “With the support of the Health Bureau and the HA Board, all staff members of the HA, Dr Lee, and I will continue to work together to enhance public hospital services and provide quality and sustainable public healthcare services for Hong Kong citizens. We will continue to strengthen our manpower and enhance exchanges with healthcare professionals worldwide, particularly from the Mainland. At the same time, we will continue to upgrade the facilities and service capacity of public hospitals to address the challenges of an ageing society and surging service demand,” Mr Fan added.

         Dr Lee expressed that she is deeply honoured to be appointed as the Chief Executive of the HA. “I am very grateful for the trust of the Government and the HA Board in appointing me to lead the HA. With the staunch support of all HA staff members, the Health Bureau, and the HA Board, as well as close collaboration with healthcare sector and community partners, I firmly believe that the HA will certainly reach new heights and benefit patients.”

         The current Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko, welcomed the reappointment of Mr Fan and congratulated Dr Lee on her appointment to the new position. He believes that with Dr Lee’s extensive management experience at the Health Bureau and the HA, as well as her visionary perspective on public health policy and public healthcare services, she will certainly continue to drive the HA reforms and benefit patients.

         Dr Ko will complete his contract and step down on July 31, with Dr Lee taking up her new role immediately on August 1. Mr Fan extends his appreciation to Dr Ko for his years of service to patients in public hospitals, particularly his contributions and outstanding performance to the HA and public healthcare services during his tenure as Chief Executive. He led the HA in navigating various challenges, especially in leading HA staff members in fighting the epidemic, and in fully promoting the HA’s sustainable development, talent exchange and reforms after the epidemic, marking important milestones for the HA at different stages. On behalf of all HA staff members, Mr Fan wishes Dr Ko every happiness after his departure.

         Mr Fan also congratulated Dr Cecilia Fan on her appointment as the Under Secretary for Health, believing that Dr Fan’s extensive experience in public health over the years will certainly elevate Hong Kong’s public health policies to new heights and promote more public health services that meet the needs of Hong Kong citizens.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council partnership secures long-term base for Coundon Court FC

    Source: City of Coventry

    Coventry City Council has partnered with Coundon Court Football Club to secure its future at Coundon Hall Park, establishing the site as the long-term home of the local club.

    After being accepted onto the Football Foundation’s Home Advantage Programme, the club is set to take on a 25-year lease of the pitches at Coundon Hall Park.

    The Football Foundation’s Home Advantage Programme is supported by the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation. It aims to support grassroots clubs and organisations across the country to take on long-term leases or licences of the sites they play at.

    The club will also have the opportunity to apply for up to £250,000 in grant funding from the Foundation to improve the facilities at Coundon Hall Park. This could include security fencing, storage units, grounds maintenance machinery and catering cabins.

    Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport, said: “It’s been fantastic to work with Coundon Court Football Club to secure their future at Coundon Hall Park.

    “Supporting local sports clubs which give members of our community the opportunity to get out, get active and take part in something they enjoy is really important.

    “This support from the Football Foundation and the Home Advantage Programme will make a real impact and firmly cement the club’s future. In addition, it will show how this could be a model across the city of best practice.”

    Coundon Court FC is a 3-star England Football-accredited club with over 30 teams, and disability and community programmes. Named ‘Club of the Year’ by Birmingham County FA, it’s proudly rooted in the local community.

    Barry Morris, Club Secretary at Coundon Court Football Club, added: “We see this as a huge opportunity for our club to have a home of its own, enabling us to offer more football provision within the local community.

    “After collecting the ‘Club of the Year’ accolade from Birmingham FA for the second time in 4 years, we already have a fantastic foundation to work from and will continue to progress.

    “Thanks to Coventry City Council and the Football Foundation for their support and confidence in working with our club on this exciting and innovative project.”

    The planned Coundon Cycleway has also been designed to accommodate the improvements at the park.

    Councillor Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, said: “We have planned the route of the Cycleway to allow for a full range of activities in the park – this includes allowing room for the exciting new multi-use games area and future football pitches – spaces where local young people can come together, be active, and have fun.

    “The Coundon Cycleway scheme, funded by Active Travel England, will create a new cycleway through the park by utilising existing paths and well-trodden pedestrian routes. The project will also enhance the area with new lighting, benches, and tree planting. Additional improvements include the installation of extra bins and CCTV in both car parks, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable environment for all visitors.”

    Robert Sullivan, CEO of the Football Foundation, said: “The Football Foundation is working closely with our partners – the Premier League, The FA and Government – to unlock the power of pitches for more grassroots clubs and enable them to take pride in the place they call home.

    “We know that local authorities often lack the resources to maintain their grass pitches to a high standard, and yet the process of transferring management is often seen as complicated, expensive and therefore unattractive.

    “Through our Home Advantage Programme, the Foundation plans to provide the support and funding needed to transfer over 1,750 grass football pitches like the ones at Coundon Hall Park from local authorities to grassroots clubs and organisations across the country.

    “As well as a higher chance of success on the pitch, home grounds provide a space for people to come together through sport and help strengthen communities based on a shared sense of belonging.”

    To find out more about the programme visit the Football Foundation’s website.

    Image caption: Ant Hasker – Facilities and Investment Lead, Birmingham County FA, Eddie Gormley – Coundon Court FC Club Chairman, Peter Howarth – Coundon Court FC Volunteer, Barry Morris – Coundon Court FC Secretary, Lee Garratt – Coundon Court FC Club Manager Coordinator, Councillor Patricia Hetherton – Cabinet Member for City Services and Tim Wetherhill – Coventry City Council Parks Manager

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry Music and Go CV strike a chord with new partnership

    Source: City of Coventry

    Following the success of the city’s first-ever Coventry Schools’ Arts Week, Coventry City Council is proud to announce an exciting new partnership between Coventry Music and Go CV.

    This initiative, launching in September 2025, will open up more opportunities for young people and families across Coventry to engage with music, helping to break down financial barriers to participation.

    As part of this new collaboration:

    • Go CV+ members will receive a 25% discount on direct billed music lessons with Coventry Music.
    • All Go CV card holders – regardless of card type – will enjoy free access to nearly all Coventry Music Groups.

    This partnership represents a significant step towards making music education and community engagement more accessible and inclusive for all.

    Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills at Coventry City Council said: “Music has the power to inspire, unite, and transform lives. This new partnership between Coventry Music and Go CV will ensure that more children and young people can access high-quality music opportunities, regardless of their background. It’s another step towards a fairer, more creative Coventry.”

    The announcement follows a hugely successful Coventry Schools’ Arts Week, which saw schools across the city come together in a vibrant celebration of creativity. The new partnership builds on this momentum, strengthening the Council’s commitment to cultural growth and lifelong learning.

    Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing said: “It’s fantastic to see another exciting expansion of the Go CV scheme. Go CV continues to make a real difference for people across our city — helping families save money, access fantastic opportunities, and enjoy all that Coventry has to offer. It’s a great example of how we can support local communities and promote health, wellbeing and inclusion.”

    Go CV, which is used by over 125,000 residents in the city, gives access to discounts and offers when visiting local attractions. Through the Go CV mobile app, savings can be made when shopping at local businesses too.

    Residents living in Coventry can join Go CV for free via the Go CV website. Businesses interested in partnering with Go CV and creating an offer for Coventry residents can register for free via the business portal.

    More about Coventry Music

    To keep up to date with the latest news, sign up for the Your Coventry email newsletter or follow the Council on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    Wednesday, 2nd July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: An exhibition about the capital’s tour guides will open in Moscow

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An unusual photo exhibition will open in the courtyard of the Museum of Moscow on July 5. This is a visual dedication to modern tour guides — people who show the capital from new angles to city residents and travelers every day. You can see the exhibition until August 31. Admission is free.

    “It is thanks to the guides that we see Moscow in all its beauty and diversity. The city highly values their professionalism, knowledge, energy and love for their work. Mosturism supports the excursion community, unites it and helps improve the quality of excursion services in the capital, including holding professional skills competitions, unique shows and events at cultural heritage sites. More than 1.5 thousand guides have already been certified in the city,” said Alexander Chernov, head of the department for the coordination of tourist and excursion activities of the autonomous non-profit organization “Project Office for the Development of Tourism and Hospitality of Moscow.”

    The heroes of the new exhibition project are 18 Moscow tour guides. Their favorite places and length of service are indicated next to their portraits on the stands. In addition, a short description of one of the routes is given, and a QR code is posted that leads to the guide’s personal page on the Russpass service. There you can learn more about their excursions and book a specific walk.

    “The Museum of Moscow is one of the oldest in the capital, and since its foundation, our relations with the city and research work have not been limited to exhibition projects. Since 1946, the museum has had a city excursion bureau, and today our guides create and conduct excursions along a variety of routes – from Ostozhenka to Zelenograd and Kapotnya. In addition, we train new guides at our school “Moskvaguide” and are happy when they receive accreditation and continue working on the streets of the capital. Therefore, a project that brings to the forefront the work of independent guides who find professional self-realization through love for the city is especially close to us,” said Anna Trapkova, General Director of the Museum Association “Museum of Moscow”.

    The goal of the project is not only to show the work of tour guides, but also to inspire new storytellers to create original and interesting routes, to emphasize the importance of this work for preserving cultural heritage. And also to remind how many amazing stories of Moscow are waiting to be explored.

    The exhibition is not the only way to popularize the profession of a guide and intracity tourism. Since 2020, Mosturism has been holding the “Show Moscow!” competition. Anyone can take part and suggest an original route — from professional guides to amateurs. Until July 14, city residents vote for the best option on the project’s website “Active Citizen”. 60 versions of thematic walks in 12 districts of Moscow made it to the finals, and in total this year a record number of works were submitted to the competition – more than 800.

    Quickly find out the main news of the capital in official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156156073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Gauteng deeds office remains open for business

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development has reassured that the South Gauteng Deeds Office remains open and fully operational, despite recent media reports claiming the facility’s closure.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, the department acknowledged that while the facility is experiencing infrastructure challenges, services to the public and clients continue uninterrupted.

    “The department has previously acknowledged the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) issues in the building, which include, sometimes, dysfunctional lifts, intermittent poor lighting, and other challenges.

    “Additionally, we have indicated that the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is in the process of securing a suitable building. It has been incorrectly reported by the media that services have been compromised,” the department said.

    The department said the area, which is currently experiencing delays, is the data capturing after registration.

    Despite these challenges, the department has assured that performance targets continue to be met and exceeded.

    “In terms of the target of 95% of deeds and documents made available within seven days from the date of lodgements for execution, the office performance is at 97%. The office exceeded the target.

    “In terms of the target of 95% of deeds delivered within 10 days from the date of registration, the office delivered 99% in 32 days. The backlog is due to the Occupational Health and Safety challenges,” the department said.

    To address the situation, interim alternative working arrangements have been implemented to ensure business continuity, and additional measures are underway to address the data capturing backlog.

    “Members of the public and clients requiring services at the South Gauteng Deeds Office are advised to note that the office is open and operational,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za   
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Supervision gaps can lead to child abuse – what can be done?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marg Rogers, Senior Lecturer, Early Childhood Education; Post Doctoral Fellow, Manna Institute, University of New England

    Suwatchai Pluemruetai/Shutterstock

    The horrific allegations of child abuse by an early childhood educator in Victoria came to light at a time when the early learning sector was already under fire for previous abuse revelations and safety breaches.

    Parents of young children in early learning services have good reason to be concerned, and it’s important to understand the way learning environments and grooming behaviours interfere with supervision.

    Recent worrying developments

    In March this year, an ABC Four Corners investigation revealed a rising number of breaches and safety concerns in Australian early childhood services.

    Recently, in Queensland, a paedophile was allowed to keep abusing children in services for years because agencies didn’t share complaints about an educator’s sexually abusive behaviour.

    In Australia, 50.4% of children aged five and under, and 35.3% of children aged 12 and under use approved care services such as daycare or after-school care. That’s more than 1.4 million children from more than a million families.

    The vast majority of services and educators are doing an excellent job of educating and caring for our children.

    But due to the recent spate of incidents, many parents have raised important questions about the level of supervision of children, and how acts of abuse can occur in busy services where there are a large number of people.

    Supervision policies and ratios

    There are national standards, laws and regulations about ratios applicable to services in all states and territories, with some very minor variations.

    The ratios between educators and children depend on the type of service and the age of the children. Babies up to 24 months need one educator for every four children. For 24-36 months, this generally increases to one educator for every five children.

    Preschoolers (3-5 years) require one educator for up to 11 children.

    According to government regulations, children should not be alone with educators.

    But challenges to active supervision include:

    • educator leave

    • a lack of casual educators

    • attrition

    • educator burnout and busyness

    • times of stress (including assessment and rating) when vast amounts of paperwork need to be done, reducing active supervision

    • loopholes such as “under the roof” ratios where every adult in the building (such as cleaners, administration staff and cooks) are illegally counted as educators

    • one-to-one times between children and educators, such as nappy changing and toileting

    • quiet and secluded spaces for children which can be very difficult to supervise, like tents and cubby houses.

    Grooming and supervision

    Grooming interferes with effective supervision in early childhood services.

    Abusers of children make the child feel special by giving them special presents, treats and sharing secrets with them. The child then feels cherished, seeking out the abuser.

    Using a variety of tactics, they usually isolate the child from those they are closest to, meaning they are less likely to disclose abuse.

    Abusers groom not only children but also parents, other educators and management. During this process, they are building trust and dependence.

    Children who are being groomed seek out the abuser, which means the child looks happy spending time with the adult, which seems innocent to those supervising.

    What changes are needed?

    While some improvements have been made, much more needs to happen to fix the long-neglected issues that allow abuse in early learning settings.

    Attracting more staff is a starting point, with more than 20,000 educators needed in Australia. This may require equal pay to school teachers with the same qualifications, and an overall improvement in wages.

    And the status of early childhood educators needs to be lifted within the community.

    Effective child protection training is also needed for educators that covers grooming behaviours.

    Additionally, parents need training on these behaviours and how to recognise signs their child might be being abused.

    Children need to learn ways to protect themselves from harm. They need to know what to do if someone asks them to keep secrets (different to surprises), pressures them to do something they don’t want to do, or uses threats.

    Overall, we need agencies responsible for child protection within and between states and territories to talk to each other and systems that work together to keep our children safe.

    If this story has raised any issues for you, please contact one of the services below:

    • 1800 Respect, National counselling helpline: 1800 737 732
    • Bravehearts, counselling and support for survivors of child sexual abuse: 1800 272 831
    • Child Wise, counselling provider: 1800 991 099
    • Lifeline, 24-hour crisis support and suicide preventio: 13 11 14
    • Care Leavers Australia Network: 1800 008 774
    • PartnerSPEAK, peer support for non-offending partners: (03) 9018 7872

    Marg Rogers received Commonwealth funding for her postdoctoral fellowship with the Manna Institute.

    – ref. Supervision gaps can lead to child abuse – what can be done? – https://theconversation.com/supervision-gaps-can-lead-to-child-abuse-what-can-be-done-260284

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ14: The Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ14: The Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints 
    Question:
     
    It is mentioned in the website of the Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints (JO) that “under normal circumstances, seepage caused by the penetration of rainwater through roofs, flat roofs, balconies, external walls or windows of a building or from leaking water pipes will not have public health implications and is not nuisance actionable by the Regional Joint Office under the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132)”. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the number of requests for assistance relating to water seepage received by JO in each year since 2022 and, among them, the number of those in which the seepage was caused by the penetration of rainwater through roofs, flat roofs, balconies, external walls or windows of a building or from leaking water pipes, and thus could not be handled by JO;
     
    (2) as there are views that JO currently carries out water seepage investigations by issuing nuisance notices or orders under Cap. 132, the scope of which is confined to the wilful damage to drains, cesspools, wells or nuisance to any sanitary convenience, but the existing mechanism fails to effectively address the predicament faced by members of the public who have long been suffering from water seepage caused by defective waterproofing layers on rooftops, whether the authorities will consider amending Cap. 132 to gradually include important water seepage problems (e.g. rooftop leakage) in the definition of “nuisance”, so as to expand the enforcement responsibilities of JO, such that the affected members of the public will be provided with assistance; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) given that under section 34H of the Building Management Ordinance (Cap. 344) concerning the “duty to maintain property”, “where a person who owns any part of a building, has the right to the exclusive possession of any part of a building or has the exclusive right to the use, occupation or enjoyment of that part, as the case may be, but the deed of mutual covenant in respect of the building does not impose an obligation on that person to maintain the part in good repair and condition, that person shall maintain that part in good repair and condition”, whether the authorities will consider amending the relevant provisions to stipulate that all the owners or owners’ corporations owe an obligation to undertake maintenance works to keep the property in “good repair and condition”, and at the same time expanding the powers of JO to issue warnings to and impose penalties on defaulters; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    Proper management and maintenance of private property is the responsibility of property owners. If water seepage occurs in private buildings, the owners concerned may first co-operate among themselves to engage professionals or consultancy firms for carrying out water seepage investigation to identify the source of seepage and conducting necessary repair works to fulfill owners’ responsibility of proper management, maintenance and repair of buildings. Consultancy firms or professionals are also available in the market to provide services for investigating and handling water seepage problems. A list of consultancy firms and experts providing professional advice and services on water seepage problems has been uploaded onto the websites of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) and the Buildings Department (BD) for public reference. When the water seepage condition concerned has caused health nuisance, risk to structural safety of the building or water waste, the Government will take enforcement action in accordance with the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132) (PHMSO), the Buildings Ordinance (Cap. 123) (BO) and the Waterworks Ordinance (Cap. 102) respectively.
     
    If owners are unable to resolve water seepage problems in consultation with their neighbours, they can seek assistance from the Joint Office (JO) jointly set up by the FEHD and the BD. Through inter-departmental co-ordination, the JO seeks to identify the source of water seepage using one-stop and systematic testing methods and requires the owners concerned to carry out repair works by exercising the powers conferred by the law, leveraging the expertise of relevant departments and with co-operation of the owners or occupants concerned.
       
    Having consulted the Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB), the FEHD and the Home Affairs Department, the replies to the various parts of the question are as follows:

    (1) If the water seepage constitutes a health nuisance, the JO will follow up on the case in accordance with the PHMSO and take criminal prosecution action as appropriate. If rainwater seepage through rooftops, podiums, balconies, external walls or windows of buildings poses building safety risks (e.g. concrete spalling from ceilings, corrosion of reinforcement), or if the seepage is related to defective drainage pipes such as rainwater pipes or foul water pipes of the buildings, the JO will refer the case to the BD for action in accordance with the BO. If water supply pipes are found to be defective and resulting in wastage of water supply, the JO will refer the case to the Water Supplies Department (WSD) for action under the Waterworks Ordinance. 
    For rooftop water seepage, the JO will refer the case to the BD under the aforementioned mechanism. Based on the investigation results, the BD will issue an advisory letter to the owner concerned to carry out water seepage investigations and follow-up actions as soon as possible. If the seepage is found to constitute building structural safety risk, the BD may issue a building repair order, an investigation order or a drainage repair order in accordance with the BO as appropriate. With regard to defective buildings or drains, a person is liable to an offence for failing to comply with a statutory order served under the law to carry out remedial works.
     
    Since the aforesaid mechanism for handling rooftop water seepage has been serving its purpose, the EEB considers that currently it is not necessary to amend the PHMSO. 
    The Public Health and Municipal Services (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 (the Amendment Ordinance) was passed by the Legislative Council and will come into operation on August 17, 2025. To expedite the handling of public health nuisances such as water seepage in buildings, the Amendment Ordinance will extend the hours during which public officers are allowed to enter premises from the existing 7am to 7pm to 7am to 10pm, and non-compliance with the Notice of Intended Entry will be an offence punishable by a fine up to level 2 (i.e. $5,000). To enhance the deterrent effect, the penalty for non-compliance with Nuisance Notices and Orders will be increased from a fine at Level 3 to Level 4 (i.e. $10,000 to $25,000) and from a fine at Level 4 to a fine at Level 5 (i.e. $25,000 to $50,000).
    Issued at HKT 16:01

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointments of Under Secretary for Health, as well as Chairman and Chief Executive of Hospital Authority (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government announced today (July 2) the following appointments:
     
     (1) Dr Cecilia Fan Yuen-man has been appointed as the Under Secretary for Health and will assume office on July 14, 2025;
     (2) Dr Libby Lee Ha-yun has been appointed as the Chief Executive of the Hospital Authority (HA) with effect from August 1, 2025, for a term of three years; and
     (3) Mr Henry Fan Hung-ling, the incumbent Chairman of the HA, has been reappointed for a term of one year with effect from December 1, 2025.
     
         The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, has appointed Dr Cecilia Fan as the Under Secretary for Health to succeed Dr Libby Lee.  Dr Lee has tendered her resignation and will leave her post on July 14, and Dr Fan will assume the post of Under Secretary for Health on the same day.
     
         The HA Board commenced open recruitment of its Chief Executive this January to succeed Dr Tony Ko, who will not seek reappointment upon completion of his contract at the end of July this year. The Selection Board was led by the HA Chairman and, after a global recruitment process and prudent consideration, recommended the appointment of Dr Lee as the Chief Executive of the HA. The appointment has been endorsed by the HA Board and approved by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
     
         Dr Lee will join the HA to assume the post of Chief Executive on August 1. Advice from the Advisory Committee on Post-office Employment for Former Chief Executives and Politically Appointed Officials has been sought on the appointment.
     
         The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, welcomed the newly appointed Under Secretary for Health, Dr Fan, to the Health Bureau, and looked forward to jointly promoting healthcare reform and innovation in the HKSAR as well as improving and protecting public health with her. “Dr Fan has extensive experience in public health management, and participated in the co-ordination of anti-epidemic and disaster relief efforts on multiple occasions, receiving commendations from the Chief Executive and the National Health Commission and demonstrating the leadership and adaptability skills necessary to promote reform,” he said.
     
         Professor Lo also thanked Dr Lee, who will soon leave the post of the Under Secretary for Health and take up the post of the Chief Executive of the HA, and said, “Dr Lee joined the HA after graduation from medical school and had long been serving in the public healthcare system until she took up the post of the Under Secretary in 2022. Dr Lee has served as the Under Secretary for almost three years and has showcased her excellent leadership, presentation and interpersonal skills. She also has a thorough understanding of the challenges faced by the healthcare system and the strategies on a macro level and will surely lead, in her new capacity, the HA to drive reform and innovation, enhancing public healthcare services.
     
         “As the cornerstone of the healthcare system, the governance of the HA is the most important part of the deepening of the healthcare system reform. I am thankful to Mr Fan for continuing to serve as the Chairman and supporting the reform pursued by the Government. I trust that the HA, under the leadership of Mr Fan and Dr Lee, will further take forward the relevant work in the future to ensure that the public healthcare system will provide the public with healthcare services of higher quality, safety and effectiveness.
     
         “I would also like to take this opportunity to express once again my appreciation for Dr Ko, who most earnestly made significant contributions to the development of the public healthcare system over the years. I wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
     
         Following are the biographical notes on the appointed Under Secretary for Health and Chief Executive of the HA:
     
    Dr Cecilia Fan Yuen-man
    �����
         Aged 57, Dr Cecilia Fan is currently Consultant Family Medicine (Elderly Health Service) of the Department of Health (DH).
     
         Dr Fan joined the DH in 1992 and has served therein for over 30 years.  Apart from family medicine and elderly health services, she co-ordinated and participated in work in various areas, including the Professional Development and Quality Assurance Service. She also took part in co-ordination work at medical posts of quarantine centres during multiple epidemics, including outbreaks of the severe acute respiratory syndrome in 2003, human swine influenza in 2009, and COVID-19during 2020-2022. In February 2023, Dr Fan led the DH’s medical team to join the HKSAR search and rescue team in frontline search and rescue work at the quake-stricken areas in Türkiye. She was the only person from the SAR who received the National Outstanding Individuals in the Foreign Medical Aid commendation by the National Health Commission.
     
         Dr Fan holds a medical degree from the University of Hong Kong and a master’s degree in public health from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, as well as a number of professional qualifications. She is trained as a family physician.

    Dr Libby Lee Ha-yun
    �����
         Aged 53, Dr Libby Lee has been the Under Secretary for Health since July 2022.
     
         Dr Lee joined the executive team of the HA in 2008 and was promoted to Director of Strategy and Planning in 2016.  During her tenure as the Director of Strategy and Planning, she oversaw the formulation of strategies and operational plans, the co-ordination of community and primary care services, and the planning and implementation of capital works projects in relation to the HA’s provision of healthcare services. Her duties at that post also included conducting studies and analyses in relation to demographic changes and challenges faced by the HA and projecting corresponding resource requirements. Dr Lee has served on various professional bodies including as Council Member for the Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists and the Hong Kong College of Community Medicine.
     
         Dr Lee holds a medical degree and a master’s degree in public health from the University of Hong Kong as well as a number of professional qualifications. She is trained as an anaesthesiologist and a practitioner in administrative medicine.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Senegal Introduces Hexavalent Vaccine into its National Immunization Programme


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    On July 1, 2025, Senegal officially launched the introduction of the hexavalent vaccine into its Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI). Following in Mauritania’s footsteps, Senegal is part of this regional dynamic of vaccine innovation. This vaccine is a combination that protects against six diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib), and poliomyelitis. It replaces the pentavalent and inactivated polio vaccines (IPV), previously administered separately.

    The introduction of hexavalent meets three major scientific objectives. Firstly, to reduce the number of injections infants undergo at each visit: a single injection now replaces the two previously required for Penta and IPV. Secondly, to reinforce protection against polio by increasing the number of doses of inactivated vaccine from two to three before the age of 6 months. Thirdly, to introduce an essential booster dose at 15 months, in line with the latest recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), to consolidate herd immunity and optimize the vaccination schedule.

    This change is also a response to regional issues, as some derived poliovirus variants are still circulating in Africa, and the WHO recommends two-dose IPV coverage to deal with this.

    Funding for this introduction is provided mainly by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which covers most of the costs associated with the supply of doses. The Senegalese government is contributing a further 20%, demonstrating its commitment to the sustainability of this program.

    This is a game-changer for children’s health in Senegal, as the teams not only protect children more effectively but also strengthen the fight against polio, which remains a global public health emergency of international concern.

    In his speech, Dr Ibrahima Sy, Minister of Health and Social Action, underlined the significance of this reform: “For the past 18 months, our teams have been working tirelessly to prepare this transition. Hexavalent embodies our commitment to offering Senegalese children simplified and reinforced protection. Thanks to this vaccine, we expect to avoid 2,300 hospitalizations a year from targeted diseases by 2030.” The Minister also paid tribute to the technical partners and health workers whose dedication has made this breakthrough possible.

    The WHO has played a central role in the success of this transition. Nearly 6,000 health workers, including district management teams (ECD) and regional management teams (ECR), have been trained in the specifics of the new vaccine. This intensive training covered the rigorous management of the cold chain, as hexavalent must be kept between +2°C and +8°C and never frozen. Agents were also certified on precise intramuscular administration techniques in the right thigh of infants, and on the protocol for monitoring benign side effects such as local redness or transient fever. To ensure a smooth transition, the WHO provided real-time monitoring tools enabling each vial to be traced throughout the country.

    WHO also supported the development of interpersonal communication materials, enabling health workers to better explain the change to parents, reassure them of the vaccine’s safety, and stress the importance of adhering to the vaccination schedule.

    Dr Jean-Marie Vianny Yameogo, WHO Representative in Senegal, hailed this historic milestone: “This launch marks 46 years of evolution for the Senegalese EPI. Hexavalent is not simply a scientific advance, it is an act of equity that protects every child, whatever their origin. By reducing the burden of preventable diseases, we are unleashing the potential of an entire generation.”

    As a long-standing EPI partner, UNICEF has also contributed to the supply, logistics, and awareness-raising around this essential vaccine. Dr Jacques Boyer, UNICEF Representative in Senegal, underlined: “This introduction marks a decisive turning point for the survival and well-being of children. By strengthening access to a more complete and convenient vaccine, we are bringing Senegal closer to a future where every child has an equal chance to grow up healthy.”

    This initiative positions Senegal as a key player in vaccine innovation in sub-Saharan Africa. By merging several antigens into a single product, the country is demonstrating how to optimize healthcare systems with limited resources. Reducing the number of injections not only improves the experience of children and parents, but also simplifies logistics, cuts storage costs, and boosts immunization coverage rates. According to projections, this strategy will make a significant contribution to achieving the goals of the WHO’s IA2030 Agenda, which aims to save 50 million lives through immunization by the end of the decade. Several neighboring countries, such as Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso, are already studying this model for their own programs.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Senegal.

    MIL OSI Africa –