Science & Health - Sisi Afrika Magazine

Nigeria Floods and Worsening Food Insecurity

Despite the impact of flooding on food security, it is not recognised as a threat by policymakers, as evidenced by the national agricultural plans which don’t even acknowledge the role of disasters on food security.

by The Conversation October 29, 2022October 29, 2022

Science & Health

Kenya Has Lifted its Ban on Genetically Modified Crops: the Risks and Opportunities

Kenya recently lifted a ban on the cultivation and importation of genetically modified crops amid the worst drought in 40 years and soaring food prices. This includes white maize, the country’s main staple. The decision was welcomed by scientists who see GM crops as the answer for food security. But it is opposed by a spirited lobby who are concerned about potential risks to health and the environment.

by The Conversation October 23, 2022October 29, 2022

Science & Health

The Most Common Health Issues in the World Today and Their Underlying Causes

The past few decades have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people suffering from chronic health conditions. While some of these conditions are well-known and understood, others are only just beginning to be recognized.

by Sisi Afrika Magazine - September 5, 2022September 5, 2022

Diseases & Conditions

Culturally Sanctioned Silence on Male Infertility

Even though males are solely responsible for 20-30 percent of all infertility cases and contribute to 50 percent of cases overall, infertility is still viewed as a woman’s burden, while male infertility remains invisible, enjoying socially sanctioned silence to avoid upsetting hegemonic masculinity.

by Richard Oduor Oduku June 15, 2022June 15, 2022

Space Science

African Scientists and Technology Could Drive Future Black Hole Discoveries

We were the only two of more than 300 EHT team members based on the African continent. The continent doesn’t host any EHT telescopes – we were brought on board because of expertise we’ve developed in preparation for the world’s largest radio telescope, the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), to be co-hosted by South Africa and Australia.

by The Conversation May 19, 2022May 18, 2022

Science & Health

South African Community’s Request for its Genetic Data Raises Questions about Ethical and Equitable Research

Scientists conduct helicopter research when they collect data from developing countries and marginalized communities with little to no involvement from local researchers and community members.

by The Conversation April 20, 2022April 21, 2022

Diseases & Conditions Science & Health

Early Pregnancy Can Put Young Women’s Mental Health at Risk: A Review of African Evidence

Adolescent pregnancies are a major public health concern. They can lead to unplanned parenthood and poor health outcomes for young women. Early, unintended pregnancy can add stress to the normal physiological and behavioural changes of this time of life

by The Conversation March 29, 2022April 3, 2022

Diseases & Conditions Science & Health

Kenya Has a Yellow Fever Outbreak: How to Deal With It

Yellow fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic disease which is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. It is also possible to contract the disease from the bite of an infected primate or human.

by The Conversation March 28, 2022April 3, 2022

Health Systems Science & Health

How COVID Has Affected the Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases

Drug programmes have been interrupted, health budgets re-prioritised and aid cut.

by The Conversation March 14, 2022April 3, 2022

Diseases & Conditions Science & Health

Wins, Missteps and Lessons: African Experts Reflect on Two Years of COVID Response

Now, most of the world is opening up. The Conversation Africa spoke to public health experts based in Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa to get their take on the biggest lessons so far.

by The Conversation March 12, 2022April 3, 2022