AGP Executive Report

Ebola Response: Canada’s top health official says an Ontario patient tested negative for Ebola after returning from Ethiopia, while new border screening measures are now in place as the DRC outbreak worsens. Border Health Measures: The UK Foreign Office warns travellers to Kenya may face “enhanced health screening,” including people arriving from Ethiopia and other affected routes. Ethiopia’s Health Security: Ethiopia says it has strengthened self-reliance for pandemic detection and response, including scaling oxygen production from 3 plants to 83 and improving clinical supply chains. Neglected Disease Push: Gilead and WHO renewed a five-year partnership to accelerate visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar) elimination, with major support for East Africa including Ethiopia. Digital Health & IDs: Ethiopia’s Fayda digital ID drive is seeking “Super Agents” to speed underserved registrations, as the country expands digital public infrastructure.

WHO–Gilead VL Push: Gilead renewed a five-year partnership with the World Health Organization to eliminate visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar), pledging 402,941 vials of AmBisome plus $9.2m for diagnosis and treatment—sharply focused on high-burden East Africa, including Ethiopia. Health Workforce Mobility: Ethiopia and Barbados signed an MoU to support ethical recruitment and workforce mobility of Ethiopian health professionals, aiming to ease shortages while keeping standards transparent. Digital ID for Services: Ethiopia’s Fayda expansion is calling for “Super Agents” to speed up large-scale registration and reach underserved groups, after major enrollment and authentication gains. Humanitarian Funding Warning: Germany’s DAAD warns that planned budget cuts could suspend most international academic cooperation by 2031, raising concerns for capacity-building links that support health and research. Climate Risk for Health: IGAD’s seasonal outlook flags below-normal rainfall across parts of the northern Greater Horn—an early warning for food and water stress that can quickly become a health issue.

WHO & Global Health Governance: WHO election talk is turning into a bigger question of how the next director general can defend multilateral health rules in a more fractured world. Snakebite Risk: A new study warns venomous snakes may expand into new areas as climate and land-use change push reptiles into closer contact with people. Kala-Azar Push: Gilead renewed a five-year WHO partnership to accelerate elimination of visceral leishmaniasis, with added focus on East Africa and support for diagnostics and treatment. Ethiopia Digital ID Scaling: Ethiopia’s Fayda project is seeking more “Super Agents” to speed enrollment and reach underserved communities, after major gains in enrollments, authentications, and institutional integrations. Ethiopia–Qatar Cooperation: Ethiopia’s foreign affairs state minister met Qatar Fund for Development officials to expand collaboration in health, agriculture, energy, education, and aviation. Security & Health Tech: The US launched a biometric trucker registry, while maritime digital ID firm IDsure raised €600K to move seafarer compliance off paper. Ebola Watch: Coverage continues to track fast-moving Ebola concerns in the DRC, with WHO urging urgent readiness.

Ebola Alarm in DRC: WHO says it’s “deeply concerned” about the scale and speed of a fast-moving Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with officials reporting hundreds of suspected cases and rising deaths and warning that hard-to-reach areas are slowing lab confirmation and response. Regional Health Pressure: The African Union is urging stronger surveillance, preparedness, and rapid response across Congo and Uganda, warning of cross-border spread risk. Ethiopia at the World Health Assembly: In Geneva, Ethiopia’s Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba highlighted progress on maternal and child health, pushing for universal health coverage through primary care, community participation, and better support for health workers. Food Security Signals: WFP spotlights how hunger can surge during crises, while IGAD/ICPAC warns below-normal rainfall across much of the Greater Horn—raising the stakes for Ethiopia’s next rainy season. Global Health Remembrance: WHO marked the 20th anniversary of the death of former chief Lee Jong-wook, honoring his role in strengthening global health cooperation.

Customs Crackdown: A Tanzanian man was detained at Dhaka’s Shahjalal International Airport after officials found 80 cocaine capsules hidden in his stomach, weighing about 1.1kg, with tests now under way and legal proceedings started. Ebola Alert: The WHO chief says he’s “deeply concerned” about the “scale and speed” of a fast-moving Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, now flagged as an international emergency, with hundreds of suspected cases and no proven vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain. Ethiopia at the WHA: Ethiopia’s health minister told the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva that maternal and child health gains are continuing, with plans to push universal health coverage through primary care, stronger health worker support, and better access via technology. Food & Health Link: A global study reports that food-based prenatal supplements can improve birth outcomes, adding weight to nutrition-focused maternal care. Energy-Food Pressure: A UN report warns Middle East conflict and fuel disruptions are hitting developing economies unevenly, raising risks for health and food systems.

World Health Assembly Spotlight: Ethiopia’s Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba told the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva that the country is making “encouraging progress” on cutting maternal and child deaths, and will push universal health coverage through stronger primary care, community participation, and better support for health workers. Ebola Watch (DRC): The WHO chief again flagged the “scale and speed” of a fast-moving Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, warning that containment is urgent as cases and deaths rise and no vaccine or treatment exists for the Bundibugyo strain. Regional Climate Risk: IGAD’s ICPAC warned that June–September 2026 rainfall is likely below normal across much of the Greater Horn of Africa, with higher risk for Ethiopia, South Sudan, Uganda, and parts of Sudan and Kenya—raising pressure on health and nutrition planning. Health Diplomacy & Partnerships: Ethiopia also reaffirmed closer work with WHO, the African Union, and partners to meet Sustainable Development Goals. Aid and Health Systems: A separate thread this week highlighted how major donor aid cuts are reshaping health funding realities across Africa.

Ebola Alarm in DR Congo: WHO says it’s “deeply concerned” about the “scale and speed” of a fast-spreading Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo, now flagged as an international emergency, with reported deaths rising to about 131 and hundreds of suspected cases as teams rush to set up treatment in Ituri and respond across borders. Maternal Nutrition Boost: A global study finds food-based prenatal supplements that raise energy and protein during pregnancy can improve birth outcomes, adding weight to calls for stronger nutrition support in low- and middle-income settings. Big Philanthropy Push: The Rockefeller Foundation reports more than US$350m in 2025 grants, reaching an estimated 731 million people, with major focus on health security, food systems, and energy access. Ethiopia Data Sovereignty: Ethiopia’s officials say the country is moving toward greater control of its national data systems to strengthen policy independence and evidence-based planning. Health Workforce Readiness: WHO launches a strategy to build an emergency-ready health workforce by 2030, aiming to ensure a trained, connected share of staff can respond when crises hit.

Ebola Emergency: Health workers in eastern DR Congo are racing to contain a fast-spreading Ebola outbreak after WHO declared it a public health emergency of international concern, with suspected cases in Ituri and new confirmations reported across the region; WHO is moving protective supplies from Kinshasa and preparing more shipments while the CDC tightens traveler screening. Kenya Industry Pressure: Kenya’s manufacturers are worried as the sector’s economic contribution slipped to 7.1% in 2025, hit by high costs and cheap imports—raising doubts about a 2030 GDP target. Ethiopia Data Sovereignty: Ethiopia’s government says it’s gaining fuller control of how national data is collected and used for policy, supported by new household, tourism, and business surveys. Health Equity Abroad: Canada’s migrant workers face barriers to care, spotlighting how immigration status can block access to health services. Violence and Hate: A deadly shooting at a San Diego Islamic center is being investigated as a hate crime, with suspects also reported dead.

Data Sovereignty: Ethiopia says it is accelerating control of how national data is collected, stored and used for policymaking, shifting away from fragmented, externally supported systems as officials meet in Addis Ababa under “Data Sovereignty for Policy Autonomy.” Ebola Response: In eastern DRC, health workers are racing to contain a fast-spreading Ebola outbreak after late detection, with WHO warning of cross-border risk and treatment centres being set up in Ituri. Health Accountability: Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health has banned patient treatment testimonials in health service ads, while requiring media outlets to verify medical advertising claims. Digital Inclusion: Ethiopia showcased its Fayda Digital Identification Program at ID4Africa 2026, saying the system supports access to services including health. Education Pressure: A new analysis highlights that over 100 million African children remain out of school, with attendance gains stalling in recent years. Global Obesity Shift: A major study finds obesity is rising faster in low- and middle-income countries while plateauing in wealthy nations.

Vaccination Push: As leaders gather in Geneva, a new warning says the world is losing momentum on childhood immunisation—funding is down sharply and skepticism is rising, putting millions of children at greater risk. Fuel Crisis & Care Access: A lingering fuel shortage is now threatening medical supplies for millions, with rationing and transport disruptions worsening health service gaps. Ebola Watch: Africa CDC is monitoring a confirmed Ebola outbreak in DRC’s Ituri, with rapid coordination underway as cases cluster in high-mobility mining and urban areas. Somalia Famine Risk: Somalia’s hunger crisis is being driven by fertilizer and supply delays linked to the Middle East conflict, raising fears of faster deterioration toward famine. Ethiopia Health Policy: Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health has banned patient treatment testimonials in health service ads, while requiring media outlets to verify medical advertising claims. Regional Energy Moves: Uganda backs a regional oil refinery plan, signaling continued focus on local processing and integration. Sudan Civilian Harm: Reports say drone warfare is now a leading cause of civilian deaths in Sudan, with hospitals and markets among targets.

Somalia Famine Risk: Middle East conflict-linked supply shocks are pushing Somalia closer to famine, with fertilizer and food delays hitting farmers and families as acute food insecurity rises. Disability Inclusion: University of Gondar and Mastercard Foundation scholars marked a 10-year push for disability rights and inclusive higher education, backing hundreds of scholars and expanding access. Ethiopia Health Rules: Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health banned patient treatment testimonials in health service ads and requires media outlets to verify medical advertising claims. Digital Identity for Services: Ethiopia showcased its Fayda Digital Identification Program at ID4Africa 2026, aiming to improve access to services including health. Sudan Civilian Harm: UN-linked reporting says armed drones are now the leading cause of civilian deaths in Sudan, with attacks hitting hospitals and markets. Sports Loss: Ethiopian marathon star Yebrgual Melese died suddenly during training at Jan Meda. BRICS Diplomacy: BRICS foreign ministers met in New Delhi amid Iran-war and energy pressures, with India pushing governance reforms.

Health Advertising Crackdown: Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health has banned patient treatment testimonials in health service ads, with media outlets now required to verify medical claims before publishing—aiming to curb misleading promotion and protect public trust. Disaster Response Upgrade: The Council of Ministers approved a new Ethiopian Fire and Other Rapid Onset Disasters Service to act as the federal first responder, set national emergency standards, and run simulations, funded through the budget and the Disaster Risk Response Fund. Digital Health Access: Ethiopia showcased its Fayda Digital Identification Program at ID4Africa 2026, saying the secure national ID can link services including health and finance to improve inclusion and delivery. Public Health Watch: Africa CDC is monitoring a new Ebola outbreak in DRC’s Ituri, reporting suspected cases and deaths while coordinating a rapid response with partners. Women’s Health Pressure: A separate report highlights period poverty forcing women to pay for dignity—underscoring why the ad ban and service integrity matter for real access.

Health Advertising Crackdown: Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health has banned patient treatment testimonials in health service ads, and now requires media outlets to verify medical advertising claims before publishing or broadcasting. Disaster Readiness: The federal cabinet approved a new Ethiopian Fire and Other Rapid Onset Disasters Service to act as the first responder for sudden emergencies like fires, earthquakes, floods, chemical contamination, and aviation accidents. Digital Health Access: Ethiopia showcased its Fayda Digital Identification Program at ID4Africa 2026, highlighting how the national digital ID is meant to improve access to services including health. Regional Health Security: Africa CDC is monitoring a suspected Ebola outbreak in DRC’s Ituri, with preliminary lab results pointing to Ebola in 13 of 20 samples and an urgent coordination meeting planned. Public Health Risks in Conflict: Reports say drone warfare is driving a sharp rise in civilian deaths in Sudan, with drones reportedly targeting hospitals and other civilian sites. Climate Policy Push: African legislators meeting in Nairobi backed a united continental position on climate and methane negotiations, stressing development and food security priorities.

Sudan Drone Toll: UN officials say armed drones are now the leading cause of civilian deaths in Sudan, with at least 880 civilian deaths reported from January to April, and strikes hitting hospitals, schools, markets and even near Khartoum’s airport. Somali Region Drought Debate: Ethiopia’s Somali regional disaster bureau rejects claims of widespread drought damage, saying Gu rains are improving conditions in many areas, while acknowledging localized stress in zones like Afder and Shebelle. Ebola Alert in Ituri: Africa CDC says Ebola has been detected in 13 of 20 samples in DRC’s Ituri, with 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths reported, and an urgent coordination meeting underway as Bunia faces higher spread risk. Ethiopia Health & Aid: A new study links abrupt USAID shutdowns to a sustained rise in conflict across USAID-dependent African regions, raising concerns for fragile health and humanitarian systems. Ethiopia Agriculture Investment: Ethiopia’s potato sector is drawing money into seed systems and cold storage to cut a major yield and post-harvest losses gap. BRICS Governance Push: India used BRICS talks to call for urgent reforms to global institutions, citing divisions over West Asia and energy shocks.

Ebola Response in Ituri: Africa CDC says it’s monitoring a confirmed Ebola outbreak in DRC’s Ituri, with preliminary lab results detecting Ebola in 13 of 20 samples and reporting 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths, while an urgent high-level coordination meeting is convened amid risks from urban spread in Bunia, insecurity, and cross-border movement. Food, Fuel, Fertilizer Shock: Coverage links the Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz disruption to Africa’s looming fuel and fertilizer shortages—warning that fertilizer production could be hit hard, with knock-on effects for food security. Ethiopia–Korea Development Push: Ethiopia’s Ministry of Finance reviews progress with Republic of Korea partners, citing a portfolio exceeding $1.2bn and priorities across health, agriculture, infrastructure, and climate resilience. Clean Water Deal: Italy and Ethiopia sign a €5m agreement to restore polluted Kebena River tributaries with sewer, stormwater, riverbank protection, and riparian green zones. Aviation Compensation: A US jury awards $49.5m to the family of a health worker killed in the 2019 Boeing 737 MAX crash involving Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302.

Boeing MAX fallout in Ethiopia: A Chicago jury has ordered Boeing to pay $49.5 million to the family of Samya Stumo, a 24-year-old global health worker killed in the 2019 Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crash—one of the last major civil cases tied to the 737 MAX disasters. Drylands food resilience: ICRISAT and CIMMYT launched a five-year push to speed up climate-resilient crop breeding for dryland farmers in Eastern Africa and India, starting with sorghum and groundnut. Digital identity push: Africa Digital ID Hackathon 2026 crowned Senegal’s Team TrustSeal for practical solutions using national digital identity systems. Health and hunger pressure in Ethiopia: MSF warns Ethiopia’s Somali region is sliding into worse malnutrition and water shortages as drought, displacement, and shrinking aid budgets collide. BRICS diplomacy: Foreign ministers met in New Delhi as Iran war and energy insecurity dominated talks, with India urging a coordinated response to global crises.