Scientific Research

BES-Net Trialogue Promotes Biodiversity Solutions

Windhoek is hosting the BES-Net Regional Trialogue for East and Southern Africa, organized by the Environment, Forestry and Tourism ministry, UNDP, and BES-Net. The event aims to strengthen collaboration among experts to address biodiversity challenges. Executive Director Teofilus Nghitila emphasizes the importance of science-driven policies informed by real-world practices. Meanwhile, Alka Bhatia, the UNDP's Resident Representative said the trialogue embodies a spirit of cooperation which is needed to drive meaningful […]

19 February, 2025 79

World

Concern over byproduct of disinfectants found in U.S. drinking water

Researchers have identified a new chemical in U.S. drinking water, which is thought to be a by-product of the disinfectants used for decades to clean water of bacteria and water-borne illnesses. Scientists have recommended more research into the previously unknown compound to work out if it poses a threat to public health. Caroline Malone reports.

25 November, 2024 34

Science & Technology

Chinese crew to conduct experiments in space for six months

A Chinese spacecraft with a three-person crew, including the country's first female space engineer, has docked after a journey of more than six hours. The crew will use the homegrown space station as a base for six months to conduct experiments and carry out spacewalks. Laura Westbrook reports from Hong Kong.

30 October, 2024 38

Namibia

Nuclear science conference begins in Swakopmund

The 2nd Nuclear Science and Technology Conference is underway in Swakopmund. The conference brings together policymakers, scientists, experts, and nuclear industry players to explore the potential of nuclear science. Health Minister, Kalumbi Shangula.

24 October, 2024 57

Africa

BGI Genomics launches first African public health initiative to screen cervical cancer.

BGI Genomics have recently launched their first cervical cancer screening program in Africa with Rwanda being being the first beneficiary. The program that was initiated in Ngoma District in the Eastern Province of Rwanda will provide 20,000 Human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA tests for local women, aiming to enhance cervical cancer screening and prevention efforts and improve local precision medical testing capabilities. The launching event was attended by Wang Xuekun, Chinese […]

15 May, 2024 31

Environment

Agriculture Ministry calls for national drought emergency

The Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform has advised the government to declare a national drought emergency following its assessment of crop prospects and food security. According to Nampa, the recommendation was made after monitoring the situation in the seven major northern communal crop-producing regions from 12 February to 11 March 2024. Executive Director Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata highlighted significant distress grazing in the southern, western, and eastern parts of the […]

23 April, 2024 38

Africa

The San people of southern Africa: where ethics codes for researching indigenous people could fail them

By Stasja Koot, Wageningen University There is a long and often complicated history of researchers studying Indigenous people. In 1999, the education scholar Linda Tuhiwai-Smith, in her book Decolonizing Methodologies: Research and Indigenous Peoples, emphasised the colonial character of much research. She warned that it brings with it a new wave of exploration, discovery, exploitation and appropriation. Well into the 20th century, researchers depicted groups like the […]

13 February, 2024 26

Africa

UK Prime Minister opens Global Food Security Summit in London

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has opened a Global Food Security Summit in London. The conference, according to the BBC, is a joint initiative between Britain, Somalia, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as organisations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Representatives from more than 20 countries are attending. Sunak also announced a new virtual hub to link British scientists with global research into climate-resilient crops.

20 November, 2023 13