The Growing Trend Of Body Enhancement Among African Women

The Relationship Between Beauty And Health

Someone once said health is incomplete without beauty. This is due to the poise and self confidence which beauty endows on an individual, ultimately contributing to the general well being of that person. Beauty contributes to well-being by acting as a powerful tool for self-care, boosting mental health, and increasing self-confidence. According to experts, engaging in beauty rituals like grooming or skincare reduces stress (lowering cortisol) and releases "feel-good" hormones. A positive, personalized approach to appearance enhances emotional resilience and fosters self-love. 

It is at the backdrop of this reality that the craving for the right curves and perfect body shape has now assumed an unprecedented dimension amongst African women, especially those living in cities. Most of these body enhancements centre on Rhinoplasty  , Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL),  , Facelift and Eyelid Surgery, Tummy Tuck , Breast enlargement, Fat Reduction for body contouring among others.

The Rise In Body Enhancement Among African Women

Cravings for plastic surgery and body enhancement are increasing rapidly across Africa, particularly within urban, middle-class populations, driven by social media, celebrity culture, and shifting beauty standards. Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya are emerging as major hubs for these procedures, with a significant surge in demand for body contouring, such as Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) and liposuction. 

The market for cosmetic procedures in Africa is expanding significantly, with a growing number of people, predominantly women, opting for surgeries to align with global beauty ideals that often favor a "perfect" body shape. The desire for enhancement is most prevalent among urban individuals, particularly women between 26 and 33 years old, with many having at least a tertiary education.

Why African Women Are Craving For Body Enhancement

The growing trend of body enhancement, among African women, is driven by a combination of social, cultural, and psychological factors. Chief among these include the influence of Western media and social media, the pursuit of an "hourglass" figure, and a desire to boost confidence in response to body shaming. Western and local celebrities, particularly in the music and movie industries (e.g., Nollywood, BBNaija), often display exaggerated curves, setting new, often unattainable, beauty standards. While traditionally some African cultures valued larger bodies, there is a shifting preference toward a specific "hourglass" or "Coca-Cola" shape, which is often perceived as the peak of attractiveness, femininity, and even fertility.

Again, many African women experience intense pressure to conform to these new beauty standards, leading to the feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, and a desire to change their appearance to escape ridicule. Despite economic hardships in some regions, there is a high demand for both herbal and alternatives surgeries to increase buttock or breast size.

Some African women also seek enhancement as a way to regain confidence, especially after childbirth or to reverse perceived loss of body "firmness". Those who go for breasts enhancement largely fall in this category.

Body Enhancement Through Herbal Medication

Herbal medications and supplements have been known to assist with breast and buttock enlargement primarily by using plant-based compounds to mimic hormones or stimulate tissue growth. Many supplements contain herbs like Fenugreek, Fennel, Pueraria Mirifica, and Red Clover, which are rich in phytoestrogens. These compounds are believed to mimic estrogen in the body, which can cause fluid retention and potentially lead to temporary changes in breast tissue size and shape.

Herbs such as Saw Palmetto and Dong Quai are included to regulate hormones, creating an "estrogen-dominant" environment that experts say promotes fat deposition in the breasts and buttocks. Also, some products contain ingredients like Maca Root, which are known to promote muscle-building and, when paired with exercise, improve body curves.

The Advantages Of Using Herbal Medication For Body Enhancement

The main advantages of using herbal medication for body enhancement, such as breast and butt enlargement, focus on offering a non-invasive, more accessible, and potentially more natural alternative to surgical procedures. Proponents of these remedies, which often contain phytoestrogens and other plant-based ingredients, argue they can stimulate tissue growth and improve contours. 

Herbal methods provide an alternative to risky, invasive, and painful surgeries like breast implants or Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL). Herbal intervention for body enhancement is also relatively more affordable. Compared to the high costs associated with cosmetic surgery, herbal pills, creams, and oils are generally more affordable. These products often contain herbs such as Fenugreek, Saw Palmetto, Wild Yam, and Pueraria Mirifica, which are also believed to contain phytoestrogens that mimic human estrogen and help increase tissue size.

Besides, herbal remedies, including creams and capsules, are easily accessible, allowing individuals to use them privately at home without the downtime associated with surgery. Herbal medication also has added benefits other than body enhancement. Some products are marketed as not only enhancing size but also reducing menstrual symptoms, helping with acne, and increasing energy levels.

Disadvantages Of Using Herbal Medication For Body Enhancement

Using herbal medications, pills, or creams for breast and buttock enlargement presents some health, safety, and efficacy disadvantages. In most countries, herbal products are often not properly regulated, leading to abuse and false claims to lure the unsuspecting consumer. Again, there are no adequate clinical procedures, especially with new entries in the market, to ascertain their effectiveness.

The issue of self medication is more common with herbal products. Most people who apply these herbal medications do not do so under the advice and supervision of a health expert. They just order them online or get them over the counter and begin to apply without real expert guidance from a genuine herbal doctor.

Body Enhancement Through Alternative Plastic Surgery

Apart from Herbal medication, many people, especially those who have the financial means of doing so, are now looking in the direction of alternative plastic surgery to redefine their body shape. Surgery helps in attaining desirable body shapes by offering targeted, precise, and often permanent alterations to fat distribution, skin elasticity, and muscular structure that diet and exercise cannot achieve alone. Plastic surgery, specifically body contouring, is designed to reshape and balance the body’s frame rather than acting as a weight-loss tool. 

Liposuction removes stubborn fat pockets that are resistant to diet and exercise, such as love handles, saddlebags, or a double chin, allowing for improved contouring of the waist, thighs, and stomach.

Another area is that of fat redistribution. Fat is harvested from one area (e.g., abdomen) and injected into another (e.g., buttocks or breasts) to enhance curves, such as in a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

Procedures like tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) or body lifts also remove excess, sagging skin and tighten underlying abdominal muscles, which is especially useful after significant weight loss. 

Advantages Of Using Alternative Plastic Surgery For Body Enhancement

The main advantages of using surgery for body enhancement include significant and long-lasting physical changes, profound psychological benefits such as increased self-confidence, and, in some cases, improved physical health and function. Targeted Body Contouring Surgery can eliminate stubborn fat deposits in specific areas (e.g., abdomen, thighs, arms), helping to create a more proportioned and defined physique.

Alternative surgical intervention also helps in the motivation for a Healthier Lifestyle. The visual results of surgery often act as a powerful catalyst, motivating individuals to maintain healthy eating habits and regular fitness routines to preserve their new look.

Besides, plastic surgery offers Customizable Options. Modern plastic surgery offers a wide array of procedures and techniques that can be tailored to meet a person's unique aesthetic goals and physical health requirements.

Disadvantages Of Using Plastic Surgery For Body Enhancement

Using plastic surgery for body enhancement comes with some physical, psychological, and financial risks. While often considered safe when performed by qualified professionals, most cosmetic procedures are elective surgeries that can result in complications such as infection, permanent scarring and  nerve damage among others. 

Common risks include excessive bleeding, hematomas (painful pockets of blood), and seromas (fluid accumulation under the skin). There is also the risk of Infection. As with any incision, there is a risk of infection, ranging from mild skin issues to severe, life-threatening conditions like necrotizing fasciitis.

Nerve Damage may also occur. Procedures can cause temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the treated area.

Despite efforts to hide incisions, all surgeries result in scars, which may become hypertrophic (raised) or keloids in some patients. Procedures like abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) also carry risks of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), where blood clots form in the legs and can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.

Procedural Specific Dangers may also arise in the course of cosmetic body enhancement. Surgeries such as Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL) can lead to fat embolism syndrome if fat is injected into major blood vessels.

There have also been reports of implant Complications arising from such surgical interventions. Procedures involving implants (e.g., breast enhancement) carry risks of rupture, leakage, capsular contracture, or rejection by the body.

Conclusion

The decision of which to use between herbal medication or plastic surgery for body enhancement is a personal choice. It often involves balancing the desire for results against safety, efficacy, and risk tolerance. While herbal solutions are natural and safer, they often lack rigorous scientific evidence, whereas surgery offers dramatic, immediate results but carries higher, immediate risks. 

Except when administered by a genuine herbal practitioner, some herbal medications can cause severe adverse effects or toxic reactions if misused. There is also the issue of false claims by some manufacturers of herbal products with respect to body enhancement, which  are primarily based on traditional use rather than scientific evidence, often making them ineffective.

Actionable Advice: If considering herbs, consult a trained, licensed herbalist or naturopathic doctor, and always inform your GP.

Alternative plastic surgery, on the other hand, offers immediate and Visible Results. Surgery provides faster, more accurate, and more dramatic changes to body shape. However, it is an intervention that has higher Risks compared to herbal intervention. These risks include anesthesia complications, blood clots, infection, scarring, asymmetry, and, in rare cases, pulmonary embolism.

Surgical options also require significant downtime for healing, often lasting several weeks. In terms of cost, herbal intervention is far more affordable than surgery. Surgery involves higher upfront costs, including facility and surgeon fees.

Actionable Advice: Choose a board-certified, experienced surgeon. Ensure your expectations are realistic, as surgery is not a weight-loss solution, but a contouring tool. 

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Confronting The Scourge Of Herpes Using Herbal Interventions

Herpes is a common, long lasting infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), characterized by painful, recurring blisters or ulcers on the mouth (oral) or genitals. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) results in an infection that can cause oral or genital herpes.

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is the virus that typically causes oral herpes. You can get it through contact with the sores and saliva. In some cases, oral sex can spread oral herpes to the genitals.

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is the virus that typically causes genital herpes. It can be contracted through sexual contact, even when sores are not present.

Both types of herpes are common. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 4 billion people have either HSV-1 (3.7 billion) or HSV-2 (400 million).

For people with a herpes lesion outbreak, symptoms can be uncomfortable. Herpes simplex virus remains in your body long term, though often in a dormant state without symptoms.

The Prevalence Of Herpes In Africa  

Herpes Simplex Virus is highly prevalent in Africa, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, with some studies showing it is as high as 80-90% in certain populations. Women are disproportionately affected, with prevalence ranging from 30–80%, compared to 10–50% in men, driven by high rates

of transmission and a strong link to HIV.

The disease is prevalent in Africa due to early childhood exposure to HSV-1 (oral) and high, sustained transmission rates of HSV-2 (genital), often linked to high-risk factors and lack of access to widespread antiviral treatment. HSV-1 is nearly universal, with over 90% of people acquiring it before age 15. High genital herpes rates, particularly in Southern/Eastern Africa, are driven by co-infection with other STIs and limited testing/prevention infrastructure.

Orthodox Drugs Cannot Cure Herpes

Orthodox (conventional) antiviral drugs cannot cure herpes because the herpes simplex virus (HSV) has the unique ability to hide in nerve cells in a dormant (latent) state, where orthodox medications cannot reach or eliminate it. 

After initial infection, the HSV travels along nerve pathways and settles in clusters of nerve cells called ganglia (specifically the sensory ganglia, like the trigeminal ganglia for oral herpes and the dorsal root ganglia for genital herpes).

In these nerve cells, the virus enters a latent phase where it remains inactive for long periods. During this phase, it does not replicate, making it impervious to antiviral medications. The virus also uses complex mechanisms to trick and evade the host's immune system while in this dormant state.

Why Herbs May Help In The Treatment Of Herpes

Herbs may help in the treatment of herpes because their various active components, such as phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and essential oils, can act through multiple mechanisms to fight the virus and support the body's immune response, unlike conventional single-mechanism antiviral drugs. 

Many plant extracts have virucidal effects, meaning they can directly inactivate the virus particles outside of host cells. Herbal compounds can interfere with different stages of the viral life cycle, such as preventing the virus from attaching to and penetrating host cells, inhibiting viral DNA synthesis, or suppressing the expression of viral genes and proteins necessary for replication.

Because herbs contain multiple active ingredients acting in various ways, it is more difficult for the herpes virus to develop resistance to these treatments compared to single-compound pharmaceutical drugs like acyclovir, where resistance has been observed, particularly in immunocompromised patients.

Certain herbs and their components (e.g., echinacea, astragalus, specific polysaccharides) can help modulate and strengthen the body's immune system, improving its ability to manage the infection and reduce the frequency or severity of outbreaks.

Some Herbs That May Help In The Treatment Of Herpes

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): One of the most studied herbs for herpes, topical application of lemon balm cream or extract has been shown to help reduce redness, swelling, and pain, as well as speed up the healing time of cold sores.

Propolis: This resin-like material produced by bees has antiviral and wound-healing properties. Propolis ointments or lip balms may significantly shorten the time to lesion healing compared to conventional acyclovir cream.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): The active ingredient in licorice root, glycyrrhizin, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects against HSV in laboratory settings and may be a promising treatment for outbreaks.

Olive Leaf Extract (Olea europaea L.): Topical olive leaf extract cream has shown a more rapid improvement in symptoms and shorter healing time compared with acyclovir in one study.

Sage (Salvia officinalis) and Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum): A combined cream formulation of sage and rhubarb extracts was found to be as effective as acyclovir cream in one clinical trial for healing time.

Echinacea: Known for its immune-boosting potential, certain extracts of echinacea may be an effective antiviral against both strains of herpes simplex and may soothe existing flare-ups.

Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia): In older lab studies, diluted tea tree oil showed promise in preventing recurrent outbreaks. It must be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the skin to avoid irritation.

  

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Gambia And Rising Cases Of Diabetes

    

Diabetes is a fast growing public health concern in The Gambia, with higher rates observed in women (7.0%–9.4%), urban residents, and those with higher BMI. 

As The Gambia continues to strengthen its public health system, diabetes has been emerging as a growing concern for healthcare providers and families alike. The disease, once less prominent in national discussions, is now claiming more attention due to its steady rise across both urban and rural communities.

“Diabetes is a group of metabolic disorder that is characterized by high blood sugar,” explained Sainabou Barra Cham, Program Officer at the Non-Communicable Diseases Control Unit under the Ministry of Health. “What happened is that there is an organ in the body called the pancreas, this pancreas produces a hormone called the insulin and when the pancreas is not producing enough of insulin or is not producing insulin at all, it results in diabetes.”

She said testing for diabetes is a simple process. “To test diabetes is very simple as it is done by extracting blood and testing it to know whether someone has diabetes,” she said, adding that there are three main types: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.

“Type one diabetes is mostly seen in young people and in this case the affected individual’s pancreas does not produce insulin at all. The type two diabetes mostly affects adults and in this case the pancreas produce insulin but very minimal. There is also what we called gestational diabetes, this type of diabetes mostly affects women during pregnancy but ones they are delivered, it disappears,” she explained.

In recent years, diabetes has become more visible in the country’s public health landscape. According to the International Diabetes Federation, an estimated 5.5 percent of adults in The Gambia were living with diabetes in 2024—approximately 54,000 people. The World Bank puts the figure at 1.9 percent among adults aged 20 to 79. Experts link the increase to a variety of factors, including aging, obesity—especially among women—and changes in lifestyle.

“Diabetes is primarily caused by the body’s inability to produce enough insulin or effectively use the insulin it produces,” Cham said. “This results in high blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its insulin-producing cells. Type 2 diabetes, the most common form, is often linked to lifestyle factors like obesity, physical inactivity, and genetics.”

Cham addressed some common misconceptions. “While it’s a common misconception, eating too much refined sugar doesn’t directly cause diabetes, though it can contribute to weight gain, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition unrelated to diet, while type 2 diabetes develops due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, including weight and diet,” she said.

She encouraged simple, consistent lifestyle changes to reduce risk. “Excess weight, especially around the waist, can increase insulin resistance, a key factor in type 2 diabetes. Losing even a small amount of weight (e.g., 5-7%) can significantly improve your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This could include brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or other activities you enjoy. Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively and can help with weight management. Smoking increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and other health problems. Quitting smoking is crucial for overall health and can improve your body’s ability to manage blood sugar,” she said.

Alongside conventional health advice, some Gambians continue to seek out traditional methods of treatment. Omar Sambou, a herbalist based in Serrekunda Market, shares his own experiences.

“I have attended to many people and they told me that they were diabetic but after taking my herbs they were cured. It may not be in all cases but in many cases the individuals get cured,” he said.

He believes in the power of traditional remedies. “Conventional medicines are from herbs so it is very rhetorical for someone to say herbs don’t cure diabetes,” Sambou said. “Diabetes is curable.”

Others, like Sally Hydara, a 70-year-old woman from Manjai Kunda, holds a different view. She believes age plays a significant role in the development of the condition.

“When I was young I was told that diabetes is caused by consuming too much sugar. I know people who consumed a lot of sugar but they are still ok but here I am diabetic,” she said.

Despite her interest in herbal medicine, she takes a more measured approach. “I drink both herbs and convention medicines, I am a leaving witness. I can confirmed to you that diabetes is manageable is not an instant killer diseases but is incurable,” she said. “Diabetes is incurable instead it can be managed or controlled if you continue to take your medication as prescribed.”

Medical studies support the importance of early management. Research shows that those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at a younger age are more likely to experience complications later in life, though with proper care, many can live full and healthy lives.

The consequences of unmanaged diabetes can be serious. In some cases, it can lead to nerve and blood vessel damage, particularly in the feet and legs, which increases the risk of slow-healing wounds and infections. If complications progress, amputation may become necessary to protect the patient’s overall health.

A study conducted in 2022 revealed that many Gambians have limited knowledge about diabetes and its symptoms. This has prompted health experts to call for more community education and outreach. On World Diabetes Day, local campaigns emphasized the importance of healthy eating, exercise, and the use of local foods to manage and prevent the disease.

Simple changes such as eating smaller portions, choosing foods with less fat, drinking water instead of sweetened beverages, and avoiding shopping for food while hungry can all contribute to better health outcomes.

  

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Symptoms Of Heart Attack And Heartburn: What's The Difference?

Because of the similarities they share, people are often confused as to whether what they are going through is a heart attack or a mere case of heartburn. Suddenly, there is a gripping and painful sensation on the chest region and it feels like one would collapse at any moment. The experience comes with a certain amount of panic for those suffering from high blood pressure and heart disease, which are the major causes of heart attack. But before we look deeper into the similarities and differences between the symptoms of heart disease and heartburn, let’s take a little peep into the prevalence of high blood pressure and heart disease in Africa.

The Prevalence Of High Blood Pressure In Africa

High blood pressure (hypertension) and cardiovascular disease are major, rapidly growing health crises in Africa, with the continent experiencing the world's

highest prevalence of hypertension at roughly 46% of adults aged 25+. Cardiovascular diseases are the second leading cause of death, with over 1.6 million

deaths annually. Estimates generally range between 20–46% of the adult population, with some studies showing up to 50% in certain populations (e.g., South Africa). Urban areas report higher prevalence (approximately . 32.9%) compared to rural areas (26.3%), largely driven by lifestyle changes. Roughly 48% of women and 34% of men in Africa are affected by hypertension, with the disease shifting to younger populations in recent times.

What Is Heart Attack?

A heart attack (myocardial infarction) is a life-threatening medical emergency occurring when blood flow—carrying essential oxygen—is suddenly blocked to a part of the heart muscle, usually by a clot in a narrowed coronary artery. Without immediate treatment to restore flow, this causes the muscle tissue to begin to die. Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort (squeezing, pressure), shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, and pain in the arm, neck, or jaw. 

Heart attacks are primarily caused by high blood pressure or heart disease. Heart disease describes a variety of issues that can affect your heart. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type. CAD, also known as coronary heart disease, can make your arteries narrow and lead to a heart attack. Heart disease can also affect your heart muscle, valves or electrical system. The symptoms you have and the treatments you get depend on the type of heart disease you have.

When your heart isn’t working well, it has trouble sending enough blood, oxygen and nutrients to your body. In a way, your heart delivers the fuel that keeps your body running. If your heart can’t deliver that fuel, it affects everything your body’s systems do.

Lifestyle changes and consumption of natural foods like nuts, fruits and vegetables can keep your heart healthy and lower your chances of getting heart disease.

What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is a painful, burning sensation in the chest behind the breastbone, often accompanied by a bitter taste in the throat, caused by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus (acid reflux). It is typically triggered by eating, lying down, or bending over. While common, frequent, or severe symptoms may indicate a more serious condition like GERD. 

There is usually a burning pain on the chest (often after eating or at night), a sour or acidic taste, and sometimes difficulty swallowing or a hoarse voice.

Heartburn is often caused by a weakened lower esophageal sphincter allowing acid to rise

. Common triggers include eating large meals, fatty/fried foods, caffeine, chocolate, citrus, tomato sauce, mint, alcohol, and smoking

Similarities And Differences Between Heart Disease And Heartburn

Heartburn and heart disease (including heart attacks) both cause chest discomfort, making them difficult to distinguish. Heartburn feels like a burning sensation behind the breastbone, often after eating or lying down. Heart disease/attack, however, typically feels like pressure, squeezing, tightness, or pain that may spread to the arms, neck, or jaw. 

The similarities between these two health conditions include: both can cause pain in the chest area; both are often felt behind the breastbone even though heartburn sometimes is felt more in the middle of the chest than on the breastbones; both can be accompanied by nausea or dizziness. 

The differences are as follow: heartburn is a sharp, burning sensation while  heart attack is pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness; heartburn often occurs after eating, or when lying down/bending over while  heart attack pain often occurs during physical exertion or stress; heartburn may cause a sour or bitter taste in the mouth while  heart attack may cause shortness of breath, cold sweats, or pain radiating to the jaw, neck, back, or left arm.

  

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Zimbabwean Children Facing Silent Health Crisis From The Consumption Of Instant Noodles And Zapnax Snacks

Article By Michael Gwarisa

While they may be convenient and easy to prepare for your little ones, flavoured snacks, foods and beverages contain high sugar, salt and or unhealthy fats that can increase the risk of becoming overweight or obese, and of related chronic diseases later in life.

Data from the 2024 Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee (ZimLAC) show that Zimbabwe recorded obesity levels of 5.2% in Infants and Young Children (IYC) owing to consumption of unhealthy foods.

 According to the study, unhealthy snack food and beverage consumption in Zimbabwe has been associated with a higher risk of nutrient inadequacy, and lower length-for-age among one-year-olds. Food preferences that begin early in life track into later childhood and adolescence and such practices, if continued throughout adolescence and adulthood, can increase the risk of becoming overweight or obese, and of related chronic diseases later in life.

Speaking in an interview with HealthTimes of Zimbabwe , Chj Chikanda, a Nutritionist with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) said though it is trendy to feed children flavoured foods, it was unhealthy.

“No, these foods are not safe. Though very convenient and time saving, they pose significant health risks. Some of the food colouring and flavouring have been associated with hyperactivity in children. Some have been found to trigger allergies and worsening of asthma. Some lead to stomach irritation and cramps,” said Chikanda.

She added that there is increased risk of chronic diseases like hypertension, type-2 diabetes and cancer when these flavoured foods are frequently consumed over a long period of time.

“These are responsible for about 74% of global deaths and disability, not to mention increased healthcare costs and reduced quality of life. In addition, when mostly consumed without proper meals, these foods can also result in gastric problems including peptic ulcers (sores that develop in the lining of stomach or upper part of small intestine). If sub-optimally treated these can result in internal bleeding as slow blood loss resulting in anaemia, or as severe blood loss that requires blood transfusion and hospitalization.”

In Zimbabwe, a wide variety of artificially flavoured foods being consumed. These include relish or gravy mixes added to sauces usually labelled beef or chicken flavoured. Instant or two-minute noodles, flavoured snacks/chips, candy, sugar sweetened beverages including soft drinks, flavoured milks and cordials have become preferred quick fix solutions to hunger or cravings. Some processed meats such as sausages and hot dogs being sold at formal and informal food outlets with chips/French fries are not healthy.

“Let me try to simplify as much as possible. So some of these flavours, let me give an example of beef meat flavoured corn snacks. Whilst chewing and savoring the yummy beefy taste, signals are sent to the stomach that one has consumed meat, resulting in gastric acids being secreted to digest the meat. But alas!! It’s not meat but a lightweight snack yet acid will still be released, what happens now? The acids with nothing else to digest will pass away time by going for your stomach linings “the collateral damage,” said Chikanda.

The 2025 Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee (ZimLAC) survey highlights the urgency of tackling unhealthy diets among children. Although Zimbabwe has set targets to reduce childhood overweight, the survey warns that  dietary shifts toward ultra processed foods threaten these gains. ZimLAC categorises overweight prevalence as very low when it is below 2.5 percent, low between 2.5 and below 5 percent, medium between 5 and below 10 percent

, high between 10 and below 15 percent, and very high at 15 percent or above. Public health analysts say sustained consumption of high salt, high fat and low nutrient snacks could push more communities into the higher risk categories.

“In my experience, pre-school and younger school aged children enjoy consuming flavoured snacks, sherbet, and candy that paint the tongue and mouth (Peer pressure greatly involved). If you want to see what I am talking about give a 4 year old a dollar pocket money and observe what they will buy (they will most likely consume it where their counterparts are playing.)

However, in Zimbabwe it seems consuming flavoured foods and snacks is not only an infant problem as other older groups also prefer the foods owing to their convenience.

School going children (day-scholars) have these food packed in their lunch boxes by caregivers and when they get pocket money they almost always purchase these snacks from vendors or tuck-shops within their school vicinities. On the other hand, boarders carry cartons of these snacks to school as tuck. University students renting outside campus residence also largely consume these snacks to avoid cooking, whilst their campus residing counterparts snack on the same in between meals. Some grown-ups staying alone also consume some of these foods for convenience purposes.

Culled from HealthTimes  HealthTimes  

 

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Protecting Tanzanians From The Adverse Health Effects Of Using Charcoal As Cooking Fuel

The Use Of Charcoal As Cooking Fuel In Tanzania

The use of charcoal as a cooking fuel is extremely widespread and deeply entrenched in Tanzania, particularly in urban areas. Approximately 90% of all Tanzanian households rely on solid biomass (firewood and charcoal) for their daily cooking needs. While firewood is dominant in rural areas, charcoal is the primary energy source for urban households, with usage rates in cities like Dar es Salaam exceeding 60% as a main fuel, and approaching 90% when including those who use it as part of a fuel mix. 

Charcoal is the mainstay of energy for urban households because it is more affordable and easier to transport and store than other fuels, despite government efforts to promote LPG.

The Adverse Health Effects Of Cooking With Charcoal

Cooking with charcoal has significant adverse health effects, primarily due to the emission of harmful pollutants and the formation of carcinogens in food

cooked at high temperatures. The risks are particularly high when cooking in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces.

According to the WHO, the deaths of millions of people around the world every year are caused by air pollution and of that number, more than 60% corresponds to pollution in residential environments. This means that at least 4.3 million people die from burning solid fuels with inefficient ventilation and this is the main source of indoor pollution across the globe.

Most of these deaths occur due to heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer precipitated by long-term use of these dirty fuels. Also, a significant number of acute respiratory diseases also occur in children who are exposed to such environments.

An NGO’s Passionate Appeal To Tanzanians Using Charcoal As Cooking Fuel

It was at the backdrop of these grim realities that a foundation recently urged Tanzanians to abandon cooking with charcoal and firewood and adopt clean, alternative energy sources to safeguard their health and protect the environment from rapid climate change impacts.

The call was made in Mpwapwa District by the Executive Director of the Foundation for Disabilities Hope (FDH), Mr Maiko Salali, during an awareness campaign on Rafiki Briquettes, an ecofriendly charcoal alternative produced by the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO).

Mr Salali noted that the continued reliance on traditional cooking fuels such as firewood and charcoal is among the leading causes of environmental degradation, particularly rampant deforestation.

“The use of dirty energy, especially charcoal and firewood, brings serious health, social, economic, and environmental challenges. We are encouraging communities to embrace alternative charcoal solutions like Rafiki Briquettes to conserve the environment and safeguard people’s health,” he said.

He added that Tanzania, together with the global community, has set ambitious strategies to curb the use of polluting cooking fuels in order to protect current and future generations.

Explaining further, Mr Salali said the alternative charcoal not only safeguards the environment and human health but also offers economic opportunities, allowing people to engage in distribution and sales.

“As an organisation supporting persons with disabilities, we have been granted dealership rights by STAMICO to distribute this product. This initiative economically empowers people with disabilities and reduces dependency,” he said.

He further highlighted that ecofriendly charcoal is particularly beneficial for persons with albinism, as deforestation increases exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays, which can cause skin cancer.

The widespread deforestation is accelerating climate change and threatening the country’s ecological balance.

Mr Salali emphasised that adopting clean cooking solutions like Rafiki Briquettes is key to protecting forests, improving public health, and promoting sustainable development.

  

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Zambian Government Braces Up For An Imminent Outbreak Of Polio

African countries have continued to battle the scourge of polio. Zambia has now come to the spotlight as the country is currently responding to a declared poliovirus outbreak following the detection of the virus in wastewater in Lusaka in February 2026, despite

being declared free of indigenous wild poliovirus in 2005. While no clinical cases of paralysis have been reported in this recent outbreak, the detection

confirms virus shedding within communities.

Protecting Children Under Five Years

The country confirmed the detection of poliovirus in environmental samples collected in Zambia, specifically in the capital city, Lusaka. Although no confirmed cases of paralytic polio have been reported, the presence of the virus in wastewater signals possible silent transmission within communities, particularly among unvaccinated children. Polio is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects children under five years of age. It spreads through contaminated water, poor sanitation, and close person-to-person contact. In severe cases, it can cause irreversible paralysis and even death. While Zambia had previously achieved polio-free status, this recent detection highlights how easily the virus can re-emerge if population immunity declines.Globally, the fight against polio has been led by initiatives supported by the World Health Organization and international partners, resulting in dramatic reductions in cases over the past decades. However, outbreaks continue to occur in areas where immunization coverage is incomplete, reinforcing the need for sustained vaccination efforts and strong surveillance systems. In response, Zambian health authorities have activated emergency response measures, including intensified surveillance and targeted immunization campaigns aimed at protecting all eligible children. These efforts are critical to preventing further spread and safeguarding public health. The recent outbreak serves as an important reminder: polio eradication requires constant vigilance, community participation, and full vaccination coverage. Protecting every child through immunization remains the most effective way to stop the virus and keep Zambia polio-free.

Zambian Government And Response To The New Threat

Acting Minister of Health Cornelius Mweetwa said the virus was detected through the country's environmental surveillance system, noting that no confirmed clinical cases of polio-related paralysis have been reported.

"The detection through the environmental wastewater surveillance system confirms that the virus is being shed in our communities," he said in a ministerial statement delivered in the parliament.

Mweetwa said that circulating poliovirus has also been detected in some neighboring countries, pointing to a broader regional outbreak.

He said the government has established a national poliovirus response management system to coordinate containment efforts. A risk assessment and detailed field investigations are currently underway to determine the extent of possible community transmission.

The government will work with the World Health Organization to conduct vaccination campaigns targeting all children under the age of five in identified high-risk areas, he added.

While Zambia last recorded an indigenous wild poliovirus case in 1995, Mweetwa said the country has since periodically detected cases of circulating poliovirus, with the most recent case reported in December 2023.

  

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Fibrox: The Effective Herbal Cure For Fibroid

Before we take a look at what has made Fibrox the most effective treatment for Fibroid in Africa, it is note-worthy to consider briefly what Fibroid itself really is.

What Is Fibroid?

The word "Fibroid" sounds like a death knell in the ears of most women. But this should not be so. Every woman has Fibroid because it is a natural growth on the walls of the uterus. However, it is when this growth becomes abnormal that Fibroid becomes an issue, and in some cases, can become a very big issue if the right steps are not taken to correct it.

Orthodox medicine does not have any remedy for Fibroid other than surgery. However, this is a very risky approach because in most cases, surgery scars the uterus, making normal ovarian functions like normal menstruation, ovulation and conception difficult if not impossible.

Surgery And Its Complications

Surgery brings a whole lot of complications that end up damaging the womb. Some women have had their womb completely removed because of complications due to Fibroid surgery.

Why Fibrox Has Been Recording Success Testimonials In The Fight Against Fibroid

It then becomes obvious that the actual cure for Fibroid lies in natural, herbal therapy. And this is where Fibrox comes to play a vital roll.

Ever since its formulation, Fibrox has been recording success after success in the management, treatment and cure of Fibroid cases and several testimonies have been pouring in from across Africa. (You can read two of these amazing testimonies here).

So, what is Fibrox? Fibrox is a 100% natural medicine, made from Nigerian local herbs, packaged by a Nigerian company based in Lagos, and most important of all, recognised, approved and registered by NAFDAC ( National Agency for Food  and Drug Administration and Control), the agency vested with the power and authority to regulate food and drugs in Nigeria.

Fibrox is a powerful natural anti-fibroid formula. It is a potent and high quality formulation for female health and wellness and for hormone balancing. It is a nice product for reduction and control of Fibroid and abnormal swellings in the uterus.

Who Needs Fibroid?

Fibrox is good supplement for women with heavily menses, internal swelling, frequent miscarriages, abnormal growth.

Fibrox works naturally by helping the body to prevent the growth of abnormal swellings in the uterus, by reducing the swelling or assisting the body to dissolve the Fibroid, through the powerful natural ingredients which activates and boost the internal cleaning system in the womb. It shrinks the size of fibroids back to the uterine level, where conception and implantation of fetus is assured.  

Fibrox works by reducing swellings, inflammation, congestion and is also a restorative for good health.

 

So, do you have fibroid or is someone close you suffering from it? has the doctor told you that you cannot conceive unless you undergo surgery? you don't need to worry. With Fibrox, your fibroid can be cured within a space of 2 - 3 months.

To get the results proven NAFDAC approved herbal medicines for fibroid, contact +2347031040178 (WhatsApp only) 

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Ugandan Natural Health Firm Calls For Stronger Government Regulation And Standardization Of Sector

A Ugandan natural health product supplier is rewarding its most dedicated customers with an all-expenses-paid trip to Dubai while simultaneously urging significant reforms within the country’s herbal and natural remedy market. BeNatural Uganda announced that the new campaign will select a winner through public voting on social media based on customer testimonials.

Founder Angela Aguda Kobusingye explained the initiative was born from recognizing that the company’s growth over the past seven years has been built largely on customer referrals and trust, rather than traditional advertising. She stated the Dubai trip is a gesture of appreciation to the community that has supported the business since its inception.

Alongside the celebration, Kobusingye issued a strong call for greater regulation and standardization in Uganda’s burgeoning natural health sector. She highlighted critical challenges, including the adulteration of traditional herbs with modern pharmaceuticals and a lack of laws ensuring fair competition. These gaps, she argued, undermine consumer trust, product efficacy, and leave the public vulnerable to misleading information.

To address these issues, Kobusingye urged the government to implement comprehensive policies, stringent quality controls, and improved supply chain infrastructure. She also emphasized the need for consumer education to promote the safe use of natural remedies and combat misinformation.

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a pivotal moment for BeNatural, as heightened health consciousness and overwhelmed hospitals led many Ugandans to seek out natural alternatives. Kobusingye also noted the impact of the digital age, where increasingly informed customers often arrive with specific product requests based on their own research.

Uganda’s natural health market is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising interest in plant-based and preventive healthcare. The sector now includes a wide range of products from herbal teas to skincare formulations. BeNatural, founded seven years ago, specializes in organic, locally-sourced remedies.

  

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Japan Boosts Food And Nutrition For Rwandan Refugees With Over USD 666,000

The World Food Programme (WFP) has received a contribution of over USD 666,000 (approximately Rwf 920 million) from the government of Japan to provide lifesaving food and nutrition assistance to refugees, asylum seekers and returnees in Rwanda.

The funding was announced at a ceremony in Kigali attended by Japan’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Kazuya Nakajo; Ngoga Aristarque, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA); and Andrea Bagnoli, WFP’s Representative and Country Director in Rwanda.

“We are deeply grateful to the Government and people of Japan for their generous contribution. This support will help WFP in collaboration with the Government to deliver lifesaving assistance to refugees, asylum seekers, and returnees, ensuring that the most vulnerable people can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope,” said Bagnoli.

A statement from WFP noted that the contribution will enable the organisation to provide food and nutrition assistance to more than 21,000 refugees, asylum seekers, and returnees. This includes supplementary nutrition for over 10,000 vulnerable people, including infants and young children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those living with HIV or tuberculosis to manage and prevent malnutrition.

WFP supports about 130,000 refugees and asylum seekers, mainly from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi, with in-kind food and cash assistance.

“Renewed fighting in eastern DRC in December forced more than 1,000 asylum seekers to seek safety in Rwanda. WFP responded by providing 6,000 hot meals for the new arrivals and specialised nutritious foods for prevention of malnutrition following nutrition screening. Although many of them have returned home, the situation in DRC remains unpredictable and volatile. Japan’s contribution will help WFP respond swiftly and effectively to evolving needs,” the statement read.

The government of Japan has been a major contributor to WFP, providing over USD 9 million (approximately RWF 13,122,000,000) for humanitarian operations in Rwanda since 2020.

Ambassador Nakajo said that at a time when the humanitarian sector is facing challenges, Japan remains firmly committed to the philosophy of human security to ensure that individuals can live with dignity, free from fear and want.

The government of Japan has been a major contributor to WFP, providing over USD 9 million (approximately RWF 13,122,000,000) for humanitarian operations in Rwanda since 2020.

  

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