Dr Believe Herbal Cure: Bringing Joy And Restoration To Families And Homes

In the traditional African herbal healing industry, the name Dr Believe Herbal Cure stands out from the crowd. This is due to the number of testimonies after testimonies that have been pouring in from those who have gone to him in search of herbal solutions for their health issues. Dr Believe has saved many homes and families from falling apart with the use of herbal medications. His expertise is not only in the cure of some stubborn ailments, his products have also proven to be effective in the area of body enhancements, such as breasts and buttocks enlargement as well as penile enlargement for those who have very small penis. Dr Believe handles all these with natural herbal intervention.

The case of herpes is a noteworthy one. Most orthodox drugs have always failed to treat herpes, and the widely circulated views is that herpes can never be cured but can only be managed. But, at Dr Believe Herbal Cure, that statement has been proven to be false as people who have herpes come to him and he cures them completely from the disease with the use of herbal medications.  

Testifying about this, one of the women who got cured of female genital herpes, has this to say about Dr Believe: “I never believed I could be cured of this stubborn disease called herpes. It has given me sleepless nights because I cannot have a stable relationship. As soon as my partners get to know that I have herpes in my vagina, they run away. I have gone from one hospital to another all to no avail. I was told by doctors that herpes cannot be cured but can only be managed with drugs. Imagine how devastated I was to learn that I would spend the rest of my life with herpes. But someone recommended Dr Believe to me. This lady said it was Dr Believe that cured her of her herpes. At first, I did not believe her. But then, because I had lost hope with orthodox drugs, I decided to give Dr Believe a try. I contacted him and he sent the herbal medication. Within a short period of using his medication, I was completely cured from the disease. Indeed, herbal medicine is very potent in curing those diseases that doctors say are incurable.”

Another area that Dr Believe has distinguished himself is in the area of body enhancements using herbal products. Body enhancements such as breasts and buttocks enlargement has become popular these days as women desire to have the perfect shape and curves that will make them sexually appealing. However, some of these ladies have made the wrong choice of going for plastic surgery which has inflicted harm on their body. Plastic surgery has led to complications that have resulted in damage to the body, and in some cases have even lead to the death of the patient. But with herbal medication from Dr Believe, all these complications are removed. This is because herbal products are organic by nature and so are easily absorbed into the body systems. Thus, while the breasts or buttocks are being enlarged, they do so organically through the natural body enhancement.

Breasts and buttocks that are enlarged through surgery also suffer from loss of elasticity and sensitivity. One lady explains it this way: “If you use surgery to enlarge your breasts, they lose their tenderness and sensitivity and even when a man is fondling you on your breasts, you don’t feel anything. But if it is done through herbal products, you will feel the stimulation because they are still as natural as when they were smaller. I had my breasts enlargement done with herbal medication from Dr Believe and you can see the shape and new look it has given me.

But the use of herbal medication for body enhancement does not end with breasts and buttocks enlargement at Dr Believe’s herbal home. Men who have small penis have also been coming to him to have their penis increased in size. These are men who are suffering from inferiority complex and who have been having issues with their partners due to their small penis. Every woman’s desire is to be sexually satisfied by their partner, and when such satisfaction is not forth coming, it leads to issues that can even break the relationship. Some women have even resorted to sleeping with other men outside of their matrimonial home just to get sexually satisfied because their husband’s penis is too small to satisfy them. However, this problem always come to an end with a visit to Dr Believe Herbal Cure. Men who come to him for help have always gone back happy and satisfied as they see their penis enlarged to the normal size. Even though it is a sensitive issue and some men who have been cured have chosen not to comment about it openly, others are so happy that they are telling anyone who has such issues to go to Dr Believe and get their penis increased.

“I am advising anyone who has issues of small penis to go and see Dr Believe,” one of them said. “I was having problem with my wife because of my small penis until someone introduced me to Dr Believe and today, the story has changed. My wife now enjoys having sex with me unlike before when I was always miserable when it was time to have sex. She has started to give me a new respect and treat me like a real man.”

Dr Believe has also proven efficient in the treatment of diabetes, gonorrhea and a host of other diseases. He has also helped couples who are having issues and whose marriage is on the brink of collapse, to rekindle their love and make the bond between husband and wife stronger.

When Natural Health Africa reached out to him to comment on why many patients are coming to him for herbal cure, Dr Believe said, “It’s because when they come, they see the result. Here we don’t tell stories; we cure sicknesses and diseases using herbal medications. People who come to us, get cured, they tell others and these ones too come and get their cure. The news spreads. That’s why you see the number of people that daily reach out to us.” 

Contact Dr Believe: +2348105257464 (WhatsApp only)

Email: drbelieve921@gmail.com

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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 Intervention

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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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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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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South African Sanitary Pads And Pantyliners Contain Hormone-disrupting Chemicals - New Study

A new research from the University of the Free State (UFS) has revealed  that menstrual products used by millions of South Africans contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, even when marketed as “free from harmful chemicals”.

The study, published in Science of the Total Environment, found that every sanitary pad and pantyliner tested contained at least two endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), raising serious questions about consumer safety, chemical disclosure and long-term health risks.

Researchers analysed 16 brands of sanitary pads and eight types of pantyliners sold at popular South African retailers, spanning a range of prices and including products marketed as “organic”, “plant-based” or “free from harmful chemicals”. The findings showed widespread contamination across all the tested products. 

The authors screened for three major classes of EDCs — phthalates, bisphenols (including bisphenol A, or BPA) and parabens. Every pad and liner contained at least two of the target chemicals. 

“EDCs, such as phthalates, bisphenols and parabens, are widely used in consumer products and have been associated with reproductive toxicity, hormonal imbalance and cancer,” the study noted.

“Menstrual products represent a potential but under-recognised source of exposure. In South Africa, several brands advertise as being free from harmful chemicals, yet limited research has verified these as potential EDC sources.”

The study highlighted a concerning reality regarding the safety of menstrual products, head of the university’s department of chemistry Deon Visser said. “Many sanitary pads and liners contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, even when they are marketed as being ‘free from harmful chemicals’.”

Bisphenols were detected in 100% of sanitary pads and 75% of pantyliners, while parabens were found in more than 81% of pads and 75% of liners. Phthalates, commonly used as plasticisers, were present in all pantyliners tested and in half of sanitary pads.

The researchers emphasised that the chemicals were not necessarily added intentionally. Instead, they could migrate into products during manufacturing from plastics, adhesives, packaging materials and even contaminated water used in production.

“The heat-pressing process can cause these chemicals to move into the top layer that touches your skin,” Visser said.

While the amounts detected in individual products might appear small, the study warns that the real concern lies in cumulative exposure over time.

Menstrual products are worn directly against highly permeable genital and mucosal tissue, which absorbs chemicals more readily than the skin on other parts of the body. Most users rely on pads and liners for several days every month over decades.

The results reveal that menstrual products such as sanitary pads and liners in South Africa are a “significant but overlooked source of toxic exposure”. Although daily doses might seem low, the long-term, repeated contact with sensitive tissues poses cumulative health risks, including reproductive toxicity and cancer.

EDCs, such as phthalates, bisphenols and parabens, are known female endocrine disruptors because they can mimic or interfere with natural hormones in the body. BPA, in particular, has a chemical structure similar to oestrogen, allowing it to bind to oestrogen receptors. Because oestrogen drives the growth of some breast cancers, this raises concern about long-term risk.

Heightened phthalate exposures have also been linked to fertility issues among men and women, premature puberty onset, endometriosis and ovulation disorders. Cases of contact dermatitis, thyroid hormone disruption, elevated sex steroid hormone levels and the induction of reactive oxygen species in the body have been reported too. 

“These issues, its transplacental transfer ability, its bio-cumulative nature and the serious damage chronic poisoning can cause to the reproductive system and the liver have raised concerns about its safety, especially in PCPs … There is increasing evidence that dermal contact is a relevant route of exposure,” the study said.

Using standard exposure calculations, the researchers found that daily exposure to BPA from pads and liners exceeded the European Food Safety Authority’s tolerable daily intake by dozens of times. When higher absorption rates — more realistic for vulvar skin — were considered, exposure levels increased dramatically.

“Although individual daily doses may look low, the group and cumulative exposure becomes significant,” the authors note, particularly given that menstrual products are only one of many daily sources of EDC exposure, alongside food, cosmetics, dust and water.

The findings highlight gaps in the country’s regulatory framework. While the South African Bureau of Standards sets requirements for aspects such as absorbency, size and microbiological safety, there are no standards governing chemical content in menstrual products.

“Manufacturers are not required to disclose the full chemical composition of menstrual products,” Visser said. “We believe they should disclose all chemicals, even if levels fall below daily limits.”

Globally, only a handful of regulators provide guidance on chemicals permitted in sanitary products, including the Food and Drug Administration in the US and Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency. In South Africa, the only BPA-specific regulation applies to baby feeding bottles, not menstrual products.

The researchers warn that environmental contamination and weak regulation might continue to shape the chemical profiles of pads and liners sold locally. The study cautions that insufficient regulation and safety oversight of menstrual products compounds period poverty and increases the risk of harmful exposure among marginalised groups.

Disposable pads and liners are also mass-produced and widely discarded, where they can leach chemicals into soil and water systems, creating additional exposure pathways through food, drinking water and dust.

Unlike food or cosmetics, the chemical composition of menstrual products is rarely communicated to users, leaving little opportunity for informed choice.

While calling for stronger regulation, clearer labelling and routine monitoring of menstrual products, the researchers also offer practical advice. Visser recommends choosing products certified under the OEKO-TEX Standard 100, which restricts hazardous substances, or considering reusable menstrual products.

The research forms part of a broader UFS initiative on menstrual health and access. The interdisciplinary team is developing a reusable sanitary pad with antimicrobial properties.

“This study serves as a wake-up call,” Visser said. “Current regulations and ‘clean’ labels in South Africa may not be providing the protection consumers expect.”

The authors said further research was urgently needed to better understand long-term, low-dose exposure through menstrual products and to inform evidence-based policies that protect consumer health.

  

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Why Is The Population Of Mosquitoes Exploding In Nairobi, Kenya?

It’s now a fact that the population of mosquitoes in Nairobi, the iconic capital city of Kenya, is exploding at an alarming rate.

According to Hellen Shikanda, a health correspondent with the Daily Nation of Kenya, “You may have noticed more mosquitoes lately. They are not the shy type. They do not care about you trying to swat them. They perch on one part of your body, get hit and simply move to the next. Their bites leave you scratching for a long time. Their buzzing is irritating even during the day”.

Why The Upsurge?

But the big question is: what is behind the sudden rise in the mosquitoes population in Nairobi. Some analysts say it’s due to the rapid urbanization which the city has been going through in recent times, while others believe the Gates Foundation has biologically engineered the ugly development, a claim the foundation has vehemently refuted.

African cities have been witnessing rapid urbanisation, with urban populations growing at an average rate of 3.44% annually, according to the UN World Cities Report 2022. Nairobi is not an exception, experiencing exponential growth from 290,000 residents in 1960 to an estimated of 5 million in 2023. Over 60% of Nairobi’s population resides in informal settlements, a substantial increase from 33% four decades ago.

The challenges faced by Nairobi’s informal settlements are multifaceted. They include water, sanitation, and hygiene, environmental concerns, health and a host of others.

Many believe the reason there is an upsurge in the population of mosquitoes in Kenya, particularly in Nairobi, is due to a combination of unusually warm temperatures, erratic rainfall, and rapid, unplanned urbanization. These conditions accelerate breeding cycles and create ample stagnant water for larvae, with some species developing from egg to adult in just seven days. 

Climate Change & Heat are a big factor in this regard. Warmer temperatures shorten the mosquito life cycle and increase survival rates, enabling faster reproduction. Stagnant Water & poor Sanitation also play a major role in the rapid increase in the population of mosquitoes in Nairobi. Poor drainage systems, uncollected waste, and blocked sewer lines create, ideal breeding sites.

Again, as earlier mentioned, rapid development and building projects in the city often leave behind stagnant water in containers and foundations, creating, artificial breeding grounds.

Urbanization is not only about building constructions; it is also about population. Increased human density provides more opportunities for mosquitoes, particularly the Culex species, to breed in residential areas. 

Bill Gates And The Upsurge Of Mosquitoes In Nairobi

Amidst all this comes the allegation that Bill Gates is behind the sudden spike in mosquitoes in Kenya. The social media was recently awash with claims that he is funding a biological engineering of mosquitoes in the country for the purpose of research. The claims, led by politician Paul Muite on X, suggested genetically modified mosquitoes were being released to target malaria, but instead were biting children and the elderly. However, the Gates Foundation has come out to dispel these rumours.

In a statement, the foundation said it doesn't release mosquitoes, insisting it doesn’t run labs that do. It stressed that all their work in Kenya follows national laws and local oversight.

Their role, they say, is to support Kenyan-led health priorities, working alongside the government, researchers, and public health partners, not dictate policy or bypass local authorities.

While the social media posts sparked a lot of concern, malaria prevention in Kenya has remained firmly in the hands of the National Malaria Control Programme, which handles insecticidal nets and indoor spraying.

“The Gates Foundation does fund research into innovative tools, like the World Mosquito Program and Target Malaria, but all operations in Kenya are handled by local experts under strict regulation,” the statement read.

With malaria still a major public health challenge, the foundation says it’s crucial for people to separate fact from fiction, and keep the focus on effective, locally-led prevention efforts.

What Experts Have To Say Concerning The Upsurge

Dr Eric Ochomo, an entomologist at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kemri), says they have noticed an alarming increase in the population of mosquitoes in Nairobi. Kemri scientists run active surveillance on 60 sites across the country. Dr Ochomo explains that there are currently two kinds of mosquitoes spreading in Nairobi. These, he says, are the Aedes and the Culex. The Aedes mosquitoes appear mostly in the daytime ; they are bigger in size and are black and white and therefore easy to notice from a distance. Their bites are quite painful, and even after biting, they do not fly far away. “They are lazy mosquitoes and can be quite stubborn,” he says.

According to him, the Aedes breed very rapidly in open water tanks, old tyres, shallow containers and open sewers. The Culex mosquitoes, on the other hand, are loud and come out mostly at night. They are also easy to notice because of their large size.

Dr Ochomo also revealed that the Anopheles mosquitoes, which is the species that transmit malaria parasites, have not yet been recorded as one of those whose population is currently rising in Nairobi.

Nairobi Not A Malaria Prone Zone

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nairobi is generally classified as a low-risk or malaria-free zone, with a very low, stable incidence rate (<1% parasite prevalence) due to its high altitude,

though it remains a common diagnosis in local clinics, accounting for 11% of pediatric cases. While cases nationwide have risen (27% in 2025),, urban areas

like Nairobi do not experience the high-rate, rapid increases seen in rural Kenya.

But even with these subtle assurances, experts believe the sudden upsurge in the population of mosquitoes in the city is something to worry about. If the prevailing conditions in Nairobi encourage the spread of the Aedes and Culex, these same conditions can also trigger the rise of Anopheles, they argue.

Poor Sanitation As A Major Driver

Dr Ochomo says the main driver of mosquitoes increase in Nairobi is poor sanitation. “When you don’t drain water and it is warm, mosquitoes find a breeding ground. Mosquito matures from larva to adult within just seven days. Mosquitoes lay large numbers of eggs, up to 500 at a time. If the temperature is warm, the breeding is further accelerated. Imagine if all those eggs become adults; they will be everywhere,” he says.

He says counties need to grasp the situation and tackle the sanitation problem squarely because climate change is already happening. In Nairobi, a number of high-rise buildings are going up to meet the housing demands of people moving from rural areas to urban centres. On many construction sites, temporary soak pits are used and Dr Ochomo explains that as long as that water is there and is stagnant, it will be a very good breeding site for mosquitoes.

Conclusion

Experts say stopping the increase of mosquitoes in Nairobi requires a combination of community-level environmental management and individual protection measures, particularly because warmer temperatures and increased rains from climate change are accelerating breeding. The focus should be on destroying breeding sites and preventing

entry into homes.

And what is true of Nairobi is equally true of most rapidly urbanizing African cities like  Lagos, Nigeria; Kinshasa, DRC; Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Luanda, Angola  Bujumbura, Burundi; , Zinder, Niger; , Kampala, Uganda; , Kabinda, Congo; , Mbouda, Cameroon; Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso; Abuja, Nigeria and many others.

  

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Orange Or Apple: Which Is Better For A Consumer Residing In West Africa

Article By Dumbiri Frank Eboh 

The one question that consumers of fruits in West Africa have often battled with, is: which is better orange or apple? For rural dwellers in this sub-region, orange is readily available and so commands more patronage than apple for the obvious reason that the latter is imported and therefore costlier. But the story is not quite the same in West African cities. Here, because of the proximity to ports and the consequent availability of apple at affordable prices, many would prefer apple even though those in the lower class would opt for the less costly orange. But health wise, which is better for someone living in West Africa: orange or apple? A closer look at key indicators, especially those relating to production, importation, storage and preservatives while in transit, among others, present some very interesting observations on these two very important fruits and their health implications for the final consumer residing in West Africa. But first, let’s look at the nutritional value of each fruit.

The Nutritional Value Of Orange

Oranges are a type of healthy, low calorie, highly nutritious citrus fruit. As part of a healthful and varied diet, oranges contribute to strong, clear skin and can help lower a person’s risk of many conditions.

Oranges are popular due to their natural sweetness, the many different types available, and the diversity of uses. For example, a person can consume them in juices and marmalades, eat them whole, or use zested peel to add a tangy flavor to cakes and desserts.

This popular citrus fruit is particularly known for its vitamin C content. However, oranges contain a range of other plant compounds and antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and work against disease.

The Nutritional Value Of Apple 

Apples contain antioxidants, vitamins, dietary fiber, and a range of other nutrients. Due to their varied nutrient content, apples can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Apples come in a variety of shapes, colors, and flavors. They provide a range of nutrients that can benefit many aspects of a person’s health.

Eating a diet rich in apples, may help reduce the risk of several conditions, including cancer, obesity, heart disease and diabetes among others. 

The Impact Of Consumer-Production Proximity On The Efficacy Of Fruits 

Looking closely at the similarity in the health benefits of both fruits, one might be tempted to jump to the conclusion that whichever you opt for, whether orange or apple, is okay. However, the assessment is not as easy as that.

Studies have shown that the proximity of the consumer of a particular fruit to the production location of that fruit, plays a vital role on the efficacy of that fruit on the consumer. This is as a result of several factors. For instance, fruits begin to lose nutrients, especially Vitamin C and certain B vitamins, immediately after being picked. Local, short-transit produce retains higher levels of these nutrients compared to fruit that has traveled long distances. Again, fruits allowed to ripen fully on the tree or vine develop maximum sugar and nutrient content. On the other hand, long-distance, imported fruit is often harvested before it is ripe, missing this peak in nutritional value.

Locally sourced produce requires fewer chemical preservatives, waxes, and artificial ripening agents (like ethylene gas) often used on imported, long-distance shipments.

Besides, some research suggests that eating fruits grown in your own, familiar environment and climate provides nutrients better matched to your body's needs since both you and the product exist in the same biosphere and ecological region. 

With the above in mind, let’s take a comparative look at the orange and the apple in terms of proximity to a consumer in West Africa.

The Proximity Of Consumers To The Production Of Orange And Apple In West Africa 

Even though a few oranges are imported into West Africa, the bulk of oranges consumed in the subregion comes from local production. Nigeria and Ghana are the top producers of oranges in West Africa, with production primarily focused on meeting local consumption demands. These countries produce large quantities for local fresh markets, though they are not major exporters compared to North African producers like Egypt. 

The implication of this is that, the oranges consumed in West Africa are generally more fresh as they do not undergo the unfavourable conditions that imported fruits are made to go through as earlier stated.

But the same cannot be said about apples. Most apples consumed in Africa are imported primarily because the continent's, particularly West Africa's, hot, tropical climate is unsuitable for large-scale production of temperate apple varieties, which require specific, colder conditions. Over 95% of Africa's apple production is concentrated in just four countries (South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria), necessitating imports to meet growing demand in other regions, including West Africa. 

The implication? These long-distance, imported apples are often harvested before they are really ripe and are most times subjected to chemical preservatives, wax, which greatly affect their nutritional values and often impact negatively on the health of the consumer. And since fruits begin to lose nutrients, especially Vitamin C and certain B vitamins, immediately after being picked, it’s obvious most of these apples will lose their nutritional values before they get to the final consumer in West Africa.

Conclusion

Orange is good and nutritious; apple is also good and nutritious. But when it comes to a consumer living in West Africa, orange has a comparative advantage in nutritional delivery to the final consumer. Of course, one finds one or two oranges, especially in some West African cities, that are shipped from the local farms and subjected to ripening agents; but the bulk of the oranges consumed in the subregion are generally fresh and nutritious.

It is difficult to get an apple that is really fresh, without wax and without preservatives in this part of the continent.

 

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