A controversial $1.6 million US-funded study on hepatitis B vaccines in Guinea-Bissau newborns has been halted due to ethical concerns about withholding a proven vaccine in a country with high disease burden. The study design, which would have left half of participating children without access to the vaccine, drew criticism from medical professionals and ethics advocates before its planned January 5 launch.
18 January 2026 · The Namibian →
South Africa's treasury is considering raising taxes on beer and wine by up to 20% to reduce heavy drinking, which health advocates support. Beer producers and tavern owners warn that higher prices could drive consumers to illegal alcohol and harm already-struggling small businesses.
18 January 2026 · The Namibian →
Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni has been declared winner of Thursday's election with 72% of the vote, extending his four decades in power by another five years. Opposition challenger Bobi Wine has condemned the result as "fake" and called for non-violent protests, while the election process was marked by violence, internet blackouts, and restrictions on Wine's movements.
18 January 2026 · The Namibian →
Heavy rainfall has killed more than 100 people across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, forcing mass evacuations and rescue operations. Authorities warn that further destructive weather may be imminent, with flooding destroying tens of thousands of homes and submerging vast areas of crops.
18 January 2026 · The Namibian →