The South West State administration has commended the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops for ensuring the safety and security of civilians during the just concluded holy month of Ramadan.

At a joint post-Ramadan security assessment meeting in Baidoa, South West State Minister for Internal Security, Hassan Mohamed Abdiqadir, applauded the ATMIS Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) troops for facilitating the peaceful observance of Ramadan in the region.

ATMIS Sector Three Commander, Maj Gen Besfat Fente Tegegn, and senior ATMIS military and South West State administration and security officials, attended the meeting at the Sector Three Headquarters.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to ATMIS ENDF troops for their outstanding efforts in securing the region in collaboration with our regional security teams. They effectively conducted operations and patrols to counter the threat of Al-Shabaab insurgents and ensured the safety of the local community,” said Minister Hassan, commending the troops for their unwavering dedication to peace and stability in the region.

The meeting, part of the regular joint engagements between ATMIS and key security partners in the region, evaluated the implementation of security integration, cooperation, and coordination efforts during the month-long Ramadan period and Eid-al-Fitr celebrations.

“We pledged to enhance security in the region before Ramadan, and we are here to assess the outcomes and challenges. We can proudly say that we have successfully achieved that feat, thanks to the close coordination between ATMIS and South West State security organs,” said Brig Gen Besfat Fente Tegegn, the ATMIS Sector Three Commander.

He highlighted the significance of the close collaboration between ATMIS, the South West State administration, and the local community in achieving the Mission’s objectives.

The ATMIS ENDF troops and the South West regional troops – Darawish, were deployed to bolster security on the outskirts of Baidoa and Forward Operating Bases (FOBs). The police and intelligence agencies operated within the city, effectively countering Al-Shabaab menaces.

“We have had a very successful Ramadan period due to the concerted efforts of ATMIS, SNA, NISA, South West Darawish, and police personnel. We sincerely commend ATMIS troops for maintaining security in Baidoa and the entire region,” said Abdullahi Ali Watin, Baidoa District Mayor.

Under the African Union peace support operation, Ethiopian National Defence Forces troops are responsible for Gedo, Bay and Bakool regions of South West State in Somalia.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).

Almost 55 million people are facing further food and nutrition insecurity in West and Central Africa during the region’s three-month lean season from June through August, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) said on Friday.

This is a four million increase in the number of people currently dealing with food insecurity in that region.

Mali is facing the worst situation – around 2,600 people there are presumed to be experiencing catastrophic hunger – IPC food classification index phase 5 (read our explainer on the IPC system here).

“The time to act is now. We need all partners to step up, engage, adopt and implement innovative programs to prevent the situation from getting out of control while ensuring no one is left behind,” said Margot Vandervelden, WFP’s Acting Regional Director for Western Africa.

Economic challenges and imports

The most recent data shows that economic turmoil including stagnated production, currency devaluation, increasing inflation and trade barriers have exacerbated the food crisis in Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Mali.

These economic challenges as well as fuel and transport costs, regional body ECOWAS sanctions and restrictions on agropastoral product flows, have contributed to a sharp increase in staple grain prices across the region – a more than 100 per cent increase over the past 5 years.

To date, cereal production for the 2023-2024 agricultural season has seen a 12 million tonne deficit while the availability for cereals per person is down two per cent compared with the region’s last agricultural season.

Currently, West and Central Africa are reliant on imports to satisfy the population’s food requirements, but economic hardship has increased the cost of imports.

WFP’s Ms. Vandervelden said these issues call for a stronger investment in “resilience-building and longer-term solutions for the future of West Africa.”

Economic challenges and imports

The most recent data shows that economic turmoil including stagnated production, currency devaluation, increasing inflation and trade barriers have exacerbated the food crisis in Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Mali.

These economic challenges as well as fuel and transport costs, regional body ECOWAS sanctions and restrictions on agropastoral product flows, have contributed to a sharp increase in staple grain prices across the region – a more than 100 per cent increase over the past 5 years.

To date, cereal production for the 2023-2024 agricultural season has seen a 12 million tonne deficit while the availability for cereals per person is down two per cent compared with the region’s last agricultural season.

Currently, West and Central Africa are reliant on imports to satisfy the population’s food requirements, but economic hardship has increased the cost of imports.

WFP’s Ms. Vandervelden said these issues call for a stronger investment in “resilience-building and longer-term solutions for the future of West Africa.”

Shocking highs

Malnutrition in West and Central Africa has risen to a shockingly high rate with 16.7 million children under five experiencing acute malnutrition.

More than two thirds of households are struggling to afford healthy diets and eight out of 10 children, ranging from six to 23 months lack the consumption of foods essential to their optimal growth and development.

“For children in the region to reach their full potential, we need to ensure that each girl and boy receives good nutrition and care, lives in a healthy and safe environment, and is given the right learning opportunities,” said Gilles Fagninou UNICEF Regional Director.

Parts of northern Nigeria are also experiencing many cases of acute malnutrition in about 31 per cent of women aged 15 to 49.

Ms. Fagninou explained that strengthening “education, health, water and sanitation, food, and social protection systems,” can result in lasting differences in children’s lives.

Sustainable solutions

UN agencies the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UN Children’s Fund UNICEF and WFP,  are calling on national governments, international organizations, civil society and the private sector, to establish sustainable solutions to strengthen and support food security and increase agricultural productivity.

These solutions should also alleviate the adverse effects of economic volatility, they said.

There is also an expectation that governments and private sectors should join forces to guarantee the human right to food for all.

UNICEF and WFP plan to extend national social protection programs to Chad and Burkina Faso, as millions of people in Senegal, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger have benefitted from such programmes. 

Additionally, FAO, agricultural development fund IFAD, and WFP have collaborated across the Sahel to expand “productivity, and access to nutritious food through resilience-building programmes.”

Dr. Robert Guei, FAO Sub-Regional Coordinator for West Africa and the Sahel, said that when responding to these cases of food and nutrition insecurity, it is essential to promote and support policies that will encourage the “diversification of plant, animal, and aquatic production and the processing of local foods”.

He said this was “crucial not only to ensure healthy, affordable diets all year round, but also and above all to protect biodiversity, with the potential to mitigate the effects of climate change, and above all to counter high food prices and protect the livelihood of the affected population”.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

The Halhale agro-industry project, under the auspices of the Livestock and Crops Corporation, is making significant contributions to the exchange of knowledge and experience with newly assigned college graduates.

Maj. Kibreab Abraham, General Manager of the Corporation, reported that over three thousand college graduates, including more than two thousand two hundred, are actively engaged in the project. He noted that their involvement through on-the-job theoretical and practical training is significantly contributing to the project’s development.

Maj. Kibreab further stated that the graduates are involved in various activities such as dairy farming, preparation of vegetable and fruit seeds, and farming of vegetables and animal fodder. They also participate in the installation of water pipelines, playing a vital role in the project’s expansion and improvement.

The college graduates themselves reported gaining valuable experience by actively participating in agro-industry activities. They expressed a strong commitment to further enhance their participation in the development of the project.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

From sunrise to sunset, no water or food for long hours. Then, breaking the fast at sunset, followed by one to two more meals before dawn. Meals during Ramadan are often more abundant and richer than usual, consumed at unusual hours of the night.

As the sacred month of Ramadan comes to an end with Eid al-Fitr, the celebration marking the end of the fasting period, many people wonder how to smoothly return to their daily eating habits. How can one make this transition without any hiccups and adopt behaviors that promote a healthy diet while avoiding post-Ramadan nutritional pitfalls?

To guide you in this process, Dr. CISSOKO, Nutritionist at Nestlé, provides some insights for a harmonious transition to a balanced diet after Ramadan.

Readjusting Your Digestive System without Rushing:

To avoid potential stomach discomfort, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, it is recommended to opt for easily digestible foods. Fish is preferable to meat as it is lighter and easier to digest. Cooked vegetables with low fat content are also gentler on the digestive system compared to raw vegetables. Whole or semi-whole grains are rich in fiber and promote a healthy intestinal transit. Fully ripe fruits are also easier to digest than unripe ones.

Water, on the other hand, is your best ally for a smooth transition before returning to a normal diet. In addition to maintaining the body’s water balance, it plays an essential role in digestion by facilitating the process and helping eliminate toxins. Water remains the best beverage.

Lastly, prioritize small portions and take the time to chew your food well, which allows for better digestion and optimal nutrient absorption.

Opt for Gradual Changes, the Key to Dietary Rebalancing:

For a smooth transition after Ramadan, it is recommended to adopt a measured and thoughtful approach, whether in introducing different food groups or in the frequency and intensity of physical activities. Take the time to gradually introduce foods in a balanced manner, ensuring to include all necessary food groups for a healthy diet. It is important to note that physical exercise is of paramount importance in the context of a balanced diet. Light activities such as walking are particularly recommended at the beginning. They stimulate the body without subjecting it to excessive efforts. Over time, you can gradually increase the intensity of these physical activities according to your abilities. This gradual approach is the key to regaining dietary balance after Ramadan.

Avoiding Post-Ramadan Nutritional Pitfalls:

It is important to remain aware of potential nutritional pitfalls that could hinder a balanced diet.

Excessive Sugar Intake: After a period of fasting, it can be tempting to indulge in excessive sweets and desserts. It is essential to limit the consumption of added sugar and prioritize natural sources of sugar, such as fruits.  
Excessive Portions: After fasting, it is common to want to compensate by eating larger portions. However, this can lead to overeating and calorie imbalance. It is important to maintain moderate portions and eat slowly to better feel satiety.
Ensuring a Good Variety of Foods: After Ramadan, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet by ensuring the inclusion of a variety of foods to guarantee an adequate intake of essential nutrients. Make sure to include a wide range of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and sources of healthy fats in your meals.
Maintaining Proper Hydration: After a period of fasting, it is important to ensure adequate hydration. Make sure to drink enough water throughout the day to maintain good hydration. It is recommended to consume at least 2 liters of water per day.
Being Mindful of Snacking: Prioritizing structured meals over snacking helps maintain a healthy weight and avoid unnecessary calorie intake.
Listening to Your Body: Relearning to listen to hunger and satiety signals is a valuable skill to adjust your diet to your true needs.
Planning to Avoid Slip-Ups: Anticipating and preparing meals is an effective strategy to stick to a balanced diet and avoid impulsive food choices.

The period following Ramadan is an opportune time to establish or reinforce healthy and sustainable eating habits. By taking conscious steps, each individual can make the most of this transition to nourish their body and mind. At Nestlé, we encourage and support this journey by offering a variety of products and tips to accompany you in your quest for a balanced diet.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Nestlé.