In this edition of Squirrel News, we cover how AI monitoring is reducing stillbirths and neonatal deaths by a huge number in Malawi, Sierra Leone’s nationwide Ebola vaccination drive ten years after the region’s devastating outbreak, and the UK’s new pre-watershed ban on TV ads for sugary foods.
How AI monitoring is cutting stillbirths and neonatal deaths by 82% in Malawi
The software monitors the baby’s vital signs during labour, alerting care workers to any potential complications. The AI system is less reliant on time, equipment, and skilled staff compared to traditional methods – making it a useful tool in resource-limited hospitals where health worker shortages are a major obstacle.
Sierra Leone launches nationwide Ebola vaccine campaign
Sierra Leone has started to distribute the single-dose vaccine nationwide – the first such programme in West Africa since the region’s devastating 2014 Ebola outbreak. The campaign – supported by the Sierra Leonean government, Gavi, the WHO, and UNICEF – will initially target 20,000 frontline workers nationwide.
UK imposes ban on daytime TV ads for unhealthy foods
The UK government has announced a ban on daytime television advertisements for sugary foods, including granola and muffins – as well as those with excessive fat and salt levels – as part of its fight against childhood obesity. Under new regulations, ads promoting less healthy food and beverages will be restricted to air only after the 9:00 pm watershed, starting in October next year.
Belgium’s sex workers win rights to sick leave, maternity pay, and pensions
The world-first legislation means that sex workers are recognised by the government as legitimate workers – giving them essential and long-overdue protections, autonomy, and security. The new law lets them refuse clients and specific acts, and makes sure they are not financially penalised for pregnancy or excluded from social safety nets.
Scientists find reserves of rare metals for clean energy in toxic coal waste
Millions of tons of coal ash – a byproduct of burning one of the world’s most polluting fossil fuels – are stored in ponds and landfills, posing a big threat to waterways and soil. However, this toxic waste may also contain a valuable source of rare earth elements essential for clean energy tech.
Sails make a comeback in shipping to help tackle its carbon footprint
The international merchant fleet of over 100,000 ships, which carries more than 80% of worldwide trade, is also responsible for around 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions. To address this, wind-assisted technologies are being introduced to engine-powered cargo vessels to reduce fuel consumption.
Making travel more accessible for people with disabilities
From specialised tours to inclusive hiking paths, travel experiences are evolving to better accommodate the needs of people with a variety of different handicaps.
Centuries ago, Southwest Native American tribes cultivated vast peach orchards, but thousands of trees were destroyed in 1863 during the forced relocation of the Diné. Horticulturist Reagan Wytsalucy is working to restore these peaches, having successfully germinated 300 new trees over the past decade.
In Malawi, discussing sex and mental health is often considered inappropriate – but one radio show is changing that narrative. “Spot On: Kalikonse Tikadziwe”, which translates to “To Know Everything” in Chichewa, is a weekly programme that addresses these sensitive topics, challenging the silence around them across the country.
