The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to battle the mpox virus, formerly known as monkeypox, amid a lack of vaccines and antiviral treatments. While Western countries have managed to control the virus with available resources, the DRC faces significant challenges due to limited access to Tecovirimat and the smallpox vaccine. The situation is exacerbated by poor infrastructure and delayed testing, leading to prolonged diagnosis times. Efforts are underway to improve virus surveillance with funding from Western donors, but widespread access to necessary medical resources remains elusive. The article highlights concerns of medical racism and the need for global investment in healthcare for diseases prevalent in poorer regions.

Fifteen years after the genocide in Sudan's Darfur region, the conflict remains unresolved. Despite the ousting of former leader Omar al Bashir and the establishment of a transitional government, the Sudanese Liberation Army continues to resist disarmament due to deep mistrust. The region remains plagued by violence, particularly along ethnic lines, with recent clashes resulting in significant casualties and displacement. The International Criminal Court is set to try key figures for war crimes, but the local population remains skeptical about achieving lasting peace. Humanitarian efforts, such as those by Doctors Without Borders, provide some relief, but the overall security situation remains dire.

Rwanda's rapid economic growth and improved public services are overshadowed by serious human rights abuses and political repression under President Paul Kagame. Critics, including former government officials and human rights advocates, highlight instances of torture, unlawful killings, and suppression of political opposition. Despite international praise for Rwanda's development, the U.S. State Department and Human Rights Watch report significant human rights violations. Kagame's supporters argue that his strong-arm tactics are necessary for national unity and preventing ethnic conflict, but the legitimacy of his overwhelming electoral victories is questioned.

In Beni, Democratic Republic of the Congo, health officials are combating an Ebola outbreak with new experimental drugs and vaccines, despite the region's ongoing conflict. The World Health Organization and other international bodies are involved, but the Congolese government and the UN face criticism for inadequate safety measures. Local and international health workers are striving to contain the virus, even as misinformation and violence complicate their efforts. The story highlights the challenges and progress in treating Ebola, including the recovery of a young patient, Janine, after 22 days of treatment.

Minnesota students, led by physical education teacher Ben Butters at Matoska International School, are participating in fundraisers to support water access projects in developing countries. Their efforts have significantly contributed to the Nyaka School in Uganda, which now benefits from a rain collection system. The initiative, supported by the organization H2O for Life, emphasizes community involvement and sustainability. Despite pandemic disruptions, H2O for Life raised $210,000 in the most recent school year, funding 75 water and sanitation projects globally.

Jane Ferguson, a correspondent known for her war zone reporting, discusses her memoir 'No Ordinary Assignment' on PBS NewsHour. She reflects on her upbringing in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, her career covering conflicts like the Syrian uprising and the U.S. war in Afghanistan, and her close calls, including leaving Homs before Marie Colvin's death and departing Kabul just before the Abbey Gate bombing. Ferguson expresses gratitude for her life and remains optimistic despite witnessing suffering, emphasizing the importance of covering underreported stories.

Rescue workers in Turkey and Syria are facing increasingly difficult conditions as they search for survivors following devastating earthquakes. In Adiyaman, Turkey, international teams, including a 200-strong team from USAID, are working tirelessly amidst widespread destruction. Stephen Allen of USAID describes the scale of the disaster as unprecedented. In Hatay, miraculous rescues continue, but hope is fading for many. Turkish officials are investigating over 130 individuals for allegedly overseeing substandard construction. In Syria, the World Health Organization's Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlights the immense need in the war-torn country, where only the White Helmets are conducting rescue operations. Survivors recount harrowing experiences, and the destruction has left many questioning the safety of their homes.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant decline in routine childhood immunizations worldwide, with over 25 million children missing basic vaccines. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) faces challenges in delivering vaccines due to its size and misinformation, particularly on social media, which has fueled vaccine hesitancy. Efforts to rebuild trust and educate communities, including through U.N. and Ministry of Health campaigns, are underway. Health workers aim to restore immunization rates, emphasizing the importance of vaccines in preventing life-threatening diseases.

Madagascar is facing severe food insecurity due to multiple cyclones and a historic drought. The World Food Program warns of significant damage to rice crops, the main food source for Malagasy people, leading to increased food prices and malnutrition rates. Madagascar contributes minimally to global carbon emissions, yet it is disproportionately affected by climate change. President Andry Rajoelina has called for support from high-emission countries. The country is currently bracing for another cyclone, with the tropical storm season lasting until May.

Dr. Paul Farmer, a renowned physician and anthropologist, passed away, leaving a significant legacy in global health. Co-founder of Partners In Health, Farmer was instrumental in advocating for equitable healthcare access in developing countries, particularly during the HIV epidemic in Haiti. His efforts influenced the creation of the PEPFAR program, which provided lifesaving drugs to millions. Farmer's holistic and justice-oriented approach to health inspired many, including infectious disease specialist Celine Gounder. His work continues to impact global health practices and policies.