#Policy27
Local climate adaptation must be central to African planning
A new study warns that locally led climate adaptation must be part of national planning in Africa. It says efforts are fragmented, underfunded and often driven by external priorities, and highlights agriculture and early warning systems.
Photo by YODA Adaman, Unsplash
Some processed foods may be addictive
Researchers say many ultraprocessed products — like snacks, sugary drinks and fast food — share addictive qualities with tobacco. The study urges a shift from blaming individuals toward policies that hold companies accountable for engineered, habit-forming foods.
AI is changing basic health care in sub‑Saharan Africa
Artificial intelligence is already helping basic medical care in parts of sub‑Saharan Africa. Pilot projects in Kenya, Ghana and Rwanda show faster diagnosis, fewer wrong prescriptions and quicker delivery of blood and imaging results.
Clean water reduces child stunting in Mozambique
A University of Notre Dame study using national survey data finds that improved access to safe drinking water lowers the odds of stunting in Mozambican children by about 20%. Improved sanitation showed no independent effect on stunting.
Power crisis in the Dominican Republic despite rising renewables
The Dominican Republic increased renewable energy to 25% but grid problems and a brief shutdown at Punta Catalina 2 caused a supply crisis. The president declared an emergency and signed a decree to speed up procurement.
Lower birth rates helped close the gender pay gap
A new study finds that falling fertility in the United States helped narrow the gender pay gap. Researchers estimate that about eight percent of the gap’s improvement came because women had fewer children, and they offer policy suggestions.
Financial worries disrupt sleep in National Guard members
A study of full-time Army and Air National Guard members found that financial stress leads to tense bedtime habits and poorer sleep. Researchers measured stress, bedtime behaviours, and sleep using surveys and wrist actigraphs.