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Showing posts from January, 2025

THE SACREDNESS OF PREGNANCY IN AFRICAN SPIRITUALITY AND RITUALS

OV ERVIEW  Pregnancy, in many African societies, is not merely a biological process but a deeply spiritual and sacred event that connects the expectant mother, her unborn child, the community, and the ancestral spirits. Rooted in the belief that all life is interconnected and influenced by spiritual forces, pregnancy is seen as a divine gift and a continuation of ancestral lineage. This sacred understanding is reinforced through various rituals, symbols, and practices, which ensure the well-being of both mother and child and honor the spiritual forces at work. AFRICAN SPIRITUAL PERSPECTIVES ON PREGNANCY  1. *The Role of Ancestors* In African spirituality, ancestors hold significant influence over the lives of the living. Pregnancy is viewed as a continuation of the ancestral line, and the child is seen as a living link to those who have passed. In many cultures, the health and success of the pregnancy are believed to depend on the ancestors' blessings. Specific rituals are per...

Trump's WHO Exit: The Fallout for Namibia and Africa's Health Future

By Gideon Kapuka , Researcher, Writer, and Business Consultant Contact: gideonkapuka5@gmail.com  Date: January 21, 2025 On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump announced the United States' withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). Citing dissatisfaction with the organization's handling of global health crises and accusations of political bias, this decision could profoundly impact global health funding and programs, particularly in Africa. *Namibia's Relationship with WHO* Namibia became a member of the WHO in 1990, the same year it gained independence. Since then, the country has collaborated with WHO on various health initiatives, including efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. *HIV/AIDS Funding in Namibia* Namibia has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates globally, with an estimated 15.3% of the adult population affected. In 2017, the country spent $447.28 per capita on healthcare, with $113 allocated specifically to HIV/AIDS programs. The total expenditure on HIV...