Report on Recent Developments in Angola, Niger, and South Sudan

Polio Outbreak in Angola: Challenges to Health and Well-being (SDG 3)

Angola, certified polio-free in 2015, is currently facing a resurgence of the disease following the reporting of several new cases in a Western province. This development poses significant challenges to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, which aims to eradicate communicable diseases and ensure healthy lives for all.

The re-emergence of polio threatens public health infrastructure and highlights the need for sustained immunization campaigns and disease surveillance to prevent further outbreaks.

Use of Starlink Technology by Islamist Militants in Niger: Implications for Peace and Security (SDG 16)

A recent report has revealed that Islamist militants in Niger are utilizing Starlink satellite technology to enhance their operational capabilities. This advancement complicates efforts to maintain peace and security in the region, directly impacting Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

The increased connectivity provided by Starlink technology enables militants to coordinate activities more effectively, posing challenges to regional stability and governance.

South Sudanese Women in Fashion: Promoting Gender Equality and Economic Growth (SDG 5 and SDG 8)

South Sudanese women have become highly sought after on international fashion catwalks, gaining recognition for their unique style and presence. This trend supports Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality by empowering women and promoting their visibility in global industries.

Furthermore, their success contributes to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by opening new economic opportunities and fostering inclusive growth within the creative sectors.

Production Team

• Presenter: Audrey Brown
• Producers: Charles Gitonga (Nairobi), Yvette Twagiramariya, Bella Hassan, Alfonso Daniels (London)
• Senior Producers: Patricia Whitehorne, Richard Kagoe
• Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer
• Editors: Andre Lombard, Alice Muthengi

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – The article discusses the resurgence of polio in Angola, directly relating to health and disease control.
2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – The mention of Islamist militants using Starlink technology in Niger highlights issues of conflict, security, and governance.
3. SDG 5: Gender Equality – The reference to South Sudanese women gaining recognition in fashion touches on women’s empowerment and gender equality.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 3 Targets:
   • Target 3.3: End epidemics of communicable diseases such as polio.
   • Target 3.b: Support the research and development of vaccines and medicines for communicable diseases.
2. SDG 16 Targets:
   • Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.
   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels.
3. SDG 5 Targets:
   • Target 5.5: Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels.
   • Target 5.a: Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. For SDG 3:
   • Incidence rate of polio cases (number of new polio cases reported in Angola).
   • Vaccination coverage rates in affected regions.
2. For SDG 16:
   • Number of violent incidents or attacks involving militants in Niger.
   • Measures of institutional effectiveness and security sector governance.
3. For SDG 5:
   • Representation of South Sudanese women in fashion and leadership roles.
   • Economic participation rates of women in creative industries.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: bbc.com