United Nations Children's Fund Cameroon

Abstract The climate crisis is increasingly contributing to a mental health crisis. Policy and practice inadequately account for the mental health costs of climate change and the mental health benefits of climate action. The climate and mental health field is expanding rapidly but unevenly. Connecting Climate Minds (CCM), a global initiative, aimed to develop a guiding vision to ensure investment in and implementation of future research aligns with lived experience needs and appropriately informs policies. CCM convened 1184 contributors with diverse expertise across 126 countries, through 21 online and in-person dialogues. Their insights produced a Global Research and Action Agenda for climate change and mental health. This paper outlines the 53 research priorities structured into four high-level themes (impacts, risks and vulnerable groups; pathways and mechanisms; mental health benefits and risks of climate action; mental health interventions). It also outlines how to implement research and translate evidence to action.

HIV treatment has significantly improved with the introduction of potent antiretroviral therapy (ART), particularly dolutegravir (DTG)-based regimens. With suboptimal adherence reported in resource-limited settings (RLS), real-word evidence on DTG-effectiveness within ART clinics is limited. This study assessed virological response, drug resistance profiling and HIV-1 diversity among ART recipients at the Yaoundé Central Hospital (YCH), Cameroon. A facility-based study was conducted at YCH from May-2023 to February-2025. HIV plasma viral load (PVL) was measured by RT-PCR. Viral suppression (VS) was defined as PVL < 1,000copies/mL. Genotypic resistance testing (GRT) was performed for participants with PVL≥1,000copies/mL. Drug resistance mutations (DRMs) were interpreted using Stanford HIVdb v9.8 and statistics were performed with significance at p < 0.05. Among 6,364 participants enrolled (median-age: 50 [IQR:42–59] years; 71% women), 76% (4,811/6364) were on DTG-based regimens. Median ART-duration was 13 [IQR:9.03–17.4] years, including 3.4 [IQR:3–5] years of DTG-exposure in the DTG-based sub-group. Overall, 93.2% (5,932/6,364) participants achieved VS in 2025; 94% among DTG-based versus 91% among DTG-sparing regimens (OR = 1.66; p = 0.000002). Interestingly, VS was higher with age ≥50years (aOR = 1.44; p < 0.001), DTG-based ART (aOR = 1.65; p < 0.0001) and DTG-exposure ≥3.4years (aOR = 1.29; p = 0.044). Between 2021 and 2025 specifically, VS remained consistently high among participants; with those on DTG-based showing significantly higher and more durable VS compared to those on DTG-sparing therapies (relative risk of failure > 1 for DTG-sparing throughout). Furthermore, from those virally unsuppressed in 2025, 9% (39/432) were lost-to-follow-up, 22% (94/432) were transfer-out to other health facilities and 65% (232/432) re-suppressed after enhanced adherence counselling; leaving us with 17 participants eligible for GRT (PVL≥1000copies/mL). GRT was successful for 70.5% (12/17) and DRMs detected in 83% (10/12), including major DRMs to protease inhibitors (17%), to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (75%) and to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (83%). CRF02_AG (75%) was the prevailing HIV-1 group M clade, followed by A3, D, and CRF18_cpx (each 8.3%). These real-life data reveal viral suppression rates closer to the epidemic control (95%) among DTG-based recipients, especially with older age and DTG-exposure over three years. Considering the broad HIV diversity observed, these findings are essential for modelling the long-term effectiveness of DTG in RLS and beyond. Register on 10/05/2023; Ethical Clearance Number 2023/022045/CEIRSH/ESS/BC.

Abstract Background Wasting remains a major public health concern in Nepal, contributing to preventable morbidity and mortality among children under five. The Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (IMAM) program has been implemented in Bajura district since 2014/15, yet evidence on its coverage and accessibility has been lacking. This study assessed program coverage, identified barriers and enablers, and proposed strategies to improve reach and effectiveness. Methods A Semi-Quantitative Evaluation of Access and Coverage (SQUEAC) approach was employed in three stages. Stage I combined routine HMIS data review with qualitative data from key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observations to identify barriers and boosters. Stage II tested the hypothesis that coverage was higher near Outpatient Therapeutic Care Centres (OTCCs) and lower in distant areas, using active and adaptive case-finding. Stage III conducted a wide-area survey, applying Bayesian analysis to estimate coverage. Results The assessment identified 14 boosters, including OTCC expansion and integration of SAM screening into growth monitoring and immunization services, and 25 barriers, notably RUTF stockouts, inadequate health worker capacity, and low community awareness. Coverage was estimated at 23.5% (95% CI: 14.5–36.0%), well below the SPHERE standard of ≥50% for rural settings. Point coverage was 11.53%, indicating very limited reach at any given time. Female children constituted the majority (69%) of uncovered cases, suggesting possible gender-related disparities. Conclusion IMAM coverage in Bajura is substantially below international benchmarks, constrained by both service delivery gaps and socio-cultural barriers. Strengthening health worker capacity, ensuring uninterrupted RUTF supply, enhancing community engagement, improving data systems, and addressing gender-related inequities are critical to expanding access and improving treatment outcomes.

Background: Health education interventions have a vital role in awareness-raising and behavior-change encouragement. Higher learning institutions are well-placed to lead these programs. The study assessed the impact of university-led interventions concerning health education on knowledge improvement among students and community members along 15 governorates in Egypt. It also appraised the effectiveness of peer education and the wider role of universities in community health promotion. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed for 18 months across the 15 governorates and 12 universities in the four regions of Egypt. A purposive sample of 1,200 university students representing different backgrounds were selected proportionately. Intervention strategies included peer education together with outreach activities and interactive sessions covering topics in nutrition, family health, healthy lifestyles, and disease prevention. Changes in knowledge were measured with pre- and post-intervention surveys, while focus group discussions (FGDs) were employed to elicit qualitative insight into behavioral and awareness perceptions. Results: Students demonstrated significant knowledge gains (p < 0.001), particularly in disease prevention. Community members also showed increased awareness, especially regarding contraception, premarital counseling, and female genital mutilation. The intervention reached an estimated 72,000 individuals. FGDs highlighted persistent cultural and social barriers to behavior change, underscoring the need for continued community engagement and tailored messaging. Conclusions: University-led health education programs can effectively improve health knowledge and awareness. Universities play a vital role in advancing public health through peer-led education and outreach. Sustained efforts are needed to address cultural challenges and strengthen participatory, community-driven strategies for lasting impact.

Abstract Background: Hygiene and Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices are critical determinants of maternal and child health, especially in humanitarian settings. The FDMN makeshift settlements in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, are home to a large population of pregnant and lactating women (PLWs) who face heightened risks due to poor living conditions, limited access to healthcare, and food insecurity. Objective: This study aimed to assess hygiene behaviors and IYCF practices among PLWs in the Kutupalong makeshift settlements and examine the associations of these practices with key socio-demographic characteristics. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 415 PLWs aged 18–35 years, selected using systematic random sampling from four randomly chosen camps. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire between March and April 2023. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were performed using SPSS version 26 to assess associations between socio-demographic variables and key outcomes. Results: Among the respondents, 75.08% of mothers provided colostrum to their newborns, and 91.08% practiced handwashing after defecation. However, only 39.73% initiated complementary feeding at the recommended six months, and just 40.48% of children consumed at least five food groups in the last 24 hours. Handwashing before food preparation was reported by 54.83%. Significant associations were found between maternal age, education, and family structure with both hygiene and IYCF practices (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights the influence of maternal socio-demographic factors on health behaviors and underscores the need for targeted education and behavior change interventions. Improving hygiene infrastructure and IYCF counseling can significantly contribute to better maternal and child health outcomes in humanitarian contexts like the Rohingya makeshift settlements.

Abstract Background:Uganda is consistently one of the highest burden countries for mother-to-child transmission of HIV (MTCT). This study assessed Uganda’s progress toward elimination of MTCT and factors associated with MTCT. Methods:Mother-infant pairs (MIP) were recruited at immunization clinics at randomly sampled public and private health facilities in Uganda during 2017-2019. Using a multistage sampling method, a national representative sample of MIP aged 4-12 weeks were recruited and followed longitudinally for 18 months or until the infant acquired HIV. Early MTCT was defined as an infant with confirmed HIV infection at enrollment and was calculated using logistic regression to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for associated factors. Poisson regression was used to estimate incidence rate and incidence rate ratio (IRR) for infants acquiring HIV at any time during the study after enrollment (late MTCT) and associated factors. Results:Early MTCT was 2.2% (95% CI: 1.3–3.6) and late MTCT rate was 5.2 per 1000 person-years (95% CI: 2.5-10.9). In the adjusted model, only detectable maternal HIV viral load (≥1,000 copies/mL) was significantly associated with early MTCT (aOR: 6.8, 95% CI: 2.3-19.9). Similarly, ever having a detectable viral load (at any visit) was significantly associated with late MTCT (IRR: 6.2, 95% CI: 1.2-31.7). Conclusion:Uganda’s program has made large strides to eliminate MTCT. Identifying and addressing elevated maternal HIV viral load, especially during pregnancy and the early breastfeeding period could further reduce the number of new childhood infections in Uganda.

Purpose: This study investigates how the implementation of Integrated Financial Management Information Systems (IFMIS) influences internal audit practices at the Ministry of Finance in Juba, South Sudan. It aims to assess IFMIS's impact on governance and financial accountability, particularly in a developing country like South Sudan, which struggles to provide accurate and transparent financial records. Methodology: The study employed a descriptive method, surveying 86 respondents selected by multistage selection from a target population of 150. Preliminary findings reveal that IFMIS significantly affects internal audit practices, with key correlations found between internal control systems (p = 0.003), organizational accountability (p = 0.011), and financial reporting systems (p = 0.024). However, no significant link was found between cash management, budgeting systems, and internal audits (p = 0.092). Findings: The research suggests that improving government financial transaction recording and processing facilitates better access to reliable financial data, enhancing transparency and accountability. The study concludes that strengthening cash management, expanding the scope of financial reporting, and improving internal control systems are essential for effective IFMIS integration in South Sudan's public finance management Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The research focused on public sector management in South Sudan, emphasizing the role of the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) in enhancing internal audits, transparency, and accountability. It proved beneficial to the Ministry of Finance and Planning, improved taxpayer morale, and encouraged greater private sector investment. Additionally, the study provided a valuable framework for future research on financial management reforms in developing countries (Aguto &amp; Akol, 2018).

Child malnutrition remains a significant public health concern in Karamoja, Uganda. This study investigated the prevalence and determinants of simultaneous wasting, stunting, and anaemia (collectively termed WaStAn) among children aged 6-59 months in Karamoja. Secondary data from the Food Security and Nutrition Assessment (FSNA) collected by the World Food Program, UNICEF, and the Uganda Bureau of Statistics in February 2022 were used. The participants included women aged 15-49 years and children aged 0-59 months living with their mothers. The analysis revealed a high prevalence of wasting (13.0%), stunting (41.4%), and anaemia (55.1%), with younger children (12-23 months) disproportionately affected. A worrying 4.6% of children presented with WaStAn, highlighting the need for comprehensive approaches targeting multiple forms of undernutrition. Factors associated with WaStAn included age, sex (males more affected), geographical location, socioeconomic status, maternal education, food consumption score (wasting), and residence type (stunting). The study underscores the urgency for multisectoral interventions addressing these risk factors across various levels. Recommendations include improved screening and treatment, promotion of optimal feeding practices, micronutrient supplementation, deworming, hygiene improvements, women's empowerment, enhanced food security, and strengthened district-level capacity for nutrition management.

Актуальні проблеми юридичної науки та практики у воєнний період : Міжнародна науково-практична конференція. Міжнародний економіко-гуманітарний університет імені академіка Степана Дем’янчука, 10 жовтня 2025 р. Львів – Торунь : Liha-Pres, 2025. 160 с.

HIV infection and its progression to AIDS depend on several factors including host genetic factors. The immunological mechanisms of host resistance to HIV infection greatly influence the prevalence of HIV in a given region. Worldwide, Cameroon not exempted, the frequency of AIDS-associated genes varies and may influence this prevalence. The North and Far North Regions of Cameroon have had the lowest HIV prevalence in the country for many years despite risky behaviors associated with their customs and habits. In this work, we seek to explore the contribution of host genes to the HIV low prevalence in these regions. Five genes variants previously described as HIV AIDS related were studied. These genes are: CCR5Δ32, CCR5promoter59029G, CCR2-64I, SDF1-3'A and Trim5α(R136Q). A total of 384 consented participants were included in this study. The HIV serological status was confirmed using national algorithm. Genomic DNA was extracted from the buffy coats and used for genotyping. The results obtained were compiled in Excel 2016, Epi Info 7.1 and snpStats software and Chi two tests allowed us to compare the frequencies of the AIDS related alleles in the North with those in other Regions of Cameroon and to measure the impact of these ARGs on protection against HIV. The frequency of protective alleles CCR5Δ32, CCR5promoter59029G, CCR2-64I, SDF1-3'A and Trim5α(R136Q) was the allelic frequencies should be expressed as percentages i.e. 0.52%; 37.56%; 36.46%; 25.19% and 69.33%. These allelic frequencies exhibited a significant difference when compared to those obtained in other regions of Cameroon (p < 0.01). Protective alleles were predominant in the Northern region compared to others and were associated with resistance to HIV [(p < 0.0001); OR = 2.02 CI, 95%]. The higher frequency of HIV-protective alleles in the northern regions may be a contributing factor to the lower prevalence of HIV. Nevertheless, this should be reinforced by other preventive and surveillance methods to guarantee the sustained low prevalence. HIV can develop resistance through the process of mutation, but the host targets themselves are genetically stable. The study of these host genetic restriction factors is of great value in the design of a practical cure for HIV infection or an effective vaccine.