Cabo Verde, Mauritius and Seychelles eliminate measles and rubella
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In a significant public health achievement, Cabo Verde, Mauritius and Seychelles have eliminated measles and rubella, becoming the first sub-Saharan countries to attain this milestone.
The three countries were verified by the African Regional Verification Commission for Measles and Rubella Elimination, established by World Health Organization (WHO).
Cabo Verde, Mauritius and Seychelles join 94 and 133 others globally verified as having eliminated measles and rubella respectively. Measles and rubella are highly contagious airborne viruses. Measles can result in severe complications and death, especially among young children, and rubella can cause irreversible birth defects if infection occurs during pregnancy. Both diseases are vaccine preventable.
The achievement by the three countries follows the recommendation of the Regional Verification Commission for Measles and Rubella Elimination, which met in Johannesburg, South Africa, in October 2025. After reviewing comprehensive programmatic and surveillance data, the commission confirmed that the three small island developing states have interrupted endemic transmission of both viruses for more than 36 months, while maintaining high-quality disease surveillance systems capable of rapidly detecting and containing any imported cases.
“This is a major public health achievement. Congratulations to Cabo Verde, Mauritius and Seychelles on this important milestone in our collective efforts to control and end diseases in Africa. It shows what's possible when countries put prevention first and make vaccines a priority,” said Dr Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “We must build on this success so that every child in Africa can grow up healthy and protected.”
Cabo Verde has fully funded its immunization programme since 1998 and maintained coverage above 90% for 2 decades. Strong political engagement on immunization, especially towards measles and rubella immunization has been critical in ending the local transmission of the two diseases. The country has not had a confirmed measles case since 1999. The last confirmed rubella cases were in 2010.
“Today, we stand together at a truly historic moment—not only for Cabo Verde, but for the entire African region,” said Honourable Jorge Figueiredo, Minister of Health, Cabo Verde. “This achievement is a testament to what is possible when governments, health professionals, communities, and international partners unite behind a common goal. For decades, measles and rubella have threatened the health and futures of our children. Today, we celebrate the end of that threat in our countries.”
In Mauritius, no measles cases have been reported since 2019 and all recent suspected measles and rubella cases were adequately investigated and discarded as non-measles and non-rubella cases. The country responded to a 2018–2019 measles outbreak with renewed vaccination and surveillance efforts. By 2024, measles-mumps-rubella vaccination coverage at national level reached 98% for the first dose and 96% for the second dose.
“This milestone reflects decades of investment in strong public health systems, unwavering political commitment and the dedication of our health professionals and communities,” said Honourable Anishta Babooram, Junior Minister of Health and Wellness, Mauritius.
“Elimination is not the end of the journey. Sustaining this status requires constant vigilance, rapid detection and immediate response to any imported case. Mauritius remains fully committed to maintaining high vaccination coverage, strengthening cross-border health security and reinforcing early warning systems,” she added.
Seychelles has maintained over 95% coverage for the first and second measles vaccine doses for more than two decades, supported by vigilant surveillance, laboratory confirmation and health screening at points of entry. The last measles outbreak was contained in 2020. No rubella cases have been confirmed since 2016.
“This sustained effort has not been without its challenges but through the dedication of our Extended Programme on Immunization team we have successfully kept measles and rubella transmission at bay for decades,” said Honourable Marvin Fanny, Seychelles Minister of Health. “I am proud to announce that ... Seychelles was certified as measles and rubella free, a monumental achievement for our nation.”
Since 2001, countries across the African region have implemented measles control strategies that include providing two primary vaccine doses, conducting periodic mass vaccination campaigns, intensive disease surveillance and improved outbreak response as well as clinical care for measles cases. Between 2000 and 2023, these efforts are estimated to have prevented almost 21 million deaths, a 79% reduction in estimated annual deaths during this period.
Over the years, immunization coverage across the region has increased. In 2024, coverage of the first dose of the measles-rubella vaccine reached 71%, up from 67% in 2022, while coverage of the second dose rose from 43% to 55% in the same period. In 2024, five countries—Botswana, Cabo Verde, Mauritius, Rwanda and Seychelles—have achieved the 95% coverage benchmark needed to interrupt transmission.
Under the Measles and Rubella Partnership, of which WHO is a founding member, coordinated efforts aim to achieve a world without measles and rubella. Led by WHO, UNICEF, the American Red Cross, the Gates Foundation, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the UN Foundation and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the partnership works with countries to raise vaccination coverage, fund, plan, implement and monitor quality supplementary campaigns, investigate outbreaks and provide technical and financial support for effective outbreak response and support a global laboratory network for measles and rubella.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) - Cabo Verde.Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay brings contemporary living to Morocco’s renowned surf capital
Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) proudly announces the debut of Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay (http://apo-opa.co/47YRVUf), in the heart of Morocco's surf capital. Nestled on the scenic hills of Taghazout Bay with sweeping views of the Atlantic, the new property features 208 modern serviced apartments, padel court, two outdoor pools and a kids area.
Strategically located on a hillside overlooking the ocean, the new Residences offers an unbeatable location, only steps from the world-class Tazegzout Golf course and a quick two minutes by shuttle ride from the beach. Taghazout Village, a vibrant hub of surf culture and coastal charm, is only a ten-minute drive away. Surrounded by golden beaches, relaxed cafés, and dramatic natural landscapes, every moment invites travelers to disconnect and immerse themselves in the essence of seaside living.
“Taghazout Bay continues to grow as one of North Africa's most exciting coastal destinations. This opening reflects our commitment to expanding in high-potential leisure markets with properties that give guests space to slow down, find their balance, and enjoy meaningful moments. Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay offers the best base in a setting that inspires relaxation and connection,” said Tim Cordon, COO, Middle East, Africa & Southeast Asia Pacific, Radisson Hotel Group.
The comfort of home, the ease of Radisson
The property has 208 modern serviced apartments, ranging from two to three bedrooms. Each apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living areas, and a private terrace or balcony. Families and groups can enjoy the independence of a home away from home, paired with the calm simplicity of Radisson's Scandinavian-inspired hospitality.
Whether guests choose slow mornings in the sun or days filled with sand, surf, and adventure, Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay makes it easy to live at the pace of the coast.
Designed to flow with nature
The new Residences span twelve elegant low-rise buildings in soft beige tones that blend naturally with the coastal environment. Drought-resistant greenery and native argan trees enrich the landscape while interiors embrace a minimalist design with earthy textures and muted colors inspired by Taghazout's surf and shoreline.
Leisure to match any mood
Two outdoor pools set the stage for effortless leisure. The central pool creates a vibrant social hub, with the expansive ocean-facing pool boasts panoramic views of the Atlantic. For those seeking action, a brand-new Padel court adds a dynamic way to stay active and energized.
Beyond the property, guests can explore well-known local attractions including the Targant Museum, Taghazout's popular skatepark, and the vibrant Souk El Had, a 20-minute drive away. For more off-the-beaten-path adventures, guests can enjoy sandboarding at sunset on the Timlalin Dunes, sampling freshly caught fish at the port of Imi Ouaddar, or discovering new surf spots along the scenic coastline.
Jean-Baptiste Bohler, Cluster General Manager of Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay and Radisson Blu Resort, Taghazout Bay Surf Village said, “At Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay, we offer our guests the freedom and flexibility of a residence, with fully equipped kitchens for those who wish to feel at home, while still enjoying the comfort, amenities, and services of our neighboring Radisson Blu Resort Taghazout Bay Surf Village. It is a perfect balance of independence and hospitality in one of Morocco's most breathtaking coastal settings.”
Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay expands Radisson Hotel Group's presence in Morocco, delivering a new way to stay that embraces coastal living, open-air freedom, and the joy of being fully present.
For more information and to book, click here: http://apo-opa.co/47YRVUf .
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.Media Contact:
Saadiyah Hendricks,
Director,
Global Corporate and Area PR & Social Media (MEA, MED and SEAP),
Radisson Hotel Group
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Nataliya Tkachenko,
Associate Director Global Consumer PR,
Radisson Hotel Group
nataliya.tkachenko@radissonhotels.com
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About Radisson Hotel Group:
Radisson Hotel Group is a rapidly expanding international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with more than 1,580 hotels in operation and under development in +100 countries. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos.
The Radisson brand portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson — brought together under one commercial umbrella brand, Radisson Hotels.
Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/3LFcfmh) is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter, counting more than 24 million members. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.
Radisson Meetings (http://apo-opa.co/3LH4Y5o) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions, placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional, and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely Carbon Compensated.
At Radisson Hotel Group, we care for people, communities, and planet (https://apo-opa.co/3K6B89S) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as carbon-compensated Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics.
The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members.
For more information, visit our corporate website http://apo-opa.co/4r2hexh.
About Radisson:
Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian-inspired hospitality that enables guests to find more harmony in their travel experience. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment, helping guests to find the right balance for their stay, switch off and relax. Radisson hotels can be found in leisure destinations, suburban and city settings, and near airports. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards.
Radisson is part of the Radisson family of brands, which includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson — brought together under one commercial umbrella brand, Radisson Hotels.
For reservations and more information, visit our website http://apo-opa.co/49pg0Ga.
Withdrawing of Infrastructure Grant a Setback for the Eastern Cape Education Department, Committee Chair
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The Select Committee on Education, Sciences and the Creative Industries has called on the Eastern Cape Department of Education to respond to the shocking news of half-a-billion-rands infrastructure grant being withheld by the National Treasury.
The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Makhi Feni, said the news was a setback for the province, and the timing is bad because it happens when the Eastern Cape delegation of the permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces is to be troubled by this news.
“The Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Education needs to explain this challenge as it is the most affected by infrastructure needs. This is the time for honesty and reflection. The Eastern Cape is the last province to lose this amount of money sadly for the reasons that the National Treasury has alluded to,” said Mr Feni.
The committee visited schools in the Amathole West District and in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, in Gqeberha last month where serious infrastructure challenges were identified. The sad situation of the infrastructure needs was no better pronounced than at Greenville Primary in Bethelsdorp, in Gqeberha.
Mr Feni said what the National Treasury is saying has revealed the reasons behind a situation where 100% of the infrastructure budget would be spent in the second quarter, when in fact a mere 10% of performance had been achieved.
“The department should motivate to Treasury for the money to be released and not hide their heads into the sand. If help is required, they should indicate as such so that the national Department of Basic Education takes care of the provincial affairs. The province did not need this news, and the timing is bad.”
The committee will demand accountability and will hold the Eastern Cape Department of Education to the highest standard of accountability particularly around the issues of infrastructure.
The Eastern Cape's permanent delegates to the NCOP will from tomorrow be in the OR Tambo District on the Provincial Week Programme to, among other things, assess service delivery in the municipalities in the district.