The most important in this week’s headlines out of and concerning Africa, for those who need help catching up.

In this week’s news, Pope Francis visits Africa, the citizens of Burkina Faso cast their votes, and the WHO is criticized for their Ebola response.

[/media-credit] Crowds cheer for Pope Francis in Uganda.

Pope Francis Visits Africa

Pope Francis embarked on a six-day mission to Africa this week, visiting the countries of Kenya, Uganda, and the Central African Republic. The Pope – who was enthusiastically greeted by crowds wherever he went – went to Africa to promote peace and urge politicians to act responsibly. During his visit, he met with heads of state, and visited displaced communities of both Christians and Muslims alike.

Burkina Faso Holds Election

Despite being delayed a month, the elections in Burkina Faso are underway. Large numbers of people turned up to vote, leading to large lines forming outside polling stations. This is Burkina Faso’s first democratic election since an uprising overthrew longtime President Blaise Compaore last year. There are 14 candidates running for president in the election. Results should be in early this week.

Harvard Panel Criticizes WHO for Ebola Response

A panel created by the Harvard Global Health Institute has criticized the World Health Organization for how it handled this year’s Ebola outbreak. The panel was formed to discuss the ways in which disease response and management needs to be reformed in general, and used the WHO as an example of the problems with current systems. According to the panel, the WHO delayed too long in their response and in declaring a public emergency. For their part, the WHO says they will use the feedback provided by the Harvard panel and other groups to improve their program.

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Raevyn Goates

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