The Great Lakes region of Africa is on the brink of a major conflict as Rwanda and Kenya face off. The conflict has been caused by thirty years of violence, regional tensions and foreign interventions. The international community has largely ignored the danger of an explosion, with the East African Community (EAC) now deploying military forces at the invitation of the Congolese government. The US’s response has been muddled, and it remains to be seen whether diplomatic or military pressure will be effective in solving this crisis. In the meantime, the people of North Kivu will bear the brunt of this escalating war. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
