WAHO Leadership: Togolese public health expert Prof. Palokinam Pitche officially started as Director-General of the West African Health Organization (WAHO) on Sept. 1, bringing over 25 years of experience in HIV care, health systems strengthening, and regional protocol harmonization. Household Health & Poverty Data: Togo’s INSEED has launched a Household Living Conditions Survey (EHCVM-3) running Sept. 7 to Dec. 2026, with questions on income, spending, and access to education, healthcare, and jobs—aimed at updating poverty and social indicators. COPD Advocacy: The Speak Up for COPD coalition released a new Joint Declaration urging governments to close gaps in COPD diagnosis and treatment, highlighting that most people with COPD still go undiagnosed. Sickle Cell Progress: Across Africa, drugmakers and researchers are linking local production to sickle cell care, as WHO pushes wider access to hydroxyurea and child-friendly formulations. Diphtheria Alert (Nigeria): Plateau State reported 23 diphtheria deaths and 143 suspected cases, citing antitoxin shortages and late presentation as key challenges. Health Financing Training (ECA): ECA’s statistics workshop in Togo and other countries trains health ministries to make the economic case for health spending using health-focused social accounting tools. Community Wellness Fundraiser: Bright Future Togo announced “Flow for a Future” on Sept. 25 in Wellington, featuring stretching and meditation to support children’s education and healthcare. Marine Protection Debate: Togo co-sponsored a proposal to review commercial whaling quotas, drawing criticism from whale conservation groups.