Which UN specialized agencies are most active in Africa?

The UN specialized agencies most active in Africa are the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a significant role in Africa, focusing on improving health and wellbeing. It works to combat diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and various neglected tropical diseases, which are prevalent in many African countries. The WHO also supports countries in strengthening their health systems, improving access to healthcare, and promoting health research. For instance, during the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, the WHO played a crucial role in coordinating international response and providing technical support.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is another UN agency with a strong presence in Africa. UNICEF's work in Africa is centred around improving the lives of children and young people. This includes efforts to increase access to education, particularly for girls, and to improve child health and nutrition. UNICEF also works to protect children from violence, exploitation, and abuse, and to provide emergency assistance in times of crisis. For example, in response to the ongoing conflict in South Sudan, UNICEF has been providing life-saving services such as clean water, education, and child protection.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is also highly active in Africa, working to combat hunger and improve food security. The FAO supports countries in developing their agricultural sectors, promoting sustainable farming practices, and improving access to nutritious food. The FAO also provides technical assistance in areas such as fisheries, forestry, and natural resource management. In recent years, the FAO has been involved in efforts to combat the desert locust infestation in East Africa, providing support for surveillance and control operations.

In conclusion, these three UN specialized agencies - WHO, UNICEF, and FAO - are among the most active in Africa, each playing a crucial role in addressing the continent's unique challenges and working towards sustainable development.