NEWS FROM AFRICA……
Hi all, thought you might find this interesting.
Marius.
Cape bushwillow tree cures cancer (March 31, 2000)
The Daily Mail & Guardian reports that the bark from the Cape
bushwillow tree, which is indigenous to the Eastern Cape, might be the
cure for cancer the whole world has been waiting for.
The report states that a United States researcher in 1987 isolated
small organic molecules called combretastatins from the bark of the
Cape bushwillow tree. Now, after more than 10 years of research,
development and trials, this work has culminated in the
combretastatins being transformed into a cancer-busting drug called
Combretastatin. The drug is expected to be released on the market
within the next four years.
According to the article, Combretastatin’s method of attack differs
radically from traditional approaches to treating cancer. Most cancer
drugs attack the cells in a tumor directly, causing severe damage to
both healthy and malignant cells and causing unpleasant side effects
for the patient. Combretastatin, however, targets the network of blood
vessels that sustain life in the tumour instead, effectively cutting
off its blood supply. It only attacks the blood vessels that feed the
tumours, leaving the healthy vessels intact.
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Life in Kruger back to normal (March 31, 2000)
In a media release issued yesterday, the South African National Parks
(SANP) reports that life in the Kruger National Park has become normal
again after the most devastating floods in the history of the Park
since it was opened to tourists in 1927.
According to the SANP, most of the damage to the infrastructure of the
Park has been repaired and all services are fully operational. The
Skukuza restcamp is fully operational, except for the riverside
chalets and huts that are still to be repaired. With the exception of
Biyamiti, Jakkalsbessie, Shimuwini, Boulders, Balule, and Roodewal
Bush Camps, all other camps in the Park are open and fully
operational.
However, the Crocodile Bridge gate remains closed as the low level
causeway is still submerged. As the road leading to Kruger Gate from
Hazyview is full of potholes, visitors to the south of the Kruger are
advised to use the Malelane Gate to enter the Park. The Pafuri Gate in
the north-western corner of the Park opened yesterday.
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another part of Africa…………..
Baboons attack villagers in drought-stricken Kenya (March 30, 2000)
Sushil and Hiten Chauhan reports from Kenya that the severe drought in
the country is causing conflict between man and beast. In Mandera,
situated in the country’s northern parts, thirsty villagers were
confronted by equally thirsty baboons when a water tanker arrived
there. A fierce battle ensued, during which 9 baboons were killed and
many injured villagers had to rushed off to the local hospital. The
villagers have apparently requested help as they fear other animals
such as lion, leopard and elephant may show the same behaviour if the
drought persists.