LONDON, Aug 01 (IPS) - When this Indian Ocean- island gained independence from Britain in 1948 after some 450 years of colonial rule under three western powers, it was simply named the “Dominion of Ceylon”.

UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed on Tuesday called for urgent efforts to boost climate action, protect biodiversity, promote sustainable food systems, and ensure decent jobs and social protection.

The security situation in wider West Africa could worsen unless the political crisis in Niger is resolved, the top UN official for the region said on Tuesday, underlining the need for peace.

United Nations agencies on Tuesday kicked off World Breastfeeding Week, emphasizing the need for greater breastfeeding support across all workplaces.

UN food security agencies on Tuesday warned that South Sudan faces a severe humanitarian crisis unless immediate action and investment are taken to address food insecurity, climate challenges, and insecurity.