For 42-year-old Mariam Staford, election season in Tanzania is not a time of hope but of terror. While many Tanzanians engage in the festive rallies and campaign songs, Mariam and others with albinism face a grim reality: heightened risks of violence driven by deeply rooted superstitions. Albinism, a rare genetic condition affecting approximately 30,000 Tanzanians, reduces melanin production, resulting in lighter skin, hair, and eye color. Tragically, this condition has made them targets of brutal attacks fueled by the false belief that their body parts bring wealth, luck, or political success. Mariam’s story is a harrowing testament to this violence. In 2008, during a local election period, armed men attacked her in her home, severing both her arms. She survived, but her unborn child did not. The trauma of that night still haunts her. ‘Even now, I sometimes dream of that night,’ she says. ‘When I wake up, I touch my arms and remember they are not there.’ Mariam’s experience is not isolated. Since 2008, there have been 211 documented attacks on people with albinism in Tanzania, including 79 killings and 100 mutilations. These attacks often spike during election seasons, as political aspirants seek supernatural advantages. Despite government efforts to curb the violence, including awareness campaigns and stricter laws, the problem persists. In June this year, another attack was reported in Simuyu, though the victim escaped unharmed. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has condemned these ‘harmful traditional beliefs,’ but rural areas remain vulnerable. Activists and survivors like Mariam argue that more needs to be done to protect the albinism community. While progress has been made in some areas, the murder of two-year-old Asimwe Novath last year serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing threat. As Tanzania prepares for its upcoming elections, Mariam and others with albinism live in fear, choosing to stay home rather than participate in the democratic process.
分类： society
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‘Rest in power’: Filipino activists mourn death of 19-year-old pro-Palestine influencer
The Filipino activist community is mourning the untimely death of Emman Atienza, a 19-year-old social media influencer and advocate for mental health and Palestinian liberation. Atienza, who was found dead at her home in Los Angeles, USA, was a member of the League of Filipino Students (LFS) and a convenor of the group Filipino Youth 4 Palestine (F4YP). Her family has not disclosed the cause of her death but expressed their profound grief in a statement.
Atienza was known for her passionate advocacy and willingness to use her influence for social causes. LFS honored her in a Facebook post, sharing a black-and-white photo of her holding a placard during a protest at the US Embassy in Manila in October 2024. The post described her as a courageous individual who braved torrential rain and police harassment to stand with activists calling for an end to genocide and Palestinian liberation.
Born into a prominent political family, Atienza was the daughter of popular Filipino TV host Kim Atienza and granddaughter of former Manila mayor Lito Atienza. Her older sister, Eliana, is also a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause, having been suspended from the University of Pennsylvania in May 2024 for participating in a pro-Palestine protest.
The Atienza family remembered Emman as a beacon of joy, laughter, and love, whose authenticity and openness about her mental health struggles inspired many. They urged the public to honor her memory by embodying the qualities she lived by: compassion, courage, and kindness.
Atienza’s death has left a void in the activist community, but her legacy of advocacy and empathy continues to inspire those who knew her and followed her work.
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UAE weather tomorrow: Foggy conditions expected; humidity to increase at night
Residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) should prepare for a mix of weather conditions on Saturday, October 25, as the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecasts fair to partly cloudy skies alongside a drop in temperatures. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi may experience highs of up to 35°C, Al Ain is expected to see temperatures ranging between 22°C and 36°C. As night falls, humidity levels are predicted to rise, particularly in coastal and internal regions, with the possibility of fog or mist formation early Sunday morning. Winds will remain light to moderate, blowing from the Northeast to Northwest at speeds of 10 to 20 km/h, occasionally reaching 30 km/h. Meanwhile, the Arabian Gulf and the Oman Sea are anticipated to remain calm. The NCM advises residents to stay updated on weather developments and take necessary precautions during foggy conditions.
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UAE: Temporary winter tent camp rental period, season date revealed
As the winter season approaches, Umm Al Quwain is preparing to welcome residents and visitors with its newly established temporary winter camps. These camps, designed to offer a unique outdoor experience, are set to open on November 3, 2025, and will be available for rent until the end of the season. The initiative aims to encourage people to embrace nature and enjoy the cooler months in a serene environment. The Umm Al Quwain Municipality has outlined specific guidelines for those interested in renting these camps. Rentals must be for personal use only, with a duration ranging from three to six months. Applications are restricted to citizens of Umm Al Quwain, and the camps cannot be used for commercial purposes. Campers must adhere to strict safety and cleanliness standards, including compliance with Civil Defense regulations. Additionally, the use of spotlights, loudspeakers, and drones is prohibited to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Violations of these rules may result in permit revocation and penalties. The camps are located in the Al Aqran and Al Thania areas, providing ample space for outdoor activities. Fees and insurance deposits must be paid within three days of application approval to secure a permit. This initiative reflects Umm Al Quwain’s commitment to promoting outdoor recreation while ensuring safety and environmental responsibility.
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UAE: Variable speed limit system on major Abu Dhabi road starting October 27
In a bid to improve traffic flow and ensure safety on one of Abu Dhabi’s busiest roads, the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) has announced the implementation of a variable speed limit system on Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street. The new system, set to take effect on October 27, will dynamically adjust speed limits based on specific conditions, including adverse weather, peak traffic hours, special events, and ongoing road maintenance. This initiative underscores the emirate’s commitment to leveraging technology for smarter urban mobility. Earlier this year, the speed limit on this key thoroughfare was reduced from 120 km/h to 100 km/h, a move aimed at curbing accidents and enhancing driver safety. Authorities have urged motorists to strictly adhere to the changing speed limits, emphasizing the system’s role in minimizing congestion and preventing road incidents. The variable speed limit system is part of Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to modernize its transportation infrastructure and create a safer, more efficient driving environment for residents and visitors alike.
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Al Ain museum reopens: Ancient artefacts, diplomatic gifts; here’s what’s inside
The Al Ain Museum, a cornerstone of the UAE’s cultural heritage, has reopened its doors to the public, offering a fascinating journey through the nation’s history. Located in the Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the museum combines natural beauty with the historical significance of the Sultan Fort, making it a vital cultural and educational hub. Founded in 1969 by the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the museum initially opened with a temporary exhibition in the Sultan Fort before its official inauguration in 1971. Over the years, it expanded to include four exhibition halls, showcasing artifacts from various archaeological campaigns. The museum’s collection spans over 300,000 years, featuring Paleolithic tools, Iron Age artifacts, and diplomatic gifts from around the world. Among the highlights are a wooden model of the Dome of the Rock, a silver plate from Egypt, and gold ornaments from the Bronze Age. The museum also houses the Tower Tomb, a pre-Islamic burial site discovered during restoration works in 2018. With its grand reopening in 2025, the Al Ain Museum continues to serve as a bridge between the past and present, preserving the UAE’s rich heritage for future generations.
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Watch: New Dubai Student Council ‘excited’ as they receive letters from Sheikh Hamdan
In a momentous event on Friday, October 24, 2025, 16 students in Dubai were honored to receive personal letters from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, marking their selection as the inaugural members of the newly established Dubai Students Council. Alongside the letters, the students were gifted a copy of ‘Lessons from Life,’ authored by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The council, comprising a diverse group of students, aims to represent the voices of nearly 400,000 students across Dubai’s private education system. The council’s first official meeting was attended by Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of the Executive Council of Dubai, and Aisha Miran, Director General of Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), along with her team. The students expressed their excitement and commitment to making a positive impact. Moza Ahmed, the Chairperson, and Elliott Bathe, the Vice Chairperson, are among the council members. Membership is valid for one academic year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and eligibility criteria. The council will act as a vital link between the student community and KHDA, fostering collaboration and addressing student concerns.
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Ajman cracks down on neglected buildings, ‘unsafe houses’ to boost urban appeal
In a significant move to bolster Ajman’s urban appeal, the Ajman Municipality has launched a comprehensive campaign targeting neglected buildings and unsafe structures. The initiative, part of the Ajman Urban Plan 2040, mandates property owners to maintain the aesthetic integrity of their buildings, particularly along key streets such as Ajman Corniche, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street, Sheikh Khalifa Street, and Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Street. The campaign will eventually extend to other areas including Al Rumaila, Al Rashidiya, Al Nuaimiya, Al Jurf, and Al Hamidiyah.
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Stunning night sky captured over Liupan Mountain in Ningxia
On October 17, 2025, photographer Qi Yingtai achieved a remarkable feat by capturing a mesmerizing night sky from the summit of Liupan Mountain in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. His lens skillfully documented a dynamic celestial display, featuring rolling clouds, a glittering starry expanse, fleeting meteor streaks, and the luminous Leonard comet—all seamlessly framed in a single shot. This extraordinary photograph not only highlights the natural beauty of the region but also underscores the growing interest in astrophotography and the preservation of dark skies. Liupan Mountain, known for its pristine environment and minimal light pollution, has become a favored destination for stargazers and photographers alike. Qi’s work serves as a testament to the awe-inspiring wonders of the night sky and the importance of protecting such natural treasures for future generations.
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UK police hunt for an imprisoned asylum-seeker who was released in error
In a shocking turn of events, Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, an Ethiopian asylum-seeker convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, was mistakenly released from a British prison on Friday. The incident has triggered an urgent police search and reignited tensions over migration policies in the UK. Kebatu, 38, was sentenced to 12 months in prison last month for multiple offenses, including sexual assault and harassment. His case had previously fueled widespread anti-migrant protests across the country during the summer. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed outrage, calling the release ‘totally unacceptable’ and vowing to ensure Kebatu is apprehended and deported. Essex Police reported that Kebatu was seen boarding a train in Chelmsford after his erroneous release, prompting an immediate manhunt. The Prison Service has launched an investigation, and a prison officer has been suspended pending the inquiry. Aaron Stow, president of the Criminal Justice Workers’ Union, condemned the incident as a ‘profound failure of duty’ and a betrayal of justice. Kebatu’s arrest and trial had previously sparked protests outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, where he was housed alongside other migrants. The case has highlighted ongoing tensions over the UK’s handling of unauthorized migration, particularly the use of hotels to accommodate asylum-seekers. Critics argue that this policy is costly and exacerbates community tensions, leaving migrants feeling targeted. Kebatu’s lawyer stated that his client wishes to be deported after serving his sentence.