Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Dominica’s citizenship programme boosts tourism and investment

    Dominica’s citizenship programme boosts tourism and investment

    The Commonwealth of Dominica, celebrated as the ‘Nature Isle’ for its distinctive volcanic landscapes and ecological diversity, is experiencing remarkable economic transformation through its innovative Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP). This strategic initiative has positioned the island nation as an emerging hub for global investors and luxury travelers alike.

    Since its establishment in 1993 and expanded in 2015, Dominica’s CIP offers two primary investment pathways: a $200,000 contribution to the government fund or equivalent investment in approved real estate developments. The program grants successful applicants full citizenship rights, enhanced global mobility, and multi-generational transfer benefits, establishing Dominica as a competitive player in the investment migration industry.

    The economic impact extends beyond direct revenue generation. Tourism infrastructure is undergoing significant enhancement with a new international airport scheduled for completion by 2027 and a super yacht marina development in the island’s northern region. These projects coincide with record-breaking visitor numbers in 2025, with notable recognition from prestigious travel publications including The New York Times and National Geographic.

    Recent program enhancements include mandatory interviews for applicants and revised eligibility criteria for dependents, strengthening the program’s integrity while maintaining its accessibility. Post-citizenship support services provide comprehensive assistance with tax registration and social security integration, particularly appealing to sophisticated investors seeking advantageous estate planning solutions.

    Authorized agents like Vardikos & Vardikos, operating since 2005 with international offices and promoter networks, facilitate streamlined application processes typically completed within four months. This efficient framework has made Dominica’s CIP one of the Caribbean’s most cost-effective citizenship solutions, simultaneously driving infrastructure development, tourism growth, and economic diversification for the island nation.

  • Greece working with another 4 European countries to set up migrant deportation hubs outside EU

    Greece working with another 4 European countries to set up migrant deportation hubs outside EU

    In a significant hardening of European migration policy, Greece has joined forces with four other EU member states to establish deportation facilities in third countries, with African nations emerging as the preferred location. Greek Migration Minister Thanos Plevris confirmed the collaborative effort with Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, and Denmark during a national television broadcast on Wednesday.

    The initiative, described as moving from theoretical discussion to practical implementation, aims to create ‘return hubs’ for migrants whose asylum claims have been denied and whose countries of origin refuse repatriation. Minister Plevris revealed that technical teams from the five nations will convene next week to advance the plan, following preliminary ministerial discussions. While emphasizing the African continent as the preferred location, Plevris noted this selection remains ‘not binding’ and indicated that larger European partners are leading negotiations with potential host countries.

    The proposed centers would serve dual purposes: processing individuals ineligible for asylum while simultaneously functioning as a deterrent to prospective migrants with weak protection claims. Although the minister projected an initial framework within months, specific operational timelines remain undetermined.

    This development occurs against the backdrop of Greece’s strategic position as a primary EU entry point for those fleeing conflict and poverty across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Tens of thousands undertake perilous sea journeys annually, either from Turkey to nearby Aegean islands or via the longer Mediterranean route from North Africa to southern Greek islands.

    Athens has increasingly adopted stringent migration measures, despite allegations from human rights organizations regarding illegal pushback operations—claims the government vehemently denies. Minister Plevris cited a 21% reduction in illegal arrivals for 2025 compared to 2024, representing 13,000 fewer migrants, alongside a 40% decrease over the past five months.

    The European context further solidified last week when EU lawmakers approved new immigration policies permitting member states to deny asylum and deport migrants originating from designated safe countries or those who could seek protection in nations outside the bloc.

    With Greece currently processing 5,000-7,000 annual returns against 40,000-50,000 new arrivals—approximately half resulting in rejected applications—Plevris acknowledged existing repatriation rates as insufficient. The minister will travel to Rome next week for trilateral discussions with Italian and Spanish counterparts, including a scheduled meeting with Pakistani officials to enhance cooperation with countries of origin.

  • Turkey’s president rejects Israel’s recognition of Somaliland

    Turkey’s president rejects Israel’s recognition of Somaliland

    Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has publicly denounced Israel’s formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent state during his official visit to Ethiopia. Speaking at a joint press conference with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Addis Ababa, Erdogan characterized the recognition as potentially destabilizing for the volatile Horn of Africa region.

    The diplomatic development comes after Israel became the first nation to acknowledge Somaliland’s sovereignty in December, three decades after the territory declared independence from Somalia. The move has drawn sharp criticism from Mogadishu, which maintains Somaliland remains an integral part of Somali territory.

    Erdogan positioned Turkey as a advocate for regional self-determination, stating: ‘The Horn of Africa should not become the battlefield of foreign forces. We believe that countries of the region should address their problems through dialogue and cooperation.’

    The visit highlighted Turkey’s growing geopolitical influence in East Africa, with Erdogan having previously mediated tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia in 2024 when Addis Ababa attempted to lease coastline territory from Somaliland for port access.

    Meanwhile, Prime Minister Abiy utilized the diplomatic platform to advocate for Ethiopia’s maritime aspirations, describing the nation’s landlocked status as ‘geographical imprisonment’ for its 130 million citizens. Abiy specifically requested Turkish diplomatic support in securing peaceful access to sea ports, notably referencing Eritrea’s southern port of Assab located approximately 60 kilometers from Ethiopia’s border.

    The discussions occur against a backdrop of escalating tensions in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, where reports indicate military buildups and growing civil unrest. The complex regional dynamics are further complicated by shifting alliances and the legacy of the 1998-2000 border war between Ethiopia and Eritrea that resulted in over 100,000 casualties.

  • Social media suspended in Gabon ‘until further notice’

    Social media suspended in Gabon ‘until further notice’

    Gabon’s media regulatory body has enacted an indefinite suspension of all social media platforms, citing concerns over national stability and institutional security. The High Authority for Communication (HAC) announced the drastic measure through a nationally televised address on Tuesday evening, pointing to the proliferation of false information, cyberbullying incidents, and unauthorized personal data disclosures as primary justifications.

    Jean-Claude Mendome, spokesperson for the communications authority, declined to identify specific platforms targeted by the ban, though WhatsApp, Facebook and TikTok maintain substantial user bases throughout the central African nation. The suspension comes during a delicate transitional period following General Brice Oligui Nguema’s military coup in 2023 and subsequent presidential election victory last year.

    The decision has generated significant concern among Gabon’s approximately 2.5 million citizens, particularly affecting younger demographics and business communities that rely heavily on digital platforms. A Libreville restaurant owner, speaking anonymously, revealed that nearly 40% of his clientele originates from social media promotions, expressing grave concerns about the economic impact.

    Contrasting perspectives emerged among citizens, with some expressing understanding of the government’s position. A local taxi driver remarked that ‘there’s no smoke without fire,’ suggesting authorities must have compelling reasons for implementing such restrictive measures.

    This development occurs against a backdrop of escalating social unrest, with teachers and civil servants maintaining strike actions since December over compensation and working conditions. The Nguema administration, which secured power with over 90% of the electoral vote after ending the Bongo family’s fifty-year reign, had previously committed to governmental reforms and increased transparency.

    Notably, the current administration permitted international and independent media to document ballot counting during recent elections—a departure from previous regimes that employed digital blackouts as information control mechanisms. Mendome emphasized that freedom of expression remains ‘a fundamental right enshrined in Gabon,’ despite the sweeping social media restrictions.

    The media regulator specifically referenced ‘inappropriate, defamatory, hateful, and insulting content’ on digital platforms as undermining human dignity, social cohesion, and national security. Such content, authorities contend, risks generating social conflict and jeopardizing national unity alongside democratic progress.

  • Peru’s Congress approves motions to impeach President Jose Jeri

    Peru’s Congress approves motions to impeach President Jose Jeri

    In a decisive political maneuver, Peru’s legislative body has overwhelmingly voted to remove Interim President Jose Jeri from power. The congressional session held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, resulted in the approval of seven censure motions against the embattled leader, triggering an immediate presidential vacancy.

    The impeachment proceedings concluded with 75 legislators supporting the motion, while 24 voted against and three abstained. The outcome demonstrates significant political opposition to Jeri’s administration, which began on October 10, 2025, following the congressional removal of former President Dina Boluarte.

    Fernando Rospigliosi, acting President of the Congress, presided over the extraordinary session and formally declared the presidency vacant after announcing the voting results. The legislative body has scheduled a plenary session for Wednesday at 6 p.m. local time to elect a new congressional leader, who will subsequently assume the nation’s presidency according to constitutional protocols.

    Peru’s constitutional succession plan dictates specific procedures for presidential transitions. When a president becomes temporarily or permanently unable to govern, power first transfers to the vice president. If both vice presidential positions are vacant, authority passes to the congressional president, who must immediately call for new elections in cases of permanent presidential incapacity.

    This political development represents the latest chapter in Peru’s ongoing governance challenges, marking another significant leadership transition in the country’s turbulent political landscape.

  • Somalia renews its US-backed fight against al-Shabab militant group. Here is why it matters

    Somalia renews its US-backed fight against al-Shabab militant group. Here is why it matters

    Somalia’s military campaign against the al-Qaida-affiliated al-Shabab militant group has gained significant momentum through a combination of U.S.-backed airstrikes and expanded ground operations, according to government officials. The offensive comes at a critical juncture as African Union peacekeeping forces gradually withdraw, transferring security responsibility to Somali national forces after nearly two decades of insurgency.

    The conflict’s trajectory has shifted notably through strategic operations targeting al-Shabab’s leadership hierarchy, bomb-making infrastructure, and territorial strongholds. Somali defense officials report successful reclaiming of territories in multiple regions including Lower Shabelle, Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle, and parts of Jubbaland that had remained under militant control for years. Key locations such as Jilib Marka, Gendershe, and Dhanaane—previously considered al-Shabab strongholds—have reportedly been secured by government forces.

    The United States has played a crucial role in this tactical turnaround through AFRICOM’s precision airstrikes targeting training facilities, weapons depots, and senior leadership figures. Recent air operations have specifically focused on destroying improvised explosive device manufacturing sites and neutralizing vehicle-borne explosives before deployment. Somali intelligence services provide verified targeting information to minimize civilian casualties, though past strikes have drawn criticism from human rights organizations.

    Security analysts note that expanded aerial surveillance and strike capabilities have fundamentally altered the battlefield dynamics. Drone coverage has enabled identification of previously inaccessible underground hideouts and supply routes, allowing government troops to advance into areas that were once al-Shabab sanctuaries. The technology also provides early warnings of militant movements near the capital Mogadishu, where security remains tight despite continued bombing attempts.

    The timing of this offensive coincides with the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia gradually reducing its footprint, making international intelligence coordination and air support increasingly critical. However, Somalia faces overlapping challenges including climate-induced drought, political tensions between federal and regional authorities, and funding shortages affecting both security and humanitarian operations.

    Experts caution that military gains must be consolidated through effective governance and service delivery to prevent al-Shabab from reestablishing control in vacated territories. The government has announced plans to rebuild homes and deliver aid in newly captured areas, recognizing that lasting stability depends on Somalia’s ability to secure and govern territory independently as international support scales back.

  • Sierra Leone officials facilitated illegal mansion-building in a key national park

    Sierra Leone officials facilitated illegal mansion-building in a key national park

    FREETOWN, Sierra Leone — An explosive government investigation obtained exclusively by The Associated Press and The Gecko Project reveals systematic illegal construction of luxury mansions within Sierra Leone’s Western Area Peninsula National Park, with evidence indicating complicity by senior government officials. Nearly four years after President Julius Maada Bio commissioned the probe, its findings remain concealed from the public despite identifying an “environmental time bomb” threatening the capital’s water supply and ecosystem.

    The investigation uncovered that at least 50 extravagant homes have been constructed or are underway within the park boundaries in the Bio Barray neighborhood, where rainforest stood as recently as 2019. Satellite imagery analysis confirms ongoing construction despite legal prohibitions against development in protected areas.

    Critical findings indicate that former Lands Minister Denis Sandy signed approximately 175 documents granting land leases to private individuals—a move described as “flagrant violation” of environmental protections. The committee recommended punitive measures against Sandy and 16 other named officials, but no substantive action has been taken.

    The environmental implications are severe: the threatened national park serves as both a vital watershed for Freetown—providing 90% of the city’s water through an adjacent reservoir—and a proposed UNESCO World Heritage Site. Deforestation increases risks of catastrophic landslides and water shortage crises, reminiscent of a 2017 landslide that killed over 1,000 people.

    Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, an environmentalist and presidential aspirant, stated unequivocally that the government is “fully aware of what is going on,” alleging that powerful residents receive explicit permission to ignore environmental laws.

    Despite President Bio’s public commitment that “nobody is above the law” and promises to act on the findings, current Chief Minister David Sengeh provided vague responses regarding implementation. Meanwhile, the Anti-Corruption Commission claims it never received the report, and the National Protected Area Authority’s former director asserted all encroachment had ceased—contradicted by AP’s on-the-ground observations.

    The investigation identified 876 landowners within park boundaries, with AP verification confirming 46 villas inside protected territory. At least 14 property owners hold government positions, including within the presidential office, land ministry, and Environment Protection Agency, raising serious questions about institutional corruption and environmental governance.

  • Takeover bid for Unikai fails after weak shareholder response

    Takeover bid for Unikai fails after weak shareholder response

    A significant corporate acquisition attempt in the Gulf food sector has concluded unsuccessfully as Kuwait’s Al Wafir for Marketing Services failed to secure adequate shareholder approval for its proposed takeover of Dubai-listed Unikai Foods PJSC. The voluntary conditional cash offer, which sought to obtain controlling interest in the prominent dairy and food producer, officially lapsed after falling substantially short of mandatory acceptance thresholds established under UAE securities regulations.

    Initiated in January 2026, Al Wafir’s acquisition strategy targeted between 50% plus one share and 51% of Unikai’s outstanding ordinary shares at an offering price of AED 6.60 per share. This ambitious move would have positioned the Kuwait-based marketing firm as the majority stakeholder in the established UAE food manufacturer. However, by the February 16th closing deadline, the bid had garnered acceptances representing merely 24.22% of Unikai’s total issued share capital—significantly below the minimum 50% plus one share requirement mandated for transaction completion.

    Notably, Al Wafir maintained no pre-existing equity position in Unikai and acquired no additional shares outside the formal offer mechanism during the specified period. Consequently, the total shares tendered remained unchanged at the closure of the offering window.

    According to regulations enforced by the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority, conditional offers automatically become void when minimum acceptance conditions remain unfulfilled. Unikai Foods confirmed the formal cancellation of the proposed acquisition, clarifying that no share transfers would occur and participating shareholders would not receive the proposed cash consideration.

    The unsuccessful takeover bid ensures Unikai’s continued operation as an independent publicly-traded entity with its current ownership structure intact. Industry analysts interpret this development as indicative of either shareholder dissatisfaction with the valuation offered or substantial confidence in Unikai’s autonomous growth trajectory within the competitive regional food market.

    Market observers note this outcome underscores the considerable challenges regional acquirers face when attempting to secure controlling positions in publicly-listed corporations without robust shareholder consensus. The failure simultaneously signals Unikai investors’ apparent preference for maintaining control amid current valuations or their anticipation of enhanced future performance.

    While terminating this specific acquisition attempt, financial experts suggest the outcome doesn’t preclude future strategic interest in Unikai, particularly given the expanding UAE food processing sector and increasing regional demand for branded consumer staples that continue to make established food producers attractive investment targets.

  • Personal branding emerges as a strategic priority for leaders in a trust‑driven global economy

    Personal branding emerges as a strategic priority for leaders in a trust‑driven global economy

    In an era defined by digital transparency and heightened global competition, personal branding has evolved from a peripheral consideration to a fundamental leadership competency. Across rapidly developing economies including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, executives are recognizing that their individual reputation, visibility, and authenticity now directly influence commercial outcomes alongside corporate strategy.

    According to Jürgen Salenbacher, personal branding strategist and founder of CPB LAB in Barcelona, “Trust has become the new currency of leadership.” This shift reflects broader market transformations where accelerated decision-making, globalized operations, and diverse stakeholder ecosystems demand greater transparency about who drives organizations, not just what they do.

    The strategic importance of executive visibility manifests in concrete business interactions. Investment discussions, partnership formations, and talent acquisition increasingly center on the public profile of founders and CEOs. This trend proves particularly significant in Middle Eastern markets where long-term relationships form the foundation of commercial culture. Leaders with well-developed personal brands experience accelerated access, enhanced credibility, and greater strategic influence.

    Contrary to superficial self-promotion, effective personal branding represents strategic clarity. Salenbacher emphasizes that “Leadership visibility is no longer optional. It is strategic infrastructure.” As organizations navigate transformations driven by artificial intelligence, generational succession, and regional expansion, consistent leadership communication reduces uncertainty for teams, markets, and stakeholders.

    This evolution demands a new approach to sustainability—not environmental, but reputational. “A sustainable personal brand is built on coherence, clarity and long-term consistency,” Salenbacher notes. “It is not about being loud. It is about being aligned.” In high-growth economies, executives must demonstrate alignment between their stated values and decisions, between their communication style and character, and between their ambitions and tangible contributions.

    The personal branding movement parallels broader shifts in global brand strategy. Just as successful corporations have transitioned from rigid messaging to ecosystem thinking, leaders must move beyond traditional corporate communications. Salenbacher describes this new reality: “Strategy is no longer projection. It is presence… It is dialogue… It is cultural intelligence.” In multicultural hubs like Dubai, where diverse markets intersect, executives must communicate across contexts while maintaining distinctive identity.

    Personal branding also integrates directly with business networking, which remains particularly crucial in Gulf economies where relationships operate as functional currency. Robust professional networks “reduce friction, accelerate opportunity and amplify credibility,” according to Salenbacher, who emphasizes that genuine influence stems from contribution rather than extraction. While difficult to quantify precisely, the impact is systemic: “A strong personal brand does not just increase visibility. It increases leverage. And leverage drives growth.”

    As the Middle East positions itself as a global laboratory for next-generation leadership, personal branding emerges as an essential component of business competitiveness—built not on superficial image, but on authentic identity, earned trust, and sustained credibility.

  • US civil rights leader Jesse Jackson dies at 84, family says

    US civil rights leader Jesse Jackson dies at 84, family says

    Reverend Jesse Jackson, the towering figure of America’s civil rights movement and one of the nation’s most influential African American voices, passed away peacefully on Tuesday at age 84, according to a family announcement. The Baptist minister’s six-decade career spanned from marching alongside Martin Luther King Jr. to pioneering presidential politics that paved the way for the nation’s first Black president.

    The Jackson family confirmed his passing without disclosing the specific cause, though the reverend had publicly disclosed his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2017. Recent months had seen hospitalizations related to additional neurodegenerative conditions.

    In an emotional statement, Jackson’s family memorialized him as “a servant leader — not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world.” They urged supporters to “honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by” — justice, equality, and unconditional love.

    Jackson’s remarkable journey began in segregated Greenville, South Carolina, where he was born Jesse Louis Burns to a teenage mother in 1941. His self-described background — “I was not born with a silver spoon in my mouth. I had a shovel programmed for my hands” — fueled his determination to overcome racial barriers through education and activism.

    His civil rights career ignited in 1965 during the Selma-to-Montgomery marches, where he captured Dr. King’s attention. Jackson would later stand beside King during the tragic Memphis assassination in 1968. His activism evolved into political history-making when he became the most prominent Black presidential candidate until Barack Obama’s election, running twice for the Democratic nomination in the 1980s.

    President Obama acknowledged this legacy on social media: “We stood on his shoulders,” recognizing Jackson’s foundational role in making his own historic presidency possible.

    Beyond domestic activism, Jackson emerged as an international mediator, negotiating prisoner releases in Syria, Iraq, and Serbia while advocating against South African apartheid. He founded the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition in 1996, continuing his social justice work through political activism and organizational leadership.

    Political figures across the spectrum offered tributes, from President Donald Trump’s description of Jackson as “a force of nature” to Vice President Kamala Harris’s characterization of him as “one of America’s greatest patriots.” Former President Joe Biden remembered Jackson’s “determined and tenacious” spirit in the ongoing fight to “redeem the soul of our Nation.”

    Jackson’s presence marked pivotal moments in racial justice history — from weeping at Obama’s 2008 victory to standing with George Floyd’s family during the 2021 trial. He is survived by his wife and six children, leaving a legacy that forever altered America’s political and social landscape.