Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • At least 6,000 killed over 3 days during RSF attack on Sudan’s el-Fasher, UN says

    At least 6,000 killed over 3 days during RSF attack on Sudan’s el-Fasher, UN says

    A comprehensive United Nations investigation has exposed systematic atrocities committed by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during their October offensive in el-Fasher, Darfur, with documented evidence pointing to widespread war crimes and potential crimes against humanity.

    The UN Human Rights Office’s 29-page report, released Friday, reveals that over 6,000 civilians were killed during a three-day period of ‘intense violence shocking in its scale and brutality’ between October 25-27. The paramilitary group and their allied Arab militias, known as Janjaweed, overran el-Fasher—the Sudanese army’s final stronghold in Darfur—on October 26 after an 18-month siege.

    UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, who recently visited Sudan, stated the offensive demonstrated ‘reasonable grounds’ for war crimes charges, noting that ‘persistent impunity fuels continued cycles of violence.’ The documented violations include mass killings, summary executions, sexual violence, abductions for ransom, torture, and enforced disappearances, many targeting the African Zaghawa non-Arab tribes.

    The investigation, based on 140 victim and witness testimonies corroborated by satellite imagery and video footage, describes particularly horrific incidents. On October 26, RSF fighters opened fire with heavy weapons on approximately 1,000 people sheltering at Rashid dormitory in el-Fasher University, killing around 500. Witnesses described bodies being thrown into the air ‘like a scene out of a horror movie.’ That same day, some 600 people, including 50 children, were executed while seeking refuge in university facilities.

    The actual death toll is believed to be ‘significantly higher,’ with additional massacres documented at the Saudi Maternity hospital (460 killed) and Abu Shouk displacement camp (300 killed). The report further details systematic sexual violence ‘used as a weapon of war’ against women and girls, plus the operation of at least 10 detention facilities—including a converted children’s hospital—where thousands remain missing.

    The RSF, whose commander General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo has previously acknowledged some abuses while disputing their scale, did not respond to requests for comment. The conflict, which began in April 2023 as a power struggle between the RSF and Sudanese military, has created the world’s largest humanitarian crisis with famine conditions emerging across parts of Sudan.

  • Dubai’s RTA supports nearly 1.2 million residents in community initiatives in 2025

    Dubai’s RTA supports nearly 1.2 million residents in community initiatives in 2025

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has demonstrated exceptional commitment to social welfare through its extensive community engagement programs, reaching an impressive 1,192,320 beneficiaries throughout 2025. This remarkable achievement underscores the authority’s strategic focus on fostering social cohesion and promoting a culture of volunteerism across the emirate.

    The comprehensive outreach encompassed 50 distinct community programs, including 19 collaborative government campaigns specifically designed to support vulnerable demographic groups. These initiatives provided targeted assistance to low-income families, construction workers, People of Determination, and students from various socioeconomic backgrounds.

    Employee participation played a crucial role in this success story, with 599 RTA staff members dedicating their time and expertise across 17 different initiatives and events. This substantial internal engagement transformed the transportation authority into an active community partner rather than merely a regulatory body.

    The RTA’s programs were meticulously crafted according to international best practices, ensuring sustainable long-term impact while aligning perfectly with the UAE’s national ‘Year of the Community’ campaign objectives. The ‘Hand in Hand’ slogan embodied the collaborative spirit that characterized these efforts throughout the year.

    During Ramadan 2025, the RTA launched several high-impact initiatives that delivered substantial benefits to thousands of residents. The ‘Meals on Wheels’ campaign provided nourishment to 8,000 workers, while a strategic partnership with Noon resulted in the distribution of iftar meals to 5,000 individuals at metro stations. The Ramadan Rations initiative, timed to coincide with Zayed Humanitarian Day, supported 1,000 low-income families with essential supplies.

    Additional collaborative efforts included a Ramadan Tent organized with Dubai Charity Association that hosted 500 beneficiaries, along with specialized support for orphans and Eid Al Adha voucher distributions. Volunteer engagement reached significant levels with 241 participants involved in meal preparation and distribution activities, while six community campaigns were conducted in partnership with the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department across strategic locations including Warsan, marine transport stations, and worker accommodations.

    The RTA also demonstrated strong commitment to inclusivity through participation in the AccessAbilities Expo, organization of introductory Dubai Metro trips, and support for specialized summer programs tailored for People of Determination. The authority further recognized the vital contributions of workers through the Workers’ Gifts initiative, which honored 300 individuals for their role in supporting Dubai’s ongoing development.

  • 39th AU Summit opens in Addis Ababa with focus on water security, development

    39th AU Summit opens in Addis Ababa with focus on water security, development

    ADDIS ABABA — The African Union Headquarters in Ethiopia’s capital became the epicenter of continental diplomacy as the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government commenced on Saturday. This pivotal gathering, spanning two days, has drawn leadership from across the African continent to deliberate on critical regional challenges and opportunities.

    The summit’s proceedings are guided by the Union’s thematic focus for 2026: ‘Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.’ This theme establishes water security and sanitation infrastructure as fundamental prerequisites for realizing Africa’s long-term developmental blueprint.

    Beyond hydrological concerns, the agenda encompasses comprehensive deliberations on peacebuilding, political stabilization, economic advancement, and regional integration frameworks. Delegates are further examining strategies to enhance Africa’s collective influence within global governance architectures and strengthen multilateral cooperation mechanisms.

    The inaugural ceremony witnessed the participation of numerous heads of state and government, accompanied by representatives from prominent international organizations. Notable attendees included Chairperson of the AU Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, signaling the importance of intercontinental partnerships in addressing Africa’s developmental priorities.

  • Why moon-sighting with telescopes on Feb 17 may be ‘dangerous’: UAE experts

    Why moon-sighting with telescopes on Feb 17 may be ‘dangerous’: UAE experts

    Astronomical authorities in the United Arab Emirates have issued an urgent safety advisory regarding potentially hazardous moon observation attempts scheduled for February 17, 2026. The International Astronomy Centre based in Abu Dhabi has emphasized that attempting to view the crescent moon through optical instruments on this date poses severe risks of permanent eye damage, including potential blindness.

    The danger stems from an unusual celestial alignment occurring that Tuesday. A solar eclipse earlier in the day will result in the moon maintaining extreme proximity to the sun by sunset—the traditional time for crescent sighting committees worldwide to attempt observations. In Riyadh, the angular separation between the moon and sun will measure merely one degree at sunset.

    Khadijah Al Hariri, Operations Manager at Dubai Astronomy Group, explained the critical safety concerns: “Even though the eclipse occurs earlier, by sunset when people typically search for the crescent, the moon remains dangerously close to the sun. Directing telescopes toward the crescent’s position means the sun will either be within the instrument’s field of view or immediately adjacent to it.”

    The scientific community notes that angular separation measurements occur between the centers of the sun and moon disks, meaning the actual crescent distance from the sun’s disk would be approximately half a degree. This proximity creates unacceptable risks for both observational equipment and human vision without professional-grade solar filters and safety protocols.

    Beyond the safety implications, astronomers have declared public observation attempts astronomically impractical. The IAC stated that even if observers wait for the sun’s disk to fully set before beginning observations, the moon’s lower edge will have naturally set by that time, leaving no crescent visible.

    The advisory specifically warns against using telescopes, binoculars, or any optical instruments without certified solar filters. Professional observatories follow internationally recognized safety standards using specialized equipment that amateur observers typically lack.

    Several Gulf countries, including Oman, have already announced official Ramadan start dates in advance, citing both practical observation challenges and their commitment to scientific certainty rather than potentially contradictory visual reports. The IAC clarified that while they provide scientific awareness, they are not the authority responsible for official crescent sighting declarations or lunar month determinations.

  • Planned US-funded baby vaccine trial in Guinea-Bissau blasted by WHO

    Planned US-funded baby vaccine trial in Guinea-Bissau blasted by WHO

    The World Health Organization has issued a strong condemnation of a controversial hepatitis B vaccine study in Guinea-Bissau that was abruptly halted following public outcry. The $1.6 million trial, funded by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and led by Danish researchers, proposed to delay vaccination for approximately 14,000 newborns until six weeks of age rather than administering the standard birth-dose vaccine.

    WHO officials expressed ‘significant concerns’ regarding the study’s scientific justification and ethical safeguards, describing the proposed methodology as fundamentally unethical. The organization emphasized that the hepatitis B vaccine has demonstrated effectiveness over three decades of use across 115 countries, with birth-dose administration preventing mother-to-child transmission in 70-95% of cases.

    The controversial study gained particular attention due to its connection with US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has repeatedly questioned vaccine efficacy despite claiming personal vaccination adherence. Kennedy had previously replaced all members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices with vaccine-critical appointees, who subsequently voted to stop recommending universal hepatitis B vaccination for American newborns.

    Guinean authorities suspended the trial following substantial domestic opposition, including from former health minister Magda Robalo who declared ‘Guinea-Bissauans are not guinea pigs.’ The West African nation suffers from exceptionally high hepatitis B prevalence, with WHO estimates indicating over 12% of adults carry chronic infection and some studies suggesting rates as high as 20%.

    The WHO maintains that birth-dose vaccination represents an essential public health intervention that prevents potentially irreversible harm. The organization argues that placebo-controlled trials are only ethically acceptable when no proven treatment exists, which is not the case for hepatitis B prevention. Guinea-Bissau currently administers the vaccine at six weeks but plans nationwide birth-dose implementation by 2028, a transition the WHO has pledged to accelerate.

  • UAE residents turn living rooms into mini stadiums for India-Pakistan match on Feb 15

    UAE residents turn living rooms into mini stadiums for India-Pakistan match on Feb 15

    Across the United Arab Emirates, residents are converting their homes into vibrant cricket viewing venues ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated T20 World Cup clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in Colombo. While some dedicated fans have traveled to Sri Lanka for the live event, countless others are preparing their living spaces for communal screenings that capture the electric atmosphere of stadium viewing.

    In Dubai and Sharjah particularly, households are undergoing elaborate transformations with large-screen installations, decorative arrangements, and culinary preparations. The event has transcended ordinary cricket viewing, evolving into a significant social occasion that brings together diverse communities. Invitations have circulated days in advance, grocery lists have been meticulously planned, and technical equipment is being rigorously tested to ensure flawless viewing experiences.

    Anis Sajan, founder of Mr Cricket UAE, has established a tradition of hosting these screenings during major tournaments. “Cricket remains a gentleman’s game that builds bridges rather than walls,” Sajan remarked. “The India-Pakistan encounter represents more than mere competition—it embodies deep emotion. We’re recreating the stadium experience with DJ entertainment, traditional dhol drummers, and spirited fan engagement.”

    The gatherings feature potluck-style dinners where participants contribute national dishes ranging from biryanis and kebabs to various snacks and desserts. Nadeem Ahmed, a Pakistani expatriate in Arabian Ranches, described his preparations: “We’ve converted our lawn into a mini-stadium with large screens and arranged seating tables. A barbecue station will operate throughout the evening, and we’ve created separate areas for children to enjoy themselves while learning about cricket’s cultural significance.”

    Parents emphasize the educational value for children growing up in the UAE’s multicultural environment. Youngsters witness both the competitive rivalry on screen and the respectful camaraderie among adults from both nations. Despite the geographical distance from Colombo, the excitement within UAE homes promises to match stadium intensity, with enthusiastic cheers for wickets and good-natured banter following boundary shots.

    For the UAE’s diverse population, this cricketing event symbolizes how athletic competition can foster cross-cultural friendship and mutual respect, reflecting the tolerance that defines Emirati society.

  • Ramadan 2026: Karama’s street food festival back with 100 restaurants, Dh5 dishes

    Ramadan 2026: Karama’s street food festival back with 100 restaurants, Dh5 dishes

    Dubai’s Sheikh Hamdan Colony in Karama is set to undergo a remarkable transformation during Ramadan 2026, evolving into an expansive open-air culinary destination for the fourth annual Ramadan Street Food Festival. Scheduled from February 19 to March 18, this beloved community event promises an enhanced experience with unprecedented scale and diversity.

    The festival will unfold across two distinct zones—Flavour Lane and Culinary Crossroads at Karama Park—connected by an immersive food trail that invites exploration. This year’s edition introduces several innovative elements including communal long-table iftars, mobile entertainment units, and a dedicated carnival zone designed for family enjoyment. Organizers anticipate welcoming over 70,000 visitors throughout the holy month.

    Accessibility remains central to the festival’s ethos, with free admission and dishes starting at just Dh5. The culinary offerings span global street food traditions, featuring everything from aromatic biryanis and savory beef tapioca to fresh samosas, pickled mangoes, passionfruit juices, and traditional Sulaimani tea.

    The event will operate in two distinct phases: initial restaurant decorations from February 19-28, followed by a full carnival activation from March 1 featuring live musicians, LED stilt walkers, and main stage programming. Evening performances will include MC-led storytelling, children’s entertainment, and cultural music from 9:15 PM until 11:00 PM on weekends.

    A highlight of this year’s programming includes 18 community iftar gatherings with capacity for 150 participants each, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional Friday long-table dinners will encourage intercultural dialogue and community bonding among residents and visitors.

    Cultural immersion continues with roaming artisans practicing Arabic calligraphy, henna application, and live caricature drawing from March 1 onward. Between 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM nightly, the festival grounds will come alive with tanoura dancers, jugglers, mascots, and human statues moving through the crowds.

    The festival forms part of the broader ‘Ramadan in Dubai’ program under the ‘Season of Wulfa’ initiative, which coordinates cultural experiences across the emirate including Ramadan by the Bay, Ramadan Reflections, and Hai Ramadan at Expo City Dubai. These citywide activations collectively create an atmosphere of reflection, connection, and cultural celebration throughout the holy month.

  • UAE weather: Fog alert issued; lowest temperature 9°C

    UAE weather: Fog alert issued; lowest temperature 9°C

    Meteorological authorities in the United Arab Emirates have issued a weather advisory warning residents of reduced visibility conditions due to fog formation across coastal regions. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) forecasts generally fair weather with intermittent cloud cover for Saturday, February 14th, though atmospheric conditions will create challenging visibility scenarios from Friday evening through Saturday morning.

    The humidity levels are anticipated to increase significantly during nighttime and Sunday morning, creating optimal conditions for mist and fog development, particularly along coastal areas. Interior regions will experience humidity fluctuations ranging from 10-30% minimum to 65-80% maximum throughout the day.

    Temperature variations across the Emirates will be considerable, with internal areas experiencing lows of 9°C and highs reaching 34°C. Major urban centers will see more moderate conditions: Dubai ranging between 20°C and 30°C, Abu Dhabi between 18°C and 32°C, and Sharjah between 15°C and 31°C.

    Wind patterns will remain light to moderate throughout the day, blowing from southeasterly to northeasterly directions at speeds of 10-20 km/h, occasionally reaching 30 km/h. Maritime conditions in both the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea are expected to remain calm with slight waves.

    The previous day’s maximum temperature of 33.9°C was recorded in Barakah 2, located in the Al Dhafra Region, at approximately 1:30 pm on Friday. Meteorological officials continue to monitor conditions closely and advise residents to exercise caution during reduced visibility periods.

  • Nigerian rock artist wants people to pause and feel loved in the hustle and bustle of Lagos

    Nigerian rock artist wants people to pause and feel loved in the hustle and bustle of Lagos

    In the bustling metropolis of Lagos, Nigeria, where economic pressures dominate daily life, a local rock musician is redefining Valentine’s Day traditions through spontaneous acts of musical kindness. Bianca Okorocha, professionally known as Clayrocksu, has taken to the city’s vibrant streets to deliver impromptu serenades and distribute single-stem roses to unsuspecting commuters.

    The initiative emerges against a backdrop of significant economic challenges following President Bola Tinubu’s 2023 reforms, which included eliminating long-standing fuel subsidies. While intended to stimulate investment, these measures have triggered one of Nigeria’s most severe cost-of-living crises in decades. Compounding these difficulties, ongoing security issues in northern regions have disrupted agricultural production, causing price surges that ripple across the nation, including its economic capital.

    Clayrocksu’s street performances create moments of unexpected delight in an environment where Valentine’s Day typically receives limited attention. As she strums her guitar through renditions of classics like James Blunt’s “You’re Beautiful,” initial astonishment transforms into beaming smiles among recipients. The musician explicitly aims to broaden Valentine’s conventions beyond romantic partnerships, promoting inclusive celebrations of affection.

    Barbara Lulu, one beneficiary of the musical surprise, described the encounter as a stress-interrupting delight during her demanding day. Clayrocksu emphasizes that her project addresses contemporary needs for positive experiences amid overwhelming negative news cycles, using music’s universal language to foster connection and emotional relief during challenging times.

  • What we can learn from lovebirds, the rare birds that mate for life

    What we can learn from lovebirds, the rare birds that mate for life

    PHOENIX — An extraordinary avian phenomenon has taken root in the heart of Arizona’s capital, where vibrant green flashes streak across the sky accompanied by distinctive chattering calls. The metropolitan area now hosts North America’s largest established colony of rosy-faced lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis) outside their native southwestern African habitat, with approximately 2,000 of these resilient parrots adapting remarkably to urban desert living.

    Originating from the arid Namib Desert spanning Angola, Namibia and South Africa, these non-native birds descended from escaped or released pets first documented in Phoenix during the 1980s. According to Robert Carter of the Maricopa Bird Alliance, while their precise colonization history remains uncertain, the population has demonstrated extraordinary ecological plasticity by thriving in an environment characterized by extreme summer temperatures that regularly exceed 100°F (38°C).

    The lovebirds employ ingenious survival strategies including nesting in cactus cavities and palm tree crevices while strategically positioning themselves near air conditioning exhaust vents during peak heat periods—particularly noticeable at Arizona State University’s science building. Their behavioral adaptations extend beyond temperature management to sophisticated social structures characterized by lifelong pair bonding.

    Ornithological experts including Kenn Kaufman, field editor for Audubon magazine, note that while smaller populations exist in Hawaii’s Big Island and Maui, plus a Fischer’s lovebird colony in southern Portugal, Phoenix’s colony represents the most significant established population beyond Africa. These observations provide valuable insights into avian adaptation mechanisms and the ecological implications of introduced species.

    The species’ common name derives from their exceptional pair-bonding behaviors, which include continuous mutual preening—especially of hard-to-reach feathers—and lifelong food-sharing between mates. Dr. Stephanie Lamb, avian specialist at the Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital, notes that lovebirds demonstrate measurable distress when separated from partners, including reduced activity and altered vocalizations.

    Their affectionate displays include beak-to-beak food transfer resembling human kissing (though involving regurgitation), and despite occasional conflicts requiring temporary separation, they consistently reunite through reconciliation behaviors. With lifespans approaching two decades, these resilient birds offer scientists ongoing opportunities to study tropical species adaptation to desert environments alongside their complex social dynamics.