Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Gulf Crypto 2.0: How the GCC is shaping the future of digital asset regulation

    Gulf Crypto 2.0: How the GCC is shaping the future of digital asset regulation

    The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is fundamentally transforming its approach to digital assets, evolving from speculative trading environments toward sophisticated regulatory frameworks designed for institutional capital. This strategic pivot positions the region as a global leader in crypto governance rather than merely a market for retail trading activity.

    Regional transaction data underscores this transformation’s timing. According to Chainalysis, Middle East and North Africa crypto flows achieved unprecedented monthly volumes in late 2024, exceeding $60 billion in December alone. This substantial activity compelled GCC nations to choose between tolerating unregulated growth or establishing professionalized markets—with the UAE and Bahrain leading the professionalization charge.

    Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) exemplifies this new approach through comprehensive activity-based regulation. Rather than operating as a conventional crypto regulator, VARA functions as a market architect—establishing precise conditions for operational licensing, permitted activities, and firm behavior across supervision and enforcement domains. Two critical innovations distinguish VARA’s framework: comprehensive activity-based regulation matching large financial centers’ supervisory standards, and stringent marketing controls implemented in October 2024 to mitigate consumer risks associated with aggressive promotion.

    Bahrain complements Dubai’s scale with regulatory agility through its Central Bank (CBB) Regulatory Sandbox. This controlled environment enables fintech firms to test innovative solutions with defined oversight, creating a pipeline from experimentation to full licensing. Bahrain’s early adoption of formal crypto regulations in 2019 established the nation as a testbed jurisdiction where new models can be trialed, supervised, and scaled responsibly.

    The GCC’s regulatory advancement extends beyond exchange operations to encompass tokenization infrastructure and stablecoin frameworks. Abu Dhabi Global Market’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority finalized governance for Fiat-Referenced Tokens effective January 2026, while Qatar Financial Centre established legal recognition for digital assets including tokenization protocols and smart contracts in 2024.

    This collective regulatory development transforms the Gulf into what industry observers term a ‘crypto governance laboratory’—multiple jurisdictions developing parallel frameworks with complementary strengths. Dubai emphasizes supervisory depth, Bahrain accelerates controlled innovation, ADGM develops institutional structures, and Qatar codifies tokenization frameworks. Even Oman has moved to formalize supervision through VASP registration requirements.

    The fundamental shift involves recasting digital assets from speculative instruments to regulated financial infrastructure. This institutional framing attracts deeper capital pools—asset managers, corporate treasuries, and family offices—whose risk committees prioritize policy clarity over market excitement. While challenges remain regarding cross-jurisdictional coordination and enforcement consistency, the GCC’s unmistakable direction toward regulated digital asset infrastructure positions the region as a emerging global benchmark for institutional crypto adoption.

  • Flights to northern Ethiopia cancelled as fears mount of renewed conflict

    Flights to northern Ethiopia cancelled as fears mount of renewed conflict

    Ethiopian Airlines has abruptly suspended all passenger flights between Addis Ababa and cities in the northern Tigray region, citing “unplanned circumstances” in text messages to passengers. The suspension comes amid growing concerns about a potential return to conflict, with reports emerging of military clashes in contested territories.

    Airport staff in Mekelle, Tigray’s main city, confirmed the flight cancellations after receiving instructions not to report for work. The airline and Ethiopian government have remained silent beyond the initial cancellation notice, offering no further explanation for the sudden suspension of air services.

    The development occurs against a backdrop of deteriorating relations between the federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), with the 2022 Pretoria Peace Agreement showing signs of unraveling. Tensions have escalated particularly around disputed territories in western Tigray, where forces from the neighboring Amhara region maintain control over fertile lands claimed by both regions.

    Recent reports indicate clashes between federal forces and Tigrayan fighters in Mai Degusha, a contested area within Tselemti district. Additional military movements have been observed in southern Tigray, raising alarms about potential renewed hostilities.

    The situation is further complicated by the upcoming June elections, from which the TPLF has been excluded following the revocation of its political license. The party, which previously dominated Ethiopian politics for two decades, has experienced internal factionalization, adding complexity to an already volatile political landscape.

    While air travel remains suspended, ground transportation via buses continues to operate between Addis Ababa and Tigray, though these services may face disruptions following the flight suspensions. The African Union, which brokered the original peace agreement, has not yet commented on the latest developments.

    The Tigray conflict, which resulted in an estimated 600,000 fatalities and widespread human rights abuses, had previously displaced approximately one million people from western Tigray. These individuals remain in makeshift camps throughout the region, with their voting status in any potential referendum uncertain.

  • 11 dead in South Africa minibus and truck collision days after similar crash killed 14 children

    11 dead in South Africa minibus and truck collision days after similar crash killed 14 children

    South African authorities are confronting a severe road safety emergency following another catastrophic collision that resulted in multiple fatalities. On Thursday, a head-on impact between a minibus taxi and a truck near Durban in KwaZulu-Natal province claimed at least 11 lives, including one schoolchild, with several others sustaining critical injuries.

    According to provincial transport official Siboniso Duma, preliminary investigations suggest the truck driver attempted an illegal U-turn, leading to the direct collision. Garrith Jamieson of ALS Paramedics confirmed the devastating toll, noting that the minibus driver remained trapped within the wreckage during rescue operations.

    This tragedy occurs barely a week after another horrific crash involving a school transport minibus and truck near Johannesburg killed 14 children on January 19. The 22-year-old minibus driver from that incident faces upgraded murder charges after prosecutors alleged reckless overtaking maneuvers caused the fatal collision.

    Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has expressed profound concern over the escalating pattern of public transportation fatalities. She has mandated the Road Traffic Management Corporation to collaborate with local authorities and deliver a preliminary investigation report within 48 hours.

    Minibus taxis serve as primary transportation for approximately 70% of South African commuters. The nation’s road safety challenges reflect broader continental issues, with Africa experiencing disproportionately high traffic fatality rates despite minimal vehicle ownership. According to UN data, the continent records 26.6 road deaths per 100,000 people—significantly exceeding the global average of 18—accounting for approximately 300,000 annual fatalities despite representing only 3% of the world’s vehicle population.

  • US says aid will resume while Somali officials deny causing disruption leading to suspension

    US says aid will resume while Somali officials deny causing disruption leading to suspension

    NAIROBI, Kenya — The United States announced Wednesday the reinstatement of humanitarian assistance to Somalia’s federal government, following a temporary suspension triggered by allegations of aid operations disruption at Mogadishu’s primary port. The decision comes after American officials asserted that Somali authorities had acknowledged responsibility for incidents that compromised World Food Program (WFP) operations earlier this month.

    Despite Washington’s declaration that Somalia accepted accountability for the disturbance that led to halted aid distributions, the Somali government had not publicly confirmed this acknowledgment by Wednesday evening. Government officials remained silent when approached by The Associated Press for commentary on the development.

    The State Department’s Office of the Under Secretary for Foreign Assistance communicated through social media platform X that the United States would recommence WFP food distribution while maintaining a cautious approach toward broader assistance programs in the Horn of Africa nation. The statement emphasized the administration’s strict policy against “waste, theft, or diversion of U.S. resources.”

    The initial suspension on January 7 stemmed from claims that Somali officials demolished a U.S.-funded WFP warehouse and confiscated 75 metric tons of specialized nutritional supplies destined for malnourished children and pregnant women. While WFP confirmed the warehouse demolition, they later reported successful retrieval of the seized provisions without elaborating on recovery details.

    Somalia’s Foreign Ministry had previously rejected U.S. allegations, maintaining that port expansion activities did not compromise humanitarian aid custody or distribution mechanisms. The resumption timing for full aid deliveries remains uncertain, with WFP representatives not immediately responding to operational inquiries.

    This diplomatic episode occurs against the backdrop of heightened U.S. scrutiny toward Somali refugee and migrant communities, including fraud investigations involving childcare centers in Minnesota and intensified immigration restrictions affecting Somali nationals seeking U.S. entry or residency.

    Somalia continues to grapple with extreme poverty, prolonged civil unrest, and recurring natural disasters that have created one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, making international aid crucial for population survival.

  • Senegal boss Thiaw banned after Afcon final chaos

    Senegal boss Thiaw banned after Afcon final chaos

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed severe disciplinary measures following the tumultuous conclusion to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco. Senegal’s head coach Pape Thiaw faces a five-match suspension and a substantial $100,000 fine for what governing bodies have deemed “unsporting conduct” and actions “bringing the game into disrepute.”

    The championship match in Rabat, ultimately secured by Senegal 1-0 in extra time, descended into chaos during stoppage time when Thiaw instructed his players to leave the field. This unprecedented move came in protest of a penalty awarded to Morocco, shortly after officials had disallowed a Senegalese goal for a foul on Moroccan captain Achraf Hakimi.

    The 17-minute interruption threatened to overshadow the sporting spectacle before Senegal forward Sadio Mane successfully persuaded his teammates to resume play. The dramatic conclusion saw Moroccan midfielder Brahim Diaz’s ‘Panenka’ penalty saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, immediately followed by the final whistle that sent the match into extra time, where Pape Gueye secured victory for Senegal.

    Additional sanctions have been levied against multiple players from both finalists. Senegal forwards Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr received two-match bans for misconduct toward match officials, while Morocco’s Ismael Saibari was handed a three-game suspension. Defender Achraf Hakimi received a two-match ban, with one game suspended for twelve months. The Senegal Football Federation also faces a significant $615,000 fine.

    These suspensions will apply exclusively to CAF-sanctioned matches, ensuring neither team’s preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America will be affected by these disciplinary actions.

  • Heavy gunfire and blasts heard near airport in Niger’s capital

    Heavy gunfire and blasts heard near airport in Niger’s capital

    Niamey, Niger – Heavy gunfire and powerful explosions rocked the vicinity of Diori Hamani International Airport in Niger’s capital during the early hours of Thursday, with air defense systems reportedly engaging unidentified projectiles. The sustained attack near the strategic aviation hub created panic among residents before subsiding approximately two hours after commencement.

    Multiple eyewitness accounts and verified video footage depicted anti-aircraft systems intercepting incoming threats in the night sky, though the origin and nature of the projectiles remain unconfirmed. While official casualty figures and damage assessments are pending, government sources indicate the situation has been stabilized without providing specific details.

    The airport complex, located merely 10 kilometers from the presidential palace, houses critical military infrastructure including an air force base. This incident occurs amid heightened tensions surrounding a substantial uranium shipment currently stranded at the facility due to ongoing legal and diplomatic disputes with France.

    A Foreign Affairs ministry official, speaking to Anadolu news agency on condition of anonymity, stated: ‘The situation is under control. There is no need to worry,’ while acknowledging investigations are underway to determine potential connections between the attack and the contested uranium cargo.

    This security breach unfolds under the military governance of General Abdourahamane Tiani, who assumed power through a 2023 coup that deposed the democratically elected government. Niger continues to confront significant security challenges, including jihadist insurgencies affecting the broader Sahel region alongside neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso.

  • US Fed holds interest rates, defies Trump tantrums

    US Fed holds interest rates, defies Trump tantrums

    In a decisive move demonstrating institutional independence, the U.S. Federal Reserve maintained its benchmark interest rates unchanged during Wednesday’s policy meeting, keeping the target range for the federal funds rate at 3.50% to 3.75%. This decision comes despite mounting pressure from President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly advocated for more aggressive monetary easing.

    The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) justified its position by pointing to sustained economic stability and persistently low unemployment figures that indicate a resilient economy requiring no immediate intervention. This marks a significant departure from the central bank’s recent trend of monetary accommodation, having implemented rate reductions during each of its previous three policy meetings amid concerns about a cooling labor market.

    Analysts interpret this steady-handed approach as evidence of the Fed’s commitment to data-driven decision-making rather than political considerations. The decision reflects confidence in current economic conditions and suggests policymakers see no imminent threats to the ongoing expansion that would warrant additional stimulus measures.

    The move highlights the ongoing tension between the executive branch and the independent Federal Reserve, illustrating the institution’s willingness to maintain its traditional separation from political influence despite unprecedented public criticism from the White House.

  • ADQ inaugurates refurbished basketball court at Khalifa University

    ADQ inaugurates refurbished basketball court at Khalifa University

    In a significant move to bolster community sports infrastructure, Abu Dhabi’s strategic investment entity ADQ has officially unveiled a comprehensively refurbished basketball facility at Khalifa University. This inauguration marks the latest development within its expanding collaborative framework with the National Basketball Association (NBA).

    The project represents a core component of ADQ’s broader commitment to enhancing social infrastructure as a fundamental pillar of sustainable, long-term development for the Emirate. The initiative focuses on creating and upgrading high-caliber sports venues that function as communal hubs, actively promoting physical wellbeing, social cohesion, and inclusive community engagement.

    By improving accessibility to premium athletic facilities and actively encouraging participation in sports and active lifestyles, these projects deliver multifaceted benefits. They are strategically designed to support population health, foster meaningful social interaction, and strengthen community bonds, thereby contributing to the foundation of more resilient and prosperous societies across Abu Dhabi.

    This newly inaugurated court at Khalifa University constitutes the next major milestone in a series of refurbishment projects undertaken by the ADQ-NBA alliance, following previous enhancements at Zayed Sports City and Capital Garden. Collectively, these facilities are establishing a growing network of community assets aimed at engaging youth demographics and families, with the ultimate objective of inspiring greater participation in athletic pursuits and fostering a vibrant sporting culture.

  • Daiso Japan unveils Haq Al Laila collection and its largest Ramadan range in the UAE

    Daiso Japan unveils Haq Al Laila collection and its largest Ramadan range in the UAE

    Daiso Japan has unveiled its most extensive seasonal offerings to date in the United Arab Emirates with the introduction of two distinctive collections timed for traditional celebrations. The retail chain’s new Haq Al Laila collection specifically targets younger celebrants with creatively designed items that blend cultural elements with child-friendly aesthetics.

    The children-focused assortment features jute bags, baskets, and decorative containers in vibrant colors and playful shapes, providing youngsters with festive vessels for sweet collection during the Haq Al Laila observance. These purpose-designed products aim to enhance family participation in cultural traditions through affordable and engaging accessories.

    Concurrently, Daiso Japan has launched its largest Ramadan collection in the UAE market, significantly expanding its range of decorative and functional items for the holy month. The comprehensive selection includes various-sized lanterns, decorative lighting solutions, soft furnishings, and specially designed Ramadan advent calendars that help families mark daily traditions.

    This year’s Ramadan presentation introduces several innovative products, including mosque-shaped display stands, wooden decorations with integrated lighting elements, and intricate arabesque-patterned décor inspired by traditional Islamic art. These statement pieces blend cultural authenticity with contemporary design sensibilities, suitable for both home decoration and gift presentation.

    The collection also addresses entertainment needs with complete table-setting solutions comprising coordinated tablecloths, servingware, cups, and complementary decorative items. Additional hanging decorations provide comprehensive options for transforming living spaces into festive environments suitable for Ramadan gatherings.

    Both collections are now available across all Daiso Japan retail locations in the UAE, representing the company’s continued expansion of culturally relevant product offerings in the Middle Eastern market. The retailer has directed consumers to its Instagram channel @daiso_japan_uae for ongoing updates and product information.

  • ‘There’s movies, and then there’s cinema’: Jason Momoa on ‘Dune’, TV and life in Dubai

    ‘There’s movies, and then there’s cinema’: Jason Momoa on ‘Dune’, TV and life in Dubai

    Perched seventy-one floors above Dubai Marina at Ciel Dubai, the world’s tallest hotel, Jason Momoa engaged in a remarkably transparent dialogue about his artistic philosophy, current projects, and personal perspectives. Despite recently undergoing surgery—evidenced by his occasional use of an ice pack on his elbow—the actor remained characteristically calm and introspective throughout the exchange.

    Momoa established an immediate rapport by recognizing a film still on the interviewer’s phone, setting the stage for a conversation that transcended typical celebrity interviews. When questioned about his approach to chaotic situations—dubbed ‘the Momoa way’—he revealed a methodical perspective shaped by his lifeguard background. ‘Everything kind of slows down,’ he explained. ‘When things like an earthquake happen, you slow down and assess the situation. Really see where your exits are.’ His primary concern in any crisis remains fundamentally human: ensuring people’s safety above all else.

    The discussion turned to artistic distinctions between different visual media, with Momoa drawing a clear separation between ‘movies’ and ‘cinema.’ He positioned Denis Villeneuve’s ‘Dune,’ in which he portrays swordmaster Duncan Idaho, firmly in the latter category. ‘Dune is cinema because it’s taken sci-fi to a level that’s kind of never been done,’ Momoa stated, emphasizing the film’s groundbreaking approach to the genre.

    Regarding television, the actor highlighted the unique depth offered by longer narrative formats. ‘You’re playing a character not just for two hours, you’re playing it for twenty hours or numerous seasons,’ he noted, specifically referencing his Apple TV+ series ‘Chief of War’ as benefiting from the expanded storytelling canvas that television provides.

    Momoa contrasted these scripted performances with the vulnerability of appearing as himself in documentary-style productions. ‘I have my own shows where it’s just me doing the things I love, which is actually kind of scarier,’ he admitted. ‘I’m not playing Drogo. I’m not playing Dante. I’m just being me.’

    The actor also discussed his latest project, ‘The Wrecking Crew,’ which reunites him with Dave Bautista—but this time as brothers rather than adversaries. ‘We’re good buddies,’ Momoa revealed. ‘We’ve played enemies before, but he plays my brother in this.’ He described the film as a modern comedy that offered a welcome departure from the physical demands of his previous collaborations with Bautista.

    Regarding his Dubai visit, which included a live musical performance featuring rock and metal selections, Momoa expressed particular admiration for the city’s dramatic vistas. Gesturing toward the panoramic view from the hotel, he remarked, ‘It’s kind of an honor just to be out this far.’ He specifically cited the view from SUSHISAMBA at Palm Jumeirah as ‘one of the most epic views I’ve ever seen.’

    When asked about his personal aspirations in Dubai, Momoa mentioned desires to skydive and particularly to experience the city from the water. ‘I’d love to be on a boat… see it from the sea,’ he said, reinforcing his well-documented connection to aquatic environments.

    The actor concluded with a thoughtful reflection on cigar appreciation, acknowledging his personal enjoyment while consciously avoiding encouragement of smoking. When pressed on which cultural figure he would most like to share a cigar with, he immediately nominated musician Tom Waits—provided the artist still partook.