In a dramatic turn of events, soldiers in Guinea-Bissau have announced the seizure of power, as reported on state television. This development follows reports of gunfire near the presidential palace on Wednesday, just three days after national elections were held. Dinis N’Tchama, spokesperson for the country’s military high command, declared in a statement that the High Military Command has decided to depose the President of the Republic and suspend all institutions of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. The military cited the discovery of an ongoing plan aimed at destabilizing the country, alleging that both domestic and foreign nationals attempted to manipulate electoral results to implement this plan. As part of their measures, the soldiers have immediately suspended the current electoral process, halted media activities, and closed all borders. The presidential and legislative elections, held on Sunday, saw incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and opposition candidate Fernando Dias da Costa each claiming victory on Tuesday, despite official provisional results not being expected until Thursday. Guinea-Bissau, a West African nation with a history of political instability, has experienced four coups and numerous attempted ones since gaining independence, including a reported attempt last month. The situation remains tense as gunfire was heard near the presidential palace in the capital, and roads leading to the palace were closed off, with checkpoints manned by heavily armed and masked soldiers.
标签： Africa
非洲
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Epson strengthens its regional footprint with innovation, sustainability and sector-focused growth
Epson, a global leader in printing and projection technologies, is intensifying its focus on the Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central and West Asia (META-CWA), positioning the region as a cornerstone of its growth strategy. In an interview with Khaleej Times, Junkichi Yoshida, President and CEO of Epson Seiko Corporation, emphasized the company’s alignment with regional demands in education, public services, and digital transformation. Yoshida highlighted that the region is not a secondary market but a priority area where innovation and growth converge with Epson’s long-term ambitions.
Epson’s partnerships in education reflect its commitment to delivering energy-efficient, reliable solutions that support national digital learning initiatives. In the public sector, the company’s high-volume printers and advanced document scanners are integral to digitizing government workflows, reducing operational costs, and transitioning from paper-based processes to integrated digital systems. Beyond traditional sectors, Epson’s technology powers large-scale digital immersive experiences, showcasing its engineering precision and reliability.
Sustainability remains a core pillar of Epson’s strategy. The company’s Environmental Vision 2050 aims for carbon-negative operations and eliminating dependence on underground resources by 2050. Epson has already achieved 100% renewable electricity across all its global sites. Its Heat-Free Micro Piezo printing technology reduces electricity consumption by up to 90%, while the EcoTank line minimizes waste by replacing traditional ink cartridges with long-lasting ink bottles.
In industrial and commercial printing, Epson’s dry fiber and digital textile printing solutions address environmental challenges like wastewater in garment production. The company is also investing in AI-assisted technology to optimize workflows and reduce operational complexity. Epson’s newly established Innovation Centre in the Middle East serves as a hub for showcasing its latest technologies and gathering feedback for R&D.
As Epson approaches the final year of its “Epson 25 Renewed” plan, the company is preparing for its next long-term vision cycle, focusing on sustainability, operational resilience, and technological advancement. With the Middle East and Africa identified as key growth markets, Epson is committed to delivering efficient, sustainable technologies that align with the region’s digital transformation goals.
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New Year’s Eve in Dubai: Best spots to watch Burj Khalifa fireworks for free
Dubai’s iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Burj Khalifa are set to dazzle once again, offering both free and paid viewing options for visitors. While Burj Park remains the only ticketed venue at Dh997.50 per adult, numerous free public viewing zones around Downtown Dubai ensure everyone can enjoy the festivities without breaking the bank. Public areas along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard and surrounding streets will provide first-come-first-served access to the fireworks, light shows, and multi-point productions. LED screens will broadcast the event for those unable to secure a front-row spot. Gates to these free zones will close once capacity is reached, so early arrival is recommended. Road closures typically begin between 3pm and 4pm, with parking available on a first-come basis until then. The Dubai Metro and Tram will operate extended hours, while RTA shuttle buses will facilitate crowd movement. For those opting for the paid experience, Burj Park offers guaranteed front-row views, Bollywood-themed entertainment, food stalls, and kids’ workshops. Badges for Burj Park must be collected between December 26 and December 30. Families with strollers are advised to use Gate 2 for entry. Guests of EMAAR hotels and Dubai Mall restaurants will receive access badges for prime viewing areas. Prohibited items include weapons, alcohol, drones, and outside food in Burj Park. Post-midnight, roads will reopen gradually, and shuttle services will resume for badge holders. This year’s event promises to be a grand celebration of lights, music, and fireworks, blending tradition with innovation.
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‘My world, my rock’: Billionaire Richard Branson mourns wife’s death in heartfelt post
Renowned billionaire and Virgin Group founder Richard Branson has publicly mourned the passing of his beloved wife, Joan Templeman, in a deeply emotional Instagram post. Joan, who was 80 years old, had been Branson’s life partner for 50 years, and her death has left a profound void in his life. In his heartfelt tribute, the 75-year-old entrepreneur described Joan as ‘the most wonderful mum and grandmum,’ his ‘best friend, rock, guiding light, and world.’ The post was accompanied by a touching photograph of Joan, capturing the essence of their enduring love. The couple first met in 1976 when Joan was working in an antique shop, and Branson famously referred to their encounter as ‘love at first sight.’ Their relationship blossomed over the years, culminating in a 1989 wedding ceremony on Necker Island, a private island Branson purchased partly to impress her. The news of Joan’s passing has drawn an outpouring of condolences from celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez and Natalie Imbruglia, who praised Joan’s warmth and kindness. Branson’s tribute serves as a poignant reminder of their remarkable bond and the legacy she leaves behind.
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China’s support for development hailed
Senior South African officials have lauded China’s significant contributions to the development of South Africa and the Global South, emphasizing the importance of their partnership in addressing critical challenges. Speaking at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, David Masondo, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Finance, highlighted China’s constructive role in areas such as infrastructure, finance, trade, and climate change. He noted that China’s zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries has strengthened economic ties and facilitated inclusive growth amid global trade protectionism. China has been Africa’s largest trade partner for 16 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching $296 billion in 2024, a 4.8% increase from the previous year. Additionally, China is South Africa’s top trade partner, with trade totaling $25 billion in the first half of 2025. Masondo also commended China’s efforts in promoting multilateralism, particularly in tackling global issues like climate change. Chrispin Phiri, spokesman for South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, expressed interest in collaborating with China to enhance South Africa’s manufacturing capabilities, especially in electric vehicles. Vincent Magwenya, spokesman for the South African president, described the bilateral relationship as ‘excellent’ and highlighted alignment on key issues, including those central to South Africa’s G20 presidency. The officials’ remarks coincided with the adoption of a G20 declaration emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change, advancing sustainable development, and reforming global financial systems for fairer growth.
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India suffer heaviest defeat as SA complete series sweep
South Africa delivered a historic performance in Guwahati, securing a commanding 408-run victory over India in the second Test. This triumph marked their first series win in India since 2000 and completed a 2-0 series sweep. The Proteas, led by captain Temba Bavuma, have now won 11 of their last 12 Tests, solidifying their status as a dominant force in Test cricket. The victory also propelled them to second place in the World Test Championship standings, while India dropped to fifth. South Africa’s spinners, particularly Simon Harmer, who claimed six wickets, played a pivotal role in dismantling India’s batting lineup. Ravindra Jadeja’s resilient 54 was the only notable resistance from the hosts. The defeat marks India’s second home series loss in two years, raising concerns about their Test cricket strategy under head coach Gautam Gambhir. Critics, including former players and commentators, have questioned India’s tactics and player readiness, with Venkatesh Prasad labeling their approach as ‘rank poor tactics.’ India’s next Test series is scheduled for August 2025 in Sri Lanka, followed by the T20 World Cup in February 2026, co-hosted with Sri Lanka.
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Twenty-four Nigerian schoolgirls released over a week after abduction
In a significant development, 24 Nigerian schoolgirls abducted from the Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) in Kebbi State on November 17 have been released, according to President Bola Tinubu. The armed assailants who stormed the school killed one staff member and initially took 25 students, one of whom managed to escape shortly after the incident. While the president lauded the security forces for their “swift response,” details surrounding the girls’ release remain undisclosed. This incident is part of a broader wave of kidnappings plaguing Nigeria, with over 250 children abducted from a Catholic school in Niger State still missing as of last Friday. A presidential adviser confirmed that all the Kebbi State girls are now safe but warned that the incident has inspired copycat kidnappings in two other states. Tinubu has pledged to deploy additional personnel to vulnerable areas and enhance surveillance efforts, including continuous Air Force monitoring of remote regions. Since the infamous Chibok mass abduction in 2014, more than 1,500 children have been kidnapped from Nigerian schools. The recent spate of abductions, including the St Mary’s School incident where 300 children and staff were taken, has drawn sharp criticism from religious leaders and international figures. UN education envoy Gordon Brown urged the global community to support efforts to ensure Nigerian schools remain safe spaces for learning.
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Fans from 105 countries expected to attend Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit is finalizing preparations for what promises to be the most internationally diverse Formula One event in its history. With just days remaining until the season finale from December 4-7, organizers anticipate surpassing last year’s attendance record of 192,000 spectators as fans converge from 105 different countries.
The championship approaches its climax with an unprecedented three-way battle between Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and Max Verstappen. With merely 24 points separating the current leader Norris from his rivals and 58 championship points remaining across the final two rounds, the title decision will likely occur on Yas Marina’s challenging 5.28km track.
Event organizer Ethara has transformed the Grand Prix into the region’s premier sporting spectacle, combining world-class racing with an entertainment program featuring eight headline musical acts. The 2025 lineup represents the most ambitious in the event’s history, featuring performances by Post Malone, Metallica, Katy Perry, Calvin Harris, and other international stars across multiple venues.
CEO Saif Al Noaimi emphasized the event’s significance: “Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the most anticipated weekend on the region’s sporting calendar. The 2025 event promises to be remarkable with more fans, more racing, and exciting new experiences on and off the track.”
The operational scale involves over 40,000 professionals from UAE-based companies, including temporary structure construction teams, hospitality providers, and volunteer staff. Sustainability initiatives mark significant advancements this year, with the elimination of single-use plastic bottles and cups across all venues, replaced by sustainable alternatives and complimentary water stations. These measures support Ethara’s commitment to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% before 2030 and transition to fully renewable energy by 2035.
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New Year’s Eve in Dubai: Prices go up to Dh12,000 for front seat view of Burj Khalifa
As New Year’s Eve approaches, Dubai is gearing up for its annual spectacle, with premium dining experiences offering front-row views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks commanding prices as high as Dh12,000 per person. Restaurants in Souq Al Bahar and Dubai Mall are already seeing a surge in bookings, with exclusive packages that include gourmet meals, champagne, and unobstructed views of the iconic display. Günaydin restaurant, for instance, offers a Dh12,000 package per person, while other venues like The Meat Co and Mausum provide varying options ranging from Dh3,000 to Dh8,500. For those seeking a more casual experience, eateries like Five Guys and TGI Friday offer outdoor seating with views of the fireworks for Dh1,900 to Dh3,000 per person. Meanwhile, free public viewing areas around Downtown Dubai will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, complemented by LED screens broadcasting the live show. Emaar has also announced an eight-day mega celebration starting December 31, with tickets to Burj Park priced at Dh997.5 for adults and Dh577.50 for children. Early interest in these premium experiences has been notable, with enquiries beginning as early as October, highlighting the city’s reputation as a global hub for luxury and entertainment.
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Dubai to deliver 10 million meals to support Palestinians in Gaza
Dubai is spearheading a monumental humanitarian effort to deliver 10 million meals to Palestinians in Gaza, addressing their urgent needs and alleviating their suffering. The initiative, organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), will see the meals transported aboard the Mohammed bin Rashid Humanitarian Ship, in collaboration with Operation Chivalrous Knight 3. Community members are encouraged to volunteer and assist in meal preparation on December 7 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City. Interested individuals can register at www.MBRship.ae. This campaign highlights the UAE’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid and solidarity with the Palestinian people. Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Secretary-General of MBRGI, emphasized the UAE’s dedication to supporting those in need, stating that the initiative symbolizes the nation’s generosity and belief in turning pain into hope. The effort builds on MBRGI’s broader pledge, announced in January 2024, to provide Dh43 million in direct food aid to one million people in Gaza, in partnership with the World Food Programme. This follows earlier commitments, including Dh50 million in urgent aid directed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2023 and a September 2024 shipment of 71.6 tonnes of medical supplies to Gaza via Egypt’s El Arish port.