A harrowing account from a Malian shopkeeper has revealed the brutal tactics employed by Russian mercenaries in Mali, highlighting a campaign of terror that has left the local population traumatized. The shopkeeper, identified as Ahmed, described witnessing the cold-blooded murder of two men by Wagner Group fighters, who then threatened to sever his fingers and kill him. This testimony is part of a broader investigation by the BBC into the operations of Russian mercenaries in Mali, which has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups.
标签： Africa
非洲
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Dubai gets new 200,000 sqft South Bay Mall with lagoon views, food hall, gym and more
Dubai is set to welcome a new retail and lifestyle destination with the launch of South Bay Mall, a 200,000 sq.ft. development located in the heart of the Dubai South Residential District. Strategically positioned within the flagship mixed-use waterfront development of South Bay, the mall promises to elevate the lifestyle of residents and visitors alike. Spanning ground, first, and rooftop levels, the mall offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lagoon and features open-air walkways, creating a unique shopping and leisure experience. The mall will house 60 retail units, two anchor stores, and a premium food hall, alongside outdoor leisure spaces, a clubhouse, gym, spa, clinic, and parking for over 400 vehicles. Designed as a dynamic lifestyle hub, South Bay Mall complements the broader South Bay community, which includes over 800 villas and townhouses, 200 waterfront mansions, a kilometer-long lagoon, waterfront promenades, lush parks, and private beaches. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, emphasized the mall’s role in creating an integrated destination that enriches lives and supports Dubai South’s vision of becoming a future-ready city. The development aligns with the region’s goal of accommodating one million residents upon the completion of Al Maktoum International Airport.
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Support for Kenyan school welcomed by students
In a significant move to enhance educational opportunities in one of Kenya’s largest slums, the Chinese Embassy in Kenya and the Kenya-China Economic and Trade Association (KCETA) have donated $84,800 to MCEDO Beijing School in Nairobi. This funding will facilitate comprehensive upgrades to the school’s facilities, including classroom renovations, improved lighting systems, modern desks, and essential educational materials. Established in 2007 with initial funding from the Chinese Embassy, the school has seen a steady increase in student numbers, now nearing 600, thanks to ongoing support from Chinese entities. Benedict Kiage, the school’s director, highlighted the transformative impact of this support, noting the addition of science laboratory equipment and instructional materials that attract more students seeking quality education. Student representative Latifah Natasha Omondi expressed heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing the improved safety and aesthetics of the school environment. Chinese Ambassador Guo Haiyan underscored the broader significance of the school’s development, framing it as a testament to the enduring friendship and shared future between China and Kenya. KCETA Chairman Yu Xiaodong reaffirmed the association’s commitment to continuous support, urging students to aspire to become future contributors to both their nation and the bilateral relationship.
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UAE: Petrofac employees receive 19-day salary, end of benefits still uncertain
Former employees of Petrofac, who were part of the November 19 layoffs, have received their salaries for the 19 days worked in November. While this partial payment has provided short-term relief, many are still awaiting clarity on their full-and-final settlement, including notice-period salaries and end-of-service benefits. Employees expressed concerns over how they will manage upcoming expenses such as rent, school fees, and household bills without the expected three-month notice-period payout. According to UAE labor rules, terminated staff are entitled to a three-month notice-period salary, but Petrofac has only paid for the 19 days worked in November. Employees were informed that the full settlement process would take up to 14 days from the date of termination, with a detailed statement of account expected by December 3. This statement will cover all dues, including airfares, leave balances, and any remaining payments. Until then, employees remain in a state of uncertainty, unable to plan their next steps. Petrofac has been facing operational and financial challenges in recent months, leading to multiple rounds of restructuring. The company has not issued an official statement regarding the concerns raised by former employees. Khaleej Times attempted to reach Petrofac for comment, but multiple calls went unanswered. The lack of clarity on gratuity payouts, leave encashments, and notice-period salaries has added to the financial stress for families with long-term commitments in the UAE.
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Larsson wins again on Tommy Fleetwood International Pathway Series by DP World
Victor Larsson and Alisa Molokanova emerged victorious in the Male and Female Divisions, respectively, at the Tommy Fleetwood International Pathway Series presented by DP World. Held at Al Hamra Golf Club in Ras Al Khaimah, the 54-hole championship, sanctioned by the AJGA and Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), was a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) qualifier and a ‘Major’ on the EGF Junior Order of Merit for the 2025–26 season. Larsson, representing The Els Club in Dubai, carded rounds of 68, 73, and 70 for a five-under-par total of 211, narrowly defeating Aayan Dadabhoy by one shot. Molokanova, representing the Russian Golf Federation, posted rounds of 72, 72, and a stellar final-day 67, the week’s best score, to finish with a five-under-par total of 211, securing a five-shot victory over Alayna Rafique. This marks Larsson’s second consecutive win in the series, following his triumph at the inaugural event in 2024. The tournament, open to players aged 12 to 18 with an official handicap, attracted 82 participants. The third and final event of the season will take place at Yas Links Abu Dhabi from 10–12 February 2026.
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UAE: Gaza journalist, top hostage mediator among guests at Emirates Literature Festival
The 17th edition of the Emirates Literature Festival (ELF), scheduled to take place from January 21 to 27, 2026, has announced its full lineup, promising a diverse and thought-provoking program. The festival, held at the Theater of Digital Art in Madinat Jumeirah, will feature a range of notable figures, including Gaza photojournalist Plestia Aqad and top hostage mediator Scott Walker. Aqad, author of ‘Eyes of Gaza,’ will participate in panel discussions to share her harrowing experiences documenting one of the most extensively covered conflicts in history. Walker, renowned for his expertise in crisis negotiation, will reveal strategies for diffusing high-stakes situations. The festival will also celebrate Emirati culture, with poet Shamma Al Bastaki presenting her debut collection ‘House to House,’ which chronicles Dubai’s transformation from the 1940s to the 1980s. Award-winning author Salha Obaid will mark the English translation of her novel ‘Circle of Spice,’ while children’s author Ebtisam Al-Beiti will enchant young audiences with a puppet show based on her latest book. International literary sensation RF Kuang and Emmy-winning comedian Vir Das will also grace the event, alongside a tribute to Egyptian icon Umm Kulthum. Ahlam Bolooki, CEO of the Emirates Literature Foundation, highlighted the festival’s global impact, having inspired over a million children and launched numerous initiatives.
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South Africa eye sweep as India start mammoth chase poorly
South Africa has positioned itself for a potential series sweep after setting India a daunting victory target of 549 in the second Test in Guwahati. The visitors declared their second innings at 260-5, following Tristan Stubbs’ impressive knock of 94, which was cut short by Ravindra Jadeja’s bowling. India, trailing by 522 runs, faced early setbacks in their chase, ending the day at 27-2, with Sai Sudharsan and nightwatchman Kuldeep Yadav set to resume on Wednesday. South Africa’s dominant performance was bolstered by their first-innings lead of 288, putting immense pressure on the hosts. Earlier in the day, South Africa’s top order struggled against India’s spinners, with Jadeja claiming four wickets. Despite some resistance from Tony de Zorzi (49) and Wiaan Mulder (35 not out), India’s bowlers found it challenging to contain the visitors. India’s batting woes continued as opener Yashasvi Jaiswal fell for 13, and KL Rahul was dismissed for six by Simon Harmer. With three sessions remaining, India faces an uphill battle to salvage a draw.
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X’s new feature raises questions about the foreign origins of some popular US political accounts
Accounts with names like @TRUMP_ARMY and @MAGANationX, adorned with portraits of former President Donald Trump, voter rallies, and American flags, have long appeared to be fervent supporters of U.S. politics. However, a recent update to the social media platform X has revealed that many of these accounts are not based in the United States but in regions such as South Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe. This discovery has raised significant concerns about foreign influence on American political discourse. Elon Musk’s X introduced a new feature on Saturday, allowing users to see the location of an account. This tool, called ‘About This Account,’ displays the country or region where an account is based. While the feature aims to enhance transparency and combat misinformation, it has also sparked controversy. Researchers at NewsGuard, a firm specializing in tracking online misinformation, identified several popular accounts—purportedly run by Americans—that are actually based abroad. These accounts have been disseminating polarizing and misleading claims about U.S. politics, including allegations that Democrats bribed moderators of a 2024 presidential debate. The location feature, while 99.99% accurate according to X’s head of product Nikita Bier, is not foolproof. Accounts can use virtual private networks (VPNs) to mask their true location, and some internet providers automatically use proxies, complicating the accuracy of the data. The revelation has divided users, with some praising the transparency and others questioning its implications for privacy. Critics argue that the feature could be seen as an invasion of privacy, while supporters believe it is a necessary step to safeguard the integrity of online discourse. The controversy underscores the ongoing challenges of combating misinformation and foreign influence in the digital age.
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South Africa sets out stall for tourists from China
South Africa is actively enhancing its tourism strategy to attract more visitors from China, leveraging recent visa reforms to streamline the entry process. Patricia de Lille, the country’s Minister of Tourism, highlighted the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which simplifies visa applications by enabling online submissions, biometric data collection, and approvals within 70 hours. This digital initiative is expected to significantly benefit key markets, including China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico. De Lille also noted the positive impact of the recent G20 Summit in Soweto, where local hotels experienced full occupancy, underscoring the sector’s growth potential. The tourism industry, which created 1.6 million jobs in South Africa last year, remains a critical driver of economic development and employment. De Lille emphasized the broader untapped tourism potential across Africa, urging closer collaboration among African nations to promote the continent as a unified destination. She called for accelerated implementation of Agenda 2063’s tourism goals, which aim to position Africa as a global tourism hub driven by integration, prosperity, and peace. To achieve this, she stressed the need for coordinated efforts among tourism and transport ministers to eliminate barriers to intra-African travel.
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Anis Sajan to host sunset yoga session at private residence in Dubai
Dubai’s luxury wellness landscape is about to witness a unique event as Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group and a dedicated yoga enthusiast, gears up to host an exclusive Sunset Yoga session at his private residence in Emirates Hills. Scheduled for November 29 from 5pm onwards, the event aligns with the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), a city-wide initiative encouraging active, mindful, and health-conscious lifestyles. Set against the tranquil backdrop of Emirates Hills, the session welcomes yoga practitioners of all levels, offering a guided flow led by an experienced instructor. Attendees will also gain wellness insights from Sajan himself, coupled with breathtaking sunset views that promise to enhance the overall experience. The event aims to leave participants feeling rejuvenated, grounded, and deeply connected to both nature and themselves. This initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to fostering a culture of wellness and mindfulness among its residents and visitors.