Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Joshua pays emotional tribute in new video

    Joshua pays emotional tribute in new video

    Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has broken his silence following the tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close members of his team. The 36-year-old British boxer released a deeply personal six-minute video titled ‘My Brothers Keeper For Life’ on his social media channels, addressing the December 29th incident that resulted in the deaths of his strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and personal trainer Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele.

    The collision occurred near Lagos when the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and his companions struck a stationary truck on a major roadway. While Joshua sustained only minor injuries and was photographed being assisted from the wreckage, both Ghami and Ayodele were pronounced dead at the scene.

    In his emotional address, Joshua expressed profound gratitude to supporters worldwide who had shown ‘so much love, support through that tragic, traumatic time.’ He described the unique bond shared with his departed friends, revealing they had become business partners, hustlers, and essentially family. ‘We became lieutenants. We became generals. We became everything,’ Joshua reflected, emphasizing how the trio had been living together and building their lives collectively.

    The legal proceedings have advanced with 46-year-old chauffeur Adeniyi Kayode appearing in Nigerian court facing four charges, including causing death by dangerous driving.

    Joshua acknowledged the devastating impact on the families and communities of both men, stating ‘Not only did their parents, their uncles, their cousins, their friends and myself lose two great men, we lost people that we dearly care about.’ He made a solemn commitment to support Ghami and Ayodele’s families in achieving their goals and fulfilling their dreams, expressing certainty that their parents would be ‘100% proud of them.’

    While Joshua’s boxing future remains uncertain, he has returned to training, recently posting Snapchat footage of himself working out with the caption ‘mental strength therapy.’ Promoter Eddie Hearn has indicated confidence that Joshua will return to the ring ‘when the time is right,’ though the fighter himself has not confirmed any plans regarding his professional comeback.

  • Abu Dhabi researchers develop nanotechnology for better cancer detection, treatment

    Abu Dhabi researchers develop nanotechnology for better cancer detection, treatment

    Scientists at NYU Abu Dhabi have engineered a groundbreaking nanotechnology platform that significantly enhances both cancer detection and treatment methodologies. This innovative approach centers on photothermal therapy, an emerging technique that utilizes light energy to generate localized heat within tumors, effectively destroying malignant cells while preserving healthy tissue.

    The research team developed uniquely designed nanoparticles constructed from hydroxyapatite—a naturally occurring mineral in human bones and teeth—ensuring biocompatibility and biodegradability. These nanoparticles are engineered to transport a specialized dye that activates upon exposure to near-infrared light. This specific light wavelength was strategically selected for its superior tissue penetration capabilities, enabling treatment of deeper tumors previously inaccessible to surface-level therapies.

    A critical advancement lies in the nanoparticle’s surface engineering, where lipid and polymer coatings enable extended bloodstream circulation while evading immune detection. This design dramatically improves tumor accumulation compared to previous photothermal agents. Additionally, the nanoparticles feature pH-responsive peptides that activate specifically in the acidic microenvironment of tumors, facilitating selective cancer cell entry while minimizing impact on healthy tissue.

    The integrated system provides dual functionality: upon near-infrared activation, the nanoparticles generate precise thermal destruction of tumor tissue while simultaneously producing real-time fluorescent and thermal imaging signals. This allows clinicians to visualize tumors and monitor treatment efficacy during therapeutic procedures.

    Professor Mazin Magzoub, the study’s senior author and associate biology professor at NYUAD, emphasized the transformative potential: “Our platform merges targeted treatment and diagnostic imaging within a single, biodegradable system. By overcoming fundamental delivery challenges, we’re advancing toward more precise cancer interventions with reduced side effects.”

    This research represents a substantial leap forward in nanomedicine, offering a promising alternative to conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation by minimizing systemic toxicity while improving therapeutic precision.

  • Ex-Nigerian oil minister did not take bribes from industry insiders, court told

    Ex-Nigerian oil minister did not take bribes from industry insiders, court told

    In a dramatic turn at Southwark Crown Court, the defense team for former Nigerian Oil Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke presented a comprehensive rebuttal against corruption allegations that have spanned nearly a decade. Jonathan Laidlaw KC, representing Alison-Madueke, articulated that the substantial expenditures on UK properties and luxury items attributed to her were fully reimbursed through legitimate channels in Nigeria.

    The court heard how Nigeria’s banking regulations prohibit ministers from maintaining overseas accounts, creating circumstances where third parties necessarily facilitated transactions that were subsequently settled domestically. Laidlaw emphasized: “Those who paid the bills were paid back, in Nigeria. She did not request or receive any financial advantage from these individuals.”

    Alison-Madueke, who served as Nigeria’s petroleum resources minister from 2010 to 2015—a position described as second only to the presidency in ministerial hierarchy—faces five counts of bribery acceptance and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery. The defense highlighted significant procedural concerns, including an eight-year gap between her 2015 arrest during cancer treatment in London and the 2023 formal charges.

    The defense argued this delay has fundamentally compromised the trial’s fairness, noting that critical financial records in Abuja have disappeared and that the businessmen allegedly involved in the purported bribery scheme remain at liberty worldwide without facing extradition attempts. “Through no fault of her own,” Laidlaw stated, “she doesn’t have available to her the material that supports her defense.”

    Co-defendants include oil executive Olatimbo Ayinde, who denies separate bribery charges, and Alison-Madueke’s brother, former bishop Doye Agama, who contests conspiracy allegations. The trial continues as the court examines one of Nigeria’s most high-profile corruption cases.

  • England ‘off the pace’ in defeat by South Africa

    England ‘off the pace’ in defeat by South Africa

    In a tense Johannesburg showdown on January 29, 2026, England’s Netball Roses suffered a narrow 52-48 defeat against South Africa in the opening match of their three-game international series. The contest served as crucial preparation for both teams ahead of this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

    The match began promisingly for England as they established an early 6-3 advantage. However, South Africa demonstrated remarkable resilience, steadily overturning the deficit to claim a 16-12 lead. The host nation continued to build momentum, entering halftime with a 29-25 advantage.

    England displayed significant determination after the break, mounting an impressive comeback that saw them briefly take a 39-38 lead during the final quarter. Despite this resurgence, South Africa capitalized on critical unforced errors from the Roses, ultimately securing their victory before a jubilant home crowd.

    Team captain Fran Williams acknowledged England’s performance shortcomings, stating: ‘Our start lacked intensity, particularly in offensive execution and ball reception. The South African defense consistently punished these technical deficiencies.’ Williams nevertheless praised her team’s second-half tenacity, emphasizing her pride in their persistent fighting spirit and calling for a strong response in the upcoming weekend double-header.

    With both nations ranked closely internationally—England fourth and South Africa fifth worldwide—the series represents vital competitive preparation. The teams share a Commonwealth Games pool alongside four other nations, adding strategic importance to these encounters.

    The squads will reconvene for their second match on Saturday at 15:00 GMT, followed by the series finale on Sunday at 14:00, providing both coaches valuable opportunities to refine tactics and roster selections ahead of the Glasgow competition.

  • ‘The water took everything’: Mozambique hit by worst floods in decades

    ‘The water took everything’: Mozambique hit by worst floods in decades

    Mozambique is confronting a humanitarian emergency of unprecedented scale as the most devastating floods in decades continue to ravage the southeastern African nation. Torrential rainfall over several weeks has triggered severe flooding, submerging vast territories, obliterating critical infrastructure, and displacing communities on a massive scale.

    Official estimates indicate that the calamity has directly impacted approximately 700,000 individuals, with countless families losing their homes, livelihoods, and access to essential services. The powerful currents of floodwater have swept away roads, bridges, and homes, severing connections between towns and villages and severely hampering rescue and aid distribution efforts. A palpable sense of despair permeates affected regions, with one resident lamenting, ‘The water took everything,’ a sentiment echoing the profound loss experienced by many.

    The national government, in conjunction with international aid agencies, is racing against time to mount a coordinated response. Emergency teams are working to evacuate stranded citizens and provide immediate relief in the form of shelter, clean water, food, and medical supplies. However, the extensive scale of the flooding presents monumental logistical challenges. Beyond the immediate crisis, concerns are mounting over the long-term repercussions, which include the heightened risk of waterborne disease outbreaks, widespread crop destruction threatening food security, and the arduous, costly process of rebuilding shattered communities and infrastructure. This disaster underscores the extreme vulnerability of certain regions to increasingly volatile weather patterns.

  • Kenya to host intl investment conference on indigenous knowledge

    Kenya to host intl investment conference on indigenous knowledge

    Kenya is poised to host its inaugural International Investment Conference and Trade Fair on Indigenous Knowledge Intellectual Assets this April in Murang’a County. This groundbreaking initiative represents a strategic effort to transform documented traditional knowledge into viable market innovations by creating crucial connections between local communities and global investors.

    The conference will serve as a platform to showcase Kenya’s rich indigenous intellectual assets and their potential to drive inclusive socio-economic transformation. Participants from 13 pilot counties, including micro, small and medium enterprises alongside community-based asset owners, will present their innovations to potential investors for product development and commercial exploitation.

    Exhibitions will feature diverse traditional technologies, medicinal products, cultural foods, and creative arts. Stephen Munania, Deputy Governor of Murang’a County, emphasized during the media launch that the conference would catalyze industry development across multiple sectors including tourism, publishing, storytelling, medicine, and arts crafts.

    “The sacred sites where our ancestors worshipped remain meaningless unless their stories are properly narrated. We must preserve the narratives of our communities’ origins and historical inter-tribal interactions,” Munania stated, highlighting the challenge of converting indigenous knowledge into sustainable investments, employment opportunities, and value chains.

    Mary Gikungu, Director-General of the National Museums of Kenya, revealed that the indigenous knowledge documentation and digitization project aligns with the Protection of Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions Act 2016. The initiative ultimately aims to cover all 47 Kenyan counties through phased implementation.

    The National Museums of Kenya has implemented comprehensive research and intellectual property policies to safeguard market-ready innovations derived from documented indigenous knowledge. “We are actively engaging potential investors whose participation is essential for transforming heritage-based enterprise concepts into tangible realities,” Gikungu confirmed.

    Edwin Abonyo, Board Chair of the National Museums of Kenya, emphasized the project’s objective to leverage the country’s previously underutilized heritage and traditional knowledge resources, with current operations spanning 13 counties and plans for nationwide expansion.

  • Is your child tired? What UAE experts say about co-curricular activities

    Is your child tired? What UAE experts say about co-curricular activities

    Across the United Arab Emirates, a growing educational concern is emerging as children transition directly from classroom instruction to a relentless cycle of co-curricular engagements. This phenomenon sees students rushing to tennis practices, music lessons, swimming sessions, and language classes with minimal downtime in between.

    Educational institutions frequently promote these supplemental activities, whether included in standard tuition fees or offered as premium additions, while many parents independently arrange external programs. The central debate has evolved beyond questioning the value of such engagements to examining whether contemporary schedules adequately preserve essential childhood experiences—including unstructured rest, creative imagination, and spontaneous play.

    Parental perspectives vary significantly regarding activity management. Dubai resident Arijit Nandi advocates for his 9-year-old son’s intensive regimen—featuring pre-dawn tennis, midweek swimming, weekend guitar, and additional academic coaching—as a purposeful strategy for energy channeling and digital detoxification. He emphasizes his child’s genuine enjoyment and regular fatigue assessments.

    Conversely, Japanese expatriate Kenji Takahashi adopts a more measured approach for his 10-year-old daughter, balancing piano, karate, and art with protected downtime for bicycle riding and social play. His philosophy centers on energy guidance rather than control, ensuring activities serve developmental purpose rather than mere scheduling saturation.

    Educational specialists identify concerning trends beneath these well-intentioned arrangements. Girish Hemnani, a Dubai-based life coach, observes that families and institutions are unconsciously perpetuating a productivity race that creates an ‘illusion of productivity’ while depriving children of neurological development opportunities. He explains that boredom activates the brain’s Default Mode Network, which facilitates imagination and self-reflection—processes compromised by constant scheduling.

    Research indicates that free play fundamentally develops executive functioning, including planning capabilities, self-regulation, and initiative-taking. Hemnani further warns that overscheduled children risk losing spontaneity and personal agency, particularly when parents normalize ‘hustle culture’ due to their own professional pressures and digital consumption habits.

    School leadership is responding to these concerns with revised approaches. Natalia Svetenok, Principal of Woodlem British School in Ajman, states unequivocally that ‘a tired child cannot thrive,’ advocating for activities that generate joy rather than pressure. Similarly, The Aquila School’s Principal Wayne Howsen emphasizes that co-curricular activities must stem from genuine student interest rather than functioning as extended childcare, noting that choice-driven participation builds teamwork, problem-solving, and multilingual skills more effectively.

    The emerging consensus among UAE educators and parents suggests a paradigm shift toward balanced scheduling that honors both structured development and essential childhood experiences.

  • Melania Trump documentary not showing in South African cinemas

    Melania Trump documentary not showing in South African cinemas

    South African cinema chains have withdrawn from screening the controversial documentary ‘Melania’ about US First Lady Melania Trump, citing unspecified “recent developments” and the “current climate” in bilateral relations. Filmfinity, the leading distributor in southern Africa, informed theater operators not to list the film despite its global release scheduled for Friday.

    The documentary, which chronicles Melania Trump’s activities during the 20 days preceding her husband’s second inauguration in January 2023, had received substantial backing from Amazon. The streaming giant reportedly invested $35 million in marketing and approximately $40 million for distribution rights.

    Neither Ster Kinekor nor Nu Metro, South Africa’s primary cinema chains, are promoting the film on their platforms. Ster Kinekor’s promotional page remains inaccessible, while Nu Metro’s website lists no showtimes despite previously featuring the documentary on social media.

    This development occurs against the backdrop of significantly deteriorated US-South Africa relations over the past year. Tensions escalated following former President Donald Trump’s promotion of the widely disputed ‘white genocide’ theory concerning South Africa’s Afrikaner community. Additional friction points include Trump’s imposition of high tariffs on South African exports, reduction of aid programs, and disagreements over South Africa’s International Court of Justice case against Israel regarding Gaza operations.

    The BBC’s attempts to obtain clarification from Filmfinity regarding their specific concerns remain unanswered, leaving the precise motivations behind the cancellation unclear.

  • Africa has the worst road safety record in the world. Here’s what to know

    Africa has the worst road safety record in the world. Here’s what to know

    Africa continues to grapple with the world’s most severe road safety crisis, as highlighted by recent tragic incidents including a collision involving former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua in Nigeria and multiple minibus accidents in South Africa that claimed at least 25 lives. These events underscore a systemic problem across the continent, where road fatality rates dramatically outpace global averages despite Africa accounting for merely 3% of the world’s vehicles.

    According to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the continent experiences 26 road deaths per 100,000 people—significantly higher than the global average of approximately 18 and more than double Europe’s rate of fewer than 10 fatalities. This translates to over 300,000 annual road crash fatalities, with the World Health Organization reporting increasing numbers despite global improvements.

    The unique dynamics of African road usage contribute substantially to this crisis. With limited personal vehicle ownership due to economic constraints, roads become chaotic landscapes where pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles, cars, buses, and trucks compete for space without adequate infrastructure. Approximately 40% of African road deaths involve pedestrians—twice the global average—reaching nearly 50% in some nations.

    A 2024 WHO analysis reveals that few African countries have developed transportation systems accommodating these diverse travel modes. Inadequate public transit forces millions to rely on overloaded minibuses and motorcycle taxis, often operating without proper safety standards. South Africa exemplifies this challenge, where minibus taxis transport over 10 million daily commuters despite ongoing regulatory struggles regarding driver licensing, vehicle roadworthiness, and traffic law enforcement.

    Compounding these issues are generally weak traffic law enforcement and substandard road infrastructure safety ratings, with only a minimal percentage of Africa’s road network meeting acceptable quality standards. The December-January holiday period proves particularly lethal, as demonstrated by South Africa’s reported 1,427 road deaths during a recent 42-day span, averaging over 30 daily fatalities despite having one of the continent’s more developed road systems.

  • French energy giant TotalEnergies resumes Mozambique $20 billion project as insurgency slows

    French energy giant TotalEnergies resumes Mozambique $20 billion project as insurgency slows

    French energy conglomerate TotalEnergies has officially recommenced operations on its monumental $20 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) initiative in northern Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province. The project, which represents one of Africa’s most substantial energy investments, had been suspended since April 2021 due to escalating insurgent violence that resulted in thousands of fatalities and displaced over one million residents.

    At a ceremony attended by Mozambican President Daniel Chapo at the Afungi project site, TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanné declared the formal conclusion of force majeure status and announced anticipated initial gas deliveries for 2029. The company projects a significant acceleration of operational activities throughout the coming months.

    The security situation that previously jeopardized the project has substantially improved through coordinated military interventions. Mozambique secured support from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) coalition forces and Rwandan defense personnel. While SADC troops completed their mandate and withdrew earlier this year, Rwandan security forces maintain their presence, contributing to stabilized conditions despite occasional isolated clashes.

    President Chapo, elected in 2024 with commitments to economic revitalization and enhanced national security, characterized the project’s revival as transformative for regional perception. He emphasized that operational resumption demonstrates Cabo Delgado’s recovery beyond security challenges and represents a crucial advancement in national economic strategy.

    The LNG development is projected to generate substantial governmental revenue through Mozambique’s minority stake, with additional investment participation from India, Japan, and Thailand. TotalEnergies anticipates employing over 4,000 workers, with 80% representing Mozambican nationals receiving specialized vocational training in technical fields including electrical systems and carpentry.

    Concurrently, TotalEnergies has pledged humanitarian assistance following catastrophic flooding that claimed approximately 300 lives across Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe earlier this month, according to United Nations assessments.