Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Chaos erupts in Somalia’s parliament over proposed constitutional amendments

    Chaos erupts in Somalia’s parliament over proposed constitutional amendments

    MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s parliamentary proceedings descended into unprecedented turmoil on Wednesday as physical altercations and vocal protests forced the abrupt suspension of a joint legislative session. The disruption occurred when Speaker Adan Madobe unexpectedly introduced proposals to amend five chapters of the nation’s provisional constitution, triggering immediate opposition from lawmakers who alleged the changes would illegally extend parliamentary mandates.

    The contentious session witnessed extraordinary scenes of disorder as opposition parliamentarians tore up agenda documents, shouted slogans, and blew whistles to drown out proceedings. Social media footage captured Internal Security Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail, a supporter of the amendments, physically confronting opposition lawmaker Hassan Yare, though the exact catalyst for the altercation remained unclear.

    Opposition legislator Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsameh accused Speaker Madobe of attempting to bypass established parliamentary procedures to rush through the amendments, which critics claim would grant a two-year extension to the current parliament’s term set to expire in April, with the presidential term concluding the following month.

    Faced with mounting chaos, Madobe adjourned the session indefinitely while threatening disciplinary action against those responsible for the disruptions. The speaker did not immediately respond to requests for clarification regarding the proposed amendments or when deliberations might resume.

    This political crisis echoes similar constitutional tensions from 2021 under former president Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, whose attempt to extend political mandates sparked armed confrontations in Mogadishu and pushed the nation toward widespread unrest. Somalia has operated under a provisional constitution since 2012, with repeated efforts to finalize the document exposing profound divisions between the federal government and regional states over power-sharing and governance structures.

  • Assefa targets repeat of record-breaking London win

    Assefa targets repeat of record-breaking London win

    The upcoming London Marathon on April 26th promises an unprecedented clash of athletic excellence as four of the six fastest female marathon runners in history prepare for a historic confrontation. Reigning champion Tigst Assefa leads the stellar lineup, determined to replicate her record-shattering 2025 performance where she established a women-only world record of 2:15:50.

    This year’s competition intensifies as Assefa faces her most formidable adversaries: Olympic gold medalist Sifan Hassan and world champion Peres Jepchirchir. The Ethiopian athlete enters the race with unfinished business, having suffered dramatic sprint-finish defeats against both competitors in recent global championships. Their rivalry has produced some of the most memorable moments in modern marathon history.

    “My victory in last year’s London Marathon, coupled with setting the women-only world record, stands among the most significant achievements of my professional journey,” Assefa stated. “To accomplish this again, I must outperform exceptional champions like Peres and Sifan. They have consistently proven to be challenging opponents, and our encounters have created spectacular racing narratives. I aspire to emerge victorious this time.”

    The women-only world record distinction applies to races conducted without male pacemakers or competitors. Assefa previously held the outright women’s world record after her spectacular 2:11:53 performance in Berlin during 2023. She currently ranks as the second-fastest female marathoner historically, though this status comes with complexity.

    Ruth Chepngetich, who recorded the fastest women’s marathon time of 2:09:56 in Chicago 2024, received a three-year competitive ban after admitting to anti-doping violations following a positive test in March 2025. Notably, Chepngetich’s achievements preceding that sample remain officially recognized.

    The competitive landscape has transformed dramatically since Paula Radcliffe’s longstanding record of 2:15:25 stood unchallenged until 2019. In the subsequent seven years, eight women have surpassed this benchmark, including Dutch sensation Hassan (2:13:44) and Kenyan standouts Joyciline Jepkosgei (2:14:00) and Jepchirchir (2:14:43), all competing in this edition.

    Further enhancing the event’s appeal, Uruguay’s Julia Paternain joins the elite field. Raised in the United Kingdom, Paternain gained international attention for her astonished reaction to capturing an unexpected bronze medal at last year’s world championships.

    The women’s elite announcement follows earlier revelations regarding British contenders, including Emile Cairess and Eilish McColgan. Meanwhile, the wheelchair competitions feature another historic narrative as Britain’s David Weir attempts to prevent Swiss legend Marcel Hug from matching his record eight London Marathon victories.

  • Dubai Fintech District to take shape as startup-focused commercial park

    Dubai Fintech District to take shape as startup-focused commercial park

    Dubai is advancing its position as a global fintech hub with the development of a specialized commercial park designed exclusively for startups in financial technology and digital assets. The Dubai Fintech District, spanning 250,000 square feet, is conceived as an integrated community that merges collaborative workspaces with shared common areas to foster innovation and daily interaction among emerging companies.

    Unlike conventional office complexes, this district emphasizes open-layout designs, natural lighting, and pedestrian-friendly environments. It features a central courtyard for informal meetings and collaborative work, creating a hybrid atmosphere that combines residential comfort with professional functionality. The project specifically targets early-stage companies that thrive on proximity, rapid feedback, and team-based learning.

    Leading the initiative is Hatu Sheikh, a prominent Web3 entrepreneur and founder of CoinTerminal, who argues that physical workspace remains crucial for startup development despite the rise of remote work. Sheikh emphasizes that young teams require environments that encourage spontaneous idea exchange and continuous learning—what he describes as ‘brain melt’—where innovation can flourish through seamless interaction.

    The development aligns with Dubai’s strategic push to attract fintech firms, leveraging its regulatory frameworks and geographic position between Asian and European markets. Sheikh’s vision extends beyond digital products, positioning physical infrastructure as a foundational element for sustainable company growth. The Dubai Fintech District represents one of several real estate projects he is pursuing in 2026, all focused on supporting innovation-driven industries through purpose-built spaces designed for scalability and collaboration.

  • US YouTube star IShowSpeed to get Ghanaian passport as Africa tour ends

    US YouTube star IShowSpeed to get Ghanaian passport as Africa tour ends

    In a significant cultural and diplomatic move, Ghana has officially approved Ghanaian citizenship for global YouTube sensation IShowSpeed following his transformative 28-nation tour across Africa. The 21-year-old content creator, born Darren Watkins Jr., received this honor during the final leg of his “Speed Does Africa” expedition, which concluded earlier this week.

    Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa personally announced the decision via social media, revealing that the passport approval came after “confirmation of the irrefutable ties of IShowSpeed to Ghana.” During an emotional live stream from Ghana, the influencer disclosed that his mother hails from the West African nation, creating an immediate familial connection that resonated deeply with both officials and citizens.

    The groundbreaking Africa tour, which amassed millions of views worldwide, has been widely praised for challenging continental stereotypes and showcasing diverse African cultures. IShowSpeed’s journey included remarkable experiences from racing cheetahs to participating in traditional naming ceremonies. In Ghana’s eastern region, he underwent a ceremonial naming ritual where he was honored with the traditional name Barima Kofi Akuffo while adorned in prestigious kente cloth.

    While many Ghanaians celebrated the decision as a smart diplomatic move to engage the global diaspora, some critics expressed concerns about potential devaluation of citizenship privileges. The controversy reflects ongoing debates about celebrity diplomacy and national identity in the digital age.

    This development aligns with Ghana’s broader strategy to strengthen connections with the African diaspora worldwide. In 2024, the nation extended citizenship offers to over 500 diaspora members, predominantly African-Americans including music legend Stevie Wonder.

    IShowSpeed, recently named Rolling Stone’s “most influential creator of 2025” and boasting a net worth estimated at $20 million by Forbes, has now surpassed 50 million YouTube subscribers—a milestone significantly boosted by his African content. His journey represents a new era of digital diplomacy where online influencers bridge cultural divides and reshape international perceptions through authentic engagement.

  • What to know about South Sudan’s major offensive against opposition forces

    What to know about South Sudan’s major offensive against opposition forces

    NAIROBI, Kenya — South Sudan’s military has initiated a comprehensive combat operation dubbed ‘Operation Enduring Peace’ following significant territorial setbacks to opposition forces in Jonglei state. Army spokesman Lul Ruai Koang confirmed the offensive would target recapturing recently lost towns and reestablishing governmental authority.

    The announcement comes amid international alarm after a senior military commander, General Johnson Olony, was filmed instructing troops to ‘spare no lives’ during operations in Duk county. The video, circulated on social media, shows Olony explicitly ordering the destruction of property and killing of civilians, including the elderly. Government spokesman Ateny Wek Ateny subsequently characterized these remarks as ‘uncalled for’ and potentially a morale-boosting tactic rather than official policy.

    This military escalation follows months of intensified conflict between government forces and a coalition of opposition groups, including factions loyal to suspended Vice President Riek Machar and the ethnic Nuer militia known as the White Army. The opposition alliance has captured multiple government outposts since December, most notably seizing Pajut on January 16 and threatening advancement toward the capital Juba.

    The resurgent violence threatens to unravel the fragile 2018 peace agreement that ended a devastating five-year civil war which claimed approximately 400,000 lives. Machar, currently under house arrest facing treason charges, has seen his political faction declare the peace agreement void while intensifying military pressure through armory seizures and hit-and-run attacks.

    International observers have expressed profound concern over the deteriorating situation. Alan Boswell of the International Crisis Group stated unequivocally that ‘South Sudan has returned to war,’ describing the development as ‘incredibly tragic for a country that only grows weaker and poorer.’ The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan warned of ‘grave alarm’ regarding the significantly heightened ‘risk of mass violence against civilians.’

    Civil society leader Edmund Yakani characterized Olony’s comments as evidence that government troops were being ’empowered to commit atrocities, to commit crimes against humanity, and, potentially, even to commit a genocide.’ The deployment of Olony—a Shilluk commander with a history of conflict with Nuer communities—to predominantly Nuer areas of Jonglei has been described by analysts as ‘incendiary’ and a ‘propaganda gift to the opposition.’

    The army has ordered civilian evacuations from three Jonglei counties and given aid organizations 48 hours to depart, raising concerns about humanitarian access and civilian protection in the conflict zone.

  • From Australia to Europe, countries move to curb children’s social media access

    From Australia to Europe, countries move to curb children’s social media access

    In an unprecedented global movement, nations across the world are implementing stringent age-based restrictions on social media access for minors. Australia has emerged as the pioneering nation, enacting a landmark legislation in November 2024 that effectively bans children under 16 from accessing major platforms including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook since December 10, 2025. This radical approach imposes severe penalties of up to A$49.5 million ($34.3 million) for non-compliant companies.

    The Australian model has triggered a domino effect across continents. Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on January 20 that the government is considering similar restrictions, though specific age thresholds remain undefined. France’s National Assembly approved legislation on January 26 to ban social media for under-15s, while Denmark is moving to prohibit access for children under 15 with parental exemptions possible from age 13. Malaysia has declared intentions to implement bans for users under 16 starting 2026.

    European nations are adopting varied approaches. Germany requires parental consent for minors aged 13-16, Italy mandates parental approval for those under 14, and Norway proposes raising the consent age from 13 to 15. The European Parliament has advocated for a harmonized EU digital age limit of 16 for social media access, though this resolution remains non-binding.

    Asian responses demonstrate regional diversity. China has implemented a comprehensive ‘minor mode’ program with device-level restrictions and app-specific screen time limitations based on age. India’s tourist state Goa is evaluating restrictions mirroring Australia’s approach, signaling potential nationwide implications.

    The United States maintains its Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act prohibiting data collection from children under 13 without parental consent, though state-level initiatives for broader restrictions have faced legal challenges on free speech grounds.

    Despite tech industry self-regulation requiring users to be at least 13, child protection advocates argue these measures prove insufficient. Official European data reveals significant numbers of children under 13 maintain active social media accounts, highlighting the enforcement challenges facing these new regulatory frameworks.

  • ‘My prosthetic leg represents my love for this country’

    ‘My prosthetic leg represents my love for this country’

    At a prominent fashion showcase in Ghana, 33-year-old model and writer Abena Christine Jon’el commanded attention not merely through her presence on the catwalk, but through her powerful statement about disability visibility. Her prosthetic leg, elegantly wrapped in vibrant African kente cloth, became both a cultural symbol and a declaration of identity during last month’s Rhythms on the Runway event in Accra.

    Abena’s journey to the runway began decades earlier when a rare rhabdomyosarcoma tumor appeared on her right calf at age two. Faced with the impossible choice between radiation treatment that might leave her wheelchair-dependent or amputation, her mother chose the latter. “It was the best decision she could have made,” Abena affirms without hesitation, speaking from a restaurant in Ghana’s capital surrounded by friends and family.

    Her early life in Chicago was shaped by treatment and recovery, with movement becoming both a measure of survival and a means of rebuilding confidence. Contrary to stereotypical narratives of inspirational disabled children, Abena describes herself as “loud, a little black girl running around on one leg” who refused to be pushed around despite academic struggles.

    This unapologetic authenticity became her professional strength. After working as a poet and public speaker in the US, a transformative visit to Ghana’s Assin Manso slave river site in 2021 triggered what she describes as “a moment that rearranged my entire understanding of myself.” The profound connection to her ancestral land led to her permanent relocation just three months later, despite experiencing deep depression upon initially leaving Ghana.

    Now embracing her identity as “Ghanaian by ancestry and adoption,” Abena has found belonging through a Ghanaian mother who introduces her as her own daughter. Her advocacy work has shifted focus to addressing the stark contrast between disability representation in the US and Ghana. While acknowledging America’s imperfect progress toward inclusion, she notes that Ghana remains at the beginning of this journey—not from lack of compassion, but from lack of representation.

    “In Ghana, disabled people have not been widely showcased in a positive light,” she explains. “So stigma thrives. People do not see us in powerful or beautiful or joyful positions, they see us only in struggle.”

    Her runway appearance marked a deliberate intervention in this narrative. After directly approaching event organizers, Abena understood her presence would force a long-delayed conversation about inclusion. The resulting moment became one of the evening’s most discussed highlights, with Ghana’s Tourism, Culture and Arts Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie noting that “her strength showed right through, speaking volumes.”

    Fashion show organizer Shirley Emma Tibilla described Abena’s walk as “a powerful affirmation that talent, beauty, and confidence know no limitations,” while entrepreneur Dentaa Amoateng celebrated it as demonstrating “what true inclusion looks like.”

    For Abena, the applause mattered less than the message: disabled people were not mere spectators but center stage. Standing at the intersection of identity, disability, heritage and fashion, she represents a new path forward for Ghana—one where inclusion is boldly demanded rather than quietly suggested.

    Her journey from cancer patient to cultural icon represents not just survival but reclamation: of identity, mobility, belonging, and place in a country that “fought for me before I even stepped foot here.” Whether on runways, behind microphones, or mentoring young amputees, Abena refuses to dim her light—or let others like her be dimmed.

    As she states definitively: “Disability is not a limitation. Having a disability is not what makes you disabled. Lack of support, lack of accessibility—that is what disables you.”

  • Dubai to construct world’s first street made of gold

    Dubai to construct world’s first street made of gold

    Dubai has unveiled plans to construct the world’s first street made entirely of gold as part of its newly launched Gold District, reaffirming its status as a global hub for precious metals trade. The groundbreaking announcement came during the official inauguration of Ithra Dubai’s Gold District, though specific technical details and construction timelines will be revealed progressively in phased announcements.

    The Gold District, positioned as the emirate’s comprehensive ‘Home of Gold,’ consolidates all gold and jewelry-related activities into a single destination. This integrated complex encompasses retail operations, bullion trading, wholesale commerce, and investment opportunities. Currently housing over 1,000 retailers across multiple sectors including perfumes, cosmetics, and lifestyle products, the district has already attracted major international jewelry brands.

    Notable flagship establishments include Jawhara Jewellery, Malabar Gold and Diamonds, Al Romaizan, and Tanishq Jewellery. Joyalukkas has announced ambitious plans for a 24,000 square foot flagship store, marking what will become its largest presence in the Middle East region.

    Issam Galadari, CEO of Ithra Dubai, emphasized that the Dubai Gold District strategically “unites heritage, scale and opportunity” in the precious metals market. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), highlighted the cultural significance, stating: “Gold is deeply woven into the cultural and commercial fabric of Dubai, symbolising our heritage, prosperity, and enduring spirit of enterprise. Through this landmark destination, we not only celebrate that legacy but also reimagine it for a new era shaped by creativity and sustainability.”

    The development builds upon the UAE’s substantial gold trading credentials, having exported approximately $53.41 billion worth of gold between 2024-2025. The country maintains its position as the world’s second-largest physical gold trading destination, with major trading partners including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, India, Hong Kong, and Turkey.

  • Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone on Oman-UAE border to boost trade

    Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone on Oman-UAE border to boost trade

    A transformative economic initiative is taking shape at the Oman-UAE border with the development of the Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone. This ambitious project, spanning approximately 14 square kilometers in its initial phase, represents a significant collaboration between the two Gulf nations through the Emirati-Omani joint venture Mahadha Development Company. UAE-based global logistics leader DP World serves as the majority partner in this strategic development.

    The zone’s strategic positioning offers exceptional connectivity advantages, featuring direct access to Oman’s primary road infrastructure and proximity to major regional logistics centers including Sohar Port and Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port. Located in the Al Rawdah District of Mahdah Wilayat, the development sits approximately 85 kilometers from Al Buraimi and 125 kilometers from Sohar, creating an optimal gateway for cross-border trade and industrial cooperation.

    According to recent high-level discussions between Omani officials and DP World leadership, the economic zone’s implementation roadmap is now advancing. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, emphasized the project’s strategic significance: “The Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone represents a strategic platform for enabling seamless trade, industrial growth, and regional connectivity between Oman and the UAE. We are committed to leveraging our global expertise in logistics and economic zone development to create a competitive, future-ready ecosystem.”

    The development anticipates substantial expansion, with plans to potentially grow to 24 square kilometers in a second phase based on investor response and long-term growth projections. The zone is expected to attract substantial investments across multiple sectors including logistics, light manufacturing, and industrial services, while simultaneously supporting job creation, knowledge transfer, and Oman’s broader economic diversification goals outlined in Vision 2040.

  • RAKBank posts Dh2.6 billion record profit on its 50th anniversary

    RAKBank posts Dh2.6 billion record profit on its 50th anniversary

    RAKBank has achieved unprecedented financial success during its milestone 50th anniversary year, reporting a record-breaking net profit of Dh2.6 billion for 2025. This represents a substantial 25.7 percent increase compared to the previous year’s Dh2.07 billion, underscoring the institution’s robust performance across multiple business segments.

    The bank demonstrated even stronger quarterly results, with profit after tax surging 36.9 percent to reach Dh529 million. Total operating income climbed to Dh5.2 billion, marking a 10 percent year-on-year increase, while net interest income grew by 3.5 percent to Dh3.7 billion.

    Despite increased volume-related expenses and strategic investments, RAKBank maintained disciplined financial management with operating expenses of Dh1.9 billion and a cost-to-income ratio of 35.8 percent. Notably, the net impairment charge decreased significantly by 42 percent to Dh451 million, reflecting improved asset quality.

    The institution reached a historic milestone by crossing Dh100 billion in total assets for the first time, with customer deposits growing to Dh70 billion. According to Group CEO Raheel Ahmed, this achievement demonstrates the bank’s financial resilience and the sustained trust of its customer base.

    RAKBank’s microfinance program demonstrated substantial social impact, disbursing over 593,000 loans valued at Dh344 million to blue-collar workers. Chairman Mohamed Omran Alshamsi emphasized these initiatives help customers manage essential needs and build financial resilience.

    The bank’s success was fueled by strategic product innovations including the premium Elevate Credit Card and new Elite Banking Centres across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah. In the SME sector, RAKBank onboarded more than 22,000 entrepreneurs with Dh4.7 billion in disbursed loans, while introducing digital solutions like Speed-e-pay and QR Code-based payments through AANI to enhance cash flow efficiency and scalability.