标签： Africa

In the early hours of the morning, Tholakele Nkwanyana and members of Operation Dudula, a South African anti-immigrant group, gather at the Diepsloot public health clinic in Johannesburg. Their mission is not to seek medical care but to prevent foreigners from accessing it. Dressed in military-style attire, they block the clinic’s entrance, demanding identity documents and turning away mothers with children and the sick, directing them to private hospitals that charge fees. This scene has become increasingly common across Gauteng, South Africa’s most populous province, as healthcare becomes the latest flashpoint in the nation’s contentious immigration debate. Despite a Johannesburg High Court order to cease harassing migrants, Operation Dudula vows to appeal, claiming their actions prioritize South Africans amid a perceived overburdening of resources. South Africa, Africa’s most developed economy, attracts migrants from neighboring countries like Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho, as well as from Nigeria and Ethiopia. In the year ending March 31, nearly 47,000 undocumented migrants were deported, an 18% increase from the previous year. Operation Dudula, which has grown in visibility, has also targeted foreign-owned businesses and schools, accusing migrants of exacerbating South Africa’s 31% unemployment rate. The group’s organized structure, including regional leaders and public engagements, hints at potential political ambitions. South Africa’s government condemns these actions, emphasizing that healthcare is a universal right. However, police resources are stretched thin in a country with high crime rates, limiting their ability to protect clinics. Recent arrests of Operation Dudula members in Soweto highlight the group’s aggressive tactics. The South African Human Rights Commission warns of a global rise in anti-immigrant sentiment, urging against scapegoating migrants for systemic healthcare failures. South Africa spends 8.5% of its GDP on healthcare, yet faces overcrowded hospitals, medication shortages, and crumbling infrastructure. Meanwhile, migrants like Blessing Tizirai and Nonhlanhla Moyo, who fled Zimbabwe’s collapsed public health system, face life-threatening barriers to care. As tensions escalate, Zimbabwe’s government refuses to fund its citizens’ treatment in South Africa, even as its political elite seek medical care abroad.

In a traditionally male-dominated industry, Huda Al Matroushi has emerged as a trailblazer, becoming the UAE’s first female car mechanic. Her journey, fueled by a childhood passion for automobiles, has transformed into a thriving business that challenges societal norms and inspires countless individuals. Huda’s story gained national prominence when UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan humorously requested her to repair his car during a congratulatory phone call. This moment underscored the significance of her achievements and the pride the nation takes in her success. Huda’s journey began in 2006, driven by curiosity and a desire to understand the mechanics of cars. She spent her university breaks in garages, even intentionally damaging her own vehicle to learn repair techniques. What started as a hobby—fixing cars for friends and family—has now evolved into a full-fledged garage in Sharjah. Despite facing skepticism and challenges, Huda’s determination has never wavered. She recalls instances where customers doubted her expertise, only to return satisfied with her work. Her commitment to excellence and community service has earned her widespread recognition. Huda’s story was recently shared at the 10th Knowledge Summit in Dubai, where she emphasized the importance of modernizing traditional professions and inspiring the next generation to embrace manual skills. Her vision extends beyond her garage; she aims to empower individuals to take charge of their vehicles and break free from gender stereotypes. Huda’s journey is a testament to the UAE’s progressive spirit and its commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity.

For the second year running, Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has collaborated with Dubai Holding Entertainment (DHE) and ImInclusive to promote equality and accessibility through innovative design. Their joint project, the Dome of Inclusion, was unveiled at Dubai Design Week, with Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, attending the opening ceremony. The installation, designed by CUD’s School of Architecture and Interior Design in partnership with ImInclusive, features interlocking hexagons and pentagons symbolizing unity through diversity. The hexagons represent six guiding principles: collaboration, creativity, inclusion, empowerment, innovation, and unity, while the pentagons signify five key areas of disability: physical, sensory, neurodiversity, intellectual, and psychosocial. Constructed from sustainable cardboard, the Dome showcases original artwork by People of Determination, turning design into a platform for accessibility and shared expression. The project highlights the talent and creativity of the disabled community, blending academic knowledge with lived experience. Sara Badr, a third-year interior design student involved in the project, emphasized the installation’s focus on collaboration and empowerment. Alanood Al Hashemi, VP of Organisational Culture and Impact at DHE, praised the initiative for bridging education, inclusion, and design. Massimo Imparato, dean of CUD’s School of Architecture and Interior Design, highlighted the project’s role in connecting students with industry professionals and celebrating the contributions of People of Determination to the UAE’s creative community.