Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed concerns on Tuesday that her government might lose access to crucial international funding, which has been a lifeline for the nation. This warning comes in the wake of the most severe election violence in the country’s history. The October 29 elections were marred by three days of protests, with the opposition claiming over 2,000 fatalities and hundreds arrested on treason charges. Although some detainees were later released, the unrest has cast a shadow over Tanzania’s political stability. President Hassan, who secured over 97% of the vote after the exclusion of major opposition candidates, emphasized the need to seek internal funding. “We must utilize our God-given resources to sustain our development projects,” she stated. The violence saw youth vandalizing polling stations, police stations, and bus terminals, with the military deployed to quell the chaos. Despite a return to calm following Hassan’s inauguration and her pledge to restore peace, the political climate remains tense. A Commonwealth delegation, led by Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera, is set to engage with Tanzanian officials, political representatives, and civil society to address the situation. Tanzania, long considered peaceful despite allegations of repression, now faces a critical juncture in its political and economic trajectory.
标签： Africa
非洲
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UAE bank customers want tech that ‘feels human’; how firms are redesigning services
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, UAE bank customers are demanding technology that combines speed, convenience, and personalization while retaining a human touch. This sentiment was highlighted by Gilbert Jadallah, Regional Sales Manager at Tungsten Automation, during a fireside chat at the 4th Banking Innovation and Technology Summit 2025, hosted by Khaleej Times on November 18. Jadallah emphasized that banks must overhaul not only their customer-facing applications but also their internal workflows to meet these expectations. By automating processes such as onboarding, KYC, lending, and trade, banks can reduce paperwork and allocate more time to client support. Jadallah noted, ‘Customers in the UAE want fast, simple, and personalized services. They also want digital journeys to feel human. To achieve that, banks have to free their staff from friction in the back office.’ The summit, now in its fifth edition, brought together senior leaders from banks, fintech firms, and regulatory bodies to explore how technology is reshaping financial services in the UAE. Moderated by Priyadarshinee Awatramani, Executive Director and Head of Client Experience at Standard Chartered Bank, the session delved into balancing empathy and efficiency in an increasingly digital banking sector. Awatramani stressed the importance of maintaining trust and the human element in a data-driven industry. Jadallah highlighted the potential of real-time data integration, explaining that many banks operate with disconnected data silos, which hinder their ability to anticipate customer needs. By leveraging automation platforms, banks can gain real-time insights, detect potential fraud, and respond proactively. ‘Real-time insights allow banks to move from reactive to proactive. That is where timely empathy comes in, being there for customers before they ask,’ he said. Awatramani added that scaling empathy across digital touchpoints requires responsible data usage and designing supportive customer journeys. The summit continues to serve as a vital platform for CEOs, CIOs, regulators, and fintech founders to collaborate and drive the UAE’s growth as a global hub for finance and technology.
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MacArthur Foundation awards $100M to outbreak surveillance network, a boost amid global health cuts
The MacArthur Foundation has announced a $100 million grant to Sentinel, an African-led initiative focused on pandemic prevention and infectious disease surveillance. This significant investment comes at a critical time when global health funding is dwindling, particularly from major donor nations. Sentinel, a project that develops cost-effective pathogen detection tests, employs real-time outbreak tracking tools, and trains local scientists, has already trained over 3,000 public health workers across 53 African countries. The funding will enable Sentinel to expand its reach over the next five years, enhancing its ability to detect and respond to emerging diseases swiftly. Christian Happi, co-director of Sentinel, emphasized that this initiative demonstrates Africa’s leadership in addressing global health challenges through trust, collaboration, and community-driven systems. The MacArthur Foundation’s 100&Change competition, which aims to inspire bold philanthropic endeavors, selected Sentinel for its innovative and impactful approach. Chris Cardona, the foundation’s managing director, highlighted the importance of international funding, especially for projects like Sentinel that build cross-country capacity. However, global health programs face increasing challenges as donor countries reduce multilateral support. For instance, Gavi, a public-private vaccine alliance, faces funding shortfalls due to cuts by the U.S. government. Similarly, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has scaled back collaboration with the World Health Organization, potentially hindering outbreak responses. Sentinel’s work, rooted in community engagement and advanced diagnostics, aims to empower local responders to detect and mitigate disease threats. Dr. Pardis Sabeti, a collaborator on the project, described the grant as transformative, stressing the need for continuous pandemic surveillance. Former USAID official Nidhi Bouri underscored the global responsibility to support diverse funding streams for health initiatives, as disease outbreaks have far-reaching consequences. This grant not only bolsters Sentinel’s efforts but also sets a precedent for philanthropy to address global health challenges collaboratively.
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Look: Zubeen Garg’s wife remembers late singer on his 53rd birthday
Garima Garg, the widow of renowned Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, commemorated what would have been his 53rd birthday with an emotional tribute on November 18. Taking to Instagram, she shared a heartfelt post featuring cherished moments from their life together since their marriage in 2002. Garima expressed her profound grief and the void left by his absence, reminiscing about the memories they created and the deep bond they shared. Zubeen Garg, a celebrated figure in the Indian music industry, was known for his contributions to Assamese culture and his work in Hindi and Bengali cinema. His untimely demise on September 19 has left a significant impact on his fans and the music community. In a fitting tribute, his last film, *Roi Roi Binale*, was released last month in Guwahati, receiving an overwhelming response from audiences. Director Rajesh Bhuyan described the film as a fulfillment of Zubeen’s dream and a gift to the people of Assam. Meanwhile, the Assam government has formed a Special Investigative Team (SIT) to probe his death, with seven individuals already in judicial custody. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma assured that the SIT will submit a chargesheet by December 8, seeking justice for the late singer.
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Dozens of pregnant women flee from Sudan’s el-Fasher, risking their lives and babies
In the midst of Sudan’s ongoing conflict, pregnant women like Nadra Mohamed Ahmed are enduring unimaginable hardships. Ahmed, seven months pregnant, fled her hometown of el-Fasher in West Darfur, trekking nearly 40 kilometers with her two children to reach a displacement camp in al-Dabbah. Her journey was fraught with danger and exhaustion, culminating in severe health complications that required intensive medical care. Ahmed’s story is emblematic of the broader crisis facing Sudanese women, as the country’s healthcare system collapses under the weight of war. According to the Sudan Doctors Network, over 140 pregnant women have arrived at al-Dabbah camps since el-Fasher’s fall, many suffering from severe complications such as hemorrhaging and miscarriages. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group, have exacerbated the crisis by targeting civilians and healthcare facilities, leaving thousands of pregnant women without access to life-saving maternal care. The conflict, which began in 2023, has displaced 12 million people and claimed at least 40,000 lives, according to the World Health Organization. Pregnant and lactating women are particularly vulnerable, facing malnutrition and the risk of violence as they forage for food. The international community has called for urgent action to address the humanitarian crisis, but the situation remains dire for women like Ahmed, who continue to struggle for survival in a war-torn nation.
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R&B Fashion wins ‘Most Admired Value Retailer’ at SRF RetailMe Awards 2025
R&B Fashion, a prominent homegrown brand under the Apparel Group, has been honored with the ‘Most Admired Value Retailer’ title at the esteemed SRF RetailMe Awards 2025. The award ceremony, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, celebrated outstanding achievements in retail innovation and customer satisfaction. This accolade underscores R&B Fashion’s dedication to providing exceptional value while maintaining high standards of style and quality, solidifying its reputation as a leading fashion destination across the GCC region. The brand’s success is rooted in its ability to deeply understand customer needs and consistently surpass expectations. R&B Fashion’s winning strategy combines trendy designs, affordable pricing, and a customer-centric approach, which has resonated strongly with value-conscious shoppers. With a rapidly expanding presence of over 180 stores across 75 cities in 8 countries, the brand is on track to reach the milestone of 250 stores. R&B Fashion’s extensive product range, strategic sourcing for competitive pricing, and seamless shopping experience across both physical and digital platforms have been key drivers of its success. Additionally, the brand has invested significantly in understanding regional fashion trends and tailoring its offerings to meet local preferences. As R&B Fashion celebrates this significant achievement, it remains steadfast in its commitment to affordability, quality, and customer satisfaction, aiming to set new benchmarks in the value retail segment.
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Two schoolgirls escape Nigeria kidnap ordeal, official says
In a harrowing incident on Monday, armed assailants stormed an all-girls’ boarding school in Kebbi state, north-western Nigeria, kidnapping at least 25 students and a teacher. Amid the chaos, two girls managed to escape their captors by fleeing into nearby farmland, according to Hussaini Aliyu, a local official from Danko Wasagu council. While both girls are now safe, one required medical attention for injuries sustained during her escape. Security forces, including soldiers, police, and volunteers, are conducting extensive searches in forested areas to rescue the remaining captives. Major General Waidi Shaibu, Nigeria’s army chief of staff, has urged troops to persist in their efforts, emphasizing the urgency of the mission. The attackers, described as ‘bandits,’ invaded the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga town at approximately 04:00 local time. Tragically, two staff members lost their lives during the assault: a teacher who died while protecting the students and a security guard who succumbed to gunshot wounds in the hospital. This attack underscores the ongoing security crisis in northern Nigeria, where schools have become frequent targets for armed groups seeking ransom or political leverage. Families of the abducted children are enduring immense anguish, with one father expressing his despair over his daughter’s captivity. Nigerian authorities, including President Bola Tinubu, have pledged their commitment to rescuing the girls and ensuring the safety of all citizens, particularly schoolchildren.
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UAE to introduce nasal spray flu vaccine for first time: Emarat Al Youm
In a groundbreaking move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to introduce a nasal spray flu vaccine for the first time, as reported by Emarat Al Youm. This innovative needle-free option will be available in both public and private healthcare centers and hospitals across the country, marking a significant expansion in the nation’s immunization strategy. The vaccine, which covers the same flu strains as the traditional injectable version, is designed for healthy individuals aged 2 to 49 years old. It utilizes a live attenuated virus, making it an ideal choice for children and those who are apprehensive about needles. The Ministry of Health and Prevention emphasized that this new option aims to enhance vaccination coverage rates and provide safe, effective alternatives for the community. Dr. Nada Al Marzouqi, Director of the Public Health and Prevention Department, highlighted that the nasal spray vaccine first received U.S. FDA approval in 2003 for ages 5 to 49, with the age range later extended to include children as young as 2 in 2007. However, the vaccine is not recommended for certain groups, including children under 2, adults over 50, pregnant women, individuals with immune disorders, and those with specific chronic diseases. For these groups, the injectable vaccine or other physician-recommended options remain the preferred choice. The Ministry assured that the nasal spray vaccine is registered in the UAE and subject to rigorous pharmaceutical oversight, with approvals from global regulatory bodies such as the FDA, WHO, and EMA. Additionally, the UAE’s pharmacovigilance program will monitor the vaccine’s side effects and effectiveness to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality.
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Prime Minister oversees signing of 55 pacts in major push for Egypt’s offshoring industry
In a landmark move to strengthen its position in the global offshoring industry, Egypt has inked 55 strategic agreements with leading multinational and local technology firms. The signing ceremony, held under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly and attended by Dr. Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, marks a significant milestone in Egypt’s journey to becoming a global delivery powerhouse. The partnerships include major players such as Teleperformance, Accenture, Deloitte, VOIS, Luxoft, RSA, and Capgemini, underscoring Egypt’s growing appeal as a hub for digital and business services. These agreements are expected to create over 70,000 high-value jobs, particularly in business process outsourcing (BPO), IT, engineering, and high-end technology services. This initiative aligns with the Information Technology Industry Development Agency’s (ITIDA) strategic goals to attract foreign investment, generate sustainable employment, and position Egypt as a trusted partner for global enterprises. Dr. Talaat highlighted Egypt’s RISE framework—Reliable talent, Infrastructure readiness, Strategic proximity, and Efficient cost structure—as key drivers of the country’s success. Eng. Ahmed Elzaher, CEO of ITIDA, emphasized the significance of these partnerships in advancing Egypt’s digital economy and expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to meet global market demands. The agreements not only reflect strong investor confidence but also demonstrate Egypt’s commitment to empowering its workforce with future-ready skills and fostering a knowledge-based economy.
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SelfDrive Mobility launches the region’s first conversational AI car rental reservation system
SelfDrive Mobility, a leading UAE-based smart mobility innovator, has unveiled the SelfDrive Intelligence Assistant (SIA), the region’s first commercially launched conversational AI system for car rentals. This groundbreaking technology, accessible via the SelfDrive website and mobile app, supports over 40 languages and offers an intuitive, human-like booking experience. SIA transforms the traditionally complex car rental process into a seamless, conversational interaction, allowing users to search, compare, and book vehicles effortlessly in their preferred language. The system’s advanced capabilities include contextual understanding, adaptive recommendations, and real-time personalization, ensuring a faster, smarter, and more personalized experience for users. Soham Shah, founder and CEO of SelfDrive Mobility, emphasized that SIA bridges the gap between AI efficiency and human-centric service, automating routine tasks while enabling customer agents to focus on higher-value interactions. The launch aligns with the UAE’s national AI vision, positioning the country as a global leader in intelligent technology adoption. Since its soft launch, SelfDrive has seen a 25% increase in AI-driven bookings, reflecting strong consumer trust and enthusiasm. To celebrate the official launch, SelfDrive is offering exclusive discounts, including Dh100 off monthly rentals and Dh50 off daily or weekly bookings. SIA is now live and ready to revolutionize the car rental experience at www.selfdrive.ae.