Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Ethiopia PM hits out at Eritrea over atrocities in Tigray

    Ethiopia PM hits out at Eritrea over atrocities in Tigray

    In a dramatic parliamentary address, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has publicly condemned Eritrean military forces for committing widespread atrocities during the devastating Tigray conflict that ravaged northern Ethiopia from 2020-2022. This marks the first official admission from Addis Ababa regarding Eritrea’s involvement in mass killings, specifically referencing the November 2020 Aksum massacre that Asmara had consistently denied.

    The Prime Minister detailed how Eritrean troops, who fought alongside Ethiopian government forces against Tigrayan rebels, engaged in systematic destruction across multiple cities including Adwa, Aksum, Adigrat and Shire. According to Abiy’s testimony, these operations included wholesale demolition of residential properties, looting of civilian possessions, destruction of industrial infrastructure, and seizure of manufacturing machinery.

    This condemnation represents the latest deterioration in the volatile relationship between these Horn of Africa neighbors, whose alliance has historically oscillated between cooperation and hostility. The current tensions stem partly from Ethiopia’s persistent quest for Red Sea access through Eritrean territory and recent allegations of shifting allegiances in Tigray.

    The 2022 Pretoria Agreement that formally ended the Tigray conflict excluded Eritrea as a signatory, with Asmara having opposed the peace deal for not achieving the complete military defeat of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Independent investigations by organizations including Amnesty International had previously documented extensive human rights violations during the conflict, with Eritrean forces accused of some of the most severe atrocities.

    The timing of Abiy’s statement coincides with renewed regional tensions, including a five-day suspension of passenger flights between Addis Ababa and Tigrayan cities following recent clashes in western Tigray. These developments have raised concerns among international observers about potential renewed hostilities in the region where the African Union estimates approximately 600,000 lives were lost during the two-year war.

  • Somali woman executed for murdering a child in a case that sparked outrage

    Somali woman executed for murdering a child in a case that sparked outrage

    In an unprecedented judicial development, the semi-autonomous Somali region of Puntland has carried out the execution of a woman convicted of murdering her teenage domestic worker. Hodan Mohamud Diiriye, 34, faced a firing squad in Galkayo on Tuesday following her conviction for the brutal beating death of 14-year-old Saabirin Saylaan.

    The case, which concluded with a death sentence at the end of last year, represents the first female execution in over a decade under Puntland’s retaliatory sentencing system. The murder occurred in November when Saylaan, an orphaned child worker, succumbed to injuries sustained during what investigators described as “routine physical abuse” during her two-month employment with Diiriye’s family.

    Evidence presented during trial included disturbing audio and video recordings recovered from the perpetrator’s phone, documenting systematic violence against the victim. In one particularly chilling audio clip, Diiriye could be heard stating: “I’m enjoying your pain.” A post-mortem examination confirmed multiple injuries and deep stab wounds consistent with prolonged torture.

    The execution was conducted under the Islamic legal principle of “qisas,” which allows victims’ families to demand capital punishment rather than accept financial compensation. Mudug regional governor Faysal Sheikh Ali confirmed that representatives from both families witnessed the sentence carried out, in accordance with local decree requiring enforcement of Islamic law in such cases.

    The case has ignited widespread public outrage and prompted calls for enhanced child protection measures across Somalia, where abuse often remains unreported, particularly within extended family structures. Hundreds of protesters marched through Galkayo carrying signs demanding “Justice for Saabirin” and calling for accountability in domestic worker abuse cases.

    Community leaders, activists, and elders have subsequently advocated for strengthened legal protections for vulnerable children and domestic workers, highlighting systemic vulnerabilities within the current framework.

  • After losing Dh29, gold prices recover Dh19 per gram in UAE

    After losing Dh29, gold prices recover Dh19 per gram in UAE

    Dubai’s gold market witnessed a significant recovery on Tuesday morning as prices surged by Dh19 per gram, partially offsetting the substantial losses incurred during the previous trading session. The precious metal’s 24K variant climbed to Dh579.75 per gram at market opening, marking a notable reversal from Monday’s decline of nearly Dh29.

    The price resurgence extended across all gold variants, with 22K reaching Dh537.0, 21K at Dh514.75, 18K trading at Dh441.25, and 14K rising to Dh344.25 per gram. This domestic recovery mirrored global trends where spot gold experienced an impressive surge of over four percent, reaching $4,829 per ounce.

    This market movement follows Friday’s dramatic repricing event that saw metals undergo their steepest declines in decades. Gold entered a pronounced corrective phase after achieving historic peaks near the $5,600 level, subsequently retreating below $4,900—representing a single-session loss exceeding nine percent.

    Despite this volatility, financial institution JP Morgan maintains a strongly bullish medium-term outlook for gold. The firm has projected potential prices reaching $6,300 per ounce by the end of 2026, driven primarily by sustained demand from central banks and investors. According to their analysis, central banks are expected to purchase approximately 800 tonnes of gold this year alone.

    Market analysts emphasize that the long-term structural narrative supporting gold remains firmly intact. Ahmad Assiri, Research Strategist at Pepperstone, noted that ‘central banks’ price-insensitive accumulation of reserves’ continues to provide fundamental support despite recent market fluctuations. The diversification trend away from paper assets toward real assets appears well-entrenched and likely to continue, suggesting ongoing strength in the gold market despite short-term volatility.

  • Second peak of flu season in UAE? Doctors say never too late to get vaccinated

    Second peak of flu season in UAE? Doctors say never too late to get vaccinated

    The United Arab Emirates is confronting an unexpected extension of its influenza season, with medical professionals reporting consistently elevated case numbers throughout January and February rather than the typical decline. Healthcare facilities across the nation are witnessing increased patient volumes presenting with classic flu symptoms including fever, persistent cough, and profound fatigue, particularly affecting family units, elderly citizens, and young children.

    Medical experts clarify that influenza patterns typically unfold in two distinct phases. Influenza A strains typically dominate the initial winter surge between December and January, while Influenza B variants commonly peak during February through April. This biological pattern means individuals who avoided illness during the earlier winter months remain vulnerable to subsequent infection.

    Dr. Rehab Yousuf Al Saadi, Specialist in Family Medicine and Department Head at Saudi German Hospital, Dubai, confirms this atypical pattern: “We’re observing sustained influenza activity in the UAE and globally heading into late January and February, which traditionally represents peak season. Case numbers are significantly higher than anticipated for this period following an initial surge connected to travel and post-holiday social interactions.”

    Physicians attribute this prolonged season to multiple converging factors: cooler temperatures driving indoor congregation, post-travel social gatherings, and insufficient vaccination coverage within communities. The current epidemiological pattern suggests sustained community transmission rather than isolated outbreaks.

    High-risk demographics include adults over 65, children under five, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing conditions such as respiratory disorders, cardiac conditions, renal disease, hepatic impairment, or compromised immune systems. Characteristic symptoms comprise high-grade fever (37.8–40°C), extreme exhaustion, sore throat, non-productive cough, myalgia, and rhinorrhea.

    Health authorities emphasize that influenza vaccination remains effective even at this stage of the season. The current vaccine formulation provides protection against both Influenza A and B strains, substantially reducing hospitalization risk and severe complications even when not preventing infection entirely.

    Preventive recommendations include rigorous hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette through cough covering, voluntary isolation when symptomatic, and maintaining robust immune health through balanced nutrition, adequate rest, and proper hydration. Medical attention should be sought immediately for concerning symptoms including respiratory distress, persistent high fever, disorientation, or chest pain and pressure.

  • South Africa’s ex-President Zuma mentioned in Epstein emails over London dinner plan

    South Africa’s ex-President Zuma mentioned in Epstein emails over London dinner plan

    Newly unsealed court documents from the Jeffrey Epstein case have revealed former South African President Jacob Zuma’s connection to a 2010 London dinner arranged by the convicted sex offender. The emails, released as part of ongoing legal proceedings, detail Epstein’s personal involvement in organizing a gathering for Zuma during his official state visit to the United Kingdom in March 2010.

    According to the correspondence, Epstein coordinated through an associate to extend invitations for a “small dinner” at the Ritz Hotel honoring President Zuma. One particularly revealing email exchange shows the invitation of a Russian model, described in subsequent messages as having “enchanted all those she met” with her “elegance and natural charm.” The model specifically inquired about dress code appropriateness for the presidential event.

    In separate communications, Epstein directly contacted British politician Lord Peter Mandelson, explicitly mentioning his invitation of a “beautiful Russian” model to accompany Zuma’s dinner. While Mandelson’s response remains undocumented, follow-up correspondence between Epstein and another attendee praised Zuma as “much more impressive and engaging than I thought he would be.”

    The Jacob Zuma Foundation has vehemently denounced media coverage of these revelations, characterizing them as “agenda-driven journalism built on innuendo” and “retrospective guilt by association.” In an official statement, the foundation emphasized that no allegations of unlawful or improper conduct by Zuma have been substantiated, dismissing the reports as “intellectually dishonest” attempts to smear the former president through proximity to Epstein’s crimes.

    Historical context confirms Zuma was indeed on an official state visit to the UK from March 3-5, 2010, corresponding with the dinner date referenced in the emails. Epstein, the convicted sex offender and financier at the center of the scandal, died by suicide in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.

  • Dubai at Grammys 2026: Style icon Karen Wazen walks the red carpet

    Dubai at Grammys 2026: Style icon Karen Wazen walks the red carpet

    The 68th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in 2026 witnessed a significant moment of Middle Eastern representation as Dubai-based Lebanese style icon Karen Wazen graced the prestigious red carpet. The prominent content creator and fashion influencer captivated attendees in a bespoke shimmering gold ensemble crafted by renowned Lebanese designer Nicolas Jebran.

    With an Instagram following exceeding 8 million, Wazen represents one of the Arab world’s most influential fashion voices. Her appearance marked a cultural milestone, with the influencer expressing profound gratitude for the opportunity. On her social media platforms, she reflected: “What a day… Grateful to @grammys & @cbstv for the experience. My 16-year-old self would never believe!!! Still processing it all.”

    During an exclusive interview with Virgin Radio Dubai’s Kris Fade on the red carpet, Wazen conveyed her pride in representing the region on music’s global stage. Despite her extensive experience as a global ambassador for wearable brand Whoop and veteran attendance at high-profile events including the Cannes Film Festival, she admitted to experiencing pre-ceremony nerves. “I always get nervous before any red carpet, but I have to say this one was very, very special,” she confessed. “Everywhere you turn, it’s like one celebrity after another. So it’s quite cool.”

    When questioned about her most anticipated performance of the evening, Wazen immediately identified Justin Bieber as her top choice. Beyond her influencer status, Wazen maintains her namesake eyewear brand and has graced the covers of Harper’s Bazaar Arabia and Elle Arabia while establishing partnerships with luxury fashion houses including Dior and Prada.

  • Banknote bouquets could land you in jail, Kenya’s central bank warns

    Banknote bouquets could land you in jail, Kenya’s central bank warns

    The Central Bank of Kenya has issued a formal warning against the increasingly popular practice of transforming banknotes into floral-style bouquets, a trend that has gained significant traction through social media influencers and celebrity endorsements. These monetary arrangements, particularly popular during Valentine’s Day celebrations, involve meticulously rolling and fastening currency notes of various denominations to resemble traditional flower bouquets.

    In an official statement released Monday, the banking authority clarified that such creative manipulations constitute defacement of national currency, an offense punishable by up to seven years imprisonment under Kenyan law. The bank detailed how the practice involves folding, rolling, gluing, stapling, and pinning notes together using adhesives and fastening materials, ultimately compromising their structural integrity.

    The technical consequences have proven substantial, with damaged notes causing operational disruptions across automated teller machines (ATMs) and cash-counting equipment. This has resulted in increased currency rejection rates and generated unnecessary replacement costs for both financial institutions and the public.

    Despite these restrictions, the central bank emphasized it does not oppose monetary gifting traditions, instead encouraging alternative presentation methods that preserve note quality. The timing of this announcement proves particularly significant given Kenya’s status as a leading global flower producer, with many citizens noting the irony of choosing currency manipulations over fresh floral arrangements.

    Social media reactions have ranged from amused to supportive, with some commentators praising the regulation as a welcome relief from expensive and wasteful gifting practices. The announcement has sparked broader discussions about cultural traditions, economic practicality, and appropriate Valentine’s Day celebrations in the East African nation.

  • Families mourn those killed in a Congo mine landslide as some survivors prepare to return

    Families mourn those killed in a Congo mine landslide as some survivors prepare to return

    GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo — Eastern Congo confronts a devastating tragedy as communities mourn the loss of at least 200 artisanal miners killed in a catastrophic landslide at the rebel-controlled Rubaya coltan mining complex. The disaster struck last Wednesday following torrential rains, collapsing a network of hand-dug tunnels and trapping an unknown number of workers who remain missing.

    The mining site, located approximately 40 kilometers west of Goma, has been under the control of Rwandan-backed M23 rebels since early 2024. It employs thousands of miners who extract valuable minerals using rudimentary tools and techniques passed down through generations.

    In Goma’s Mugunga neighborhood, the family of 39-year-old Bosco Nguvumali Kalabosh gathered in mourning. His photograph displayed against a wall served as the centerpiece for grieving relatives and neighbors. “He was supposed to return to Goma on Thursday,” lamented his older brother, Thimothée Kalabosh Nzanga. Kalabosh, a decade-long veteran of the mines who owned his own pits, leaves behind a widow and four young children.

    Despite the overwhelming loss, economic necessity drives survivors back to the hazardous worksite. Tumaini Munguiko, who survived the collapse while losing five friends and his older brother, explained the grim reality: “Seeing our peers die is very painful. But despite the pain, we are forced to return to the mines to survive.” Munguiko described multiple previous disasters as “almost normal” in their frequency.

    Geological instability during rainy seasons creates perpetual danger in Rubaya. Miners excavate extensive parallel tunnels with inadequate structural support and no safe evacuation routes. According to former miner Clovis Mafare, uncontrolled digging without safety measures means “in a single pit, there can be as many as 500 miners, and because the tunnels run parallel, one collapse can affect many pits at once.”

    The absence of insurance or compensation compounds the tragedy. Mafare noted that while families might receive minimal funeral assistance, “that small amount isn’t compensation.” Kalabosh’s family has received no financial support for their loss.

    Rubaya’s coltan mines have become strategic assets in Congo’s ongoing conflict, frequently changing hands between government forces and rebel groups. The extracted columbite-tantalite ore produces tantalum and niobium—both classified as critical raw materials by major global economies. These minerals power modern technology from mobile phones and computers to missile systems and jet engines.

    The region’s isolation exacerbates the crisis. Rubaya has been virtually disconnected for two weeks with no mobile network or internet. Residents must pay approximately $2 for 30 minutes of connectivity through private Starlink systems. Poor infrastructure and persistent conflict maintain unreliable cellular and electrical services.

    Political recriminations have followed the tragedy. Congo’s government issued a statement on X expressing solidarity with victims while accusing rebels of illegally and unsafely exploiting natural resources and blaming Rwanda. An M23 spokesperson countered by accusing the government of politicizing the disaster and citing previous collapses at government-controlled mines.

  • Exclusive: Why Pakistan’s India boycott hits ICC and BCCI where it hurts

    Exclusive: Why Pakistan’s India boycott hits ICC and BCCI where it hurts

    In an unprecedented move that has reverberated throughout the international cricket community, Pakistan has officially withdrawn from its high-stakes T20 World Cup match against arch-rival India scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. This calculated decision, endorsed by the Pakistani government and supported by former cricketing legends, represents a profound protest against what many perceive as systemic imbalances within the International Cricket Council’s governance structure.

    The geopolitical tensions underlying this boycott center on recent ICC decisions, particularly the handling of Bangladesh’s tournament participation and the controversial removal of Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif, in an exclusive interview, articulated the growing sentiment among many cricket nations that the ICC has consistently favored the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in critical decision-making processes.

    Latif emphasized the significance of Pakistan’s stance, noting that while the BCCI remains cricket’s most financially powerful entity, the sport’s integrity suffers when competitive balance is compromised. The former captain highlighted specific incidents including the ICC’s refusal to relocate Bangladesh’s matches to co-host Sri Lanka despite establishing a precedent during last year’s Champions Trophy when India’s matches were moved to Dubai for security reasons.

    Adding to the diplomatic friction was last year’s ‘handshake gate’ incident during the Asia Cup, where Indian players refused customary post-match gestures with Pakistani counterparts months after the neighboring nuclear powers nearly escalated into full-scale conflict.

    The financial implications of this boycott are substantial, with India-Pakistan matches typically generating approximately $400 million in broadcasting and advertising revenue. This fixture consistently ranks among the most-watched sporting events globally, making Pakistan’s withdrawal a significant economic blow to both the ICC and broadcast partners.

    Despite forfeiting potential points in Group A, where Pakistan faces comparatively weaker opponents including the Netherlands, Namibia, and the USA, the team’s World Cup prospects remain viable following their recent series victory over Australia. However, questions persist regarding how Pakistan would handle a potential knockout-stage encounter against India.

    The ICC has issued statements warning of ‘long-term implications’ for Pakistan’s cricket future, but many analysts believe the organization cannot afford to alienate a nation that represents nearly 400 million passionate cricket followers. This standoff ultimately underscores the delicate balance between sporting excellence, political realities, and commercial interests in modern international cricket.

  • Standard Chartered raises $170 million in DIFC deal

    Standard Chartered raises $170 million in DIFC deal

    In a strategic financial maneuver executed on February 2, 2026, Standard Chartered Bank has successfully raised $170 million through the issuance of a Certificate of Deposit via its Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) branch. This transaction was conducted under the bank’s established UK electronic commercial paper and certificate of deposit program, marking a significant advancement in utilizing Dubai as a pivotal platform for international capital mobilization.

    Certificates of Deposit represent short-term investment instruments that financial institutions employ to secure funding from substantial investors, including institutional entities and asset management firms. For the broader public, this signifies a regulated borrowing mechanism where the bank obtains short-term capital while providing investors with a secure, tradable instrument guaranteed by a globally recognized financial entity.

    The execution of this financial operation through the DIFC underscores the United Arab Emirates’ expanding influence as a global financial nexus, strategically connecting capital flows between Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and European markets. Camil Zoghby, Head of Treasury Markets for the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan at Standard Chartered, emphasized that “this issuance represents the first of many in the region and constitutes a crucial milestone in enhancing our funding resilience while extending our global liquidity reach.”

    This financial development not only strengthens Standard Chartered’s funding infrastructure and access to diverse international capital pools but also validates the UAE’s sophisticated financial ecosystem. The nation’s sustained investments in robust regulatory frameworks, transparent market operations, and advanced digital financial infrastructure have positioned Dubai as an increasingly attractive destination for complex international funding activities.

    The transaction simultaneously benefits multiple stakeholders: investors gain exposure to low-risk, short-term investment vehicles backed by a globally active banking institution, while the UAE reinforces its standing as a credible and sophisticated jurisdiction for international financial operations. By selecting the DIFC as the platform for this issuance, Standard Chartered actively contributes to the UAE’s broader ambition of establishing itself as a preeminent global financial center bridging Eastern and Western capital markets.