A devastating plane crash occurred in Kwale, near Kenya’s coast, early Tuesday morning, according to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). The aircraft, carrying 12 passengers, was en route from the coastal town of Diani to Kichwa Tembo, a popular resort within a game park, when it crashed at approximately 05:30 local time (02:30 GMT). Initial reports suggest that tourists were among those on board. Kenyan media outlets have released harrowing images of the wreckage, showing the plane engulfed in flames with debris scattered across the crash site. The KCAA has confirmed that government agencies are actively investigating the incident to determine the cause of the accident and evaluate its broader impact. This tragic event has sent shockwaves through the region, raising concerns about aviation safety in the area. For further updates and comprehensive coverage of news across the African continent, visit BBCAfrica.com or follow BBC Africa on social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
标签： Africa
非洲
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Small plane carrying foreign tourists crashes in Kenya, with 12 people feared dead
A devastating plane crash occurred in Kenya’s coastal region of Kwale early Tuesday, resulting in the feared deaths of all 12 individuals on board. The aircraft, a Cessna Caravan, was en route to the renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve when it crashed in a hilly, forested area approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Diani airstrip. According to Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde, the passengers were all foreign tourists, with their nationalities yet to be confirmed. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority has initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash, though details regarding the number of passengers versus crew remain unclear. Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion before discovering the charred wreckage and unrecognizable human remains at the scene. The airline involved, Mombasa Air Safari, has stated it is cooperating with authorities and will provide updates through the civil aviation body. The Maasai Mara National Reserve, a top tourist attraction known for the annual wildebeest migration, is a significant draw for visitors from around the globe.
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Sudan’s army loses key city of el-Fasher to paramilitary RSF after 18-month siege
In a significant development in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, the Sudanese military has withdrawn from its last stronghold in the western region of Darfur, el-Fasher, following the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) claiming control of the city. General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s military chief, announced the decision in a televised address, citing the need to protect civilians from “systematic destruction and killing.” He emphasized that the withdrawal was coordinated with local leaders to safeguard remaining residents and prevent further devastation. The United Nations has expressed grave concern over reports of atrocities committed by the RSF in el-Fasher, urging safe passage for trapped civilians. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis in the region. The 18-month siege of el-Fasher and North Darfur has resulted in widespread suffering, with malnutrition, disease, and violence claiming lives daily. The UN Human Rights Office has warned of escalating ethnically motivated atrocities and called on influential states to act. General Burhan criticized the international community’s inaction and vowed to reclaim the region. The fall of el-Fasher marks a pivotal moment in Sudan’s war, which has displaced nearly 12 million people and killed tens of thousands since April 2023. The RSF’s control over all five state capitals in Darfur solidifies its parallel administration in Nyala, South Darfur’s capital.
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Zanzibar is seeing a seaweed boom. Can the women collecting it cash in?
In the picturesque coastal waters of Zanzibar, Tanzania, women clad in vibrant dresses wade through the shallows, their baskets filled with seaweed. This seemingly idyllic scene, often captured by tourists, belies the harsh realities of their labor-intensive work. Seaweed farming, a cornerstone of Zanzibar’s economy, employs thousands of women, yet it comes with significant physical and environmental challenges.
Seaweed, primarily exported for use in the global food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries, has seen a surge in demand. This has spurred increased private investment and donor funding, making seaweed the third-largest contributor to Zanzibar’s economy after tourism and spices. However, the women who form the backbone of this industry often face grueling conditions.
Mwanaisha Makame Simai, a seaweed farmer, describes the physical toll: ‘I experience pain in my back, waist, and chest due to the labor in the sea. There are also risks of being stung or bitten. Sometimes strong waves sweep you away. I have personally witnessed three cases of people drowning.’
The industry’s growth is part of Zanzibar’s ‘blue economy’ initiative, aimed at leveraging sustainable marine resources for economic development. Global players like Cargill have invested in the sector, partnering with organizations like The Nature Conservancy to improve yields and farmers’ incomes. NGOs such as the Global Seaweed Coalition are also stepping up efforts to ensure the sector’s safety and sustainability.
Despite these advancements, the majority of Zanzibar’s 25,000 seaweed farmers, predominantly women, work independently or in collectives, selling to local middlemen with little to no protections. Long hours under the equatorial sun lead to backaches, skin irritation, and the risk of stings from sea creatures. Rising sea temperatures due to climate change have further compounded these challenges, forcing women to venture into deeper waters.
Efforts to empower these women are underway. Organizations like Milele Zanzibar Foundation are teaching women to swim to combat the growing drowning crisis. Mwani Zanzibar, a boutique seaweed farm and factory, is training women in cosmetics manufacturing, offering them higher-paying jobs and reducing their time spent in the sea.
However, concerns remain about the equitable distribution of benefits from the industry’s growth. Simai notes, ‘Most of the money ends up with those who have office jobs, rather than the hardworking farmers.’ As Zanzibar’s seaweed industry continues to expand, ensuring that its benefits reach those at the grassroots level remains a critical challenge.
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WHO decries deadly attack on only functioning hospital in Sudan’s El-Fasher
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stern condemnation following a deadly assault on the only partially functional hospital in El-Fasher, Sudan. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus revealed on Monday that the Saudi Maternity Hospital was targeted in the attack, resulting in the tragic death of one nurse and injuries to three other healthcare workers. Ghebreyesus expressed deep concern over the inability to gather further details due to a communication blackout in the region, which has severely hampered verification efforts. He urgently called for an immediate cessation of hostilities to safeguard healthcare facilities and personnel. The attack underscores the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan, where ongoing conflict continues to devastate critical infrastructure and endanger lives. The WHO has repeatedly emphasized the importance of protecting medical facilities during conflicts, as they are vital for providing life-saving care to vulnerable populations. This incident highlights the urgent need for international intervention to address the escalating crisis in Sudan and ensure the safety of healthcare workers and civilians alike.
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The 92-year-old president who never loses
In a widely anticipated yet contentious outcome, Cameroon’s Constitutional Council has declared 92-year-old President Paul Biya the winner of the recent presidential election, marking his eighth consecutive term in office. Biya, the world’s oldest head of state, secured 53.7% of the vote, while his primary challenger, former government minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, garnered 35.2%. The announcement, made on Monday, has sparked a mix of shock and disillusionment among Cameroonians, many of whom had hoped for a change in leadership. Biya’s decision to seek another seven-year term, after already ruling for 43 years, has been met with criticism, particularly regarding his governance style and frequent absences from the country. His extended stays in Geneva and other undisclosed locations have fueled speculation about his actual involvement in governing Cameroon, with many suggesting that key decisions are made by Prime Minister Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh and other senior officials. Biya’s inscrutable leadership, characterized by a lack of public engagement and formal cabinet meetings, has left many questioning the direction of his administration. Despite these concerns, Biya has maintained his grip on power, balancing Cameroon’s complex social, regional, and linguistic divides. His regime has sporadically cracked down on dissent, detaining vocal critics and suppressing protests. However, his ability to navigate the country’s internal tensions and maintain financial stability has also contributed to his longevity. The recent election, however, has highlighted growing discontent, particularly in the English-speaking regions, where a bloody crisis has exposed the limits of Biya’s cautious approach. Opposition supporters have accused Biya of rigging the election, and tensions have escalated, with reports of security forces shooting protesters in Douala and Garoua. As Biya embarks on another term, the question remains whether Cameroonians will continue to tolerate his semi-authoritarian rule or demand a more decisive change in leadership.
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History beckons as UAE eye Asian Youth Games endurance gold
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is poised to make equestrian history at the 2025 Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, as it seeks to become the first nation to clinch an endurance gold medal. The event, making its debut at the Games, will take place on October 30 at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir. The UAE’s formidable squad includes Essa Rashed Al Mazrouei, Ahmad Abdulrahman Al Bastaki, Ali Abdulla Al Falasi, Humaid Fahad Al Kaabi, and Khalifa Rashed Al Ameemi, who are set to compete in both individual and team categories. Known as a powerhouse in the sport, the UAE team is among the top contenders, drawing significant attention from spectators and competitors alike. Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Equestrian Club, expressed pride in the team’s preparation, stating, ‘Their dedication, discipline, and passion have already made the nation proud. We are confident they will deliver outstanding results.’ Ahmed Rashed Al Kaabi, General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team’s commitment to excellence and unity. Meanwhile, the UAE has already made waves at the Games, amassing 18 medals, including seven golds, six silvers, and five bronzes. Notable achievements include gold medals in camel racing and show jumping, as well as a bronze in swimming. The UAE currently ranks sixth overall in the medal standings, trailing leaders China and Uzbekistan. With its athletes continuing to shine, the UAE is solidifying its reputation as a dominant force in regional and international sports.
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The South African start-up bringing tech to townships
In a groundbreaking move, South African entrepreneur Talifhani Banks has introduced a cutting-edge delivery system tailored for small businesses in underserved townships. This initiative aims to bridge the technological gap in these communities, providing them with access to modern logistics solutions that were previously out of reach. Banks’ innovative approach not only enhances operational efficiency for local enterprises but also fosters economic growth and job creation in areas that have long been marginalized. By leveraging technology, Banks is empowering small businesses to compete more effectively in the broader market, thereby transforming the economic landscape of South African townships. This development marks a significant step towards inclusive technological advancement in the region.
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UAE: Indian expats to get e-passports with chips when applying through new portal
The Consulate General of India in Dubai has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to streamline passport services for Indian expatriates in the UAE. Starting October 28, 2025, the Passport Seva Programme (PSP 2.0) will introduce e-passports embedded with electronic chips, offering enhanced security and faster immigration clearance. The new system, accessible via the upgraded GPSP 2.0 portal, aims to reduce waiting times at BLS Centres and make the application process more transparent and user-friendly. Key features include the ability to upload ICAO-compliant photographs and supporting documents directly online, as well as the option to make minor corrections at BLS Centres without additional charges. Applicants are encouraged to register on the portal, submit their forms online, and book appointments through BLS International’s website. This initiative marks a significant step in modernizing India’s passport services abroad, ensuring greater efficiency and convenience for the Indian community in the UAE.
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Wolves fans change their tune as Pereira calls for unity
Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Vitor Pereira faced a stark contrast in fan sentiment following Sunday’s 3-2 home defeat to Burnley. Just months after being celebrated for securing the team’s Premier League status, Pereira was met with chants of “You’re getting sacked in the morning” from disillusioned supporters. The loss leaves Wolves rooted to the bottom of the table with only two points from nine games, making them the only winless team across England’s top four divisions. Pereira had to be restrained by his own players after confronting angry fans at the final whistle. Despite the backlash, the Portuguese coach called for unity, emphasizing that success is unattainable without fan support. “We understand the frustration, but if we fight united, we can win games and achieve our targets,” he told reporters. Wolves initially trailed 2-0 but fought back with goals from Jorgen Strand Larsen and Marshall Munetsi, only for Burnley to clinch victory in stoppage time. Pereira praised his team’s spirit and urged fans to remain proud of their efforts. Wolves now face Chelsea in the League Cup midweek before a crucial league clash with Fulham on Saturday.