Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Aster DM Healthcare eyes top-tier status in India with aggressive expansion and strategic merger

    Aster DM Healthcare eyes top-tier status in India with aggressive expansion and strategic merger

    Aster DM Healthcare is making significant strides to secure a top-tier position in India’s healthcare sector through an aggressive expansion strategy and a landmark merger. Backed by a substantial investment of Rs26 billion, the company has already allocated Rs4 billion toward infrastructure development and facility upgrades. This initiative is part of a broader plan to increase its bed capacity from the current 5,199 to over 7,800 in the coming years, with a notable presence in Andhra Pradesh, where it operates 889 beds.

    Financially, Aster India has demonstrated robust growth, achieving a 20% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in revenues over the past five years, culminating in Rs41.38 billion in FY25. Operating EBITDA has grown even more impressively, surging at a 38% CAGR to Rs8.06 billion during the same period, reflecting operational efficiency and increasing patient volumes.

    Aster’s strategic ambitions are further highlighted by its merger with Quality Care India Limited (QCIL), announced in November 2024. This merger, pending regulatory approvals, is set to consolidate Aster’s position as one of the top three hospital operators in India by capacity. Post-merger, the combined entity aims to scale up to over 14,190 beds, significantly expanding its reach across tier-1 and tier-2 cities.

    Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, and Alisha Moopen, MD & Group CEO, recently met with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu during his UAE visit to discuss investment plans and healthcare opportunities in the state. Dr. Moopen emphasized the company’s dual focus on infrastructure and innovation, stating, ‘Our goal is not just to expand but to transform healthcare delivery through technology and strategic partnerships.’

    With a clear growth roadmap, strong financial performance, and a transformative merger on the horizon, Aster DM Healthcare is well-positioned to become a dominant force in India’s healthcare landscape.

  • ICAP’s CFO conference in Dubai focuses on financial leadership through agility and innovation

    ICAP’s CFO conference in Dubai focuses on financial leadership through agility and innovation

    The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) hosted its 5th CFO Conference Middle East 2025 in Dubai, uniting global finance leaders, policymakers, and industry innovators. Held under the theme “Quantum Leap: Agility & Competitive Edge,” the event underscored the transformative role of agility, innovation, and sustainability in reshaping financial leadership across borders. With over 500 executives in attendance, the conference reinforced ICAP’s mission to foster a resilient, technology-driven, and globally interconnected finance community. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, delivered a keynote address on the UAE and GCC’s roadmap for transformative growth, emphasizing economic diversification and innovation. ICAP President Saif Ullah highlighted the critical role of CFOs in navigating disruption and driving innovation in an increasingly complex business environment. Khurram Schehzad, Advisor to Pakistan’s Finance Minister, stressed the importance of strategic financial agility and data-driven policymaking to enhance economic resilience. The event featured panel discussions on topics such as inclusive finance, capital market agility, and the integration of sustainability and technology in next-gen finance leadership. Jean Bouquot, President of IFAC, emphasized the need for continuous upskilling among finance professionals to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving landscape. The conference concluded with acknowledgments to sponsors and participants, including Platinum Sponsors Mashreq Bank and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, for their pivotal support in making the event a success.

  • Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara reelected to fourth term, early results show

    Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara reelected to fourth term, early results show

    Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara has been reelected for a fourth term, according to provisional results announced on Monday. The 83-year-old leader, who first assumed office in 2011, secured an overwhelming 89.7% of the vote in an election marked by low voter turnout and subdued activity in the economic hub of Abidjan. Jean-Louis Billon, a former commerce minister, trailed far behind with 3% of the vote, while Simone Gbagbo, a former first lady, garnered 2.4%. Final results are expected by early November, though they may be announced sooner. Approximately 8.5 million people were registered to vote, with turnout hovering around 50%. Billon had already congratulated Ouattara on Sunday evening based on early results. Ouattara’s initial rise to power in 2010 followed a contentious election against his predecessor, Laurent Gbagbo, which sparked deadly unrest claiming at least 3,000 lives. Backed by U.N. and French forces, Ouattara eventually took control. Since then, his supporters have lauded him for revitalizing the conflict-ravaged economy of the world’s largest cocoa producer, while critics accuse him of consolidating power. The 2023 election saw a weakened opposition, as major candidates like Tidjane Thiam and Laurent Gbagbo were excluded from the race. Analysts, including Mucahid Durmaz of Verisk Maplecroft, attribute Ouattara’s victory to his dominance over state institutions and his pivotal role in post-civil war reconstruction. Ouattara’s reelection has reignited debates about constitutional manipulation and democratic erosion in West Africa. His tenure has been marked by economic growth, with a 6% annual rate driven by cocoa exports, yet 37.5% of the population remains in poverty, and youth unemployment persists. Additionally, Ouattara has faced tensions with Sahelian nations like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso over his alleged support for France, which regional juntas blame for worsening security.

  • Rasasi Imtiyaz Group announces the launch of I’mRasasi at Beautyworld Middle East 2025

    Rasasi Imtiyaz Group announces the launch of I’mRasasi at Beautyworld Middle East 2025

    The Rasasi Imtiyaz Group, renowned for its legacy in the fragrance industry, is set to introduce its latest venture, I’mRasasi, at Beautyworld Middle East 2025. This new fragrance house represents a bold evolution of the brand’s 40-year heritage, blending traditional Middle Eastern craftsmanship with modern, youthful sensibilities. I’mRasasi aims to redefine accessible luxury for a global audience, offering a collection of unique and innovative fragrances designed to appeal to diverse tastes. The launch marks the beginning of the brand’s international expansion, with plans to captivate markets in the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Imtiyaz Abdul Razak Kalsekar, CEO and owner of Rasasi Perfumes, emphasized that I’mRasasi is more than a fragrance brand—it’s a statement of individuality, creativity, and modern identity. The debut collection will be showcased at Beautyworld Middle East 2025 from October 27 to 29 at Za’abeel Hall, Booth Z5 C35, featuring immersive scent experiences and a contemporary aesthetic.

  • Versetti Family Office advances discussion on longevity innovation at Global Summit

    Versetti Family Office advances discussion on longevity innovation at Global Summit

    The 6th Annual Timepie Longevity Summit, a premier global gathering of longevity experts, researchers, and investors, recently concluded with a focus on the intersection of science, technology, and entrepreneurship in advancing human lifespan and healthspan. Angel Versetti, Founder and CEO of the Versetti Family Office, emerged as a key voice at the event, addressing critical challenges and opportunities in the longevity industry. In his keynote speech, Versetti highlighted the structural and operational barriers hindering the scaling of early-stage longevity startups and underscored the necessity of fostering synergy between scientific innovation and commercial application. He introduced the Versetti Family Office’s venture-builder model, which aims to address these challenges by unlocking capital and supporting startups dedicated to lifespan-extending discoveries. Versetti also emphasized China’s growing role in the longevity ecosystem, citing its world-class life sciences IP and contract research organizations (CROs) as key drivers of global progress. He expressed enthusiasm for potential collaborations with Chinese universities and labs. During a media interaction, Versetti shared insights on promising longevity interventions while cautioning against unverified or marketing-driven treatments. He drew parallels between modern longevity pioneers like Bryan Johnson and historical figures such as Alexander Bogdanov, who tragically died from self-experimentation. Versetti also stressed the importance of global collaboration in longevity science, warning that geopolitical polarization could impede collective progress. He praised the Timepie Longevity Forum for fostering inclusive dialogue among experts from the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Russia, Singapore, and China. The Versetti Family Office’s participation at the summit reaffirms its commitment to advancing longevity science through responsible innovation, strategic investments, and active engagement in global research discussions.

  • Cameroon’s 92-year-old president wins controversial eighth term

    Cameroon’s 92-year-old president wins controversial eighth term

    Cameroon’s 92-year-old President Paul Biya has been declared the winner of a highly contentious presidential election, securing an unprecedented eighth term in office. The Constitutional Council announced that Biya, the world’s oldest head of state, garnered 53.7% of the vote, while opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary trailed with 35.2%. The election, held on October 12, has been overshadowed by widespread violence and allegations of electoral fraud. Tchiroma Bakary, a former ally of Biya, had earlier claimed victory, but his assertions were dismissed by the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM). In the days following the election, deadly clashes erupted between Bakary’s supporters and security forces in cities like Douala and Garoua, resulting in multiple fatalities. Protesters accused the CPDM of orchestrating a plan to “steal the victory” from the opposition. The unrest has paralyzed the capital, Yaoundé, with schools and businesses shuttered and civil servants staying home. Voter turnout stood at 58%, and at least 10 petitions alleging electoral malpractice were rejected by the Constitutional Council. Biya, who has been in power since 1982, has yet to address the nation publicly, but his party has celebrated his re-election as a sign of “greatness and hope.” Critics, however, point to his prolonged absences, advanced age, and the country’s economic and social challenges, including a 40% youth unemployment rate and a decade-long separatist insurgency in the English-speaking regions. Analysts warn that Cameroon risks descending into political turmoil if the election results are perceived as illegitimate. Murithi Mutiga, Africa Program Director at the International Crisis Group, urged Biya to initiate national mediation to prevent further escalation.

  • Nigerian billionaire plans expansion of Africa’s biggest oil refinery

    Nigerian billionaire plans expansion of Africa’s biggest oil refinery

    ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest individual and owner of the continent’s largest refinery, has announced plans to significantly expand the facility’s capacity. The Dangote Refinery, located in Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, will increase its output from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day. This ambitious expansion aims to address the rising fuel demands both within Africa and internationally. Dangote emphasized that, upon completion, the refinery will surpass India’s Jamnagar refinery as the largest single-site refinery globally. Nigeria, despite being one of Africa’s leading oil producers, has long relied on imported refined petroleum products due to inefficiencies in its state-run refineries. The Dangote Refinery, which commenced operations in January 2024, has already played a pivotal role in meeting local and international fuel needs. However, Dangote stressed that further expansion is essential to keep pace with growing demands. The $19 billion project, which took nearly a decade to complete, reflects a significant vote of confidence in Nigeria’s and Africa’s energy future. While the expansion is widely praised, details regarding its timeline and financing remain undisclosed, according to Ikemesit Effiong, a partner at Lagos-based SBM Intelligence research firm.

  • Dubai Heights Academy reaches new heights with world-class new secondary building

    Dubai Heights Academy reaches new heights with world-class new secondary building

    Dubai Heights Academy, a British Curriculum school in Al Barsha South rated ‘Very Good’ by the KHDA, has taken a significant leap forward in educational excellence with the inauguration of its world-class secondary building in August 2025. Designed to foster the next generation of innovators and leaders, the facility boasts cutting-edge laboratories and studios for science, computer science, food technology, music, and drama. Additionally, it features a 380-seat auditorium, design and technology spaces for product design, electronics, textiles, graphics, and robotics, as well as top-tier sports and recreational amenities, including a multi-purpose indoor sports hall, rooftop court, outdoor sports field, and a 25-metre swimming pool. The school’s philosophy, ‘Every Child, Every Mind, Everybody Matters,’ is embedded in every aspect of the building’s design. Beyond academics, Dubai Heights Academy is renowned for its exceptional wellbeing programs and unique opportunities, such as partnerships with MIT and the Tommy Fleetwood Academy. School Principal Alison Lamb expressed pride in the transformative milestone, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to enriching the student experience. With discounted fees starting at Dh30,000, the academy continues to be a leading affordable British curriculum school in Dubai. Prospective families are encouraged to book a tour at www.dubaiheightsacademy.com.

  • Dubai’s real estate market surges in H1 2025, powered by premium communities

    Dubai’s real estate market surges in H1 2025, powered by premium communities

    Dubai’s residential real estate market has experienced significant growth in the first half of 2025, driven by the success of master-planned communities such as Dubai Hills Estate and Emirates Living. These neighborhoods, developed by Emaar, have become architectural marvels and economic powerhouses, offering a unique blend of luxury, livability, and investment potential. Dubai Hills Estate, strategically located between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina, has emerged as a dynamic submarket with seamless connectivity to major business hubs. The community boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, Dubai Hills Mall, King’s College Hospital, and top-tier schools like GEMS Wellington Academy. Off-plan transactions surged from 1,149 in 2021 to 5,693 in 2024, while ready transactions remained steady at around 1,400 annually, reflecting strong investor confidence. Sales prices have also climbed, with off-plan homes reaching Dh2,479 per square foot and ready homes at Dh2,363 per square foot by H1 2025. The rental market is equally robust, with studio rents rising from Dh85.5K in 2021 to Dh134.9K in H1 2025. Emirates Living, spanning 52 million sq.ft, includes Emirates Hills, The Meadows, The Springs, and The Lakes, catering to distinct lifestyle and budget segments. Transaction volumes have remained consistent, averaging 760–800 annually over the past four years, with the average price per square foot more than doubling since 2021. Together, these communities are driving Dubai’s property market forward, setting benchmarks for capital growth, rental yields, and lifestyle quality.

  • Nature’s light show: UAE shores glow blue with unique bioluminescence

    Nature’s light show: UAE shores glow blue with unique bioluminescence

    Dubai’s shores have recently been transformed into a mesmerizing natural light show, as bioluminescence has illuminated the waters, captivating nature enthusiasts and locals alike. This rare phenomenon, caused by tiny microorganisms called plankton, emits a bluish glow under specific environmental conditions—warm, calm waters, and complete darkness, away from city lights. The spectacle has drawn crowds to various beaches across the emirate, with many describing it as a “magical” experience. Muhammed Sajjad, known as the ‘UAE weatherman’ on social media, first spotted the phenomenon last week and shared the news with his followers. He emphasized that witnessing bioluminescence is a bucket-list experience for nature lovers due to its breathtaking beauty. Sajjad also identified a public beach at Dubai Islands as an ideal spot for viewing, prompting many to visit and share their awe-inspiring encounters. While the phenomenon is not entirely rare, it requires precise conditions to be visible. This marks the second time in recent years that bioluminescence has been observed in the UAE, with previous sightings in Jumeirah and Umm Al Quwain. The event has sparked interest among residents, with some even planning trips to Oman’s Sur city, where similar occurrences have been reported. Despite the challenge of capturing the glow in photographs, the experience remains unforgettable for those fortunate enough to witness it.