Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Alex Iwobi says Afcon is a special football tournament

    Alex Iwobi says Afcon is a special football tournament

    Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has articulated the profound cultural significance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the tournament as a unique celebration of African heritage through football. As Nigeria prepares to compete in the 24-team continental championship hosted by Morocco, Iwobi emphasizes that AFCON offers a platform to showcase diverse cultures, music, and traditions beyond mere athletic competition.

    The Nigerian international, born in Lagos before moving to London as a child, reflects on the Super Eagles’ heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast in the 2023 final. Despite the devastating defeat, Iwobi acknowledges the poetic justice of Ivorian striker Sébastien Haller’s winning goal following his battle with testicular cancer. This experience has fueled Nigeria’s determination to reclaim the title they last won in 2013.

    Iwobi’s personal journey to international football reveals complex identity considerations. After representing England at youth levels, he switched allegiance to Nigeria in 2015, feeling a deeper connection to his roots. With 91 appearances, he now ranks as Nigeria’s fourth most-capped player. Alongside fellow England-born Nigerian internationals Ademola Lookman, Calvin Bassey, and childhood friend Ola Aina—collectively nicknamed the ‘innit boys’—Iwobi believes they’ve paved the way for diaspora players to represent their heritage.

    The midfielder addresses ongoing debates about AFCON’s global recognition, acknowledging increased awareness but arguing the tournament deserves greater respect. He references recent controversial comments by pundit Jamie Carragher who questioned AFCON’s status as a ‘major tournament.’ Iwobi counters that the Premier League’s substantial African contingent demonstrates the competition’s quality and significance.

    Regarding Nigeria’s World Cup qualification failure, Iwobi admits it was a ‘big disappointment’ but states the team is motivated to ‘make it right’ through AFCON success. He describes the transformative honor awaiting champions, where players become ‘royalty’ in their home countries. The 29-year-old envisions immediate celebration with family while acknowledging the life-changing impact of continental triumph.

  • Six mobility exercises can improve your running performance

    Six mobility exercises can improve your running performance

    Health specialists are advocating for a targeted mobility regimen to complement running routines, emphasizing its role in injury prevention and performance enhancement. According to Vikash Sharma, owner of Perfect Stride Physical Therapy in New York, while strength training remains fundamental for runners, strategic mobility work addresses critical biomechanical efficiencies often overlooked.

    Colleen Brough, Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy at Columbia University and founding director of Columbia RunLab, observes that restricted mobility frequently leads runners to develop compensatory movement patterns, increasing injury risk. Stiffness in key areas like the big toe or thoracic spine can force undue stress on ankles, knees, or the lower back during a runner’s stride.

    Dr. Sharma has designed a concise 20-minute routine focusing on joints most vital for runners: the big toe, hip, ankle, thoracic spine, and midfoot. The protocol requires minimal equipment—an exercise mat, a step or box, and a chair. Experts recommend integrating these exercises multiple times daily initially, even during brief breaks, to effectively build mobility before transitioning to a pre-run maintenance routine.

    The exercises include:
    1. Quadruped Rock Backs: Enhances big toe mobility through controlled rocking motions.
    2. Deficit Heel Raises: Boosts ankle mobility and calf strength using an elevated surface.
    3. Mini Split-Stance Pronation Rocks: Promotes midfoot mobility via weighted rocking and rotation.
    4. Hip Flexor Stretch with Pelvic Tilts: Increases hip extension capacity through kneeling stretches and pelvic movements.
    5. Kickstand Hip Hinge with Opposite Hand Reach: Strengthens glutes and improves hip and thoracic rotation using a single-leg hinge motion.
    6. Side-Lying Open Book Rotations: Improves thoracic spine mobility through controlled upper-body rotations while lying on one side.

    This approach, originally featured in The New York Times, underscores that consistent mobility practice not only supports a more efficient running stride but also significantly mitigates the risk of chronic pain and injury.

  • UAE approves gene therapy for new age group in spinal muscular atrophy patients

    UAE approves gene therapy for new age group in spinal muscular atrophy patients

    In a landmark decision for medical advancement, the United Arab Emirates has significantly broadened access to a groundbreaking gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has granted regulatory approval for Itvisma (onasemnogene abeparvovec) to now include eligible adults and children aged two years and above.

    This authorization elevates the UAE to the position of the second nation worldwide to approve this innovative treatment, solidifying its status as a regional pioneer in facilitating patient access to cutting-edge medical solutions. The therapy utilizes an adeno-associated viral vector to directly address the genetic root cause of SMA by delivering a functional replacement for the defective SMN1 gene.

    Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director-General of the EDE, emphasized the decision’s significance, stating it underscores the UAE’s dedication to integrating advanced genetic therapies into its healthcare framework, particularly for rare genetic disorders. The approval followed rigorous evaluation of clinical evidence demonstrating sustained improvements in patients’ motor functions and a consistently positive safety profile throughout all trial phases.

    The regulatory move is a strategic component of the UAE’s vision to cultivate a world-class, innovative, and sustainable healthcare ecosystem. Dr. Al Kaabi highlighted the efficiency of the national health system in evaluating and approving novel pharmaceuticals according to the highest international scientific standards, while maintaining a careful balance between speed, scientific rigor, and transparency.

    Mohamed Ezz Eldin, Head of the GCC Cluster at Novartis—the therapy’s developer—hailed the approval as a pivotal achievement for patients and their families. He noted that close collaboration with the EDE aims to ensure rapid and equitable access to this one-time interventional treatment, potentially altering the disease’s trajectory for many.

    This milestone also reflects Novartis’s expanding commitment to neurology, building on its expertise in SMA and multiple sclerosis to address neuroimmunology, neurodegenerative, and neuromuscular diseases. For the UAE, it strategically reinforces its ambition to become a regional hub for pharmaceutical innovation, delivering high-value therapies that meet stringent quality and safety benchmarks.

  • Celebrate festive season with Ghraoui Chocolate’s indulgent Christmas Collection

    Celebrate festive season with Ghraoui Chocolate’s indulgent Christmas Collection

    Ghraoui Chocolate, the renowned confectionery house with a legacy dating back to 1805, has launched an exclusive Christmas Collection designed to elevate festive celebrations through artisanal craftsmanship. This limited-edition assortment merges centuries-old Damascene sweet-making traditions with European artistry, offering sophisticated options for holiday gifting and table presentations.

    The collection features meticulously crafted chocolate figures including Tiny Santa with caramelised praline filling, Tiny Snowman with crushed mixed nuts, and various Santa-themed creations in premium milk chocolate. Each piece is wrapped in deep winter-toned packaging adorned with hand-painted-style ornaments, pine branches, and delicate blossoms, complemented by red bows and gold accents that evoke seasonal elegance.

    Beyond the chocolate offerings, Ghraoui presents traditional fruit treats including Ghouta and Pâtes de Fruits that recall historical luxury confectionery. The range spans from Apricot Chewcake to Fruit Rouges, featuring velvety pralines, nut-studded delights, and vibrant fruit infusions—all crafted without artificial additives.

    The collection’s bespoke packaging includes embroidered boxes with Christmas decorations, seasonal sleeves, and curated hampers. Ghraoui ensures seamless delivery across the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, making premium gifting accessible throughout the region during the festive season.

  • Another 130 abducted schoolchildren released in Nigeria

    Another 130 abducted schoolchildren released in Nigeria

    Nigerian authorities have successfully secured the liberation of the remaining 130 students and staff members who were abducted during a mass kidnapping at St Mary’s Catholic boarding school in Papiri, central Nigeria. The federal government heralded this development as a “moment of triumph and relief” following one of the country’s most severe school abduction crises.

    The incident began on November 21st when armed assailants stormed the educational facility, initially seizing more than 250 children and staff members. Earlier this month, approximately 100 children were released in a preliminary breakthrough, though confusion persisted regarding the exact number of captives remaining.

    Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed Sunday that the total number of freed students has reached 230. Official communications posted on government social media channels emphasized that “not a single pupil is left in captivity” from the November incident.

    The resolution of this crisis comes amidst growing security concerns across northern and central Nigeria, where educational institutions and religious centers have increasingly become targets for criminal elements. Just days before the St Mary’s abduction, similar attacks occurred at Christ Apostolic Church in Kwara state (resulting in 38 kidnappings) and Government Girls’ Secondary School in Kebbi state (where 25 Muslim students were taken). All victims from those prior incidents have since been freed.

    While government officials have not disclosed operational details regarding the rescue methodology or potential ransom payments, neighboring Nasarawa state governor Abdullahi Sule previously acknowledged the federal government’s crucial involvement in these sensitive negotiations, citing security reasons for the confidentiality.

    The Christian Association of Nigeria reported that approximately 50 students managed to escape during the initial abduction event. The recently freed students are expected to arrive in Minna, the capital of Niger state, on Monday, with official photographs already showing children smiling and waving following their release.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reiterated on December 9th that his administration remains committed to collaborating with state governments to enhance school security and create safer learning environments throughout Nigeria.

  • UAE: Macron announces new French aircraft carrier

    UAE: Macron announces new French aircraft carrier

    French President Emmanuel Macron has officially authorized the construction of France’s next-generation nuclear-powered aircraft carrier during his visit to French troops in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday. This strategic decision comes despite significant budgetary challenges facing the European Union’s second-largest economy.

    The new vessel will replace France’s current flagship, the nuclear-powered Charles de Gaulle, which entered service in 2001 after more than a decade of construction. The Charles de Gaulle remains the only nuclear-powered aircraft carrier outside the US Navy.

    Macron announced the move during his Christmas visit with French forces stationed in the UAE, stating, ‘In line with the last two military programming laws, and after a thorough and comprehensive review, I have decided to equip France with a new aircraft carrier.’ He emphasized the geopolitical necessity of the project, adding, ‘In an age of predators, we must be strong in order to be feared.’

    The new carrier represents a substantial upgrade in capabilities, displacing nearly 80,000 tonnes and measuring approximately 310 meters in length—significantly larger than the Charles de Gaulle’s 42,000 tonnes and 261-meter frame. It will accommodate a crew of 2,000 and carry up to 30 fighter jets.

    The announcement comes amid criticism from French military officials, including General Fabien Mandon, who questioned whether resources should be prioritized toward more immediate concerns given rising tensions with Russia. The project’s launch will enable the signing of all necessary contracts to advance construction.

    While the French carrier will still be smaller than the US Navy’s 11 supercarriers (each displacing over 100,000 tons), it will join an elite group of large carriers operated only by China and Britain’s Royal Navy, though both nations use conventional power sources.

    Macron’s UAE visit also focused on strengthening bilateral ties, particularly regarding cooperation against drug trafficking. The French president met with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss enhancing their strategic partnership, especially concerning ‘stability in the Middle East.’ The UAE remains a significant purchaser of French military equipment, and Paris is reportedly considering Abu Dhabi’s potential involvement in its troubled future fighter jet program following Germany’s anticipated withdrawal.

  • Cricket: Ashes defeat heralds end of England’s Bazball era

    Cricket: Ashes defeat heralds end of England’s Bazball era

    England’s much-hyped Bazball era has met its dramatic demise on Australian soil, collapsing in a harrowing 3-0 Ashes defeat that marks one of the most crushing failures in modern cricket history. The revolutionary approach championed by coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes—which had revitalized English cricket for three years—proved catastrophically inadequate against the world’s top-ranked test nation.

    The series loss, sealed by Sunday’s 82-run defeat at Adelaide Oval, exposes the profound miscalculations in England’s preparation and execution. Their casual build-up, including minimal match practice between Tests and an extended break at the beach resort of Noosa Heads, now appears as hubris rather than strategic innovation. Despite pre-series promises that this tour would differ from previous Australian failures, England’s planning proved fundamentally flawed.

    Critical examination reveals failures across all dimensions: batting, bowling, and fielding. The team squandered a golden opportunity against an aging Australian side missing key players including captain Pat Cummins for two Tests, Josh Hazlewood for the series, and Steve Smith in Adelaide. Instead of becoming the first touring team to win the Ashes in Australia since 2010-11, England now face the humbler goal of simply winning a single Test match in the country for the first time in 15 years.

    While glimpses of competitiveness emerged—such as Zak Crawley’s patient 85 in the fourth innings and Will Jacks’ resilient 47 off 137 balls—most batsmen demonstrated an alarming inability to adapt to Australian conditions. Ollie Pope’s struggles and Harry Brook’s dismissal attempting a reverse-sweep against Nathan Lyon exemplified the team’s rigid adherence to their high-risk philosophy despite changing match situations.

    The post-mortem will undoubtedly question whether McCullum’s ‘run toward the danger’ philosophy can survive this comprehensive failure. While the captain and coach may argue for retooling rather than abandonment, the Ashes defeat suggests Bazball’s freewheeling spirit may have reached its logical conclusion against disciplined opposition.

  • UAE: Sheikh Mohamed meets Elon Musk, discusses latest AI developments

    UAE: Sheikh Mohamed meets Elon Musk, discusses latest AI developments

    In a significant high-level meeting in Abu Dhabi, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hosted tech visionary Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and owner of X, to explore collaborative opportunities in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. The December 21, 2025, gathering brought together top UAE leadership including Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

    The discussions centered on harnessing cutting-edge technological innovations to enhance global quality of life and accelerate worldwide progress. Both parties emphasized the critical importance of international partnerships in the rapidly evolving AI landscape, highlighting how cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange can accelerate the implementation of transformative digital solutions.

    The leadership meeting underscored how such strategic alliances enable nations and specialized institutions to drive comprehensive digital transformation while effectively preparing for future challenges. The presence of multiple senior ministers and officials demonstrated the UAE’s commitment to positioning itself at the forefront of technological innovation through partnerships with global industry leaders.

    This engagement represents the latest in a series of moves by the UAE to establish itself as a hub for technological advancement and artificial intelligence development, leveraging international expertise while contributing to the global technology ecosystem.

  • How UAE weathered heavy rains with constant public alerts, drainage through the night

    How UAE weathered heavy rains with constant public alerts, drainage through the night

    The United Arab Emirates demonstrated exceptional crisis management capabilities during recent severe weather conditions that affected the nation over a two-day period. Through coordinated government action and advanced preparedness measures, authorities effectively minimized potential damage and ensured public safety despite heavy rainfall.

    Prior to the weather event, the National Centre of Meteorology provided consistent updates on developing conditions while municipal and civil defense agencies deployed specialized 4×4 vehicles and rescue equipment including hydraulic lifting systems, cutters, and advanced rescue technologies. Patrol and emergency teams maintained heightened vigilance, particularly in low-lying and vulnerable areas, to enhance response capabilities.

    The comprehensive approach included widespread emergency SMS alerts distributed to both residents and tourists, urging precautionary measures and adherence to official safety guidelines. This communication strategy echoed systems previously implemented during pandemic conditions, ensuring maximum public awareness.

    This weather response represented a significant evolution from the April 2024 rainstorm, which marked the most intense precipitation event recorded in 75 years with over 250mm falling within 24 hours. That historical event caused substantial infrastructure damage and property loss, prompting a fundamental reassessment of weather emergency protocols.

    Notable outcomes from the improved response included no major weather-related traffic fatalities or serious injuries reported during the recent event, though authorities continue investigating one unrelated expatriate death in Ras Al Khaimah. Recovery services noted substantially fewer distress calls compared to the 2024 floods, indicating improved public awareness and precautionary behavior.

    Emergency teams worked continuously through nighttime hours to clear drainage systems and manage flooded roadways. Dubai Police extended officer shifts and deployed approximately 70% of patrol and rescue resources across the emirate, including remote areas like Hatta. Authorities restricted access to hazardous locations including valleys, elevated terrain, and coastal areas while maintaining real-time coordination and field updates.

    The successful management highlighted the importance of early monitoring, clear public communication, and interagency cooperation. Media organizations played a crucial role in disseminating timely information and official announcements throughout the weather event.

    The UAE’s response demonstrates how structured preparedness, public trust, and collective effort can effectively mitigate natural challenges despite increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

  • 130 schoolchildren and staff abducted in Nigeria last month have been released, police say

    130 schoolchildren and staff abducted in Nigeria last month have been released, police say

    ABUJA, Nigeria — In a significant development following weeks of uncertainty, Nigerian authorities have confirmed the successful liberation of the remaining 130 students and staff members who were held captive since their abduction from St. Mary’s Catholic School last month. The November 21st raid by armed gunmen in Niger state’s Papiri community had initially resulted in the capture of 303 students and 12 teachers.

    The resolution came through what presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga described as a “military intelligence driven operation” that culminated in the hostages’ release on Sunday. According to official statements from both police and government representatives, all formerly captive individuals are scheduled to reunite with their families in Minna, the state capital, ahead of Christmas celebrations.

    This incident represents one of the most severe mass abductions in Nigeria’s ongoing security crisis, though it follows a pattern of similar attacks targeting educational institutions and houses of worship. While no group has formally claimed responsibility, local communities attribute such kidnappings to armed gangs operating predominantly in Nigeria’s northern regions, where ransom-driven abductions have become increasingly prevalent.

    The coordinated response involved multiple government agencies, with Niger State police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun verifying the release of “the remaining batch of abducted students.” Concurrently, Sunday Dare, another presidential spokesperson, asserted that no children remain in captivity following this operation.

    This successful resolution occurs against a backdrop of international scrutiny regarding Nigeria’s handling of security challenges, particularly those affecting religious communities and educational institutions.