In a remarkable medical triumph, a premature baby born at just 27 weeks and weighing less than a kilogram has survived an extremely rare and life-threatening condition known as Amyand’s hernia. The infant, Sid Elian Mattheus Casino, underwent a complex surgery at Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi, defying the odds to recover from a condition that occurs in only 0.1% of cases worldwide. Amyand’s hernia involves a perforated appendix trapped in the inguinal canal and extending into the scrotum, a condition almost unheard of in premature infants. For first-time parents Stewart John and Isabel Mari Casiño, Sid’s early arrival was both a joyous and terrifying experience. Isabel first met her baby 12 hours after delivery in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), surrounded by machines and wires. “My heart was breaking and overflowing at the same time,” she recalled. “I wished I could just hold him and protect him.” Three weeks later, when Sid developed swelling in his belly and scrotum, doctors diagnosed the hernia. Despite initial fears, Isabel placed her trust in Professor Dr. Amulya Saxena, a consultant pediatric surgeon at Burjeel Hospital, who assured her that Sid would survive. The emergency surgery, performed by Dr. Saxena and his team, involved removing the perforated appendix and preserving the tiny testicle while ensuring no contamination or infection. Sid’s recovery in the NICU was slow but steady, and after ten weeks of intensive care, the family finally took him home. At discharge, he weighed 1.8 kilograms, and a month later, his weight nearly doubled to 3.3 kilograms. “Every day is a win for us,” said Isabel. “My baby has shown me what true strength is.” Dr. Saxena attributed Sid’s recovery to prompt diagnosis, meticulous surgical work, and coordinated care. “Seeing him healthy and thriving today is the most rewarding outcome for our entire team,” he said.
标签： Africa
非洲
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Ivory Coast’s leader urges youth to vote in key election, touting himself as best choice
In a fervent campaign rally held in Abidjan, Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara appealed to the nation’s youth to actively participate in the forthcoming presidential election scheduled for October 25. Addressing a large crowd, the 83-year-old leader emphasized his dedication to improving the lives of young Ivorians, positioning himself as the most committed candidate to their welfare. “I have always strived to provide the best opportunities for our youth, enabling them to start businesses, work, learn, and achieve independence,” Ouattara declared. The election, which sees Ouattara contesting against four other candidates, is unfolding against a backdrop of heightened political tensions. Key opposition figures, including former President Laurent Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, have been disqualified from running, a move that has sparked widespread protests. Authorities have attempted to quell these demonstrations, resulting in hundreds of arrests and several jail sentences. Despite the controversy, analysts predict a strong likelihood of Ouattara securing a fourth term, especially after the 2016 constitutional amendment that removed presidential term limits. While Ouattara pledges to tackle the country’s security and economic challenges, opposition leaders argue that his administration has fallen short of expectations and accuse the government of manipulating the electoral process to ensure his victory. Florine-Auxane Loukou Bledja, a youth leader within the ruling party, echoed the sentiment of many supporters, stating, “He has done a lot for young people, and we want him to continue.”
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Zimbabwe’s ruling party moves to extend President Mnangagwa’s term until 2030
In a significant political development, Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party announced on Saturday its intention to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term by two years, potentially keeping him in office until 2030. The decision, made during the party’s annual conference in Mutare, directs the government to initiate legislative amendments to alter the constitutional term limits. Currently, the constitution mandates that Mnangagwa step down in 2028 after completing two five-year terms. Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, who also serves as ZANU-PF’s legal secretary, confirmed the resolution, which was met with enthusiastic applause from hundreds of delegates. However, legal experts, including lecturer Lovemore Madhuku, argue that such a change might necessitate two referendums, adding complexity to the process. Mnangagwa, who has previously identified as a ‘constitutionalist,’ has not publicly endorsed the extension, though factions loyal to him have actively campaigned for it. Conversely, allies of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, who played a pivotal role in the 2017 coup against former President Robert Mugabe, oppose the move. Chiwenga supporter Blessed Geza has used YouTube to criticize the campaign, garnering significant attention, though calls for protests have been subdued amid heightened police presence. The proposal echoes a broader trend in Africa, where constitutional amendments have been used to extend the rule of several leaders in recent years.
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Sharjah warns of Dh2,000 fine for unauthorised camping, bumps up security
As the winter season approaches, drawing thousands of residents and tourists to Sharjah’s desert and open areas for camping, authorities have announced stringent measures to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Unauthorized camping will now incur a fine of Dh2,000, which will double for repeat offenders. These fines are integrated into the Ministry of Interior’s system and must be settled during vehicle registration renewals. To enforce these regulations, the Sharjah Central Region Police Department has deployed comprehensive security measures across key desert areas, including Al Badayer, Al Faya, and Mleiha. Police patrols, supported by rescue units and a dedicated operations room, have been active since early October to respond swiftly to emergencies, locate lost campers, and provide first aid. Authorities have also established checkpoints to monitor compliance and detect unlicensed drivers, while barbed wire fencing has been installed along major desert roads to prevent accidents involving stray animals. Campers are warned against irresponsible behaviors such as reckless off-road driving, loud music, and creating disturbances, which could lead to serious accidents or injuries. The police emphasized that these measures aim not only to maintain order but also to protect Sharjah’s fragile desert environment. By adhering to safety guidelines and preserving natural habitats, residents and visitors can contribute to a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable winter camping experience.
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‘We are orphans’: Kenyans bid farewell to ex-PM Odinga in his political heartland
The Kenyan city of Kisumu witnessed an overwhelming outpouring of grief as tens of thousands gathered at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium to honor the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The 80-year-old political icon, who passed away in a hospital in India, was laid to rest following a state funeral in Nairobi on Friday. His body now lies in state in Kisumu, his political stronghold, ahead of a private burial scheduled for Sunday at his farm in Bondo, approximately 60 kilometers west of Kisumu.
Mourners began arriving at the stadium before dawn on Saturday, many adorned in orange, the signature color of Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement. They waved branches, a traditional symbol of mourning among the Luo ethnic group, to which Odinga belonged. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, with cries of ‘we are orphans’ echoing through the crowd. Dixon Ochieng, one of the mourners, described Odinga as ‘an icon of Africa,’ a sentiment shared by many who viewed him as a pivotal figure in Kenya’s journey toward multi-party democracy.
Odinga’s political career was marked by resilience and controversy. He served as the country’s main opposition leader for decades, contesting five presidential elections, the most recent being three years ago. Despite repeated claims of electoral fraud, Odinga remained a steadfast advocate for democratic principles. Following the contentious 2007 election, which was marred by violence, he assumed the role of prime minister in a unity government. His legacy is deeply rooted in his unwavering commitment to freedom and self-governance, earning him a devoted following, particularly in western Kenya.
Among the dignitaries paying tribute to Odinga was former U.S. President Barack Obama, who lauded him as ‘a true champion of democracy.’ In a heartfelt message on X, Obama highlighted Odinga’s willingness to prioritize national interests over personal ambitions and his dedication to peaceful reconciliation. ‘Time and again, I personally saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own ambitions,’ Obama wrote.
As Kenya bids farewell to one of its most influential leaders, the nation reflects on the indelible mark Odinga left on its political landscape. His legacy of resilience, democracy, and unity continues to inspire countless Kenyans, ensuring that his impact will be felt for generations to come.
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Heavy security after deadly violence in Kenya as thousands turn out to mourn former PM Odinga
In a bid to prevent further tragedies, Kenya has mobilized extensive security measures in Kisumu, a western city, for the final public viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body. This comes in the wake of five fatalities during the previous two funeral events. On Saturday, military personnel, police forces, and air surveillance units were stationed at a local soccer stadium, where thousands of mourners had gathered overnight to pay their respects. Odinga, a revered political figure in Kenya and beyond, passed away on Wednesday in India at the age of 80. He is set to be buried on Sunday in his rural hometown of Bondo. Odinga’s supporters, known for their fervor and determination, have been turning out in large numbers since his body was repatriated to Kenya on Thursday. The funeral events have been marred by violence, with police firing live bullets and tear gas on Thursday, resulting in three deaths. A stampede on Friday claimed two more lives and left 163 injured. Odinga’s widow, Ida, and his brother, Oburu, have both urged mourners to maintain peace and avoid provoking law enforcement. Odinga, who ran for Kenya’s presidency five times over three decades, is celebrated for his lifelong activism that significantly contributed to Kenya’s transition to a multiparty democracy. His body lay in state at parliament on Friday, an honor typically reserved for presidents and former presidents. Kenya’s President William Ruto, who once campaigned for Odinga in 2007 but later became his political rival, praised him as a patriot and selfless statesman. Earlier this year, the two leaders signed an agreement following months of anti-government protests, leading to the appointment of opposition party members to Cabinet positions.
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From barracks to palace: Soldiers who led military coups to become state leaders
In a dramatic turn of events, Madagascar has witnessed a military coup following weeks of nationwide protests led by Gen-Z, primarily fueled by severe power and water shortages. The unrest culminated in the exile of President Andry Rajoelina, with Army Colonel Michael Randrianirina sworn in as the new leader. This incident is not an isolated case in history, as several military leaders have similarly ascended to power through coups. Here are five notable examples: Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing, who seized control in 2021, declaring a state of emergency and establishing a military government. Uganda’s Idi Amin, who overthrew President Milton Obote in 1971, only to plunge the country into a brutal dictatorship. Turkey’s Kenan Evren, who led a coup in 1980, rewrote the constitution, and ruled as a dictator until his eventual imprisonment. Ghana’s Jerry Rawlings, who transitioned from a military ruler to a democratically elected president, leaving a complex legacy. Chile’s Augusto Pinochet, who orchestrated a bloody coup in 1973, leading to a 17-year dictatorship marked by human rights abuses and economic reforms.
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‘We have to prioritise South Africans’: Anti-migrant movement blocks foreigners from healthcare
In South Africa, Operation Dudula, once a grassroots anti-migrant movement, has evolved into a political party, sparking nationwide debate over access to public services for foreigners. The group, whose name means ‘to remove by force’ in Zulu, has intensified its campaign by blocking non-South Africans from entering public health facilities in provinces like Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Despite arrests, authorities have struggled to curb their activities, leaving migrants and even some locals without essential healthcare.
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Rayan Ahmed extends hot streak with solid victory at Tommy Fleetwood Pathway Series
Dubai’s emerging golf sensation, Rayan Ahmed, has solidified his status as a rising star with a commanding victory at the 2025 Tommy Fleetwood International Pathway Series. Held at the prestigious Jumeirah Golf Estates, the event attracted a competitive field of 72 players from nine countries, representing 13 UAE clubs. Ahmed, an 18-year-old UAE National Team member, showcased his exceptional talent with consistent rounds of 69, 67, and 66, finishing with a 54-hole total of 211 and securing a four-shot victory over Adam Campbell of the Montgomerie Golf Club. This triumph marks Ahmed’s second consecutive win, following his recent success at the Faldo Golf Tour. The young golfer’s performance included 14 birdies, an eagle, and only two bogeys over three days on the challenging Earth Course. In the Girls’ Division, Imogen Hall of The Els Club, Dubai, emerged victorious after a thrilling playoff against Alisa Molokanova of the Russian Golf Association. The tournament, supported by DP World and the American Junior Golf Association, is the first of a three-part UAE series designed to provide young golfers with opportunities to earn World Amateur Golf Ranking points. Ahmed expressed his delight with the win, noting it as his lowest 54-hole score and a significant confidence boost ahead of the upcoming Asian-Pacific Amateur Championship. Tommy Fleetwood, the series’ namesake and a six-time DP World Tour winner, emphasized the event’s mission to nurture young talent and open doors for aspiring golfers on the global stage. The next two Pathway Series events are scheduled for November 2025 in Ras Al Khaimah and February 2026 in Abu Dhabi.
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UAE: Ajman Ruler performs Salat Al Istisqa, prays for rain
In a significant spiritual gathering, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, led the Salat Al Istisqa (rain-seeking prayer) at the Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Mosque in Ajman. This prayer, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, was conducted in alignment with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad and in response to a nationwide call by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The event saw the participation of Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Municipality and Planning Department, alongside numerous sheikhs, senior officials, and a congregation of citizens and residents. Following the prayer, attendees raised their hands in supplication, beseeching Allah for rain as a divine mercy to benefit the people, land, and all creatures. They also prayed for the protection and guidance of the UAE’s leadership and for eternal peace for the nation’s founding leaders.