Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • ‘Appalling weekend’ – Arokodare & Mundle latest players to be racially abused

    ‘Appalling weekend’ – Arokodare & Mundle latest players to be racially abused

    English football confronts a renewed racism crisis following an unprecedented wave of targeted abuse against four Premier League players across a single weekend. Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland winger Romaine Mundle became the latest victims on Sunday, receiving racist messages through social media platforms.

    This disturbing pattern emerged just twenty-four hours after Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri and Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana endured similar abuse following their teams’ 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge. Anti-discrimination organization Kick It Out condemned the incidents as representing an ‘appalling weekend’ for football, highlighting the persistent nature of online bigotry within the sport.

    Wolves expressed outright disgust after Arokodare, whose first-half penalty was saved during their 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace, received hateful messages from multiple accounts. The Nigerian international shared screenshots of the abuse on his Instagram, questioning why perpetrators continue to act without consequences. ‘These individuals should have no place in our game,’ Arokodare stated, demanding collective action against those who ‘taint the sport.’

    Sunderland similarly denounced the ‘vile’ abuse directed at Mundle following their 3-1 home defeat to Fulham, emphasizing that such behavior contradicts club values and community standards. The English forward has since deleted his Instagram account, echoing actions he previously took in February 2025 when facing similar discrimination while playing in the Championship.

    The Premier League has pledged full support for investigations, warning of serious consequences including club bans and legal prosecution for identified offenders. This weekend’s incidents follow broader patterns of abuse across European football, including recent allegations against Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match and racist targeting of Rangers players in Scotland.

    Meta, Instagram’s parent company, maintains that it removes racist content when identified and cooperates with police investigations. However, players like Fofana express frustration that systemic changes remain elusive despite anti-racism campaigns. As Kick It Out emphasizes: ‘Words matter, but actions are more important’ – calling for enhanced protections and accountability measures from social media platforms.

  • Apple AI glasses: Release date, features and expected UAE price

    Apple AI glasses: Release date, features and expected UAE price

    Apple is reportedly accelerating development of its long-rumored AI-powered smart glasses, marking a significant advancement in wearable technology. According to Bloomberg reports, the tech giant is working on three distinct AI wearables: smart glasses, a pendant device, and camera-equipped AirPods, all designed to integrate Siri more deeply into daily life.

    The glasses project represents a strategic shift from earlier expectations of full augmented reality capabilities. Instead of complex AR overlays, Apple appears focused on practical AI assistance through sophisticated computer vision technology. This approach contrasts with the company’s high-end Vision Pro spatial computing device, priced at Dh13,999 in the UAE, positioning the glasses as a more accessible everyday companion.

    Technical specifications indicate the glasses will feature dual integrated cameras—one dedicated to computer vision and another for photo and video capture. The device will include microphones, speakers, and on-device AI processing, all embedded within the frame without requiring an external battery pack. This represents a significant engineering achievement from earlier prototypes that relied on separate power sources.

    A potentially groundbreaking development emerged through Apple’s recent acquisition of startup Q.ai for approximately $2 billion. The company specialized in machine learning systems capable of interpreting silent voice input through micro facial movements and subvocalization detection. This technology could enable users to communicate with Siri without audible speech, revolutionizing voice assistant interactions in crowded or private settings.

    While no official release date has been confirmed, industry speculation suggests a potential launch within the next year. Pricing is expected to significantly exceed Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, currently available for Dh1,549 in the UAE market. The integration of advanced silent communication technology positions Apple’s offering as a potentially transformative product in the rapidly evolving AI wearable landscape.

  • Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan marries girlfriend Sophie Shine

    Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan marries girlfriend Sophie Shine

    Former Indian cricket icon Shikhar Dhawan has officially entered matrimony with his partner Sophie Shine in a private ceremony held on February 21. The celebrated sportsman shared exclusive visuals from their wedding through social media platforms, offering fans a glimpse into their joyous celebrations.

    The couple radiated elegance in custom-designed attire created by renowned fashion designer Manish Malhotra. Through an Instagram post captioned simply “Mr. & Mrs. Dhawan,” the cricketer revealed several cherished moments from the ceremony. The collection included photographs capturing traditional wedding rituals and spontaneous dance celebrations, showcasing the couple’s evident happiness.

    Numerous high-profile personalities from cricket and entertainment industries extended their congratulations. Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh posted “Congratulations and God bless, Shikhar Bhai!” while fellow cricketer Ravindra Jadeja also shared warm wishes. Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal attended the ceremony and posted photographic memories with the caption “Mere yaar ki shaadi hai” (My friend’s wedding).

    The relationship timeline shows Dhawan and Shine announced their engagement on January 12 via social media with a dreamy photograph and heartfelt caption: “From shared smiles to shared dreams. Grateful for the love, the blessings and every good wish for our engagement as we choose togetherness forever.”

    This marriage marks a new chapter for Dhawan following his previous marriage to Australian kickboxer Aesha Mukerji, which ended in divorce in October 2023 after eight years. The former couple shares a son named Zoravar, whom Dhawan has reportedly been unable to meet in person for two years due to ongoing personal circumstances.

  • Dubai Police arrest beggar with Dh20,000, targeting luxury car owners in Ramadan

    Dubai Police arrest beggar with Dh20,000, targeting luxury car owners in Ramadan

    Dubai authorities have apprehended an individual engaged in sophisticated begging operations, seizing approximately Dh20,000 during an arrest in a local parking area. The suspect specifically targeted owners of premium vehicles at traffic intersections and parking facilities, employing emotional manipulation tactics by fabricating stories of financial distress and urgent need for basic necessities.

    The operation forms part of the comprehensive ‘Combating Beggery’ initiative, a multi-agency campaign designed to enhance public awareness and safeguard the nation’s modern image by addressing begging-related criminal activities. Brigadier Ali Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the Suspicious Persons and Criminal Phenomena Department, emphasized the calculated nature of these operations, noting that beggars frequently position themselves at strategic locations including mosque entrances, medical facilities, commercial centers, and high-traffic urban areas.

    Authorities have issued renewed warnings regarding both physical and digital begging schemes, particularly during the Ramadan period when charitable sentiments are heightened. The police highlighted existing legislation under Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021, which explicitly criminalizes all forms of begging through information technology platforms. Violations carry substantial penalties including imprisonment for up to three months and fines starting from Dh10,000.

    The public has been urged to channel charitable contributions exclusively through officially recognized institutions and to report suspicious activities via multiple channels including the toll-free hotline 901, the Police Eye smart application service, or the official E-Crime reporting platform. This coordinated approach aims to combat both individual and organized begging networks while promoting legitimate charitable practices.

  • Ruler of Sharjah receives Ramadan Greetings from well-wishers

    Ruler of Sharjah receives Ramadan Greetings from well-wishers

    In a display of traditional leadership and communal solidarity, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, hosted an official reception ceremony at Al Badee Palace on Wednesday evening to mark the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan. The event saw the attendance of prominent government figures, including Abdulrahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs, alongside senior officials, department directors, high-ranking police officers, tribal representatives, and citizens. The Ruler was accompanied by Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler; and Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler. Well-wishers extended their heartfelt congratulations for the sacred occasion, offering prayers for the Ruler’s continued health and wellbeing. They further invoked divine blessings for the UAE’s ongoing development and prosperity, as well as for peace and harmony throughout Arab and Islamic nations during this period of spiritual reflection.

  • ‘Affront to humanity’: Sudan slams Uganda for hosting RSF paramilitary boss

    ‘Affront to humanity’: Sudan slams Uganda for hosting RSF paramilitary boss

    Sudan’s government has issued a formal condemnation against Uganda for hosting paramilitary leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), labeling the diplomatic engagement an “affront to humanity.” The Sudanese foreign ministry, representing the nation’s armed forces, accused Uganda of violating international law by welcoming Dagalo, whose forces stand accused of perpetrating extensive atrocities throughout Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict.

    The diplomatic confrontation emerged after Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni met with Dagalo—commonly known as Hemedti—at his presidential residence in Entebbe last Friday. Museveni, who serves as an African Union-appointed mediator between Sudan’s military and the RSF, stated that he emphasized the necessity of a “peaceful political solution” to end the conflict.

    In a strongly-worded statement released on Sunday, Sudan’s foreign ministry denounced the reception of the “rebel leader” and described the meeting as an “unprecedented move” that insults not only the Sudanese people but humanity as a whole. While acknowledging Uganda’s sovereign right to host foreign visitors, Khartoum insisted that welcoming Dagalo constitutes a breach of international legal standards.

    The RSF and Sudan’s national armed forces have been embroiled in a devastating power struggle for nearly three years, resulting in hundreds of thousands of casualties and displacing over 13 million people. Both factions face allegations of committing atrocities, with recent UN reports suggesting that RSF actions during the siege of el-Fasher may amount to genocide.

    This incident echoes previous regional tensions, including Sudan’s suspension of imports from Kenya last year after Nairobi hosted RSF representatives. African nations continue to grapple with diplomatic balancing acts as they attempt to mediate a conflict that shows no signs of abatement, with the RSF recently announcing the capture of al-Tina in North Darfur following intense fighting.

  • Trump says sending hospital boat to Greenland to treat ‘many sick people’

    Trump says sending hospital boat to Greenland to treat ‘many sick people’

    Former President Donald Trump declared via his Truth Social platform on Saturday that a U.S. naval hospital ship is en route to Greenland, citing a need to provide medical care for “many sick people” in the autonomous Danish territory. The announcement revives attention on Trump’s longstanding strategic interest in the Arctic region.

    The post featured an apparent AI-generated image depicting the USNS Mercy, an 894-foot medical vessel typically stationed off Southern California, approaching Greenland’s distinctive snow-capped mountains. Trump provided no specific details regarding the nature of the medical crisis, the number of affected individuals, or verification that the Mercy is actually the vessel being deployed.

    This development occurs within the context of significantly strained U.S.-Denmark relations following Trump’s repeated expressions of desire to acquire Greenland, at one point threatening forcible seizure. His administration has consistently framed the mineral-rich territory as vital to U.S. and NATO security interests, particularly concerning Russian and Chinese Arctic expansion.

    The initiative is reportedly coordinated with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, whom Trump designated as his special envoy to Greenland in December. During recent Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans, Landry posted a photograph of himself alongside Greenlandic representatives holding the territory’s flag, captioning it, “Great to host some of the wonderful people of Greenland.”

    This announcement follows closely after Danish King Frederik X’s visit to Greenland, a trip that carried heightened significance given the geopolitical tensions surrounding Trump’s overtures. Last month, Trump temporarily stepped back from acquisition threats after negotiating a preliminary framework with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to secure increased U.S. influence in the region without formal transfer of sovereignty.

  • The US deported a gay asylum-seeker to a third country where homosexuality is illegal

    The US deported a gay asylum-seeker to a third country where homosexuality is illegal

    In a controversial move that has drawn sharp criticism from immigration advocates, the Trump administration has deported a Moroccan woman with a valid US immigration protection order to Cameroon—a country where she had no connections and where homosexuality remains criminalized.

    Farah, a 21-year-old gay woman who fled Morocco after facing violent persecution from her family, endured a harrowing journey through six countries before reaching the US border in early 2025. Despite receiving a judicial protection order in August that explicitly prohibited her deportation to Morocco due to life-threatening risks, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials transported her to Cameroon just three days before her scheduled release hearing.

    Her case represents one of dozens confirmed instances where migrants with legal protection from US immigration judges have been deported to third countries under the administration’s “third-country agreements” with African nations. According to legal representatives, all nine deportees on the January flight to Cameroon possessed similar protection orders.

    Legal experts have condemned the practice as a dangerous loophole that violates both US immigration laws and international treaties. Alma David, an immigration lawyer with Novo Legal Group, stated: “By deporting them to Cameroon, and giving them no opportunity to contest being sent to a country whose government hoped to quietly send them back to the very countries where they face grave danger, the US not only violated their due process rights but our own immigration laws.”

    The Department of Homeland Security defended the actions, asserting: “We are applying the law as written. If a judge finds an illegal alien has no right to be in this country, we are going to remove them. Period.”

    Currently, at least seven African nations—including Cameroon, South Sudan, Rwanda, Uganda, Eswatini, Ghana, and Equatorial Guinea—have entered into agreements with the US to accept deported third-country nationals. Senate Foreign Relations Committee documents reveal the administration has spent approximately $40 million to deport about 300 migrants to countries other than their own.

    Farah, now back in Morocco and living in hiding, expressed her disillusionment: “What was done to me was unfair. A normal deportation would have been fair, but to go through so much and lose so much, only to be deported in such a way, is cruel.”

  • A long-acting HIV drug arrives in Zimbabwe for some at highest risk

    A long-acting HIV drug arrives in Zimbabwe for some at highest risk

    ZIMBABWE has emerged as a pioneering nation in the global fight against HIV/AIDS by launching a groundbreaking twice-yearly preventive injection that promises to transform prevention strategies for vulnerable populations. The revolutionary drug lenacapavir, administered just semiannually, represents a significant advancement over daily oral PrEP medications that have long posed adherence challenges for high-risk groups.

    At a dedicated rollout event in Harare’s outskirts, diverse beneficiaries including sex workers, young mothers, and LGBTQ+ individuals received their initial injections in mobile clinic settings. The atmosphere reflected both hope and relief among recipients who have struggled with the practical limitations of existing prevention methods.

    Developed by California-based pharmaceutical innovator Gilead Sciences, this long-acting injectable demonstrates near-total protection efficacy in clinical trials. The African rollout across ten nations including Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Eswatini receives substantial support through PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) in collaboration with the Global Fund.

    Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora emphasized the transformative potential during the launch ceremony: ‘Effective prevention must integrate seamlessly into real lives. When health solutions prove overly complex, demanding, or visibly stigmatizing, compliance inevitably suffers. Lenacapavir fundamentally reimagines our approach to HIV prevention.’

    Despite Zimbabwe’s remarkable progress in epidemic control—achieving WHO testing, treatment, and viral suppression targets—new infections persist concerningly among adolescent girls and young women. UN data reveals HIV prevalence among sub-Saharan African females aged 10-24 remains persistently triple that of male counterparts, driven by structural inequalities and healthcare access disparities.

    Practical implementation challenges loom large, however. With each injection costing approximately $54 annually per person even at negotiated nonprofit pricing, sustainable scaling remains financially constrained for many African governments. Health infrastructure limitations and diminishing foreign aid further complicate widespread accessibility.

    Medical professionals stress that lenacapavir should complement rather replace existing prevention tools. ‘Condoms remain essential—they’re affordable and prevent additional sexually transmitted infections,’ noted Enerst Chikwati of AIDS Healthcare Foundation.

    For early recipients like Constance Mukoloka, a 27-year-old sex worker, the injection already delivers profound impact: ‘This means security and professional confidence. Daily pills created client suspicion and scheduling difficulties. Now I can work without compromising protection for six months.’

  • New Zealand-Pakistan Super Eight World Cup clash rained off

    New Zealand-Pakistan Super Eight World Cup clash rained off

    Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium witnessed a complete washout of the highly anticipated Super Eight stage match between Pakistan and New Zealand in the ICC Twenty20 World Cup on Saturday. The encounter was abandoned without a single delivery being bowled due to unrelenting heavy rainfall that commenced immediately following the coin toss.

    Pakistan captain had won the toss and elected to bat first, but persistent drizzle prevented any play from commencing. Match officials maintained hope for a reduced-overs contest throughout the evening, but conditions failed to improve. After multiple inspections, umpires officially called off the match at 9:05 PM local time (15:35 GMT), determining that even a minimum five-over per side contest couldn’t be conducted before the 10:16 PM cutoff deadline.

    The abandonment results in both teams receiving one point each in the Group 2 standings of the Super Eight phase. This outcome significantly impacts the tournament dynamics as Pakistan, New Zealand, England, and co-hosts Sri Lanka now compete for two semi-final qualification spots from this group.

    In the parallel Group 1, defending champions India are positioned alongside South Africa, Zimbabwe, and West Indies, with identical qualification rules applying. The meteorological disruption marks the first complete washout in the Super Eight stage of this tournament, raising concerns about scheduling and weather contingencies for future matches in the Sri Lankan leg of the competition.