Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Dubai: When, where to watch Al Etihad Parade on UAE National Day; guidelines to follow

    Dubai: When, where to watch Al Etihad Parade on UAE National Day; guidelines to follow

    Dubai authorities have unveiled detailed operational guidelines for the upcoming Al Etihad Parade, scheduled for December 2nd to commemorate the UAE’s 54th National Day. The event represents a collaborative effort between Brand Dubai, the creative division of the Government of Dubai Media Office, and the Events Security Committee in Dubai.

    The procession will commence at Dubai Maritime City at 3:00 PM, proceeding along Jumeirah Road from Union House intersection to Burj Al Arab intersection between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM. This carefully planned route aims to showcase national pride while maintaining public safety and traffic flow.

    Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, emphasized that strict adherence to established protocols is essential for participant safety and for delivering an event that reflects Dubai’s cultural values. The initiative forms part of the broader ‘National Month’ campaign launched under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.

    Security measures will include deployed police patrols along the parade route and volunteer support from the Community Development Authority, with over 30 volunteers distributing more than 1,000 UAE flags to participants.

    The comprehensive guidelines prohibit numerous activities including unauthorized processions, vehicle stunts, obstruction of traffic, window obstructions, celebratory aerosol products, excessive passenger loads, inappropriate decorations, fireworks usage, license plate concealment, unauthorized vehicle modifications, and excessively loud music. Violations may result in penalties ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 100,000, vehicle impoundment exceeding 90 days, 24 black points, and potential driving license suspension under Decree No. 30.

    Organizers urge participants to remain within vehicles while moving, maintain cleanliness standards, and follow all traffic instructions to ensure a secure and smoothly executed national celebration. The public is encouraged to monitor official channels for latest updates and instructions.

  • Want to join UAE’s military forces? MoD announces openings for national cadres

    Want to join UAE’s military forces? MoD announces openings for national cadres

    The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence has launched a comprehensive recruitment initiative targeting Emirati citizens seeking to join the nation’s prestigious military forces. The Presidential Guard Command officially announced the opening of applications, providing detailed eligibility criteria and recruitment procedures through official social media channels.

    Prospective candidates must meet stringent requirements including UAE citizenship, age between 18 and 30 years, medical fitness, and a minimum height of 160cm. The recruitment drive represents a significant opportunity for national service and career development within the country’s elite defense apparatus.

    The Ministry has established multiple recruitment centers across all seven emirates with specified contact numbers for each location: Fujairah (Heritage Village): 026187885 / 0508073062, Abu Dhabi: 044026055, Al Ain: 037121741, Dubai: 0508073950, Sharjah: 072071515, Ras Al Khaimah: 026187885, and Umm Al Quwain: 0508073950.

    Recruitment operations will occur during evening hours from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM at various locations throughout late November and early December 2025. The scheduled recruitment dates and venues include: Ras Al Khaimah Expo (November 29-30), Umm Al Quwain Waterfront (December 1-2), and Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed/Al Wathba Festival (December 2-3).

    This strategic initiative strengthens national defense capabilities while providing career opportunities for Emirati youth in the military sector, reflecting the government’s commitment to developing indigenous defense personnel and enhancing national security infrastructure.

  • Guinea-Bissau’s coup called a ‘sham’ by West African political figures

    Guinea-Bissau’s coup called a ‘sham’ by West African political figures

    In a development that has sparked regional controversy, the military intervention in Guinea-Bissau that displaced President Umaro Sissoco Embaló is being characterized as a fabricated coup by prominent West African figures. The political upheaval occurred precisely as the nation awaited official results from its recent presidential election, with military authorities subsequently suspending the electoral process and preventing the release of outcomes.

    Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan have jointly expressed skepticism regarding the nature of the power transition. Jonathan, who headed an election observation mission from the West African Elders Forum, notably described the event as a ‘ceremonial coup’ rather than a genuine military takeover. He highlighted the unusual circumstance of President Embaló personally announcing his own deposition to France 24 television, contrasting this with established patterns of regional coups.

    The ousted leader arrived in Senegal via military transport late Thursday following his release by the armed forces that overthrew his administration. Meanwhile, General Horta N’Tam has been proclaimed transitional president and has appointed former Finance Minister Ilídio Vieira Té as prime minister.

    The military justification centers on claims of preventing a destabilization plot allegedly supported by unidentified politicians and a known drug trafficker. However, these assertions remain unsubstantiated by publicly presented evidence.

    International response has been swift, with both the African Union and ECOWAS regional bloc suspending Guinea-Bissau’s membership in response to the unconstitutional power change. These organizations have concurrently urged military forces to return to their barracks and restore constitutional order.

    Citizen reactions in the capital city of Bissau reflect profound division. While some residents expressed frustration over renewed instability, others cautiously welcomed military intervention as a potential catalyst for improved living conditions in a nation historically plagued by political volatility and drug trafficking influences.

  • Addabbo clinches breakthrough victory in MENA Tour opener with ice-cool final round

    Addabbo clinches breakthrough victory in MENA Tour opener with ice-cool final round

    In a remarkable display of mental fortitude and technical precision, Italy’s Ludovico Addabbo secured his maiden professional victory at the Aroeira Challenge, the inaugural event of the 2025-26 MENA Golf Tour season. The 27-year-old, who began the tournament ranked 1,909th globally, demonstrated championship composure throughout the competition held at PGA Aroeira near Lisbon.

    Addabbo’s triumph was built upon three consistently brilliant rounds: an opening 66, followed by 67, and culminating in a spectacular final-round 65. His 18-under-par total of 198 secured a decisive three-stroke victory over Portuguese favorite Pedro Figueiredo, earning him the $18,000 top prize from the $100,000 purse.

    The Italian’s victory was particularly impressive given the pressure of entering the final round with a one-shot lead. He immediately established control with birdies on the second and third holes, effectively neutralizing any early tension. His performance peaked on the 17th hole with a stunning chip-in birdie that virtually sealed his breakthrough win.

    “I’m incredibly happy,” Addabbo expressed after being celebrated by fellow players on the 18th green. “I anticipated more nerves, but maintaining presence throughout the round proved crucial. I deliberately avoided leaderboard checks until the 17th to prevent unnecessary pressure.”

    Local contender Figueiredo thrilled home crowds with a dramatic eagle on the 17th from the rough, securing solo second place with a 15-under total. Scotland’s Sebastian Sandin, who shared the first-round lead with Addabbo, saw his challenge diminish with three bogeys in the final four holes, finishing third at 13-under.

    Tour commissioner Keith Waters praised Addabbo’s performance: “Ludovico delivered an outstanding round and handled pressure like a true champion. The celebration with his Italian peers on the final green perfectly captured the MENA Tour’s spirit.”

    The tournament saw 46 players finish under par, with Q School winner Chris Wood tying for seventh at 10-under. The tour continues in Portugal with the Rolear Algarve Classic at Amendoeira Course from December 2-4, before moving to Egypt and Morocco in the new year.

  • Raffle draws, games at UAE National Day celebrations for workers across 30 locations

    Raffle draws, games at UAE National Day celebrations for workers across 30 locations

    The United Arab Emirates is set to host expansive National Day festivities specifically designed for workers across more than 30 locations nationwide on December 1. Organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in partnership with multiple government entities, the celebrations operate under the theme ‘Our Workers’ Happiness in Our Union’s Celebration’.

    The comprehensive event schedule features diverse activities including talent competitions where workers can demonstrate singing and performance abilities, various sports tournaments, interactive games, and knowledge-based quizzes. Participants will have opportunities to win prizes through raffle draws while commemorative gifts will be distributed throughout the day.

    According to Mohsin Ali Al Nassi, MoHRE’s Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection and Compliance, these celebrations represent an ongoing commitment to worker welfare and social integration. ‘These efforts are rooted in our recognition that workers are among the pillars of sustainable development in our country and an essential component of the UAE labour market,’ Al Nassi stated.

    Several prominent companies including Sobha Group, Binghatti Group, and Arabian Construction Company will concurrently host celebrations at their respective labor accommodations. Private sector organizations interested in participating can register through the dedicated portal at nationalday2025.ensure.ae to select appropriate activities based on geographic proximity.

    The collaborative event involves coordination with the Ministry of Interior, Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), multiple police departments, municipal authorities, and AD Ports Group, demonstrating a whole-of-government approach to honoring the contributions of workers during the national anniversary.

  • AU condemns coup in Guinea-Bissau, calls for return to constitutional order

    AU condemns coup in Guinea-Bissau, calls for return to constitutional order

    The African Union has issued a forceful condemnation of Wednesday’s military coup in Guinea-Bissau, demanding the immediate restoration of constitutional order after armed forces seized power and detained President Umaro Sissoco Embalo along with several senior government officials.

    In a strongly worded statement released Thursday, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf declared the military takeover a clear violation of the bloc’s fundamental principles. The coup occurred at a particularly sensitive moment as the nation awaited the official announcement of national election results.

    Youssouf reiterated the continental body’s absolute zero-tolerance policy toward unconstitutional government changes. He referenced a joint statement issued November 26 by AU election observers and other stakeholders that had emphasized the critical importance of protecting electoral integrity.

    The AU chair specifically emphasized that Guinea-Bissau’s National Electoral Commission maintains exclusive legal authority to announce official results, urging all parties to respect its constitutional role. He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of President Embalo and all detained officials while calling for maximum restraint to prevent further escalation.

    The African Union expressed its readiness to collaborate closely with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and international partners to facilitate dialogue, ensure stability, and achieve a lawful resolution to the escalating crisis. Youssouf reaffirmed the Union’s solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau during this critical period, emphasizing the AU’s continued commitment to supporting their pursuit of peace, stability, and democratic consolidation.

  • UAE: Sheikh Mohammed approves 3,567 housing decisions worth Dh2.5 billion in 2025

    UAE: Sheikh Mohammed approves 3,567 housing decisions worth Dh2.5 billion in 2025

    In a significant move to address citizen welfare, UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has authorized 3,567 housing decisions valued at Dh2.5 billion for implementation throughout 2025. This substantial allocation demonstrates the government’s continued commitment to providing housing solutions for Emirati citizens across various economic segments.

    The comprehensive housing package encompasses multiple assistance formats designed to cater to different needs. The initiative includes direct housing grants for low-income individuals, government-subsidized housing units, and collaborative housing finance programs operated in partnership with national banking institutions.

    Detailed breakdown reveals that 524 housing decisions originated from a special presidential grant program totaling Dh356.3 million. Additionally, 623 government housing loans worth over Dh270 million were approved alongside 32 government housing grants valued at Dh25.4 million. The largest portion comprised 2,388 housing finance decisions amounting to Dh1.894 billion facilitated through banking partnerships.

    During the final quarter of the current year, the Zayed Housing Programme has already processed 599 housing decisions worth Dh478 million. This quarterly distribution included two presidential grants valued at Dh1.3 million, 31 government housing loans worth Dh25.2 million, eight government housing grants totaling Dh6.4 million, and 558 housing finance decisions amounting to Dh445.1 million.

    The strategic distribution mechanism ensures comprehensive coverage across different socioeconomic groups while maintaining fiscal responsibility. This housing initiative represents a cornerstone of the UAE’s social development strategy, providing tangible support for citizens’ housing needs through multiple channels of assistance.

  • Parents of abducted children plead with the Nigerian government for news of rescue

    Parents of abducted children plead with the Nigerian government for news of rescue

    PAPIRI, Nigeria — Anxious families congregated Friday at the site of a recently attacked Catholic school in north-central Nigeria, issuing urgent appeals to authorities for the safe return of their children. The emotional gathering comes one week after armed militants stormed the educational facility, capturing more than 300 students and staff members in a brazen early morning assault on November 21.

    According to school administrators, approximately 50 children successfully escaped their captors, but more than 250 remain in militant custody. The incident represents the latest in a disturbing pattern of mass school abductions that have plagued the West African nation.

    “These kidnapped children include some of extremely tender age,” recounted Abuchi Nwolisa, a distraught parent at the school. “The attackers literally snatched some directly from their sleeping beds.”

    The crisis has prompted President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency, authorizing enhanced police powers to address the escalating security situation. This abduction marks the second major school kidnapping within a fortnight, following a separate incident in Kebbi where 30 students were taken before eventually being secured through government intervention.

    Historical data reveals the alarming frequency of such attacks, with at least a dozen mass school abductions occurring since 2014. According to documentation, approximately 1,799 students have been kidnapped during this period, with some never successfully rescued.

    Stephen Okafor, spokesperson for the Minna Catholic Mission, emphasized the devastating scope: “We have parents with two, three, even five children currently held by abductors. We are here to demonstrate the devastating reality of this situation to the world.”

    The security crisis has drawn international attention, including recent threats of military intervention from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who cited widespread persecution of Christians. Nigerian officials have rejected these characterizations, maintaining that the security threats represent complex challenges affecting all citizens regardless of religious affiliation.

  • Huawei celebrates smart fitness and youth empowerment through its month-long campaign at the DFC 2025

    Huawei celebrates smart fitness and youth empowerment through its month-long campaign at the DFC 2025

    During the recently concluded Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025, Huawei emerged as a pivotal force in redefining urban wellness through technological innovation. The month-long November initiative saw the tech giant deploy its comprehensive ecosystem of smart devices and digital platforms to foster community health engagement across Dubai.

    Huawei’s strategic partnership with Dubai Ride 2025 exemplified its commitment to creating seamless connections between digital innovation and physical wellbeing. At Zabeel Park, the company transformed its Huawei Health+ application into a real-world fitness hub, offering weekly complimentary training sessions that attracted diverse community participants.

    A landmark achievement came through Huawei’s collaboration with the Asian Paralympic Committee and Dubai Club for People of Determination. The technology leader unveiled its groundbreaking Wheelchair Mode feature on the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6, developed through consultations with APC President Majid Rashed. This innovation provides wheelchair users with precise tracking of movement metrics, demonstrating technology’s power to create inclusive fitness solutions.

    The company’s TruSense System took center stage, showcasing advanced capabilities in monitoring over 60 health parameters including emotional wellbeing indicators. This sophisticated health monitoring technology represents Huawei’s significant investment in human-centric innovation.

    Lei Cheng, Chief Marketing Officer of Huawei Consumer Business Group for Middle East and Africa, emphasized the company’s philosophy: “Our technological development prioritizes human potential enhancement. We envision fitness as an organic lifestyle component where technology serves as an enabler for richer life experiences and sustainable wellbeing.”

    Through interactive challenges, community workouts, and smart wearable integration, Huawei successfully created a holistic fitness ecosystem that extended beyond physical events into continuous digital engagement. The initiative supported Dubai’s broader vision of becoming a health-conscious, technology-enabled smart city while empowering youth and diverse community segments to adopt sustainable wellness practices.

  • Watch: ‘Lethal’ basketball player makes shot from over 100ft-high helicopter in Dubai

    Watch: ‘Lethal’ basketball player makes shot from over 100ft-high helicopter in Dubai

    In an extraordinary display of precision and nerve, professional basketball marksman Chris Matthews successfully executed a record-breaking basket from a helicopter hovering over 100 feet above Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah. The aerial spectacle, performed on November 28, 2025, demonstrated remarkable coordination between athlete and pilot under challenging atmospheric conditions.

    The daring attempt required Matthews to maintain intense focus while positioned at the helicopter’s open doorway, with legs suspended above the iconic artificial archipelago. Despite significant wind interference and aircraft vibration, the athlete delivered a perfect shot into a ground-positioned hoop after meticulous aerial positioning by pilot Captain Husam Gamal.

    Matthews immediately credited the aviation expert for the achievement, stating the pilot contributed “90 percent of the work” through continuous hover adjustments and stabilization maneuvers. The wind conditions presented particular challenges, with Matthews describing the experience as “trying to aim a paper in a storm” due to atmospheric forces affecting ball trajectory.

    The demonstration served as a promotional highlight coinciding with Dubai’s hosting of the Red Bull Half Court World Final, an international basketball tournament featuring competitors from multiple continents. Matthews emphasized the symbolic nature of the stunt, intended to showcase basketball’s universal appeal across diverse environments and skill levels.

    Following the successful attempt, Matthews expressed particular appreciation for Dubai’s aerial landscape, describing the Palm Jumeirah as “splendid” and the city as a “visual treat” from elevation. The achievement represents one of the most remarkable basketball shots ever attempted under non-traditional conditions.