Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • NBA star Bane eyes Nigeria switch ahead of 2028 Olympics

    NBA star Bane eyes Nigeria switch ahead of 2028 Olympics

    Orlando Magic shooting guard Desmond Bane has expressed strong interest in representing Nigeria’s national basketball team, potentially transforming D’Tigers’ Olympic prospects for the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Despite being officially listed as American by the NBA, Bane confirmed his Nigerian heritage and revealed ongoing discussions with fellow NBA players of Nigerian descent about forming a competitive national squad.

    The 27-year-old athlete specifically mentioned recruiting conversations with Indiana Pacers’ Aaron Nesmith and Los Angeles Lakers’ Gabe Vincent, while noting that Houston Rockets guard Josh Okogie already represents Nigeria internationally. Additional Nigerian-heritage players in the league include Sacramento Kings’ Precious Achiuwa and Philadelphia 76ers’ Adem Bona, creating a substantial talent pool for potential national team selection.

    Nigeria’s basketball program faces significant challenges despite previous Olympic appearances in 2012, 2016, and 2020. Currently ranked 50th globally by FIBA and seventh in Africa, the team missed qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Their path to the 2028 Games involves either exceptional performance at the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar or success in a separate African Olympic qualification tournament featuring six nations.

    The development coincides with the NBA’s continued global expansion, evidenced by recent Global Games in Berlin and London. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver discussed potential European league development during the Berlin events, building on the established Basketball Africa League that launched in 2021 with NBA support. Bane praised basketball’s growing international talent pool, noting the sport’s increasing global reach and the emergence of skilled players from diverse backgrounds.

  • Multilateralism offers Africa stability

    Multilateralism offers Africa stability

    At the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, conducted under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue,” African policymakers and thought leaders have emerged as vocal proponents of China’s advocacy for multilateralism. This endorsement arrives amidst a global landscape increasingly characterized by geopolitical friction, unilateral economic measures, and restrictive trade policies.

    African analysts perceive a distinct shift toward inward-looking economic postures from traditional Western partners, evidenced by rising trade tariffs, stringent visa regulations, and a reduction in overseas development assistance. In contrast, China’s commitment to an open and inclusive global economic framework is being hailed as a crucial stabilizing force for the continent. This perspective is not viewed through an ideological lens but rather as a pragmatic necessity for sustainable development.

    Carlos Lopes, Professor at the University of Cape Town’s Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance, emphasized the substantive value of China’s stance. “China’s advocacy carries real weight for African nations,” Lopes stated. “It functions as a vital counterbalance to exclusionary economic blocs and unilateral decision-making processes that have historically marginalized African interests and priorities.”

    The alignment between Africa and China is rooted in shared developmental objectives, including the preservation of policy space, critical infrastructure expansion, accelerated industrialization, and access to long-term development financing. This synergy was further highlighted by Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng’s address at the forum, which called for reinforced commitment to free trade, multilateral dialogue, and inclusive growth, alongside pledges to expand technological innovation and green development initiatives.

    Olusoji Ajao, Founder and Executive Director of Nigeria’s Afrocentric Masterclass, pointed to the cooperative nature of Sino-African relations. “China’s approach resonates because it is framed around cooperation, not conditionality or competition,” Ajao noted. He described the relationship as one of economic complementarity, where China’s manufacturing prowess synergizes with Africa’s expanding consumer market, creating potential for mutual prosperity rather than rivalry.

    Concrete Chinese policies, such as the zero-tariff treatment for goods originating from 53 African nations, provide tangible benefits, offering African economies vital breathing room to diversify exports and integrate into global value chains. However, experts concurrently stress that external partnerships must be matched by robust internal African cooperation and strategic engagement in global forums to secure meaningful structural change and ensure dialogue translates into substantive action.

  • Goldman Sachs raises 2026-end gold price forecast by $500 to $5,400/oz

    Goldman Sachs raises 2026-end gold price forecast by $500 to $5,400/oz

    In a significant revision of its precious metals outlook, Goldman Sachs has elevated its gold price forecast for late 2026 to $5,400 per ounce, representing a substantial $500 increase from its previous projection of $4,900. This bullish adjustment comes as the investment bank observes robust patterns of institutional and central bank diversification into the traditional safe-haven asset.

    The current market trajectory supports this optimistic outlook, with spot gold reaching a notable peak of $4,887.82 per ounce mid-week. The precious metal has demonstrated remarkable strength throughout 2026, registering an impressive 11% year-to-date gain that builds upon last year’s extraordinary 64% surge.

    Goldman analysts attribute this sustained rally primarily to private sector entities utilizing gold holdings as strategic hedges against global policy uncertainties. In a research note released Wednesday, the brokerage emphasized that these diversification-driven purchases have consistently exceeded price expectations, effectively establishing a higher baseline for future valuations.

    Concurrently, the investment bank anticipates renewed interest from Western exchange-traded funds as monetary policy evolves. Goldman projects the U.S. Federal Reserve will implement approximately 50 basis points of interest rate reductions during 2026, potentially enhancing gold’s appeal relative to yield-bearing assets.

    Central bank activity remains another critical supportive factor, with emerging market institutions expected to maintain substantial gold acquisitions averaging 60 metric tons throughout 2026. This sustained official sector demand reflects ongoing efforts to diversify reserve portfolios away from traditional fiat currencies.

    Despite the overwhelmingly positive outlook, Goldman analysts caution that any substantial reduction in perceived global monetary policy risks could trigger liquidation of policy hedge positions, potentially creating downward pressure on gold valuations.

  • Restaurant Review: An elevated lunch experience at Al Muntaha

    Restaurant Review: An elevated lunch experience at Al Muntaha

    Perched dramatically atop the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Al Muntaha restaurant has redefined luxury dining in Dubai through an extraordinary lunch service that transcends conventional culinary expectations. The establishment offers patrons more than mere sustenance—it delivers a theatrical performance of gastronomic excellence set against breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.

    The arrival experience evokes cinematic grandeur, with the restaurant’s circular architecture and floor-to-ceiling windows creating an atmosphere reminiscent of sophisticated spy thrillers. While the visual spectacle of yachts dotting the azure waters below provides a mesmerizing backdrop, it is the culinary artistry and impeccable service that truly distinguish this venue.

    Service commences with an elegant welcome featuring French beverages and expertly crafted canapés, including delicate tuna tartare tartlets and mushroom cream creations adorned with white summer truffles. The meal progresses with an artisanal bread selection accompanied by premium Burgundy butter, setting the stage for an exceptional tasting journey.

    The culinary narrative unfolds through a meticulously curated progression of dishes: smoked yellowtail crowned with 24k golden albino caviar provides a refreshing opening, followed by homemade tagliolini enveloped in an emulsified sauce of fresh truffle and Pecorino Romano. The centerpiece emerges as Lacaune lamb—reportedly the most tender preparation sampled by the reviewer—accompanied by turnip tops, winter melon, and salsa all’Italiana, achieving perfect harmony between robust meat and delicate accompaniments.

    A savory sorbet of Jerusalem artichoke and additional white truffle serves as an innovative palate cleanser before the final act: a citrus and coconut composition featuring coconut sorbet, meringue, and fresh citrus that provides a refreshing conclusion to the lavish experience.

    Throughout the service, staff demonstrate charismatic professionalism and anticipatory attention to detail, enhancing the overall atmosphere of refined indulgence. Al Muntaha has successfully crafted a multisensory dining experience that combines architectural grandeur, culinary innovation, and service excellence, establishing new standards for luxury lunch offerings in Dubai’s competitive culinary landscape.

  • Ruuska storms to victory with stunning 62 at Egypt Golf Series New Giza

    Ruuska storms to victory with stunning 62 at Egypt Golf Series New Giza

    In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Finnish golfer Lauri Ruuska mounted an extraordinary comeback to secure victory at the Egypt Golf Series New Giza tournament. The professional golfer, competing in his first tournament since September, delivered a stunning performance with a ten-under-par 62 in the final round at New Giza Golf Club.

    Ruuska’s spectacular round featured ten birdies, enabling him to overcome a seven-shot deficit against overnight leader Ludovico Addabbo. The Finnish athlete finished the tournament at 14 under par, narrowly edging out American contender Charlie Crockett by a single stroke. Ruuska’s front nine included six birdies, followed by four additional birdies on the back nine, culminating in a decisive birdie on the final hole that established an unbeatable clubhouse target.

    Following his victory, Ruuska revealed his recent struggles on the DP World Tour and HotelPlanner Tour, explaining that he had taken a six-week complete break from golf to reset his approach to the game. The champion attributed his success to significant improvements in his putting technique, which he refined during practice sessions at his hotel after the initial rounds.

    American golfer Charlie Crockett posted a solid 67 in the final round to claim second place at 13 under par. The competition saw first-round leader Zan Luka Stirn and Italy’s Aron Zemmer sharing third position at 12 under, while overnight leader Addabbo dropped to a tie for seventh place after carding a final-round 73.

    Ruuska’s victory earned him $18,000 from the tournament’s $100,000 prize fund, along with valuable Official World Golf Ranking points. The event marks the beginning of the MENA Golf Tour’s Egypt swing, with the next tournament scheduled at Address Marassi Golf Resort on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast starting January 24th.

  • Inside RAK’s first aid ship to Gaza to send 4,000 tonnes of supplies before Ramadan

    Inside RAK’s first aid ship to Gaza to send 4,000 tonnes of supplies before Ramadan

    In a significant expansion of its humanitarian operations, Ras Al Khaimah has launched its inaugural maritime aid mission to Gaza, deploying a vessel carrying 4,000 tonnes of critical supplies destined for displaced Palestinian families ahead of Ramadan. The Saqr Humanitarian Ship departed from Ras Al Khaimah Port on January 22, embarking on a strategic journey to Egypt’s Port of Al Arish with an anticipated arrival date of February 5.

    The comprehensive cargo aboard represents a meticulously coordinated response to urgent needs in Gaza, containing food provisions for bakeries and communal kitchens, specialized Ramadan food parcels, clothing, blankets, shelter materials, and essential medical supplies to reinforce overwhelmed healthcare facilities. This shipment marks the 23rd humanitarian vessel dispatched under the UAE’s coordinated Gaza relief efforts.

    Hamoud Saeed Al Afari, Relief Operations Coordinator for Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, emphasized the strategic nature of this assistance: ‘This vessel carries essential supplies carefully selected based on urgent humanitarian needs, particularly in preparation for Ramadan. Our goal is to ensure aid reaches families, hospitals, and relief centers as quickly and efficiently as possible.’

    The UAE’s humanitarian infrastructure extends beyond maritime deliveries, encompassing a field hospital in Gaza, an operational eye hospital in Al Arish, and six constructed water desalination plants. These efforts are supplemented by daily water deliveries, sustained support for food production facilities, and comprehensive medical assistance that has facilitated treatment for 1,000 Palestinian children and 1,000 cancer patients within UAE facilities.

    Notably, this mission represents Ras Al Khaimah Port’s inaugural participation in humanitarian maritime operations, joining other UAE ports including Fujairah, Al Hamriyah in Dubai, and Khalifa Port in this coordinated effort. To date, the UAE has delivered more than 737 humanitarian flights and over 10,000 aid trucks into Gaza, accounting for more than 46% of total international assistance.

    The Saqr Mohammed Al Qasimi Foundation for Charity and Humanitarian Work fully funded and loaded this historic shipment, marking the foundation’s first complete humanitarian ship contribution. Mohammed Al Shareef, official spokesperson for Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, confirmed that aid selection was based on real-time assessments by UAE field teams to ensure alignment with the most pressing civilian needs.

    With total aid volume under Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 reaching 110,000 tonnes valued at over $2.6 billion, the UAE continues to dominate international relief efforts for Gaza. A subsequent humanitarian vessel carrying more than 7,000 tonnes of aid is already scheduled for loading and dispatch in early February, reinforcing the sustained pipeline of assistance.

  • ‘Blood was all over’ – victim of Nigeria church abduction describes escape

    ‘Blood was all over’ – victim of Nigeria church abduction describes escape

    A 60-year-old Nigerian woman identified as Sarah Peter has described her miraculous escape from armed kidnappers who attacked her church in Kurmin Wali village, approximately 135km north of Abuja. The assault occurred during Sunday morning worship services when gunmen stormed multiple churches in the region.

    Sarah, whose name has been changed for security reasons, sustained a severe head injury when attackers struck her with a rifle butt to force compliance. ‘Blood was all over,’ she recounted, visibly traumatized days after the incident. Despite her injuries and physical limitations, she managed to hide from her captors during the forced march and crawled back to safety.

    The coordinated attacks targeted branches of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church and two other congregations, resulting in what local Christian Association of Nigeria officials describe as over 160 missing persons. While 11 worshippers including Sarah successfully escaped, the majority remain unaccounted for three days after the incident.

    Kurmin Wali’s proximity to Rijana forest in Kaduna state presents particular security challenges, as the area serves as a known hideout for criminal gangs locally referred to as ‘bandits.’ These groups have increasingly engaged in ransom-driven abductions across Nigeria’s northwestern region, creating a widespread security crisis.

    Authorities initially denied the attacks occurred despite eyewitness accounts, only confirming the incidents after 48 hours of confusion. Local residents have accused officials of attempting to suppress information about the kidnappings, with reports of journalists being blocked from accessing the village.

    Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani eventually visited the traumatized community, promising to establish a military base between the village and Rijana forest, construct a hospital and road infrastructure, and provide medical support to affected residents. ‘We cannot relocate them because they have to farm… but to ensure that we protect them going forward, we need to have a military base,’ Governor Sani told the BBC.

    The attack reflects Nigeria’s escalating security challenges, with kidnapping for ransom becoming increasingly commonplace despite official prohibitions on payments to captors. While international attention has grown regarding religious targeting in Nigeria, officials maintain that Muslims, Christians, and non-religious individuals have all been affected by the insecurity.

    Survivor Christopher Yohanna, who escaped with his two-year-old daughter but lost two wives and other children, encapsulated the community’s despair: ‘If my family is not with me then my life is worthless and free of any joy.’ As families await news of their missing relatives, they hope the governor’s security promises will materialize before further attacks occur.

  • Arada triples home sales to Dh17.3b as UAE property boom powers record year

    Arada triples home sales to Dh17.3b as UAE property boom powers record year

    Dubai-based master developer Arada has achieved unprecedented growth in 2025, capitalizing on the United Arab Emirates’ thriving real estate market with home sales reaching Dh17.3 billion—triple its previous year’s performance. The company reported selling 5,140 residential units throughout the year, representing a remarkable 199% year-on-year increase from the 2,171 units sold in 2024.

    This extraordinary sales performance generated substantial financial gains, with total revenue surging 170% to Dh6.7 billion. Earnings before interest, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) experienced even stronger growth, climbing 174% to Dh1.6 billion. This financial upswing reflects intensified project activity, accelerated absorption rates, and expanding contributions from the company’s diversified portfolio including hospitality, retail, wellness, and entertainment sectors.

    Arada’s success stemmed from several strategic initiatives, including the high-profile launch of Akala in Dubai—promoted as the world’s inaugural precision wellness destination—and the rapid sales of Masaar 2 and Masaar 3 residential communities in Sharjah. The company accelerated its construction pipeline, awarding contracts worth Dh12.7 billion for developments including Madar Mall in Aljada, Armani Beach Residences on Palm Jumeirah, and the Anantara Sharjah Resort and Residences.

    The developer’s record-breaking year mirrors the broader UAE property sector expansion. Dubai Land Department data indicates property sales increased 29% in 2025, exceeding Dh680 billion—the highest annual total recorded. Sharjah demonstrated even more dramatic growth, with transaction values rising 64% year-on-year to Dh65.6 billion according to the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department. Market analysts attribute this sustained growth to population expansion, business-friendly regulatory reforms, long-term visa programs, infrastructure investments, and continued economic diversification efforts.

    Concurrently, Arada pursued aggressive international expansion, committing Dh2.5 billion to acquire a 75% stake in British developer Regal (rebranded as Arada London) and securing an 80% holding in Thameside West, a mixed-use development in the UK capital. The company also advanced plans for its inaugural Sydney projects following its 2024 Australian market entry.

    Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, Arada’s Executive Vice Chairman, stated that the company’s performance demonstrates strong buyer confidence in its long-term vision. Group CEO Ahmed Alkhoshaibi confirmed the company exceeded its Dh15 billion sales target by over 15% and is preparing for another active year with planned project launches across the UAE, UK, and Australian markets.

    Since its establishment in 2017, Arada has launched 11 projects in the UAE and delivered more than 10,000 homes. With a global development pipeline valued at approximately Dh130 billion, the company is currently developing around 55,000 units internationally, positioning itself to benefit from both the UAE’s ongoing real estate expansion and its growing global footprint.

  • Osaka tones down outfit and beats Cirstea to reach Australian Open third round

    Osaka tones down outfit and beats Cirstea to reach Australian Open third round

    Former champion Naomi Osaka secured her place in the Australian Open third round with a hard-fought 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 victory over Romania’s Sorana Cirstea on Thursday. The match marked a noticeable shift in the Japanese star’s court presentation, as she opted for a more conventional athletic ensemble compared to her headline-making first-round outfit.

    Osaka’s previous marine-themed attire, complete with pastel yellow tassels, white parasol, veil, and broad-brimmed hat, had generated significant attention throughout the tournament. The bold fashion choice drew commendations from fellow players and became an instant talking point at Melbourne Park.

    When questioned about the overwhelming response to her initial outfit, Osaka expressed surprise: ‘Honestly, not really. For me, it’s just something fun I love to do on the court. I don’t really talk that much but I like to express myself through clothes.’

    Despite her toned-down appearance for the second round, fans at Margaret Court Arena paid homage to Osaka’s distinctive style by wearing replica hats and veils. The four-time Grand Slam champion acknowledged their support, saying, ‘I’m really glad that you guys loved it. You guys look really cool by the way.’

    The match itself presented challenges for the 16th seed, who struggled initially with service breaks and unforced errors. After dropping the opening game, Osaka recovered to claim the first set. The experienced Cirstea, who announced this would be her final Australian Open before retiring at year’s end, fought back to level the match by taking the second set.

    The deciding set featured dramatic moments, including a medical timeout for Osaka while leading 3-1 and tension arising from Cirstea’s objection to Osaka’s motivational shouts between serves. Despite these interruptions, Osaka elevated her game with powerful groundstrokes to secure victory.

    Reflecting on the confrontation, Osaka commented: ‘(There were) apparently a lot of ‘come ons’ that she was angry about. I mean I tried to play well. I think I hit a lot of unforced errors but I tried my best. She’s a great player. I think this was her last Australian Open, so sorry she was mad about it.’

    Osaka now prepares to face Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis in the next round, continuing her campaign for a third Australian Open title following previous victories in 2019 and 2021.

  • Sharjah Islamic Bank proposes 20% cash dividend as it posts net profit of Dh1.3 billion for 2025

    Sharjah Islamic Bank proposes 20% cash dividend as it posts net profit of Dh1.3 billion for 2025

    Sharjah Islamic Bank has demonstrated remarkable financial resilience by announcing a net profit of Dh1.32 billion for fiscal year 2025, representing a substantial 26% increase from the previous year’s Dh1.05 billion. This outstanding performance has prompted the Board of Directors to recommend a generous 20% cash dividend distribution, significantly higher than the 15% payout in 2024, pending shareholder approval at the upcoming General Assembly.

    The bank’s financial expansion was particularly evident in its asset growth, with total assets surging by 14% to reach Dh90.3 billion, compared to Dh79.2 billion at the close of 2024. This robust growth was primarily fueled by a notable 19.6% increase in customer financing, which climbed to Dh45.6 billion from Dh38.1 billion in the preceding year.

    Revenue streams showed impressive diversification as income from Islamic financing investments and sukuk grew by 4.7% to approximately Dh3.9 billion. Meanwhile, net fees and commission income experienced exceptional growth, skyrocketing by 50% to reach Dh598.8 million. This contributed significantly to the bank’s total operating income, which expanded by 14% year-on-year to approximately Dh2.5 billion.

    Despite strategic investments in human capital development and technological infrastructure that pushed general and administrative expenses to Dh897.5 million (a 15.2% increase), the bank maintained strong operational efficiency. Operating income before impairment provisions grew by 13.3% to Dh1.6 billion, underscoring effective cost management practices.

    The institution’s risk management framework yielded substantial improvements, with net impairment on financial assets remaining stable at Dh217.0 million. Notably, the non-performing financing ratio decreased significantly to 3.8% from 4.9%, while the coverage ratio strengthened to 109% from 99.5%, reflecting enhanced portfolio quality.

    Customer deposits reached Dh55.7 billion, resulting in a healthy financing-to-deposit ratio of 81.8%. The bank maintained strong liquidity buffers at 22.3% of total assets, amounting to Dh20.2 billion. Profitability metrics showed consistent improvement, with return on average assets reaching 1.55% and return on average equity climbing to 14.78%.

    In a strategic move to bolster future growth, the Board approved a proposal to increase the bank’s capital, subject to regulatory approvals. This initiative will enable existing shareholders to subscribe to new shares, strengthening the capital base while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and supporting sustainable long-term returns.