标签: Africa

非洲

  • Cameroon ruling party office torched after election fraud claims, rising tensions

    Cameroon ruling party office torched after election fraud claims, rising tensions

    YAOUNDE, Cameroon — The Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), the nation’s governing party, reported on Thursday that one of its offices in the western city of Dschang was set on fire. This incident marks the latest escalation in the ongoing political turmoil following the October 12 presidential election, which has been marred by allegations of electoral fraud. Jean Nkuete, the party’s secretary general, confirmed the arson attack in a statement, vowing to pursue legal action against those responsible. Videos of the burning building circulated widely on social media and local news outlets, amplifying the unrest. The fire comes amid heightened tensions after opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary prematurely declared victory last week, urging 92-year-old President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest sitting president, to concede. Biya’s party has dismissed Tchiroma’s claims, accusing him of attempting to disrupt the electoral process. The constitutional court is expected to announce the final election results by October 26. Meanwhile, Tchiroma has alleged vote tampering, echoing reports from civil society groups of irregularities, including attempted ballot stuffing. Protests erupted in several cities on Wednesday night, with demonstrators in Douala, the economic capital, setting barricades ablaze. Security forces responded with tear gas and water cannons, though no casualties have been reported. The Prefect of Wouri, Sylyac Marie Mvogo, condemned the unrest, emphasizing that election matters should be handled by competent authorities. Analysts predict a victory for Biya, citing a divided opposition and the disqualification of his strongest rival in August. Tchiroma, a former government spokesperson, has garnered significant support from opposition parties and civic groups. Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, faces ongoing challenges, including a secessionist movement in the west and widespread corruption, despite the country’s rich natural resources.

  • New festival at Expo City Dubai allows children to play with goats on rooftop

    New festival at Expo City Dubai allows children to play with goats on rooftop

    Expo City Dubai has introduced a delightful new attraction this October and November at Terra, its sustainability-themed building. The rooftop garden now hosts five pygmy goats, offering children and families a unique opportunity to interact with these playful animals. The Goat Festival, designed to be both educational and entertaining, will take place on October 25-26 and November 1-2. Visitors can enjoy guided walking tours every 30 minutes, where they can meet the goats up close and learn about their role in maintaining healthy gardens. Additionally, the festival features a Rescue Animal Encounter, allowing families to meet and learn about rehabilitated animals. Children can also participate in creative activities such as making bookmarks, goat masks, and footprint art, as well as planting their own mini gardens. A dedicated game zone, ‘Be The GOAT,’ will be available for kids to enjoy independently. The festival runs from 10am to 6pm on the scheduled days, offering an indoor-outdoor experience. Tickets are priced at Dh50 for individuals aged three and above, with free entry for younger children. Tickets can be purchased on the official website.

  • Over 50% of online content generated by AI, but failing to engage, says UAE minister

    Over 50% of online content generated by AI, but failing to engage, says UAE minister

    In a striking revelation at Gitex Global 2025, Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, disclosed that over half of the internet’s content is now generated by artificial intelligence (AI). However, this AI-driven content is failing to capture human interest or rank well on search engines. ‘Approximately 52% of online content is AI-generated, while 48% remains human-created. Yet, we’re observing that search engines aren’t prioritizing AI content, and users aren’t engaging with it,’ Al Olama stated during a fireside chat. He attributed this lack of engagement to the overwhelming volume of uninteresting AI-generated material. The minister emphasized the need for agile policymaking to address the evolving impacts of AI, urging governments to regulate the technology effectively without overreach. Al Olama also highlighted the UAE’s unique approach to AI governance, including the appointment of chief AI officers across federal and Dubai government agencies. These officers are tasked with understanding AI’s frontiers and crafting proactive, well-informed regulations. He cautioned against overestimating AI’s capabilities and stressed the importance of balancing excitement with realistic expectations. ‘AI won’t solve every problem,’ he concluded, advocating for informed and balanced regulation.

  • Lawyers ask ICC to investigate 122 European officials for crimes against humanity in Mediterranean

    Lawyers ask ICC to investigate 122 European officials for crimes against humanity in Mediterranean

    The European Union’s collaboration with Libya on migration policies has come under intense scrutiny following a legal filing at the International Criminal Court (ICC). Human rights lawyers Omer Shatz and Juan Branco submitted a 700-page dossier on Thursday, naming 122 European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, as co-perpetrators in crimes against humanity involving migrants in the Mediterranean Sea. The filing accuses these leaders of policies that led to the interception, detention, torture, and death of tens of thousands of asylum seekers. The case builds on a 2019 ICC investigation into EU migration practices, which initially did not name specific individuals. The lawyers’ extensive six-year investigation included interviews with over 70 senior European officials and access to confidential documents. They argue that European leaders, alongside Libyan actors, are responsible for the deaths of 25,000 migrants and abuses against 150,000 survivors. The EU has defended its cooperation with Libya, emphasizing efforts to combat human trafficking and protect migrants. However, human rights groups and a recent U.N.-backed investigation have criticized the EU’s support for Libyan forces, citing their role in migrant abuses. The ICC filing marks a significant escalation in holding European leaders accountable for their migration policies.

  • UAE faces 200,000 daily cyberattacks; Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah most targeted

    UAE faces 200,000 daily cyberattacks; Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah most targeted

    The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is under constant siege from cyber threats, facing over 200,000 cyberattacks daily, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah bearing the brunt of nearly 60% of these assaults. Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, head of cybersecurity for the UAE government, revealed these alarming statistics during his presentation at Gitex Global 2025. Dubai leads as the most targeted emirate, accounting for 21% of attacks, followed by Abu Dhabi (19%) and Sharjah (18%). Other emirates like Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain also face significant threats, albeit to a lesser extent. Government entities are the primary targets, absorbing 34.9% of the attacks, while financial firms, energy sectors, and healthcare organizations also face substantial risks. Despite the relentless onslaught, the UAE has demonstrated remarkable resilience, successfully defending both public and private sector organizations. The average duration of a cyberattack in the UAE is significantly shorter than the global average, standing at 18.53 minutes compared to 60 minutes worldwide. However, the financial impact remains severe, with the Middle East experiencing an average data breach cost of $7.92 million in 2024, far exceeding the global average of $4.88 million. Dr. Al Kuwaiti emphasized the evolving nature of cyber threats, warning that they outpace the ability of enterprises to adapt. He highlighted a recent ransomware attack on a private healthcare facility that resulted in the exfiltration of 8 terabytes of data. To combat these challenges, the UAE is fostering a cyber-resilient culture, conducting global cyber drills with over 133 countries, and integrating advanced technologies like AI into its defense strategies. Dr. Al Kuwaiti stressed the importance of anticipating and countering cyber threats to safeguard the economy, national security, and society. Global losses from cyberattacks reached $10.5 trillion in 2024 and are projected to soar to $15.6 trillion by 2029, underscoring the urgency of collective action.

  • Karan Johar shares unseen pictures from ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ set

    Karan Johar shares unseen pictures from ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ set

    Karan Johar, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the iconic Bollywood movie ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,’ recently took a nostalgic trip down memory lane by sharing a series of never-before-seen photos from the film’s set. The 1998 blockbuster, which marked Johar’s directorial debut, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. On Thursday, Johar posted these candid snapshots on his Instagram account, accompanied by the timeless track ‘Tum Paas Aaye,’ further amplifying the emotional connection with his audience. The images feature the film’s legendary cast, including Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Rani Mukerji, Farah Khan, Anupam Kher, and Archana Puran Singh, capturing moments of camaraderie and joy during the filming process. In his heartfelt caption, Johar reflected on the 27-year journey of the film, expressing gratitude for the enduring love it continues to receive. He described the set as a place filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories, thanking fans for their unwavering support. The post quickly garnered immense attention, with fans flooding the comments section to share their personal stories and cherished memories of the film. ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ not only redefined Bollywood romance but also left an indelible mark on pop culture, influencing fashion trends and youth culture of the time. The film earned Johar the prestigious National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, cementing its legacy as a cinematic masterpiece. As fans reminisce about Anjali’s iconic bob cut, SRK’s signature pendant, and the timeless themes of love and friendship, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ remains a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in Indian cinema.

  • How Channing Tatum injured himself while filming a scene in ‘Roofman’

    How Channing Tatum injured himself while filming a scene in ‘Roofman’

    Channing Tatum recently opened up about an on-set injury he sustained while filming a particularly challenging scene in his latest movie, ‘Roofman.’ The actor, who portrays fugitive Jeffrey Manchester, shared the details during an interview, describing the incident as one of the most awkward and physically demanding moments of his career. The scene in question required Tatum to perform a nude sequence, which left him with a permanent scar. According to Deadline, the accident occurred while shooting a chaotic moment where Jeffrey, caught showering in a Toys ‘R’ Us store, attempts to flee. Tatum explained that the scene involved him jumping onto a bike rack and climbing a wall, during which he gashed his leg. Despite the injury, the team quickly patched him up with glue, and filming continued. Tatum also highlighted the awkwardness of filming such a scene, particularly with the camera placement, as he questioned how the director, Derek Cianfrance, planned to shoot it without compromising the scene’s integrity. ‘Roofman,’ which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, also stars Kirsten Dunst as Leigh, a Toys ‘R’ Us employee who forms a connection with Tatum’s character. The film is currently in theaters.

  • Diane Keaton’s family reveals cause of death, expresses gratitude for ‘love and support’

    Diane Keaton’s family reveals cause of death, expresses gratitude for ‘love and support’

    The family of legendary actress Diane Keaton has disclosed that she passed away due to pneumonia on October 11, 2025. In an exclusive statement to People magazine, the Keaton family expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they have received during this difficult time. The Oscar-winning actress, best known for her iconic role in ‘Annie Hall,’ was 79 years old at the time of her death. Born Diane Hall in Los Angeles in 1946, Keaton was the eldest of four children. Her father was a civil engineer, while her mother, a homemaker, nurtured her creative talents. Keaton began her acting journey in school plays and later pursued drama in college before moving to New York to pursue a career in theatre. She adopted her mother’s maiden name, Keaton, as her stage name. Her breakthrough role came in 1972 with ‘The Godfather,’ where she starred alongside Al Pacino. She reprised her role in the film’s sequels and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1977 for her performance in Woody Allen’s ‘Annie Hall.’ Over the years, Keaton became a Hollywood icon, starring in beloved films such as ‘The First Wives Club,’ ‘Father of the Bride,’ ‘Baby Boom,’ and ‘Something’s Gotta Give,’ which earned her another Oscar nomination. The Keaton family also highlighted her passion for supporting the unhoused community and animal shelters, encouraging fans to donate to these causes in her memory. ‘She loved her animals and was steadfast in her support of the unhoused community,’ the family stated. ‘Any donations in her memory to a local food bank or an animal shelter would be a wonderful tribute to her.’ Diane Keaton’s legacy as a versatile and compassionate artist continues to inspire generations of fans and fellow actors.

  • Police fire tear gas at crowds mourning former Kenyan prime minister

    Police fire tear gas at crowds mourning former Kenyan prime minister

    The remains of Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister, were repatriated to his homeland following his passing in India on Wednesday. Odinga, a prominent political figure, was met with an outpouring of grief as thousands of mourners assembled at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to pay their respects. The solemn procession accompanying his body to Kasarani Stadium, however, was marred by chaos when police resorted to firing tear gas to disperse the massive crowd and maintain order. The incident has sparked mixed reactions, with some criticizing the use of force during a period of national mourning, while others acknowledged the challenges of managing such large gatherings. Odinga’s death marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics, as he was a key player in the country’s democratic evolution and a symbol of opposition leadership.

  • Seychelles’ president-elect set to halt tourist development on tiny island

    Seychelles’ president-elect set to halt tourist development on tiny island

    Patrick Herminie, the president-elect of Seychelles, has pledged to suspend the construction of a contentious luxury resort funded by Qatar on Assumption Island, an ecologically sensitive area. In an interview with the BBC, Herminie, who is set to assume office on October 26, criticized the current agreement as ‘unacceptable,’ stating that Seychelles received minimal benefits from the deal. The resort project, managed by the Qatari investment firm Assets Group, includes 40 luxury villas and an upgraded airstrip for executive jets. Environmental activists have raised concerns over the potential ecological damage to Assumption Island, which serves as a gateway to the Aldabra atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique biodiversity. The issue became a focal point during last month’s presidential election, with Herminie defeating incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan in a runoff. Ramkalawan had defended the project, emphasizing the need for foreign investment. Herminie plans to halt the project, engage with investors, and address environmental concerns, ensuring that only existing structures remain.