标签： Africa

The Dubai Metro, inaugurated in 2009, has revolutionized urban transportation in the Emirate, offering millions of residents and visitors a seamless, eco-friendly, and efficient commuting experience. On November 8, 2025, Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared a video showcasing the Metro’s daily operations, emphasizing its role in enhancing the lives of diverse commuters. The video, posted on his official Twitter account, highlighted the Metro’s punctuality, cleanliness, and the respectful behavior of its passengers, which Sheikh Mohammed described as a reflection of the nation’s progress. Testimonials from commuters, including a ticket salesperson and an elderly couple, underscored the Metro’s importance in fostering happiness and inclusivity. Managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Dubai Metro serves an average of 850,000 passengers daily, with ridership surpassing one million during major events. Sheikh Mohammed’s post reinforces the Metro’s significance as a cornerstone of Dubai’s future-ready infrastructure.

At just 17 years old, Rishabh Mittal has already made a significant impact on environmental sustainability through his initiative, Going Green Dubai. Founded when he was only 13, this youth-led project aims to inspire community members to recycle and reduce their environmental footprint, with a particular focus on electronic waste (e-waste). E-waste, which includes discarded electronic devices, is one of the fastest-growing solid waste streams globally, according to the World Health Organisation. Mittal’s journey began with a simple school project on recycling, where he started by collecting plastic bottles in his residential building. However, his passion for technology soon led him to tackle the more complex issue of e-waste, which is notoriously difficult to decompose and often releases harmful toxins into the environment. To amplify his efforts, Mittal partnered with EnviroServe, the region’s largest e-waste processing facility. Together, they have organized school campaigns and set up e-waste bins to safely dispose of unused electronics. The facility recycles everything from mobile phones and laptops to larger appliances like refrigerators and washing machines, breaking them down into raw materials such as copper, aluminium, and steel. Since its inception, Going Green Dubai has collected and recycled 7,109kg of e-waste, 19,960 bottles, and reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 8,951kg. Mittal’s dedication has earned him recognition as a KT+150 achiever, a list that highlights young changemakers making significant impacts across various industries. His story is a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives in driving meaningful environmental change.

Dr. Nouf Hassan Almaeeni, an Emirati woman, has defied extraordinary odds to become the first woman of determination in the UAE to achieve her dream of becoming a medical doctor. Her journey, marked by resilience and determination, was deeply influenced by her father, a nurse, whose compassion and dedication inspired her from a young age. Growing up, Dr. Almaeeni often accompanied her father to his clinic, where she observed his care for patients, sparking her passion for medicine. Her dream took root in those formative years, setting her on a path to a groundbreaking career. Dr. Almaeeni’s journey was not without significant challenges. During her medical studies, she was diagnosed with a rare form of rheumatism, which led to the amputation of her leg and several fingers due to gangrene. Despite these setbacks, she persevered, advocating for her right to continue her education and successfully graduating. Today, she serves as the Business Operation Manager for the radiology vertical at SEHA, where she combines her medical expertise with leadership skills. Dr. Almaeeni credits her faith, the support of her family and friends, and the UAE’s leadership for her success. She is a passionate advocate for people of determination and envisions a future where they are fully included and empowered in all aspects of society. Her message to young Emirati women is one of empowerment and self-belief: ‘Follow your dreams, believe in your capabilities, and enjoy the journey.’

The Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, Kenya, recently hosted its first-ever Poetry Recitation Competition, marking a significant cultural milestone. The event aimed to introduce Kenyan teachers and students to the rich heritage of Chinese poetry, blending classical and modern works. Thirteen finalists, selected from 27 preliminary candidates, represented prestigious institutions such as the United States International University, Discovery Chinese Cultural Training Center, and Kenyatta University. The competition showcased a diverse array of poetic expressions, highlighting the universal appeal of language and literature. Leonard Chacha, Director of the Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University, emphasized that the event transcended mere competition, serving as a testament to the enduring power of poetry in fostering connection and inspiration in a noisy world. The initiative underscores the Confucius Institute’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding between China and Kenya.

In a significant move to bolster cultural and intellectual growth, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has allocated Dh4.5 million to public libraries. This funding is designated for the acquisition of the latest titles from publishers participating in the 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF). The fair, themed ‘Between You and a Book,’ is a global cultural phenomenon, featuring 2,350 publishers and exhibitors from 118 countries, including 1,224 Arab and 1,126 international publishing houses. Over 250 writers, artists, and thinkers from 66 nations are set to present more than 1,200 cultural, intellectual, and artistic events. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, emphasized the Ruler’s vision of libraries as transformative institutions that bridge cultures and civilizations. This initiative underscores Sharjah’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based society and ensuring access to cutting-edge works for readers, researchers, and students across the UAE.