Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Queen Camilla describes being assaulted by man as a teenager

    Queen Camilla describes being assaulted by man as a teenager

    In a deeply personal disclosure during a BBC interview addressing violence against women, Queen Camilla has broken her decades-long silence about surviving a physical assault during her teenage years. The 78-year-old royal recounted the traumatic incident that occurred aboard a train, marking the first time she has publicly confirmed the attack previously detailed in a September serialization of a royal biography in The Times.

    Reflecting on the harrowing experience, Her Majesty revealed: ‘I remember at the time being so angry. I was reading my book and you know this boy – man – attacked me, and I did fight back.’ The Queen emphasized the lasting emotional impact of the assault, noting how the memory ‘lurked for many years’ following the incident.

    The conversation emerged during a broader discussion about gender-based violence, a cause the Queen has championed through various charitable endeavors and advocacy work spanning many years. While Buckingham Palace had previously remained silent on the matter, Camilla’s decision to share her experience adds significant weight to ongoing national conversations about women’s safety and trauma recovery.

    According to the biographical account published earlier this year, the assault occurred when Camilla was approximately 16 or 17 years old aboard a train destined for London’s Paddington Station. The narrative described her courageous response—using her shoe to strike the assailant in self-defense—and subsequent identification of the attacker to railway officials, leading to his apprehension. Although the Queen did not explicitly confirm these specific details during her interview, her acknowledgment of the core incident validates the essential facts.

    The Queen’s disclosure comes at a time of increased scrutiny regarding violence against women in the United Kingdom, with her personal testimony offering both solidarity to survivors and highlighting the pervasive nature of such experiences across all segments of society. As the second wife of King Charles III, who ascended to the throne in 2022, Camilla has increasingly used her platform to advocate for vulnerable populations, particularly those affected by domestic and sexual violence.

  • Pepsi and Pakistan Cricket Board partner to promote girls’ cricket

    Pepsi and Pakistan Cricket Board partner to promote girls’ cricket

    In a significant move to advance gender equality in sports, PepsiCo has joined forces with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to launch an innovative program addressing critical barriers facing aspiring female cricketers. The collaboration introduces ‘Ab Hai Tumhari Bari’ (It’s Your Turn Now), a transformative initiative that reimagines sports accessibility through creatively repurposed advertising infrastructure.

    The partnership emerges against a backdrop of growing interest in women’s cricket across South Asia and the Gulf region, where participation has traditionally been hampered by equipment shortages and gender-specific design limitations. Female players frequently resort to borrowing ill-fitting gear from male relatives, resulting in discomfort, diminished confidence, and compromised performance due to equipment typically engineered for male physiques.

    Pepsi’s pioneering solution converts conventional billboards into functional ‘Playboards’ stocked with professionally designed cricket equipment tailored specifically for female athletes. Strategically installed at schools and community cricket grounds throughout Pakistan, these accessible stations provide complimentary access to bats, balls, stumps, and protective gear without requiring registration or payment. The borrow-and-return model ensures sustainable community sharing while eliminating financial barriers.

    Hakima Mirza, Senior Marketing Director at PepsiCo Pakistan, emphasized the program’s immediacy: ‘Cricket permeates daily life, but access hasn’t mirrored enthusiasm. Our mission enables young women to engage now rather than postponing their dreams.’

    Complementing the Playboards, the program distributes custom-fitted cricket kits to emerging women’s teams, facilitating proper training and skill development from foundational levels. Rafia Haider, PCB’s Head of Women’s Cricket, noted the performance correlation: ‘Appropriately sized equipment extends training duration and boosts confidence—access ignites development.’

    The initiative presents a replicable model for sports advocacy worldwide, particularly in markets like the UAE where similar participation challenges persist despite growing institutional support. By transforming advertising spaces into community resources, the project demonstrates how corporate-sports partnerships can structurally advance inclusion beyond symbolic gestures.

  • ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ second teaser features Thor preparing for ‘last battle’

    ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ second teaser features Thor preparing for ‘last battle’

    Marvel Studios has released its second highly anticipated teaser for ‘Avengers: Doomsday,’ showcasing Chris Hemsworth’s Thor in a deeply personal moment of preparation for what appears to be the character’s final monumental conflict. The teaser debuted exactly one week after the first preview featuring Chris Evans’ Captain America revelation during ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ screenings.

    The newly unveiled footage presents Thor in a serene forest setting, engaged in solemn prayer to his deceased father Odin, seeking divine strength to protect his adopted daughter Love. This emotional sequence marks a significant character development first introduced in 2022’s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’ The teaser offers a brief glimpse of Love, portrayed by Hemsworth’s real-life daughter India Rose Hemsworth, whose character originates as the child of villain Gorr the God Butcher (Christian Bale).

    Scheduled for December 18, 2026 release, ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ assembles an unprecedented ensemble cast from across the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Hemsworth will join forces with returning veterans including Chris Evans’ Captain America, Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Paul Rudd, Tom Hiddleston, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, and Simu Liu against the formidable antagonist Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr.

    The film represents Marvel’s most ambitious crossover event, integrating characters from multiple franchises including the newly cast ‘Fantastic Four’ stars Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Additionally, the production will incorporate ‘Thunderbolts’ ensemble members Florence Pugh, David Harbour, Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen, and Lewis Pullman.

    In a groundbreaking cinematic unification, ‘Doomsday’ will also feature legendary actors from Fox’s X-Men universe, including Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Kelsey Grammer, Alan Cumming, James Marsden, Channing Tatum, and Rebecca Romijn, creating the most extensive superhero ensemble in film history.

  • Equatorial Guinea pair banned for abusing referee at Afcon

    Equatorial Guinea pair banned for abusing referee at Afcon

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has handed down significant disciplinary sanctions following controversial incidents during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Equatorial Guinea’s captain Carlos Akapo and teammate Josete Miranda have each received four-match suspensions for verbally abusing match officials after their team’s 1-0 defeat to Sudan in Group E.

    The disciplinary measures stem from a CAF panel’s review of referee Messie Jessie Nkounkou Mvoutou’s report detailing the post-match confrontation. The Congolese official documented that both players “repeatedly uttered insulting and obscene remarks” toward him and his assistant referees immediately following the final whistle. The incident occurred in a context of “intense anger related to the defeat” but was deemed a “serious breach of the principles of respect and fair play.”

    In a partial reprieve, two matches of each player’s suspension have been deferred for one year, meaning they will serve immediate two-match bans. Both athletes already missed Equatorial Guinea’s final group match against Algeria, which ended in a 3-1 defeat that eliminated the National Thunder from the tournament.

    Additionally, the Equatorial Guinea Football Federation (Feguifut) has been fined $10,000 for the conduct of its technical staff and players, who engaged in “excessive and abusive protests” against officiating decisions. According to Mvoutou’s report, team behavior progressively deteriorated after defender Saul Coco scored an own goal in the 74th minute.

    In separate disciplinary action, Burkina Faso captain Bertrand Traoré has been fined $10,000 for making “offensive remarks” during a post-match interview following his team’s 1-0 loss to Angola in Group E. These sanctions highlight CAF’s strengthened commitment to enforcing disciplinary standards during Africa’s premier football competition.

  • Mali and Burkina Faso impose travel ban on US citizens in tit-for-tat move

    Mali and Burkina Faso impose travel ban on US citizens in tit-for-tat move

    In a significant diplomatic escalation, the military governments of Mali and Burkina Faso have formally announced reciprocal entry prohibitions targeting United States citizens. This decisive action comes as a direct response to the Trump administration’s recent expansion of travel restrictions against both West African nations.

    The reciprocal measures were confirmed through separate official statements issued by both governments. Burkina Faso’s Foreign Affairs Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré explicitly cited the “principle of reciprocity” as the foundation for their decision, while Mali’s foreign ministry emphasized the necessity of “mutual respect and sovereign equality” in international relations. Malian officials additionally expressed disappointment that Washington’s original travel ban decision was implemented without prior diplomatic consultation.

    This development follows neighboring Niger’s implementation of similar restrictions against US travelers earlier this week. All three nations currently operate under military junta leadership following recent coups, and have subsequently formed their own regional alliance while strengthening political and military ties with Russia amid deteriorating relations with traditional Western partners.

    The White House’s original policy expansion, announced earlier this month, imposed comprehensive entry restrictions on nationals from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, alongside South Sudan, Syria, and Palestinian Authority passport holders. Scheduled to take effect January 1st, these measures were justified as necessary for enhancing US national security. The administration simultaneously elevated Laos and Sierra Leone from partial to full restrictions, while implementing limited travel constraints on fifteen additional countries including Nigeria, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.

    This exchange of travel restrictions marks a notable deterioration in US-West African relations and reflects the growing geopolitical realignment occurring within the Sahel region.

  • Mali and Burkina Faso impose retaliatory travel ban on US nationals

    Mali and Burkina Faso impose retaliatory travel ban on US nationals

    BAMAKO, Mali — In a significant diplomatic escalation, the military governments of Mali and Burkina Faso have instituted immediate entry bans targeting United States citizens. This decisive action comes as a direct response to the Trump administration’s recent expansion of travel restrictions affecting citizens from both West African nations.

    The reciprocal measures were formally announced through separate declarations issued by the foreign ministries of both countries late Tuesday. Mali’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation stated it would ‘apply the same conditions and requirements to US nationals as those imposed on Malian citizens’ based on the principle of reciprocity. Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré similarly endorsed parallel restrictions citing identical justification.

    This development represents the latest deterioration in relations between the United States and West African nations currently governed by military juntas. The tension stems from President Trump’s December 16th executive order that extended existing travel limitations to encompass twenty additional countries, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and neighboring Niger.

    These three nations, all currently under military rule following coups that overthrew civilian governments, have recently formed a breakaway alliance distinct from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) regional bloc. The White House had previously cited persistent security challenges and armed group activities as primary motivations for implementing the original travel restrictions.

    Both Mali and Burkina Faso have faced significant struggles containing violent extremist organizations that have rapidly expanded their operational territories across the region. The current military administrations originally seized power promising enhanced security measures against these armed factions, though instability continues to affect large portions of the region.

  • Eurostar to resume services after Channel tunnel power glitch; passengers warned

    Eurostar to resume services after Channel tunnel power glitch; passengers warned

    Eurostar services are gradually recommencing after a significant power supply malfunction within the Channel Tunnel caused widespread cancellations on December 30, 2025, during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The technical fault, compounded by a separate failed LeShuttle freight train within the tunnel, led to the suspension of all cross-channel routes connecting London with Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam.

    The operator confirmed a partial reopening of the tunnel mid-afternoon, with the first services resuming around 4:00 PM GMT. However, Eurostar issued a strong advisory for passengers to postpone non-essential travel due to the persistent overhead power issue, warning that all resumed services would be subject to severe delays and potential last-minute cancellations. The disruption even affected some continental routes not utilizing the tunnel, such as Paris-Brussels services.

    The incident created chaos at major terminals, including London’s St. Pancras and Paris’s Gare du Nord, where crowds of stranded travelers scrambled to find alternative arrangements. Passengers shared their frustrations with AFP correspondents, with many expressing disappointment over ruined New Year’s Eve plans. While some adopted a philosophical attitude toward the disruption, others desperately sought alternative transportation options, including flights and ferries, despite limited availability during the peak holiday season.

    This incident represents the latest in a series of operational challenges for Eurostar, which transported a record 19.5 million passengers in 2024. The monopoly holder of Channel Tunnel passenger services since 1994 now faces emerging competition from Richard Branson’s venture and Trenitalia’s planned Paris-London service by 2029. Previous disruptions include an electrical fault in August 2025 and cable theft in northern France that caused June service interruptions.

  • NYE 2026 in UAE: Ajman announces 4 spots for fireworks

    NYE 2026 in UAE: Ajman announces 4 spots for fireworks

    The United Arab Emirates continues its tradition of hosting world-class New Year’s Eve celebrations, with Ajman announcing four distinct locations for spectacular fireworks displays to welcome 2026. The emirate has curated diverse experiences across its territory, offering residents and visitors multiple options to witness the sky burst into color at midnight.

    Ajman Corniche, the prominent waterfront promenade overlooking the Arabian Gulf, will serve as a primary celebration hub. Known for hosting social events, this family-friendly location will feature fireworks opposite the Ajman Saray Hotel, combining coastal views with pyrotechnic brilliance.

    The Al Jarf area will transform into a vibrant celebratory venue, with fireworks displays opposite both Ajman Boulevard and Festival Land. This urban setting provides convenient access for those seeking a metropolitan celebration atmosphere.

    For those preferring a mountainous escape, the Al Manama area offers a unique alternative. Located approximately one hour from the city center at the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, this serene location features historic fortresses and tranquil natural surroundings for a peaceful transition into the new year.

    Masfout, recently designated ‘Best Tourist Village in the World’ by the United Nations Tourism Organisation, presents a picturesque rural celebration. The fireworks will illuminate the agricultural lands and farms at Swyir Park, coinciding with the ongoing Nasamat Masfout Festival, blending traditional activities with celebratory displays.

    Beyond the pyrotechnic spectacles, Ajman’s Media Office encourages visitors to experience additional New Year events, including the Ajman Food Festival at the Heritage District. This historic area, home to Ajman Museum and the Old Saleh Souk, provides cultural depth to the celebratory offerings.

    The UAE maintains its reputation for record-breaking New Year’s Eve productions, with 2026 expected to continue this tradition of excellence through coordinated celebrations across all emirates.

  • UAE weather tomorrow: Strong winds to cause blowing dust, reduce visibility

    UAE weather tomorrow: Strong winds to cause blowing dust, reduce visibility

    The United Arab Emirates is set to experience significant weather disruptions on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, with meteorological authorities issuing alerts for strong winds and reduced visibility across the region. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), conditions will range from fair to partly cloudy, with low cloud formations anticipated over islands and certain coastal and northern areas.

    The NCM has specifically warned residents about strong winds that will likely cause blowing dust and sand throughout the day. These conditions are expected to substantially reduce horizontal visibility, creating potential hazards for motorists and outdoor activities. The meteorological department had previously issued alerts regarding very rough sea conditions, advising extreme caution for those near coastal areas.

    Temperatures are forecast to drop noticeably, with internal regions potentially experiencing lows of approximately 10°C. Major urban centers will see varied conditions: Abu Dhabi may reach a high of 23°C, while Dubai and Sharjah are expected to see maximum temperatures of 24°C. Minimum temperatures in the emirates will range between 19°C and 21°C.

    Weather patterns are predicted to shift toward increased humidity during nighttime and into Thursday morning, particularly in internal areas where mist formation is possible. Marine conditions will remain challenging, with the Arabian Gulf experiencing rough to very rough seas and the Oman Sea showing rough to moderate conditions.

    Residents are advised to monitor ongoing weather updates and exercise appropriate precautions, especially during travel and outdoor activities. The combination of reduced visibility due to dust and changing temperature conditions requires heightened awareness throughout the day.

  • Saving South Africa’s threatened albatross from lethal fishing lines

    Saving South Africa’s threatened albatross from lethal fishing lines

    In the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 27 nautical miles from South Africa’s Cape Point, a specialized tour vessel operated by Cape Town Pelagics navigates toward fishing trawlers. This unconventional destination provides birdwatchers with rare sightings of endangered seabirds, including the majestic black-browed albatross, which congregate around fishing operations in astonishing numbers.

    The birds have developed an opportunistic relationship with commercial fishing vessels, trailing behind them to feast on discarded fish heads and guts thrown overboard during catch processing. While this behavior provides immediate sustenance, it places these magnificent seabirds in grave danger through accidental bycatch—a critical threat driving several albatross species toward extinction.

    British conservationist Tim Appleton explains the deadly mechanics: ‘They get caught on what they call long lines—commercial fishing lines that can extend 100 kilometers with 4,000 baited hooks. Birds attempting to snatch the bait become hooked, dragged underwater, and drowned.’ Additionally, birds become entangled in cable lines pulling nets toward vessels.

    Andrea Angel of BirdLife South Africa’s Albatross Task Force reveals the alarming statistics: ‘Of the 22 global albatross species, 15 face direct threat from fishing activities. These birds spend most of their lives at sea, exclusively feeding on squid and fish, making fishing vessel encounters inevitable.’ Their reproductive biology exacerbates the crisis—albatrosses mate for life, produce a single egg biennially, and both parents must participate in chick-rearing. The loss of one parent guarantees the chick’s death and disrupts the breeding cycle for years.

    An innovative solution has emerged through bird scaring lines—essentially nautical scarecrows featuring colorful plastic streamers that flutter above fishing gear, deterring birds from dangerous proximity. BirdLife South Africa has partnered with the Ocean View Association for Persons with Disabilities, training members to manufacture these life-saving devices.

    Deborah Gonsalves, manager of the association, notes the profound impact: ‘This collaboration enables our members to maintain productivity and self-worth while supplementing disability grants.’ The program represents a rare convergence of conservation, social empowerment, and economic incentive.

    Fisheries themselves benefit economically from implementing these measures, as Andrea Angel explains: ‘Fishermen would rather catch a $10,000 tuna than a worthless bird.’ Since the Albatross Task Force’s establishment in 2004, southern African fisheries have achieved a remarkable 90% reduction in seabird bycatch—a conservation success story offering hope for global replication.