Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • EV trends to expect in 2026: The year electric mobility truly matures

    EV trends to expect in 2026: The year electric mobility truly matures

    The global automotive landscape is undergoing a radical transformation as electric vehicles transition from niche innovation to mainstream transportation. Projections indicate electric mobility will capture 26.7% of the global market share in 2026, accelerating to 42% by 2030 and eventually reaching 83% dominance by 2040 according to Auto Vista data.

    This evolution is being fueled by five critical developments that will define the 2026 EV ecosystem. First, emerging markets including the Middle East and Africa are experiencing accelerated adoption as financing options expand and cost-effective models enter these regions. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing EV markets, with sales penetration doubling from 2% to 4% in 2024. Remarkably, 91% of current battery-electric vehicle owners in the GCC would consider another EV for their next purchase.

    Second, charging infrastructure—historically a significant barrier—is undergoing revolutionary improvements. Ultra-fast charging hubs are proliferating across urban centers and intercity routes, while interoperable networks are eliminating the need for multiple apps and payment systems. User satisfaction rates have reached unprecedented levels: 95% in the UAE, 94% in Saudi Arabia, and 97% in Qatar.

    Third, artificial intelligence is fundamentally enhancing the ownership experience. AI-powered systems now optimize routing, automate charging schedules, perform predictive maintenance, and adjust energy consumption in real-time based on driving patterns and environmental conditions.

    Fourth, vehicle design is evolving beyond traditional automotive architecture. Manufacturers are creating sleek exteriors with minimalist, multi-functional interiors that function as mobile living spaces rather than conventional transportation cabins.

    Finally, automakers are increasingly engineering vehicles for extreme weather conditions. The 2026 model year will feature heat-pump HVAC systems, enhanced insulation, and advanced battery chemistries specifically optimized for performance in temperature extremes, ensuring consistent range reliability regardless of climate.

  • ‘Crazy’ reaction after vet Munyua upsets De Decker

    ‘Crazy’ reaction after vet Munyua upsets De Decker

    In an extraordinary display of resilience at Alexandra Palace, Kenyan veterinarian David Munyua authored one of the most remarkable stories in recent darting history by overcoming a two-set deficit to defeat former World Grand Prix champion Mike de Decker. The 30-year-old large animal vet, competing in his first professional tournament outside Africa, achieved a stunning 3-2 victory that sent shockwaves through the sport.

    The World Championship debutant appeared destined for elimination after dropping the opening two sets, including squandering opportunities in the second set. However, Munyua demonstrated remarkable composure under pressure, claiming the subsequent two sets in deciding legs to force a dramatic finale. After being broken in the opening leg of the fifth set, the Kenyan qualifier produced a spectacular 135 checkout that propelled him to complete one of the tournament’s greatest comebacks.

    Munyua revealed the overwhelming response from his homeland, stating: ‘It’s going crazy back in my country – everybody is like ‘we did it’. Earlier today, most people were asking ‘this is the day now, are you ready?” The part-time athlete emphasized darts’ accessibility: ‘Darts is a simple game. You don’t need acres of land to play – you only need a room with a board and the darts.’

    The match featured an unusual interruption when the notorious ‘Ally Pally’ wasp landed on Munyua’s face during play. Demonstrating characteristic composure, the veterinarian attempted to capture the insect in his pocket rather than eliminate it. ‘I tried to put it in my pocket to stay with me because I love going through tough things,’ he explained. ‘I’ve seen how it’s been interfering with other players. You need maximum concentration, so when you have a little disturbance, you need to get over it.’

    Munyua balances his sporting ambitions with his veterinary practice, noting: ‘Being a veterinarian in my country and also a darts player, there are so many challenges you need to face to combine both. During the day, I’m dealing with my animals, but at night, I’m playing darts. I’m on call a lot of the time, so I can be throwing darts and then get a call.’

    The victorious Kenyan now progresses to face either Dutchman Kevin Doets or England’s Matthew Dennant in the second round. Meanwhile, despite acknowledging Munyua’s performance, De Decker expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of the Alexandra Palace crowd, criticizing their booing and whistling during the match on social media platforms.

  • Can Salah finally lift Afcon trophy as Morocco eye home glory?

    Can Salah finally lift Afcon trophy as Morocco eye home glory?

    The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) commences this Sunday in Morocco, shifting focus from pre-tournament controversies to the highly anticipated action on the pitch. This mid-season tournament brings together Africa’s finest football talent, with host nation Morocco positioned as favorites following their record-breaking streak of 18 consecutive international victories and their historic semi-final appearance in the 2022 World Cup.

    Morocco’s quest for only their second AFCON title since 1976 faces significant challenges despite home advantage. The team must manage immense pressure from expectant fans who sold out tickets within hours, while key captain Achraf Hakimi races against time to achieve fitness. Moroccan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat emphasized the importance of fan support, stating: “In Africa the most important [thing] is that you play with your heart. The fans can push us a lot.”

    The tournament features several compelling storylines beyond the hosts. Egypt’s Mohamed Salah seeks to secure his first AFCON trophy in his fifth attempt, potentially capping his international career amid ongoing speculation about his club future with Liverpool. Defending champions Ivory Coast aim to replicate their remarkable 2024 home success, while Senegal looks to build on their impressive victory against England in June.

    Organizational challenges have shadowed the buildup to the tournament. The Confederation of African Football’s scheduling conflict with FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup forced a last-minute change to player release rules, requiring European clubs to release players just seven days before the tournament instead of the standard fourteen. This decision drew sharp criticism from several coaches, with Mali’s Tom Saintfiet calling it “catastrophic” and Comoros coach Stefano Cusin expressing frustration over disrupted preparations.

    Despite these challenges, the tournament promises the unpredictability that has characterized recent editions, with seven different winners emerging from the past eight competitions. Cameroon enters the tournament amid internal turmoil after federation president Samuel Eto’o dismissed coach Marc Brys and omitted key players including goalkeeper Andre Onana and striker Vincent Aboubakar. Meanwhile, Algeria features Mohamed Amoura, the top scorer in African World Cup qualifiers, while Nigeria aims to improve upon their 2023 finals performance.

    The tournament also highlights inspiring stories of perseverance, with Sudan remarkably qualifying despite playing all matches away from home due to the country’s ongoing civil war. Botswana, Mozambique, and Tanzania all seek their first-ever AFCON victories and progression beyond the group stage.

    With twelve former champions in the field and the trophy described as the “holy grail of African football” by Benin assistant coach Tunde Adelakun, Morocco 2025 promises to deliver compelling football drama amidst the backdrop of organizational challenges and high expectations.

  • Dubai announces New Year holiday for public sector employees, clarifies exemptions

    Dubai announces New Year holiday for public sector employees, clarifies exemptions

    The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) has officially declared January 1, 2026, as a public holiday for government employees, with a structured approach to maintain operational continuity. This announcement follows the earlier decision by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) extending similar benefits to private sector workers.

    In a strategic move balancing employee welfare with public service demands, the DGHR circular specifies that January 2, 2026, will function as a remote working day for positions capable of operating outside traditional office environments. This dual approach ensures both celebration and continuity across government services.

    Critical exemptions apply to shift-based operations and public facility management sectors. These essential services retain authority to determine appropriate staffing levels and schedules during the holiday period. The flexibility allows organizations responsible for public facilities and continuous services to maintain uninterrupted operations while complying with broader holiday provisions.

    The DGHR extended formal greetings to UAE leadership, government entities, and residents, expressing wishes for a prosperous new year marked by significant achievements and continued success. This holiday framework demonstrates Dubai’s progressive approach to workforce management, blending traditional celebration with modern flexible work arrangements that address both employee needs and public service requirements.

  • Kenya’s environment court to consider a claim that a lux safari camp was harming wildebeests routes

    Kenya’s environment court to consider a claim that a lux safari camp was harming wildebeests routes

    A Kenyan environmental court has determined it will continue hearing a controversial case against a high-end safari camp in the Maasai Mara reserve, despite the plaintiff’s attempt to withdraw the lawsuit. The legal challenge centers on allegations that the Ritz-Carlton Maasai Mara Camp, operated by Marriott International, disrupts the annual wildebeest migration corridor—a natural phenomenon that attracts global tourism to the region.

    Environment and Land Court Judge Lucy Gacheru dismissed conservationist Joel Meitamei Olol Dapash’s withdrawal motion filed Wednesday, wherein he stated his concerns had been addressed through consultations. The court asserted its judicial discretion to continue cases involving significant public interest, particularly those raising serious environmental impact questions.

    The case, initially filed in August following both local and international criticism, alleges the camp’s positioning obstructs the wildebeest migration path. Developer Lazizi Mara Limited opposed the withdrawal, arguing they had complied with all regulatory requirements yet faced negative portrayal, and requested a fair judicial hearing to clear their reputation.

    The luxury camp, charging up to $3,500 per night, stands among several premium tourist destinations in the Maasai Mara National Reserve that offer close wildlife encounters during the migration to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. The court has scheduled further proceedings for February 10 to determine case progression.

  • Kenyan debutant Munyua shocks De Decker at Worlds

    Kenyan debutant Munyua shocks De Decker at Worlds

    In a spectacular display of resilience at Alexandra Palace, Kenyan debutant David Munyua delivered one of the most dramatic upsets in recent PDC World Darts Championship history. The 30-year-old veterinarian from Kenya mounted an extraordinary comeback from a two-set deficit to defeat world number 18 Mike de Decker of Belgium in Thursday’s afternoon session.

    The match appeared destined for conventional conclusion when De Decker stood one set from victory, but Munyua’s perseverance transformed the contest into an instant classic. After missing crucial opportunities in the second set and eventually securing the third, the African qualifier demonstrated remarkable composure under pressure. The deciding fifth set featured an astonishing 135 finish achieved through outer bull, treble 20, and bullseye combination—a spectacular checkout that leveled the match before Munyua completed his historic victory.

    Munyua, who qualified through the African Darts Group Qualifier, described his triumph as “amazing” during his emotional on-stage interview, emphasizing that the moment represented a significant breakthrough “for the sport, for Africa, and for Kenya.”

    The upset was particularly striking given De Decker’s credentials as the 2024 World Grand Prix champion, though it extended his disappointing record at Alexandra Palace where he has yet to progress beyond the last 64 in six appearances.

    Earlier in the session, Japanese debutant Motomu Sakai captivated the audience with a straight-sets victory over France’s Thibault Tricole. Sakai’s exuberant entrance and engaging showmanship quickly won over the London crowd.

    Additional afternoon results saw England’s Ryan Joyce deliver a polished performance against compatriot Owen Bates, averaging 95.27 and converting nine of fourteen double attempts. Callan Rydz (world number 42) dominated Hungary’s Patrik Kovacs with a comprehensive 3-0 victory, dropping just three legs throughout their match.

    The evening session promised further excitement with matches featuring Fallon Sherrock—the first woman to win a PDC World Championship match—against 2021 semi-finalist Dave Chisnall, and three-time champion Michael van Gerwen beginning his campaign against Japan’s Mitsuhiko Tatsunami.

  • England’s Ashes hopes go up in smoke as Australia press for victory

    England’s Ashes hopes go up in smoke as Australia press for victory

    Australia moved decisively closer to retaining cricket’s coveted Ashes urn after dismantling England’s batting lineup on a scorching day at Adelaide Oval. The hosts need only a draw in the current Test to secure the series, having established a commanding 2-0 lead earlier.

  • Tiger Properties launches “Tiger Downtown Ajman” with $10 billion investment

    Tiger Properties launches “Tiger Downtown Ajman” with $10 billion investment

    In a landmark move for UAE real estate, Tiger Properties has announced the launch of Tiger Downtown Ajman, a transformative $10 billion mixed-use development in the Al Aaliya area. This ambitious project marks the developer’s strategic expansion into Ajman following its established successes in Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.

    Encompassing a vast 4.27 million square meters, the master-planned community is conceived as a fully integrated waterfront city featuring contemporary architectural designs. The residential portfolio will include comprehensively furnished studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, duplexes, and luxury penthouses, all designed to offer spacious living with panoramic views.

    The development’s centerpiece will be an intricate lagoon system weaving throughout the property, creating a unique aquatic living environment. Residents will have access to an extensive suite of over 25 premium amenities, including a multi-purpose dome, waterfront restaurants, an elevated walkway, an interactive plaza, sports courts, an amphitheater, landscaped gardens, and signature art installations. Luxury wellness facilities will feature a jacuzzi, sauna, massage room, and cold plunge pool.

    The inaugural phase will introduce Orchid Towers 1 and 2, with units available to all nationalities through flexible payment plans extending up to five years. CEO Engineer Amer Waleed Al Zaabi emphasized the project’s response to growing ownership and investment demand, citing its prime location, modern amenities, and competitive pricing as key differentiators.

    Construction is projected to span three years, with unit handovers anticipated for the fourth quarter of 2028. Al Zaabi expressed strong confidence in both the resilience of the UAE real estate market and Ajman’s capacity to sustain growing market demand, reinforcing the company’s commitment to elevating residential experiences and meeting client aspirations through quality execution and innovative design.

  • Sudanese paramilitary group RSF killed more than 1,000 civilians in Zamzam camp in April, UN says

    Sudanese paramilitary group RSF killed more than 1,000 civilians in Zamzam camp in April, UN says

    A comprehensive United Nations human rights investigation has revealed horrific atrocities committed during a three-day assault on Zamzam displacement camp in western Sudan earlier this year. The report, released Thursday by the UN Human Rights Office, documents systematic violations by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group that resulted in the deaths of more than 1,000 civilians during their April offensive.

    The attack formed part of the RSF’s broader siege strategy against el-Fasher, the provincial capital of North Darfur. According to the UN findings, hundreds of victims were summarily executed through methodical house-to-house raids, with additional massacres occurring at the main market, educational institutions, and medical facilities. The report further details patterns of sexual violence encompassing rape, gang rape, and sexual slavery practices.

    UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk characterized these actions as “a consistent pattern of serious violations of international humanitarian law and gross abuses of international human rights law.” The findings emerge weeks after Amnesty International independently accused the RSF of committing war crimes during the same operation.

    Zamzam camp, established in 2004 to accommodate those displaced by Janjaweed militia attacks, had swelled to become Sudan’s largest displacement settlement with over 500,000 residents prior to the assault. The UN report notes that the RSF had systematically blocked food and essential supplies from reaching the camp for months preceding the violence.

    The broader conflict between the RSF and Sudanese military, ongoing since April 2023, has created the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis according to international observers. The war has claimed approximately 40,000 lives—though rights organizations suggest significantly higher casualties—while displacing over 14 million people. Famine conditions have emerged across multiple regions, including Zamzam camp.

    Türk warned that the documented patterns of violence are now being replicated in el-Fasher following the RSF’s takeover of the city in late October. “These horrific patterns of violations—committed with impunity—are consistent with what my office has repeatedly documented,” he stated.

    Diplomatic efforts to address the crisis intensified as Sudan’s top general met with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi in Cairo. This followed discussions between Sudanese officials and Saudi authorities in Riyadh, where US envoy Massad Boulos concurrently engaged with Saudi officials. Boulos subsequently announced on social media platform X that practical steps had been agreed upon “toward a humanitarian truce, durable stability, and expanded humanitarian access.”

    The Quad mediation group—comprising the United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates—faces challenges in negotiations. Sudanese military leadership had previously rejected a November ceasefire proposal as “unacceptable and the worst yet,” while accusing mediators of bias. Egypt’s presidency subsequently affirmed its support for Sudan’s territorial integrity, explicitly rejecting “the establishment of any parallel entities or their recognition” in reference to the RSF’s announced parallel government in July.

  • UAE woman confirms Dubai Police’s ‘swift action’ after beach indecency report

    UAE woman confirms Dubai Police’s ‘swift action’ after beach indecency report

    A recent incident at a Dubai beach has ignited crucial conversations about cultural sensitivity and public behavior norms in the United Arab Emirates. On December 8th, Emirati citizen Amna Al Haddad witnessed a man publicly undressing in a beach parking lot, an act that directly contravenes the nation’s strict public decency laws.

    The 35-year-old national documented her experience on Instagram, expressing feelings of shock and violation while emphasizing how such behavior conflicts with local cultural values. Her post rapidly gained traction among residents and expatriates alike, highlighting broader concerns about maintaining appropriate conduct in shared public spaces.

    Dubai Police demonstrated prompt responsiveness to the complaint, with Al Haddad confirming on December 11th that authorities were actively investigating the matter. She publicly commended the police force’s professional handling of the situation while reminding community members about the availability of the Police Eye feature on the Dubai Police app for reporting concerning behaviors.

    Beyond addressing the specific incident, Al Haddad advocated for proactive educational initiatives, suggesting that awareness campaigns in airports, beaches, shopping malls, and other family-oriented environments could foster greater cultural understanding. Her perspective resonated with Dubai’s diverse community, including British expatriate Hannah George, who reinforced the importance of adapting attire when transitioning from beach areas to public spaces like cafés and walking paths.

    The UAE maintains clear guidelines regarding public decorum, requiring modest clothing in general public areas while permitting appropriate swimwear within designated beach zones. The regulations explicitly prohibit nudity and topless sunbathing nationwide, with violations subject to legal intervention. These standards reflect the country’s commitment to preserving family-friendly environments and upholding traditional values of respect and modesty in public settings.