Author name: fatih

23 abductees rescued from ADF rebels in eastern Congo

Africa /

Congolese and Ugandan troops rescued 23 women and minors who were abducted by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels, during a joint military operation in eastern Congo, according to the military. The rescue followed fighting with the rebels near the Malibongo River in northern Tokomeka in the eastern province of Ituri, Bilal Katamba, spokesperson for Uganda’s military Mountain Division, said in a statement. The abductees were taken to the Uganda army’s tactical headquarters in Luna, Ituri Province, he said. Among the minors were three infants under the age of 1, who are severely malnourished. “A joint medical team is providing emergency care to save their lives. The mothers are also receiving basic medical treatment in the field,” said Katamba. Congolese and Ugandan forces launched a joint military offensive in 2021 to flush out the ADF, which was founded in the 1990s by several opposition movements in Uganda to topple the government of President Yoweri Museveni. The group pledged allegiance to the Daesh/ISIS terror group in 2019.

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French company reports major losses due to challenges in Niger

Business /

The French nuclear fuel specialist reported a loss of 133 million euros for the first half of the year, a sharp decline from the 117 million euros net profit in Q1 2023. The company’s difficulties this year include Niger’s decision in June to revoke its rights to the Imouraren mine, the world’s largest with estimated reserves of 200,000 tons. Additionally, its subsidiary Somair, which is 63% owned by Orano, is facing issues exporting uranium from its Arlit operations in northern Niger due to an export ban imposed by the military government in Niamey. As a result, the company had to sell its uranium production, which was initially intended to finance the site’s closure.

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Armed attack in South Africa kills 8

Africa /

In an armed attack on an entertainment venue in South Africa’s North West province, 8 people have been killed. Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, North West Province Police Spokesperson, reported that 8 individuals, including one woman, were killed in the attack on the drinking establishment near the town of Orkney. Mokgwabone explained that the attackers, who were looking for members of the local Basotho community, fired randomly at the venue. Seven victims died at the scene, while one succumbed to injuries at the hospital. The attackers stole money from the venue’s cash register, as well as the security camera system and a pool table. Mokgwabone also noted that they took customers’ cell phones before fleeing. He called for witnesses to assist in identifying and locating the suspects, whose identities and numbers remain unknown.

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Activists urge action to address global food crisis

Discover /

Activists and chefs worldwide joined a new campaign on Thursday (July 25) to spotlight the global food crisis. In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where G20 leaders were meeting for a two-day summit, campaigners staged a demonstration. Members of various NGOs distributed empty plates from a mock food truck. The CEO of Sustainable Development Goal 2 Advocacy explained the symbolism behind the empty plates: “We use these plates to represent the 733 million people worldwide who face hunger. We need urgent action and commitment to drive change, building on Brazil’s and the G20’s promises to create an alliance for this cause.” The protest came after Brazil committed to partially funding the global alliance against hunger and poverty.

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UNRWA: 200 UNRWA workers killed in Gaza

Africa /

 Nearly 200 UNRWA workers have been killed in Gaza since the start of Israel’s ongoing offensive on Oct. 7, 2023, the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees said on Saturday. “When the war in Gaza started nearly 10 months ago, no one thought we will reach this grim milestone. Nearly 200 UNRWA team members have been killed in Gaza,” Philippe Lazzarini said in a statement on X. “These are not numbers, these are our colleagues and our friends,” said Lazzarini, noting that “this is by far the largest loss of personnel killed in a single conflict or natural disaster since the creation of the United Nations – a reality the world must never accept.” Lazzarini reiterated “the call of the UN Secretary General for a full accountability for each and every one of these deaths.” Israel has continued its brutal offensive on Gaza since an Oct. 7 attack by Hamas. More than 39,000 Palestinians have since been killed, mostly women and children. Vast tracts of Gaza lie in ruins amid a crippling blockade of food, clean water and medicine. Israel is accused of genocide at the International Court of Justice for its actions in Gaza.

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Mohamed Bazoum remains defiant despite detention

Africa /

A year ago, Mohamed Bazoum was ousted in a military coup led by General Tiani, who seized control of Niger with army backing. Since then, the military has entrenched its authority by curbing freedoms, suspending political parties, and silencing dissent. There is no set timeline for restoring civilian rule, and Niger has distanced itself from Western allies while aligning more closely with Russia. Bazoum and his wife, Hadiza, have been under detention at the presidential residence since October, cut off from the outside world except for regular visits from his doctor. He has no phone and is under constant guard, with his doctor bringing him food and books. Despite these harsh conditions, Bazoum remains resolute in refusing to resign. A former philosophy professor, he finds solace in reading extensively, from classic authors like Shakespeare and Tolstoy to contemporary figures like Romain Gary. He also reads political texts, including Dominique Moïsi’s “The Triumph of Emotions.” Even after a bout of malaria weakened him in the spring, Bazoum remains determined. He refuses to step down, despite the recent lifting of his presidential immunity, which could lead to a trial.

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Tshisekedi criticizes Ruto on Nairobi process

Africa /

DRC President Félix Tshisekedi has criticized Kenyan President William Ruto for mishandling the Nairobi Process, which was intended to facilitate dialogue with armed groups in eastern DRC. Tshisekedi accused Ruto of aligning with Rwanda, which he believes has stalled the initiative. The Nairobi Process, originally launched by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, aimed to support disarmament and demobilization. Despite several meeting cycles, progress has stalled since the third round in December 2023. Tshisekedi’s criticism highlights the growing tensions between the DRC and Kenya. Kinshasa has previously expressed dissatisfaction with the East African Community (EAC) force’s handling of the M23 rebellion, accusing it of inadequate action. The situation worsened when Nairobi announced the formation of the Congo River Alliance (AFC), a political-military group associated with the M23. Kenya’s refusal to arrest AFC leader Corneille Nangaa led the DRC to recall its ambassadors to Kenya and the EAC for consultations.

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Photo Gallery: Daily Life in Tanzania

Africa /

Daily Life in Tanzania Daily life in Tanzania reflects the country’s cultural diversity and geographical differences. Here are some key points about daily life in Tanzania: Nature and Activities: Tanzania is renowned for its natural beauty. Outdoor activities such as safaris, mountain climbing (especially Mount Kilimanjaro), and beach activities are popular among both locals and tourists. Cultural Diversity: Tanzania is a rich mosaic of various ethnic groups. This diversity is evident in everything from food to music and clothing. Cuisine: Tanzanian cuisine typically includes maize, rice, sweet potatoes, bananas, and various meats and seafood. In the northern regions, especially Zanzibar, spices and seafood are prominent. Daily Life: In cities, people usually rise early and spend their days working, studying, or engaging in other activities. In rural areas, life tends to be more traditional and agriculture-based. Farming, particularly maize and coffee production, is a primary livelihood for many. Transportation: In cities and rural areas, public transportation options include buses, shared minivans, and motorcycle taxis (boda-boda). These are common for city commuting. Education and Health: Education and healthcare services are more developed in cities, while rural areas may have limited access. Education is provided through both public and private schools. Healthcare services are offered by public hospitals and private clinics. Social Life: Tanzanians are social and hospitable. Family events, community celebrations, and religious ceremonies are integral parts of daily life. Religious festivals, particularly among Christians and Muslims, are widely celebrated. Markets: In cities and villages, markets are popular places to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, food items, and other goods. Markets also serve as important social hubs. Clothing: Clothing styles vary depending on the region and culture. In cities, modern and Western-style clothing is common, while traditional attire is more prevalent in rural areas. Climate and Lifestyle: Due to the tropical climate, daily life is often adjusted to warm and humid conditions. The dry and rainy seasons significantly influence lifestyle.

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UN chief: Humanitarian situation in Gaza ‘total disaster

World /

 UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned Thursday about the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip while reiterating a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. “The humanitarian situation in Gaza is a total disaster,” Guterres said as he listed two reasons. “First, a military campaign that has the highest level of killing and destruction that I remember in any other military campaign since I am Secretary General, anywhere in the world,” he said. “The second reason is because the level of humanitarian aid is totally out of proportion with the needs.” His remarks came one day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of the US Congress, where he claimed that the war in Gaza has “one of the lowest ratios of combatants to non-combatant casualties in the history of urban warfare.” Turning to Netanyahu’s claims about Gaza, Guterres said: “There was nothing said yesterday that is new. So, there is nothing that was said that deserves comments, and obviously, we absolutely must keep the two-state solution as the only possible long-term solution for peace in the region, independently of whatever is said by whoever, wherever.” Asked by Anadolu about his evaluations of Netanyahu’s claims about the number of casualties in Gaza, Guterres said: “My answer is simple: to whom people believe in relation to that, I am very at ease in relation to this question.” Guterres said he has not reached out to Netanyahu while he is in the US to discuss attacks on UN convoys in Gaza. “I have not reached out to the Prime Minister, but our people have been reaching out, both to Israeli authorities and also to other countries, exactly in order to make sure that this kind of regrettable incidents are not repeated,” he added. Netanyahu has faced a wave of protests since arriving Monday in Washington. Thousands took to the streets to protest his address to Congress and his policies in Gaza. They are also demanding a cease-fire in the besieged enclave. Nearly 39,200 Palestinians have since been killed, mostly women and children, and over 90,400 injured, according to local health authorities. Over nine months into the Israeli onslaught, vast tracts of Gaza lie in ruins amid a crippling blockade of food, clean water and medicine. Israel is accused of genocide at the International Court of Justice, which ordered Tel Aviv to immediately halt its military operation in the southern city of Rafah, where more than 1 million Palestinians had sought refuge from the war before it was invaded on May 6.

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The UN is sending a short mission to aid in CAR’s local election

Africa /

Preparations are underway in the Central African Republic for local elections in October, the first in over 36 years. MINUSCA, the UN peacekeeping mission, is playing a crucial role in this process. According to spokesperson Florence Marchal, MINUSCA will support the review of the electoral register by deploying 104 tonnes of equipment and transporting 384 people. The mission is also providing $1.3 million for electoral roll revision and advocating for additional resources and the participation of women and youth. In addition to logistical support, MINUSCA’s involvement includes political efforts to ensure an inclusive and peaceful electoral process. The mission is collaborating with national forces to develop an election security plan and aims to register around 800,000 new voters from a total of 2 million, updating the roll since its last revision in 2020. This effort aligns with the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation, which seeks to decentralize the peace process.

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