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Ghanaians reeling after fire destroys largest used clothes market

Business /

Devastated traders in the West African nation of Ghana are seeking aid to rebuild the country’s largest second-hand clothing market. The Kantamanto Market in the capital Accra was ravaged by a fire on the night of Jan. 1 that reduced huge swaths of it to ashes and destroyed millions of used clothing items. According to a statement Sunday by the Ghana-based Or Foundation, nearly 8,900 stalls were destroyed and 10,000 people were directly affected. “15 million secondhand garments arrive from the Global North in Kantamanto Market every week, and the community of more than 30,000 people working in Kantamanto Market is responsible for recirculating 25 million pieces of second-hand clothing every month through resale, reuse, repair and remanufacturing. It’s a vibrant hub of creativity and a necessary alternative to fast fashion,” the charity said, emphasizing the market’s vital role. A representative of the Or Foundation confirmed to Anadolu on Monday that they were seeking donations to help rebuild the businesses. “This funding will be dispersed according to the expressed priorities of market leadership. Resources are needed to rebuild…Resources will be needed to keep individuals afloat physically, financially and spiritually,” the foundation said in the statement. It said that while it was not able to confirm actual financial losses, nearly 60% of the market was burnt to ground. Most of the items sold in the market came from the US, Canada and England. Although the reason behind the fire is still under investigation, rebuilding has begun, according to a report by the Ghana News Agency. Ghanian President John Mahama’s special aide and spokesperson Joyce Mogtari Bawah said the administration will “soon begin enhancing the market.” Former Trade and Industry Minister Alan Kyerematen was among those leading with donations to help the devastated businesses. Given the enormity of the damage caused by the fire, the All Traders Association at Kantamanto sought support from everyone. “Our doors are open for support to rebuild our market,” it said. People also called on big fast fashion brands to contribute to the market’s reconstruction. “Tens of millions of dollars were lost in equipment, bales of secondhand clothing, infrastructure and other supplies,” it said.  “The Kantamanto community spends over $300 million on bales every year, over half of which is paid to the Global North exporters.”

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Mozambique parliament sworn in amid protests and general strike

Africa /

Mozambique’s new parliament was sworn in on Monday in Maputo amid tight security, as opposition-led protests and a general strike paralyzed the city, leaving it eerily quiet. Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who continues to dispute the results of the October 9 election, called for the strike to protest alleged electoral fraud. During the swearing-in, around 30 seats were left vacant as opposition parties Renamo and MDM boycotted the event, demanding a recount. However, members of the Podemos party were present, with MP Ivandro Massingue accusing the boycotting parties of “cowardice.” Protests in the city included barricades and burning tires, with police deploying tear gas to disperse crowds. “We are tired of manipulation. Independence begins today,” said one protester, Osvaldo. Some businesses remained closed, fearing looting, though others, like shopkeeper Selzio, expressed support for the strike, saying, “Change requires sacrifice.” Incoming President Daniel Chapo has called for unity, while newly elected Speaker Margarida Talapa promised a parliament “open to dialogue.” Yet, many citizens remain skeptical, with widespread criticism of the government for neglecting the country’s worsening conditions.

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Rescued baby gorilla recovering in Istanbul zoo

Turkey /

A baby gorilla rescued from a plane’s cargo hold is recovering at an Istanbul zoo while wildlife officials consider whether he can be returned to his natural habitat. The case also highlights the issue of illegal animal trafficking through the city’s busy airports. The five-month-old gorilla, named Zeytin (meaning “Olive”), was discovered in a box on a Turkish Airlines flight from Nigeria to Thailand last month. He is now being cared for at Polonezkoy Zoo, where he is recovering from the traumatic journey. Fahrettin Ulu, director of Istanbul Nature Conservation and National Parks, said on Sunday, “We hope the baby gorilla can return to his homeland. The most important thing is ensuring a safe environment for him.” Since his rescue, Zeytin has been gaining weight and becoming more active. “When he first arrived, he was very shy and stayed in one spot,” said veterinarian Gulfem Esmen. “Now he’s more confident and enjoys playing on his own.” Both western and eastern gorillas, native to central Africa’s forests and mountains, are endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Istanbul’s airports are increasingly being used for smuggling wildlife. In October, customs officials at Sabiha Gokcen Airport discovered 17 young Nile crocodiles and 10 monitor lizards hidden in a passenger’s luggage.

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Turkish UAVs find buyers in Africa

Africa /

Turkish unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have made inroads into Africa, with solutions developed in Türkiye from UAV technologies undertaking new missions abroad. Turkish drone company Zyrone Dynamics, renowned for its expertise in rotary-wing and variable-volume UAVs, has added a significant milestone to its export achievements. The company recently exported its ZD100 and ZD200 rotary-wing UAVs to an African country, where they will play a critical role in missions such as disaster search and rescue operations and the delivery of cargo to vital locations. Both the ZD100 and ZD200 models are distinguished by their advanced technical capabilities and versatile applications. The ZD100 sets itself apart from competitors with an impressive flight time of 80 minutes, a payload capacity of 3 kilograms (6.61 pounds), and a top speed of 130 kilometers (80.7 miles) per hour.  Designed for ease of use and compactness, it excels in challenging environments thanks to its monocoque carbon body, which ensures durability and resilience in harsh weather conditions. The ZD100 is particularly valued for its high performance and adaptability across diverse terrains and operational needs. The ZD200, designed for more demanding missions, boasts a maximum payload capacity of 20 kilograms (44 pounds) and can achieve a flight range of over 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) when carrying a 10-kilogram (22-pound) payload. Its modular design supports the integration of specialized equipment such as thermal cameras, LIDAR sensors and environmental monitoring tools, making it suitable for tasks ranging from critical infrastructure inspections to coastline mapping and mine surveillance.  Built with a durable carbon frame, the ZD200 can withstand wind speeds of up to 40 kilometers (24.8 miles) per hour, ensuring reliable performance in harsh conditions. – Confident steps in global market Murat Kanber, co-founder of Zyrone Dynamics, shared insights with Anadolu about the growing global interest in UAV technology.  He highlighted the widespread adoption of UAVs across various fields and emphasized the increasing demand from both domestic and international markets for Zyrone’s innovative air vehicles. “We are proud to export our ZD100 and ZD200 UAV models to Africa, following our earlier ZD100 technology exports to India,” Kanber said. “Our UAVs are successfully deployed in critical missions such as post-disaster search and rescue, medical aid delivery, and essential cargo transportation.” Kanber underscored how these exports demonstrate Zyrone Dynamics’ global technological capabilities and reaffirm the company’s commitment to supporting humanitarian aid efforts.  He also highlighted the ZD200’s flexible and advanced integration features, which open new possibilities in diverse sectors, from natural resource protection to critical infrastructure monitoring. “Our experience operating in varied geographies has been instrumental in developing more efficient and safer UAVs,” he said. “We aim to meet users’ evolving needs with enhanced performance and capabilities. As we continue to succeed in this mission, we’ve observed a steady rise in foreign demand.” Kanber revealed that the company is actively engaged in negotiations with other regions while continuing to deliver on existing international requests.  “We are confident that our products rank among the best in their class globally,” he said. “With this confidence, we are taking bold strides toward becoming a leading and trusted solution provider in the global UAV market.”

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Death toll from Los Angeles wildfires rises to 24

World /

The death toll rose to 24 on Sunday in the wake of the devastating wildfires ravaging the US state of California. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office said they are investigating at least two dozen deaths related to two massive wildfires that have been raging in Southern California since last Tuesday. Officials said 16 deaths were attributed to the Eaton fire and eight were linked to the Palisades fire. Those numbers are expected to rise, as the medical examiner said they cannot confirm human remains until they are processed at their facility. More than 150,000 residents have been evacuated, with another 87,000 in evacuation warning zones. More than 12,000 homes and businesses have been burned to the ground, with the wildfires so far scorching over 60 square miles (155 square kilometers). “Initial aerial assessments estimate 5,316 structures for the Palisades Fire and over 7,000 structures destroyed from the Eaton Fire,” the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) said in a statement.  “These initial numbers make the Eaton and Palisades fires likely the second and fourth most destructive fires in California’s history respectively,” it added. Firefighters continue to battle the destructive blazes, which have been fueled by continued heavy winds in the region with wind gusts between 30 to 70 miles (48 to 112 kilometers) per hour. Because of those dangerous conditions, a fire warning remains in effect until Wednesday and evacuation orders have been extended until at least Thursday. Dusk to dawn curfews also remain in effect as police crack down on looting in the area. “We’re not out of the woods yet. We have some very significant fire weather ahead of us,” said Nancy Ward, director of the California Office of Emergency Services, at a news conference. “We need to provide the people and the first responders in Southern California the support that they need,” Ward continued.  “We’ve prepositioned additional engines, fire crews, helicopters, bulldozers, water tenders (tankers) across all of southern California, in Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County and San Diego County, all poised to assist and support the additional fire threat.” The manpower being used to fight the fires is staggering: 14,000 emergency personnel, 1,300 fire engines and 84 aircraft have been deployed from nine states, including California, as well as crews from Canada and Mexico. California Gov. Gavin Newsom said he is deploying another 1,000 members of the California National Guard to help fight the wildfires. President Joe Biden has already approved a major disaster declaration for the state to provide financial assistance for cleanup and rebuilding, with early estimates putting the cost of damage from the wildfires to reach at least $10 billion. Humanitarian groups and nonprofit organizations such as the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank have already begun assistance efforts for displaced residents, providing food, water, shelter and living supplies for those who have been affected by the deadly blazes.

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Nine people were killed in an armed attack in Nigeria

Africa /

Nine people have been reported dead in an armed attack in Nigeria’s Nasarawa State. According to local media, the attack took place in the Karu area, where armed gang members targeted victims, leaving nine dead and many others injured. Nigeria has long struggled with armed gang violence, as well as attacks from terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Although the country imposes the death penalty for kidnapping, abductions for ransom remain common. Armed assailants often target villages, schools, and travelers, demanding ransoms.

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Ethiopians sweep Dubai marathon titles

Africa /

Ethiopia celebrated a triumphant performance at the Dubai Marathon on Sunday, with its athletes dominating the top spots. Bute Gemechu claimed the men’s title with an impressive time of 2:04:51. The 23-year-old, still early in his international career, has only participated in a few major races to date. In a thrilling women’s race, Bedatu Hirpa surged past her compatriot Dera Dida in the final stretch to win with a world-leading time of 2:18:27. While Hirpa marked her biggest career victory and set a personal best, Dida, who finished just four seconds behind in 2:18:31, appeared devastated at the line. It was a remarkable sight against the iconic Dubai skyline, as Ethiopian runners claimed the top 10 spots in both the men’s and women’s categories.

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 17 killed, 74 injured in explosions at gas stations in southern Yemen

World /

 At least 17 people were killed and 74 others injured on Sunday in a series of explosions that struck four gas stations in Yemen’s southern Al-Bayda province, according to the Health Ministry under the internationally unrecognized Houthi-led government. As many as 50 others are in critical condition, the ministry said in a statement. Late Saturday, the Interior Ministry’s media platform said the explosions occurred in the Nassefa area of Al-Zahir district. Houthi government spokesperson Hashem Sharafuddin said security forces are actively investigating the incident, though no further details were provided. The group extended “deepest condolences and sympathy to the families and loved ones of the victims of the tragic incident that occurred due to the explosion at gas stations.” The presence of numerous gas stations in residential areas across Yemen has led to repeated accidents. Yemen remains deeply affected by a prolonged civil war that has devastated its infrastructure and left millions suffering from a humanitarian crisis.

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Rwanda’s president denies supporting M23 rebels

Africa /

Rwandan President Paul Kagame dismissed reports claiming that his country supports the M23 rebel group, which recently seized key towns in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Kagame told reporters in the capital Kigali on Thursday that Rwanda has nothing to do with the rebel group and it does not make sense to blame Rwanda for the conflict in the DR Congo. “These leaders of M23 and the majority of their fighters came from Uganda, where they had been refugees,” he said, adding that M23 rebels are not Rwandans but speak the Rwandan language, Kinyarwanda. Kinshasa accuses Kigali of supporting the M23 rebels, a claim that Kagame has frequently denied. A recent report by the United Nations Group of Experts claimed that Rwandan forces were helping the rebels in DR Congo. Kagame said M23 fighters are Congolese, and even the past and present leaders admit it.  ‘‘Why do we have over 100,000 refugees here in Rwanda originating for eastern Congo?” he said. He said the Rwandan government disarmed M23 fighters who crossed into Rwanda in 2012-13 and gave back their arms to the authorities in DR Congo. Kagame urged Congolese authorities to address the root causes of the conflict and negotiate with the rebel group to find a solution to end it. Angolan President Joao Lourenco had been mediating between Tshisekedi and Kagame, but talks hit a deadlock last month.

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PLO warns of grave repercussions from Israeli laws targeting UNRWA

World /

 A senior member of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) warned Thursday of severe consequences from two Israeli laws targeting the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) that are set to take effect soon. The first law, passed in October by Israel’s Knesset, or parliament, bans the UN agency’s operations within Israel. The second revokes a 1967 agreement between Israel and UNRWA. Ahmed Abu Holi, a member of the PLO Executive Committee, said that “implementing these laws could undermine UNRWA’s mandate in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank while eliminating its presence in East Jerusalem.” “This will deprive millions of refugees of vital services, including education, health care and life-saving emergency aid, leading to a humanitarian collapse in Gaza,” he said in a statement on his Facebook page. Abu Holi urged UN General Assembly member states and the UN Security Council to take decisive action to pressure Israel to halt enforcement of the laws and counter efforts to dismantle or undermine UNRWA’s mandate. The refugee agency itself issued a warning last Saturday saying that time was running out before the Israeli ban takes effect at the end of January. This would block the organization from providing services to Palestinian refugees in the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, according to comments by UNRWA’s Director of Communications, Juliette Touma, in an interview with Ireland’s RTE. The laws, finalized by the Knesset on Oct. 28, will force UNRWA to cease operations in areas under Israeli jurisdiction, shut down its offices, and close any associated bank accounts.  Israeli authorities have alleged that some UNRWA staff were involved in the cross-border attacks on Israel by the Palestinian group Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023. UNRWA, established in the aftermath of the 1948 Nakba to assist displaced Palestinian refugees, operates in five regions: Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon. The agency currently supports approximately 5.9 million Palestinians, according to its data. The Israeli army has continued a genocidal war on Gaza that has killed over 46,000 people, mostly women and children, since Oct. 7, 2023, despite a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire. In November last year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the enclave.

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