Nigerian tech firms are harnessing AI to address some of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, from the spread of disinformation to inclusion of marginalized languages and streamlining of data journalism

Libya’s football federation hired Aliou Cisse, the 2022 AFCON-winning coach, to lead their national team until 2027.

Athol Fugard, South Africa’s most influential playwright, known for his powerful anti-apartheid dramas, has died at 92.

Benin’s annual Voodoo festival in Ouidah attracts thousands of visitors, both local and international, offering a unique blend of cultural experience, religious observance, and tourism.

 China is looking at a potential option that involves selling TikTok’s operations in the US to tech-billionaire Elon Musk to keep the app from being effectively banned, Bloomberg News reported Monday. Chinese officials prefer that TikTok remains under the ownership of parent ByteDance Ltd., Bloomberg said, citing sources familiar with the matter. Last week, the US Supreme Court signaled that it will uphold a ban on TikTok by Jan. 19 — a day before President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office — over national security concerns about China. According to Bloomberg, senior Chinese officials had already begun to debate contingency plans for TikTok as part of an expansive discussion on how to work with Trump’s administration. Under one scenario, Musk’s social media platform X — formerly Twitter — would take control of TikTok US and run the businesses together, according to the report. Officials have yet to reach a firm consensus on how to proceed, it said. “It’s not clear how much ByteDance knows about the Chinese government discussions or whether TikTok and Musk have been involved. It’s also unclear whether Musk, TikTok and ByteDance have held any talks about the terms of any possible deal,” the report added.

Fiber optic drones capable of penetrating 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) into enemy lines and striking targets with high-resolution imagery have emerged as key tools in the Russia-Ukraine war. With a cable range of up to 20 kilometers, these drones operate at low altitudes, avoiding detection and interception. Anadolu obtained information on fiber optic first-person view (FPV) drones in the Russia-Ukraine conflict from open sources. Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, announced on Jan. 5 that Ukraine had struck over 54,000 Russian targets in December 2024, with 49% of these attacks carried out using kamikaze drones. Syrskyi noted that Russia’s increased use of fiber optic drones poses significant risks to troop safety and added that Ukraine has also begun deploying similar technology. – Immune to electronic warfare detection and interception FPV drones are typically low-cost quadcopters or similar models, controlled in real time through goggles worn by the operator. In the Russia-Ukraine war, studies show that electronic warfare devices have downed 75% to 90% of drones, jamming the radio link between the pilot and the drone. Fiber optic drones, however, are undetectable and immune to electronic warfare, transmitting high-resolution video without relying on radio signals. These drones fly at low altitudes, avoiding obstacles and reducing exposure to air defense fire, unlike radio-controlled drones. The system uses a durable fiber optic spool that unravels during flight, maintaining a secure connection. The pilot’s commands and video data are transmitted as light signals via the fiber optic cable at high speeds. Reconnaissance drones equipped with high-resolution cameras offer a critical advantage in detecting enemy positions. However, the use of fiber optic cables increases the drone’s weight and reduces its range. Fiber optic drones face limitations, including slower speeds compared to radio-controlled drones, vulnerability to cable tangling and reduced maneuverability for turns exceeding 45-degree angles. While radio-controlled drones can operate over ranges of 5 to 200 kilometers (3 to 124 miles), fiber optic-guided drones are restricted to a range of 20 kilometers (12.4 miles). In addition to reconnaissance, these drones can carry bombs, explosives or anti-tank warheads for attack missions. – Fiber optic drones in Ukraine’s inventory Ukraine has tested various fiber optic drones, including the 20-kilometer range HCX (Argus 30), which weighs 1.2 kilograms (2.6 pounds) and features optical and thermal cameras alongside a 4-kilogram (8.8-pound) payload. The Khyzak REBOFF kamikaze drone has a 5-kilometer (3-mile) cable range, with an upgraded 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) version capable of carrying up to 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of explosives. The E-Banshee drone, a six-propeller fiber optic model, has been successfully tested for bomb delivery, though a 10-kilometer cable tangled during one trial. The Black Widow Web 10 kamikaze drone has a 5-kilometer range and can carry a payload of 2 kilograms of explosives. On Jan. 2, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry announced testing over 12 locally produced drones, each capable of carrying up to 3 kilograms (6.6 pounds). – Fiber optic drones in Russia’s arsenal Since 2024, Russia has deployed the Knyaz Vandal of Novgorod (KVN) drone, developed by NPC Ushkuy in Novgorod. Russian sources claim the drone has a 20-kilometer range, can carry 3.5 kilograms (7.7 pounds) of explosives and is equipped with the PG-7V anti-tank round used in RPG-7 launchers. A captured KVN drone in Ukraine was found to have a 10.8-kilometer (6.7-mile) long fiber optic cable. Ukrainian experts suggest the KVN drone resembles the Chinese-made Skywalker model and was likely imported, as indicated by Chinese-written labels on the captured drone. Russia also uses the Piranha-5 drone, which carries 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) of explosives and supports infantry within a 1 to 3-kilometer (0.6 to 1.8-mile) radius. The Piranha-13, a multipurpose drone with a heavier payload and fiber optic control, remains less documented. Additionally, Russia deploys the Product 55, a fiber optic-controlled kamikaze drone developed by ZALA. – Impact on battlefield Fiber optic-controlled drones establish a 20-kilometer “no-go” zone for armored vehicles, as they remain undetectable and immune to electronic warfare. This capability disrupts armored assaults and limits defensive measures.

 Living near airports with high aircraft noise could increase the risk of heart issues, including heart attacks and strokes, according to a new study led by University College London researchers. The study analyzed detailed heart imaging data from 3,635 individuals living near four major airports in England and compared it with data from people in areas with lower aircraft noise levels. The risk, researchers found, was particularly true for those exposed to higher aircraft noise at night, likely due to factors such as disrupted sleep and increased time spent at home, leading to greater noise exposure. The researchers found that heart abnormalities in people not exposed to aircraft noise could raise the risk of major cardiac events, such as heart attack, arrhythmias, or stroke, by two to four times compared to those without these abnormalities. “Our study is observational so we cannot say with certainty that high levels of aircraft noise caused these differences in heart structure and function,” said cardiologist Gaby Captur. “However, our findings add to a growing body of evidence that aircraft noise can adversely affect heart health and our health more generally,” she added.

Newly published research indicates that climate change added an average of 41 days of dangerous heat in 2024, harming human health and ecosystems. The joint report by World Weather Attribution (WWA) and Climate Central warns that every country needs to prepare for rising climate risks to minimize deaths and damage in 2025 and beyond. The world experienced an average of 41 extra days of dangerous heat in 2024 due to human-caused warming, the study said, suggesting that a much faster transition away from fossil fuels is needed to avoid a future of relentless heat waves, drought, wildfires, storms and floods. The report noted that climate change intensified 26 of the 29 weather events studied by World Weather Attribution which killed at least 3,700 people and displaced millions. “Climate change had a stronger influence than El Nino on many extreme weather events,” it added. Friederike Otto, lead of WWA and senior lecturer in Climate Science at Imperial College London, said the impacts of fossil fuel warming “have never been clearer or more devastating” than in 2024, adding: “We are living in a dangerous new era.” He said extreme weather killed thousands of people, forced millions from their homes this year and caused unrelenting suffering, recalling that floods in Spain, hurricanes in the US, drought in the Amazon and floods across Africa are “just a few examples.” “We know exactly what we need to do to stop things from getting worse: stop burning fossil fuels,” said Otto. “The top resolution for 2025 must be transitioning away from fossil fuels, which will make the world a safer and more stable place.” – ‘Failed scorecard’ Citing projections that this year is set to be the hottest on record, the report also noted that the first six months saw record-breaking temperatures, extending a streak that started in 2023 to 13 months, with the world’s hottest day in history recorded on July 22. “If the world does not rapidly transition away from oil, gas and coal, the number of dangerous heat days will continue to increase each year and threaten public health,” warned the scientists. According to the study, a faster shift away from fossil fuels, improvements in early warning, real-time reporting of heat deaths and international finance to help developing countries become more resilient are the key resolutions for 2025 to both tackle climate change and protect people from extreme weather. “Another devastating year of extreme weather has shown that we are not well prepared for life at 1.3-1.5°C of warming,” said Julie Arrighi, director of programs at the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre. “In 2025, it’s crucial that every country accelerate efforts to adapt to climate change,” she added. Ben Clarke, researcher at the Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London, said this annual report reads like a “failed scorecard.” “The world is not cutting emissions and preparing for climate change quickly enough. The consequences are record-breaking extreme weather events that cause deaths, displacement, and loss of livelihoods.”

Former President Jimmy Carter, the longest-living president in U.S. history, passed away Sunday at the age of 100. He died peacefully in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family, after receiving hospice care since February 18, 2023. Carter had faced numerous health challenges in recent years, including brain cancer and skin cancer. In a statement, his son, Chip Carter, described him as a hero who stood for peace, human rights, and unselfish love, adding that his father’s legacy was one of bringing people together through shared beliefs. Carter’s political rise was improbable—starting as a peanut farmer in Georgia, he became governor of the state before ascending to the presidency in 1976. His presidency, marked by challenges like the Iran hostage crisis, oil shortages, and inflation, was often seen as a tumultuous period. Despite these struggles, he achieved significant international successes, such as brokering the historic Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel in 1978, negotiating the Panama Canal Treaty, and securing nuclear arms control with the Soviet Union through SALT II. After leaving office, Carter became known for his humanitarian work, founding the Carter Center and dedicating his life to advocating for peace, democracy, and human rights. He also worked with Habitat for Humanity, helping to build homes for those in need around the world. In 2002, Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his tireless efforts in conflict resolution and promoting global human rights. Even into his 90s, he remained active in humanitarian causes and community service.

Newly published research indicates that climate change added an average of 41 days of dangerous heat in 2024, harming human health and ecosystems. The joint report by World Weather Attribution (WWA) and Climate Central warns that every country needs to prepare for rising climate risks to minimize deaths and damage in 2025 and beyond. The world experienced an average of 41 extra days of dangerous heat in 2024 due to human-caused warming, the study said, suggesting that a much faster transition away from fossil fuels is needed to avoid a future of relentless heat waves, drought, wildfires, storms and floods. The report noted that climate change intensified 26 of the 29 weather events studied by World Weather Attribution which killed at least 3,700 people and displaced millions. “Climate change had a stronger influence than El Nino on many extreme weather events,” it added. Friederike Otto, lead of WWA and senior lecturer in Climate Science at Imperial College London, said the impacts of fossil fuel warming “have never been clearer or more devastating” than in 2024, adding: “We are living in a dangerous new era.” He said extreme weather killed thousands of people, forced millions from their homes this year and caused unrelenting suffering, recalling that floods in Spain, hurricanes in the US, drought in the Amazon and floods across Africa are “just a few examples.” “We know exactly what we need to do to stop things from getting worse: stop burning fossil fuels,” said Otto. “The top resolution for 2025 must be transitioning away from fossil fuels, which will make the world a safer and more stable place.” – ‘Failed scorecard’ Citing projections that this year is set to be the hottest on record, the report also noted that the first six months saw record-breaking temperatures, extending a streak that started in 2023 to 13 months, with the world’s hottest day in history recorded on July 22. “If the world does not rapidly transition away from oil, gas and coal, the number of dangerous heat days will continue to increase each year and threaten public health,” warned the scientists. According to the study, a faster shift away from fossil fuels, improvements in early warning, real-time reporting of heat deaths and international finance to help developing countries become more resilient are the key resolutions for 2025 to both tackle climate change and protect people from extreme weather. “Another devastating year of extreme weather has shown that we are not well prepared for life at 1.3-1.5°C of warming,” said Julie Arrighi, director of programs at the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre. “In 2025, it’s crucial that every country accelerate efforts to adapt to climate change,” she added. Ben Clarke, researcher at the Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London, said this annual report reads like a “failed scorecard.” “The world is not cutting emissions and preparing for climate change quickly enough. The consequences are record-breaking extreme weather events that cause deaths, displacement, and loss of livelihoods.”

 Regular coffee drinkers may face a significantly lower risk of developing head and neck cancers, according to new research published on Monday. Researchers from the Huntsman Cancer Institute in the US analyzed data from 9,548 cancer patients and 15,783 healthy controls. An analysis combining data from multiple studies found that consuming four or more cups of caffeinated coffee daily was associated with a 17% reduction in overall head and neck cancer risk, researchers reported in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society. Coffee drinkers showed 30% lower odds of oral cavity cancer and 22% lower odds of throat cancer compared to non-coffee drinkers. Even decaffeinated coffee consumption was linked to a 25% reduction in oral cavity cancer risk. Tea consumption showed mixed results. While drinking one cup or less daily was associated with a 9% lower overall head and neck cancer risk, consuming more than one cup is associated with a 38% higher chance of laryngeal cancer, the study found. “Coffee and tea habits are fairly complex,” said senior author Yuan-Chin Amy Lee from the research center in a press release by the publisher. “These findings support the need for more data and further studies around the impact that coffee and tea can have on reducing cancer risk,” she added. The research gains significance as head and neck cancer, which rank as the seventh most common cancer globally, continue to rise in low- and middle-income countries.

The fourth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival is underway in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, showcasing over 120 films from 81 countries. This year’s program includes 16 films in the Features Competition. One of the highlights is My Driver and I, a Sudanese drama about the bond between a taxi driver and a young Saudi woman. The film’s lead actor, Mustafa Shehata, describes it as a deeply emotional story of an immigrant driver who treats his young passenger like a daughter, while also longing for his own daughter back in Sudan. Saudi Arabia is aiming to expand its cultural influence, and since the festival’s launch in 2021, it has drawn global talent. This year, Academy Award winners Viola Davis and Spike Lee, as well as Bollywood stars Aamir Khan and Ranbir Kapoor, are attending, enhancing the festival’s growing international profile. However, some critics argue that such events are intended to distract from ongoing concerns over the country’s human rights record. The festival runs through December 14.

The Arctic Ocean could experience its first “ice-free” day as early as 2027, according to a new study, signaling a profound shift in the planet’s climate. Even under the most optimistic scenarios, this “ominous milestone for the planet,” is inevitable within the next two decades, researchers caution in the study published in Nature Communications on Monday. “The first ice-free day in the Arctic won’t change things dramatically,” said co-author Alexandra Jahn, a climatologist at the University of Colorado Boulder. “But it will show that we’ve fundamentally altered one of the defining characteristics of the natural environment in the Arctic Ocean, which is that it is covered by sea ice and snow year-round, through greenhouse gas emissions.” Arctic sea ice, which has been shrinking by more than 12% per decade since satellite monitoring began in 1979, plays a critical role in regulating global temperatures and supporting marine ecosystems. As the ice melts, darker ocean waters absorb more sunlight – a feedback loop that accelerates warming. This phenomenon, known as the albedo effect, has transformed the Arctic into a region warming four times faster than the global average.
 – ‘We want to be prepared’ Using 11 climate models and 366 simulations, the study estimates the ice-free threshold could be crossed within three to six years if unusually warm conditions occur. Most scenarios place this event in the 2030s, highlighting the urgency of cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Lead author Celine Heuze, a climatology researcher at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, underscored the importance of preparation. “Because the first ice-free day is likely to happen earlier than the first ice-free month, we want to be prepared. It’s also important to know what events could lead to the melting of all sea ice in the Arctic Ocean,” Heuze said. While the findings are stark, the researchers emphasize that significant reductions in carbon emissions could delay this milestone and mitigate its broader impacts. “Any reductions in emissions would help preserve sea ice,” Jahn added, offering a glimmer of hope in the face of a rapidly changing Arctic.

African health officials committed Sunday to scaling up health care interventions aimed at curbing new HIV infections during World AIDS Day. The day was marked under the global theme “Take the rights path: My health, my right!” underscoring the link between human rights and health care access. Rwanda’s Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana said while the country has made good progress in diminishing the impact of HIV, reducing new infections by 70% and AIDS-related deaths by 60% since 2010, AIDS remains a serious health challenge. “There are almost 10 new HIV infections in Rwanda every day. It is not a small number. And mostly they are young people 18 to 20 years old. This means we have a lot of work to do,” said Nsanzimana. “In the next months, we should be focused on areas where we can make a big impact. Number one is to make sure young people are well-informed, and communication is key,” he said. In Kenya, World AIDS Day was marked at Nyayo National Stadium with a call to action and a renewed commitment to eliminating HIV as a public health threat. Cabinet Secretary for Health Deborah M. Barasa in a statement highlighted the crucial role of men and boys in the fight against HIV, urging them to challenge stigma, promote health-seeking behaviors and lead community efforts. “The fight against HIV is a collective effort, and men and boys must be champions for change,” she said. Kenya has made significant progress in its HIV response, with 98% of adults living with HIV receiving treatment by the end of 2023 and 97% achieving viral suppression, according to official data. New HIV infections have dropped by 83% over the past decade, while AIDS-related deaths have decreased by 64%. HIV prevalence in Kenya stands at 3.3%. Matshidiso Moeti, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) regional director for Africa, said that HIV is a complex health challenge, inseparable from social factors such as poverty and gender inequality and complicated by stigma and discrimination. Protecting human rights is key to achieving universal HIV care, she added. According to the WHO, equal access to prevention tools and education are key to stopping new infections while stigma and discrimination undermine the fight against AIDS. Seven African nations have met the UNAIDS HIV 95-95-95 targets, a global benchmark to end HIV as a public health threat by 2030. The targets seek to ensure that 95% of HIV-positive people know their HIV status, 95% of people who know their HIV-positive status are on antiretroviral therapy and 95% of people on antiretroviral therapy maintain an undetectable viral load to reduce onward transmission. The small southern African nation of Eswatini, once facing one of the world’s worst HIV epidemics, is among the countries which have achieved the global HIV target. Eswatini Prime Minister Russell Dlamini said the kingdom will endeavor to put human rights first in the fight against HIV/AIDS while sustaining the gains. “I wish to reaffirm that Eswatini shall continue to engage with this year’s theme and ensure that no one is left behind in accessing HIV prevention services, treatment, care and support services,” he said, speaking in Mahlangatja in Manzini district, where the national commemoration took place. The Africa region has achieved an overall rating of 90-82-76, according to the WHO. In Uganda, Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng raised concerns about the high number of new HIV infections registered in the country annually, which may hinder Uganda’s goal to end AIDS by 2030. “New HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths have been reduced. However, they are not being reduced fast enough to enable us to reach the targets we expected to get in 2025, and that also means that the country is at risk of not achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030,” she said during a World AIDS Day commemoration in Buyende District in eastern Uganda. She also said the HIV response is heavily donor-funded, but with shifting priorities, there has been a reduction in funding. The funding contributions for the response from the country’s main donor, the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), declined from $426 million in the 2022/2023 financial year to $388 million in the 2023/2024 financial year after Uganda enacted the Anti-Homosexuality law in May 2023.

Rewriting the Thiaroye Massacre and the Shifting Historical Narrative The massacre at Thiaroye, which took place on December 1, 1944, remains one of the darkest chapters in the history of French colonialism in West Africa. The victims were soldiers of the “Tirailleurs Sénégalais,” a corps of colonial infantry drawn from West Africa to fight in both World Wars. Tensions had been building among the soldiers over unpaid wages in the days leading up to the massacre, and on that fateful day, French troops turned their guns on unarmed African soldiers, killing many. For years, French authorities downplayed the incident, labeling it as a “mutiny.” Early French military reports suggested that only 35 soldiers were killed, while later reports increased the death toll to 70. But recent research, including estimates based on the number of soldiers stationed at the camp, suggests the true toll could have been in the hundreds, with some historians estimating up to 400 deaths. On Thursday, French President Emmanuel Macron officially acknowledged the event as a massacre for the first time, in a letter to Senegal’s President Diomaye Faye, which was seen by The Associated Press. “France must recognize that on that day, the confrontation between soldiers and riflemen who demanded their full legitimate wages be paid, triggered a chain of events that resulted in a massacre,” Macron wrote. However, many historians reject the notion of a “confrontation” between the French soldiers and the African riflemen. Martin Mourre, a French historian and author of Thiaroye 1944: History and Memory of a Colonial Massacre, argues that the events were nothing less than the execution of unarmed soldiers. He points to the absence of any mention of weapons in the trial of the accused African soldiers and the lack of injuries among the French troops as evidence that there was no violent uprising, but rather a cold-blooded massacre. While Macron’s letter recognizes the event as a massacre, it avoids specifying the exact number of casualties, which remains a source of contention. The lack of transparency in the historical record has compounded the controversy. In 2014, French President François Hollande handed over archives on Thiaroye to Senegal’s then-president, Macky Sall. However, key documents—such as those detailing the location of mass graves and the precise number of soldiers present—remain elusive. It is unclear whether these documents still exist or if they have been lost or withheld. Senegalese efforts to uncover the truth have also been hampered. Under President Sall, historical investigations into the massacre were often delayed or obstructed, with some historians blaming diplomatic sensitivities toward France. “The archives remained inaccessible until this year for obscure reasons,” says Mourre. Mamadou Diouf, a Senegalese historian, notes that Sall’s reluctance to confront the painful history was likely aimed at avoiding tensions with the French government. However, Senegal’s newly elected President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has vowed to take control of the country’s historical narrative, with a focus on Thiaroye. Since his election in March, Faye has emphasized the importance of recognizing the massacre as a crucial part of Senegal’s national story. The government has organized extensive commemorations from December 1 to April 2025 to raise awareness and educate the public about the massacre. These efforts are part of a broader attempt to address the colonial past and reclaim Senegal’s historical voice. “The authorities’ goal behind these major commemorations is to integrate Thiaroye into Senegal’s national identity,” says Babacar Ndiaye, a political analyst at the Wathi think tank. “This is not just about remembering the massacre but ensuring the younger generation, many of whom may not know the full story, are exposed to it through television, media, and social media.” The 80th anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre occurs amid a shift in France’s influence in West Africa, where former colonies are increasingly distancing themselves from Paris. In recent years, countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have expelled French forces, while Chad has ended its military cooperation agreement with France. Senegal remains one of the few countries where French troops are still present, although they play a more limited, supportive role. President Faye has made clear that he does not view the continued French military presence favorably. “Historically, France enslaved, colonized, and stayed here,” he remarked. “It would be difficult to imagine another country, like China or Russia, having a military base in France.” At a ceremony on Sunday at the Thiaroye military cemetery, Faye announced several initiatives to honor the victims. These include the construction of a memorial, the creation of a research center to house the massacre’s archives, and the addition of history lessons on the event to the national school curriculum. December 1 will now be officially recognized as “National Day of the Tirailleur.” “We are doing this to fulfill our duty of remembrance, to reveal the truth, and to discharge a moral debt to the riflemen and their families,” Faye said, addressing an audience that included France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, as well as heads of state from neighboring countries. Macron did not attend the ceremony. The official narratives continue to differ. While the French foreign minister referred to the events as a “cry of anger” from the riflemen, which France “repressed in a bloodshed,” President Faye characterized the killings as “a premeditated act”—a clear sign of the ongoing tension between the two countries over how to reckon with this painful chapter of history.

The United Nations reported Friday that 2024 has become the deadliest year on record for humanitarian workers, with 281 deaths so far—surpassing the previous high of 280 in 2023. This tragic milestone is primarily driven by violence in the Middle East, with the highest number of fatalities occurring in Gaza. The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) highlighted the exceptional risks faced by aid workers, healthcare staff, delivery personnel, and other humanitarians operating in conflict zones. “Humanitarians are working courageously and selflessly in places like Gaza, Sudan, Lebanon, Ukraine, and beyond. They show the best humanity has to offer, and they are getting killed in return,” said OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke. He stressed that these deaths would send shockwaves through the humanitarian community, particularly those working on the front lines of conflict. According to the U.N., most of the victims were national staff (268 people), while 13 were international personnel. The majority of these deaths occurred in Gaza, where 230 aid workers have been killed. The figures come from the Aid Worker Security Database, a project funded by the U.S. and managed by the U.K.-based group Humanitarian Outcomes. While Gaza is the epicenter of this violence, the U.N. noted that threats to humanitarians extend to other conflict zones, including Afghanistan, Congo, South Sudan, Sudan, Ukraine, and Yemen, where incidents of violence, kidnapping, harassment, and arbitrary detention have been reported. Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas erupted on October 7, 2023, a total of 333 humanitarians have lost their lives, with the war itself causing more than 44,000 deaths in Gaza, according to local health officials.

 The rise of digital technologies has blurred the lines between work and travel, creating a new era where professionals with the flexibility to work remotely can explore the world while maintaining their careers. Digital nomadism, a trend that has gained global traction in recent years, is reshaping traditional work norms by enabling people to work from virtually anywhere. The uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic forced many people to reconsider their lifestyles. Economic pressures, especially on younger generations like Millennials and Gen Z, have spurred a shift toward more adaptable living, moving away from rigid, traditional work and lifestyle concepts. Amid this transformation, digital nomadism, often conceptualized as “working while traveling,” has gained prominence. Remote work has shifted from an advantage to a necessity for many professionals, driving them to seek environments that offer both career opportunities and personal freedom. More than 50 countries have responded to the growing trend by offering special visas for digital nomads, typically allowing stays of up to 12 months. A report from data reporting and analytics solutions provider Demand Sage said that digital nomadism, embraced by over 35 million workers worldwide, reflects the peak of technological innovation, changing societal values, and an entrepreneurial spirit. -Who are digital nomads? There are five types of digital nomads; freelance digital nomads; digital nomad business owners; salaried digital nomads; experimental digital nomads and armchair digital nomads. Fields such as graphic design, software development, digital marketing and copywriting are popular among digital nomads, with Americans representing nearly half (16.9 million) of the global digital nomad population. Ariana Nicole, an American digital nomad, describes her first travels to Spain and Mexico as a search for a place that felt like home. After starting her journey three years ago, Nicole’s passport now bears stamps from more than a dozen countries. Initially working as a hybrid IT consultant, she convinced her employer to adopt remote work. She eventually transitioned to freelance graphic design and content creation via social media. Having lived in nearly 15 countries, Nicole says her heart belongs to Colombia. While her decision-making process is spontaneous, she is guided by her interest in Spanish and recommendations from other travelers. Yet the allure of constant travel brings challenges. Nicole, like many digital nomads, has experienced “travel burnout,” a feeling of longing for stability and routine. While digital nomadism surged during the pandemic, Nicole notes that the trend has since slowed down. -Combining work and travel: possible, but challenging Papel Popov, who moved to Georgia with his wife in 2020 to work remotely for a financial tech startup in Russia, has fully embraced the digital nomad lifestyle. For the past four years, he has mostly lived in Türkiye, occasionally visiting other countries to maintain his nomadic lifestyle. Popov highlights how digital nomadism has allowed him to balance work and travel, emphasizing the importance of a reliable internet connection for productivity. Joining the global nomad community are Jess Parvin and Sergio Sala from the US, who are also living the digital nomad lifestyle. Parvin, a graphic designer, says freelancing gave her the freedom to travel while maintaining her work. Sala, a web designer with 10 years of experience, has traveled to over 50 countries, finding his way in digital nomad communities across the world. While digital nomadism offers flexibility, it also presents challenges such as loneliness and language barriers. Sala, who has lived in countries like Thailand and Mexico, highlights the difficulty of navigating visa processes and finding accommodation in new places. For Sala, Mexico’s diversity and charm hold special appeal, while Thailand remains a favorite due to its safety and vibrant digital nomad community. Digital nomads like Sala advise those considering the lifestyle to first secure a stable online income before taking the plunge into a nomadic career.

As the G20 Leaders’ Summit takes place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the World Health Organization (WHO) has called for decisive global action to eliminate cervical cancer, a preventable disease that claims the lives of over 350,000 women annually. In an op-ed published ahead of the summit, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the urgency and feasibility of eliminating cervical cancer, describing it as an historic opportunity. “Unlike most other cancers, almost all cervical cancer cases and deaths can be averted,” he wrote, highlighting the transformative impact of vaccines, diagnostics and treatments in combating the disease. Nearly all cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income countries, which account for 94% of cervical cancer deaths. While high-income nations are nearing elimination—defined as fewer than four cases per 100,000 women—many countries still lack equitable access to life-saving tools. The global burden is staggering, with 660,000 new cases diagnosed annually. These losses devastate families and communities, leaving children orphaned and plunging families into poverty. With scientific advances, achieving this target has become increasingly realistic. The introduction of a single-dose HPV vaccine, now adopted by 60 countries, is a game-changer in improving vaccination coverage, he said. Since the WHO’s 2018 call to action, more than 60 additional countries have included the HPV vaccine in their immunization programs, bringing the total to 144. Tedros stressed that achieving elimination depends on a strong political commitment and international cooperation to ensure equitable access to the tools needed. “Realizing this opportunity requires determined political leadership,” he said. The WHO hopes the G20 summit will galvanize support for expanded vaccination programs, enhanced diagnostic services and accessible treatments, particularly in resource-limited settings. Cervical cancer elimination would be a monumental public health achievement and a testament to the power of global solidarity.  “We have the tools and the opportunity,” said Tedros, adding “now is the time to act.”

 UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the G20 group of developed economies to lead global efforts to promote peace, advance climate action, and ensure equitable access to emerging technologies among other challenges. “I have come to Rio with a simple message: G20 leaders must lead. G20 countries – by definition – have tremendous economic clout.
 “They wield massive diplomatic leverage. They must use it to tackle key global problems,” Guterres said Sunday in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, according to UN News. Stressing the urgency for nations to accelerate efforts in addressing critical shared challenges, he called for intensified efforts to achieve peace in Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine, and Sudan. “Everywhere, peace requires actions grounded in the values of the UN Charter, the rule of law, and the principles of sovereignty, political independence and the territorial integrity of States,” Guterres said. Addressing financial issues, the UN secretary-general drew attention to the challenges faced by vulnerable countries, which are grappling with significant obstacles beyond their control. He criticized the current international financial system as “outdated, ineffective, and unfair,” noting that it fails to provide these nations with adequate support. Guterres stressed the need for ambitious reforms under the Pact for the Future to make the global financial system more inclusive and reflective of today’s economy.
 Key measures include increasing developing countries’ representation in financial institutions, boosting Multilateral Development Banks’ lending capacity, fostering inclusive tax cooperation, and pursuing innovative financing. He urged the G20 to take the lead in implementing these changes.
 Guterres expressed concern about the pace of the negotiations at COP29, urging G20 nations to agree on ambitious climate finance goals to support developing countries.
 Stressing the necessity for leadership and trust-building to drive high-ambition climate plans, he called on the G20 as major economies and emitters to lead by example. G20 nations account for 80% of global emissions and “must lead with national climate plans that follow the guidance they agreed to last year – 1.5 degrees aligned, whole of economy and all greenhouse gases,” he said.
 Noting that solutions are still possible despite the challenges, Guterres said: “We need to seize every opportunity to lead transformative action for a safer, more peaceful and sustainable world.” Leaders of the G20 group of largest economies will meet in Rio de Janeiro on Monday and Tuesday for their annual summit in Rio de Janeiro.

A new study reveals that over 800 million adults worldwide suffer from diabetes, with more than half of those over 30 not receiving any treatment. African countries are among the hardest hit, as non-communicable diseases like diabetes account for 17 million premature deaths each year, many of which occur before the age of 70. The report highlights that in sub-Saharan Africa, only about 5 to 10% of adults with diabetes receive any form of treatment. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has called for urgent action to address the growing diabetes epidemic. “We’ve seen a concerning rise in diabetes over the past three decades, driven by factors such as increased obesity, the marketing of unhealthy foods, physical inactivity, and economic challenges,” Dr. Ghebreyesus said. He stressed the importance of policies promoting healthy diets and physical activity, as well as strengthening healthcare systems to focus on prevention, early detection, and treatment. The WHO has set global targets for improving diabetes care by 2030, with a particular focus on increasing access to diagnosis and treatment across Africa, aiming to improve the quality of life and health outcomes for millions.

The tribes living in the Samburu region in northern Kenya are among the few that can still live according to their traditions. One of the most important aspects of the Samburu tribe’s survival is their livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats, and camels, from which they earn their livelihood. At a festival organized by the nomadic Maa community in the Samburu National Reserve, they performed cultural dances in their traditional clothing and jewelry.

Algerian-French Novelist Kamel Daoud Wins Prestigious Goncourt Prize for Houris Kamel Daoud, the Algerian-French novelist, was awarded the Goncourt Prize on Monday (Nov. 4) for his novel Houris, which explores the aftermath of Algeria’s civil war, the “Black Decade.” The book, which follows the journey of Aube, a survivor of the conflict, competed against three other finalists. However, Houris will not be published in Algeria due to laws prohibiting public discussions of the civil war. In a separate honor, French-Rwandan author Gaël Faye won the Prix Renaudot for his second novel Jacaranda.

French-Algerian writer Kamel Daoud has won the prestigious Goncourt Prize for his novel “Houris,” which explores Algeria’s civil war in the 1990s.

Low-income economies will struggle to fill climate finance gap, according to a report by the US-based global credit rating agency Moody’s. “Vast sums are needed for the world to shift to a low-carbon economy, build resilience, and adapt to the effects of climate change,” said the report released on Thursday. “Investment has risen rapidly since the 2015 Paris Agreement, but it will take a lot more to reach the goal of global net zero emissions by 2050.” The rating agency said wide investment gaps exist for both climate mitigation to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and adaptation in order to adjust to the effects of climate change. The agency estimates nations spending almost $2 trillion on clean energy this year, including low-carbon power, infrastructure, energy efficiency and electrification, adding there will be an estimated annual climate mitigation investment gap of nearly $2.4 trillion by 2030. “Adaptation investment has drawn much less funding, given its more limited commercial potential, and is well below estimated annual needs of about $400 billion, standing around $72 billion in 2022,” said the report. “This adds up to an annual climate investment gap of $2.7 trillion by 2030 – around 1.8% of global GDP – and exposes vulnerable communities to rising risks from climate change, particularly in emerging markets where investment needs are largest,” it added. Climate change also has far-reaching credit implications for economies and businesses through physical effects on livelihoods and infrastructure, or through the changes involved in reducing carbon emissions, according to Moody’s. It advised that early investment in clean energy can prevent big economic losses from climate change. “In addition to lives preserved, rapid climate spending could lead to higher growth and more revenue for governments globally over time,” said the report.