Nicola Sturgeon Celebrates Passing Driving Test at 53, Encourages Others to Embrace New Challenges

Nicola Sturgeon Celebrates Passing Driving Test At 53, Encourages Others To Embrace New Challenges

Former First Minister and Glasgow Southside MSP, Nicola Sturgeon, recently shared the exciting news of passing her driving test at the age of 53, highlighting that it is never too late in life to embark on new endeavours. Ms. Sturgeon expressed that the experience of learning to drive took her out of her comfort zone, but ultimately proved rewarding and empowering.

Having begun her driving lessons in April after stepping down as First Minister, Ms. Sturgeon successfully passed her theory test in June earlier this year. Taking to Instagram to announce her achievement, she credited her brilliant instructor, Andy MacFarlane of Caledonian Learner Driver Training, for his guidance and support throughout the learning process. She emphasized the importance of finding a trustworthy and comfortable learning environment, which Andy provided.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Sturgeon stated, “The whole experience has taken me well out of any notion of a comfort zone, but hopefully proves that it’s never too late in life to do something new.” Her accomplishment serves as an inspiration for others, demonstrating that age should not be a barrier to pursuing new challenges and acquiring new skills.

Ms. Sturgeon’s commitment to personal growth and embracing new opportunities aligns with her belief in lifelong learning and development. By sharing her journey of learning to drive, she aims to encourage individuals of all ages to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new experiences.

As a prominent political figure in Scotland, Ms. Sturgeon’s openness about her personal achievements resonates with many, reminding people that it is never too late to embark on new adventures or learn new skills. Her determination and willingness to challenge herself serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and the potential for personal growth at any stage of life.

With her driving test success, Nicola Sturgeon not only celebrates her own accomplishment but also sends a powerful message to individuals of all ages: seize the opportunity to embrace new challenges and discover the joy of learning something new, regardless of where you are in life’s journey.

Abdallah Sima Confident Rangers Will Secure Victory Against Sparta Prague in Europa League Clash

Abdallah Sima Confident Rangers Will Secure Victory Against Sparta Prague In Europa League Clash

Rangers forward Abdallah Sima is optimistic about his team’s chances as they prepare to face Sparta Prague in a crucial Europa League match, aiming to bounce back from their recent disappointing loss. The Light Blues suffered a surprising 2-1 defeat in their previous European outing against Aris Limassol. However, with the arrival of new manager Philippe Clement and an impressive start to his tenure, Rangers are determined to secure a win on the road.

Under the temporary leadership of Steven Davis and his team following Michael Beale’s departure, Rangers stumbled against Aris Limassol. But Clement’s appointment sparked an immediate turnaround, as the Ibrox side claimed an emphatic 4-0 victory over Hibernian in their domestic league.

During the win over Hibs, Abdallah Sima showcased his goal-scoring prowess by netting twice, while Nicolas Raskin and Cyriel Dessers also found the back of the net. Buoyed by this triumph, Rangers now travel to the Czech Republic with confidence riding high. Sima, who previously faced Sparta Prague during his time at Slavia Prague before joining Brighton on loan, is acquainted with their upcoming opponents.

Acknowledging the challenge that awaits them, Sima recognizes the quality within the Rangers squad, instilling belief that they can secure a vital three points on enemy territory. Despite the potential reception he may receive from the home crowd due to his past club affiliations, the 22-year-old is prepared to give his all to ensure victory for his team.

Sima expressed, “I know them well from my time in the Czech Republic and it will be a hard game for us. The quality we have here makes me think we can beat them over there. That’s what I believe.”

With their sights set on progressing to the knockout stages of the Europa League, Rangers will rely on their collective abilities and the newfound momentum under Clement’s guidance. As the team prepares to face Sparta Prague, they aim to demonstrate their capabilities, overcome the challenge, and secure a crucial victory on the road.

Turtle Bay Brings a Taste of the Caribbean to Glasgow with New Restaurant Opening

Turtle Bay Brings A Taste Of The Caribbean To Glasgow With New Restaurant Opening

Food enthusiasts in Scotland are in for a treat as the popular restaurant brand, Turtle Bay, prepares to open its first establishment in Glasgow later this year. Renowned for its vibrant island bars, Caribbean-inspired flavours, and refreshing cocktails, Turtle Bay’s new Scottish restaurant will be located on St Vincent Street, at the corner of Hope Street.

To celebrate the upcoming opening, Turtle Bay has announced a series of ticketed events, offering locals and visitors in Glasgow the opportunity to experience Caribbean hospitality and savour delicious food, completely free of charge. The events, featuring lunch and dinner dishes, will span across three days, and interested guests can register through the Bay Club App for a chance to win tickets. While the exact dates are yet to be confirmed, Turtle Bay promises to release more information about the ticketed events soon.

Originally established in Bristol, Turtle Bay recently celebrated the launch of its 50th site in Camden, with the new Glasgow location set to become the 52nd, following the opening of another restaurant in Lincoln next month.

The Glasgow restaurant will have late opening hours and will provide seating for over 200 guests indoors, along with outdoor seating for nearly 40 patrons. Diners will have the opportunity to watch skilled chefs prepare their dishes in the open kitchen, complete with a jerk pit grill, while bartenders work their magic at the island bar.

Turtle Bay’s all-day food menu will feature a BBQ Jerk Pit section, offering smoky and succulent meats such as half jerk chicken and rum BBQ ribs. Traditional Caribbean cuisine will be showcased through dishes like curry goat and Kingston fried chicken, providing a tantalizing taste of the West Indies.

The restaurant’s team also revealed that their Island-inspired brunch menu, including the “Big Kingston Grilldown” featuring jerk bacon, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, curried chickpeas, grilled roti, and eggs, will provide delicious options for all-day dining. Additionally, sample platters will allow guests to share the good times with a variety of starters, including jerk pit wings, crispy chili squid, pulled chicken doubles, and cheesy jerk fries.

Turtle Bay emphasized that their trademark rum cocktails, such as the classic Passion Rum Punch or Rum Runner, along with more exotic options like the Raspberry Reggae, will transport guests straight to the beach. Those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages can enjoy equally exciting mocktails.

Guests at Turtle Bay will have the opportunity to enjoy the restaurant’s 2-4-1 Happy Hour, featuring rum-based cocktails and pints of Red Stripe, available all day from Sunday to Thursday.

Moreover, fans of flavour can indulge in the restaurant’s famous Boozy Brunch, a two-hour Caribbean cocktail and brunching experience accompanied by tropical drinks and lively reggae beats.

Gemma Lewis, Operations Manager at Turtle Bay, expressed excitement about the brand’s expansion into Scotland, stating, “We are thrilled to announce that Turtle Bay will be opening in Scotland for the first time later this year. A milestone moment for us, we can’t wait to bring a taste of the Caribbean to Glasgow and look forward to introducing our unique soulful flavours and reggae good times to the Scottish market.”

Turtle Bay’s arrival in Glasgow will also create numerous employment opportunities for the local community, with plans to recruit 60 team members for a range of roles.

Further details about the opening will be shared soon, and in the meantime, fans can sign up for the Bay Club App to have a chance to win tickets to the opening events and gain exclusive access to updates, offers, and advance bookings before the official opening.

Glasgow Design Studio Collaborates with Nigerian Artist Lemi Ghariokwu to Create Vibrant Craft Beer Project

Glasgow Design Studio Collaborates With Nigerian Artist Lemi Ghariokwu To Create Vibrant Craft Beer Project

Pim-Pam, a creative design studio based in Glasgow, has embarked on an exciting new venture with Nigeria’s first craft brewery, Bature Brewery, by incorporating the renowned artwork of international artist Lemi Ghariokwu into their innovative design project.

The aim of the collaboration is to honour West Africa’s rich and colourful heritage while promoting the region’s emerging craft beer movement.

Having worked closely with Bature Brewery for several years, Pim-Pam’s award-winning creative team has gained global recognition for their contributions to the brewery’s branding and beer can designs. Their creations, such as the Lagos Lager, Founders Pale Ale, and Black Gold Stout, have recently received acclaim, with the latter winning Gold at the prestigious World Beer Awards.

Given that craft brewing is still in its early stages in Nigeria, Pim-Pam has always sought partnerships with Nigerian artists to establish a connection with the brewery’s audience. Their latest collaboration is with Lagos-based Lemi Ghariokwu, renowned for his album artwork designs for Fela Kuti, the ground-breaking pioneer of the Afrobeat genre.

Luke McCarthy, founder and creative director of Pim-Pam, explained the motivation behind their artistic collaborations, stating, “Lagos is brimming with talent, culture, and creativity. With the brewery’s commitment to producing the best-tasting beers using locally-sourced ingredients, we have consistently sought to harness that same energy by collaborating with Nigerian artists and creatives.”

McCarthy further emphasized the importance of understanding the target audience when launching brands in the West African market. He highlighted the uniqueness of Lagos and the need for a tailored approach to resonate with consumers. Recognizing the cult following of the craft beer movement in West Africa, Pim-Pam believes that collaboration and storytelling, through partnerships with artists, creatives, and musicians, can celebrate Nigerian talent while expanding the reach of Bature Brewery’s beers and cultivating brand advocates.

As part of Bature Brewery’s rapid expansion plans over the next year, Pim-Pam forged a partnership with Lemi Ghariokwu. Together, they created the artwork for Bature’s new beer, Shakara, and developed a captivating brand identity for the brewery’s Felabration, an annual music and art festival commemorating the life and legacy of the iconic Fela Kuti.

Shakara, named after one of Fela Kuti’s songs, is a vibrant pink beer infused with popular Nigerian botanical zobo, boasting flavors of strawberry and pomegranate. The beer serves as a fitting tribute to the lively and colourful culture of Lagos, the brewery’s hometown.

Working closely with Lemi Ghariokwu, Pim-Pam collaborated on the design of the artwork, packaging, and related materials for Shakara. The packaging design draws inspiration from the colours and themes prevalent throughout Lemi’s illustrious career, aligning harmoniously with the product, its essence, and the beer’s vibrant hue.

Sub-Saharan Migrants Flock to Spanish Islands, Straining Resources

Sub Saharan Migrants Flock To Spanish Islands, Straining Resources

In a dramatic increase highlighting the ongoing migration crisis, a total of 1,457 migrants have successfully reached the Spanish islands off the western African coast between Friday night and Sunday morning, according to authorities. The surge in arrivals, mainly hailing from sub-Saharan Africa, has contributed to the escalating numbers of migrants making the perilous journey.

On Saturday alone, 321 individuals arrived on the island of El Hierro aboard a single vessel, surpassing the previous record set on October 3 with 280 migrants. Spanish broadcaster TVE shared footage of a vibrant and overcrowded vessel arriving at the port, filled with passengers who were visibly relieved and waving joyfully.

The latest data from Spain’s interior ministry reveals that a staggering 23,537 migrants have reached the Canaries between January 1 and October 15. The first half of this month witnessed 8,561 arrivals, marking a record for a fortnight since the previous migration crisis in 2006.

During a recent visit to the archipelago, Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska attributed the surge in numbers to political instability in the Sahel region. As controls have been tightened in the Mediterranean, the Canaries route has become increasingly favoured by migrants. However, the treacherous journey takes its toll, with numerous unseaworthy vessels failing to reach the shore as desperate migrants risk their lives on the long and dangerous crossing from Morocco or Western Sahara, located approximately 100 kilometres (60 miles) away.

In a bid to reach Europe, some migrants even embark on even riskier routes from Mauritania, Senegal, and Gambia, covering a distance of around 1,000 kilometres. The continuous influx of migrants has placed immense pressure on both Spain and the European Union to address the humanitarian, logistical, and legal challenges posed by the migration crisis in the Canary Islands.

 

Source: France24

National Epidemiologist Warns of Prolonged Dengue Outbreak in Jamaica

National Epidemiologist Warns Of Prolonged Dengue Outbreak In Jamaica

In a concerning update, National Epidemiologist Dr. Karen Webster-Kerr has revealed that Jamaica is expected to experience a persistent surge in dengue virus cases for the next few months. Dr. Webster-Kerr predicts that the country will record over 1,000 confirmed, suspected, and presumed cases of dengue each month until the first quarter of the following year. Furthermore, she warns that this number could potentially rise to at least 1,400 cases per month.

During an interview on Radio Jamaica’s Hotline, Dr. Webster-Kerr emphasised that the high number of cases is likely to continue until around March, after which the incidence should gradually decrease to a range of 500 to 600 cases per month. The situation is particularly alarming as the data for September alone shows 1,409 confirmed, suspected, and presumed dengue cases, with an additional 240 cases reported so far this month.

The Ministry of Health & Wellness has reported 434 confirmed cases of the disease as of Wednesday, based on approximately 2,107 suspected and presumed samples. Unfortunately, this outbreak has also resulted in seven dengue-related deaths, with five classified as suspected and two confirmed cases.

The authorities are working diligently to address the situation and implement necessary measures to control the spread of the virus. Dr. Webster-Kerr urges the public to remain vigilant and take preventive measures such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites and practising personal protection against mosquito bites.

The Ministry of Health & Wellness continues to monitor the situation closely and provide guidance to healthcare facilities and communities across the country. Efforts are being made to raise awareness about dengue prevention and ensure timely diagnosis and treatment for affected individuals.

As the dengue outbreak persists, it is crucial for the public to stay informed, cooperate with health authorities, and prioritise proactive measures to minimise the impact of the virus on individuals and communities in Jamaica.

 

Source: Radio Jamaica News

Kenyan Residents Demand Justice and Compensation as British Army Faces Criticism for Devastating Fire

Kenya Britain Military Justice

In a significant development, a Kenyan court has ruled that the British Army must provide compensation for a massive fire that engulfed over 4,800 hectares of land during a military exercise conducted by the British Army Training Unit in Kenya (BATUK). However, residents in central Kenya are expressing their frustration over the lack of compensation two and a half years after the incident, just days before the anticipated visit of King Charles III.

The affected residents, through their lawyer Kelvin Kubai, voiced their concerns at a press conference, calling attention to the absence of compensation for the victims. Kubai read an “open letter to the British government” on behalf of the 7,000 plaintiffs, accusing the British Army of employing tactics reminiscent of colonial times to evade responsibility for the damage caused. The victims are seeking compensation not only for the environmental destruction but also for medical issues, including breathing difficulties and permanent eyesight problems resulting from the fire.

The letter highlighted the plight of farmers who have been unable to recover their crops and livestock lost in the devastating blaze. It criticized the intergovernmental liaison committee (IGLC), responsible for managing the compensation, for demanding further evidence of the damages suffered. The victims perceive this as an insult, arguing that the British Army destroyed the Kenyan environment and is now refusing to compensate them for their losses.

Expressing their frustration, the victims’ letter underscored the need for justice and urged the British government, as well as King Charles III, to treat Kenya as an independent nation and halt the colonial-era mindset. At the conclusion of the press conference, a group of protesters briefly disrupted traffic, chanting slogans such as “we want our money” and “the British must go.”

It is worth noting that King Charles III and Queen Camilla are scheduled to visit Kenya from October 31 to November 3. This will be King Charles’s first trip to a Commonwealth country since assuming the throne last year. While the royal visit includes Nairobi and the port city of Mombasa, the town of Nanyuki, where the BATUK is located, is not on the itinerary.

The BATUK military base has long played a significant role in the local economy, but it has also been involved in several controversies in the area. One notable case is the unsolved death of Agnes Wanjiru in 2012, who was reportedly last seen with British soldiers at a hotel in Nanyuki before her body was found in a septic tank. The British government has pledged cooperation with the Kenyan investigation, although no public outcomes have been disclosed thus far.

Kelvin Kiptum, Kenya’s Rising Marathon Star Breaks World Record and Captivates the World

Kelvin Kiptum, Kenya's Rising Marathon Star Breaks World Record And Captivates The World

In 2018, when Kelvin Kiptum participated in his first major local competition, he had to rely on borrowed running shoes due to financial constraints. Fast forward to this year’s Chicago marathon, where he achieved a breathtaking world record of two hours and 35 seconds, and Kiptum was now sporting the latest Nike ‘super-shoes,’ which some credit for his remarkable feat.

Kiptum’s journey to becoming a global marathon icon is as astonishing as the strides he makes on the track. The 23-year-old, nominated for the title of Men’s World Athlete of the Year by the governing body World Athletics, shared his sentiments with BBC Sport Africa, saying, “It has been a long journey for me through my career. I have been trying so hard to pursue this dream to run a world record. It has come true, and I am really happy. My life has now changed.”

Upon his return to Kenya, Kiptum was given a hero’s welcome, marking his newfound celebrity status. Celebrations spanned two days, taking place in both the capital, Nairobi, and his hometown in the south-west of the country.

The London Marathon champion revealed that he contemplated cancelling his trip to Chicago due to health issues, including a groin injury and malaria. However, his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, a retired Rwandese runner, persuaded him to recover for a few days and continue training.

Kiptum and his coach’s relationship began in 2018, but they first crossed paths when Kiptum was a young boy. Hakizimana reminisced, “I knew him when he was a little boy, herding livestock barefooted. It was in 2009, I was training near his father’s farm, he’d come kicking at my heels, and I would chase him away. Now, I am grateful to him for his achievement.”

Despite his remarkable success, just a year ago, Kiptum had never run a marathon. He is part of a new wave of Kenyan athletes who chose to start their careers on the road, diverging from the traditional track-based approach. Kiptum attributed this decision to financial limitations, saying, “I had no money to travel to track sessions, so I started training with road-running guys – and that’s how I got into marathon.”

Hakizimana noted that Kiptum was initially hesitant about running a marathon, preferring shorter half-marathons. However, he eventually embraced the 42-kilometer distance, leading to his achievements in Valencia, London, and Chicago.

While Kenya boasts several world-class marathon runners, including the legendary Eliud Kipchoge, Kiptum’s unique racing style sets him apart. Athletics commentator Martin Keino praised Kiptum’s fearlessness and his ability to attack the second half of the marathon with unmatched determination.

 

Source: BBC

Chad’s Defence Minister and Government Official Resign Amidst Sex Tape Scandal

Chad's Defence Minister And Government Official Resign Amidst Sex Tape Scandal

In an unprecedented turn of events, Chad’s defence minister and the government’s general secretary have tendered their resignations following the widespread circulation of two separate sex tapes allegedly involving them. The scandal has sent shockwaves through the nation, as sex scandals are relatively uncommon in Chad, a predominantly Muslim country with conservative social norms.

The resignations of Defence Minister Daoud Yaya Brahim and General Secretary Haliki Choua Mahamat were accepted by Prime Minister Saleh Kebzabo, according to a statement issued by Kebzabo’s spokesperson. However, no further details were provided regarding the circumstances surrounding their departure from their respective positions.

The explicit videos, which surfaced on social media platforms on Sunday and Monday, purportedly depicted the two officials engaging in intimate acts with other individuals. Reuters, unable to independently verify the authenticity of the material, was also unable to reach Brahim or Mahamat for comment at the time of reporting.

The scandal has captivated public attention in Chad, where such incidents are rare, given the country’s conservative societal values. The revelation of the alleged involvement of high-ranking government officials in such compromising situations has sparked widespread public debate and raised questions about the moral integrity of those in positions of power.

The resignations of Brahim and Mahamat mark a significant development in the aftermath of the scandal, as Chad’s government seeks to address the fallout and restore public confidence. The swift actions taken by Prime Minister Kebzabo demonstrate the administration’s commitment to accountability and maintaining ethical standards within the government.

As Chad grapples with the aftermath of this scandal, the nation’s political landscape is likely to witness further changes in the coming days. The resignation of key government figures underscores the serious implications of the controversy and serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding ethical conduct among public officials.

The repercussions of this sex tape scandal are expected to reverberate throughout Chad, prompting a broader conversation about the boundaries of personal and professional behavior in the country’s political sphere. The incident serves as a stark reminder that public figures are subject to scrutiny and accountability, even in a society with conservative social mores.

Moving forward, Chad faces the task of rebuilding public trust and ensuring that individuals appointed to important positions exhibit the highest standards of integrity. The scandal serves as a wake-up call for the nation’s political leaders to reinforce ethical guidelines and foster an environment of transparency and responsibility within the government.

 

Source: Reuters

France and Nigeria Launch Joint Operation to Combat Piracy and Trafficking in Gulf of Guinea

France And Nigeria Launch Joint Operation To Combat Piracy And Trafficking In Gulf Of Guinea

France and Nigeria have recently joined forces in a collaborative effort to tackle the persistent issues of piracy and trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea. This strategic partnership aims to enhance maritime security in the region and protect the interests of both nations.

In a show of strength, the French carrier Mistral, accompanied by five Nigerian navy ships, embarked on a four-month mission to safeguard the Gulf of Guinea from illicit activities. The Mistral, a naval vessel continuously deployed by the French since 1990, serves as a vital asset in combating maritime threats.

Captain Olivier Roussille, Commander of the Mistral, highlighted the importance of the mission, stating, “The heart of our mission is maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, where France has both interests and strong partners, including Nigeria.” The collaboration between France and Nigeria signifies their shared commitment to maintaining stability and ensuring the safety of the region’s waters.

For the Nigerian Navy, these joint naval exercises align with their dedication to the Yaoundé Protocol. Signed in 2013 by 25 West and Central African governments, as well as regional blocs ECOWAS and ECCAS, the protocol was designed to effectively address illicit activities in the Gulf of Guinea. Over the past decade, the implementation of the protocol has resulted in a notable reduction in piracy and armed robbery incidents.

Despite these achievements, Nigeria continues to face security threats such as crude oil theft and unlawful oil bunkering. To counter these challenges, the Nigerian Navy emphasizes the necessity of ongoing joint drills to combat piracy and maintain a secure maritime environment.

The collaborative efforts of France and Nigeria in this joint operation signify a significant step forward in the fight against piracy and trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea. By combining their resources, expertise, and strong partnership, the two nations aim to further improve maritime security and protect the economic interests of the region.

France And Nigeria Launch Joint Operation To Combat Piracy And Trafficking In Gulf Of Guinea (2)