Militia Commander Arrested for Tourist Murders in Uganda Faces Charges for School Massacre

Militia Commander Arrested For Tourist Murders In Uganda Faces Charges For School Massacre

In a significant development, a militia commander belonging to the ADF (Allied Democratic Forces) has been arrested for the brutal murder of two foreign tourists in Uganda. The commander, identified as Abdul Rashid Kyoto, also known as Njovu, now faces additional charges related to a school massacre that took place in June. This revelation was made by a Ugandan general on Friday, shedding light on the commander’s alleged involvement in multiple heinous acts.

The arrest of Kyoto and the demise of six other members of the commando group were announced by the Ugandan army on Thursday. These individuals were accused of carrying out the shocking killings of a British and a South African honeymooner, as well as their guide, in Queen Elizabeth Park on October 17.

The ADF rebels, known for their affiliation with the jihadist group Islamic State, have faced previous allegations by Ugandan authorities for their involvement in attacks. These include the assault on a school in Mpondwe on June 17, resulting in the tragic deaths of 42 people. Another attack occurred on October 28 in Kasindi, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), claiming the lives of four individuals, including two Ugandan soldiers.

General Dick Olum, who leads the anti-ADF operation in the DRC, emphasised the connection between these three attacks and Kyoto’s command. “It was the same Njovu, alias Abdul Rashid Kyoto, who commanded these attacks and the attack on the two tourists and their guide,” stated General Olum during an interview with AFP. He further revealed that substantial information regarding the ADF’s activities and the leaders behind these violent missions has been gathered.

The capture of Kyoto brings a sense of reassurance to both Ugandans and tourists alike, assuring them of ongoing operations aimed at ensuring safety and defeating the ADF. The murders of the two tourists in one of Uganda’s renowned parks had raised concerns within the tourism sector, which significantly contributes to the country’s GDP.

Originally a rebel group with a Muslim majority in Uganda, the ADF expanded its operations to the eastern part of the DRC during the 1990s. In 2019, they pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, which claims responsibility for certain actions conducted by the ADF and presents them as its “Central African Province” (Iscap).

The ADF has been accused of perpetrating massacres of thousands of civilians in the DRC in recent years, in addition to carrying out jihadist attacks on Ugandan soil. In response to these activities, a Ugandan court handed down sentences ranging from seven to ten years of imprisonment to seven individuals, including a 75-year-old man, for their involvement with the ADF. The convicts pleaded guilty to charges of belonging to a “terrorist organisation,” financing terrorism, and trafficking children for recruitment into the ADF. Disturbingly, one of them admitted to recruiting his own children into the ADF and committing acts of rape.

The arrest of the ADF militia commander, along with the prosecution of individuals linked to the group, represents a significant step in combating the threat posed by the ADF and safeguarding the security and well-being of Ugandans and visitors to the country.

 

Source: Africa News

Remains of Mudan Warriors to be Repatriated from Edinburgh University to Taiwan

In a significant step towards reconciliation, a militia commander responsible for the brutal murder of two foreign tourists in Uganda now faces charges related to a school massacre, according to a statement made by a Ugandan general on Friday.

The commander, identified as Abdul Rashid Kyoto, also known as Njovu, was apprehended on Tuesday, along with six other members of the commando group accused of carrying out the shocking killings of a British and a South African honeymooner, as well as their guide, in Queen Elizabeth Park on October 17. However, the revelations now connect Kyoto to a school massacre that took place in June, further highlighting the extent of his alleged crimes.

The ADF rebels, affiliated with the jihadist group Islamic State, have previously faced accusations from Ugandan authorities for their involvement in heinous attacks. These include an assault on a school in the western town of Mpondwe on June 17, resulting in the tragic loss of 42 lives. Another attack occurred on October 28 in Kasindi, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), claiming the lives of four individuals, including two Ugandan soldiers.

General Dick Olum, who leads the anti-ADF operation in the DRC, emphasised the correlation between these three attacks and Kyoto’s command. “It was the same Njovu, alias Abdul Rashid Kyoto, who commanded these attacks and the attack on the two tourists and their guide,” stated General Olum. He further expressed confidence in the wealth of information gathered on the ADF and the leaders responsible for orchestrating these violent acts.

The arrest of Kyoto is expected to bring a sense of reassurance to both Ugandans and tourists, underscoring the ongoing operations aimed at ensuring safety and defeating the ADF. The murders of the two tourists in one of Uganda’s renowned parks had raised concerns within the tourism sector, which significantly contributes to the country’s GDP.

The ADF, originally a rebel group with a Muslim majority in Uganda, expanded its operations to the eastern part of the DRC during the 1990s. In 2019, they pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, which claims responsibility for certain actions conducted by the ADF and presents them as its “Central African Province” (Iscap).

Efforts to address the threat posed by the ADF and provide justice for the victims have led to the recent sentencing of seven individuals in a Ugandan court. These individuals, including a 75-year-old man, pleaded guilty to charges of belonging to a “terrorist organisation,” financing terrorism, and trafficking children for recruitment into the ADF. Shockingly, one of them also admitted to recruiting his own children into the ADF and committing acts of rape.

The arrest of the ADF militia commander, along with the prosecution of individuals linked to the group, represents a significant step in combating the threat posed by the ADF and safeguarding the security and well-being of Ugandans and visitors to the country.

 

Source: Edinburgh Live

Rwanda President Kagame Declares Visa-Free Entry for All Africans

Rwanda President Kagame Declares Visa Free Entry For All Africans

In a groundbreaking announcement, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has revealed that the country will now allow visa-free entry for all African nationals. This progressive move aims to enhance the free movement of people and foster increased trade within the continent.

During his address at the 23rd Global Summit of the World Travel and Tourism Council, President Kagame expressed his belief that Africans hold the key to the future of global tourism. He stated, “Any African can get on a plane to Rwanda whenever they wish, and they will not pay a thing to enter our country.”

Rwanda joins the ranks of Benin, Gambia, and Seychelles as the fourth African nation to implement such a policy. The announcement comes on the heels of Kenya’s President William Ruto’s recent declaration to permit visa-free travel for all Africans by December 31, further emphasizing the growing momentum towards open borders within the region.

President Ruto, speaking at an international summit in the Republic of Congo, highlighted the detrimental effects of visa restrictions on African countries. He emphasized that such limitations hinder the mobility of businesspeople and entrepreneurs, ultimately resulting in collective loss for the continent.

The decision by Rwanda and Kenya to open their doors to visa-free travel for Africans signifies a significant step towards fostering greater continental unity and economic integration. As more nations embrace this progressive approach, it is expected to pave the way for increased tourism, trade, and cultural exchange within Africa, ultimately benefiting the entire continent.

Meta Introduces Subscription Fees for European Users in Response to Data Privacy Regulations

Meta Introduces Subscription Fees For European Users In Response To Data Privacy Regulations

Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is rolling out monthly subscription fees for users in Europe on its social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram. This strategic move comes as a response to new European Union regulations aimed at curbing Meta’s data collection practices for personalised advertisements.

The subscription service, named Meta+, offers an ad-free experience on both platforms along with exclusive content. Pricing for the service is set at €9.99 ($10.60) per month for web users and €12.99 ($13.79) for mobile app users. Initially, a single subscription covers all linked accounts. However, starting from March 2024, additional accounts will incur an additional €6 ($6.37) monthly fee for web and €8 ($8.49) for mobile.

This step aligns with the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which imposes requirements for user consent in personalised ad data processing. In July, the EU’s Court of Justice ruled that Meta had violated GDPR by transferring user data from Europe to the US without adequate protections. Consequently, Meta stopped using user data for personalised ads in Europe unless explicitly authorised by users.

Meta will continue to offer ad-supported versions of Facebook and Instagram in Europe. Users will have the choice to opt-in to receive personalised ads; otherwise, they will be presented with generic, non-targeted advertisements. Users will also have the flexibility to adjust their settings at any time to influence the types of ads they receive and the data used for targeting.

The subscription service will be launched in Europe in November 2023. Users can sign up for Meta+ either through their Facebook or Instagram accounts or via a dedicated website. Meta plans to closely evaluate user feedback and performance, with the possibility of expanding the subscription service to other regions in the future.

Kenya’s Deployment of International Force to Restore Peace in Haiti Faces Judicial Setback

Kenya's Deployment Of International Force To Restore Peace In Haiti Faces Judicial Setback

In a blow to Kenya’s plans to lead a multinational international force in Haiti, the country’s High Court has issued an extension on a temporary order, preventing the government from deploying hundreds of police officers to the French-speaking Caribbean Community (Caricom) nation. The United Nations Security Council had previously authorised the deployment through a resolution co-drafted by the United States and Ecuador, granting a one-year mandate with a review after nine months.

The Kenyan National Assembly has yet to schedule a debate regarding the motion to deploy the contingent, which is expected to consist of approximately 1,000 police officers. Despite this, several Caribbean Community countries have expressed their willingness to participate in the initiative.

However, the court order, initiated by former presidential candidate Ekuru Aukot on October 9, temporarily halted the deployment plan. Aukot argued that the law permitting the president to deploy Kenyan forces conflicted with constitutional articles. The Kenyan government has affirmed its commitment to seek parliamentary approval before the officers are dispatched.

“The court has extended the interim orders stopping the deployment of Kenya police to Haiti until the petition is determined,” stated Aukot, noting that the original order expired on Tuesday. The case is set to continue on November 9.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the United Nations Special Representative in Haiti, María Isabel Salvador, addressed the Security Council on Monday, emphasizing the deteriorating security conditions in the country due to escalating gang violence. She stressed the significance of holding elections as a means to establish sustainable rule of law and restore democratic institutions in Haiti.

Salvador underlined, “Elections are the only path and the only imperative to restore democratic institutions in Haiti. Only democracy and the rule of law can form the basis from which Haiti can progress towards development and growth.”

The prevalence of rampant gang violence, predominantly concentrated in the capital city of Port-au-Prince, exacerbates the already dire situation in Haiti, where nearly half of the population is dependent on humanitarian aid. Additionally, the country has endured a series of challenges in recent years, including a cholera epidemic, earthquakes, cyclones, and the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021.

Source: VOA Africa

Kenya Raises Passenger Fares on Chinese-Built Railway Amid Debt Repayment Challenges and Fuel Price Hike

Kenya Raises Passenger Fares On Chinese Built Railway Amid Debt Repayment Challenges And Fuel Price Hike

In response to mounting debt obligations to Beijing and other lenders, as well as the surge in fuel prices, Kenya has announced a significant increase in passenger fares for the Chinese-built Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). The state-owned Kenya Railways revealed that the journey between Mombasa and Nairobi, spanning 470 kilometers (290 miles), will now cost $30 in first class, a rise from $19, while economy class fares will increase to $10 from $6.

Kenya Railways justified the fare hike by attributing it to the global escalation in fuel prices, which has impacted their operational costs. The decision comes shortly after Kenya’s central bank governor, Kamau Thugge, acknowledged that the Kenyan shilling had been overvalued by 25% for years, resulting in an artificially strong exchange rate.

President William Ruto’s recent visit to China, where he sought a $1 billion loan for unfinished infrastructure projects, raised eyebrows since Kenya’s total debt has reached a record $70 billion. Despite the financial challenges, Ruto pursued further funding. The revised train fares are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2024, affecting not only the popular commuter rail service in Nairobi but also the Kisumu and Nanyuki safari trains, known for attracting numerous tourists annually.

The SGR, constructed at a cost of $4.7 billion financed by Chinese banks, commenced operations in 2017. However, it has encountered difficulties in generating sufficient cargo service demand. According to economist Aly-Khan Satchu, the viability of the Kenya SGR hinges on expanding its cross-border reach to ensure financial sustainability. Satchu suggested that connecting Uganda’s oil resources to the sea and facilitating transportation of minerals from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could enhance the project’s prospects.

Kenya’s escalating public debt has prompted President Ruto to implement stringent austerity measures, including travel restrictions and budget cuts exceeding 10% for all government ministries. Nevertheless, Ruto has faced criticism from Kenyans due to his extensive foreign trips, numbering 38 since assuming office in September 2022, surpassing the travel records of his four predecessors during their initial year in power.

 

Source: AP

Edinburgh Academic Becomes UK’s First Deaf Professor in Deaf Studies

Edinburgh Academic Becomes Uk's First Deaf Professor In Deaf Studies

In a groundbreaking achievement, Annelies Kusters, a scholar at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, has made history by becoming the first deaf professor in the United Kingdom to specialise in Deaf Studies. With nearly two decades of research on deaf communities worldwide, Prof. Kusters’ promotion in the Department of Languages and Intercultural Studies establishes her as a leading authority in her field.

Expressing gratitude for the deaf lecturers and scholars who mentored her, Prof. Kusters emphasised her commitment to supporting and empowering future generations. Having received her education from deaf lecturers in Bristol, she now stands as the first academic in the UK to attain the rank of full professor in her area of expertise.

While Europe and the United States have already seen deaf professors in Deaf Studies and Sign Language Studies, the UK has now caught up with Prof. Kusters’ pioneering achievement. Deaf Studies, a discipline that has existed since the 1970s, focuses on understanding the lives of deaf and hearing-impaired individuals across the globe.

Prof. Kusters’ research has taken her to various countries, including Ghana, India, Surinam, Brazil, Kenya, Italy, Denmark, and France. Her interests lie in observing deaf people in their daily lives, exploring their modes of communication, and understanding their social interactions.

Aside from her academic pursuits, Prof. Kusters recently participated in a cabaret show at The Stand comedy club in Edinburgh. While using British Sign Language (BSL), she presented to the audience with the assistance of a translator conveying her message in verbal English.

Originally from Belgium, Prof. Kusters obtained her master’s degree from the University of Leuven before pursuing her Ph.D. in Deaf Studies at the University of Bristol. At Heriot-Watt, she is especially passionate about supporting other deaf scholars in their careers and leads a group called ‘Signs@HWU,’ which focuses on Deaf Studies, sign linguistics, and sign language interpreting studies within the university.

Prof. Kusters assumes various responsibilities at Heriot-Watt, including her role as co-director of engagement in the School of Social Sciences. She acknowledges the challenges of balancing her professional life with personal responsibilities, as she cares for her family with two children.

Prof. Jemina Napier, chair of intercultural communication at Heriot-Watt University, expressed immense pride in having the UK’s first deaf full professor. Recognising the significance of this milestone, Prof. Napier remarked that deaf scholars should have been leading in this field long ago. Prof. Kusters herself acknowledged the overdue nature of her achievement, emphasising that many of her deaf peers, including those who mentored her, could have occupied this pioneering position.

Prof. Kusters’ groundbreaking accomplishment not only marks a significant step forward for Deaf Studies in the UK but also serves as an inspiration for deaf academics around the world, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and representation in academic disciplines.

Inaugural The Black Scottish Awards Unveil Outstanding Winners

The Black Scottish Awards 2023 (4)

The Black Scottish Awards stands as a vibrant celebration of excellence within Scotland’s Black community. This first of its kind event serves as a platform to recognise and honour outstanding individuals and organisations, united in their commitment to breaking down barriers and championing excellence.

The Black Scottish Awards boasts a rich tapestry of diverse categories, carefully curated to spotlight and applaud excellence spanning various sectors. The meticulous process of selecting finalists for these categories ensures that only the most deserving individuals and organisations are celebrated, underlining the Awards’ commitment to recognising the true champions of excellence in our nation.

Amidst a backdrop of excitement and palpable anticipation, the inaugural The Black Scottish Awards 2023 unfolded into a night of jubilant celebration and unity, guided by the esteemed hosts, Asabea Owusu and Tosin Ogunlesi.

The Black Scottish Awards 2023 commenced with an exhilarating and electrifying performance by Chinyanta, whose magnetic presence and soul-stirring performance ignited the event’s atmosphere. As she graced the stage, a wave of energy and inspiration surged through the audience, painting the night with vivid colours and setting the scene for an extraordinary evening.

The Black Scottish Awards 2023 (5)

But the magic didn’t end there. The enchanting melodies of the GQS Band further enriched the evening, serenading the audience with a live music experience that was nothing short of amazing.

The Black Scottish Awards witnessed a truly heartwarming moment as 10-year-old Barakel Nmeholam took the stage. Her moving speech, in which she courageously shared the harrowing journey of escaping the war in Ukraine, struck a chord with everyone in the room. As she recounted her family’s journey to Scotland, a country that provided refuge and a reason to smile again, the entire audience was moved to their feet, giving young Barakel a well-deserved standing ovation. Her story exemplified the spirit of unity and resilience that The Black Scottish Awards celebrate.

The Black Scottish Awards 2023 (2)

In another remarkable highlight, the Awards presented Ms. Mukami McCrum MBE with the prestigious Chair’s Lifetime Recognition Award. Her lifelong dedication to fighting for equity and empowerment for disadvantaged groups in Scotland and beyond has left an indelible mark on the community. It was a moment that underscored the enduring commitment of individuals like Ms. McCrum in the ongoing struggle for a fairer and more inclusive society. The Black Scottish Awards provided a platform not just for recognition but also for these deeply moving and inspirational stories that serve as a testament to the strength and unity of the community.

The founder and Chair of The Black Scottish Awards is quoted saying “I wanted this awards ceremony to appreciate those who came before us, celebrate with the winners today and inspire those coming after us.

At the heart of the evening, of course, lay in the recognition and celebration of the outstanding award winners, each a luminary in their respective categories:

The Black Scottish Awards 2023 (4)

  • Business of Excellence of The Year sponsored by Barclays: Doqaru Limited
  • Professor Sir Geoff Palmer Outstanding Student of the Year sponsored by Morgan Stanley: Chizulum Ifezulike.
  • Creative of the Year sponsored by Black Professionals Scotland: Chinyanta
  • Professional Senior Leader of the Year sponsored by STV: Lydia Balogun-Wilson
  • Diversity Champion of the Year sponsored by CIPD: Samuel Agbede
  • Ally of The Year sponsored by Black Professionals Scotland: Carol Anderson MBE
  • Sports Personality of the Year sponsored by sportscotland: Panashe Muzambe
  • Outstanding Contribution To The Black Community sponsored by Black Professionals Scotland: Dr. Adaeze Ifezulike MBE
  • Community Organisation of the Year sponsored by TSB: Jambo! Radio Scotland
  • Professional Rising Star of The Year sponsored by Black Professionals Scotland: Oluwafunbi Karunwi

 

The Black Scottish Awards 2023 wasn’t just an event; it was a celebration of the vibrant, multifaceted Black Scottish community and a source of inspiration for all. To connect and relive the moments follow The Black Scottish Awards on Instagram:

@theblackscottishawards and on LinkedIn: The Black Scottish Awards. You can also

visit :  www.theblackscottishawards to catch a glimpse of the events highlights.

 

With the resounding success of The Black Scottish Awards 2023, anticipation for the next chapter, The Black Scottish Awards 2024, is already building. The remarkable stories, outstanding individuals, and heartwarming moments from the 2023 event have left the community eagerly looking forward to what the 2024 edition will bring. As The Black Scottish Awards continue to be a beacon of unity and recognition, there’s a palpable excitement in the air, and expectations are high for yet another unforgettable evening that will celebrate diversity, inspire change, and honour those who are making a lasting impact. Stay tuned for what promises to be an even more remarkable celebration in the coming year.

Glasgow’s City Centre Killermont Street to Temporarily Close for 5 Days

Exif Jpeg Picture

Starting from 6 am on Wednesday, November 1, Glasgow’s Killermont Street in the city centre will undergo a temporary closure for five days. The road segment between West Nile Street and North Hanover Street will be off-limits to all traffic except buses. This measure is necessary to facilitate essential carriageway resurfacing, ensuring the safety and quality of the road for motorists.

The closure is scheduled to conclude at 6 am on Monday, November 6, providing ample time for the necessary maintenance work to be carried out. This project aims to improve the condition of the road surface, enhancing the overall driving experience and reducing potential hazards for commuters.

During the closure period, alternative routes will be signposted to redirect traffic and minimise disruption for motorists navigating through the city centre. The decision to limit access to buses only aims to prioritise public transportation and accommodate the needs of passengers reliant on these services.

Local authorities and transportation agencies are working closely to manage the closure effectively and ensure minimal inconvenience to residents, businesses, and commuters. It is advised that motorists plan their journeys in advance, allowing for extra time or considering alternative modes of transportation to navigate through the affected area.

Carriageway resurfacing plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of road infrastructure, particularly in heavily trafficked areas. By addressing wear and tear, potholes, and other surface defects, these maintenance activities contribute to safer and more efficient road networks.

Road users and residents are encouraged to stay updated with official announcements and follow any instructions or diversions put in place by the authorities. The temporary closure of Killermont Street presents an opportunity to enhance the road’s condition, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience for all.

Once the resurfacing work is completed, Glasgow’s commuters and visitors can look forward to improved road conditions, enhanced safety, and increased convenience. The temporary inconvenience caused by the closure will pave the way for long-term benefits in terms of transportation efficiency and overall road quality.

Magnitude 5.6 Earthquake Rattles Jamaica, Felt Across the Caribbean

Jamaica experienced a magnitude 5.6 earthquake on Monday, causing tremors felt not only on the island but also in Haiti, the United States Minor Outlying Islands, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, and Cuba. While no serious injuries or fatalities have been reported thus far, some buildings have suffered damage, leading to the closure of schools in certain areas.

The European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) reported that the earthquake originated at a depth of 17 kilometres (10.56 miles) around 10:57 am local time. This seismic event follows a magnitude 5.2 earthquake that occurred in September, heightening concerns among observers who note that strong earthquakes are rare in Jamaica.

Throughout the affected regions, employees in corporate areas evacuated their buildings and sought out safe zones until the earthquake subsided. Prime Minister Andrew Holness issued a statement urging citizens to remain calm, emphasising that no significant damage or loss of life has been reported. He also called for patience as damage assessments are conducted.

Jamaica promptly activated its earthquake protocol, with the primary challenge stemming from a series of electrical outages caused by damage to powerlines and infrastructure in certain regions. The nation is known for experiencing numerous minor earthquakes, averaging 200 per year. However, the recent back-to-back strong earthquakes have raised concerns among observers.

Notable seismic events in Jamaica’s history include the devastating Port Royal earthquake in 1692, which caused a portion of the town to sink into the sea. In 1907, the capital city of Kingston was struck by a major earthquake that claimed the lives of 1,000 people. Another significant event occurred in March 1957, predominantly affecting Western Jamaica.

Jamaica shares the Enriquillo–Plantain Garden fault zone with Haiti and the Dominican Republic, rendering all three nations vulnerable to seismic activity. The proximity of these countries within the same region underscores the need for robust disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of their populations.