Resurfacing Works Prompt Temporary Closure of Station Road in Millerston

Resurfacing Works Prompt Temporary Closure Of Station Road In Millerston

In a bid to enhance the road infrastructure, Station Road in Millerston is set to undergo resurfacing works, leading to a temporary closure starting at 09:30 am on Sunday, December 10, until 4:30 pm on Friday, December 15. Commuters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly as delays are anticipated during this period.

The resurfacing project aims to improve the road conditions, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience for residents and commuters. The closure has been scheduled to minimise disruption to the community and facilitate the swift completion of the maintenance works.

To mitigate inconvenience, drivers are encouraged to steer clear of Station Road and explore alternative routes. The closure period is expected to witness increased traffic diversions, and motorists are urged to plan ahead to avoid unnecessary delays.

While the closure may cause some temporary inconvenience, local access will be maintained throughout the duration of the works. This ensures that residents and businesses in the vicinity can continue with their daily activities without significant disruption.

The local authorities understand the importance of keeping the community informed and ensuring that the roadworks are executed efficiently. The cooperation of residents and commuters is appreciated as these necessary improvements are carried out to enhance the overall quality of transportation infrastructure in Millerston.

For further updates and information on the road closure and alternative routes, residents can refer to local announcements or contact the relevant authorities. The temporary inconvenience is expected to yield long-term benefits with a smoother and more reliable Station Road for all.

German Court Sentences Gambian Death Squad Member to Life Imprisonment for Crimes Against Humanity

German Court Sentences Gambian Death Squad Member To Life Imprisonment For Crimes Against Humanity

In a historic verdict, a German court has sentenced a member of a Gambian death squad to life imprisonment for crimes against humanity and other charges. The trial marked the first prosecution in Germany for abuses committed under former President Yahya Jammeh’s regime.

The individual, known to the media as Bai Lowe but identified as Bai L. by the German justice system, was found guilty of crimes against humanity, murder, and attempted murder in three cases. The court in Celle, located in northern Germany, delivered the verdict following the public prosecutor’s request.

The 48-year-old man was specifically convicted of participating in murders that took place in Gambia between 2003 and 2006, including the killing of AFP correspondent Deyda Hydara on December 16, 2004.

Bai Lowe served as a driver for the “Junglers,” a Gambian death squad established by the government in the mid-1990s to intimidate or eliminate opposition figures.

During a hearing in October 2022, the defendant denied any involvement in the crimes, as stated by his lawyer. The defence pleaded for his acquittal, but the court rejected these arguments.

Germany’s recognition of universal jurisdiction for serious crimes under international law enabled the trial to take place on its soil, regardless of the accused’s nationality or the location of the alleged crimes. The country has previously convicted individuals for atrocities committed during the Syrian civil war.

The specific charges against Bai Lowe included involvement in the attempted murder of lawyer Ousman Sillah, the murder of Deyda Hydara, the attempted murder of Ida Jagne and Nian Sarang Jobe (who worked for the newspaper co-founded by Hydara), and the murder of former Gambian soldier Dawda Nyassi.

Deyda Hydara himself claimed to have falsely accused himself of acts he did not commit, aiming to expose the cruelty of Yahya Jammeh’s regime (1994-2017). However, the court deemed this line of defence implausible, and the civil parties expressed their disappointment with Bai Lowe’s statement.

The verdict in Celle serves as a warning to others who committed crimes under the dictatorship, according to the victims’ relatives and NGOs. Reed Brody, a lawyer with the International Commission of Jurists working with the victims, stated, “The long arm of justice has caught up with Bai Lowe in Germany, as it is already catching up with Yahya Jammeh’s henchmen around the world and will hopefully also catch up with Jammeh himself.”

Parallel proceedings against Jammeh’s collaborators are ongoing outside of Gambia, including the trial of Ousman Sonko, former Minister of the Interior, in Switzerland since 2017 for crimes against humanity. Additionally, Michael Sang Correa, another individual associated with Jammeh, is set to stand trial in the United States.

While Yahya Jammeh resides in Equatorial Guinea, a country with no extradition agreement with Gambia, the Gambian government has initiated efforts to address the crimes committed during his 22-year dictatorship. In collaboration with the Organization of West African States, Gambia announced plans to establish a tribunal to prosecute the crimes of the former dictator.

The pursuit of justice for the victims of the Jammeh regime remains a significant challenge for President Adama Barrow, who assumed office following a surprise victory in the 2016 presidential election.

 

Source: Africa News

Ugandan Woman, Safina Namukwaya, Becomes Africa’s Oldest New Mother at 70, Gives Birth to Twins

Ugandan Woman, Safina Namukwaya, Becomes Africa's Oldest New Mother At 70, Gives Birth To Twins

In a remarkable milestone, Safina Namukwaya, a 70-year-old woman from Uganda, has become Africa’s oldest new mother after giving birth to twins. The boy and girl twins were delivered prematurely via cesarean section at 31 weeks and are currently in stable condition, receiving care in incubators.

Namukwaya expressed her joy upon learning about her pregnancy with twins during a routine checkup. “When I had a checkup, they told me I had twins, and I was very happy,” she shared.

The successful pregnancy and delivery were made possible through fertility treatment at the Women’s Hospital International and Fertility Centre, where Doctor Edward Tamale Sali supervised Namukwaya’s journey.

“This is an extraordinary achievement, delivering twins to Africa’s oldest mother at 70 years,” stated Dr. Sali, emphasising the significance of this milestone.

Notably, this is Namukwaya’s second delivery in three years, having given birth to a girl in 2020. Dr. Sali highlighted that age should not be the sole factor determining a woman’s ability to bear children. “Age is just a number. A young woman can also die of complications from pregnancy,” he explained. “And an old woman, if she is fit, can also survive.”

Thanks to advancements in medical technology and treatments, women like Namukwaya can now conceive and give birth even after reaching menopause, typically occurring between the ages of 45 to 55.

With the birth of the twins, Namukwaya has achieved the distinction of becoming Africa’s oldest new mother, showcasing the evolving possibilities in reproductive medicine.

This remarkable story serves as a testament to the progress and opportunities available to women who aspire to have children later in life. While it highlights the potential for older women to safely undergo pregnancies with appropriate medical support, it also sparks conversations about the ethical considerations and potential risks associated with advanced maternal age.

Nevertheless, Namukwaya’s journey is a source of inspiration and hope for many, demonstrating that age should not be a limiting factor in pursuing the dream of motherhood.

 

Source: Africa News

Kenyan Government Issues Warning and Evacuation Orders as Floods Claim Over 150 Lives

Kenyan Government Issues Warning And Evacuation Orders As Floods Claim Over 150 Lives

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern warning to residents near Masinga, Kamburu, Kindaruma, Gitaru, and Kiambere Dams along the Tana River in Kenya, urging them to relocate to safer areas due to the escalating risk of floods. The floods have already claimed the lives of over 150 people since last month, and the situation remains critical.

According to official records, more than 100,000 households, comprising approximately 462,160 individuals, have been displaced by the floods. The rising water levels in the dams, coupled with the continuous heavy rainfall, pose a significant threat of devastating floods that could disproportionately affect communities residing near these dams.

“To safeguard lives and ensure the well-being of all residents residing in close proximity to Masinga, Kamburu, Kindaruma, Gitaru, and Kiambere Dams, the government is taking measures to evacuate all individuals to secure locations,” warned Kindiki in a statement on Sunday.

Kindiki emphasised the importance of citizens heeding safety directives issued by relevant authorities, including the Meteorological Department. Remaining vigilant and following the guidance provided can help prevent further loss of life.

The government has pledged to inform individuals who are likely to be affected by the flooding. Their data and information have been gathered to facilitate a smooth evacuation process, should the need arise. Suitable relocation sites have been identified where evacuated residents will be accommodated until the rains subside. The government will ensure the availability of essential supplies, including food, non-food items, medicines, and other necessities.

Local leaders and administration officials from the national government will work together to execute the evacuation plan, prioritising the safety and well-being of those affected. The government remains committed to closely monitoring the situation brought about by the El Niño rains across various regions of the country. Swift and efficient responses to any emergencies that may arise will be a top priority.

During this challenging period, the safety and welfare of Kenyan citizens are of utmost importance. The government urges everyone to stay informed, remain cautious, and cooperate with authorities to mitigate the impact of the floods and protect lives.

Venezuelan Nonbinding Referendum Supports Territorial Claim on Guyana’s Oil-Rich Region

Venezuelan Nonbinding Referendum Supports Territorial Claim On Guyana's Oil Rich Region

In a nonbinding referendum held on Sunday, Venezuelan electoral authorities reported that 95 percent of voters approved of the nation’s territorial claim on a significant portion of neighbouring Guyana, a region known for its vast oil reserves. The consultation saw the participation of approximately 10.5 million out of Venezuela’s 20.7 million eligible voters, raising concerns in Guyana and the surrounding region about Venezuela’s intentions regarding the disputed territory.

Elvis Amoroso, the president of the National Electoral Council, hailed the outcome as an “evident and overwhelming victory for the ‘Yes’ in this consultative referendum.” The Venezuelan government aimed to strengthen its century-old claim to the oil-rich Essequibo territory governed by Guyana through this referendum.

To accommodate voters already present at polling stations, electoral officials extended the voting period by two hours, closing at 8:00 pm (0000 GMT). Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino addressed the nation on state television, describing the day as a celebration of national sovereignty and emphasising the people’s resounding support.

Meanwhile, in Guyana, thousands of citizens formed human chains in solidarity with their government, expressing their commitment to the country’s borders. The president of Guyana, Irfaan Ali, reassured the population that the nation’s borders were secure and urged them not to fear.

It is important to note that the referendum is nonbinding, and the people of Essequibo did not participate in the vote. Thus, the immediate impact of the referendum’s outcome is expected to be minimal. The Maduro government has repeatedly stated that it does not seek to invade or annex the disputed territory, as feared by some in Guyana.

Tensions between the two nations have been escalating since Guyana received bids for offshore oil exploration blocks in September, and a significant oil discovery was announced in October. Guyana’s petroleum reserves have been compared to those of Kuwait, boasting the highest reserves per capita globally.

In an attempt to sway public opinion, the Maduro government released a video on Sunday suggesting that some Guyanese citizens would prefer to be under Venezuelan rule. The footage allegedly showed a group of Indigenous Pemon adults in Guyana lowering their nation’s flag and raising the Venezuelan flag while singing the Venezuelan national anthem.

Venezuela has laid claim to the vast Essequibo territory for decades, comprising over two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass, despite its relatively small population of 125,000 compared to Guyana’s total population. Caracas argues that the Essequibo River, located to the east of the region, represents the natural border between the two countries, as established under Spanish rule in 1777, and accuses Britain of unjustly appropriating Venezuelan lands in the 19th century.

On the other hand, Guyana asserts that the border was defined during the British colonial era and subsequently confirmed by a court of arbitration in 1899. The country maintains that the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations’ highest judicial body, has validated this finding.

Guyana had sought to prevent the referendum through an appeal to the ICJ. Although the court urged Caracas not to take any actions that might affect the disputed territory, it did not specifically mention the referendum itself.

The referendum encompassed five questions, including proposals for the creation of a Venezuelan province named “Guyana Essequibo” and the granting of Venezuelan citizenship to the region’s inhabitants. It also included a call to reject the jurisdiction of the ICJ.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, attending the COP28 environment conference in Dubai, expressed his belief that the referendum would likely yield the result desired by President Maduro. However, he expressed hope that reason would prevail.

Despite the significance attributed to the referendum by Venezuela, some locals in Guyana downplayed its importance. Dilip Singh, a businessman residing in the disputed region, remarked, “The referendum is probably important for them, for Venezuela – not for us. I grew up in Essequibo… Now it is independent, and it will always be so.”

 

Source: France24

Investigation Launched into Allegations of AI Involvement in President Ramaphosa’s Speech

Investigation Launched Into Allegations Of Ai Involvement In President Ramaphosa’s Speech

South African officials have initiated an investigation into claims that President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent speech on decolonising education was partly generated with the assistance of AI technology, specifically ChatGPT. The speech, delivered with enthusiasm at a conference in Johannesburg on November 21, has sparked speculation after social media users fed portions of the text into AI-detection software designed to identify AI-generated content.

One particular segment of the speech, which focused on challenging colonial theories and embracing diversity and inclusivity, raised eyebrows and fuelled the speculation of AI involvement. The snippet, along with other parts of the speech, appeared to exhibit characteristics associated with AI-generated text.

Vincent Magwenya, a spokesperson for the presidency, promptly addressed the issue, clarifying that the presidency does not rely on AI for speech-writing purposes. However, he did disclose that certain portions of President Ramaphosa’s address were crafted by the Department of Basic Education. As a result, the department has been called upon to provide details on the sources of their content.

Magwenya emphasised the seriousness of the situation, stating that AI-generated speeches are considered unacceptable. If the allegations are substantiated, there will be consequences for those involved.

“We take this matter seriously. AI-generated speeches? A big no-no. If it turns out to be true, there will be consequences,” Magwenya affirmed.

The investigation aims to shed light on the origin of the speech content and clarify whether AI technology played a role in its creation. The use of AI in speech-writing can raise ethical and transparency concerns, especially when it comes to public addresses by political figures. The outcome of the investigation will provide clarity on the matter and potentially influence future practices regarding the use of AI in crafting official speeches.

Gender Mobile Initiative Urges President Tinubu to Sign Sexual Harassment Bill into Law

Gender Mobile Initiative Urges President Tinubu To Sign Sexual Harassment Bill Into Law

The Gender Mobile Initiative (GMI) has called upon President Bola Tinubu to assent to the Sexual Harassment Prohibition in Tertiary Education Institutions Bill, which is currently awaiting his approval. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja as part of the ’16 Days of Activism’ campaign, the Lead Director of GMI, Omowumi Ogunrotimi, emphasised the urgent need for a legal framework to address the critical issue of sexual harassment in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Ms. Ogunrotimi highlighted that sexual harassment has become a rampant problem in Nigerian universities, necessitating a comprehensive legal framework to tackle the issue effectively. With over 350 institutions of higher learning in the country, addressing the problem on an individual basis would be a lengthy process. The proposed bill, introduced in 2019, seeks to prevent, prohibit, and redress sexual harassment in tertiary educational institutions, with offenders facing up to 14 years of imprisonment.

While the bill was opposed by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), it passed through both houses of the National Assembly in June and was subsequently transmitted to the president for assent. However, President Tinubu has yet to sign the bill into law. The GMI emphasised the recent protest against the Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar as evidence of the urgent need to address sexual harassment and protect the rights of students.

Ms. Ogunrotimi acknowledged various initiatives already in place to combat sexual harassment, including a sexual harassment prohibition policy co-designed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the GMI, and higher education institutions. However, she stressed the need for a comprehensive legal framework to provide statutory backing and criminalise sexual harassment in higher education institutions.

The GMI believes that passing the Sexual Harassment bill into law is the most promising solution. The legislation includes clear definitions of offences, stringent penalties for perpetrators, and mechanisms for prevention and redress. Ms. Ogunrotimi emphasised that the president’s action would send a powerful message about the nation’s values and commitment to creating an environment where all students, particularly female students, can thrive.

The GMI calls on President Tinubu to swiftly assent to the bill, highlighting that statutory backing is not just a formality but a fundamental requirement to enforce the provisions and bring about tangible change in the fight against sexual harassment in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

 

Source: Premium Times Nigeria

Uganda Faces Alarming Surge in HIV/AIDS Infections Ahead of World AIDS Day

As the world prepares to observe World AIDS Day, Uganda is confronting a distressing surge in HIV/AIDS infections, with over 1,000 new cases reported each week, averaging a troubling 158 cases per day, according to the Uganda AIDS Commission.

The Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment conducted a comprehensive evaluation, revealing significant regional variations in HIV prevalence, ranging from 2.1 percent in the North East (Karamoja) region to 8.1 percent in the Central 1 region (Greater Masaka).

The country is witnessing an alarming trend with the consistent reporting of at least 1,000 new infections per week.

Dr. Cecilia Nattembo, Regional Medical Director at Uganda Cares, underlines the seriousness of the situation, stating, “The distribution of HIV prevalence across regions highlights the complexity of the challenge we face. Urgent and targeted interventions are needed to address the varying rates.”

Despite a 22% decline in new HIV infections since 2015, Uganda recorded 52,000 new infections as of December 2022, according to the Uganda AIDS Commission.

Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Minister of Health, acknowledges the persistent high levels of new infections, stating, “While we’ve made progress, the current numbers still pose a risk to global commitments. Our focus remains on achieving the 95-95-95 targets.”

Dr. Aceng further highlights Uganda’s progress, stating, “As of today, we have achieved a 92-94-94 milestone on the 95-95-95 targets. This signifies significant strides in our efforts to control the spread of HIV/AIDS.”

Reports indicate that South Buganda and Mid North are currently experiencing the highest burden of new HIV infections, with adolescent girls aged 15-24 being the most affected, accounting for nearly four out of every five new infections.

The 2020 Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment reveals that the current HIV prevalence among adults aged 15 and above is 5.8%, a slight decrease from 6.2% in 2016. Prevalence among women stands at 7.2%, while men report a prevalence of 4.3%.

In light of these alarming statistics, Uganda grapples with the urgent need for targeted interventions and increased awareness to curb the surge in HIV/AIDS cases. These findings emphasise the significance of sustained efforts on the eve of World AIDS Day, as the nation strives to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS and ensure the well-being of its citizens.

 

Source: Nile Post

Zimbabwe Introduces Stringent Measures to Combat Deadly Cholera Outbreak

Zimbabwe Introduces Stringent Measures To Combat Deadly Cholera Outbreak

Amidst a deadly cholera outbreak in Zimbabwe, the government has implemented new measures aimed at halting the spread of the disease. The capital city, Harare, has been placed under a state of emergency, with over 1,200 laboratory-confirmed cases reported across ten provinces in the country.

To address the crisis, the Zimbabwean government has established 46 cholera treatment camps and multiple oral re-hydration points, ensuring that essential services are easily accessible to affected individuals. Hand washing stations and sanitation devices will be installed in public areas to minimise the risk of person-to-person transmission. Furthermore, the government plans to train and deploy approximately 300 healthcare personnel who will conduct door-to-door campaigns to educate the public about cholera.

Acting Health Minister Amon Murwira emphasised the importance of community engagement and collaboration in tackling the outbreak. Various initiatives, such as community dialogues, inter-faith discussions, and stakeholder sensitisation programs, have been scheduled for districts with high cholera incidence rates.

In addition, the government has taken steps to ensure the provision of safe water in affected urban areas. Water tracking systems will be implemented immediately, while water quality monitoring will be conducted across all regions. The supervision of burials in cholera-affected areas will be strengthened, and restrictions on gatherings in such locations will be intensified, according to Information Minister Jenfan Muswere.

The Zimbabwean authorities are taking these stringent measures to curb the spread of cholera and protect public health. Cholera is a highly contagious waterborne disease that can cause severe illness and death if left untreated. By prioritising public awareness, access to treatment, and sanitation practices, the government aims to mitigate the impact of the outbreak and safeguard the well-being of its citizens.

 

Source: CGTN Africa

UN Announces Broader Rollout of Malaria Vaccine in Africa, Signalling a New Era in Disease Control

The United Nations has announced the expansion of malaria vaccination efforts across Africa following the arrival of the first shipment of doses in Cameroon. After a successful pilot phase in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi, where over two million children were vaccinated since 2019, the program is now entering a broader rollout phase. A total of 331,200 doses of RTS,S, the first malaria vaccine recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), have arrived in Cameroon’s capital, Yaounde.

The WHO, UNICEF, and the Gavi vaccine alliance released a joint statement welcoming the delivery, stating that it signifies the imminent scale-up of malaria vaccination in high-risk areas of the African continent. They described it as a historic step toward vaccinating against one of the deadliest diseases affecting African children. The doses are donated by the manufacturer GSK.

Cameroon’s Health Minister, Malachie Manaouda, urged parents to take advantage of this life-saving intervention, emphasising that malaria remains a significant public health threat in the country. In the coming weeks, an additional 1.7 million doses will be delivered to Burkina Faso, Liberia, Niger, and Sierra Leone.

Malaria is the leading cause of mortality in infants and children under five in Liberia. Wilhelmina Jallah, Liberia’s Health Minister, expressed the potential of the vaccine to save many lives and alleviate the burden of the disease.

Several African countries are finalising preparations to introduce malaria vaccines into routine immunisation programs, with the first doses set to be administered between January and March 2024. UNICEF Chief Catherine Russell likened the introduction of vaccines to adding a star player to the field, marking a new era in immunisation and malaria control.

Africa accounted for approximately 95 percent of global malaria cases and 96 percent of related deaths in 2021. While global malaria deaths fell significantly between 2000 and 2019, reaching 568,000, they increased by 10 percent in 2020 to 625,000 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on protection and treatment efforts. In 2021, deaths slightly decreased to 619,000, with 77 percent of them being children under five. Global malaria cases rose slightly to 247 million.

The rollout of the RTS,S vaccine is considered a breakthrough moment for malaria vaccines and disease control. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described it as a ray of light in a dark time for vulnerable children worldwide. The vaccine targets the plasmodium falciparum parasite, the most deadly malaria parasite globally and the most prevalent in Africa. Administered in a four-dose schedule starting around five months of age, the broad implementation of malaria vaccination in endemic regions has the potential to be a game-changer, saving tens of thousands of lives annually, according to the joint statement released by the WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi.

David Walton, the United States’ global malaria coordinator, described this moment as the culmination of decades of efforts and expressed hope for a world in which no child dies from a mosquito bite. The expanded vaccination campaign brings renewed optimism for malaria control and paves the way for a future where the impact of this devastating disease is significantly reduced.

 

Source; Africa News