Amnesty International and Albinism Task Force Call for Protection of Persons with Albinism Ahead of Court Appearance in South Africa

Amnesty International And Albinism Task Force Call For Protection Of Persons With Albinism Ahead Of Court Appearance In South Africa

As South African traditional healer Bongolethu “Dr Khehlelezi” Mzozo prepares to appear in court tomorrow over a video that spread misinformation about persons with albinism on YouTube, Amnesty International and the National Albinism Task Force are urging the South African government to take action in safeguarding individuals with albinism from discrimination, hostility, and violence.

Following the release of the video, the Thembisilemadlala Albinism Foundation, supported by The National Albinism Task Force, lodged a case with the Equality Court under Section 20 of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 2000 (PEPUDA). The organizations argued that the video was discriminatory and constituted “hate speech” against persons with albinism.

Amidst these developments, Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, emphasized that individuals with albinism have the same rights as anyone else, including the right to be free from discrimination and protected against the advocacy of hatred. Chagutah expressed deep concern over the marginalization and discrimination faced by persons with albinism, as perpetuating hate and discrimination puts their safety at serious risk.

Amnesty International and the National Albinism Task Force are jointly calling on the South African government to promptly respect, promote, and fulfil the rights of individuals with albinism. They also urge the government to hold accountable those who violate these rights and take measures to eradicate discrimination, counter misinformation, and dispel stereotypes about persons with albinism.

Patrick Wadula, Chairperson of the National Albinism Task Force in South Africa, appealed to the public to stand in solidarity with people with albinism by condemning and reporting any behaviour that promotes hatred or incites discrimination against them.

The case has gone through previous court proceedings, with opportunities for settlement or mediation, which ultimately failed. The applicants are now seeking just and equitable relief from the court, highlighting the harms and violence caused by the contents of the video.

Furthermore, concerns persist regarding the reported disappearance of two individuals in Kwa Zulu-Natal since the video’s release, as well as the ongoing experiences of violence, harm, and discrimination faced by persons with albinism in South Africa.

Persons with albinism endure structural and systemic discrimination across southern Africa and live in fear for their lives. They are often targeted and killed for their body parts in various countries in the region. Albinism organizations are set to hold a solidarity march from Gandhi Park in Verulam, Kwa Zulu-Natal to the Equality Court at the Verulam Magistrate Court for the hearing, aiming to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of individuals with albinism.

The court appearance of Bongolethu “Dr Khehlelezi” Mzozo marks a crucial moment in the fight against discrimination and violence targeting persons with albinism, calling for justice and protection for this vulnerable community.

 

Source: Amnesty International

Gunmen Fatally Shoot Couple in Front of School, Causing Panic Among Students in Salt Spring, Jamaica

Gunmen Fatally Shoot Couple In Front Of School, Causing Panic Among Students In Salt Spring, Jamaica

In a horrifying incident that unfolded in Salt Spring, St. James, today, gunmen unleashed a barrage of gunfire that claimed the lives of a man and a woman. The victims were fatally shot in front of Salt Spring Primary School, sending shockwaves of panic through the student population.

According to reports received by Radio Jamaica News, the tragic incident occurred in close proximity to the school, causing a traumatic experience for both teachers and students. Trudi-Ann Taylor, the acting principal of the school, expressed her sorrow over the incident and its impact on the school community. She revealed that the children were left nervous and frightened, with some even experiencing involuntary bodily reactions due to the overwhelming trauma.

“The children were nervous and panicky. Some children even peed and defecated on themselves because of the trauma. It’s incredibly sad that such a horrific event took place so close to the school. Teachers and students are understandably shaken up,” lamented Taylor. She further disclosed that teachers and students sought refuge under their desks as the sound of gunshots pierced the air.

According to reports, the couple was traveling in a taxi from their residence in Flower Hill when, upon reaching a section of the Salt Spring main road, they were forcibly removed from the vehicle and shot by unidentified assailants. The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and investigations are underway to apprehend the perpetrators.

St. James, unfortunately, holds the grim distinction of having the highest number of murder cases in the country, with over 150 recorded since the beginning of the year. The incident in Salt Spring further highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures and a concerted effort to address the pervasive issue of violence in the region.

As the community mourns the loss of two lives and grapples with the aftermath of this shocking incident, local authorities are urged to prioritize the safety of residents, particularly in areas with high crime rates. The well-being of students should be treated as paramount, with measures put in place to ensure their psychological support and a safe learning environment.

The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by communities affected by violence. It is a collective responsibility to work towards a safer society, where incidents like these become a thing of the past, and children can pursue their education without fear.

 

Source: Radio Jamaica News

Ethiopian Airlines Reveals Its Reluctant Involvement in Nigeria Air Project

Nigeria Transport Aviation

In a surprising turn of events, Ethiopian Airlines has broken its silence regarding its participation in Nigeria’s controversial Nigeria Air project, initiated by the previous administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. The airline’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, disclosed that Ethiopian Airlines had initially contemplated withdrawing from the deal but was ultimately persuaded by the federal government to stay on board.

This development occurred despite a pending court case initiated by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), which had obtained an injunction halting the project. The project, spearheaded by former Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, was launched on May 27 but faced numerous setbacks when it was discovered that an Ethiopian Airlines aircraft had been used for a demonstration flight, in violation of the establishment process for a new airline.

In an interview with Nigerian journalists in Addis Ababa, Mr. Tasew clarified that Ethiopian Airlines had never harboured any intention to establish an airline in Nigeria. According to him, the Nigerian government had formally requested Ethiopian Airlines’ participation in a bid to assist in the creation of a national carrier, Nigeria Air. Despite initial reservations due to ongoing commitments in other countries, Ethiopian Airlines ultimately agreed to respect the Nigerian government’s request, citing its service to the Nigerian public and government through flights to four cities in the country.

Mr. Tasew further revealed that Ethiopian Airlines had submitted a proposal after being informed that it had been selected by the Ministry of Aviation as the partner for establishing the airline. The proposed structure would see Ethiopian Airlines holding a 49% stake, the federal government retaining 5%, and the remaining 46% being allocated to Nigerian investors. However, there were discrepancies between the two parties regarding the composition of Nigerian investment institutions and the government’s insistence on retaining only a 5% share.

Addressing another point of contention, Mr. Tasew explained that Nigerian authorities had requested the display of Ethiopian Airlines aircraft painted with the Nigeria Air logo for inspection. Ethiopian Airlines obliged and temporarily painted one of its aircraft with the Nigerian logo, which was later repainted with the Ethiopian logo after the inspection.

While discussing the objectives of Nigeria Air, Mr. Tasew stressed that the Nigerian government aimed to establish a reliable and dependable national carrier to address issues of flight punctuality, cancellations, and high airfares charged by foreign airlines. However, this revelation has sparked mixed reactions within the industry, with some stakeholders accusing the government of undermining local airlines.

Mr. Olumide Ohunayo, Secretary General of Aviation Roundtable, expressed his disappointment, labelling the Nigeria Air case as an embarrassment for the nation. He criticized the government for disregarding domestic airlines, claiming that Nigeria possessed the highest number of airlines in Africa, although they may not have as many aircraft as their counterparts.

The involvement of Ethiopian Airlines in the Nigeria Air project, coupled with the revelations made by its CEO, has shed new light on the complexities and controversies surrounding the initiative. As the project undergoes further scrutiny and the aviation industry awaits the court’s decision, the future of Nigeria Air remains uncertain.

Kenyan MP Sparks Controversy for Wearing Palestinian Scarf in Parliament

Kenyan Mp Sparks Controversy For Wearing Palestinian Scarf In Parliament

A Kenyan Member of Parliament (MP) has stirred controversy after being instructed to remove a traditional Palestinian scarf he was wearing during a parliamentary sitting. Farah Maalim, the MP in question, donned the scarf as a symbol of solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza, who were caught in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Mr. Maalim expressed his belief that Palestine needed the support of all Kenyans during these challenging times. However, his gesture faced opposition from the Speaker of the National Assembly, who deemed the scarf a violation of parliamentary regulations.

Fellow MPs also joined in the criticism, accusing the legislator of showing disrespect towards the rules of the House. The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the balance between individual expressions of solidarity and adherence to parliamentary decorum.

This incident follows the recent detention of three individuals by Kenyan authorities for their involvement in a pro-Palestinian gathering in Nairobi, the capital city. The brief detention of the individuals underscores the sensitive nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the varying perspectives surrounding it.

Mr. Maalim’s decision to wear the Palestinian scarf in Parliament has ignited discussions about the appropriate boundaries of political expression within the legislative chamber. Supporters argue that MPs should be allowed to express their solidarity with international causes, while opponents stress the importance of adhering to parliamentary rules and maintaining the decorum of the House.

The issue raises broader questions about the role of personal beliefs and political activism within the context of parliamentary proceedings. As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen whether this incident will lead to a revision of parliamentary regulations regarding symbolic displays by MPs or further ignite discussions on the delicate balance between personal expression and adherence to established rules and protocols.

The MP’s act of solidarity through wearing the Palestinian scarf has sparked a national conversation about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of Kenyan lawmakers in international affairs. It serves as a reminder that political gestures can have far-reaching implications, even within the confines of a parliamentary setting.

 

Source: Africa News

Scottish Schools Confront Surge in Misogynistic Abuse and Physical Attacks on Teachers

Scottish Schools Confront Surge In Misogynistic Abuse And Physical Attacks On Teachers

A summit organised by the Scottish Government on Wednesday revealed a disturbing increase in misogynistic abuse and physical attacks targeting teachers in Scottish schools. The emergency meeting, chaired by Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth, brought together teachers, unions, parents, and child experts to address the escalating violence.

During the summit, shocking accounts of assaults were shared, shedding light on the alarming incidents occurring within classrooms across Scotland. Mike Corbett, NASUWT Scotland officer, relayed the experiences of their members, which ranged from being pelted with rocks to suffering physical assaults while attempting to break up fights, as well as enduring misogynistic abuse. The summit served as a platform for educators to voice their concerns and seek government action to protect teachers and students from the violence and abusive behaviour of a small but disruptive segment of young individuals.

The focus of the summit was to explore interventions and strategies that the Scottish Government can implement to tackle the growing epidemic of youth violence by addressing behavioural issues and fostering healthy relationships. The first phase of the meeting, held the previous month, concentrated on the reporting and monitoring of incidents within classrooms.

Startling statistics revealed that violence incidents in primary schools surged to nearly 11,000 in the academic year 2021/22, marking a 56% increase compared to the previous year—a trend that coincided with the onset of the pandemic. In secondary schools, reports of violent incidents rose from 1,544 in 2020/21 to 2,951 in the following year, indicating another significant escalation.

A survey conducted by the GMB shed further light on the dire situation, with one in six support staff admitting to experiencing violence on a daily basis in Scottish schools. Additionally, one in three support staff revealed being subjected to attacks on a weekly basis, with incidents ranging from physical assault to being punched, kicked, and spat on.

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts between teachers, children’s organisations, parents, and stakeholders within the education sector to develop effective solutions for improving behaviour and ensuring safer school environments. The constructive input provided by all participants was acknowledged and appreciated in the pursuit of addressing this pressing issue.

The summit served as a platform to raise awareness of the escalating violence within Scottish schools and to urge decisive action to protect teachers, promote a respectful learning environment, and safeguard the well-being of students and staff members alike.

Care Assistant Removed from Register for Displaying Aggressive Behaviour Towards Residents and Colleague

Care Assistant Removed From Register For Displaying Aggressive Behaviour Towards Residents And Colleague

Carol Smith, a care assistant employed by HCOne Limited at Greenfield Park Care Home, has been struck off the register following a series of incidents that involved aggressive behaviour towards residents and a colleague. The Scottish Social Services Committee (SSSC) deemed her actions to demonstrate a pattern of aggressive behaviour, raising concerns about her suitability for a role in the profession.

The SSSC investigation revealed that on October 16, 2021, Ms. Smith shouted at a staff member, using explicit language, regarding their assistance to a resident. The following day, on October 17, she was found to have forcefully pushed a resident into his wheelchair by pushing on his thighs while uttering the command “sit down.” Additionally, Ms. Smith directed derogatory language towards the same resident, calling him “lazy” and threatening to leave him in his wheelchair. Further, she shoved another resident against a wall near her bed, pressing her palm onto the resident’s face and pushing it into the wall.

On October 20, Ms. Smith engaged in another aggressive act when she hit a colleague with a tea towel and repeatedly bumped into her while passing by.

The SSSC strongly condemned Ms. Smith’s behaviour, highlighting that it exhibited a consistent pattern of aggression and raised doubts about her suitability for the caring and responsible profession. In their decision, they stated that her actions fell well below the expected level of professionalism and brought into question her values and ability to maintain the dignity of service users and communicate appropriately with both residents and colleagues.

The verdict of the SSSC concluded that Ms. Smith’s aggressive behaviour warranted her removal from the professional register. The decision serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the highest standards of care and professionalism in the social services sector, ensuring the well-being and dignity of vulnerable individuals.

HCOne Limited and Greenfield Park Care Home have not issued a formal statement regarding the incidents involving Carol Smith. However, it is expected that they will take appropriate actions to address the matter and reinforce their commitment to providing a safe and compassionate environment for residents.

The case of Carol Smith serves as a reminder of the crucial role played by regulatory bodies in maintaining the integrity of the social services sector and safeguarding the well-being of those in need of care.

 

Source: Glasgow Live

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.