Environment
Southern African Leaders Meet Amid Mpox Concerns
Southern African leaders are gathering in Zimbabwe for a summit of the 16-nation Southern African Development Community (SADC) amid concerns over the rising mpox outbreaks across the continent. The World Health Organization recently declared the mpox outbreaks in Africa a global health emergency, with the SADC region, including Congo, being the most affected.
However, the summit is unlikely to address international concerns about Zimbabwe’s human rights record, despite criticism from UN human rights figures and other groups over an alleged political crackdown by the government. Over 160 activists and opposition members have been arrested in recent months, with reports of enforced disappearance, torture, and other human rights abuses.
The mpox outbreak is expected to be on the agenda, with South Africa’s Democratic Alliance party urging delegates to raise the issue. The party warned that Congo’s large outbreak “shows just how fast the situation can change.”
Read also : Congo Reports Over A Thousand Mpox Cases In A Week
The summit comes as scientists have identified a new form of mpox in Congo that might be more infectious, raising concerns about the potential for international spread. Sweden has already reported its first case of the new variant.
The SADC summit is scheduled to take place in Harare, Zimbabwe, despite concerns over the host country’s human rights record. The UN’s human rights office has called for the release of dozens of activists and opposition members who have been jailed, citing reports of torture and other human rights abuses.
Environment
“Florida Battles Devastation: Hurricane Milton’s Destruction and Resilience Efforts”
Hurricane Milton ravaged Florida with fierce winds, flooding, and tornadoes, leaving 16 dead and millions without power. Communities face widespread destruction, as stories of survival and rescue emerge, including daring evacuations and rebuilding efforts. As officials warn against disaster sightseeing, residents and authorities focus on recovery. The storm highlights the urgent need for climate action and preparedness, as Floridians confront the realities of living in a storm-prone state.
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Business
Echoes Of Unfulfilled Promises In Nigeria’s Journey
As Nigeria commemorates its 64th Independence anniversary, the stark contrast between celebration and the persistent challenges of corruption, mismanagement, and unfulfilled promises becomes evident.
The editorial revisits historical attempts at reform, such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission’s (ICPC) prosecutions and the House of Representatives’ inquiry into the unfulfilled $14.5 million aircraft repair contract. Many of these initiatives have faded from public memory, leaving questions about accountability unresolved.
High-profile corruption cases, including the Halliburton scandal involving alleged bribes of $180 million, highlight systemic failures within the political landscape.
The editorial emphasizes the need for collective action from citizens, civil society, and the media to demand transparency and accountability. It warns that without addressing these entrenched failures, Nigeria’s path toward democracy and good governance may continue to be fraught with unfulfilled promises.
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Environment
CARICOM Development Fund donates $270,000 to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for Hurricane Beryl Relief
The CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) has donated US$100,000 (ap-proximately EC$270,000) to the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to support recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl.
The funds, drawn from the CDF’s Emergency Disaster Assistance Facility (EDAF), will aid in the removal and transportation of debris from the three Grenadine islands of Canouan, Mayreau, and Union Island.
The grant will finance sea transportation of the debris for safe recycling in neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago, protecting fragile ecosystems and establishing access corridors for relief de-livery.
Hurricane Beryl, a Category 4 storm, caused widespread damage and three deaths in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, particularly on the Grenadines islets.
Read also : CARICOM Heads of Government Unite in Grenada to address Regional Challenges
The CDF’s EDAF is a quick response facility designed to ad-dress natural or man-made disasters that exceed the affected country’s ability to cope. The CDF is also working with affected Member States to sup-port the early restoration of livelihoods, promoting regional cohesion and addressing disparities.