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Children Under Siege: The Untold Horrors In Sudan, Congo, And Haiti
The United Nations has once again highlighted the grave violations against children in conflict zones around the world. The latest annual report by the U.N. Secretary-General, launched by Virginia Gamba, the U.N. envoy for children and armed conflict, reveals the increasingly dire situation faced by youngsters in war-torn regions such as Sudan, Congo, and Haiti. This investigative feature delves into specific regions to provide a comprehensive understanding of the plight of children caught in the crossfire. Sudan’s descent into chaos began in mid-April 2023 when long-standing tensions between military and paramilitary factions erupted into full-scale conflict. The violence quickly spread from the capital Khartoum to other regions, notably Darfur. Once synonymous with genocide and war crimes, Darfur is now witnessing a resurgence of brutal violence. The U.N. reports that over 14,000 people have been
killed and 33,000 injured in the ongoing conflict. Children in Sudan face unprecedented levels of violence
and exploitation. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been blacklisted by the U.N. for their role in killing, maiming, and sexually assaulting children. Additionally, the Sudanese Armed Forces have been implicated in
similar atrocities, including attacks on schools and hospitals. Gamba’s concerns for the future are particularly focused on Sudan, emphasizing the expansion of violence into neighboring Chad. In the mineral-rich eastern Congo, the situation is deteriorating as the 13,500-strong U.N. peacekeeping force prepares to withdraw by the end of December 2024. This withdrawal leaves a power vacuum that rebel groups and government forces are vying to fill, resulting in increased instability and violence. Gamba’s report highlights “massive sexual violence” against
children in Congo, warning that this is likely to increase as peacekeepers withdraw. The report lists Congo’s armed forces and 16 armed groups on the U.N. blacklist for their roles in violating children’s rights. The absence of U.N. peacekeepers means a significant reduction in monitoring capabilities, leaving children even more vulnerable. Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse on July 7, 2021, gangs have seized control of up to 80% of Haiti’s capital. The surge in gang violence has led to a dramatic increase in killings, rapes, and kidnappings, prompting civilian vigilante groups to rise in opposition.
The U.N. began monitoring violence against children in Haiti in June 2023, verifying 383 grave violations against 307 children in the last six months of the year. These violations include killings, maiming, and particularly systemic sexual violence against girls. The U.N. chief’s report expresses deep concern about the pervasive nature of these violations, which have become endemic in the region. The civil war in Myanmar and its spillover into Bangladesh remain critical areas of concern. Children in these regions face severe threats, including recruitment by armed groups, sexual violence, and lack of access to education and healthcare. Looking to the future, Gamba expressed grave concerns about the situation in Somalia and Afghanistan. Both countries are experiencing heightened conflict and instability, which pose severe risks to children’s safety and well-being. For the first time, the U.N. report included both Israeli forces and Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants on the blacklist for violations against children’s rights in 2023. The listing follows the events of Hamas’ October 7 invasion of southern Israel and the subsequent military retaliation in Gaza, which is still ongoing.
The U.N. also retained the Russian armed forces and affiliated groups on the blacklist for their continued violations against Ukrainian children. These include killings, maiming, and attacks on schools and hospitals throughout 2023.
The international community must prioritize the monitoring and reporting of violations against children in conflict
zones. Without the presence of peacekeepers and adequate monitoring mechanisms, many atrocities may go unreported, leaving children without protection or justice. There is an urgent need for increased humanitarian aid and support for children affected by conflicts. This includes not only
immediate relief but also long term support such as education, psychological care, and community rebuilding efforts. The U.N. report serves as a stark reminder of the horrific conditions faced by children in conflict zones worldwide. From Sudan and Congo to Haiti and beyond, the international community must take decisive action to protect these vulnerable populations. The plight of children in these regions is a humanitarian crisis that demands immediate
and sustained attention. As Gamba’s warnings indicate, without concerted global efforts, the future for these children remains perilously uncertain.
Welcome to the 32nd edition of Diaspora Watch, your premier source of news, insights, and analysis on the global diaspora community. In this edition, we delve into the most pressing issues affecting diaspora communities worldwide, from politics and economics to social justice and culture.
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Our cover headlines are as diverse as they are impactful. We examine Nigeria’s lavish military retirement perks, which have raised eyebrows and ire among citizens. We also report on the devastating earthquake that struck Tibet, killing at least 95 people and injuring 130 others.
In the world of politics, we cover President Biden’s honoring of 19 exceptional individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, as well as Austria’s precarious political situation as coalition talks collapse.
In addition, we celebrate the achievements of outstanding individuals, including Abbie Stockard, the newly crowned Miss America 2025, and Demi Moore, who won her first Golden Globe Award for her role in “The Substance.” We also report on Microsoft’s record $80 billion investment in AI infrastructure and CARICOM Chair Mia Mottley’s ambitious agenda for 2025.
Other notable stories in this edition include the massive fire that destroyed Kantamanto Market in Ghana, affecting over 30,000 traders, and Nigeria’s travel advisory for citizens traveling to Australia.
We also profile Nigeria-born Derek Obialo, who was sworn in as Associate Judge of the 240th District Court in Texas.
As always, Diaspora Watch is committed to providing you with the most comprehensive and engaging coverage of the global diaspora community. We hope you enjoy this edition and look forward to your feedback.
Dignitaries, Chiefs, Others In Attendance As PCNI Austin Branch Celebrates End of Year Party In Texas
It was a night of glamour and excitement as the Austin Branch of the People’s Club of Nigeria International (PCNI) held its end of year party on Saturday, November 30, 2024.Diaspora Watch reports that the well-attended event, which took place at Wingate by Wyndham Round Rock Hotel and Conference Center, Texas, was a celebration of the branch’s achievements and a show of appreciation to God for His blessings throughout the year.
In his address, Hon. Chief Chris Lemchi, the Action Chairman of PCNI Austin Branch who doubles as Akudo 1 of Okwelle Ancient Kingdom welcomed guests and appreciated the presence of dignitaries from various branches of the club.
The event was also graced by the presence of Patron-Elect Ichie Napoleon Onyeje, Mirienweiro, Hon. Patron Chief Dr. Don Ibekwe, Ulu Nimo from Galveston Branch, Patron, Chief Dr. Onyekachi Okoro, Patron-Elect, First National PCNI Vice President Emeritus, Chairman Emeritus, Secretary Emeritus Dallas Branch and the Sponsoring Chairman of our awesome Austin Branch, Assistant National Secretary Hon. Emmanuel Onwukamuche, Secretary Emeritus, First International Branch Houston, High Chief Humphrey Enyioha, Ikoroukwu Texarkana Branch, Hon. Chief Bright Nwokocha, Ugwumba, Chairman Emeritus, First International Branch – Houston, Hon. Nze Dr. Bon Ikwuagwu, Omekaozuo, Chairman 1st International Branch Houston, Hon. Ichie High Chief Sir Dr. Peter I. Okafor, Agbawodike Izu, Chairman Emeritus Dallas, Hon. Chief Chris Ogbuehi, Chairman-Elect – Dallas, Hon. Prince Ike Ginigeme, Founding Chairman Waco Branch, Hon. Chief Dr. Emma Igwe – Founding Chairman Texarkana Branch, Hon. Chief Dr. Emma Igwe, Founding Chairman Texarkana Branch, and Hon. Chief Clara Obidike-Egbim, Okwuru Okarisia 1 of Ebikoro Kingdom, Anyanwu Nwanneka – Founding Chairman of People’s Club of Nigeria- Gainesville Branch and PA to PCNI International President.
Other dignitaries included the President General of Enyimba, Honorable Ubabuike, UBA, Chief Martin Osuji, president Coal City, Chief Francis Odu, president Enyimba Austin, and Chief Fred Ojiyi, President IPC, Hon. Chief Chris Lemchi, Akudo 1 Of Okwelle Ancient Kingdom, Action Chairman PCNI Austin Branch, First Lady, Lolo Rachel Lemchi, Kpakpandudiya, Adakekeocha and Patron-Elect Ichie Napoleon Onyeje, Mirienweiro.
To promote cybersecurity education and awareness, Excel TeKay LLC has announced the release of two critical books, “Intro to Cybersecurity: Guide for Beginners” and “Cyber Scams: Don’t Be A Victim,” written by renowned cybersecurity expert Kimma Wreh. Now available on Amazon in paperback and hardcover, these books aim to equip readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and protect themselves in today’s digital world.
Diaspora Watch reports that “Intro to Cybersecurity: Guide for Beginners” is a comprehensive resource that simplifies complex cybersecurity topics, offering step-by-step guidance for individuals, families, and small businesses. Readers will learn practical tips for creating strong passwords, enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), managing IoT devices, and defending against threats like malware and phishing.
The book also explores mobile security, incident response, and pathways for pursuing cybersecurity careers, making it an accessible resource for anyone seeking to improve their digital safety. Wreh’s expertise and experience in the field shine through in this book, pro-viding readers with a solid foundation in cybersecurity principles.
In “Cyber Scams: Don’t Be A Victim”, Wreh exposes common online scams, including phishing, romance fraud, and malware attacks. Using real-world examples, including her personal experiences, she equips readers with tools to detect red flags, protect sensitive in-formation, and recover from breaches.
Highlighting the staggering $10 billion lost to cyber scams in 2023, Wreh provides actionable strategies to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals in today’s digital landscape. Her expertise and in-sights in this book are in-valuable, helping readers to develop a deeper under-standing of the tactics used by cyber scammers and how to protect themselves.
Kimma Wreh, a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), draws on over 15 years of expertise in cybersecurity and digital literacy. She is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of Excel Global Media Group Inc. and a Principal Consultant at Excel TeKay LLC.
“I want readers to feel confident about their digital safety and see cybersecurity as something they can master,” said Wreh. Her passion for empowering individuals and businesses to take control of their digital safety is evident throughout both books.
Both “Intro to Cybersecurity: Guide for Beginners” and “Cyber Scams: Don’t Be A Victim” are available now on Amazon.
Maureen Obih – Diaspora Diva
EXCEL International African Market
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 33 – January 13-19, 2025
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Revolutionary mRNA Lung Cancer Vaccine Trial Offers New Hope To Thousands
