Namibia: Are Politics and Profit Behind Plans to Cull Elephants?

Christine Donaldson/Unsplash

A herd of elephants in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe.

16 October 2024

allAfrica.com

By Adam Cruise

The decisions made by the Namibian and Zimbabwean governments to slaughter hundreds of elephants amid a widespread drought will do very little to address the effects of human hunger or alleviate human-elephant conflict. So why are they really doing it? A real motive may be a thinly-veiled desire to make a profit… from selling ivory.

Both governments claimed that the culling of elephants will provide the much-needed source of food for hungry citizens facing starvation from the worst drought in decades. They have also claimed that they have more than enough elephants (in Zimbabwe’s statement it’s "too many elephants”) and that the cull will alleviate ongoing human-elephant conflict situations.

However, Namibia and Zimbabwe have been accused of conflating issues  of elephant management, nutrition for drought-stricken villagers, and reducing human-wildlife conflict to create a smokescreen for the real motive behind the culls.

Elephant meat will not address widespread hunger

According to the Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee (ZIMLAC) about six million people in rural areas – more than half the country’s population – will need food assistance between now and the next harvest. In a press statement  , the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), an organisation for climate justice, wildlife conservation, land and human rights, and environmental integrity in Zimbabwe, states that meat from the proposed cull  will not come anywhere near filling the food deficit. CNRG maintain instead that a “robust, well-thought-out and sustainable strategy to feed the hungry population is required".

CNRG further notes that Zimbabwe’s staple food remains maize, supplemented by other small grains such as corn, sorghum, finger millet, wheat, and rice. This is what makes the difference between starvation and food security, not elephant meat. The same factors are true for Namibia where almost half a million people  are facing high food insecurity. The organisation believes it would be better to Intensify international appeals for humanitarian aid to feed the drought-stricken population.

Elephant biologist Keith Lindsay says that the cull "is very likely to create a continuing demand on vulnerable wildlife populations that would be unsustainable in the dwindling areas of natural habitat. Wildlife cannot become a replacement for agricultural production such as crops and livestock, as its productivity is much more susceptible to the effects of variable seasonal conditions than the animal populations under human husbandry and protection. This vulnerability is only likely to increase as climate change brings patterns of ever more extreme weather events."

Furthermore, culling is likely to increase demands for elephant meat from those not benefitting, which is likely to increase the poaching of elephants.

It is highly implausible that culling certain elephants will also address human-elephant conflict issues. If anything, the problem could be exacerbated as elephants become more aggressive in the face of lethal action against them.  Studies have suggested that any disturbance in local populations such as poaching, hunting, and culling heightens the aggression of elephants. More proactive measures, such as effective protection of agriculture and infrastructure, the growing of elephant-compatible crops, and land use for elephant corridors and elephant-free areas, exist and should be instituted instead of destructive lethal approaches.

Severe implications for elephants

The culls will have serious implications for elephants as they will set precedents and create expectations that will be nearly impossible to manage. Communities not benefitting from these culls may well call for culls in their areas too, or possibly even take the law into their own hands. Both species of African elephants are declining. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) African Elephant Status Report documents a decline of 30 percent (or 111,000) of African savannah elephants. There are already unsustainably high levels of poaching in the southern African region and studies have suggested that the elephant populations are declining.

In Namibia’s northwest, the desert-adapted population size of elephants is dangerously low  - only 62 elephants exist near where the Namibian government earmarked 21 elephants to cull. That would push the population to a point where they may never recover.

Botswana may join in the cull

Following Namibia and Zimbabwe’s announcement to cull elephants, Botswana may soon decide to join the fray. The country’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi said:  "If our people are starving, we have a duty to feed them... In that respect, I'm sorry: we have no choice but to feed our people with some, if not all, of these elephants."

Masisi was speaking to journalists before the Conference on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) Elephant Dialogue Meeting held in Maun where Botswana hosted delegates from 33 African elephant range states for behind-closed-doors talks on the trade in live elephants and other elephant-related issues.

The discussion on the trade in live elephants also raises several red flags. After the export of 144 wild-caught elephants from Zimbabwe and 46 from Namibia to zoos in countries outside of Africa in the past decade, CITES halted the practice in November 2022 citing that the exports did not benefit the conservation of African elephants in the wild.

While Zimbabwe has successfully been exporting live elephants, mainly to China, for years, live elephant exports beyond the natural range are prohibited in South Africa under the National Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants. Namibia, like Zimbabwe, is in favour of exporting elephants internationally but they have been prevented by CITES under an annotation preventing the export live elephants outside Africa. However, in 2021, Namibia successfully exploited a loophole in the CITES regulations to export 22 elephants to a couple of zoos in the UAE. The country originally stated they were to capture 170 elephants (interestingly from the same areas as earmarked for the current culls).

The meeting ended without a definitive outcome which will likely be determined at the next CITES Conference of the Parties in November 2025. For now, at least, elephants may not be exported beyond their range states.

The real reason

The governments of Namibia and Zimbabwe (and possibly Botswana) know that culling or trading in live elephants will do little to solve the drought-related problems, which is why the question of "the real reason" behind the cull was raised. While Namibia’s reason may also be politically motivated in light of an upcoming election in November, all three countries have long pushed for a resumption of the lifting of the restrictions on the international trade in ivory.

The three governments have also threatened to leave CITES if the ban is not lifted. The countries house sizeable stockpiles of ivory. A few more hundred tusks from the cull will increase the size and value of those stockpiles considerably.  The threat to leave CITES, however, is just a case of saber-rattling. The countries are well aware that if they leave, they will not be able to trade with any CITES-member country (which is practically all countries of the world) in any species, of animal or plant - not only elephants. This means that the likelihood of their leaving the Convention is essentially nil.

Furthermore, the countries are substantially overstating the value of their stockpiles.  Zimbabwe said   that it has an ivory stockpile of 130 tonnes, worth US$600-million, which is an unrealistic figure of more than US$4,600/kg. According to a UN report  , ivory prices average around US$150/kg. Therefore, a  more realistic valuation   of Zimbabwe’s ivory stockpiles would give a potential income of US$19.5-million. This is a 30th of Zimbabwe’s estimate. It is still a sizeable sum, but again one that will do little to solve the hunger crisis in the long-term.

At the Conference of the Parties in November 2025, CITES will vote on whether to open the ivory trade. This is unlikely given that the CITES annotations permitting future sales of ivory stockpiles were removed at the Botswana conference. These countries hope to make a tidy profit if the vote is won but they will need a two-thirds majority, as in the past when the southern African countries successfully petitioned to sell off their ivory stockpiles.

If the vote goes the way of those in favour of culling elephants, the floodgates for ivory poaching will open and Africa may see another 100,000 elephants wiped out in just a few years.

Dr Adam Cruise is an award-winning South African investigative journalist and academic who conducted extensive research on conservation and rural community development practices in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe Closing the Gap - How Rural Africa is Fighting for Internet Access

(file photo)

16 October 2024

allAfrica.com

By Sethi Ncube

In most small villages in rural Zimbabwe, school-going children and teachers walk several kilometres daily to the nearest towns in search of an Internet connection to complete their work. These villages, like many others on the continent, remain largely disconnected from the digital world, leaving students like with limited access to online learning resources.

For millions across the continent, Internet access is more than just a luxury - it’s an important tool for education, economic opportunities, and a source of communication.

In Africa, the gap in digital access between cities and rural areas is wide. While big cities in countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria have stronger Internet networks, rural communities are often left behind, creating a system where some have better access than others. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), only 28% of Africa's urban population has access to the Internet, and in rural areas, this figure drops even lower.

For Africans who live in rural areas, poor Internet access isn't just an inconvenience - it keeps people in poverty, blocks access to important information, and limits access to opportunities.

In Sub-Saharan Africa, where farming is the main source of income, Internet access helps farmers get important updates on weather, market prices, and better farming methods. Without it, rural farmers struggle to compete and adapt to the climate crisis.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, as schools moved online, students in rural areas without internet were suddenly cut off from learning, increasing the education gap between rural and urban students. For women and girls, who already face more barriers to education, the lack of connectivity makes things even harder.

“In this age of digital evolution, internet access is as essential as electricity or clean water. It’s no longer a privilege but a basic human right,” says Walter Moyo, a coding instructor and advocate for digital inclusion in Zimbabwe. “Without Internet, we can not reach the students in the rural communities. Those guys are excluded from the information economy and denied opportunities to improve their lives.”

Moyo says more people around the world now see internet access as a basic right, with governments, organisations, and international groups recognising its importance for development.

In 2021, the United Nations Human Rights Council declared that "the same rights that people have offline must also be protected online", calling for countries to make efforts to provide affordable internet access for all. For Africa, this is especially relevant, as the continent could gain a lot if the Internet could be made more accessible.

Providing universal internet access in rural Africa is proving to be a tough challenge as it needs a lot of investment in infrastructure, especially in places already grappling with unreliable or no electricity. Private telecommunications companies often see these areas as unprofitable, so governments and NGOs must step in. However, the high cost of building this infrastructure and political challenges have slowed down progress.

Despite these challenges, efforts in Africa are making progress in closing the digital gap. Public-private partnerships play an important role in promoting digital inclusion, for example, Facebook’s Express Wi-Fi initiative has teamed up with local businesses to provide affordable Internet access in several African countries.

Governments are realising that digital inclusion is important in national development. Rwanda, seen as a leader in internet connectivity, launched a plan to improve broadband access nationwide, including in rural areas. Through initiatives like the 'Smart Rwanda Master Plan' and Connect Rwanda 2.0, the government aims to provide internet access to all schools and public institutions and encourages private sector investment in rural connectivity.

NGOs are also crucial in helping rural communities access the internet. Organizations like the Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) -https://a4ai.org/- push for policy changes that promote affordable Internet access and work with governments to lower data costs. Other initiatives, such as the Digital Ambassadors Program in Rwanda, train young people to teach digital skills and internet use in rural areas, enabling them to take advantage of new online opportunities.

Closing the digital gap in Africa needs solutions that involve policy changes and investment in infrastructure. Governments should make internet access a priority in their development plans and work together with the international community to fix infrastructure challenges in rural areas. Affordable data prices and public awareness campaigns are needed to ensure that even the poorest communities can benefit from Internet connectivity.

As Africa continues to grow and develop, the Internet will play an important role in shaping its future. Access to the digital world can empower rural communities, unlock new economic opportunities, and bring about innovation. But for this vision to become a reality, stakeholders - governments, private companies, and civil society - must work together to ensure that internet access becomes a universal right for all Africans, not just a select few.

For millions in rural Africa, the dream of a connected world remains out of reach, but with the right investments and laws, the digital gap can be closed, unlocking new opportunities for education, economic growth, and social inclusion.

Russia-Bound Zimbabwe Envoy Aims to Broaden Ties

17 October 2024

The Herald (Harare)

By Blessings Chidakwa

Zimbabwe is committed to maintaining and upscaling excellent relations with Russia, the country's Ambassador-designate to Moscow Grey Marongwe said yesterday.

Ambassador Marongwe, who bade President Mnangagwa farewell at the State House yesterday, said Zimbabwe and Russia had so much that binds them together in geopolitics, economic trade and human capital development.

"As you are aware an ambassador must ensure good relations between the sending and receiving countries. The Russian Federation is one of our strong allies in global affairs. I feel honoured to be appointed to serve Zimbabwe in the capacity of Ambassador," he said.

Zimbabwe and Russia have strong historical and solid bilateral bonds. That relationship has since matured to economic cooperation informed largely by President Mnangagwa's economic diplomacy thrust.

Ambassador Mark Grey Marongwe

Ambassador Marongwe said it was a privilege to continue serving his nation after almost three decades of service in Government.

"I am not new to serving the country. I think I am one of the longest-serving people in Government, probably up to 30 years," he said.

"My first mission was Washington DC, then Mozambique, then Congo and then Kuwait where I was covering the whole Arabian Peninsula. I then became Secretary for Defence and War Veterans Affairs."

In a parting shot, Ambassador Marongwe said he could not wait for his Russian assignment.

"I can't be seen walking the streets of Harare after having been given an assignment".

Relations between Russia and Zimbabwe developed during the country's struggle for independence and have grown solidly over the years.

Read the original article on The Herald.

Zimbabwe 'Land Policy to Identify Multiple Farm Ownership'

17 October 2024

The Herald (Harare)

By Conrad Mupesa, Mashonaland West Bureau

The new land tenure policy is set to expose multiple farm ownership and identify idle land that will then benefit more than 250 000 people on the Government waiting list, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi has said.

Government last week announced that beneficiaries of land reform will now receive bankable, registrable, and transferable tenure for their land.

This marks a historic shift towards a secure tenure as farmers will now get enhanced security of tenure to the land to unlock value.

The post-2000 land reform was carried out to divest ownership of agricultural land from the minority white farmers to the black majority people of Zimbabwe and so address social and economic imbalances that existed during the colonial era and to ensure that every Zimbabwean had equitable access to this finite resource.

To further transform the programme and move away from the original reform process, an indefinite moratorium on the issue of any new 99-year leases, offer letters and permits for agricultural land was announced last week.

In an interview, Minister Ziyambi said Zimbabwe's land was, according to experts, a dead asset whose economic value was not fully exploited.

The new policy on agricultural land measures would have a huge impact on Zimbabwe's economic growth and was expected to unlock the full value of the land.

It was also expected to ensure more people would be allocated farmland in an impending land redistribution after the completion of the survey and subsequent issuance of bankable, registrable and transferable tenure certificates.

Minister Ziyambi said the policy would help expose those with multiple farms, idle land and underused farms.

"This will also deal with the issue of one person owning more than one farm and through an audit and title survey will also help to unveil some idle land.

"People should be happy that it will now be easy to find where there is a vacant piece of land. This is a new system on land allocation with no window for corrupt allocations. Those who had multiple farms are set to lose the other ones," he said.

"The President proclaimed a new land tenure policy which is a game changer as it now puts value on the land owned by an indigenous person who benefited from the land. Before this, the land we had was just a dead asset as no value could be affixed to it since the person who was using the land had no exclusive rights to the land and could not approach banks to get financial assistance for his operations, which this policy is correcting," he said.

The new land tenure policy would also protect beneficiaries of land reform from dispossession.

There were a few cases where some vulnerable groups were dispossessed of their farms by land barons, but these would be redressed.

"We had instances where officials from the Agriculture Ministry would withdraw offer letters of some of the land owners and corruptly allocate the land to others in the guise of land replanning. This policy will put to end corrupt tendencies which were being done by corrupt land officers and through some Ministry offices."

Minister Ziyambi also dispelled claims by some "misguided individuals" that suggested the land reform was reversible.

"This move aims to stamp further that land reform is irreversible. But let me also hasten to say that surveying the land will address challenges that were arising from the system we were using before. Land officers and some officials in the offices of Ministers of State were making a killing distributing land, even that of war veterans."

A technical committee, the Land Tenure Implementation Committee, which would co-ordinate and steer the implementation of this process, is going to be set up to work diligently in developing improved security of tenure for land beneficiaries while ensuring that the value of agricultural and urban State land was fully unlocked to guarantee inclusive and nationwide economic development.

The new measures were aimed at addressing challenges Zimbabwean farmers faced, including access to financing, the absence of security of tenure and threats to land tenure.

Addressing journalists during a post-Cabinet briefing last Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere said the policy will facilitate accelerated investments in agriculture and associated value chains, which include irrigation, dam construction, power supply, and rural road construction.

"The economic value enhancement on land will further unlock resources for the fulfilment of Constitutional obligations related to land reform.

"All these measures will complement current efforts towards an upper middle-income economy, which will be achieved by 2030," Dr Muswere said.

Read the original article on The Herald.

Illegal Sanctions, Zimbabwe's Breakaway From Western Traditions

17 October 2024

The Herald (Harare)

By Tapiwa Muruviwa, Correspondent

Zimbabwe's socio-economic challenges reveal how Western powers have historically exploited Africa, as described in Walter Rodney's book "How Europe Underdeveloped Africa".

In the quest for decolonisation, Zimbabwe embarked on the Land Reform Programme, which benefited many landless black majority who had been deprived of their right to their natural resources. Zimbabwe was punished with sanctions and this evidently demonstrates how peripheral economies are often paralysed and deprived of the ability to make independent policy choices.

In solidarity with Zimbabwe, the 39th SADC Summit of the Heads of State and Government, held in Tanzania, in August 2019, declared October 25 of each year as the day of team spirit against the illegal western imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe. This was after a realisation that sanctions are everybody's business and the turbulence disturbs not only the people of Zimbabwe, but the whole of the African continent.

In the late 80s, Zimbabwe had to abandon its socialist agenda in pursuit of neo-liberal market-based policies, which were introduced by the Bretton Woods institutions that includes, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank (WB) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

To secure financial loans, Zimbabwe had in 1990, accepted and adopted neo-liberal values and practices through the Economic Structural Adjustment Programmes (ESAP).

The structural adjustment programmes consisted of financial loans by the IMF, WTO and World Bank directed mainly, to developing countries that had experienced economic crisis. Zimbabwe like all other post-colonial African states was required to implement a series of conditions, which covered every facet of the economy as a prerequisite to obtain financial loans.

The conditions included among others, trade liberalisation, devaluation of the local currency and opening up trade through removing protective restrictions such as import tariffs.

However, the adoption of the neo-liberal policies did not yield any better results. Zimbabwe experienced socio-economic turbulence characterised by, high rate of job losses, soaring rates, hyperinflation as well as reduction of state funding to education and health sectors.

More so, the policies largely subjected Zimbabwe into a debt trap and this compelled the country to introduce nationalist policies in quest for political and economic independence.

Advent of sanctions on Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe's internal politics from the year 2000, was pigeon-holed as the period of Zimbabwe's defiance to neo-liberalism.

In 2001, the country embarked on a Fast Track Land Reform Programme (FTLRP), which redistributed land from white commercial farmers to the indigenous Zimbabwean black people.

Nonetheless, the land reform exercise was politicised and demonised by the US and its allies who abruptly imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe.

The country's financial assistance from the international financial institutions immediately ceased. Zimbabwe was isolated from the international community leading to the breakdown of relations between Zimbabwe and the West.

Sanctions on Zimbabwe were enacted by the US in 2001, through the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZIDERA). The US Congress, put in place restrictive measures and withheld all the financial funding that was previously provided by the European Union (EU) to Zimbabwe.

In the same way, in 2002, the European Union joined the wagon and imposed targeted sanctions on Zimbabwe. Along the way, in 2014, some of the EU's sanctions were relaxed but some senior Government officials, service chiefs and arms restriction are still in place.

Repercussions of sanctions on Zimbabwe

The repercussions of these sanctions on Zimbabwe's socio-economic and political systems cannot be disputed.

For years, the world watched with apparent nonchalance as Zimbabwe endured the ills of sanctions.

The country has lost billions of dollars in potential revenue, and some of the gains that the country had achieved in sectors of the economy have been severely reversed.

The worsening socio-economic turbulence has resulted in high levels of brain drain as skilled workforce often migrate to neighbouring countries.

Internationally, Zimbabwe is isolated and it is restricted to access any financial loans and credits from the IMF and World Bank. This has subsequently resulted in the country failing to meet its international obligations and increased payment arrears.

Sanctions have affected all the facets of Zimbabwe's political and economic systems, and negatively affected all Zimbabweans in many ways. The above illustrations demonstrate how Zimbabwe like all other post-colonial African states are paralysed and deprived of the ability to make independent policy choices.

As such, African leaders and some sections of the society alike have criticised the weaponisation of sanctions in the internal affairs of African states.

It is amidst these realities of Zimbabwean politics that some scholars argue that, for years western prescriptions have not worked and Zimbabwe should play a leading role in charting its own independent national-development trajectory.

Strategies to counter sanctions

To counter sanctions, the key idea that has been evolving over the years is the paradigm of "engagement and re-engagement". Since assuming office in 2017, the Second Republic's administration, under the leadership of President Mnangagwa has called for re-engagement with western powers.

The change of language, and conceptual approach is critical; it often creates constructive re-engagement platforms, which after so many years are showing potential for the removal of all sanctions.

Most importantly, the availability of notable and encouraging headways for instance, Zimbabwe's possible readmission in the Commonwealth and its participation in multilateral summits, unequivocally makes an important case for Zimbabwe to persist on this pathway.

Likewise, Zimbabwe can take advantage of President Mnangagwa's SADC Chairmanship position to garner collective support from African counterparts and allies across the world, and amplify a coordinated diplomatic push for the removal of all sanctions.

On the other hand, it is prudent for Zimbabwe to create its own ideological narrative. An anti-dependency thinking infused with decolonisation underpinnings is what is needed to effectively counter the ills of western-imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe.

The country needs to do things differently, it has to control the narrative, and its direction. Zimbabwe should de-link and discontinue reliance on Bretton Woods institutions.

Scholars such as Robert Cox argue that the US-led financial power has been institutionalised by the setting-up of the Bretton Woods Institutions, to consolidate the global power of financial capital in the hands of the US and its allies.

These financial institutions exercise their power through offering loans and credits.

They are linked to free trade, which is a global capitalist project that keeps post-colonial African states like Zimbabwe from becoming industrialised and accumulate financial capital.

Zimbabweans should know that, international financial institutions are part of the neo-liberal tradition of exercising financial power in loans. They constrain Zimbabwe's ability to act independently.

In light of this, a national vision and strong political consciousness is needed to counter the hegemonic power of financial capital, and this has been suitably reflected by the Second Republic.

The President's "Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo", mantra has promoted industrialisation.

An industrialised and modernised Zimbabwe will steadily counter the effects of sanctions on Zimbabwe.

In the same breath, the call for de-linking resonates with the declarations made at the SADC 2024 Public Lecture themed "Building Research Capacity and Innovation Ecosystems for a Sustainable Industrialised SADC economy".

The SADC Chairman, President Mnangagwa invoked decolonisation connotations as he berated the issue of perpetual dependency.

President Mnangagwa urged his counterparts to collectively count on their own capabilities to drive growth and development.

Such an obligation is a significant step in the right direction; countering western influences and spearheading progressive home-grown initiatives. There is also need to create an alternative to counter pressure from western allies.

Zimbabwe can join the BRICS alliance that is pro South-South cooperation.

Such an alliance will provide a safe haven for Zimbabwe. The country will be able access the much needed investments, and enhanced trade with other counterparts.

Longstanding allies such as China and Russia can use their economic prowess to stimulate Zimbabwe's economy.

Read the original article on The Herald.

Zimbabwe Mbare Musika Springs Back to Life

The massive fire at Mbare Musika, the country's largest marketplace destroyed goods worth hundreds of thousands of dollars and left hundreds of traders without a source of income.

14 October 2024

The Herald (Harare)

By Trust Freddy

Some traders at Mbare Musika resumed business yesterday, operating from temporary stalls demarcated by pillars, while a pre-cast wall was being erected as business reopened just days after a fire broke out.

Several of them managed to bounce back, but their current stock levels were low.

In separate interviews, they welcomed the Government's initiative of non-collateral loans, but stressed the need for immediate assistance from the business community and well-wishers.

"We survive hand-to-mouth, so we need immediate assistance from well-wishers," a trader who only identified himself as Tinashe said.

Ms Eunice Machingarufu, of Chitungwiza, said some of the traders were stuck at home, unsure of how to restart.

"Some well-wishers generously provided funds to help me resume business, but many of my fellow traders are stuck at home. I had stock valued at nearly US$3 000, but now I'm left with just a few items to sell."

Mr Tapiwa Njeke said his recovery was made possible by a small loan from a friend.

"I borrowed from a friend to buy two bags of kapenta fish, just to get back on my feet," he said.

"However, I'm still seeking additional funds."

Another trader, Ms Makahwei Ndoro, said: "We urgently appeal to generous business leaders like Mr Wicknell Chivayo and Mr Strive Masiyiwa to support our market's rebuilding efforts. With the rainy season nearing, our dream is to have a sheltered marketplace by its onset."

The traders said they collectively contributed US$10 each towards the construction of the pre-cast wall, which is expected to be completed by tomorrow.

Read the original article on The Herald.

Suspension of Flights Causes Deep Crisis for Israeli Aviation Sector

By Al Mayadeen English

Refusing to fly over dangerous Israeli-occupied airspace, international airways are extending their suspension of flights to the area.

Non-Israeli airlines continue to postpone their flights to and from Israeli-occupied territories, significantly impacting travel to the region, Israeli daily business and economics newspaper Calcalist reported.

Notably, British Airways announced today that it will not resume its flights to Israeli-occupied airports until the end of March 2025, having halted operations at the beginning of August.

Meanwhile, the Lufthansa Group has decided to extend the suspension of its flights until November 10, following a recent assessment of the situation. This group includes Austrian Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, and Brussels Airlines, with its subsidiary, Eurowings, also pausing flights until November 30.

Currently, only about 20 foreign airlines are operating at Israeli-occupied airports, highlighting the significant reduction in international travel options.

In the past few days, additional airlines have announced their own extensions of flight suspensions. Polish LOT has pushed its suspension until November 12, Greek Aegean Airlines until November 5, and Air Baltic and ITA until the end of November. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is set to halt its flights until the end of December, while popular low-cost airline Wizz Air has extended its suspension until mid-January.

Unprecedented aviation crisis

Calcalist also noted that the escalating crisis in Israeli aviation, spurred by the ongoing deterioration of security, is sending shockwaves through the industry. The situation has made it increasingly difficult to export goods and import essential raw materials needed for production processes in local factories.

The sharp decline in the number of foreign airlines operating in the area has led to a drastic reduction in passenger flights and severely impacted air cargo transportation. Last year, air transport costs surged by approximately 200%, and alongside rising prices, the availability of flights has diminished significantly, particularly in the last two months.

Additionally, shipments of goods and raw materials intended for Israeli companies have become stuck in airports worldwide for weeks. Local exporters, tasked with delivering products to customers abroad, are struggling to find available flights to meet their delivery commitments.

Industry officials have characterized the chaos in air transport as unprecedented, resulting in delays and disruptions in production and product deliveries. This turmoil is damaging manufacturers' reputations and competitiveness, leading to the loss of customers, new contracts, and revenue.

Israeli assassination policies put economy at risk 

The ongoing war on Gaza and subsequent confrontations on multiple other fronts have further compounded the challenges the Israeli aviation industry is facing. The crisis worsened in late July when numerous airlines still operating in the region announced the suspension of flights following the targeted assassination of Hezbollah commander martyr Fouad Shukr in Beirut and Hamas political bureau head martyr Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

Currently, the bulk of aviation activity relies on local airlines — such as El Al, Arkia, and Israir — which continue to operate but are overwhelmed by demand. Their limited fleets are struggling to meet the growing market needs for air cargo transport.

Senior officials in the industry have reported that the reduction in aviation activity over the past year has led to a significant increase in air transport costs, rising from around 3 euros ($3.26) per kilogram of goods to approximately 9 euros ($9.77). They warn that continued supply declines, coupled with rising demand, could further inflate prices.

Amid preparations for a potential attack on Iran following a barrage of missiles fired at Israel, the industry is concerned that any further deterioration in security could exacerbate the situation. One exporter expressed deep concern over the cyclical nature of war, highlighting the economy’s vulnerability in the face of worsening conditions and a lack of viable solutions.

Leaked US Files Detail Preparations for Israeli Strike on Iran

By Al Mayadeen English

Source: News websites

20 Oct 2024 22:44

Top secret documents have revealed the details behind Israeli Air Force preparations for a strike on Iran, which includes dozens of stand-off missiles, including a secret ALBM weapon.

Leaked documents attributed to the American National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), regarding Israeli preparation for an attack on Iran have spurred fear among both American and Israeli officials after the highly sensitive information was made public. 

The agency focuses on providing geospatial intelligence (GEOINT), which can be collected via satellite or aircraft, by the United States Department of Defense.

Documents published by Middle East Spectator, a Telegram Channel focused on Middle East related news, where originally sourced from an alleged whistleblower within the Pentagon, who shared the documents on a private Telegram group. 

Although Middle East Spectator said it is unable to determine the authenticity of the documents, the Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, has confirmed that the American intelligence community is investigating the incident.

"The leak is very concerning. There’s some serious allegations being made there, an investigation underway, and I’ll get a briefing on that in a couple of hours," Johnson told CNN. 

These documents were marked top secret and are marked FVEY (Five Eyes), meaning they are only meant to be viewed by authorities in the US, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. 

So what do the documents entail?

The top secret information details the supposed preparation of the Israeli Air Force for a strike against Iran. 

The first document, published on October 15-16, 2024, is titled "Israel: Air Force Continues Preparation for Strike on Iran and Conducts a Second Large-Force Employment Exercise," and follows up on similar information gathered on October 13, 2024. 

In detail, the Israeli Air Force conducted its second large force employment (LFE) exercise from October 15 to October 16, following up on an LFE exercise conducted on October 13. 

Additionally, the Air Force handeled air-launched ballistic missiles (ALBMs) and conducted cover unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations. 

In this context, 16 Golden Horizon ALBMs and 40 Rocks stand-off air-launched missiles, and other weapons were being handled in the Hatserim Airbase, Ramat David Airbase, and the Ramon Airbase. 

Air refueling and other reconnaissance aircraft were also operated during that time. 

The second document assesses the weapons handling, air defense, air operations, nuclear and missile facilities, special forces, and the Navy by Israeli occupation forces. 

It deemed that the level of weapons handling of ALBMs is medium, while precision-guided munitions handling was low. It also focused on the use of nuclear-capable missiles, the Jericho II in particular, and the use of nuclear facilities, saying that no significant activities were recorded on October 16. 

A serious breach

Mick Mulroy, a former US defense official, told CNN that if the leak is true, this means that the Israeli tactical plans to attack Iran have been leaked, marking a "serious breach".

"The future coordination between the US and Israel could be challenged as well. Trust is a key component in the relationship, and depending on how this was leaked that trust could be eroded," he underlined. 

On the other hand, an Israeli Member of the Knesset on behalf of Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud Party, Tally Gotliv, accused the US of purposefully leaking the documents. 

She said that the incident "was not done by accident."

"The leaking of the documents was done deliberately to prevent Israel and to hinder Israel from attacking Iran," she claimed, accusing the Biden administration of being "Iran's puppet."

Situation in Kursk Region

Aviation, artillery and missile troops continued to defeat manpower and equipment of the Ukrainian armed forces in the Kursk region, as well as their reserves in the Sumy region

© Mikhail Klimentyev/TASS

MOSCOW, October 20. /TASS/. Over the past 24 hours, Russian troops defeated eight brigades of the Ukrainian armed forces) in the Kursk region and continued their offensive operations, the Russian Defense Ministry reported.

The daily losses of the Ukrainian armed forces in the Kursk direction amounted to over 310 people and nine armored vehicles. In total, since the beginning of hostilities, the enemy has lost more than 25,000 servicemen.

TASS has assembled the main information about the situation in the Kursk region

Advancement in operation to destroy Ukrainian forces’ units

- Units of the Russian Battlegroup North continued to conduct offensive operations, during which they defeated the units of the 22nd, 47th and 115th mechanized, 82nd and 95th airborne assault brigades, the 36th marine brigade, as well as the 103rd and 129th defense brigades of the Ukrainian armed forces in the areas of the settlements of Kolmakov, Kruglenkoye, Lyubimovka, Nizhny Klin, Novoivanovka, Novy Put, Plekhovo, Tolsty Lug, Cherkasskaya Konopelka and Cherkasskoye Porechnoye.

- Aviation, artillery and missile troops continued to defeat manpower and equipment of the Ukrainian armed forces in the Kursk region, as well as their reserves in the Sumy region.

Ukrainian army losses

- Over the past 24 hours, the Ukrainian armed forces have lost more than 310 people. Nine armored vehicles were destroyed, including an infantry fighting vehicle, an M113 armored personnel carrier, seven armored combat vehicles, as well as six guns and six cars, two Enclave electronic warfare systems and a counter-battery radar station.

- In total, during the fighting in the Kursk direction, the enemy lost more than 25,050 servicemen, 167 tanks, 83 infantry fighting vehicles, 103 armored personnel carriers, 964 armored combat vehicles, 660 cars, 210 artillery pieces.

Russia says its Mi-28NM helicopter destroyed Ukrainian armored vehicles in Kursk Region

The strike on the previously detected enemy targets were delivered with air-borne missiles

MOSCOW, October 20. /TASS/. An Mi-28NM helicopter destroyed a cluster of Ukrainian troops and armored vehicles near the border in the Kursk Region, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

"Army aviation crews flying an Mi-28NM helicopter struck Ukrainian manpower and armored military vehicles with air-borne missiles near the border in the Kursk Region. According to reports from the forward air controller, the Ukrainian personnel and armored military vehicles were destroyed," it said.

The strike on the previously detected enemy targets were delivered with air-borne missiles.

"After the use of air-borne weapons, the crew performed an anti-missile maneuver, released heat traps and returned to the base," the ministry said.

Russian Troops Liberate Zoryanoye Settlement in Donetsk People's Republic

Russian air defense systems also destroyed 31 aircraft-type UAVs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces over the past day, the Russian Defense Ministry reported

© Alexander Reka/TASS

MOSCOW, October 19. /TASS/. Russian troops have liberated the settlement of Zoryanoye in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), the Russian Defense Ministry reported.

"As a result of successful actions of units of Russia’s battlegroup South, Zoryanoye settlement in the Donetsk People's Republic has been liberated," the ministry said.

Russian Air Defense forces shoot 31 Ukrainian drones

Russian air defense systems destroyed 31 aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) of the Ukrainian Armed Forces over the past day, the Defense Ministry reported.

"Air defense systems shot down three US HIMARS missiles and 31 aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles," the ministry said.

Over the past 24 hours, Russian troops have also damaged fuel and energy infrastructure facilities and airfields of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. "Operational-tactical aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, missile troops, and artillery groups of the Russian Armed Forces damaged fuel and energy infrastructure facilities used in the interests of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, airfields, as well as concentrations of enemy personnel and military equipment in 138 areas," the report said.

The Russian Defense Ministry said that since the beginning of the special military operation, a total of 646 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 33,824 unmanned aerial vehicles, 582 anti-aircraft missile systems, 18,735 tanks and other armored combat vehicles, 1,477 multiple launch rocket systems, 16,372 field artillery pieces and mortars, and 27,407 special military vehicles have been destroyed.

South battlegroup

At the same time, Russia’s South battlegroup defeated five enemy brigades in one day and the Ukrainian Armed Forces lost up to 830 servicemen. "The personnel and equipment of the 54th mechanized, 59th motorized infantry, 3rd, 10th mountain assault brigades of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the 119th territorial defense brigade were defeated in the areas of the settlements of Konstantinovka, Kurakhovo, Nikiforovka, and Zvanovka in the Donetsk People's Republic. Two counter-attacks of enemy assault groups were repulsed. One field ammunition depot was destroyed," the ministry said.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the Ukrainian Armed Forces lost up to 830 servicemen, two vehicles and two Anklav-N electronic warfare stations.

East battlegroup

Russia’s East battlegroup improved its tactical position and defeated two enemy brigades over the past day. The losses of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reached 115 servicemen, the Russian Defense Ministry reported.

"The units of Russia’s East battlegroup improved their tactical position. Formations of the 72nd mechanized brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the 127th territorial defense brigade were defeated in the areas of the settlements of Dobrovolye and Shakhtyorskoye in the Donetsk People's Republic," the ministry said.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the Ukrainian Armed Forces lost up to 115 servicemen, two vehicles, a 155-mm Paladin self-propelled artillery unit, a 155-mm Caesar self-propelled artillery unit, and a 155-mm Bogdana self-propelled artillery unit.

West battlegroup

At the same time, units of Russia’s West battlegroup repulsed three counter-attacks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, with the enemy's losses exceeding 350 servicemen.

"The joint forces of Russia’s West battlegroup have improved the situation along the front line. The personnel and equipment of the 53rd, 63rd, 67th mechanized brigades of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the 119th territorial defense brigade were defeated in the areas of the settlements of Novolyubovka, Chervonaya Dibrova in the Lugansk People's Republic, as well as Grigorovka in the Donetsk People's Republic. Three counterattacks of enemy assault groups were repelled," the Defense Ministry said.

The Russian Defense Ministry said the Ukrainian Armed Forces lost more than 350 servicemen, two vehicles, a 105mm L-119 gun, a 155mm M198 howitzer, and a 105mm M119 gun. "An Anklav-N electronic warfare station was also destroyed," the ministry added.

Center battlegroup

Russia’s Center battlegroup defeated six enemy brigades, the losses of the Armed Forces of Ukraine amounted to 460 servicemen over the past day, the ministry reported.

"Units of Russia’s Center battlegroup continued to advance into the depths of the enemy's defenses. Personnel and equipment of the 42nd, 93rd, 100th mechanized, 59th motorized, 142nd infantry brigades of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and the 1st brigade of the National Guard in the areas of the settlements of Sukhaya Balka, Krasnoarmeysk, Vozdvizhenka, Dzerzhinsk, Dimitrov, and Udachnoye of the Donetsk People's Republic were defeated. Five counterattacks of the Ukrainian armed forces' assault groups were repulsed," the ministry said.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the Ukrainian Armed Forces lost up to 460 servicemen, two vehicles, as well as a 122mm Grad multiple launch rocket system, two 122mm D-30 howitzers, and a 100mm Rapira gun. An enemy ammunition warehouse was also destroyed.

North battlegroup

At the same time, the Armed Forces of Ukraine lost up to 55 servicemen in the area of responsibility of Russia’s North battlegroup over the past day.

"Units of Russia’s North battlegroup inflicted losses on formations of the 57th motorized infantry brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the 125th territorial defense brigade in the Liptsov and Volchansk directions in the areas of the settlements of Volchansk and Liptsy in the Kharkov region. The enemy suffered 55 servicemen and two vehicles. One field ammunition depot was destroyed," the ministry said.

The losses of the Armed Forces of Ukraine over the past day amounted to 50 servicemen in the area of responsibility of Russia’s Dnepr battlegroup.

"Units of Russia’s Dnepr battlegroup inflicted losses on the personnel and equipment of the 150th mechanized brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the 34th naval brigade, the 121st, 124th territorial defense brigades, and the 3rd brigade of the National Guard in the areas of the settlements of Lobkovoe in the Zaporozhye region, Ilyinka in the Dnepropetrovsk region, Prydniprovskoe, Gavrilovka, and Korabelov islands in the Kherson region. The enemy's losses amounted to 50 servicemen and five vehicles," the report said.

US Will Consider Russia Adversary Regardless of Outcome of Its Elections — Lavrov

The Russian Foreign Minister also added that US President Joe Biden's statements on nuclear arms talks with Russia are aimed at helping Democratic Party candidate Kamala Harris in the upcoming presidential elections

Russia's Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov Mikhail Tereshchenko/TASS

© Mikhail Tereshchenko/TASS

MOSCOW, October 19. /TASS/. The United States will consider Russia as an adversary regardless of the results of its presidential elections, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in an interview with aif.ru.

"Regardless of the outcome of the elections, we will remain for the United States, if not an enemy, then certainly an adversary. In any case, a competitor" he said.

Lavrov also added that US President Joe Biden's statements on nuclear arms talks with Russia are aimed at helping Democratic Party candidate Kamala Harris in the upcoming presidential elections.

"This [Biden's statements about the talks] is a desire to score electoral points for the Democratic Party candidate," the minister said.

Earlier, US President Joe Biden announced his readiness to negotiate with Russia, China, and North Korea on reducing nuclear weapons without preconditions.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov pointed out that the US is calling on Russia to negotiate on strategic stability without preconditions in order to try to secure unilateral military advantages, but Moscow is categorically against it.

The presidential elections in the United States will be held on November 5. The Democratic Party was expected to be represented by incumbent President Joe Biden. However, after his disastrous performance in the June televised debates with Donald Trump, who later became the Republican nominee, Biden was forced to drop out of the race under pressure from his fellow party members. He endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, who was confirmed as the Democratic presidential nominee in August.

Niger Drops French Place Names to Honour Local Heroes

Avenue Charles de Gaulle in the capital, Niamey, is now Avenue Djibo Bakary.

by BBC NEWS

17 October 2024 - 09:10

In Summary

Niger's relationship with France and other Western allies deteriorated after President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted in a coup last year.

Like its military-led neighbours, Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger has courted Russia for military support as a jihadist insurgency threatens the region - and the three countries have clubbed together to form what they call the Alliance of Sahel States.

Niger’s military leaders have renamed streets and monuments bearing French names, in the latest move to cut links with the country’s former colonial power.

Avenue Charles de Gaulle in the capital, Niamey, is now Avenue Djibo Bakary in honour of the Nigerien politician who played a key role in the West African country’s struggle for independence.

"Most of our avenues, boulevards and streets... bear names that are simply reminders of the suffering and bullying our people endured during the ordeal of colonisation," said junta spokesman Maj Col Abdramane Amadou.

Niger's relationship with France and other Western allies deteriorated after President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted in a coup last year.

Like its military-led neighbours, Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger has courted Russia for military support as a jihadist insurgency threatens the region - and the three countries have clubbed together to form what they call the Alliance of Sahel States.

Under Bazoum, France had more than 1,500 troops stationed in Niger to help fight jihadist groups linked to both al-Qaeda and Islamic State. They all withdrew by the end of last year.

A ceremony was held in Niamey on Tuesday to mark the various name changes, including the avenue once named after a French general, as well as a war memorial that was built to remember those who died in World War One and World War Two.

It now pays "homage to all civilian and military victims of colonisation to the present day".

Charles de Gaulle was a soldier and politician who formed a French government in exile during World War Two when the Nazi German forces overran France. He became leader of the Free French Forces.

Many Africans in French colonies volunteered to fight for the Free French Forces, though many were also drafted into service.

About 400,000 came from Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia, and more than 70,000 from Senegal and other sub-Saharan colonies. They took part in the Allies' landings in the south of France in August 1944, which were crucial to ousting the Nazis from the area.

In fact as part of a reappraisal of its colonial past, France began to rename some of its streets and squares after African World War Two heroes four years ago.

Another place to have been given a facelift in Niamey is a stone monument that had an engraving of French colonial officer and explorer Parfait-Louis Monteil. He had travelled from Senegal in 1890 across West Africa, writing a book about his two-year journey.

His image has now been replaced by a plaque with a portrait of Burkina Faso's iconic revolutionary leader Thomas Sankara, a charismatic pan-Africanist who was assassinated in 1987.

During his time in power, he adopted an anti-imperialist foreign policy that challenged the dominance of France, which retained huge influence in many of its former colonies in Africa.

Another significant name change is Niamey's Place de La Francophonie, named after the group of French-speaking states.

Instead it will be known as Place de l'Alliance des Etats du Sahel, after the country's new confederation with Burkina Faso and Mali.

I Don't Feel Safe, Says Impeached Kenyan Deputy President Gachagua

Gachagua says there have been several attempts on his life and family

by Tabnacha Odeny

20 October 2024 - 14:35

In Summary

The impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that he is not safe as some people have been trying to kill him.

The embattled DP said some individuals have tried to poison his food and even monitored his communication during a tour of Kisumu two months ago.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at Karen Hospital

Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that he is not safe as some people have been trying to kill him.

The impeached DP was speaking outside Karen Hospital on Sunday after being discharged. Doctors have said that he will be under observation at home.

The embattled DP said some individuals have tried to poison his food and even monitored his communication during a tour of Kisumu two months ago.

"For the first time, let me say that on August 30, in Kisumu, undercover security entered my room in Kisumu and bugged it and one of them tried to poison my food, but we detected it and we were able to escape the scheme," Gachagua said.

"I was supposed to be killed by poisoning, and in September in Nyeri, another team came and tried to poison some food meant for me and the Kikuyu Council of Elders."

Gachagua further said he had to send away some intelligence officers in his office because he didn't feel safe.

"I did report this matter to the NIS and asked the officers assigned to my office to leave because I felt I was not safe. After the two assassination attempts failed, it is when this impeachment motion was hatched,” Gachagua said.

Earlier in the day, Gachagua wished the country well as it marks its 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations.

In a statement, Gachagua, who has skipped the event despite reports saying he would attend, also prayed for God’s blessings upon the country.

“Happy Mashujaa Day, dear Kenyans. God Bless our nation,” he said on X.

The celebrations are being held in Kwale County.

This comes a few days after he was impeached by the National Assembly and impeachment upheld by the Senate.

Senators voted to uphold at least five charges against Gachagua.

The motion of impeachment was tabled by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse in the National Assembly last week.

A total of 281 MPs voted in favour of the ouster motion against 44 who voted to save his young political career from sudden death.

Kenya Impeached Deputy President Gachagua Claims Two Assassination Attempts August and September

Says the first attempt was in Kisumu at the end of August and the second one was in Nyeri

by BRIAN ORUTA

20 October 2024 - 14:32

In Summary

Speaking after he was discharged from Karen Hospital on Sunday, Gachagua said the impeachment came after the assassinations by security agencies failed.

"On September 3, another team came to Nyeri and tried to poison food that was meant for me and the Kikuyu council of elders."

Impeached Deputy President Rigathi speaking at Karen Hospital on Sunday (PHOTO: SCREENGRAB)

Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua now claims that there were two failed assassination attempts on his life before the impeachment plan was hatched.

Speaking after he was discharged from Karen Hospital on Sunday, Gachagua said the impeachment came after the assassinations by security agencies failed.

He noted that the first attempt was in Kisumu at the end of August and the second attempt was in Nyeri just a few days later.

According to the former DP, he escaped the two assassination attempts because his team detected the poison. He noted that the second attempt was by the National Intelligence Service, which he reported.

“On August 30, in Kisumu, undercover security agents entered my room and bugged it and one of them tried to poison my food, but we detected it and were able to escape the scheme. I was supposed to be killed by food poisoning. “

"On September 3, another team from the National Intelligence Service came to Nyeri and tried to poison food that was meant for me and the Kikuyu council of elders.

"I did report this matter to the NIS and asked the officers assigned to my office to leave because I felt I was not safe. After the two assassination attempts failed, it is when this impeachment motion was hatched,” Gachagua said.

Kenyan Elected President of World Medical Association

Dr Kitulu is the former Kenya Medical Association president

by Allan Kisia

19 October 2024 - 19:47

In Summary

KMA is the umbrella professional association for doctors in Kenya.

The World Medical Association was founded in 1947 with the aim of promoting cooperation between medical organisations across the world.

Kenyan doctor Jacqueline Kitulu is the World Medical Association President-elect for 2025-26.

Breaking the news, the Kenya Medical Association (KMA) asked Kenyans to join them in congratulating Kitulu.

“Join us in congratulating Dr. Jacqueline Kitulu former KMA President and now the World Medical Associate President-elect 2025-26. We are global,” KMA said in a statement posted on X.

KMA is the umbrella professional association for doctors in Kenya. Kituli is the first female to chair the 50-year-old association.

She is also the second deputy governor of the Kenya Red Cross Society and sits on several other boards, such as; the Mater Misericordiae Hospital, the Kenya Coordinating Mechanism for Global Funds and the Kenya Consumer Protection Advisory Committee where she is the vice chair.

 Kitulu has been a family physician in private practice for the last 15 years.

She is an MBA Healthcare Management alumnus of Strathmore Business School and also holds a Bachelors’ Degree in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Nairobi.

The World Medical Association was founded in 1947 with the aim of promoting cooperation between medical organisations across the world.

Since then, its membership has grown from an initial 27 organisations to 95. Individual physicians may also become Associate Members of the WMA.

The WMA Council, which is composed of national representatives, convenes two times a year.

It passes resolutions and acts as an advisory body to the medical profession worldwide. Central to the role of the WMA is the physician-patient relationship and, above all, the issue of patient safety.

WMA is an integral part of most professional codes of practice in Germany, whereas the Declaration of Helsinki sets the benchmark for clinical trials on human beings and has been influential in the formation of German drug law.

The WMA’s International Code of Medical Ethics outlines the physician’s duties toward patients, other physicians, health professionals and society as a whole.

2, 000 Kenyan Journalists Laid Off in Last Five Years – MCK

MCK CEO Omwoyo says less than 50% of scribes who were employed five years ago are still in employment

by GEORGE OWITI

19 October 2024 - 15:42

In Summary

Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo said the Council remains committed to supporting journalists, media practitioners, and content creators in enhancing their skills.

Omwoyo said this is to ensure that journalists have jobs, whether attached to media houses or not.

Some 2, 000 journalists have been laid off by various media houses in the country in the last five years, Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo has said.

Omwoyo said less than 50 per cent of journalists who were employed five years ago are still in employment now. He said there are 15, 000 journalists accredited by the MCK.

“The layoffs aren’t the end of life; it’s just the beginning. When you leave a newsroom, it doesn’t mean you have now been condemned to die. It’s the media house that is unable to buy your content and skills,” Omwoyo said.

He addressed the press in Machakos County on Friday.

Omwoyo continued, “The consumers haven’t died and the world hasn’t stopped. If you are a professional journalist specializing in sports or agriculture, for instance, the fact that a media house is unable to sustain you doesn’t mean you have stopped being a journalist. Make sure you are a communication and journalism professional since you have a skill. You will live on this forever whether you are employed in a media house or not.

He presided over the official launch of the Content Management and Monetization Platform for Kenya’s press clubs.

Omwoyo said the Council remains committed to supporting journalists, media practitioners and content creators in enhancing their skills, monetizing content and advocating for the right to information in the digital age.

He said press clubs had become the new newsrooms over the past few years.

“Initially, we had newsrooms dedicated to media houses. Now, we have press clubs as working areas dedicated to several media houses. So, the 18 press clubs we have so far launched across the country allow journalists either working in media houses or as independent content producers to get working spaces, generate content, and monetise it."

"This means that you can get a story or any other content and distribute it to several channels to get income. So, launching this information portal is an avenue for training, exchange of information, monetization, negotiating with media houses and other consumers of the content,” Omwoyo said.

He said MCK was committed to pushing the clubs from 18 to about 50 or 100 in number in the next few years.

Omwoyo said this is to ensure that journalists have jobs, whether attached to media houses or not.

“There is someone who will consume the content you generate whether the person is within the region you are in, in Kenya or outside the country. So, by launching this information portal, training and monetization means that as an individual, you don’t need a media house to earn a salary at the end of the month. You just need to generate good quality content to sustain yourself,” he said.

He said the clubs offer adequate, reliable and safe spaces for journalists to work; hence, they don’t need to operate from hotel corridors or on fluctuating internet.

Omwoyo retaliated that Journalism, Media and Communications space had been invaded by what he termed charlatans and everyone, despite being a profession.

“Everybody thinks they can manage this. The noisemakers can’t manage journalism, media and communications. This is a professional skill; it takes training and skills to do it,” he said.

He said the Press club was turning out to be the bigger thing in that even if media houses were unable to consume journalists’ skills, one still has networks of journalists and media organisations.

“Join press clubs and you will never lose when your media house isn’t taking your content. You remain relevant as your content sells," Omwoyo said.

Mpox Spread Getting Out of Control, Africa CDC Warns

“If we continue with meetings and discussions, we will not succeed.”

by Allan Kisia

19 October 2024 - 15:46

In Summary

“I have to say it clearly, loudly that Mpox is getting out of control, if we do not act.”

On October 14, Health Director-General Patrick Amoth has confirmed the first Mpox death in the country.

The spread of Mpox virus in Africa is getting out of control, Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention Director General Jean Kaseya has warned.

In a message shared on X, Kaseya said cases of the diseases are increasingly being confirmed in the continent.

“I have to say it clearly and loudly that Mpox is getting out of control if we do not act,” he said.

He noted that more than 1,000 deaths have been recorded and the disease has spread to 12 more countries from April to August.

"If we continue with meetings and discussions, we will not succeed. We are still talking about pledges being made. We ought to finalise all these discussions next week to translate the pledges into concrete money, tools, and vaccines for our countries," he said.

Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention is a specialised technical institution of the African Union that strengthens the capacity and capability of Africa’s public health institutions.

On October 14, Health Director-General Patrick Amoth confirmed the first Mpox death in the country.

Amoth confirmed that the number of Mpox cases now stands at 13, with eight people having fully recovered and have been discharged.

The Health DG added that four patients are still recuperating in different hospitals.

“One patient passed on due to a co-existent medical condition,” he said.

Mpox was declared a public health emergency by the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention On August 14, the World Health Organisation similarly proclaimed the event a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

The World Health Organization donated medicines for NTDs and Mpox diagnostics to the Ministry of Health.

The WHO donated 15,215,000 tablets to support Kenya's fight against NTDs to eliminate conditions like schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases.

The donation worth Sh213 million worth of medicine is to be used for a mass drug administration later this month targeting over 15 million people in 15 counties.

According to the ministry, the focus will be on the Coastal region, Lake Victoria basin, and Western regions, where the burden of these diseases remains highest.

Kenyan Police Say They are Investigating a "Kidnapping Incident" After a Motorcycle Driver Witnessed the Abduction

by BBC NEWS

19 October 2024 - 16:35

In Summary

In a statement, the UK Foreign Office said they were "providing consular support to a British man and his family following an incident in Kenya".

According to the report, two vehicles were intercepted and blocked from the front and behind a silver saloon car with two occupants.

Crime scene

A British national has told the BBC that he and several Turkish citizens were abducted in the Kenyan capital Nairobi by masked men on Friday, with four of the Turkish citizens still missing.

Necdet Seyitoğlu, who lived in the UK for 18 years before moving to Kenya two years ago, said he was released after eight hours when he showed his alleged abductors a copy of his British passport.

In a statement, the UK Foreign Office said they were "providing consular support to a British man and his family following an incident in Kenya".

Kenyan police told the BBC they were investigating a "kidnapping incident" after a motorcycle driver witnessed the abduction.

According to the report, two vehicles were intercepted and blocked from the front and behind a silver saloon car with two occupants.

"About eight persons armed with weapons emerged from the two vehicles, pulled out the two occupants," and drove off with them, said Kenyan police spokeswoman Resila Onyango.

"Later, one Yusuf Kar, a British national of Turkish origin" reported to a nearby police station and identified the kidnapped men as Hüseyin Yeşilsu and Necdet Seyitoğlu. Turkish authorities have not yet commented on the incident.

Mr Seyitoğlu, an education consultant, gave additional details of what he said happened during his kidnapping ordeal, some of which differ from the police account.

He described a white SUV intercepting his car as he was leaving home for work with a friend at 07:30 local time (04:30 GMT).

The pair were blindfolded and handcuffed by four armed men before being driven off to an unknown location, he said.

Repeated requests about what was happening went unanswered, he said.

"We asked them, can you show your identification? Where we are going? But we didn't get any kind of explanation," the 49-year-old said.

"It was the worst experience of my life," Mr Seyitoğlu added.

He said he was eventually able to convince his alleged abductors that he was a British citizen by showing them a copy of his passport on this phone.

After taking a photo, the men received a call that sounded like it was an instruction to release him, he said. The masked men, who Mr Seyitoğlu said spoke Swahili, then dropped him off at a place he did not recognise and gave him Sh1,000 for transport back home, but refused to return his phone and laptop.

During this time, Mr Seyitoğlu said his wife reported him missing and informed the British High Commission. Mr Seyitoğlu said six other people he knew - all Turkish citizens—were also abducted in the same manner from different locations in Nairobi.

A local law firm, Mukele & Kakai, said in a statement that it was acting on behalf of four men who were registered refugees and warned airlines against allowing them to be brought on board.

"Our clients were abducted in Kenya with the aim of being deported back to Turkey, where they are victims of political victimisation," the lawyers' letter, seen by the BBC, said.

This was echoed by the campaign group Amnesty International, whose Kenya spokesman said he was "deeply concerned by reports that seven asylum seekers from Türkiye have been abducted on Kenyan soil.".

The UN's refugee agency, UNHCR, told the BBC it was "aware of reports and will provide more information once we have it".

Cabinet Council Assesses Angola's 50th Anniversary Celebration Program

17 October 2024

Angola Press Agency (Luanda)

Luanda — The Cabinet Council, meeting under the guidance of the President of the Republic, João Lourenço, assessed on Thursday, in Luanda, the general program of celebrations of the 50th anniversary of Angola's National Independence, to be marked in 2025 (Nov 11).

The document, analized at the 4th extraordinary session of the Cabinet Council, contains the actions to be developed throughout the national territory and overseas, from November this year until December 2025, in order to provide a worthy celebration, reads the final communiqué of the meeting.

With the festivities of the fiftieth anniversary of national independence, which will take place under the motto "Angola 50 Years: Preserving and Valuing the Achievements, Building a Better Future", the aim is to praise the historical journey of the Angolan people, since the Nov 11th of 1975, the achievements in the military, political and diplomatic domains.

It also aims to recognize the achievements made by the Angolan people, in the sports, social and cultural sphere, the values of national unity and cohesion, democracy, patriotism, Angolanness, humanism and solidarity, highlights the press release of the Cabinet Council.

At Thursday's session, the Cabinet ministers also assessed the Communication Plan on the activities of the 50th anniversary of National Independence, a document that, given the historical grandeur of the date, strategically outlines promotion, visibility, marketing, communication and mobilization.

The Communication Plan aims to exalt the socio-political, economic and cultural dimension of Angola as a sovereign and independent country, strengthening its affirmation as a peaceful and politically stable nation.

It also aims to promote national culture, promote and encourage tourism, highlight relevant personalities in the history of Angola, before and after independence, and engage the Angolan diaspora and international partners.

It also aims to promote patriotism and pride in being Angolan, highlight the political legacy of the protagonists of independence and national heroes, as well as Angola's role in the liberation of Southern Africa and its contribution to maintaining peace in Africa.

The Council of Ministers is the Collegial Body that assists the President of the Republic, as Holder of Executive Power, in formulating and conducting the country's general policy and Public Administration.

Ordinary sessions take place in the last week of each month, while extraordinary sessions take place whenever called by the Head of State.

AFL/ART/CF/jmc

Read the original article on ANGOP.

Al-Houthi Says Hamas to Never Drop Banner of Resistance After Sinwar

By Al Mayadeen English

18 Oct 2024 23:30

Ansar Allah leader Sayyed Abdul-Malik Badreddine al-Houthi underlines that the Israeli occupation forces will not succeed in forcing the Resistance to surrender.

The leader of Yemen's Ansar Allah movement, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, expressed his condolences to the family of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, the Political Bureau of the movement, the al-Qassam Brigades, the Palestinian people, and the entire Islamic World following Sinwar's martyrdom.

In a statement on Friday evening, Sayyed al-Houthi said, "We received with deep sorrow the news of the martyrdom of our brother and fighter, Yahya Sinwar, who was martyred in the path of God, in the field of confrontation, heroism, and honor."

Sayyed al-Houthi emphasized that the sacrifices of the oppressed Palestinian people and their fighters would never be in vain.

He further asserted that "if the Israeli enemy believes that the martyrdom of leader Sinwar will lead to the collapse of the resistance front in Gaza or the demoralization of its fighters, they are delusional."

Sayyed al-Houthi also stressed that Hamas, a movement that has been steadfast and giving since its very inception, has not faltered despite the martyrdom of its founder and several of its prominent leaders. He assured that Hamas "will never abandon the banner of resistance, leave the battlefield, or surrender."

He criticized the Israeli occupation's portrayal of assassinating Resistance leaders as an achievement, calling it a "fantasy" and a disregard for the realities on the ground.

The Yemeni leader added that the US and the Israeli occupation are working toward common goals, driven by similar ideologies, with the US seeking to enable Israeli dominance over the region, whether directly or through political and economic control. 

He also pointed out that the current events in the region are not coincidental but part of a long series of developments.

Yemen pays tribute to Sinwar

The Supreme Political Council of Yemen mourned on Friday the great martyr and prominent leader, Hamas Political Bureau chief Yahya Sinwar, "who was killed after a long journey of struggle and sacrifice."

In a statement offering its condolences, the council affirmed that the heroic martyr raised the banner of the struggle, standing steadfast at the forefront of the oppressed Palestinian people and the resistance movements.

The council emphasized that Sinwar formed a strong front against the "criminal Zionist aggression until his efforts culminated in martyrdom for the sake of God."

Sanaa extended congratulations to the Arab-Islamic nation, especially Hamas, for the significant sacrifice of leader Yahya Sinwar, stating that his blood would serve as "the fuel that will ignite the fire against the Zionists and increase the determination and resolve of the fighters in Palestine."

In conclusion, the Political Council reiterated Yemen's unwavering position of solidarity with the oppressed Palestinian people, pledging to continue support "with all available resources and means until the aggression is halted and the siege is lifted."

Additionally, Mohammed Abdulsalam, spokesperson for the Ansar Allah movement, issued a statement congratulating Hamas and the Palestinian people on Sinwar receiving "the medal of martyrdom," fighting for the noblest and just cause.

"May God have mercy on Abu Ibrahim; he has written heroic epics in confronting the Israeli criminal entity. We are certain that Gaza and the Palestinian cause are destined for victory, no matter the sacrifices involved," he concluded.

Lebanon Files UN Complaint, South Africa Condemns Israeli Aggression

By Al Mayadeen English

16 Oct 2024 17:50

Lebanon urges the UN Security Council to denounce "Israel’s" attacks, while South Africa condemns the bombing of Lebanon as a violation of international law.

The Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants filed on Wednesday a new complaint with the United Nations Security Council, urging it to denounce the Israeli occupation's ongoing aggression on Lebanon and to ensure "Israel's" compliance with Resolution 1701.

The Ministry stated that this complaint was filed in response to Israeli attacks on Lebanese territory between October 3 and October 14.

Lebanon requested that the UNSC condemn "Israel's" repeated acts of hostility against both the country and its people, as well as the invasion of its land, and called for the immediate cessation of these attacks.

Additionally, Lebanon urged the Council to compel "Israel" to fully implement Resolution 1701 and withdraw from all occupied Lebanese land.

South Africa condemns Israeli aggression on Lebanon

Earlier, on October 14, South Africa condemned the Israeli occupation's continued bombardment of Lebanon, calling for an immediate end to the bombing campaign.

Israel’s bombing of Lebanon is a "serious violation" of the territory of a sovereign state and a "grave violation of international law," the South African Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

South Africa called on the international community and the UN Security Council to be consistent with the defense of international law and international humanitarian law.

‘"The international community cannot afford to remain indifferent," the statement stressed, adding that "Israel continues to violate international humanitarian law with impunity in Gaza."

Pretoria also condemned the Israeli occupation's aggression against central Beirut the week before, which reportedly killed 22 civilians and injured over 117 more.

On that note, the statement noted that "the strikes [on Beirut] hit a densely packed residential neighborhood of apartment buildings and small shops in the heart of the Lebanese capital."