Author: Ohene Anochie

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reiterated its support for Egypt’s reform initiatives as the country grapples with economic difficulties intensified by regional challenges. Speaking from Washington, D.C., on Thursday, IMF Communications Director Julie Kozack highlighted Egypt’s dedication to implementing reforms that ensure macroeconomic stability. An IMF mission recently concluded its visit to Egypt, marking substantial progress in discussions for the fourth review of the country’s 46-month loan agreement. The program, initiated in 2022 and expanded to $8 billion earlier this year, aims to address critical issues such as soaring inflation and foreign currency shortages. Upon completing the review, Egypt…

Senegal’s November 17 legislative elections delivered a historic win for Ousmane Sonko’s Pastef party, which secured 130 of the 165 parliamentary seats a commanding 78% majority. This marks the most decisive electoral victory in Senegal since 1988. Pastef’s dominance was evident across the nation, winning 40 out of 46 departments and 7 of the 8 overseas constituencies. Party officials credited the overwhelming voter support as a mandate for transformative reforms, describing the results as a testament to the people’s will. Voter turnout was reported at nearly 50%, reflecting strong civic engagement. Opposition parties have acknowledged the outcome. Former President Macky…

The U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, has expressed concern over the lack of political will among Sudan’s warring factions to end the devastating conflict that has engulfed the country since April 2023. Speaking Thursday after his first visit to Sudan since assuming office, Perriello warned that the ongoing crisis, marked by atrocities and mass displacement, demands urgent global attention. Sudan descended into chaos following the eruption of violence between the military, led by General Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. What began as a power struggle in the…

Negotiators at the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) faced mounting pressure on Friday, November 22, the last scheduled day of the talks. Youth activists and environmental groups took center stage, demanding urgent action on climate finance and decrying human rights abuses against climate defenders. In a powerful display, youth groups symbolically taped their mouths shut to highlight the silencing of climate activists worldwide. Among them was 21-year-old Kenyan activist Georgina Kerubo, a member of the Global Young Green organization, who emphasized the importance of raising awareness about climate issues. “As an activist, it is my duty to educate…

Acclaimed actress Viola Davis will be honored with the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 82nd annual Golden Globes ceremony on January 5, 2024. The announcement was made on Wednesday, November 20, by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA). Davis, celebrated for her transformative performances in films such as The Help and The Woman King, has earned a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. Helen Hoehne, president of the Golden Globes, praised Davis as a “luminary” whose dedication to her craft and groundbreaking roles have profoundly shaped the entertainment industry. “Viola’s courage in portraying complex, powerful…

Spain is set to implement a groundbreaking policy granting residency and work permits to approximately 300,000 undocumented migrants each year over the next three years. The initiative, announced by Migration Minister Elma Saiz on Wednesday, seeks to address the nation’s aging workforce while upholding its commitment to human rights and economic prosperity. Starting in May, the policy will offer undocumented migrants a legal pathway to integrate into Spain’s labor market. “This is not just about cultural wealth or respect for human rights; it’s also about prosperity,” Saiz said in an interview with Radio Nacional de España. “Today, we can…

Brazil took a historic stand against racism on Wednesday by implementing FIFA’s anti-racism gesture during their World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The measure, designed to combat discrimination on the field, underscores a growing commitment to address the persistent issue. Vinícius Júnior, Brazil’s star forward and Real Madrid standout, has been a vocal advocate for stronger anti-racism measures in football. Having personally faced racist abuse on multiple occasions, he has emerged as a leading voice in the fight against discrimination. “I always say it’s everybody’s fight,” Vinícius stated. “I know my strength and visibility: I can speak for all those…

In the heart of Apia, Samoa’s capital, a cultural village is bustling with demonstrations of ancient traditions. From intricate tattooing ceremonies to the weaving of fine mats, Samoans are working to safeguard their heritage in the face of modern pressures. The rhythmic tapping of traditional tattooing tools fills the air as an artist inscribes a man’s body with pigment. Known as tatau, this dense, symbolic pattern spans the lower body and signifies a rite of passage for Samoan men. For women, the malu tattoo features a more delicate design, etched from the upper thigh to the knee. These painful but…

Acclaimed actress Keke Palmer has revealed how a timely gesture from Will Smith helped her navigate a challenging period in her early career as a Hollywood star. During a recent appearance on The Toast podcast, Keke shared that at 17 years old, she considered seeking emancipation from her parents while working on the Nickelodeon series True Jackson, VP (2008–2011). However, a phone call from Will Smith convinced her to reconsider. “I got a call from this really obscure number,” Keke recounted on the November 19 episode. “I was like, ‘What? This is weird, I’m not answering this.’” After missing…

A trending quilted carryall bag that has been capturing attention this season is now available at a fraction of the cost. Originally retailing for $68, shoppers can now score a budget-friendly alternative for just $18, making it a must-have accessory for fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike. Why This Quilted Carryall Bag is a Favorite The quilted carryall bag is loved not just for its chic design but also for its versatility and practicality. Here’s what makes it a standout choice: Spacious and Lightweight: Its roomy, unstructured style allows you to pack it to capacity, making it perfect as…