Staff Writer

 “We used to believe that strictness was the only way of maintaining order in a prison,” admitted Achol Deng, one of 13 female Correction Officers who joined male colleagues from across Warrap State for a recent and, as it turned out, truly eye-opening training. “Now we understand how dignity and respect can prevent problems from even happening.” This significant and potentially life-changing insight was the key takeaway from a three-day […]

 Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to ensuring that Universal Health Coverage (UHC) delivers tangible results for Kenyans. Speaking during a strategy meeting with the Directorate of Policy, Digital Health, and Innovations, Dr. Oluga stressed that restoring public trust in the health system is non-negotiable. “Our work must restore order to the health sector, promote the health of our people, reduce the […]

 The UN Committee against Torture (CAT) today issued its findings on Armenia, France, Mauritius, Monaco, Turkmenistan and Ukraine after reviewing the six States parties in its latest session. The findings contain the Committee’s main concerns and recommendations on each country’s implementation of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Key highlights include: Armenia  The Committee commended Armenia’s new Criminal and Criminal Procedure Codes, noting the broader definition […]

 In a compelling appeal for peace, Madelina Dudu Kuje, Chair of the Women’s Union in Kasire, highlighted the urgent need for development and safety, stating that South Sudan's children deserve to grow up in a stable environment where they can thrive. At 65, this widow and mother understands the serious challenges children face in a nation plagued by instability and insecurity. "Persistent conflict, economic hardships, and limited opportunities hinder our […]

 International Workers Day was celebrated in the port city of Massawa at the Northern Red Sea region level under the theme “Productivity through Conscious Participation.” The event featured sports competitions, public campaigns, and seminars among other activities. Mr. Habtemariam Tesfamicael, head of the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers branch in the region, said that May Day is a day when workers raise their voices and renew their pledge to work […]

 Turkey is making bold strides in expanding its energy footprint, with a series of strategic moves aimed at securing long-term energy resources and boosting its global influence. The Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO), the country’s state-owned energy giant, is set to launch oil and gas exploration projects in Libya, aligning with Turkey’s broader strategy to diversify its energy supplies and tap into Africa’s vast resources. Turkey, which currently imports over 90% […]

 Nigerian business and civil-society leader Amina Oyagbola will take the helm at Afrobarometer (www.Afrobarometer.org), succeeding co-founder E. Gyimah-Boadi as chair of the board of directors effective April 2025, the research organisation announced Friday.   Oyagbola is an independent director and business management consultant with more than 35 years of experience in legal practice and business management in corporate Nigeria, including as a former human resources and corporate services executive at MTN […]

 The Benin authorities’ recent wave of sanctions against independent media outlets highlights the urgent need to protect press freedom in the country, said Amnesty International, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and Internet Without Borders. The call comes as Benin’s parliament debates revisions to the Digital Code – legislation critical to the protection of a free press and freedom of expression. Since the beginning of the year, the High Authority for Audiovisual […]

 The UN-Women Executive Board will undertake a field visit to Zimbabwe from 4-10 May 2025, as part of its oversight and engagement efforts to assess and understand the impact of UN-Women’s operations in advancing national development priorities and addressing women’s challenges in the region. This visit offers the Executive Board a unique opportunity to witness the contributions of UN-Women in alignment with Zimbabwe’s development agenda. Key focus areas include national […]