Author: Ohene Anochie

The Port of Riga is gearing up for a transformative year in 2025, with key projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing its infrastructure and operational capabilities. Chairman of the Board of the Freeport of Riga, Sandis Steins, revealed plans for a new passenger terminal, improved maritime access, and industrial expansion. An agreement for financing and constructing a state-of-the-art passenger terminal is expected to be finalized within the next year. Simultaneously, work is set to commence in the port’s water area to demolish the ED dam, a move that will allow large cruise ships and passenger ferries to dock at the…

The national Itorero program was officially launched on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Fawe Girls School in Gisozi Sector, Gasabo District, Kigali. This initiative, involving over 1,300 young participants known as Intore, is part of a nationwide effort to instill patriotism, civic responsibility, and Rwandan cultural values in the youth. Program Highlights The Itorero, which runs for four days, allows participants to transition directly into urugerero activities without going through the traditional ingando camps. These activities emphasize community service and practical contributions to national development, such as constructing homes for the needy and participating in other communal initiatives. Participants,…

Kigali City, once known for its lush forests, now faces a significant decline in its forest cover due to rapid urban development. According to a recent map, forests cover 17% of Kigali’s total area. However, between 2009 and 2019, forest cover decreased by 23%, while afforestation efforts increased by 26%. This results in a net annual forest growth of just 0.3%, highlighting the pressing need for sustainable reforestation initiatives. Long-term residents recall a time when Kigali was dominated by expansive forests. Musengamana Silas, a 48-year resident of Kigali, noted, “Kimisagara, Gikondo, and Muhima were once covered in diverse trees. Now,…

Five contenders have officially entered the race to become the chairperson of the Homeland Union – Lithuanian Christian Democrats (TS-LKD), following the departure of Gabrielius Landsbergis as party leader. The candidates include former defense ministers Laurynas Kasčiūnas and Arvydas Anušauskas, interim party chairwoman and former education minister Radvilė Morkūnaitė-Mikulėnienė, MP Žygimantas Pavilionis, and Daivaras Rybakovas, who heads the party’s Jurbarkas branch. Laurynas Kasčiūnas Leads Nominations Laurynas Kasčiūnas garnered the most nominations among the candidates, with his candidacy proposed 65 times by party branches. The only person to receive more nominations was former Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė, who declined to…

Starting in 2026, Lithuanian schoolchildren will have the option to choose Spanish as their primary foreign language. While the demand for Spanish language learning is growing, schools face significant challenges in finding qualified teachers to meet this demand. At Kaunas Maironis University Gymnasium, a Mexican teacher currently teaches Spanish, but the recruitment process was far from straightforward. “We used every possible method to find a teacher—reaching out to colleagues, asking for recommendations, and even persuading potential candidates. We are thrilled we succeeded,” said the school’s deputy headmistress, Ramunė Balčiuvienė. The teacher, Jesus Manuel Barragan Ferrer, revealed that schools actively…

The African grey parrot, renowned for its striking feathers and remarkable ability to mimic human speech, is under siege from illegal trafficking. The demand for these intelligent birds as pets is driving a brutal trade that decimates their population and causes untold suffering. The journey from forest to captivity is perilous for these parrots, with a majority never making it to their final destinations. “Up to 60% of African grey parrots die between capture and transport,” said Patrick Muinde, Research Director at World Animal Protection. “Out of ten parrots, only four survive.” Poachers employ cruel methods to capture the birds,…

he Forces Vives platform of Guinea, comprising opposition groups and civil society organizations, has declared it will no longer recognize the authority of the military junta after December 31, 2024. This date marks the end of the transition period initially promised by the junta following its 2021 coup. However, the military authorities have since announced a delay, citing the need for a “refoundation of the state.” Abdoul Sacko, coordinator of the Forum des Forces Sociales de Guinée, criticized the extension and the junta’s governance, stating: “There is no relevant, visible, or perfectible approach to a return to constitutional order.”…

Farmers in Egypt, including 43-year-old Mohamed Eissa from Beni Suef province, are embracing biogas production units as a sustainable solution to rising costs and environmental concerns. These units, provided through an initiative by a Cairo-based bioenergy company, convert manure into cooking fuel and organic fertilizers, offering both economic and agricultural benefits. “The unit benefits us both at home and in the field,” Eissa explained. “It has cut down our reliance on butane cylinders. I used to buy four cylinders a month, each costing EGP 170 ($3.30). Now, I only need one cylinder, saving me around EGP 500 ($9.80) monthly. Plus,…

Cheikh Oumar Diagne, Senegal’s minister in charge of administration within the presidency, has come under fire for remarks labeling colonial riflemen as “traitors.” In a December 21 interview on Fafa TV, Diagne stated that these soldiers fought against their African “brothers” during revolts and anti-colonial wars, a comment that has sparked widespread backlash. Social media and traditional outlets have been abuzz with criticism, with some calling for the minister’s resignation. Defenders of the riflemen, including historian Mamadou Fall, have countered Diagne’s claims, emphasizing the riflemen’s courage and suffering. Fall described them as heroes who endured great hardship rather than…

Whether for a brief getaway or an extended vacation, Kaunas warmly invites travelers to explore its celebrated landmarks and hidden gems, revealing a unique character on every visit. Catering to diverse interests from street art enthusiasts and nature lovers to food connoisseurs and history buffs Kaunas promises an unforgettable experience. For visitors seeking inspiration, Kaunas offers a mix of historic sites and cutting-edge modern attractions. The city brims with energy, featuring an array of cozy cafés serving hearty breakfasts, gourmet restaurants, and cocktail bars. To fully immerse yourself in the city’s charm, consider strolling or cycling along its scenic pedestrian…