A plaque placed beside the statue identifies the installation as “The King of the World .” It also includes a description referencing the film’s storyline and drawing a comparison between the two men. 

The plaque reads: "The tragic love story between Jack and Rose was built on luxurious travel , raucous parties, and secret nude sketches. This monument honours the bond between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, a friendship seemingly built on luxurious travel, raucous parties, and secret nude sketches."

The 12-foot statue was created by The Secret Handshake, an anonymous group that has previously installed anti-Trump and anti-Epstein artworks near the Capitol.

In September, the group installed a bronze statue depicting Trump and Epstein holding hands with a plaque displaying “In Honor of Friendship Month”.

“We celebrate the long-lasting bond between President Donald J. Trump and his 'closest friend,' Jeffrey Epstein,” the plaque read with a hand heart gesture beneath.

According to reports, the Titanic sculpture is expected to remain on display until Friday, March 13.

The installation appears at a time when questions are being raised about the US Justice Department’s handling of records connected to Epstein. Reports said files linked to allegations involving Trump were missing from a public database, prompting concerns about transparency.

The Justice Department said the records were omitted due to a coding error rather than being deliberately removed.

Epstein, a convicted financier, died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. He had previously pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution, including from a minor, and faced accusations of operating a network involving underage girls. 

Trump, despite being a well-known associate of the late financier, has strongly denied any wrongdoing and involvement in Epstein's illicit activities.

Drawing on his own upbringing, Abumba’s work documents everyday survival in an environment marked by recurring violence and natural danger. Through photography, installations and sketches, the exhibition turns lived experience into visual testimony, focusing on resilience, identity and the lives of people displaced by war.

ArtReview’s Power 100 is an annual ranking that identifies the individuals considered most influential in shaping the contemporary art world. Compiled by the UK-based magazine ArtReview, the list reflects impact across artistic practice, institutions, markets and cultural debate, rather than commercial success alone.

Images from Accra show sacks filled with coloured rocks and stones, labourers assembling large textile installations, and visitors moving through museum spaces where Mahama’s work is on display. His work is best known for monumental textile-based pieces made from repurposed jute sacks and industrial materials, which frequently address themes of labour, history and exploitation.

Mahama has argued that producing ideas from Africa inevitably shapes how those ideas resonate globally. He noted that while artists and students have traditionally looked towards the West for knowledge, the conditions on the continent also generate forms of understanding that cannot be created elsewhere.

The art ist said his decision to base his practice in Tamale was deliberate. Using a metaphor, he compared art to sugar that attracts ants wherever it is placed, explaining that building his studio there was less about location and more about contribution, learning and long-term engagement.

At 38, Mahama climbed from 14th place in the 2024 ranking to the top position this year. Over the past decade, his large-scale installations have brought him international attention, positioning his work at the centre of discussions about labour, responsibility, memory and the social implications of artistic production.

On September 8, 2025, the Constitutional Council published the final list of five candidates for the October 25 presidential election: President Alassane Ouattara, Jean-Louis Billon, Don Mello, Simone Gbagbo, and Henriette Lagou. The candidatures of Laurent Gbagbo (PPA-CI) and Tidjane Thiam (PDCI) were rejected, citing a lack of sponsorships, among other reasons.

PPA-CI raises alarm over arrests of activists

The executive president of the African Peoples' Party-Côte d'Ivoire (PPA-CI), Dano Djédjé Sébastien, expressed concern on September 16 in Abidjan about the situation of party activists and executives reportedly arrested since August 1, 2025. According to the PPA-CI, 29 members, including Pascale Zaholy, Moïse Lida Kouassi, and Boubacar Koné, have been victims of “kidnappings or forced disappearances.” The party announced plans to meet with the Ministry of the Interior and Security for clarification, while reaffirming its commitment to peaceful political engagement. Djédjé emphasised the importance of safeguarding political freedoms and avoiding intimidation ahead of the October presidential election.

UN envoy urges peaceful and inclusive elections

Leonardo Santos Simão, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel, met with Ivorian political leaders in Abidjan on September 20, 2025. He held discussions with both selected and rejected presidential candidates, stressing the need for peaceful, inclusive, and transparent elections. The mission aims to promote stability and social cohesion before and after the vote.

Opening of historic contemporary art museum

A new contemporary art museum, La Maison de l’Art, has opened in Grand-Bassam in a restored colonial-era building. The inaugural exhibition features 28 artists from nine African countries, showcasing paintings, sculptures, photography, and design. The space includes permanent and temporary exhibition halls, an artist residency, and meeting facilities. Ivorian artist Mathilde Moreau described it as a gathering place for exchange and creativity. The project was realised in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and the Société Générale Foundation.

Launch of first forensic art programme in West Africa 

The University of Bondoukou inaugurated a new programme in “Forensic Art and Facial Identification” during a seminar on September 24–25, 2025. The initiative, the first of its kind in West Africa, stems from a collaboration with the forensic science department. Authorities praised the programme as a symbol of innovation and modernity in higher education. University president Professor Ouattara Djakalia emphasised the institution’s commitment to developing training aligned with labour market needs and preparing competitive graduates.

At a press conference held on June 10 in Accra, Houadjeto emphasised that FESTAC Africa 2025, slated for September 21 to 25, would serve as a cultural and economic bridge between Africa and the world.

“This is not just a festival,” she said. “It is a declaration that Africa is ready, not only to tell her own story but to define it.”

Scheduled under the theme “Harnessing Health, Culture, Trade, Climate Change , Gender Equity, and Tourism for Sustainable Economic Growth,” FESTAC Africa 2025 is expected to attract global attention and participation, bringing together artists, creatives, academics, and innovators from across Africa and the diaspora.

Houadjeto explained that cultural fusion is no longer a future concept, but it's happening now. “Intermarriages between the Global North and South are integrating our cultures,” she said. “We use FESTAC to amplify that fusion, from an African perspective,” she told GSW.

“Our fashion is worn everywhere. Our food is becoming global. I’ve seen international organisations and youth all over the world dancing to African music . What else do we need to see that the world is finally paying attention?”

She added that the continent is poised not only to participate but to lead in shaping the world’s cultural future.

"I know that the next shift is going to be Africa. So this is us trying to, you know, prepare our youth, prepare everybody," said Grace Mumo, CEO of FESTAC Africa.

The event will highlight not just the vibrancy of African culture but also its economic power, organisers disclosed.

“FESTAC is the platform where we own our voice,” said Houadjeto. “Our story is deep, and though we carry scars, those scars are strength. The world is finally ready to listen to Africa, and Africa is ready to speak.”

Vanuatu's Parliament has unanimously passed the Harmful Digital Communications (Amendment) Act of 2025, expanding its 2024 law to combat online abuse, impersonation, and pornography. Key updates include criminalising online impersonation and use of forged IDs for fraud, explicit ban on pornography, including creation, sharing, or hosting, protection for minors and that is exposing those under 16 to pornographic content now carries penalties of up to VT 2,000,000 or three years in prison, court powers to block adult sites and mandate takedowns of illegal content or fake accounts. The law introduces three new offences: digital impersonation using counterfeit IDs, distributing pornography, and exposing minors to explicit content. Companies enabling ID misuse may be fined up to VT 5,000,000.

Digicel Vanuatu commits to 99% mobile coverage under UAP

Digicel Vanuatu has signed its 5th Undertaking under the Universal Access Policy, aiming to extend mobile coverage to 99% of the population. Despite Vanuatu’s challenging geography—over 80 islands across 1,300 km—the telco reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the digital divide. 4G coverage stood at 90% by the end of 2023, according to ITU data. The expansion will also support access to MyCash mobile wallets, e-learning, e-health, and digital finance for remote communities. No timeline was specified. “This is a leap forward to ensuring access to the life-changing potential of mobile coverage,” said CEO Gary Sue-Fong.

Australia helping Vanuatu with museum collection upkeep

After the 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Port Vila in December, staff at the National Museum of Vanuatu were devastated by the damage. "It was all a mess," said curator Kaitip Kami. Thirteen display cases were destroyed, and numerous artefacts—including ancient Lapita pottery—were lost. Housed in the Vanuatu Cultural Centre, the museum safeguards priceless cultural items, including ancestral remains, which survived the fall due to their placement on lower shelves. Under Ni-Vanuatu custom, only the original tribes may repair damaged artefacts. "You have to have the right," said Kami, noting plans to bring in community members from affected islands once funding allows.

Vanuatu, GGGI strengthen climate resilience partnership

The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) has renewed its commitment to climate action in Vanuatu following a high-level meeting with Climate Minister Ralph Regenvanu. Leaders discussed strengthening collaboration on resilience, adaptation, and sustainable development. GGGI praised Vanuatu’s climate leadership and green progress, including installing 37 solar water pumps across 36 rural communities, aiding over 20,000 people. The institute has also helped shape Vanuatu’s Loss and Damage Policy, adaptation plans, and green investments in energy and forestry. GGGI reaffirmed its support for locally led climate solutions, calling Vanuatu one of its most successful programmes.

Vanuatu has a new island destination

Coming in early 2027, Royal Caribbean will unveil Lelepa , a new private island destination in Vanuatu—the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Unlike the theme-park style of Coco Cay, Lelepa will offer a locally inspired, culturally immersive experience with serene beaches, nature trails, and water activities. Designed in partnership with local communities, everything from the layout to the use of locally grown produce reflects Vanuatu’s culture and environment. “With crystal clear waters and stunning beauty, Lelepa will be the perfect addition to South Pacific holidays,” said Gavin Smith, Royal Caribbean VP for Australia and New Zealand.

Egypt has significantly boosted its potato exports to Russia in the first quarter of 2025, sending 274,500 tonnes, a dramatic increase from 59,300 tonnes in 2024. Russia overall imported 432,200 tonnes of potatoes, nearly four times the previous year's volume. Additionally, Egypt exported 13,000 tonnes of onions to Russia, showing a notable increase from 7,600 tonnes in 2024. This export surge follows discussions led by Sergey Dankvert of Rosselkhoznadzor and Egyptian officials regarding mutual agricultural trade, amidst a backdrop of rising potato prices in Russia.

Decline of Egypt's donkey population raises health concerns

Egypt's donkey population has plummeted from 3 million in the 1990s to below 1 million, prompting public health concerns as reports of illegal slaughter for meat emerge. Hussein Abu Saddam of the Farmers’ Union highlighted the issues in a recent interview, citing modernisation and high maintenance costs as key factors driving the decline, along with a booming black market for donkey hides. Egypt Today reports that despite donkey meat's prohibition, it reportedly ends up in restaurants, sparking fears among consumers regarding food safety and animal welfare. 

Egyptian cinema shines at Cannes Film Festival

At the 78th Cannes Film Festival, Egyptian cinema garnered attention with the screening of 'Aisha Can't Fly Away,' by Morad Mostafa, featured in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section. The film offers a poignant examination of refugee life in East Cairo and showcases notable performances, Dawn reports. Alongside prominent Arab figures in attendance, Egypt also reinstated its Al-Mahrousa Pavilion to promote the national film industry and foster global networking opportunities.

Egypt sentences prominent dissident to six months in prison

Egypt has handed a new six-month prison sentence to opposition figure and former presidential hopeful Hisham Kassem for defaming a former labour minister, his lawyer told AFP. The sentence, issued in absentia as Kassem is currently abroad, comes months after he was released in February 2024 following a previous six-month jail term that barred him from running in the December 2023 presidential election. Kassem was reportedly not informed of the new charges, which his lawyer described as “very concerning.” Human rights groups have condemned the ruling , calling it a politically motivated attempt to silence dissent.

Egypt purchases 2.5 million tonnes of wheat from local farmers

As of this season, Egypt has procured 2.5 million metric tons of wheat from local farmers, indicating a slight increase compared to 2024. Despite a reduction in cultivated wheat areas, the government anticipates purchasing between 4 and 5 million tonnes to ensure national bread supply, backed by a 10% price rise for farmers. Egypt plans to import an additional 6 million tonnes to sustain its heavily subsidised bread programme for over 69 million citizens.

She officially kicked off the challenge this Wednesday with the completion and validation of her first portrait - an artistic tribute to President Alassane Ouattara.

Beyond setting a record, Amon aims to engage with the public in a unique and meaningful way. She announced that selected spectators will have the opportunity to be immortalised through her art , capturing their effigies with her signature Papy-art style.

In a heartfelt philanthropic gesture, proceeds from the sale of her art pieces will be donated to support children battling cancer, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

"I’m calling on all Ivorians to come out, witness history in the making, and support this challenge," said Amon. "Together, we can turn art into a force for good."

Bruce Ykanji, the founder of Juste Debout, explained the tournament's unique focus: “This stage aims to identify top dancers who will advance to the world finals.” The competition exclusively celebrates upright dance styles, including popping, locking, house, and hip-hop new style.

French-Tunisian organiser Syhem Belkhodja reflected on the significance of the event’s name and its resonance with the Arab world. “‘Juste Debout’ [was launched] because we needed to stand up, whether in Tunisia or in any other Arab country. It was this term that really struck a chord with me as a young person,” she said.

This is a landmark achievement, being the first time a Rwandan cultural performance has been added to this esteemed list.

"What good news at the end of a year rich in emotions, memories and symbols for Rwanda!" Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of Francophone, expressed her joy.

The Intore dance is characterised by its dynamic movements performed by a troupe, symbolising warriors on the battlefield. Dancers, arranged in lines, mimic a combat scenario against an unseen foe, utilising spears and shields, all while synchronising their movements with traditional drumming and horn music.

This dance serves as a powerful community expression during significant celebrations, including harvest festivals and receptions for distinguished guests.

The addition of the Intore dance to UNESCO's list complements other recognitions of Rwandan heritage, which include sites like genocide memorials and Nyungwe National Park, further showcasing the richness and resilience of Rwandan culture.

The term "Intangible Cultural Heritage" refers to various practices and expressions that communities identify as part of their heritage, encompassing knowledge, skills, and cultural instruments.

UNESCO established this list to safeguard traditions that have been transmitted through generations, currently including 678 elements from 140 countries.

Despite the numerous allegations against Diddy, his defence team stands by its previous comments that the rapper is bouncing back stronger.

"He's doing fine (Sean "Diddy" Combs). You know, Dr King called it the law of unintended consequences. So sometimes the more you push a person down, the stronger they get and so he's making an adjustment. He had his family here today to support him. We really want to put an end to all of the clowning that we see on the Internet. This is a serious proceeding with serious consequences, and all of us are addressing it accordingly," Diddy's lawyer Anthony Ricco told the press on Thursday.

The charges against Combs stem from an extensive investigation into allegations of sex trafficking and racketeering. Federal prosecutors have accused the music mogul of orchestrating a network that exploited individuals for commercial sex acts.

R&B singer Cassie Ventura filed a lawsuit against Sean "Diddy" Combs in 2023, accusing him of repeated physical abuse, sexual exploitation, and rape throughout their decade-long professional and personal relationship.

In November 2023, the two reached an undisclosed settlement, while Combs firmly denied the accusations.

Cassie's lawsuit opened a plethora of legal actions against the 54-year-old rapper by more than 100 people including singer Dawn Richard.

The rise of social media and other visual platforms is shifting the narrative. In the past, women were often seen as secondary in male-dominated professions, but now, they are gaining visibility and influence.

For creative fields like the arts, Anusha is confident that female artists are finally able to showcase their talents on a larger scale. With platforms like social media, women can display their work and reach audiences in ways that were previously out of reach.

“I think especially now with this visual space that we have entered because of social media, we see women as being more at the centre stage. Even if we're talking about just musicians that are more celebrated now, like I think we see more because it is such a visual, visually driven media landscape that we are driving into,” Anusha Alamgir told Global South World.

“I think women now more than ever will have the time to call the shots. And I think being a woman artist in this day and age, it just will allow it, it will just continue to get progressively better for women.”

With the right tools and platforms to control their own narratives and show their work, Anusha is convinced that the contemporary woman has a bigger chance to call the shots in the professional world, rather than have to depend on men to do so.

"The rough Johannesburg canvas serves as an inspiration for me," Rhode explained to the AFP. "It motivates me to come back and inject energy, life, and a new narrative into these decayed spaces. It’s calling for regeneration," he remarked.

During his recent visit to South Africa, Rhode was deeply affected by the collapse of many once-thriving structures. This experience has driven him to use his art as both a form of revitalisation and a critique of the political systems he believes have failed the city.

"Seeing these collapsing structures had a profound impact on me," Rhode said. "It’s motivated me to come back and allow my art to function as a critique of the political systems that are also collapsing."

One of the key pieces in his new collection, titled Block of Flats, which he says mirrors the urban decay found in Johannesburg’s neighbourhoods.

The vibrant fabric of Zambia's cultural landscape was prominently displayed during the 2024 National Arts Festival in Lusaka. Organised meticulously by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Art and the Zambia National Arts Council, this festival served as a nexus for artistic expression, bringing together artists from various backgrounds. The News Diggers reports that through a series of captivating performances and fashion shows, this event underscored the emotional resonance of art while fostering a communal spirit, culminating in a celebration of creativity that reaffirmed the vital role of art in mirroring the nation's socio-cultural essence.

Google to build an AI centre

In a significant technological advancement, Google has announced the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence at the University of Zambia. This initiative comes after a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Technology and Science. As articulated by Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati, this AI centre marks a pioneering effort as the first of its kind in Southern Africa, strategically situated at the Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN). As reported by TechAfrica News , the primary objective of this centre is to empower young innovators, equipping them with the necessary tools to devise solutions for local challenges. Furthermore, ZAMREN's noteworthy achievement of connecting 150 institutions to high-speed internet is instrumental in broadening student access, thereby fostering an environment conducive to innovation.

Tanzania-Zambia Railway to be rejuvenated

The regional cooperation between China, Tanzania, and Zambia is set to rejuvenate the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA), which was initially established in the 1970s to enhance Zambia’s accessibility. This collaborative agreement, formalised during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, signals a public-private partnership aimed at the rehabilitation of this critical transport artery. According to Globely News , the revival of TAZARA is especially pertinent given Zambia's current financial challenges, as this renewed focus by China is also an effort to counterbalance the strategic movements surrounding the U.S.-backed Lobito Corridor project which connects Zambia to Angola’s Atlantic port. Concurrently, Tanzania is undertaking its railway network expansion, with aspirations to position Dar es Salaam as a pivotal trade hub in the region.

Huawei donates telecom towers

Huawei has donated equipment for 25 communication towers to enhance national communication services. The donation, including wireless and transmission technology power systems, was formalized during President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to China in September 2023 and solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Technology and Science in June 2024. Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati announced that Zamtel will oversee the construction of these towers in remote areas with limited phone service access, as reported by Telecompaper .

De-dollarisation strategy in progress

Zambia's central bank is actively engaging in a de-dollarisation strategy to mitigate the depreciation of the kwacha, which has faced a staggering 22% decline against the dollar over the past year. Governor Denny Kalyalya disclosed that this initiative, first announced in June, is designed to curtail the use of foreign currency in local transactions, thereby augmenting the effectiveness of monetary policy. Bitcoinnews.com reports this plan, however, has encountered criticism as Zambia grapples with the challenges of recovering from a debt default coupled with an extensive power crisis that restricts electricity supply to households. Despite the limited usage of foreign currency in everyday transactions, certain sectors, notably real estate and automotive sales, continue to engage in dollar-based pricing. The central bank remains in consultation with various stakeholders, and a timeline for the implementation of this de-dollarisation strategy has yet to be established.

These record-breaking sales highlight these items' immense worth and story as well as reflect the lasting prestige of owning a piece of history.

Here are the five most expensive items ever sold at auction according to the Times of India :

Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi ($450.3 Million)

In November 2017, Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi was sold at Christie’s in New York for an astonishing $450.3 million, making it the most expensive painting ever sold at auction. This masterpiece, showing Christ as the Savior of the World, is one of fewer than 20 known paintings by da Vinci.

Marie Antoinette’s Pearl Pendant ($36 Million)

Marie Antoinette’s Pearl Pendant was auctioned by Sotheby’s Geneva in November 2018 for $36 million. This exquisite pendant belonged to the French queen and featured a large teardrop pearl beneath a diamond bow. Its dramatic history of being smuggled out of revolutionary France significantly contributed to its high value.

The Codex Leicester by Leonardo da Vinci ($30.8 million )

The Codex Leicester, a collection of scientific writings by Leonardo da Vinci, was purchased by Bill Gates for $30.8 million at Christie’s in November 1994. This manuscript, which covers topics from astronomy to the properties of water, is the most expensive book ever sold at auction. It offers a rare glimpse into the mind of the genius.

Roman-era Statue “Artemis and the Stag” ($28.6 Million)

“Artemis and the Stag,” a bronze sculpture from the early Roman Imperial or Hellenistic period, was sold for $28.6 million at Sotheby’s New York in June 2007. This statue, depicting the Greek goddess of hunting alongside a stag, became the most valuable sculpture ever sold at auction at that time. Its sale raised questions about the deaccessioning practices of museums, as it was sold by the Albright-Knox Art Gallery to secure funds for future acquisitions.

Marilyn Monroe’s “Subway Dress” ($5.6 Million)

Marilyn Monroe’s iconic “Subway Dress” from the film The Seven Year Itch was sold for $5.6 million at an auction in Beverly Hills in June 2011. Designed by William Travilla, the dress is famous for the scene where Monroe stands over a subway grate, and the dress billows up. This piece of Hollywood history fetched a high price due to its cultural significance and Monroe’s legacy.

Wood painting has deep roots in Moroccan culture and is often seen in the decoration of private homes, palaces, and sacred spaces. Cities like Fez, Marrakech, and Chefchaouen are renowned for their exquisite painted wooden works.

Despite its beauty, traditional wood painting faces challenges in the modern era. There is the rise of mass-produced items and a decline in the number of skilled artisans threatening the survival of this craft.

However, artisans like Mustapha Laaroussi are dedicated to preserving this craft. By teaching the younger generation and promoting the cultural significance of wood painting, they hope to keep this tradition alive.

"This craft is in danger of disappearing, for want of a new generation to carry the torch that we hold today. In my workshop, I also work as a trainer to prepare new generations. However, I've noticed a growing lack of interest in many traditional crafts such as plastering and handmade zellige. We want to train new apprentices to ensure that these skills live on and prevent them from disappearing," he said.

She started as a dancer on a top Ghanaian kids reality show, Talented Kidz where she emerged winner and was discovered by her now partner Afronita, 20.

Together both amazing dancers began an incredible story. Beyond social media videos with various spectacular dance challenges, the duo applied for Season 17 of Britain's Got Talent where they wowed the world with their captivating performances.

At the finals on June 2, Abigail and Afronita not only showcased their rich Ghanaian culture through their colourful clothes and accessories but depicted the same through their dance .

They emerged third in the highly competitive finale of the global show, placing both Ghana and the African continent on the global map.

The duo received massive support from Ghanaians both at home and abroad during the competition and after their win.

The 17th edition of Britain's Got Talent saw Sydnie Christmas take the top prize and Jack Rhodes win second place.

The 10 finalists included a choir, a magician, and a Japanese skipping group. The winner of the 17th edition of BGT receives a cash prize of £250,000 and the chance to perform at the Royal Variety Performance.

UNESCO is also taking steps to preserve the world's languages out of concern that they could be entirely lost due to natural disasters, climate change, or other man-made crises such as global conflict.

"Language serves as the connective tissue of humanity, facilitating interaction, collaboration and shaping our perceptions of the world. Its preservation in all its diversity is essential to safeguarding human identity," UNESCO's press release in May stated .

UNESCO announced that a nano-engraved, nickel-plated memory disc will be sent to the moon in late 2024 aboard an ispace spacecraft. This disc will contain 275 versions of the 362-word preamble to UNESCO’s constitution, which advocates for the “wide diffusion of cultures” and “the education of humanity for justice, liberty, and peace.”

"In a joint initiative with Barrelhand, UNESCO has co-created a "Memory Disc", a nano-engraved nickel plate that will be sent to the Moon on board ispace's HAKUTO-R Mission 2 RESILIENCE lunar lander to be launched in Winter 2024. The disc bears the UNESCO Constitution's Preamble "Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men and women that the defences of peace must be constructed" translated into 275 languages. This symbolic gesture underscores global unity and the imperative of preserving linguistic diversity and culture," it added.

The disc will also feature a selection of cultural treasures, UNESCO stated, including "Le Petit Prince" by French author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Additionally, it will hold images of 100 paintings from various cultural backgrounds and historical periods.

"The Memory Disc also serves as a repository of cultural heritage, featuring an array of treasures including “Le Petit Prince” by the renowned French author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry - one of the world's most translated books. Furthermore, it houses a curated collection of 100 paintings, representing artists from diverse cultural backgrounds and historical epochs," adds UNESCO.

The door emerged as the evening's top lot, ahead of the whip wielded by Indiana Jones in The Temple of Doom, which fetched $525,000, Entertainment Weekly reports.

The film's director, James Cameron, reportedly put the debate surrounding the door's buoyancy to rest during Titanic's 25th anniversary in 2022.

"We have done a scientific study to put this whole thing to rest and drive a stake through its heart once and for all," Cameron revealed in an interview while promoting Avatar: The Way of Water.

"We took two stunt people who were the same body mass of Kate and Leo, and we put sensors all over them and inside them, and we put them in ice water, and we tested to see whether they could have survived through a variety of methods, and the answer was, there was no way they both could have survived. Only one could survive," he added.

Among the items available for auction were Marilyn Monroe's on-screen dress, Jack Nicholson's iconic ax from the "Hereeee's Johnny" scene in The Shining, and an authentic Stormtrooper blaster from the original Star Wars film released in 1977. Additionally, various artifacts from Titanic, such as the ship's helm wheel and Rose's distinctive white, pink, and lavender chiffon dress, were also included in the auction lineup.

Tensions have flared up between Ethiopian government security forces and the non-state militia, Fano across various areas within the Amhara region, Addis Standard reports. Clashes have been reported in the West and North Gojjam, North Shewa, and North Wollo zones with roadblocks among others. In Merawi town, there were heavy gunfire exchanges near government offices between security personnel and Fano militants leaving some civilians dead.

Ethiopia, Norway collaborate

The Ethiopian and Norway governments have signed a $75M partnership agreement. The landmark move is towards a wide array of collaborative initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development in “Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, conservation of forest carbon stocks, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stock. It is also targeted at fostering sustainable development and climate resilience within the context of Ethiopia’s Nationally Determined Contributions, The Climate Resilient Green Economy Strategy (CRGE) among others. It will also promote bilateral relations between both countries, according to Fanabc .

French reporter detained over conspiracy allegations

A French reporter has been detained in Ethiopia over alleged conspiracy to create chaos in the country. Antoine Galindo who reports for the Africa Intelligence news website was arrested by security officers at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel on February 22 while interviewing Bate Urgessa, a spokesperson for the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) a legally registered opposition party, according to the Habesha news portal. Galindo is said to have visited Ethiopia to cover the annual summit of the African Union and other news.

TPLF expells two party members

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has expelled two veteran members from the central committee and revoked their party membership. According to The Reporter Ethiopi a, the decision follows the actions of Keria Ibrahim and Mulu Gebregziabher including the divulging of sensitive information to adversaries. The party says the decision reiterates its commitment to uphold its principles and safeguard its interests. The two former party members used to hold dual roles as councillors and party affiliates. Keria served as Speaker of the House of Federation while Mulu was previously a state minister for Transport.

Ethiopian exhibition opened

 An Ethiopian art exhibition opened at the Embassy of Ethiopia in Brussels, Belgium on February 26, 2024. The exhibition which is the first of its kind is being held under the theme, “Ethiopia: Lands of Origins and Civilization”. The event was organized by the Embassy in collaboration with the Addis Ababa University School of Art and Design and Ethiopian Airlines. In attendance were dignitaries including the Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS) of the European Union Stefano Sannino, a representative of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Bart De Groof, and the Assistant Secretary General of the Political Affairs & Human Development Department at the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Dr. Norbert Richard Ibrahim, Fanabc reports.