Ghana said the move is intended to prevent a further escalation of incidents that have generated tensions between some institutions in both countries, while promoting an amicable, rules-based outcome that preserves the longstanding relations between Accra and Lomé.

“Ghana has taken this step in order to avoid an escalation of incidents that have created tensions between some of our institutions and to promote an amicable resolution, thereby contributing to the continued good relations between our two countries,” a statement from the government of Ghana read in part.

Ghana is effectively asking an independent tribunal constituted under UNCLOS to determine where the maritime boundary should lie, a process typically aimed at producing a binding outcome when parties cannot reach a negotiated settlement.

In 2014, Ghana initiated proceedings against neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire after disagreements over their offshore boundary in the Gulf of Guinea, disputes that intensified following major oil discoveries in the area. That case was heard by a Special Chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), acting under UNCLOS. The tribunal issued a binding decision in September 2017 that largely upheld Ghana’s position and delimited the maritime boundary along an equidistance line.

Footage filmed by Viory shows local tour guide and environmental advocate Bonifacio Jomio snorkelling through the reef, searching for the starfish before injecting them with coconut vinegar. The method, carried out by hand, is part of a local effort to slow the damage and protect what remains of the coral ecosystem.

Jomio said the reefs were in far better condition before Typhoon Odette, internationally known as Rai. Since then, he explained, growing corals have increasingly been eaten and killed, prompting him to act in order to support both the marine environment and the coastal community that depends on it.

He described the use of coconut vinegar as a crucial alternative to chemical solutions. According to Jomio, the organic substance is fatal to the Crown-of-Thorns Starfish but does not harm other marine species, allowing interventions to be carried out without further damaging the reef.

Restoring coral reefs is essential for sustaining fish populations, Jomio said, as healthy corals provide breeding grounds for many species. He noted that the recovery process is slow, making protection efforts all the more urgent.

Despite the challenges, Jomio said his work is driven by a desire to preserve the reefs for future generations. His actions have attracted attention online, drawing praise from viewers while also prompting calls for wider institutional support to address the scale of the crisis.

“Before, we didn't sleep at night because you had the impression that the waves were going to come at any moment,” said Oka, a local teacher. “But these days we sleep a bit more peacefully. Now we're expecting much more structured and sustainable solutions to be taken to eradicate this phenomenon once and for all,” he told Viory.

In response to the worsening situation, both local and national authorities have stepped in with emergency interventions, including the construction of breakwater-style dykes designed to blunt the sea’s advance. These protective structures have helped stabilize the shoreline and bring temporary relief to affected residents.

“I think there's reason to be optimistic since the authorities installed the breakwaters and also with the rehousing of some of those affected,” Oka added. “Now we're living in peace, we have the impression that the sea is either receding or continuing to stay put.”

Among the displaced is fisherman Moussa Fall, who was relocated as part of a government resettlement program. “I personally thank the people who had the idea of moving us and bringing us here. They even deployed cars for our move. We didn't give any of our own money for this,” he said.

Fall recalled the harrowing conditions before relocation when they lost their homes and equipment as a result of the rising sea level. “We used to live by the sea, but at some point the situation got out of hand,” he said, adding that, “We used to take sandbags or tyres and put them around the walls or doors to stop the water. We lost a lot of equipment and spent whole nights without sleep just to absorb the water.”

While grateful for the housing solution, Fall says other challenges remain in the resettled area. “Our biggest problem is the installation of a police station or gendarmerie. Banditry is rife here. A checkpoint is essential,” he said.

Panama City Mayor Mayer Mizrachi proposed prioritising Bitcoin payments for Panama Canal transit fees at the Bitcoin 2025 conference. The canal, handling 5% of global trade, earned $5 billion from nearly 10,000 transits in fiscal 2024, despite drought-related caps. Mizrachi believes Bitcoin could streamline payments and attract tech-driven logistics firms, citing Panama’s current acceptance of Bitcoin for taxes. He’s seeking to expand this to canal fees without legislative approval, amid economic and geopolitical challenges. Former President Trump has called for regaining U.S. control of the canal, adding urgency to Panama’s modernisation efforts.

Chiquita Panama to lay off all workers as management exits

Chiquita Panama's management has left the country , and the company is seeking government approval to lay off remaining staff, the labour minister said. This follows the firing of 5,000 workers after a strike at a banana farm, which resulted in $75 million in losses. Thousands protested amid broader social issues, with President Mulino calling the strike illegal.

Panama denies involvement in enforcing Iran sanctions

Panama rejects claims by United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) CEO Mark D. Wallace that it fails to enforce sanction s. Through its Panama Maritime Authority (AMP), the country has de-flagged over 650 ships since 2019 to uphold international standards, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Panama works closely with the U.S. government, sharing ship registry details to fight terrorism financing and illegal fishing. In 2019, Panama signed the Registry Information Sharing Compact with other maritime nations to notify members of ships involved in sanctionable activities. Recent actions include new ship-to-ship transfer rules and Executive Decree No. 512, empowering Panama to de-flag vessels linked to sanctions. So far, 214 ships and 12 million GT have been removed. Panama remains committed to international maritime conventions and continues its cooperation with the U.S.

Panama’s Bitcoin policy and global financial stability impact

Panama City Mayor Mayer Mizrachi proposed allowing Bitcoin payments for Panama Canal tolls, stirring excitement and concern. Supporters argue it would streamline payments , reduce banking fees, and attract tech companies, transforming Panama into a digital hub. They also see Bitcoin as a tool to modernise the canal’s competitiveness in global trade. Critics, however, warn of Bitcoin’s volatility—a sudden price drop could hurt Panama’s revenue, which supports key services. They also fear regulatory backlash from countries wary of crypto’s ties to evading traditional finance. The debate: Can Bitcoin enhance trade or will it destabilise Panama’s economy?

Panama removes 650+ ships amid sanctions, tougher rules

Panama’s Maritime Authority has removed over 650 ships from its registry since 2019 to comply with U.S. sanctions and enforce stricter rules. Since last year, 214 ships have been withdrawn under new measures allowing faster action against violators. Panama responded to UANI’s criticism, which accused Panama of facilitating Iran’s oil trade and undermining sanctions. Panama says it shares information with other flag countries and enforces rules against ships that evade tracking.

Costa Rica’s tourism sector is witnessing modest growth despite significant competitiveness challenges, as reported by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT). In April 2025, international arrivals rose by 4.6%, yet concerns persist over exchange rate issues, higher costs, inadequate infrastructure, and public safety. Tourism Minister William Rodríguez anticipates an overall growth of 2-4% for the year, while industry leaders advocate for changes to stabilise the economy and improve safety, highlighting the need for structural reforms.

Costa Rica’s farms threaten wildlife

Costa Rica has one of the world’s highest per capita pesticide use . Banana and pineapple farming uses large amounts of chemicals like mancozeb, chlorothalonil, paraquat, and glyphosate—all to maximise production, with little regard for the negative impacts. In the Central Pacific coastal area, palm oil plantations—many replacing former banana farms—dominate the landscape. Palm oil, found in products from peanut butter to shampoo, requires clearing all vegetation, destroying biodiversity in the process.

Legislation to protect marine ecosystems

Independent Congresswoman Kattia Cambronero has introduced a bill aimed at safeguarding Costa Rica’s coral reefs and seagrass beds, addressing threats from pollution and climate change. The bill mandates the creation of a national marine wetlands inventory and establishes protocols for restoration projects. While aiming to enhance marine biodiversity, the legislation is seen as a necessary step amidst challenges, including recent coastal laws that could harm marine ecosystems.

Threat of parasites to howler monkeys

Research by the Awá Science and Conservation Association has linked a bot fly larvae outbreak in howler monkeys to tourism and land use changes in Costa Rica. The findings indicate that habitat disruption from tourism activities is weakening the immune systems of these monkeys, making them more vulnerable to infestations. The study calls for non-chemical solutions and highlights the need for continuous monitoring to protect these species and their ecosystems.

Road blockades amid Chiquita strike

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino is demanding the end of road blockades set by unions representing workers of Chiquita Brands, who are striking over recent layoffs and pension reforms. With 5,000 workers dismissed and significant operational losses incurred, the president’s stance is that the blockades must be lifted permanently to progress with legislative solutions. The situation has led to limited access to crucial supplies in the affected region of Bocas del Toro, exacerbating tensions between unions and the government.

Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced at the Malaysia Maritime Conference during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025.

He said the country must be ready for growing threats at sea and will rely more on shared intelligence and joint naval drills with other nations to improve safety and coordination.

According to The Edge Malaysia , the country also plans to update its laws to better deal with illegal fishing, pollution, and foreign ships entering its territory without permission.

Officials say these steps will help hold wrongdoers accountable and discourage criminal activity at sea.

Khaled said economic growth depends on keeping the seas secure.

According to him, illegal fishing, piracy, and smuggling continue to threaten Malaysia’s sovereignty and called for stronger patrols to protect trade routes and marine resources.

He added that newer technologies are helping security forces spot threats faster and study the deep sea more effectively.

The government hopes these moves will not only protect the country’s interests but also raise its profile as a key maritime player in the region.

The maritime conference is seen as a key moment for leaders, researchers, and defence experts to share knowledge and shape Malaysia’s future in sea security. 

The government says too many people are damaging the coral while trying to take pictures.

As a result, anyone learning how to dive, including their instructors, will not be allowed to take pictures during training unless they are in a special photography course.

The new rules began on 22 April.

They also include limits on group sizes. Only four divers are allowed per guide, and “try dives” must have one professional for every two people .

Snorkelling is only allowed where the water is deep enough and away from the reef. Snorkellers must also wear life jackets unless they are certified divers.

Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment said the changes are needed because the coral is in serious danger.

“The reefs have been badly damaged by diving tourism,” the official statement was quoted by Dive Magazine .

Other actions like touching coral, feeding fish, and throwing rubbish into the sea are now banned. Anyone breaking the rules could be fined, banned from diving again, or even jailed.

The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has clarified the performance of the Tanzanian Shilling, stating it depreciated by 3.6% over the past year but appreciated by 9.51% between July and December 2024, making it the best-performing currency globally during that period. Governor Emmanuel Tutuba attributed the recent depreciation since January 2025 to seasonal foreign exchange flows and a flexible exchange rate policy with minimal central bank intervention. He emphasised Tanzania's strong macroeconomic indicators, including a 5.4% economic growth rate in 2024, low inflation of 3.1% in February 2025, and a sustainable debt-to-GDP ratio of 41.1%. The current account deficit has also narrowed significantly. The BoT, according to The Citizen , dismissed claims from a recent media report labelling the Shilling as the world’s worst-performing currency, reaffirming its commitment to economic stability and effective monetary policies. 

Archaeological findings on old bone tools

Archaeologists have discovered bone tools in Tanzania's Olduvai Gorge dating back 1.5 million years, significantly older than previous finds in Europe from 400,000 years ago. These tools, made from large animal bones such as hippos and elephants, were shaped for butchering, indicating that early hominins, particularly Homo erectus, had advanced cognitive abilities for technology transfer much earlier than previously believed. This discovery sheds light on human evolution, showcasing Homo erectus's understanding of skeletal anatomy and the physical properties of bones, prompting questions about their choice of materials. Inkl reports that the finding emphasises the need for researchers to look for evidence of bone tool production in fossil records, which could enhance our understanding of early human technology and behaviour.

Documentation of family lineage

Tanzanians are encouraged to document their family lineages to preserve history and transmit values, as emphasised by retired history professor Prof. Fredrick Kaijage during the launch of the book ‘Life and Times of Omwami Evarista Kashaga of Kagera Region 1902-1983’. The book highlights the significance of identity and self-awareness rooted in understanding one's lineage. Dr. Frateline Kashaga, a contributor to the book, stressed that each family's unique history enriches cultural and national identity, warning that without documentation, vital knowledge could be lost. He urged families to share their histories and consider creating digital archives for future generations, The Citizen reports. The book, which includes historical narratives, is set to be available on social media platforms run by Kashaga's great-grandchildren.

Freight Train operations

Tanzania's standard gauge railway (SGR) freight train is set to begin operations in June 2025 after successful trial runs and necessary approvals. The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) is finalising agreements with the Tanzania Revenue Authority and Tanzania Ports Authority. The SGR system, which will eventually connect to neighbouring countries, spans approximately 2,561 kilometres, with the Dar es Salaam to Dodoma section already operational since June 2024. TRC has received 264 new wagons capable of carrying 120 tonnes each at speeds up to 120 km/h. The Citizen reports that, TRC has not requested operational subsidies since starting operations, aiming for self-sustainability. Future expansions include reaching Mwanza by 2027 and Kigoma by 2028, while a separate project will develop a southern railway network through private investment. The total value of SGR construction contracts is Sh29.58 trillion. 

Marine reserves

A recent study published in Conservation Letters reveals that Tanzania's marine protected areas (MPAs), established in the 1990s to combat declining fish populations, have led to improved living standards in nearby communities over nearly 20 years. Researchers surveyed 840 households in 24 villages and found that those within 5 kilometres of an MPA experienced significant enhancements in living conditions, such as home ownership and food security, compared to those further away. The study suggests that these improvements are linked to growth in sectors beyond fishing, such as tourism, rather than direct benefits from fishing opportunities. Despite the positive socio-economic changes, respondents reported fewer fish catches in 2021 than in 2003, indicating ongoing challenges for local fisheries. The researchers emphasise that while MPAs support diverse income generation, they have not necessarily improved fishery productivity, highlighting the complex impacts of such interventions on both communities and marine ecosystems.

The Commodore further emphasised the need for the vessel to leave China's flashpoint due to "structural damage to the vessel resulting from the deliberate ramming by the China Coast Guard on August 31, 2024."

According to pictures posted by local media, coast guards onboard the vessel were carried out on stretchers due to dehydration.

In response to claims of the Philippines relinquishing the Sabina Shoal to China after relentlessly guarding it for five months, Tarriela added that the country is on a journey of repositioning its vessels, debunking any rumours of facing defeat from China.

"It's not a defeat. As I said, related to my response a while ago, it's not also the Coast Guard abandoning our post in Escoda Shoal, we are just repositioning our own vessels. The only reason why we directed (BRP Teresa) Magbanua is to address the concerns that I mentioned. But it doesn't mean that the Coast Guard vessels will no longer be deployed there," Tarriela said at a news conference.

The South China Sea has been a hotspot for territorial conflicts among several nations, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei.

Last month, there were several clashes between Chinese and Filipino ships which China affirmed it was not going to put an end to.

"China will continue to take resolute and forceful measures following the law to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and uphold the seriousness of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea," China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning, stated.

What they said

Director of the Ghana Maritime Authority expressed excitement about the move, indicating the significant change it will bring for fishers in Ghana. "Ghana is proud to announce that we have ratified ILO Work in Fishing Convention, 2007 (No. 188). Prior to the ratification, we have been taking proactive steps to apply the Convention,” Nana Kwabena Boakye-Boampong was quoted . “This ratification cements our commitment to promoting decent work in the fishing sector, including the elimination of forced labour. It also provides us with international recognition for our significant efforts to protect and promote sustainability in the fishing sector," he added .

On Sunday, August 25, China launched another attack against two Philippine coast guard ships that had entered waters near the contested Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea.

However, in a press conference captured by the AFP, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Lin Jian, strongly defended the actions taken against the Philippines so far.

"Here, I want to again emphasise that Xianbin Jiao is part of China's Nansha Islands. On August 25, despite China's firm opposition and repeated warnings, a vessel from the Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources forcefully entered the waters near Xianbin Jiao in the Nansha Islands and deliberately collided with a Chinese coast guard ship that was lawfully enforcing regulations. The responsibility for the collision of the two vessels lies entirely with the Philippine side," he said.

The Chinese rep also emphasised that "The Chinese Coast Guard acted under domestic and international law in taking necessary measures against the Philippine vessel. Their actions on the scene were professional, restrained, and standardised."

Last week, another spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, Mao Ning, said China is resolute and will maintain "forceful measures" after the Philippine Coast Guard vessels BRP Bagacay and BRP Cape Engaño were involved in the collision with Chinese Coast Guard ships while en route to Patag and Lawak Islands.

"The Philippines' move seriously violated China's sovereignty, seriously violated the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and seriously jeopardised peace and stability in the South China Sea. China firmly opposes this and will continue to take resolute and forceful measures in accordance with the law to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and uphold the seriousness of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea," she said.

The Philippine vessels were reportedly conducting a routine resupply mission when they encountered what they described as "unlawful and aggressive manoeuvres" by the Chinese ships.

In response, China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning, stated that the actions of the Philippine vessels had "seriously violated China's sovereignty".

She emphasised that Beijing would continue to take "resolute and forceful measures" to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

"The Philippines' move seriously violated China's sovereignty, seriously violated the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and seriously jeopardised peace and stability in the South China Sea. China firmly opposes this and will continue to take resolute and forceful measures in accordance with the law to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and uphold the seriousness of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea," she said.

The Filipino government confirmed the collision and described the Chinese manoeuvres as aggressive.

"These dangerous manoeuvres resulted in collisions causing structural damage to both Philippine Coast Guard vessels," said Jonathan Malaya, Assistant Director General at the National Security Council of the Philippines.

The South China Sea has long been a flashpoint for territorial disputes involving multiple countries, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei.

China's expansive claims, marked by the "nine-dash line," overlap with the exclusive economic zones of several Southeast Asian nations. These overlapping claims have led to numerous confrontations and a complex web of diplomatic and military engagements.

What they said

PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo expressed hope that this engagement would lead to the establishment of communication hotlines between Manila and Hanoi for faster coordination according to the Inquirer . “That is one of the things we are looking at, to reciprocate this kind of activity,” Balilo said in an ambush interview, partly in Filipino. The drills are expected to promote information sharing and coordination in maritime law enforcement. “This will promote and enhance the efficiency of information sharing and the coordination in maritime law enforcement in accordance with international law, thereby contributing to the preservation and protection of the region’s maritime security and safety,” Col. Hoang Quoc Dat, vice commander of VCG Region 2 said.

Japan and the Philippines may soon sign a defence pact, strengthening military exchanges and allowing for joint military drills and security operations. The agreement aims to provide a broader alliance against China's assertive territorial claims in the South China Sea. The pact would also benefit both countries as they are involved in separate maritime disputes with China. Japan has backed the Philippines in its maritime dispute with China and supplied Manila with patrol vessels and military equipment. According to Benar News , the pact is expected to be signed ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s annual State of the Nation Address on July 22.

Kidnapping and murder

The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines has confirmed the kidnapping and murder of a Chinese citizen and a Chinese American who were senior executives at Chinese medical device companies. The victims met a person claiming to be an agent from the Philippines at a conference in Europe and then travelled to the country to explore business opportunities, but were kidnapped upon arrival, Yicai Global reports.

South China Sea dispute

The Philippines held talks with China to ease tensions following a confrontation in the disputed South China Sea. The meeting did not result in a major agreement but both sides affirmed their commitment to de-escalate tensions. They also agreed to improve communications during emergencies at sea and continue talks on enhancing ties between their coast guards. The Philippines plans to ask China to return seized rifles and pay for damages. Shropshire Star reports that the US has renewed a warning that it is obligated to help defend the Philippines under the 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty if Filipino forces come under armed attack.

Karaoke in the Philippines

Karaoke has become a popular pastime in the Philippines, with people singing in public places and in private homes. It is a communal activity and a central part of Filipino culture. The love for singing spans ages, geographical locations and social strata. Karaoke bars and KTV rooms are popular for socialising and bonding. The love for singing has an important social or family dimension. The social nature of karaoke draws everyone in, providing an opportunity for people to let their feelings out by singing their hearts out, Arab News reports.

Punishment over murder

China has urged the Philippines to catch and punish the murderers of a Chinese citizen who was killed in a recent kidnapping. The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines has called for a thorough investigation and for the perpetrators to be severely punished. The Standard reports that this is the third kidnapping case involving Chinese victims in the past year, and the two countries have previously cooperated in cracking down on crimes. The incidents could further strain already tense ties between China and the Philippines.

Susantha Kahawatte, the Director General of the Sri Lankan Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, has confirmed the navy's efforts to transport the severely affected fishermen ashore. Given the critical nature of their condition, immediate medical treatment has been administered on board.

This incident has ignited demonstrations in Tangalle , roughly 120 miles from the capital city of Colombo, with the community insisting on the swift repatriation of the ailing sailors for adequate medical attention. The event has also led to an inquiry into the substance within the bottles.

Egypt is experiencing severe heat with temperatures exceeding 40°C, leading to an energy crisis and scheduled power cuts. Residents are struggling with unbearable living conditions and increased power outages. The situation is expected to worsen, and the government has promised a resolution by the end of the year, Ynetnews reports.

Power outages

Egyptian MP has urged government to exempt southern provinces from power cuts after 40 deaths in Aswan due to heat wave. Heat and electrical overloads are causing extreme conditions in the south. The New Arab reports that government has also been urged to take prompt action to prevent further casualties.

Diplomatic talks

Iran and Egypt are engaged in diplomatic talks. The talks continue at the highest level after the martyrdom of late Minister of Foreign Affairs Hossein Amir-Abdollahain. According to Mehr News Agency , both countries have emphasised the road map for improving relations. There are hopes for favourable results.

Ship recycling and decommissioning

Brazil’s Porto Central and Modern American Recycling Services Europe are exploring the possibility of establishing a ship recycling and decommissioning yard in Porto, Brazil, to create jobs, revenue, and protect the environment. Safety4Sea reports that in Egypt, the country's first ship scrapping project near Damietta Port is underway, which aims to bolster the iron and steel industry and reduce reliance on imports. The project will meet global regulations and is expected to yield 1.5 million tons of scrap annually over five years.

Basketball league

African basketball pundits have praised Egypt for its strong local league, demonstrated by their teams' representation in the Basketball Africa League, VOA Africa reports.