Using the North American findings as a benchmark, the team reported differences by city. London’s gas contained about 64 times more benzene, Amsterdam about 73 times more, and Milan about 8.5 times more, compared with the earlier North American data.

The study also raised concerns about leaks inside kitchens. When researchers checked appliances while stoves were switched off, they found leaks in roughly 40% of kitchens. They estimated that about 9% of homes had leaks large enough to exceed recommended exposure limits under UK and EU guidelines.

A key problem, researchers said, is that many people may not get a clear warning. Gas utilities add sulphur-based odorants so leaks can be detected by smell, but the study found odour levels were often too low to alert households before benzene concentrations could rise to hazardous levels.

Ventilation helped reduce indoor pollution , opening windows or using extractor hoods lowered concentrations during cooking, but researchers said constant leaks would require hours of ventilation a day, making the issue hard to manage at the household level.

“This is really a systemic problem,” lead author Dr Tamara Sparks said, arguing that stronger measures, such as improving leak detection and increasing odorisation levels, could help people identify smaller leaks sooner and reduce long-term exposure risks.

Zhang’s family turned to social media after struggling to meet rising medical costs, and the appeal was widely shared by university students, helping the story gain traction locally.

On December 10, stall holders on the street — including vendors selling buns, desserts and drinks — agreed to donate all revenue for the day to Zhang. 

To do so, they replaced their own mobile payment QR codes with his, ensuring payments were transferred directly to his bank account.

Some stalls offered discounts of up to 20% to encourage sales, while notices posted at counters explained the fundraising effort. Customers were told that all proceeds would go towards Zhang’s medical treatment.

The initiative drew long queues throughout the day, particularly from students. Several vendors reported higher-than-usual sales, with some customers paying more than the listed prices.

A steamed bun seller surnamed Gao said his stall raised more than 1,000 yuan in a single day. He described Zhang as a hardworking vendor who often spent long hours at his stall to support his family.

The campaign attracted attention on mainland social media , where users praised the collective action by the vendors and students. Some commenters said they planned to visit the street specifically to contribute.

Zhang’s wife, Gong, said the family received about 20,000 yuan in total from the one-day effort. “This is a huge help for us,” she was quoted as saying. “With everyone’s support, my husband has more confidence to continue treatment.”

Local officials later said community groups were helping the family explore additional financial assistance, as Zhang remains in the hospital.

Mast cells are packed with inflammatory compounds and respond within seconds when activated. The research team investigated whether this rapid, powerful response could be redirected to break through the immune suppression commonly found in tumours.

Gu Zhen, a professor at Zhejiang University’s School of Pharmacy and a lead author of the study, said the idea emerged from observing how excessive immune reactions operate in allergies and asking whether a similar mechanism could be used against cancer.

Instead of reacting to allergens, the scientists reprogrammed mast cells using IgE antibodies designed to recognise proteins expressed on tumour cells.

Once injected into the bloodstream, these engineered mast cells homed in on tumours and released intense bursts of inflammation when they encountered their specific cancer targets.

The induced reaction helped alert the immune system, converting so-called “cold” tumours — which normally evade immune detection — into “hot” tumours that immune cells are able to recognise and attack.

The researchers also demonstrated that mast cells can act as transport vehicles for oncolytic viruses, which selectively infect and destroy cancer cells.

Encased within mast cell vesicles, the viruses were shielded from destruction in the bloodstream and released only after the mast cells reached and were activated inside tumours.

Tests in mouse models of melanoma, breast cancer and lung metastases showed increased infiltration of cancer-killing T cells and slowed tumour growth, the study reported.

The approach was also effective in patient-derived tumour models, where human mast cells equipped with IgE antibodies targeting the HER2 tumour marker and carrying oncolytic viruses produced strong T-cell responses and significant tumour suppression.

Gu said the findings point towards future personalised therapies, in which IgE antibodies could be matched to individual tumour markers, while mast cells could also be used to deliver drugs, proteins or nanomedicines, with further work planned to move the strategy towards clinical use.

She only knew that playtime with her father had become shorter, walks had grown fewer, and that one day he was gone.

But the tragedy did not end there. Seven years later, Fridah was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a bone cancer, that led to the amputation of her right leg.

Doctors later revealed both father and daughter carried Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS), a rare genetic condition that dramatically increases the risk of multiple cancers across generations.

"Elly was orphaned at a tender age, and his mother, brother and sister, who have all died, are suspected to have all died of cancer-related disorders,” wife of Elly, Joyce Abong’o said.

Li-Fraumeni Syndrome , first described in 1969, is caused by mutations in the TP53 gene, sometimes called the “guardian of the genome.” This gene normally prevents damaged cells from turning cancerous. When mutated, the body loses a crucial defence system.

According to the LFS Association, individuals with the condition have a 90% chance of developing cancer before age 60.

Sarcomas, breast cancer, brain tumours, leukaemia, and adrenal cancers are common, but others may also appear. Families often see multiple members develop cancer, sometimes at young ages, making genetic testing and early screening essential.

“Cancers related to this condition may occur at any age, but a characteristic feature is a high risk in childhood,” notes the LFS Association.

For Fridah, treatment has been difficult. After chemotherapy, she developed Myelodysplastic Syndromes, a blood disorder caused by abnormalities in bone marrow cells. Since 2018, she and her mother have been travelling annually to India for check-ups, surgeries, and prosthesis adjustments, an expensive, emotionally draining routine.

Joyce, once a film journalist, left her career to care for her late husband and now her daughter. She says the burden is not just medical but also financial and cultural.

“Many Africans believe LFS is a form of curse of some sort, and they likely are not educated or there has not been consistent awareness to educate people about LFS,” Joyce says . “There is a lot of stigmatisation for many patients if they happen to experience LFS disorders or cancer within the family set-up, thereby causing a lot of trauma to the families.”

Globally, advocacy groups like the Li-Fraumeni Syndrome Association (LFSA) have created international workshops to support patients. The 2025 Youth Workshop in Boston gathered families, doctors, and researchers for mentoring, genetic counselling, and lab tours.

Although Fridah could not attend due to treatment in India, these gatherings provide rare solidarity for patients scattered across the world.

In Africa, awareness is still limited. Samuel Omolo, a Kenyan researcher and LFSA Africa Chapter lead, is working to map inheritance patterns and prevalence rates on the continent.

“At the moment, I have been studying this rare syndrome and genetic predisposition in Africa to understand the inheritance patterns, founder gene, prevalence rate in Africa and how to increase advocacy by involving like-minded researchers from different African countries,” Omolo added

LFS may affect only around 1,000 families globally, but its impact is devastating. For families like the Abong’os, it means generations haunted by repeated cancer diagnoses, financial strain, and stigma.

Experts argue that genetic testing and early screening are key to managing the disorder — but in Kenya, access remains scarce. This forces families to travel abroad at immense cost.

Prosecutors at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Tuesday, September 9, began presenting evidence in the court’s first-ever in absentia hearing against fugitive Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony. The ICC accuses Kony, leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), of 39 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The militia terrorised northern Uganda from the 1980s before expanding attacks into Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan, and was notorious for using child soldiers, mutilating civilians, and enslaving women. Some Ugandans, including lawyer Okello Herbert, welcomed the proceedings, saying victims are deeply invested in the case. Judges will determine whether to confirm the charges, but Kony can only be tried if taken into custody.

Uganda Cancer Institute trains oncology super specialists

The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) has graduated 28 fellows from its two-year fellowship programme, designed to address the country’s shortage of highly skilled oncologists. UCI Director Dr. Jackson Orem described the graduates as “super specialists” with advanced training in oncology after completing prior specialisation in fields such as gynaecology, internal medicine, and paediatrics. He noted the milestone would improve access to high-quality cancer care and strengthen the nation’s healthcare system.

Uganda to host Africa’s first AI factory at Karuma

Uganda will host Africa’s first artificial intelligence factory inside the 600MW Karuma Hydropower Plant. The Aeonian Project, a 100MW hyperscale facility supported by global partners including Germany’s GIZ, Finland’s HAUS, and the EU Development Fund, will roll out in stages from 2026 to 2028. The first phase includes a 15MW AI module and a 10MW supercomputer, both fully powered by renewable energy. Oladele Oyekunle, CEO of Synectics Technologies, said the initiative will allow Africa to retain control of its data backbone and enable researchers to build AI models grounded in local languages and data.

Entebbe Airport enters final phase of $325m upgrade

Uganda is moving forward with the last phase of its $325 million expansion of Entebbe International Airport, aimed at transforming it into a modern regional hub. The project, which has already completed its first $200 million phase, includes terminal upgrades, new baggage handling systems, and increased passenger capacity. The second phase, worth $125 million, is now underway after COVID-19 delays. Authorities say the modernisation is part of Uganda’s Vision 2040 strategy to enhance tourism, boost trade, and strengthen international connectivity.

Uganda and South Korea launch rice seed project

Uganda and the Republic of Korea have launched a five-year, $3.9 million rice seed project under the Korea Rice Belt Program. The initiative, based in the Tochi Irrigation Scheme in Oyam District, aims to boost yields, improve farmer incomes, and reduce Uganda’s reliance on rice imports. Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze called it a timely intervention for food security. The project will rehabilitate 50 hectares of farmland, provide over 13,000 metric tons of high-quality rice seed, and train farmers in sustainable production practices.

What you need to know

The FMBA reported that the vaccine showed significant results in reducing tumour size and slowing disease progression. Effectiveness ranged from 60% to 80%, depending on the type of cancer, and increased survival rates were also observed

The agency plans to first apply the vaccine to colorectal cancer treatment. According to the Moffitt Cancer Centre , survival chances are particularly strong with early detection. Patients diagnosed with stage 1 colon cancer have a survival rate exceeding 92% over five years.

Skvortsova explained that the vaccine development has taken several years, with the last three focused on mandatory preclinical studies. “The research spanned several years, with the last three dedicated to mandatory preclinical studies,” she said.

While awaiting official approval, the FMBA is also pursuing vaccine research for glioblastoma and melanoma.

This marks a major step in Thailand’s efforts to make cancer treatment more affordable and accessible.

The breakthrough comes from the Chulabhorn Royal Academy under the leadership of Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana.

She launched a national effort to improve access to effective cancer treatment by setting up a pharmaceutical factory in 2020 at Phimanmas Residence in Chon Buri.

The facility meets international drug production standards and is the country’s first cancer drug manufacturing site.

Imcranib 100 is part of a new generation of treatments that aim to attack cancer cells more precisely, helping to avoid the harsh side effects of traditional chemotherapy.

Thai scientists have also developed a second major drug called Herdara, a targeted biological medicine for cancer treatment.

It was approved by the country’s Food and Drug Administration in May and is the first of its kind made entirely by Thai researchers without any foreign technology .

The study was conducted between April 2023 and February 2024 across Kenya, Ethiopia, Malawi, and Cameroon. Researchers collected 251 samples of commonly used cancer drugs, including cisplatin, methotrexate, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide, from 12 major hospitals and 25 pharmacies. Alarmingly, between 14% and 24% of all samples failed quality tests.

Active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) levels varied widely, from as low as 28% to as high as 120% of the labelled strength. This means some patients may have been receiving doses too weak to fight their cancer, while others were exposed to potentially fatal overdoses.

The study also revealed that nearly a quarter of the medications tested had already expired, some by almost a year. However, expired drugs did not consistently fail laboratory tests more than non-expired ones, suggesting that poor manufacturing and supply chain lapses are to blame for much of the problem.

“Nearly a quarter of the products (59 [24%] of 251) had expired before analysis, some by nearly a year, but the expired products did not fail HPLC assay at a higher rate than the non-expired products. Ten of the 59 post-expiry products failed assay (ie, a 17% failure rate), whereas 38 of the 189 pre-expiry samples failed assay (ie, a 20% failure rate); these rates were not different at the 95% CI. Failing products were found in all four countries and in both major hospitals and private pharmacies (with no difference in failure rates at the 95% CI),” the researchers noted.

Experts used high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to analyse the samples and compare them against the US Pharmacopoeia standards. They found that visual inspections alone were almost useless in detecting defective drugs. The sensitivity of visual checks was just 9%, meaning most poor-quality drugs appeared normal to the eye. “Many quality defects, such as a shortage of an uncoloured active pharmaceutical ingredient, are not visually apparent,” the authors explained.

Disclaimer: The image used in this article is AI-generated

Developed by Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Xiamen University, and Wantai BioPharm, this vaccine positions China as the second nation after the United States to supply high-valency HPV vaccines independently.

What is a valent?

In HPV vaccines, valent refers to the number of HPV strains targeted. A nine-valent vaccine, like Cecolin 9, protects against nine HPV types (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58), covering strains responsible for about 90% of cervical cancers and other HPV-related diseases, compared to bivalent (two strains) or quadrivalent (four strains) vaccines. This broader coverage enhances protection against cervical cancer, genital warts, and other HPV-related cancers.

Clinical success and accessibility

Since 2019, Cecolin 9 underwent five clinical trials across China, involving over 11,000 volunteers aged 9 to 45. Results, published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases , show a 98% protection rate against persistent HPV infections lasting over 12 months and 100% efficacy against cervical infections for types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. Notably, for girls aged 9 to 17, two doses suffice to match the immune response of three doses in women aged 18 to 26, making it China’s only two-dose HPV vaccine for this age group.

The vaccine’s immune response is comparable to international counterparts like Gardasil 9 for at least 30 months post-immunisation.

Global Implications

Cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer among women globally in 2022 , claims over 340,000 lives annually, with 70% of cases linked to HPV types 16 and 18. With China’s Cecolin 9, this menace could be potentially curbed due to increased production capacity and enhanced global supply and accessibility.

China’s move has seen 40% of Chinese girls aged 13 to 14 receiving free HPV vaccinations in 2024 . This aligns with the WHO’s 2030 goal to vaccinate 90% of girls by age 15.

Two medical doctors from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), employed at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital (QMMH), are under investigation for allegations of negligence, malpractice, and unethical conduct. One of the doctors is accused of reporting to work while intoxicated, endangering patients' lives, while the other is being probed for malpractice linked to his previous employment at Maluti Adventist Hospital in Mapoteng, Lesotho Times reports. Health Minister Selibe Mochoboroane confirmed that the Lesotho Medical, Dental, and Pharmacy Council has been tasked with investigating the matter and recommending appropriate action. “The investigation will primarily focus on how one of the doctors, who has an alleged history of malpractice and negligence at Maluti Adventist Hospital, was subsequently hired at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital,” Mochoboroane said. The investigation will also scrutinise the hiring process that allowed the doctor with a questionable past to secure employment at QMMH.

US visa scandal

As legislator Tṧepo Lipholo continues his controversial campaign to reclaim Lesotho’s purportedly lost land from South Africa, an official involved in facilitating his travel to the United States has been suspended. Japan Mntambo, Director of Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued a "Note Verbal" that allowed Lipholo to obtain a US visa for his campaign. However, Mntambo now faces suspension for allegedly issuing the document without parliamentary approval, Lesotho Times reports. Lipholo, the sole MP of the Basotho Covenant Movement (BCM), has previously submitted motions in Parliament seeking the return of Free State and other territories to Lesotho. The government, led by Prime Minister Sam Matekane, has distanced itself from Lipholo’s agenda, wary of straining diplomatic relations with South Africa. Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoana has labeled Mntambo’s actions a serious violation of protocol, warranting further investigation.

Lesotho’s growing cancer crisis

Lesotho is grappling with an escalating cancer crisis, with calls for urgent investment in local healthcare infrastructure. Health Minister Selibe Mochoboroane revealed that the government spends approximately M250,000 per cancer patient for treatment in South Africa, an unsustainable financial burden as cases continue to rise. Lesotho Times reports that in 2023 alone, the Sankatana Oncology Centre recorded 1,888 cancer cases, including 500 cases of cervical cancer. Speaking at the World Cancer Day commemoration, the minister emphasized the need for a national health system capable of managing cancer treatment locally. He proposed establishing a medical school to train local specialists and a dedicated health fund supported by employer and employee contributions. Despite the government’s efforts, including an HPV vaccination campaign with a 95% success rate and the construction of Lesotho’s first cancer center, experts stress the need for more skilled healthcare workers and better palliative care services.

Chinese embassy disowns Businessman Yan Xie

The Chinese Embassy in Maseru has publicly distanced itself from controversial businessman Yan Xie, popularly known as John, clarifying that he is not a Chinese citizen. The embassy has also dismissed claims that Chinese investors or officials in Lesotho are involved in Xie’s business dealings. Public Eye News reports that Xie has been at the center of multiple corruption and business misconduct allegations. A previous investigation into his nationality was launched by former Minister of Home Affairs, Motlalentoa Letsosa, but was inconclusive due to government changes in 2022. Xie reportedly fled to Australia amid allegations of financial impropriety.

Trade deficit

Lesotho’s trade balance remains a cause for concern, with the latest Southern African Customs Union (SACU) report revealing a widening deficit. In 2023, the country exported goods worth M15.3 billion while importing M31.7 billion. As a SACU member, Lesotho relies heavily on revenue from the union, which significantly contributes to its national budget. Despite government efforts to enhance local production, the country remains a net consumer rather than a producer, Informative News reports. Challenges such as border delays, red tape, and inadequate infrastructure continue to hinder trade, limiting the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The manufacturing sector, historically a key economic pillar, has also declined, reflecting shifts in global and regional market dynamics. The business community has urged the government to strengthen border efficiency, streamline customs procedures, and boost local production to capitalise on regional trade opportunities.

The mother of three, whose tumour would have previously been considered inoperable, says she had to be strong for her kids despite being in “a lot of pain.”

“I was really very scared at first... I had less chances to decide; I don't want or I would keep it because it was growing and at the end of the day it needs to be removed. So I just opted in and say, well, whatever comes up, I'm ready,” she told PA News Agency.

She was diagnosed with a meningioma in early 2023. While doctors planned to monitor the growth, a second meningioma was discovered in October of the same year, and the operation was performed in February 2024.

The complex procedure was performed by a team at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. To prepare, the surgeons practised using 3D models of Kaviya’s head and conducted trials in a cadaver lab. The surgery lasted just three hours, and Kaviya was able to walk the same day.

Since then, surgeons have performed similar procedures, offering new hope to patients with tumours previously deemed inoperable.

Traditionally, accessing tumours in such locations required removing a large portion of the skull and manipulating the brain, increasing the risk of complications like seizures. 

However, advancements in minimally invasive techniques and technology have reduced these risks significantly. 

“There’s been a move towards minimally invasive techniques over the last few years or so, with the advancement of technology, tools, 3D innovation, it is now possible to do the procedures with less morbidity, and that means the patients recover quicker and better,” neurosurgeon Asim Sheikh told the PA news agency.

Sheikh added that traditional methods involve “pressing on quite a lot of brain” to reach the tumour, which can lead to significant postoperative risks. “If you press on it too much, or retract it, or try and move it apart, then it can lead to patients having seizures afterwards,” he noted.

“I noticed a change for me and then, also, bloating and a little bit of pain in my stomach. I was 29 at the time and bloating with, you know, monthly periods and things in food nowadays that I didn't know if I was maybe gluten intolerant... it was just a little bit uncomfortable,” Bianca explained about her initial symptoms.

She first consulted her general practitioner in Wigan after experiencing persistent bloating and constipation. Tests, including a colonoscopy and biopsy, confirmed the presence of advanced bowel cancer. Doctors initially aimed to prolong her life rather than find a cure.

Despite the daunting diagnosis, Bianca remained hopeful. “I don't want to sound kind of ignorant or arrogant or anything like that, but I just didn't feel in my gut that that was going to be it,” she said. 

Her mother had enquired about the possibility of a liver transplant, but the procedure was initially deemed unsuitable.

Bianca underwent 37 rounds of a targeted drug therapy called panitumumab combined with chemotherapy over two and a half years. Her exceptional response to the treatment allowed her to have surgery in May 2023 to remove the bowel tumour.

However, scans revealed inoperable liver tumours. Given her remarkable progress, doctors reconsidered the possibility of a liver transplant.

She was added to the transplant list in February 2024 and received a donor liver last summer.

“Within four weeks of going under the knife, I was able to drive and walk the family dogs. It was really quite incredible. To go from being told I’d only have a short time to live to now being cancer-free is the greatest gift,” she said.

Dr. Kalena Marti, Bianca’s oncologist, expressed optimism about her recovery. “To see that Bianca has had such a positive outcome is wonderful. When we looked at the tumour cells in her liver after it had been removed, they weren’t active. This is excellent news, and we hope that this means that the cancer won’t come back.”

Bianca, happy about the outcome of the procedure, expressed gratitude to her donor’s family, saying, “I’ve been given a second chance at life, and I’m going to grab it with both hands. I do believe this is a cure. They’re always hesitant to say that, obviously, but I am cancer-free right now.”

According to data from World Population Review , here are the top 7 countries with the lowest cancer rates per 100,000 people:

Sierra Leone: With an age-standardized rate (ASR) of just 35.9 cases per 100,000 people, Niger has the lowest cancer rate globally.

Angola: Following closely, Angola reports an ASR of 76.8 cases per 100,000.

Gambia: Gambia reports an ASR of 79.2 cases per 100,000.

Republic of the Congo: DR Congo has an ASR of 80.7 cases per 100,000.

Nepal: This South Asian country has an ASR of 81.6 cases per 100,000.

Qatar: With an ASR of 82.4 cases per 100,000, Qatar ranks sixth.

Yemen: This Middle East nation reports an ASR of 83.1 cases per 100,000.

These benchmarks aim for 90% vaccination of girls against HPV by age 15, 70% screening of women at ages 35 and 45, and 90% treatment for those testing positive for cervical cancer.

Dr Tedros conveyed optimism in his statement, remarking on Rwanda's swift progress, particularly noting the country's achievements with the HPV vaccine since its introduction in 2011, which now boasts a coverage of 90%.

He highlighted that two of Rwanda’s districts are already meeting these ambitious targets. To ensure these goals are met, he emphasised the importance of robust political leadership alongside a comprehensive strategy that includes vaccination, screening, and treatment.

Further demonstrating its commitment, Rwanda plans to deploy a single-dose HPV vaccine this year, enhancing its vaccination efforts for cervical cancer.

Dr. Tedros pointed out that these targets are not merely aspirational but, with collective effort, fully attainable, even in low-income regions. He cited the successes of Bhutan and Nigeria in achieving significant vaccination rates as exemplary models in the global fight against cervical cancer.

Côte d’Ivoire leads sub-Saharan Africa in wine imports

Côte d’Ivoire emerged as the largest importer of wine in sub-Saharan Africa in 2023, with imports valued at $64.1 million, surpassing South Africa ($54.3 million), Namibia ($40 million), and Kenya ($23.9 million). The nation’s dependency on imported wines follows from limited local production due to its unsuitable climate for viticulture, a voluntary report by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) stated. Read more

Somaliland holds peaceful democratic elections

The de facto state of Somaliland held a peaceful and democratic election amid the rising tensions in the Horn of Africa. Citizens voted on November 13 for the next president in an election contested by the incumbent president Muse Bihi Abdi, his main opposition Mohamed Abdullahi and a third candidate Faisal Ali Warabe. The Somaliland National Electoral Commission is expected to release provisional results on 20th November 2024 at 6PM local time. Read more

South African Police standoff with hundreds of illegal miners in abandoned gold shaft

South African police were in a standoff on Thursday, November 14, with hundreds of illegal miners believed to be underground in a disused shaft, a day after a cabinet minister said the government was trying to "smoke them out". Read more

Asia

China opens biggest air show with fighter jets, attack drones

China opened its biggest air show in Zuhai in the Guangdong province. The event displayed advanced fighter jets, attack drones, and military technology to highlight China’s push to strengthen its military power. Read more

Indonesia's Mount Lewotobi eruptions destroy homes, force thousands to flee

Mount Lewotobi, a twin-peaked volcano in eastern Indonesia, erupted multiple times this week, forcing thousands of residents to flee to nearby shelters. The 1,703-metre (5,587-foot) high volcano spewed a massive tower of ash miles into the sky and unleashed fiery lava that ignited several houses in surrounding villages. Read more

More protests than ever in Bangladesh as country struggles with post-revolution transition

Despite the end of the uprising that saw the ousting of long-time leader Sheikh Hasina, protests in Bangladesh are at an all-time high, with more demonstrations erupting in the capital Dhaka than during the revolutionary period itself. Read more

Latin America

Tear gas and rubber bullets as Ecuadorians demand an end to energy crisis

A peaceful march on Friday, November 15 over Ecuador's ongoing energy crisis turned violent as protesters clashed with police in the capital city of Quito. The march saw participants carrying banners and chanting slogans demanding immediate government intervention to alleviate the energy crisis. Read more

How archery is helping Uruguay’s breast cancer survivors heal

The sport of archery is changing the lives of breast cancer survivors in Uruguay. Through an archery programme, Flechas de Vida (Arrows of Life), archery instructors are treating post-surgery conditions including lymphedema in breast cancer survivors. Read more

Venezuela releases some protesters detained over disputed presidential election

At least 93 people arrested during protests following Venezuela's contested presidential election in July have been released. The releases began on Saturday, November 16, across four prisons in central Venezuela, according to the AFP. The detainees were among thousands arrested after President Nicolás Maduro’s reelection, which opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia condemned as fraudulent. Read more

“My only goal when I was a kid was to go inside the box… the television, I thought it was just a box. I wanted to go inside,” Miles recalled in an exclusive interview with Global South World.

Unlike many child stars, who were pushed into the spotlight by their parents, it was Miles herself who pursued the acting world. “Some of the artists that I've worked with when I was a kid, it was their parents who wanted them to be in the industry. In my case, I am the one who asked my parents to bring me to the auditions,” she shared.

Over the years, Miles evolved from a child star into one of the most influential actors in the Philippines, appearing in movies, and TV shows, and even gracing the covers of magazines. In 2024, she ranked #9 in Global South World's list of the 60 most powerful actors on Instagram in the country. But with fame comes responsibility, something Miles has always taken seriously.

“Being a personality is such a big responsibility for me, especially with the influence,” she explained, acknowledging the weight that comes with being in the public eye.

In March 2023, Miles faced one of the toughest battles of her life: a diagnosis of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma, the most common type of thyroid cancer. This diagnosis came after she experienced difficulty breathing and discomfort in her throat, which at first didn’t seem serious.

“I felt dizzy all the time… like someone's grabbing my throat,” she recounted. “I was not aware that it was so serious. I was not aware that it was cancer.” Miles underwent surgery to remove her thyroid glands, a procedure that saved her life but also introduced new challenges.

Following her surgery, Miles faced another battle—depression. The removal of her thyroid glands led to fluctuations in her weight, a sensitive issue for someone working in an industry that emphasises physical appearance.

“I went through depression at the time because my thyroid case affected my weight. In our industry, you have to look presentable all the time. You have to look sexy. You have to look fit to fit into this industry,” she said.

Online comments criticising her weight gain only made things harder. “I've been reading comments that I look like a mom already… was I able to eat and eat,” she revealed. However, with the support of her loved ones, Miles found a way to cope. “With the help of the people around me, especially my partner, I just woke up and I don’t want to care anymore… why do I pressure myself so much with something I really can't control?”

Despite the challenges, 2023 ended on a high note for Miles. She starred in the movie “Family of Two”, a role that earned her the Best Supporting Actress award at the 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival.

She also returned to television as a co-host of “Eat Bulaga!”, the Philippines’ longest-running noontime variety show, airing for 45 years.

“I was supposed to be a guest host for a week only. And it’s my second year now,” she said. “Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine hosting a noontime show. It was life-changing for me.”

Miles expressed that her recent project, "Padyak Princess”, was the most memorable because of the responsibility she felt as the titular character. The show revolves around Miles’ character “Princess” who is determined to make the lives of those around her better.

“It's the first time that I was able to have a project that the title of the show was named after my role so it was a big responsibility,” she said.

At 27, with a career that has already spanned two decades, Miles Ocampo is in it for the long haul—exploring different roles as an actress. “I love this industry and I want to work in this industry because I live for the longevity,” she explained.

A career behind the scenes as a scriptwriter could be on the cards when she is not gracing the screens. “One thing that I'm sure of is I really want to write my own screenplay someday,” she disclosed her interest in life behind the scenes.

But for now, her focus remains on acting, using her platform to make a positive impact and trusting in herself.  As Miles put it, “I will just love myself and accept myself because no one will.”

Watch the full interview here :

Guyanese Arian Dahlia Richmond has been crowned Miss Global International 2024 at a pageant held in the Cayman Islands on October 13. Richmond triumphed over 18 contestants by showcasing her confidence and talent, earning multiple accolades including Best Interview, Best National Costume, Best Evening Gown, Best Talent, People’s Choice Award, Best Smile, and Miss Community Service.

Hundreds of students trained with important cybersecurity skills

Guyana’s National Data Management Authority (NDMA) conducted a two-day "Cyber Road Show" on October 16 and 17 in East Berbice-Corentyne. This initiative benefited over 450 students from eight local schools by providing essential cyber hygiene training aimed at enhancing awareness and promoting safe online practices among the youth.

Expansion of cancer screening efforts to include colon cancer

The Guyana Cancer Society (GCS) hosted its annual fundraiser on Saturday, October 19, highlighting the pressing need for cancer detection, particularly for colon cancer. Attended by significant health figures, including Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, the event aimed to raise funds for cancer awareness and early detection initiatives. Since its inception in 2022, the GCS has provided over 600 mammograms and is expanding its services to include colon cancer screenings, offering 10 free screenings this year. Additionally, the GCS is engaging in screenings for prostate cancer and HPV while advocating for a change in public perception regarding cancer. The organisation calls for increased collaboration with both government and private sectors to bolster cancer detection efforts in Guyana.

Programme for Hindu festival Diwali officially launched

Guyana officially launched its 2024 Diwali Programme, "Deep Jale," on Saturday, October 19, featuring an impressive light-up event to celebrate the victory of good over evil. Traffic management measures have been enacted, including road closures and diversions, to ensure the efficient flow of movement. Guyana is recognised for its substantial Hindu population alongside various other religions. The nation celebrates its cultural diversity through various festivities.

Guyana to benefit from climate mitigation initiative

Guyana is set to benefit from the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) initiated by the Inter-American Development Bank, which offers crucial funding and technical support aimed at enhancing weather forecasts and climate services across several Caribbean nations. In response to the ramifications of Hurricane Beryl on the region, SOFF will initially concentrate on vulnerable areas, beginning with Belize, which will receive an $800,000 grant. Other nations participating in this initiative include The Bahamas, Barbados, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, St Kitts-Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Researchers say the vaccine teaches the immune system to recognise and attack the early stages of the disease.

A jab will work similarly to the papillomavirus (HPV) jab which aims at preventing cervical cancer.

Professor Ahmed Ahmed and his team at the ovarian cancer cell laboratory at MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine at the university are working to identify cellular targets for the vaccine.

The cancer research in the UK is funding the study with up to 600,000 pounds over the next three years.

“It really will depend on the efficacy of the vaccine. So the work that we are set out to do is about testing the components of the vaccine to try to identify and shortlist components that are most likely to be the most effective ones. And then the hope is that this would have coverage of a wider group of women so that it would prevent ovarian cancer in those women,” Prof. Ahmed was quoted by the AFP.  

Whether it would eliminate as in completely abolish ovarian cancer. It's highly unlikely, but my hope is that it would have a significant impact on reducing the number of, uh, ovarian cancer cases in the future

Some countries have higher cancer incidence and understanding the varying numbers can provide insights into the factors contributing to these rates and help in developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Let's explore the top countries with the highest cancer incidence in the world:

Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Heman moved to the United States with his family at the age of four. Now residing in Annandale, Virginia, he developed the Skin Cancer Treating Soap (SCTS) last year .

The soap, a compound-based bar infused with various cancer-fighting chemicals, aims to provide an affordable and accessible treatment option for people suffering from different types of skin cancer.

Heman’s parents taught him and his sisters the importance of protecting their skin from prolonged sun exposure. However, he recalled some of his earliest memories were of seeing labourers working under the intense sun with little to no protection.

“I’m really passionate about skin cancer research… whether it’s my own research or what’s happening in the field,” Heman shared in his interview with TIME. “It’s absolutely incredible to think that one day my bar of soap will be able to make a direct impact on somebody else’s life. That’s the reason I started this all in the first place.”

The idea for the soap stemmed from Heman’s research into an effective skin cancer-fighting cream. He wondered whether such treatments could be made more widely accessible and affordable. He realised that almost everyone, regardless of socioeconomic background, uses soap daily, making it an ideal medium for delivering life-saving medication.

“What is one thing that is an internationally impactful idea, something that everyone can use, [regardless of] socioeconomic class? Almost everyone uses soap and water for cleaning. So soap would probably be the best option,” Heman explained.

Heman’s innovative soap was the winning entry at the 2023 3M Young Scientist Challenge , a prestigious science and engineering competition for students in grades five through eight. His entry earned him a $25,000 cash prize and recognition as one of the most promising young scientists in the world.

When asked in an interview earlier this year how he intends to make his product affordable and accessible, he said: “I have plans that by 2028, I hope to turn this passion project into more than that. I hope to turn it into a nonprofit organisation so that I can provide equitable and accessible skin cancer treatment to truly as many people as possible.”

The study, led by Paulos Yohannes, a chemistry professor and associate dean for research at Georgia State University’s Perimeter College, focuses on the medicinal benefits of plants native to Ethiopia.

Yohannes, participating under the Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Program , emphasised the importance of natural products in African traditional medicine.

"There are many medicinal plants that have been used by traditional healers for centuries. At this moment, preliminary studies have shown that we are working with plant extracts that exhibit anticancer activities," he noted.

The research aims to contribute to the reduction of cervical cancer deaths which according to the WHO , is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, with approximately 660,000 new cases and around 350,000 deaths reported in 2022.

The Ethiopian team, led by Professor Ermias Dagne, who has over 45 years of experience in the chemistry of medicinal plants, extracts materials from these plants. These extracts are then sent to Georgia State as crude extracts or isolated pure compounds to test their effectiveness in combating disease.

Georgia State Regents’ Professor and Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar Binghe Wang highlighted two crucial aspects of the project.

"The first is to assess these extracts or purified compounds for biological activity, starting with cell culture experiments. In searching for anticancer compounds, we look for those that exhibit potent cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Once the activity is confirmed, there is a set of spectroscopic experiments that we conduct to confirm the structures of the compounds," Wang explained.

Emirates has renewed partnerships with the Mauritius and Uganda tourism authorities, committing to promoting tourism to both nations. The airline plays a vital role in transporting visitors to Mauritius and aims to drive international travellers to experience Uganda's natural landscapes. Emirates will work with the tourism authorities to promote their destinations and stimulate the industry, Business Aviation reports.

Cancer hospital project

The Saudi Fund for Development has launched a cancer hospital project in Mauritius. The Korean Embassy in Riyadh recently hosted reporters from Saudi Arabia and around the world at the World Journalists Conference in Seoul. Discussions included media coverage of war, world peace efforts, and Korea's foreign policy. The conference also highlighted Korea's culture, landscapes, history, and scientific advancements. Arab News reports that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Korea and President Yoon Suk-Yeol's trip to Saudi Arabia have led to progress in bilateral relations. The tour included visits to various regions in Korea and the demilitarized zone.

Visa-free entry for Indian tourists

Thailand, Sri Lanka and Mauritius have extended visa-free entry for Indian visitors. According to Pune Pulse , the Tourism Authority of Thailand has reported a significant increase in Indian tourists since implementing the visa-free facility. Visa-free travel simplifies entry procedures, typically requiring only a passport. Other visa-free countries for Indian nationals include Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and Trinidad and Tobago, with specific entry requirements such as proof of return or onward ticket and sufficient funds.

Flight sickness

Dozens of passengers fell ill on a Condor flight from Mauritius to Germany on May 3, prompting a major medical operation at Frankfurt Airport. Emergency services were mobilised after passengers complained of feeling unwell, with about 70 reportedly falling ill. The crew was unaffected and continued the flight. The airline, which has not been disclosed yet has launched an investigation into the incident, according to The Singleton Argus .

Reality show

BBC Studios has started filming for a new reality show called Listing Mauritius which will showcase the luxury properties on the volcanic island. The 10-part series will follow real estate agents selling multi-million dollar homes. This follows the success of Listing Cape Town on BBC Lifestyle.

The Indonesian Oncology Association said that 242,988 deaths in Indonesia were attributed to cancer, largely due to delays in treatment and early detection. This information was shared during a discussion forum held to commemorate World Cancer Day titled "Close the Care Gap: Bring Attention to a Higher Level." Cosphiadi Irawan, the General Chair of the Indonesian Oncology Association, highlighted data from the Global Burden Cancer (Globocan) report of 2022, which estimated 19.9 million new cancer cases worldwide with a death toll of 9.7 million, local media Berita Satu reported.

Prices of commodities surge after elections

After the 2024 election, prices of various essential community needs in several traditional markets in Kebumen, Central Java, surged. Necessities experienced price hikes of up to 100 percent. At Tumenggungan Market on February 18, notable increases were observed in curly chillies and red cayenne peppers, reports local media Kompas . Wijiati, a trader at the market, attributed the spike to a possible shortage in the supply of goods due to farmers' participation in the general election, leading to heightened demand and scarcity.

Re-election

Four polling stations in the northern Prohibition area, TPS 01, 02, 05, and 06, conducted re-voting for the 2024 election due to flooding on the day of simultaneous voting, February 14, reports local media Republika . The Indonesian Election Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu) said that 2,413 polling stations were eligible for re-voting due to various issues such as natural disasters, floods, the presence of unregistered voters, incorrect distribution of ballot papers, and the detection of violations.

Prabowo dominates official vote count

In Indonesia's 2024 presidential election, Prabowo Subianto, alongside running mate Gibran Rakabuming Raka, maintained a commanding lead in the official vote count by the General Election Commission (KPU). With over 65 percent of the votes tallied from more than 820,000 polling stations as of Saturday at 02:00 PM WIB, Prabowo holds approximately 57.52 percent of the votes, positioning him for a potential single-round victory, reports local media Jakarta Globe . His closest competitors, Anies Baswedan and Muhaimin Iskandar secured 24.6 percent of the votes, while Ganjar Pranowo and Mohammad Mahfud MD attained 17.89 percent.

Election officials dead

As of February 17, 2024, 57 election officials from various groups, including the Voting Organizing Group (KPPS), community protection, and the Election Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu), have passed away. Data from the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) showed that the deaths comprised 29 KPPS members, 10 members of Community Protection (Linmas), nine witnesses, six officers, two voting committee members, and one member of Bawaslu. The officers' ages varied, with the primary causes of death being heart disease, accidents, acute respiratory disorders (ARDS), and hypertension, local media Republika reported.

"About 50% of new cancer cases in adults in Africa are due to breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal, and liver cancers. If urgent measures are not taken, cancer mortality in the region is projected to reach about one million deaths per year by 2030. Also, in 20 years, cancer death rates in Africa will overtake the global average of 30%. This is more so because cancer survival rates in the WHO African region currently average 12%, much lower than the average of over 80% in High-Income Countries ,” Moeti said in a statement .

Moeti highlighted positive efforts in the fight against cancer, noting that 17 countries have implemented high-performance-based screening tests in accordance with WHO recommendations. Additionally, 28 Member States have introduced nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, aiming to reach approximately 60% of the priority population targeted for HPV vaccination.

“We call on the region’s countries, communities, partners, and civil society to unite and foster universal access to cancer prevention and care. Stakeholders must identify feasible priorities, implement evidence-based population-wide interventions, and invest in cancer control,” said Moeti.

Further, new data released by the WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer highlighted disparities in the cancer burden among developed nations. In countries with a very high Human Development Index (HDI), a metric assessing achievements in health, education, and standard of living, the statistics reveal that 1 in 12 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 1 in 71 will succumb to it. In contrast, low-HDI countries exhibit lower breast cancer diagnosis rates (1 in 27 women) but higher mortality rates (1 in 48), primarily attributed to late-stage diagnosis and limited access to treatments.

“Over 35 million new cancer cases are predicted in 2050, a 77% increase from the estimated 20 million cases in 2022. The rapidly growing global cancer burden reflects both population ageing and growth as well as changes to people ’s exposure to risk factors, several of which are associated with socioeconomic development. Tobacco, alcohol, and obesity are key factors behind the increasing incidence of cancer, with air pollution still a key driver of environmental risk factors,” the report read in part.

The research report further indicated that lung cancer emerged as the most prevalent form of cancer globally in 2022, accounting for 2.5 million cases, which represents 12.4% of the total cancer cases reported.

Following this, the most common types further reported were female breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and stomach cancer. Lung cancer also claimed the highest number of lives among all cancer types, causing 1.8 million deaths, constituting almost 19% of the total cancer-related deaths.

The report further cites that the projected increase in cancer is attributed to various factors, including obesity, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and environmental factors such as air pollution .

“Deployed in Tanzania’s two most populous regions (Dar es Salaam and Mwanza), TCCP’s goal was to improve the organisation and quality of care provided in the country through financial and quality of care provided in the country through financial, technical, and material support, and so far, we have managed to do,” said TCCP Project Manager, Dr Harrison Chuwa.

Chuwa said out of the number of positive tests, 70 percent are women who have been diagnosed with cervical cancer and breast cancer at varying stages while most of the diagnoses for men have been prostate and colon cancers.

“I have been hesitant to present the report of the performance of the mammogram machine to the funders of this project due to the low number of people who have managed to be screened at Bugando. I urge you (Oncology HOD) to increase efforts by screening more people…

" There is only one mammography in the city of Mwanza for the several million inhabitants. However, this single mammogram accounted for at least 1 or 2 mammograms per week at the beginning of our work. In other words, some days, no woman came to be tested, and this is due to the low exposure of people to medical testing,” said Chuwa while addressing the issue of the availability of equipment for the screening and the general turnout.

The TCCP initiative is sponsored jointly by the Agence Française de Dévelopment (AFD) and the Aga Khan Health Service Tanzania (AKHS) worth Sh39 billion ( $15 million).