Córdoba Governor Erasmo Zuleta said around 80 per cent of the department has been impacted, including 24 of its 30 municipalities. Local authorities reported that river overflows and prolonged flooding have damaged homes and rural infrastructure, with more than 33,000 families particularly affected following a series of cold fronts that hit the Caribbean region in late January. Residents described the floods as unavoidable despite efforts to reinforce riverbanks with sandbags and makeshift barriers.

Emergency agencies remain focused on protecting lives and providing shelter and food to displaced families, according to Colombia’s National Unit for Disaster Risk Management. President Gustavo Petro said the scale of the disaster exceeds the state’s normal response capacity, citing 14 deaths, around 9,000 homes destroyed and more than 300,000 people affected nationwide as extreme weather continues to strain vulnerable communities.

In Mozambique, authorities reported at least 103 fatalities since late last year as heavy rains inundated central and southern provinces, affecting more than 200,000 people and damaging thousands of homes. In neighbouring South Africa, floods have led to at least 30 deaths in the northern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, prompting the deployment of army helicopters to rescue those stranded on rooftops and evacuate residents, tourists and workers from flooded areas.

Zimbabwe’s disaster management agency has reported around 70 deaths related to the flooding, with more than 1,000 homes destroyed and critical infrastructure such as roads and bridges badly damaged. The combined impact in the three nations illustrates the scale of the crisis and the strain on emergency services already stretched by evacuations and ongoing rescue efforts.

The region’s wet season has been unusually severe, with prolonged downpours saturating soils and swelling river systems, contributing to widespread flooding and power outages. Officials and aid agencies have urged residents to remain vigilant, moving to higher ground where possible and following evacuation orders as further rainfall is forecast.

The floods have also disrupted key economic sectors, including agriculture and tourism , underscoring the wider social and economic challenges that disasters like this can bring to communities and governments across southern Africa.

Before departing, the contingent was briefed by Brigadier General Faustin Tinka, Commander of the RDF Mechanised Division, who spoke on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff. He urged the engineers to apply their technical skills and professionalism to ensure the mission has a visible and positive impact on communities affected by the storm.

Brigadier General Tinka also reminded the team to uphold the core values of the RDF, particularly discipline, which he said was key to earning the trust placed in them by the force’s leadership. He called on both officers and enlisted personnel to maintain these standards throughout the deployment.

Hurricane Melissa hit the Caribbean in late October 2025, causing widespread destruction. Jamaica was among the hardest-hit countries, with severe damage to roads, public facilities and other essential infrastructure. The scale of the devastation prompted a large, multi-agency humanitarian response .

Mount Mayon is the most active volcano in the Philippines. It has erupted more than 50 times in the past 400 years. The deadliest eruption was on February 1, 1814, when the town of Cagsawa was buried under ash and stones, killing more than 1,200 people .

The Indonesian government has announced a total ban on the import of rice, table sugar, and corn starting in 2026, citing rising domestic production and a push toward national food self-sufficiency. Senior official at the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs, Tatang Yuliono, said the decision follows a review of the 2026 National Commodity Balance, which shows the country has achieved self-reliance in these key staples for household consumption. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman said the policy was directed by President Prabowo Subianto to protect local farmers and breeders. The ban also includes industrial-grade rice imports, aimed at forcing businesses to source raw materials locally. The government projects table sugar production of 3 million tonnes and corn output of 18 million tonnes in 2026, both exceeding national demand, providing a buffer for price stability and food security.

Prabowo orders faster recovery of schools and hospitals after Sumatra disasters

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has instructed his cabinet to prioritise the restoration of schools, hospitals, and community health centres damaged by flash floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. Speaking during a limited meeting in Aceh Tamiang, he also urged officials to accelerate the construction of shelters for evacuees. The disasters, which struck on November 25, 2025, killed more than a thousand people and caused widespread destruction of homes and public infrastructure. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said that as of December 29, 87 affected hospitals have resumed operations, while most of the 867 damaged community health centres are functional, with eight still unable to operate normally. Efforts are also ongoing to clean and restore schools, with support from military personnel.

Alert level raised for Mount Bur Ni Telong volcano in Aceh

Indonesian authorities have raised the alert level for Mount Bur Ni Telong in Aceh to the second-highest level following increased seismic activity. Acting head of the Geological Agency, Lana Saria, said the volcano recorded multiple shallow and deep volcanic earthquakes, alongside tectonic quakes, prompting scientists to raise the alert on December 31. She warned of possible phreatic eruptions and dangerous volcanic gases near fumarole and solfatara zones. Residents and visitors have been advised to stay at least four kilometres away from the crater. The heightened alert comes as the region continues to recover from recent floods and landslides that killed more than 1,100 people across Sumatra.

Expansion of renewable energy investment in Indonesia

Abu Dhabi-based clean energy company Masdar has pledged to increase its investment in Indonesia’s renewable energy sector. The commitment was conveyed during a meeting in Abu Dhabi between Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly Eddy Soeparno and senior Masdar executives on December 27. Eddy said Indonesia, under President Prabowo Subianto, is accelerating its energy transition to achieve energy sovereignty while maintaining environmental sustainability. Masdar, already a key investor in the Cirata Floating Solar Power Plant in West Java, expressed support for Indonesia’s ambition to reach 100 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity. Indonesian lawmakers said several bills, including the Renewable Energy Bill and Climate Change Management Bill, are being prioritised to support the transition.

Indonesia records zero terrorist attacks in 2025

Indonesia has recorded zero terrorist attacks throughout 2025, marking the third consecutive year without an attack, according to the National Police. Criminal Investigation Agency chief Syahardiantono said the achievement was driven by proactive operations by the counterterrorism unit Densus 88. Police arrested 51 terror-related suspects in 2025, down from previous years, and foiled four planned attacks by the Jamaah Anshor Daulah group. Authorities also uncovered online radicalisation targeting children, affecting 110 minors across 23 provinces. During the Christmas and New Year security operation, seven additional suspects were arrested, while police said they intervened in cases involving children exposed to violent far-right ideologies.

Residents reported that water quickly overwhelmed their temporary shelters, washing away belongings and leaving families struggling to protect children and elderly relatives. Attempts to dig drainage channels in the sand were largely ineffective against the force of the storms.

Displaced parents described moving young children to safer locations while returning to flooded camps to recover what possessions they could. Many emphasised that tents provide little protection from harsh winter weather, calling for more durable solutions such as caravans.

Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA Commissioner-General, highlighted the impact on social media , noting that harsh winter conditions are compounding more than two years of suffering. He warned that people are surviving in flimsy, waterlogged tents and amid ruins, with their living conditions deteriorating further.

Local media reported that the storms have been deadly, with at least 17 people killed, including four children. Humanitarian agencies have cautioned that without improved shelter and protection, further casualties are likely as the winter season continues.

Philippines — Super typhoons and flooding | Southeast Asia

In 2025, the Philippines endured another punishing typhoon season as warmer ocean waters intensified storms across the western Pacific. Several super typhoons made landfall within months, unleashing torrential rains, storm surges and widespread flooding. Coastal and low-lying communities were repeatedly displaced, while damage to crops, homes and transport networks accumulated with each successive storm. Authorities warned that recovery time between disasters is shrinking, leaving millions more exposed. Climate scientists continue to link the growing intensity of typhoons to rising sea surface temperatures driven by global warming.

Mexico — Floods and landslides | Latin America

Severe flooding and landslides struck parts of Mexico in late 2025 after days of relentless rainfall overwhelmed rivers and hillsides. Entire neighbourhoods were submerged as infrastructure collapsed, particularly in regions already affected by deforestation and rapid urban expansion. Emergency services struggled to reach isolated communities as roads and bridges were washed away. The disaster once again highlighted how climate change is amplifying rainfall extremes across Latin America. For many vulnerable communities, the impacts were worsened by long-standing social and economic inequalities.

Nigeria — Flash floods | West Africa

In late May, torrential rains along the Kaduna River triggered devastating flash floods in Nigeria’s Niger State. Villages around Mokwa and Minna were inundated within minutes, killing at least 151 people and displacing thousands more. Hundreds of homes were destroyed, while farmland and transport links were severely damaged. Beyond the immediate death toll, the floods wiped out crops during a critical agricultural period, threatening local food supplies. Relief agencies described the disaster as one of the worst flooding events Nigeria has seen in decades.

Nepal — Glacial lake outburst flood | South Asia

A sudden glacial lake outburst on the Nepal–China border in July sent a wall of water down the Bhote Koshi river, devastating border communities. The flood destroyed major bridges and hydropower facilities, killing dozens and leaving others missing on both sides of the frontier. Nearly eight per cent of Nepal’s electricity generation capacity was knocked offline overnight. Scientists pointed to accelerating glacial melt in the Himalayas as a key driver of the disaster. The event underscored the growing risks climate change poses to high-mountain regions.

India — Monsoon floods and landslides | South Asia

India’s northeastern states faced deadly floods and landslides in June as unusually intense monsoon rains overwhelmed rivers and unstable terrain. Assam, Manipur and Meghalaya were among the worst affected, with dozens killed and thousands forced into shelters. Entire districts were cut off as roads collapsed and communication lines failed. While monsoons are a seasonal reality, experts warned that climate change is making rainfall more erratic and destructive. The disaster exposed the fragile infrastructure of one of India’s most climate-vulnerable regions.

South Africa — Unseasonal flooding | Southern Africa

In May, heavy rainfall from an unseasonal cold-front system triggered deadly flooding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province. Rivers burst their banks, sweeping away homes, schools and vehicles. At least 49 people were killed, including schoolchildren whose bus was caught in floodwaters near Mthatha. Authorities declared a national disaster as emergency crews struggled to reach submerged communities. Climate specialists noted that shifting weather patterns are making extreme rainfall events more frequent, even outside traditional wet seasons.

Brazil — Wildfires in the Amazon | South America

The Amazon basin experienced a surge in wildfires during 2025 as prolonged drought and record temperatures dried out vast stretches of rainforest. Fires spread rapidly across Brazil ’s northern states, destroying ecosystems, displacing Indigenous communities and releasing massive amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. Smoke from the blazes darkened skies hundreds of kilometres away, triggering health warnings in major cities. Scientists warned that climate change, combined with deforestation, is pushing the rainforest closer to a tipping point. The fires reinforced fears that the Amazon is losing its ability to act as a global carbon sink.

Argentina and Chile — Drought-driven fires | South America

Across the Southern Cone, extended drought conditions fuelled one of the most severe wildfire seasons in recent years. In Argentina and Chile, parched grasslands and forests ignited easily, allowing fires to spread across millions of hectares. Rural communities were forced to evacuate as livestock, crops and infrastructure were destroyed. Air pollution from the fires also affected urban centres, compounding public health risks. Climate change has lengthened fire seasons in the region, leaving authorities struggling to keep pace.

Horn of Africa — Drought and hunger | East Africa

In the Horn of Africa, prolonged drought conditions continued to drive severe food insecurity throughout 2025. Successive failed rainy seasons in Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya devastated harvests and livestock, eroding livelihoods across rural areas. Millions faced crisis-level hunger as water sources dried up and food prices surged. While not always officially declared as a famine, humanitarian agencies warned that conditions resembled past hunger emergencies. Climate change has intensified drought cycles in the region, magnifying the risks for already vulnerable populations.

Southern Africa — Crop failures and food stress | Southern Africa

Large parts of Southern Africa entered 2025 grappling with the aftershocks of drought and extreme heat that reduced crop yields and strained water supplies. Countries such as Zambia and Malawi reported poor maize harvests, pushing more households towards food assistance. Climate-driven heat stress disrupted planting cycles and reduced agricultural productivity. As rural incomes fell, food insecurity deepened across the region. The crisis illustrated how climate change can quietly undermine food systems long before famine is officially declared.

Former president Luis Arce was ordered into five months of preventive detention at San Pedro prison in La Paz on corruption charges linked to alleged irregularities in the management of the Indigenous Development Fund when he served as economy minister under Evo Morales. A judge cited risks of obstructing the investigation and flight, rejecting appeals for release despite arguments about his health and age. Arce has declared himself “absolutely innocent” and called the move politically motivated, while his legal team has already appealed the decision. Police and prison authorities say his security and rights are being respected, with special attention to his health and isolated accommodation.

Flooding in Santa Cruz leaves communities in urgent need

Severe rains and flooding in the Santa Cruz region have killed at least three people and affected around ten communities, according to Vice-President Edman Lara. He described the situation as critical and called for urgent national support to assist displaced families and restore basic services . Roads, homes and farmland have been damaged, escalating concerns about food security and access to clean water. Local authorities are coordinating with national bodies to reach isolated areas and distribute emergency aid.

Bolivia emerges as world centre for dinosaur footprint research

Bolivia has gained global scientific attention with the documentation of more than 16,600 dinosaur footprints at the Carreras Pampa site in Toro Toro National Park, a study published in PLOS One shows. These fossilised tracks, many attributed to theropod dinosaurs and featuring swim traces and tail drag marks, represent the largest known concentration of dinosaur footprints in the world, providing rare insight into behaviour and movement millions of years ago. Scientists say the varied footprints not only help reconstruct ancient ecosystems but also position Bolivia as a leading destination for paleontological research and geotourism.

Sweden shifts cooperation approach but will not close ties with Bolivia

Sweden’s ambassador to Bolivia stated that while Sweden will not withdraw from the country, it is changing its mode of bilateral cooperation to better reflect geopolitical shifts and development priorities. The new approach emphasises flexibility and aligning with global and regional conditions rather than cutting ties altogether. Bolivian authorities welcomed continued engagement, particularly in areas such as governance, human rights and sustainable development, even as both sides adapt cooperation frameworks.

FONPLATA announces $1 billion financing for Bolivia over next five years

Regional development bank FONPLATA announced plans to allocate US$1 billion in financing to Bolivia through 2030, signalling strong support for infrastructure, social and economic projects. The funding is expected to boost development priorities, including transport networks, water and sanitation, and urban resilience efforts. Bolivian officials said the commitment reflects confidence in the country’s economic strategy and could help stimulate growth amidst ongoing challenges such as climate impacts and institutional reforms.

The petitioner urged the court to direct authorities to take urgent steps to reduce the risk of catastrophic damage. 

A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta rejected the plea with a dose of dry humour: “So we should relocate everyone to the moon or where?” the judges asked, noting that such matters lie firmly within the government’s policy responsibilities, not the court’s.

When the petitioner pointed to a recent major earthquake in Japan as justification for intervention, the bench responded: “First we have to bring volcanoes into this country, then we can compare it with Japan,” implying that India’s geological conditions are fundamentally different.

The petitioner insisted that authorities should at least be required to prepare for potential disasters. The court disagreed. “That is for the government to take care of. This court cannot do it. Dismissed,” the bench said.

Attempts by the petitioner to rely on recent media reports were also brushed aside. 

“These are newspaper reports. We are not bothered about them,” the bench said, stressing once again that questions of seismic risk, infrastructure safety and disaster planning fall under executive decision-making, not judicial oversight.

More than 500 people have died , and hundreds more have been injured after devastating floods caused by rare cyclonic rains swept through Indonesia early last week. Rescue teams are still struggling to reach the worst-affected areas on the island of Sumatra, where thousands of residents remain cut off without access to essential supplies. Cyclone Senyar, described as an exceptionally rare tropical storm, triggered massive landslides and submerged thousands of homes and buildings. The effects of torrential rain extended beyond Indonesia, with Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka also hit by severe storms. Across Asia, more than 900 people have died this month as extreme weather continues to impact millions.

Indonesia posts smaller October trade surplus amid weak Chinese demand

Indonesia recorded a smaller-than-expected trade surplus in October as exports fell unexpectedly due to softer demand from China and reduced shipments of mining products, according to official data released Monday. The surplus stood at USD 2.4 billion, well below economists’ forecasts of USD 3.72 billion and down from September’s USD 4.34 billion, marking the smallest monthly surplus since April. Exports dropped 2.31% year-on-year to USD 24.24 billion, driven by lower coal and copper shipments. Analysts noted that exporters had accelerated shipments to the United States earlier in the year, ahead of tariff measures introduced in August. Operations at Freeport Indonesia’s Grasberg mine were also temporarily halted following a fatal mud-flow disaster in September, adding to the export slowdown.

Bank Indonesia warns of dim global outlook as protectionism reshapes trade

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has cautioned that global economic uncertainty remains high, driven largely by protectionist policies in the United States, which he said are reshaping the global economic landscape. Speaking at the 2025 Bank Indonesia Annual Meeting, Warjiyo projected a “dim” economic outlook for 2026 and 2027, citing declining world trade, weakened multilateralism, slowing growth in major economies, and persistent inflation complicating monetary policy. He highlighted additional risks, including high government debt in developed countries, rising financial system vulnerabilities, and the rapid growth of private-sector cryptocurrencies amid limited regulation. Warjiyo stressed the need for strong policy responses to maintain stability, strengthen economic resilience, and promote sustainable growth.

Prabowo targets renovation of 60,000 schools next year

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a government plan to renovate at least 60,000 schools across Indonesia next year as part of a nationwide effort to improve education quality. Speaking at the 2025 National Teachers Day event on November 28, he noted that the current pace of upgrades, including the ongoing renovation of 16,000 schools this year, remains insufficient. He instructed the finance ministry to explore possibilities for expanding the programme’s budget beyond the current ceiling of Rp20 trillion (USD 1.2 billion). The government is also advancing its tuition-free Sekolah Rakyat (People’s School) initiative for underprivileged children, with 166 schools established so far, serving approximately 16,000 students. Both initiatives form part of the administration’s long-term strategy to strengthen human resources ahead of Indonesia’s 2045 national vision.

Indonesia re-elected to International Maritime Organisation Council 

Indonesia has been re-elected as a Category C member of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 term during the body’s thirty-fourth session in London. Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi, who led the national delegation, confirmed that Indonesia secured 138 votes, placing fifth among 26 candidates. Category C includes states with significant interests in maritime transport and ensures balanced geographical representation. Purwagandhi said the result reflects Indonesia’s growing role as a global maritime hub and supports President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita mission, prioritising maritime development. He reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening maritime safety, promoting sustainable port development, protecting the marine environment, and supporting seafarers’ welfare as part of global efforts to build a more resilient shipping sector.

Authorities said there were no reports of deaths or injuries, but residents described a dramatic and frightening event, with the ground shaking and a column of smoke rising far above the desert basin.

The Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre reported ash clouds reaching an altitude of about 14 kilometres and drifting across the Red Sea. Plumes were later detected moving towards Yemen and Oman, and further towards India and northern Pakistan.

Locals on the ground spoke of panic as the eruption began without warning. 

Ahmed Abdela, who lives in Afdera, said the explosion “felt like a sudden bomb had been thrown," leaving families running from their homes.

The region attracts visitors heading to the Danakil desert, known for its salt flats and volcanic landscapes. Travel was brought to a standstill, with stranded tourists unable to move through ash-covered roads.

Officials warned that, although human lives were spared, the consequences for pastoral communities could be severe. Local administrator Mohammed Seid said ashfall had smothered grazing land vital for livestock.

“Our animals now have little to eat,” he said, noting fears that herds may perish if conditions do not improve quickly. Most residents rely almost entirely on livestock for income and food.

The volcano stands roughly 500 metres above sea level within the East African Rift Valley, an area shaped by the slow separation of tectonic plates and frequent seismic activity.

According to the Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program, Hayli Gubbi has no recorded eruptions during the Holocene – the geological epoch that began around 12,000 years ago – making Sunday’s event the first known in human history .

Rio Bonito was the hardest-hit city, accounting for five of the reported deaths, while another fatality occurred in the rural zone of Guarapuava. In response, the state government has declared three days of official mourning as rescue teams and emergency services continue recovery efforts.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences to the victims’ families through his official X account and reaffirmed the federal government’s support for local authorities. Meanwhile, regional officials have urged residents to remain in safe locations and comply with emergency instructions, as humanitarian aid and clean-up operations continue. A full assessment of damages and a partial reconstruction plan are expected to be announced soon.

Not long after Kalmaegi exited the Philippine area of responsibility, Fung Wong emerged, which eventually developed into a super typhoon. Its effects on the Philippines were more subdued, though two were still reported dead, while half a million were displaced. 

Due to the extent of the typhoons, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a 1-year state of national calamity for the country. Prices of essential products have also been put on freeze.

Situated beside the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines experiences an average of 20 tropical cyclones annually. It also sits on the so-called Ring of Fire, making it prone to seismic and volcanic activity. 

In Tegucigalpa, the El Reparto neighbourhood was among the hardest hit, with residents struggling to clean debris and rescue what little remains. “My house is destroyed. Practically everything we had is gone,” said one resident. “We’re like when you first move into a house, with nothing.”

Emergency teams continue relocating families from high-risk zones. “We’ve been conducting evacuation and humanitarian assistance efforts in this neighbourhood due to an ongoing geological fault. Around fifty families have been evacuated so far,” explained Angel Acosta, captain of the Armed Forces’ Humanitarian and Rescue Unit.

Authorities have set up at least 15 temporary shelters for displaced families, while over 2,000 homes are reported damaged, 76 destroyed, and 91 communities remain isolated. President Xiomara Castro convened an emergency meeting with the National Risk Management System (Sinager) to coordinate relief efforts.

Local media report that bridges, roads, and river crossings have been swept away, leaving several regions inaccessible. With forecasts warning of continued instability, authorities urge the population to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel.

According to the Government of Puebla, emergency relief efforts have been launched to support families whose homes were destroyed or damaged. Governor Alejandro Armenta toured flood-hit communities alongside army personnel and residents as part of the state’s coordinated response.

“There was a landslide and all the water entered our house. It affected everything. We practically lost all our furniture, our bed, everything,” said Alma Yasmin Cruz, a resident of the community of Patoltecoya, Puebla.

According to Mexico’s National Meteorological Service (SMN), the heavy rainfall has been largely driven by the two tropical systems over the Pacific Ocean, which continue to dump torrential rain across wide areas of the country.

Authorities have deployed civil protection brigades, medical teams, and cleanup crews to vulnerable regions, while setting up temporary shelters for evacuees displaced by flooding and landslides. Relief operations also include the distribution of food, blankets, and hygiene kits, as well as technical inspections to assess the structural damage to homes and public infrastructure .

Governor Armenta urged residents to remain alert and to follow official safety guidance, expressing gratitude for the solidarity shown by citizens and volunteer groups.

Meanwhile, President Claudia Sheinbaum announced via her X (formerly Twitter) account that she will convene a virtual meeting of the National Civil Protection Council on Saturday, October 11, to review the federal government’s ongoing response and coordinate further aid to affected communities.

The shallow quake struck at 9:59 p.m. local time, with the epicenter recorded off the coast of Bogo City at a depth of about 5 to 10 kilometres, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said. 

Authorities confirmed dozens of casualties in northern Cebu towns, including San Remigio, where a sports complex partially collapsed during a basketball game. Other victims were reported trapped under debris in several municipalities, with children among those killed.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office reported major disruptions in communication and electricity across Bogo, Daanbantayan, and San Remigio. Hospitals in the affected areas were overwhelmed with patients, prompting the deployment of additional doctors, nurses, and supplies by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Department of Health.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered a full-scale relief effort, directing cabinet officials to Cebu to oversee distribution of aid and assess damage. 

Emergency shelters were set up for displaced families as authorities appealed for food, water, and medical assistance in northern Cebu, where supply lines were cut by the quake.

Phivolcs reported that the earthquake generated a “destructive” Intensity 7 in several towns near the epicenter. No tsunami threat was detected, but nearly 800 aftershocks were recorded within the first 12 hours, including one at magnitude 6.

Local officials estimated that hundreds of homes and public structures were damaged or destroyed, including a 100-year-old church. 

Videos shared on social media showed residents rushing into the streets as buildings shook and crumbled. 

The earthquake disrupted daily life across Cebu, one of the country’s most important tourism and business hubs. 

Seismologists said the quake was likely triggered by a local fault line that had not generated a powerful tremor in more than 400 years. 

The Philippines sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active belt where earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur frequently.

Super Typhoon Ragasa has struck one of the world’s most populated regions. It has left destruction in its path and tragically taken more than a dozen lives. Yet perhaps the biggest surprise is that the damage wasn’t worse. Here’s why.

What is a typhoon?

Typhoon, cyclone, hurricane – these words all describe the same phenomenon. The difference lies in geography and language. In the northwest Pacific Ocean, it’s a typhoon . In the Indian Ocean or southern hemisphere, it’s a cyclone . Along the US coasts, it’s a hurricane .

All are giant storms formed when warm ocean water evaporates and rises, pulling in surrounding air. As the Earth rotates, the Coriolis effect causes this system to spin. These storms can stretch 1,000 kilometres across. In the northern hemisphere they rotate counterclockwise; in the southern, clockwise.

Contrary to myth, the Coriolis effect doesn’t dictate how water swirls down your sink—but it does govern the spin of these colossal storms.

When does a typhoon become 'super'?

Different regions measure storm strength in different ways. In the US, hurricanes are ranked from Category 1 (winds of 119 km/h) to Category 5 (over 252 km/h—the speed of a Formula 1 car).

In the Pacific, storms graduate from tropical storms (below 88 km/h) to typhoons (above 118 km/h). A super typhoon is the equivalent of a Category 5 hurricane, with winds over 240 km/h. That’s exactly what Ragasa became.

Many names

Naming storms helps authorities communicate more clearly and makes them more relatable as real threats. But names differ from place to place.

So one storm can have multiple names, depending on where you are.

Tracking Ragasa

Ragasa was first identified on September 17, upgraded to a tropical storm the next day, then almost immediately into a typhoon and super typhoon. On September 21, it struck Panuitan Island in the northern Philippines before moving towards southern China.

The storm’s toll included three deaths in the Philippines and fourteen in Taiwan, where a lake overflowed.

China’s Massive Evacuation Effort

The storm then struck Guangdong province, one of the most densely populated regions on Earth. The area includes:

Incredibly, nearly two million people were evacuated in a matter of days. That’s the equivalent of relocating the entire population of Vienna, Caracas, or Algiers almost overnight.

China managed this through a mix of extensive public services, door-to-door communication, robust transport networks, and a population that generally follows evacuation orders. This avoided the chaos often seen when people wait until the last minute to flee.

One community worker explained:

"At the early stages, we encouraged residents to make basic preparations, such as getting ready for evacuation, reinforcing doors and windows, and securing any loose items on their balconies."

And his example was followed by thousands of others visiting home after home.

For those without safe homes or relatives to shelter them, public facilities were converted into emergency shelters. In Shenzhen, some evacuees found themselves in school halls—simple accommodation with shared toilets, breakfast included, but little privacy or comfort. While Chinese media tends to highlight only the positive side of these operations, the sheer scale of the effort—2 million people relocated in days—remains extraordinary.

When Systems Work

Nature unleashed its full force: winds as fast as Formula 1 cars, storm surges, and rainfall measured in months delivered in hours. For those caught in floods in Taiwan and the Philippines, the results were deadly. Yet in the mega-cities of southern China, human systems held.

World Reframed is produced in London by Global South World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

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He noted a 2% growth in tourism for the first quarter of the year, which contributed to a 1% overall increase in national economic performance during the same period.

“After Hurricane Beryl and all the disruptions, travel advisories, political and geopolitical issues, we are back on the growth path, and that’s going to continue,” Bartlett declared.

The minister anticipates a significant increase in tourism earnings for the current quarter, particularly in comparison to the same period last year, when the island was recovering from Beryl's impact . “I’m worried about how big the growth is going to look for this quarter,” he remarked, “because… you’re comparing a Beryl period to now, a normal period. But that’s how growth goes. The good news is that you’re back to where you were in 2023.”

Addressing the 180 exhibitors and local entrepreneurs showcasing Jamaican-made goods at the trade show, he encouraged them to take advantage of the growing tourism numbers by aligning their products with the sector’s rising demand.

Since then, essential services such as water , electricity, and telecommunications have been restored. However, local residents continue to wait for major reconstruction projects to begin, as reported by AFP.

On his arrival in the capital, Mamoudzou, Macron addressed the challenges the region continues to face.

“I want to pay tribute to the resilience of the Mahoran people and of all our compatriots who knew how to, during all these months, withstand extremely difficult conditions ,” the president said.

“The situation before we even knew it was full of challenges. Water towers existed before the cyclone. The great economic and social difficulties were there. The period has been stabilised. I would say that we have responded to the extreme emergency. Now, I am here to see what has been done well and what is not done well enough to give a boost,” Macron added.

Macron faced criticism from residents during his December trip over the pace and scale of the government's response. He had promised a "full crisis response", but was met with frustration from the local population.

The French President responded to complaints, stating, "You are happy to be in France. If it wasn't for France, you would be 10,000 times worse off."

“Every time it rains like this, the first thing we get is a power cut,” Pierre Tshimpaka, a local resident, told the AFP. “They cut the power because they think if they leave it on during the rain, the damage could be enormous. And then, we can’t sleep - we are scared the water will overflow, damage the walls, and flood the plot.”

Kinshasa, a sprawling megacity of roughly 17 million people, sits along the Congo River, Africa’s second-longest waterway. However, despite its strategic location, the city is ill-equipped to manage seasonal rains. Drainage systems are frequently blocked by trash, and many poorer neighborhoods are riddled with unpaved streets and makeshift housing, making them highly vulnerable.

In the Lingwala commune, located in the heart of Kinshasa, residents say flooding is disrupting daily life and posing serious risks.

“We need to find a solution because Lingwala is right in the centre of Kinshasa,” said Paty, another local resident. “But look at how we suffer from the water. If you go to remote areas like Dodoma, it’s catastrophic. From Libenge to Mweka, it’s just water everywhere. People are in danger, there are no more roads—they’re all blocked, and getting around is becoming an ordeal.”

The combination of urban overcrowding, poor waste management, and weak infrastructure has made Kinshasa particularly susceptible to flooding disasters , especially in low-lying areas.

Panic quickly spread as shoppers realised what was happening. “Everyone was screaming and running, so I started screaming as well,” Gus recalled.

The sudden tremor left tourists and locals in shock, with many fleeing buildings in fear. 

Khin Aung, a 40-year-old survivor, is among those desperately searching for missing relatives. His brother was working inside the building when it crumbled, and he clings to the hope that he may still be found alive.

"When I went outside, I saw dust everywhere, and I just ran to escape from the collapsing building," Khin Aung told AFP. "I video-called my brother and my friends, but only one picked up the phone. I couldn’t see his face, but I heard him running. At the time, the building was shaking and had not yet fallen, but while I was on the call with him, I lost the connection - and then the building collapsed."

Emergency responders have transported at least 20 injured workers to the hospital, but Khin Aung remains uncertain whether his brother and friends are among them.

"I hope my brother and friends are in the hospital," he said. "But if they are trapped under the rubble, time is running out. If we don’t find them immediately, by tomorrow morning, there will be no hope left."

As night falls, distressed families gather at the disaster site, desperate for any sign of life. Among them is Chanpen Kaewnoi, who is awaiting news of her missing mother and sister.

"Yesterday, I heard the building collapsed. I worried about my sister and kept trying to call her, but there was no signal," Chanpen said. "Their colleague called me and said she couldn’t find my mum and my sister, who were with her on the fifth floor."

The disaster claimed an estimated 228,000 lives across 15 countries, with Indonesia suffering the heaviest toll. In Aceh province alone, officials estimate more than 200,000 people lost their lives. 

For many survivors, the pain of that day lingers. Baharuddin Zainun, a 70-year-old fisherman, lost his entire family. Clutching a framed poem, he shared how the tsunami reshaped his life and his community.

“This poem serves as a reminder for all of us, our community, and everyone, to never forget the memory of the tsunami. Our village was struck by the tsunami several years ago. When people read this poem, they shall be reminded about it,” Zainun told AFP. 

Recounting his loss, he added, “My children, wife, father, mother, and all of my siblings were swept away. The same tragedy was felt by others as well. Everyone affected by the tsunami shares the same experience. We feel the same feelings.” 

Marziani, a 51-year-old teacher, recalled her own grief and guilt after losing her child in the disaster. “At that time, I couldn’t stop crying. I felt guilty because I felt like I could not protect my child. Even though, when I think about it now, I realise I could not even protect myself, let alone carry my child. And that feeling of guilt lasted for months,” she shared. 

The CNT x Finsus Digital Platform is revolutionising the tortilla production landscape in Mexico by enabling approximately 18,000 vendors to transition from cash-based transactions to electronic payments. This app not only facilitates financial management for these vendors but also allows them to process utility bill payments, effectively increasing their income. The projected financial uplift for users ranges from 6,000 to 38,000 pesos monthly, and the integration of small-business loans and insurance services further enhances the utility of this platform. Mexico News Daily reports that CNT's target to have 40% of its members adopt this technology within a year signifies a significant step towards financial inclusion in the Mexican tortilla industry. Homero López García, CNT president, highlights the historical financial restrictions that this initiative aims to address.

Hurricane disruptions

Hurricane Francine has severely impacted energy production in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, causing around 39% of crude oil and 49% of natural gas outputs to cease. This disruption translates to approximately 675,000 barrels of oil and 907 million cubic feet of natural gas being compromised due to the storm's intensity, with winds reaching up to 90 mph. According to Offshore Engineer , The evacuation of 171 offshore platforms, accounting for 46% of total installations, underscores the storm's widespread effects, considering that the Gulf typically contributes about 15% of U.S. oil and 2% of natural gas.

Escaped tiger found

A Bengal tiger named Tony created a stir after escaping from a zoo in Reynosa, Tamaulipas. The tiger's escapades included attacking a local pig farm and chasing sheep; however, no significant injuries were reported. After a five-day search, Tony was captured using a chicken-baited trap in the vicinity of Los Longoria and is scheduled to be transferred to Tamatán Zoo in Ciudad Victoria. As an endangered species with a dwindling population of 2,000 to 2,500 specimens in the wild, his care and management are critical, leading to the closure of Quinta La Fauna Zoo until further notice post-escape, Mexico News Daily reported.

Influx of fake drugs

The health authorities in Mexico, through Cofepris, have raised alerts regarding counterfeit medications, specifically calling attention to six Bayer products including Cafiaspirina and Aspirina. These questionable batches have been deemed unsafe due to improper manufacturing protocols, and their problematic details were outlined, including incorrect batch numbers, lack of active ingredients, and unrecognised products. As reported by Mexico News Daily , consumers are strongly advised to verify lot numbers and steer clear of unregulated vendors when purchasing any related medications, highlighting the importance of product integrity in health and safety.

Investor confidence

The president of the Mexican Business Council for Foreign Trade, Investment and Technology (COMCE), Sergio Cardenas, has assured stakeholders that recent judicial reforms enacted by the federal government will not deter foreign investments, despite concerns about the judiciary's politicisation. Notably, foreign direct investment (FDI) has surged, with a notable increase of 7% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year, accumulating over $31 billion. According to Mexico News Daily , projections indicate that FDI could surpass $40 billion by year-end, buoyed by Mexico's robust export capabilities and vital role in trade with the U.S. The performance of multinational corporations such as Pirelli further illustrates the lucrative business environment within Mexico, reinforcing a positive outlook for ongoing investment initiatives.

The storm made landfall on Saturday, September 7, disrupting power supplies and cutting off telecommunications in Hanoi, the nation’s capital. Thousands of trees were uprooted, homes were damaged, and the city experienced widespread flooding as the typhoon's intensity overwhelmed infrastructure.

The Japanese government, through its disaster management minister Yoshifumi Matsumura, announced that no abnormalities in seismic activity or crustal deformation had been detected, leading to the decision to end the special alert.

"We have been asking for special precautions, such as sleeping while being prepared to evacuate immediately. But we will no longer ask for these steps, and the people of Japan are free to go back to normal lifestyles," Matsumura stated.

The initial warning prompted many Japanese citizens to cancel holidays, and stock up on essentials, and even led to some high-speed rail services reducing their speeds as a precaution.

Despite the lifting of the warning, experts caution that the risk of a major earthquake has not been eliminated. The Nankai Trough, which runs parallel to Japan's Pacific coast, has a history of producing devastating earthquakes approximately every 90 to 200 years, with the last significant event occurring in 1946.

"But it doesn't mean the risk (of a major earthquake) has been eliminated," Matsumura told reporters.

The anticipation of a megaquake has led to widespread concern among Japanese citizens. Many are worried about the potential devastation such an event could bring, recalling the catastrophic impact of past earthquakes like the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.

In response to the warnings, there has been a noticeable surge in the purchase of disaster preparedness kits and daily necessities. Stores across the country have reported increased sales of emergency supplies, including food, water, first aid kits, portable radios and tissues. Authorities have, however, urged the public to avoid hoarding, emphasising the importance of ensuring that everyone has access to essential items.

The psychological toll of living under the constant threat of a megaquake cannot be understated. Many citizens have expressed feelings of anxiety and helplessness.

According to a female Japanese who spoke on anonymity with AFP, she is "70 percent worried but on the other hand, I have known all along that a megaquake will happen at some point, so I would say I am relatively well prepared."

Tatsuji Noguchi, a company worker also said "I am a hiker myself so I’ve got maybe two weeks' worth of food and gas although I’m a bit short on water. I at least have a tent as well, so I’m optimistic we can manage as long as we have a safe place to evacuate to."

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called it "one of the worst natural calamities Kerala has ever witnessed."

"This catastrophe has resulted in the loss of 108 lives," he added in a statement cited by AFP.

"My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured," Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media platform X.

The Indian army has sent over 200 soldiers to help with the rescue efforts. However, rescue operations are challenging due to blocked roads. The National Disaster Response Force has been seen wading through mud and transporting bodies on stretchers.

The region's tea estates were hit by two landslides before dawn, affecting many residents and workers. Families of the deceased will receive $2,400 (200,000 rupees) in compensation. More than 3,000 people are now in emergency relief camps.

Recent months have seen severe flooding in Mumbai and fatal lightning strikes in Bihar. The deadliest landslide in recent decades occurred in 1998 in the Himalayas, killing at least 220 people.

Climate change currently is playing an increasingly significant role in the frequency and intensity of natural disasters.

Rising global temperatures are contributing to more severe weather events, including heatwaves, storms, and flooding. The melting of polar ice is also leading to rising sea levels, which increases the risk of coastal flooding.

While various nations experience the aforementioned disasters intermittently, there are a few countries in the world that hardly witness these misfortunes.

According to the 2023 World Risk Report , Andorra tops the list of countries with the lowest risk of natural disasters with a percentage of 0.2.

Following closely in second place is Monaco with a 0.24% chance of natural disasters. Additionally, San Marino places third with 0.36%.

For the fourth and fifth positions, Singapore and Luxembourg snagged them with 0.63 and 0.64 percent respectively.

Acknowledged for their low susceptibility to disasters on a worldwide scale, these countries possess strong economic structures, stable governance, and comprehensive legal systems. Such attributes make them attractive options for travellers and provide conducive settings for global business ventures and financial engagements.

The World Risk Index (WRI) determines the risk of becoming a victim of a disaster as a result of vulnerability and natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, storms, floods, droughts and sea level rise for 185 countries worldwide.

The WRI is based on 28 indicators and research data which are globally freely available and result in a global risk ranking and maps which allow for comparison between countries.

India says Canada has not provided evidence linking it to the death of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada. Three Indian nationals living in Canada have been charged in the assassination, but the investigation into their ties to the Indian government is ongoing. India has complained to Canada about harbouring Indian extremists and has been in diplomatic discussions about the case. The U.S. ambassador to India is satisfied with India's efforts to address alleged assassination plots against Sikh activists in the U.S. The Guardian reports that India has expressed concern about the linkage to officials and has promised to formally investigate the U.S. concerns.

Hindu citizens

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress of being "anti-Hindu" and wanting to make Hindus second-class citizens. He criticised the Congress party, accusing it of supporting reservations based on religion, which he argued are against the constitution. He alleged that Congress aims to diminish the status of Hindus within India, making them second-class citizens, Indian Express reported . He also highlighted his government's economic achievements and success in reducing terrorist attacks.

India supports Palestine's UN membership

The United Nations passed a resolution supporting full membership for Palestine, with 143 votes in favour including India. The resolution grants new privileges to the Palestinian Authority as a non-member observer state and calls for favourable consideration of their bid by the UN Security Council. According to the Business Standard , the U.S. and Israel voted against the text, and the US warned it would likely veto the request in the Security Council. The resolution endows the Palestinian Authority with new procedural rights and privileges in the UN General Assembly.

Natural disaster

Two persons have been killed and 23 injured after a massive dust and thunderstorm hit Delhi-NCR. Trees fell, buildings were damaged, power outages, traffic disruptions and flight diversions were reported. According to NDTV , more rain and thunderstorms are expected in the national capital. Strong winds and gusty winds were reported. Residents are advised to stay indoors and secure windows. Maximum temperature reached 39 degrees Celsius with 64% humidity.

India to keep China in check

India hails the 1998 decision to blast a nuclear weapon as a move to defend national security and keep China in check. The nuclear doctrine includes a "No First Use" policy and a commitment to nuclear disarmament, reports Express Newspapers . This decision is seen as stabilising in the region and has helped keep the world a safer place. The use of the ancient Sanskrit name Bharat reflects the transformation under Modi's tenure.

Ecuador and the UAE have agreed to negotiate a trade agreement, according to Ecuador's Minister of Production and Foreign Trade, Sonsoles García. “We highlight Ecuador’s interest in negotiating a trade agreement, to which Dr Al Zeyoudi proposed starting negotiations, to conclude it during this year,” García published on social media. The agreement was discussed during a meeting with counterpart Thani Al Zeyoudi of the United Arab Emirates, who is holding the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization. The United Arab Emirates received $601 million worth of Ecuadorian exports in 2023, while $18 million was brought in, resulting in a positive trade balance for Ecuador, local media Primacias reported.

Final liquidation of public companies

The President of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, has ordered the final liquidation of the Public Enterprise Coordinating Company (EMCO) to be completed within three months. The process, which involves 56 employees and an annual salary expense of $1,557,990, will reduce the number of public companies in the Central Government from 13 to 12, local media La Hora reports. According to La Hora, the presidency of the Republic will inherit all of EMCO's assets and liabilities, and the ministries of each sector will take on the duties of this publicly traded firm, including supervising the boards of directors of the other state-owned businesses.

Educational institutions affected by El Niño

The El Niño rains have affected 427 educational units in Ecuador, causing significant damage to coast-based institutions, according to the Ecuadorian Ministry of Education. Daniel Calderón, Ecuador’s Minister of Education has said that the ministry has prepared an investment plan of $2.4 million for cleaning, treatment, and rehabilitation. The El Niño phenomenon mainly affects Guayas, Los Ríos, Esmeraldas, Manabí, and El Oro provinces in the Latin American nation, local media El Telégrafo reported.

Oil investment

State-owned Petroecuador plans to invest $100 million in three or four exploratory wells in the Amistad Field, an oil and gas-producing field located in the Gulf of Ecuador’s second largest city, Guayaquil between 2024 and 2025, according to Bruno Salguero, Exploration and Production manager of Petroecuador. “For now we are visualising that Petroecuador is going to do that project,” Salguero is quoted by Primacias . The project was halted after the state oil company voided the international tender for the Amistad Field in December 2023, after it sought to award the project to a private company, Primacias reports.

Almost 2 million expired products found in candy shop

A candy shop in the El Recreo neighbourhood, south of Ecuador’s capital Quito, were found to be selling expired goods, according to the Ecuadorian National Agency for Health Regulation, Control and Surveillance (Arcsa). Arcsa, in an operation with the National Police, verified the expiration dates on 1,912,550 items, El Telégrafo reported. The establishment was closed and health processes began, potentially resulting in fines ranging from 4 to 10 unified basic salaries, El Telégrafo reports.

Peru’s Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism, Juan Carlos Mathews has reported the rapid recovery in the tourism sector of Cajamarca, a region in the northern highlands of the Latin American nation, surpassing pre-pandemic figures in 2023. According to local media El Peruano , the Minister said that between January and November of 2023, the Cajamarca airport received 289,000 people, 39.4% higher than in 2019.  “Cajamarca is achieving a faster level of tourism recovery than many other regions in the country. This is revealed, for example, in the arrival of passengers at its airport, or, to touch on recent data, in the arrival of more than 70 thousand tourists, both national and foreign, to Carnival 2024,” Carlos Mathews is quoted by El Peruano.

Care spaces for dengue fever

The Emergency Hospital of Villa El Salvador (HEVES) in Peru has increased temporary care spaces for dengue patients, with specialists training staff in early detection, sample collection, and referral to the hospital, Peruvian state news agency Andina reports. In 2024, 25 dengue cases have been treated at the HEVES, including an elderly female patient who died due to severe complications with a chronic illness, Andina reported.

Vaccination of children against measles

The Ministry of Health in Peru has urged parents to vaccinate their children against measles following two confirmed cases in the nation’s capital, Lima. According to Andina , the Vice Minister of Public Health Ricardo Peña said that the Latin American nation has a stock of vaccines, including 1.2 million doses for children under 5. Andina quotes the Vice Minister saying, “Rapid response teams have been deployed to track affected individuals and vaccination brigades are mobilizing to create a blockade around the identified cases.”

Housing for disaster victims

Peru’s Ministry of Housing, Construction and Sanitation (MVCS) has provided a Housing Leasing Bond for Emergencies (BAE) to families affected by Cyclone Yaku, an unusual low-pressure system in the far Southeastern Pacific that impacted Ecuador and northern Peru and El Niño Costero also called the coastal El Niño in 2023. According to El Peruano , the MVCS and local governments collaborated to enable 346 families affected by these disasters from 12 provinces and 50 districts in Cajamarca to submit documentation for subsidy collection. 43 families affected by collapsed homes have made the first payment of 500 Peruvian sol ($132.08) for up to two years to rent a safe living space, El Peruano reports.

Diplomatic mission abroad

Peruvian Vice Minister Jorge Chaparro presided over a farewell ceremony for military personnel on a diplomatic mission, highlighting the deployment of female personnel in the diplomatic mission who were sent to Argentina and India respectively, the state news agency reports. “You will be part of the network of 118 members who are deployed in 22 countries. This network constitutes a powerful tool to build friendly relations with the Armed Forces of the countries to which they have been assigned,” Chaparro is quoted by Andina.

Deputy General Director of the VNSC, Le Xuan Huy is quoted by the Vietnam Plus saying that the 570 kg satellite, which has a 1-metre imaging resolution, should be finished in May 2024.

In addition to satellite development, classes have been held to transfer technology for radar satellite image processing to get people resources and technology ready for the launch, Huy adds.

The country will have higher expectations after the launch of the LOTUSat-1 satellite in terms of precise information for preventing natural disasters.

The launch of the LOTUSat-1 satellite will boost the hopes of the nation to receive accurate information for natural disaster prevention.

Vietnam, with a 3,440 km coastline and complex topography, is highly disaster-prone, with 70% of its coastal population exposed to flooding risks, the WHO reports.

Overnight rains caused a mudslide in the Katesh township in northern Tanzania, killing some residents, injuring others and displacing hundreds of households. The tragedy occurred on December 3 with rescue attempts still ongoing. The President of Tanzania Samia Suluhu who was at the COP28 in Dubai when the tragedy happened in a statement said, “We have received the blessing of heavy rain in Katesh area, Hanang district, Manyara region which unfortunately has also brought disaster of floods. I am very sorry for the victims of this incident. I have directed our disaster response agencies to this area where they have already started the work to help rescue and prevent more disasters from happening. While these rescue efforts continue, let us put in prayers and supplications for all the victims and those who are on the front lines of the rescue work.”

Disability employment

Tanzania's Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office has announced the plans of the government of Tanzania to advertise over 11,000 new job opportunities in the education and health sectors. Persons with disabilities (PWDs) will receive 3% of the slots in the newly released guidelines for employment in the public service, local media Daily News reports. In an event organised by the Tanzania Federation of Disabled People’s Organisations in collaboration with the WHO for PWDs on December 1, the deputy minister told reporters that PWDs will make up 3% of every employment opportunity announced by the government.

Tanzania National Parks carbon project

Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) and Carbon Tanzania have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to implement a transformative carbon project across six national parks in the East African nation. The project, covers 1.8 million hectares, making it the largest land-based carbon initiative in East Africa. Local media the Citizen quotes the CEO of Carbon Tanzania saying, “Our innovative approach and unique business model is dedicated to conserving natural resources. We have extensive experience in collaboration with various levels of the Tanzanian government, from villages to districts and at a national level. Carbon Tanzania is the first, and only company, in Tanzania to develop carbon projects based on forest conservation and successfully channel revenues to local communities.”

Support for mudslide victims

The government of Tanzania will provide support for the victims of the mudslide disaster. The President of Tanzania Samia Suluhu has ordered the West African nation’s Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa to ensure that all treatments of injured victims are covered by the government. She added that the government provide permanent housing for those who lost their homes. “All our Government units and institutions related to the disaster are present at the scene and work day and night to ensure that the situation returns to normal…While the Government continues with these efforts, let's continue to keep all those affected by this disaster in our prayers and supplications,” she said in a statement .

Digital economic framework

 Tanzania is set to launch the Tanzanian Digital Economic Framework (DEF), a proposed national digital economy programme. The DEF will guide Tanzania in handling electronic messages and documents in its daily economic activities, Daily News reports. The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communication and Information Technology told reporters that the DEF is a full-fledged official document ready for formal launch. He added that the DEF will be formally submitted to the National Chairman of the Tanzania National Business Council, President Samia Hassan.

“There is a contingency plan for Brava Island, and there is also an evacuation plan, this plan was drawn up in 2016, following the recorded seismic crisis, but it is updated and provides for a set of actions for situations of this kind, actions that are being broken right now, and which we have been observing,” he is quoted by local media Expresso das Ilhas .

“We have been discussing the measures for the next few days which will involve convening the National Civil Protection Council. We are cautious, but there is no reason to be overly concerned, it is just prevention. We are also activating the entire National Civil Protection System which presupposes, under the terms of the Basic Civil Protection Law, that a Civil Protection contingency situation is declared,” he added.

Authorities have been monitoring the seismic activity around the island after tremors were recorded between November 19 and 20, local media Infor Press reported.

The West African nation has recorded cases of volcanic eruptions in the past. In 2014, a volcanic eruption near Fogo Island destroyed houses, roads, and farmlands, among others.

The Mexican government on Thursday terminated the emergency declaration in Acapulco and Coyuca de Benítez, two of the cities affected by Hurricane Otis. The decree published in the official gazette of the Mexican federation, declared the end of the emergency declaration issued on October 26, after the heavy rains and strong winds that occurred in those cities. The statement in the official gazette stated, “Following article 10 of the guidelines, the Declaration of Emergency (Agreement Establishing the Term of the Emergency Situation) is concluded after the occurrence of severe rain and strong winds on October 24, 2023, in the municipalities of Acapulco de Juárez and Coyuca de Benítez in the state of Guerrero.”  

Crypto agreement

Mexico has signed an agreement to observe crypto assets to restrict tax evasion and ensure tax compliance. The agreement was also signed by other nations like Germany, France, Brazil, Chile, the United States, and the United Kingdom, among others. Gabriel Yorio, an official of the Latin American nation’s treasury is quoted by local media La Jornada saying, “This declaration establishes a united global front to monitor the dynamics of the crypto asset market, through the automatic exchange of information. Participating jurisdictions, including Mexico, plan to incorporate the Crypto Asset Report (CARF) into their national legislation, activating information-sharing agreements to begin in 2027.”

Elimination of fiscal stimulus on fuel

The Mexican Ministry of Finance and Public Credit on Friday announced through the official gazette of the federation that consumers will no longer enjoy fiscal stimulus for premium gasoline for the upcoming week of November 11 to 17, 2023. This directive comes after consumers of premium gasoline enjoyed the fiscal stimulus from the Mexican government for 142 consecutive weeks, local media channel El Debate reported. For this week Magna gasoline and premium fuel will receive a support of 0%, meaning consumers will have to pay 5.9195 pesos ($0.34) and 4.9987 pesos ($0.28) of special production tax respectively. However, diesel will have a fiscal stimulus of 25.25%, dropping from 41.33%, El Debate reported.

3.7% industrial production growth

The Mexican National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) on Friday reported that industrial production in Mexico has seen a growth percentage of 3.7% in the first three quarters of 2023. "Based on original figures in all areas, led by construction at 13.7% and the generation, transmission and distribution of electrical energy, water and gas supply at 3.3%. Followed by advances in mining at 2.3% and manufacturing industries at 1.5%," INEGI reported.

Drop in inflation

The Mexican National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) has reported that the Latin American nation recorded a drop in inflation for October. “Mexico's inflation has been decreasing; in October 2023, it was 4.26 per cent, despite a 0.38 per cent increase in the National Consumer Price Index (INPC) from the previous month, which linked nine months of decreases,” INEGI reported. Mexican Economic analyst, Marcos Novelo is quoted by local media Excelsior saying, “Although this month the surprise was downward, there are several elements that will pressure in the opposite direction in the immediate future."

Beijing has shown an interest in running the multi-national railway line owned by Tanzania and Zambia. The Chinese may be looking to export copper via the Tanzania-Zambia railway line. As reported by the Tanzania Times , Beijing has been in talks with Lusaka and Dar-es-Salaam to take charge of operations of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA).

Heavy rains wreak havoc

More than 150 people have been left homeless after heavy rains demolished 30 houses in Kalambo district in the Rukwa region in Tanzania's southern highlands, Lazaro Komba, Kalambo District commissioner said on Friday. According to The East African , the Kalambo District commissioner expressed that some victims have taken refuge from their relatives while others have been accommodated in public schools.

IPU elects new president

National Assembly Speaker, Dr. Tulia Ackson, has been elected as the new president of the International Parliamentary Union (IPU), succeeding Portugal's Duarte Pacheco. Dr Ackson, a PhD holder in law, will lead the organisation, which represents legislators worldwide, for a three-year term. She won the election with 57 per cent of the vote in a single round, defeating three other candidates during the IPU's 147th Assembly in Luanda, Angola, according to The East African .

Heshimu Bahari project receives additional funds

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced an increase in funding from $13 million to $25 million for the Heshimu Bahari project, aimed at enhancing conservation efforts in critical areas for marine biodiversity and climate adaptation. According to Daily News reports, the decision will extend the project's reach along the south coast of the mainland, covering marine management areas such as the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve System, Mafia Kilwa Seascape, and Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park.

Women’s participation in politics

The Tanzania Centre for Democracy (TCD) has inaugurated a women's forum in Dar es Salaam to bolster women's engagement in politics and democracy. According to Daily News reports, TCD Chairperson Prof Ibrahimu Lipumba encouraged women to use the platform for constructive discussions on issues affecting them and advocated for a constitution that represents citizens' views.

 Vulnerability to earthquakes

Afghanistan, nestled amidst a ring of mountains, has a long and harrowing history of enduring strong earthquakes, particularly in the rugged Hindu Kush region along the border with Pakistan. In such regions, death tolls tend to rise significantly when remote areas are affected. The country's infrastructure has been greatly affected by decades of conflict, leaving it in a state of disrepair and making relief and rescue operations highly challenging.

A history of earthquakes in Afghanistan

A catastrophic earthquake in the Hindu Kush in 1991 claimed the lives of 848 individuals across Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the Soviet Union. Less than a decade later in March 2002, twin earthquakes struck around the same region, claiming a total of 1,100 lives.

One of the most significant earthquakes in Afghanistan's recorded history occurred in the Hindu Kush again in 2015. With a magnitude of 7.5, it resulted in the deaths of 399 people, affecting not only Afghanistan but also neighbouring countries, such as Pakistan and India.

A massive magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Qayen, the border region of Afghanistan and Iran in 1997. This disaster resulted in the loss of over 1,500 lives in both countries and led to the destruction of more than 10,000 homes.

In the remote northeastern province of Takhar, a devastating earthquake took place in February 1998, resulting in the deaths of at least 2,300 people, with some estimates reaching as high as 4,000. Three months later, a magnitude 6.6 earthquake in the same region claimed an additional 4,700 lives.

In June 2022, a powerful magnitude 6.1 earthquake wreaked havoc in the eastern province of Paktika, killing 1,036 people and causing widespread damage. This catastrophe led Afghanistan to seek international aid for recovery efforts. Just three months later, Afghanistan was hit by tremors in Kunar province, resulting in the loss of eight lives.

On March 21, 2023, a magnitude 6.5 earthquake struck the sparsely populated northeastern province of Badakhshan, specifically 40 km (25 miles) southeast of Jurm village. This earthquake resulted in the tragic loss of at least 13 lives in Afghanistan and neighbouring Pakistan.

European Union's commitment

The European Union has pledged $3.71 million in emergency humanitarian aid funding. This commitment is in addition to the 2.5 million euros already available for humanitarian partners actively engaged in relief operations on the ground. The primary needs identified at this juncture include emergency shelter, medical relief items, and access to safe drinking water and sanitation, especially in an area that has recently been affected by droughts. Notably, this new assistance supplements the 89 million euros previously allocated in 2023 for humanitarian organizations operating in Afghanistan.

Abu Dhabi's humanitarian assistance

Abu Dhabi's Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan charitable and humanitarian foundation has joined the relief efforts. In coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this foundation is providing emergency aid, including food, medical supplies, and various essential items.

United Nations' emergency reserve allocation

The United Nations' humanitarian coordinator has approved an emergency reserve allocation of $5 million from the Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund (AHF). This allocation will be rapidly processed by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and made available to eligible partners within 24 hours. Partners will be able to utilize their grants effectively from October 9. It's worth noting that the availability of AHF allocations is contingent on receiving additional donor resources. U.N. partners are working on an emergency appeal, which will be a subset of the existing 2023 humanitarian response plan.

Regional support from Pakistan, Iran, and China

Several neighbouring countries have stepped forward to provide support. Pakistan, Iran, and China have pledged a variety of aid, including food, blankets, medicines, tents, and financial assistance.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar has stated that Kabul specifically requested medical teams, field hospitals, tents, and blankets. These requested items are being dispatched, with additional relief goods to follow.

Iranian Foreign Minister Amir Abdullahian expressed the country's commitment to providing humanitarian aid and willingness to cooperate with Afghanistan in this challenging time.

The Chinese Red Cross Society has pledged $200,000 in aid, which will be directed to the Afghan Red Crescent, according to the Chinese state-run news agency Xinhua.

Turkey's offer of support

Turkey has also extended its support to Afghanistan's recovery efforts. The Turkish foreign office announced its readiness to provide assistance in the affected areas, contributing to the international response to the humanitarian crisis.