Jasmine Salinas will take over the primary driving duties for Scrappers Racing from her father, Mike Salinas, who is stepping back due to personal health matters. Jasmine will debut in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series at the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, California. She earned her Top Fuel license in 2023 and aims to field a two-car Top Fuel team for Scrappers Racing in 2024. The team, led by Rob Flynn, Arron Cave, Adem Cave, and Troy Fasching, is confident in her abilities.

Chris Bostick will join White Alligator Racing for the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season, as announced at the Performance Racing Industry show in Indianapolis. Crew Chief Tim Kulungian and WAR rider Chase Van Sant, the 2023 NHRA Rookie Of The Year, expressed excitement about Bostick's addition to the team. Bostick, known for his impressive 60-foot times, is expected to strengthen the team's performance. The team will prepare in the off-season for the NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla., starting in March.

Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Chris Bostick is optimistic as he prepares for the NHRA Nevada Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, part of the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series. Bostick, who is also a team owner, recently set a personal best and is looking to build on this momentum. Despite a mechanical issue and a leak in their motorhome affecting one of his new engines, Bostick is excited for the event, which coincides with Halloween weekend. Qualifying rounds and eliminations are scheduled for October 27-29.

Chris Bostick achieved his best performance of the season at the Texas NHRA FallNationals, qualifying in the top half of the Pro Stock Motorcycle field for the first time this season. Despite technical challenges, Bostick advanced to the semifinals, defeating Steve Johnson but exiting in the quarterfinals against Gaige Herrera. Supported by his family, including his veteran racer father, Bostick expressed satisfaction with his progress. Malcolm Phillips Jr., piloting a second entry for Chris Bostick Motorsports, also delivered a notable performance. The NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series continues with the NHRA Nevada Nationals in Las Vegas.

A new documentary titled 'Speed Queens: The Enders Sisters Story' will provide an in-depth look at the lives of Erica and Courtney Enders, two prominent figures in drag racing. Produced by FloFilms, the film captures their journey within the male-dominated sport, highlighting their professional and personal challenges and triumphs. The documentary aims to offer an authentic portrayal of their lives, showcasing their dedication, hard work, and the unique dynamics within their team, Elite Motorsports.

Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Chris Bostick experienced a weekend of highs and lows at the NHRA Midwest Nationals, achieving his best pass of the season while facing mechanical issues and tough competition. Despite setbacks, Bostick remains optimistic as he competes in the Countdown to the Championship for the first time. The drag racing community showed solidarity when fellow rider Angie Smith was injured, highlighting the sport's camaraderie. The next event in the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series is the Texas NHRA FallNationals in Ennis, Texas.

Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Chris Bostick remains determined in the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship despite early setbacks with new engines. At the betway NHRA Carolina Nationals, Bostick faced mechanical issues but remains optimistic about future performances. The series continues next week at the NHRA Midwest Nationals in St. Louis.

NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Chris Bostick drove over 1,300 miles to exchange engines and prepare for the NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway. He is making significant changes to his fueling system, reverting to a throttle body design that previously helped him achieve quick passes. Bostick, who qualified for the Countdown to the Championship for the first time, is willing to make sacrifices to improve his playoff performance. Qualifying rounds and final eliminations are scheduled for the end of September and beginning of October.

Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Chris Bostick is optimistic as he enters the second race in the Countdown to the Championship, marking his first qualification for NHRA’s playoffs. Competing at the betway NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway, Bostick is confident due to recent improvements and a new engine. He aims to capitalize on his performance gains and is eager for the upcoming races. The event schedule includes qualifying rounds and final eliminations, with television coverage on FS1.

Scrappers Racing Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Jianna Evaristo achieved a significant milestone by crossing the 200 mph barrier on her Valley Services Suzuki at the Pep Boys NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway. This achievement marks a high point in her career, especially after overcoming setbacks in 2022. Evaristo's performance has earned her a spot in the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship. She expressed gratitude to her team and supporters, highlighting the collective effort that led to her success. Evaristo aims to leverage her experiences to improve her ranking in the Countdown.

Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Chris Bostick made a strong debut at the Pep Boys NHRA Nationals, improving his points standing and achieving his best elapsed time of the season. Despite a mechanical setback, Bostick remains optimistic, focusing on the positive momentum gained. He celebrated his birthday at the event and looks forward to the next race in Charlotte, N.C., with a repaired engine and further adjustments to enhance performance.

Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Chris Bostick has qualified for the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship for the first time. Starting from twelfth place, Bostick is optimistic about his chances with three new engines. He credits his success to the support from his team and sponsors, including BPM Racing Engines and Volunteer Welding Services. The Countdown begins at the Pep Boys NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway, with Bostick aiming to finish in eighth place or better. The event will feature multiple rounds of qualifying and eliminations, with television coverage on FS1 and FOX.

Sakina Saidi, a striker for the Burundi first division women's football team Fofila, faces the dilemma of playing with an injury due to financial and team obligations. Women's football in Burundi provides a glimmer of hope amidst the country's political crisis, which has seen violence and mass exodus. Despite challenges such as funding and equipment shortages, initiatives like Fifa's Live Your Goals scheme aim to develop women's football. Saidi's earnings from football have supported her family, contrasting with the traditional early marriages for girls in her community. The article also highlights the disparity in transfer fees between male and female players and touches on the broader impact of sports on gender equality, as emphasized by Lydia Nsekere, a prominent figure in Burundi's football and the first woman on Fifa's executive committee.

The real estate market is experiencing various dynamics, with challenges in finding suitable properties for lease in big cities and the consideration of leasing costs within one's budget. The Wall Street Journal, referencing a Fannie Mae survey, indicates mixed sentiments about buying versus selling homes in the current economy. Home sales are expected to grow modestly, and while it may not be the best time to sell, it is an opportunity for sellers to prepare. The article also touches on tax-deductible home enhancements and the amenities that define luxury apartments, highlighting the importance of location, safety, and future development in property investment. Additionally, it discusses the significance of high-end appliances and designer finishes in luxury living spaces.

The article reports on a cholera outbreak in Kagunga, Tanzania, where approximately 50,000 Burundian refugees have fled due to violence and political unrest in Burundi. The refugees are stranded in Kagunga, with the only way out being the MV Liemba, a century-old ship. The United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) is working to evacuate the refugees, prioritizing the sick. The MV Liemba, with a history dating back to WWI, is now ferrying refugees to the Tanzanian port town of Kigoma. The situation is dire, with the outbreak of waterborne diseases like cholera, and the article recounts the tragic death of a young girl named Dinase during the journey. The International Rescue Committee is also mentioned as providing medical assistance. The crew of the Liemba continues to work tirelessly as the influx of refugees shows no sign of abating.

The article discusses the escalating violence in Burundi and questions whether the UN could have done more to prevent it. It highlights the closure of the UN's political mission BNUB in 2014, which was replaced by the less effective election observation mission Menub. The article details the political crisis following President Pierre Nkurunziza's controversial third term, the subsequent violence, and the African Union's decision to send peacekeepers. It criticizes the UN for not addressing the deep-rooted issues in Burundi and the government's human rights abuses.

Burundi faces severe economic turmoil as political unrest leads to a fourfold increase in bad debt and a projected 7.2% economic contraction. The crisis began when President Pierre Nkurunziza announced his third-term bid, sparking protests and violence. The UN warns of potential war, while international bodies like the IMF and EU express concerns. Economic activities, including banking, tourism, and industrial production, have been severely impacted. International aid, crucial for Burundi's budget, is being cut by donors in response to the political situation, further exacerbating the economic decline.

In Burundi, a deadly political crisis has forced over 280,000 people to flee their homes since April, with many more trapped in fear of violence and persecution. President Pierre Nkurunziza's decision to run for a third term has sparked protests, a coup attempt, and widespread violence, leading to severe human rights abuses by the ruling CNDD-FDD party and its militant youth wing, the Imbonerakure. Refugees like Moses Niyonkuru and Rodriguez Irakoze recount harrowing escapes to Tanzania, where overcrowded camps struggle to accommodate the influx. The UN and US have condemned the Burundian government's actions, while international pressure mounts for dialogue and resolution.

Burundi's political instability exacerbates the plight of street children in Bujumbura, with many facing violence, hunger, and lack of education. Social worker Dieudonné Ntahomvukiye, who once lived on the streets, now helps homeless children through the organization OPDE. The UN Security Council condemns the ongoing violence, while the US imposes sanctions on Burundian officials. UNICEF warns of the severe impact on children due to economic decline and reduced foreign aid, urging targeted support to protect the most vulnerable.

The article discusses the remarkable migration patterns of various animal species across the globe. It highlights the innate ability of these animals to navigate long distances, from the Antarctic to the African savanna and from the Pacific Ocean to Alaska. The article emphasizes that these creatures are the true explorers of the world, undertaking migrations that are ingrained in their species and passed down through generations.

Somalia's coastal community is facing a resurgence of piracy due to illegal overfishing by foreign vessels, particularly Iranian, Yemeni, and European ships. Research by Somali development agencies Adeso and Secure Fisheries indicates that these vessels are depleting fish stocks, with illegal catches three times that of local fishermen. The lack of economic opportunities and the inability of the Somali government to protect its waters are pushing locals towards piracy and other criminal activities. Despite the presence of NATO and the EU, there is little assistance in combating illegal fishing. Development organizations advocate for new legislation, better information sharing, satellite tracking, and investment in local fisheries to address the issue.

Pierre Nkurunziza has won a third term as Burundi's president in an election marked by violence and an opposition boycott. Nkurunziza secured 69.41% of the vote, significantly ahead of his main opponent, Agathon Rwasa. The election has been condemned by Britain, the US, and others as not credible due to harassment and intimidation. The country has experienced turmoil since Nkurunziza's bid for a third term, with widespread protests and a failed coup attempt. The election has deepened political divisions, and ongoing violence has forced over 167,000 people to flee the country. The head of the national electoral commission, Pierre-Claver Ndayicariye, remains optimistic about the election's significance for Burundi.

Burundi's President Pierre Nkurunziza voted in controversial elections following months of instability and a failed coup attempt. The elections were marred by violence, with at least two people killed in the capital, Bujumbura. Opposition candidates boycotted the vote, denouncing it as a sham. Most candidates on the ballot had withdrawn, and those remaining were not seen as viable contenders against Nkurunziza. The political climate has been repressive, with opposition politicians, journalists, and even members of the president's own party fleeing the country. Independent radio stations, crucial for information dissemination, have been silenced since the coup attempt. The US State Department condemned the elections, stating they lacked credibility and would further discredit the government.

John Nsengiyumva's tragic personal history underscores the severe land disputes and ethnic tensions in Burundi, exacerbated by political conflicts and historical violence. The announcement of President Pierre Nkurunziza's third-term bid, violating the Arusha peace accords, has intensified fears and led to mass displacement. Land scarcity and ownership disputes, particularly between returning refugees and current occupants, remain a critical issue. The national land board, CNTB, has faced criticism for bias, further complicating the situation. Experts warn that unresolved land conflicts could escalate, reflecting deep-seated ethnic divisions.

Burundi is experiencing a political crisis and escalating violence following President Pierre Nkurunziza's announcement to run for a third term, which the opposition deems unconstitutional. Over 80 people have died, and the youth wing of the ruling party, the Imbonerakure, is implicated in violent confrontations. The United Nations has reported abuses and warned of the situation's potential to worsen. Despite claims of nonviolence from some Imbonerakure members, there are allegations of the group receiving arms and support from the government. The capital, Bujumbura, remains tense, with fears of more extreme violence if free and fair election terms are not agreed upon.

Burundi is experiencing severe political violence following President Pierre Nkurunziza's announcement to run for a third term, which the opposition deems unconstitutional. The Imbonerakure, the youth wing of the ruling CNDD-FDD party, is heavily implicated in the violence, with reports of house-to-house killings and looting. The opposition demands the release of political prisoners and restoration of human rights. The situation is tense, with fears of escalating violence reminiscent of past conflicts. International observers are concerned about the potential for civil war, with the Imbonerakure likely playing a key role.

Burundi is engulfed in political violence following President Pierre Nkurunziza's controversial decision to run for a third term, which many believe violates the peace agreement that ended the civil war. The violence has resulted in over 80 deaths and more than 400 injuries, with opposition parties boycotting the upcoming parliamentary elections. Nightly attacks, including grenade assaults, have become common, and the situation is exacerbated by the lack of independent media. The violence has led to significant economic hardships, with rising food prices and decreased trade. The ruling party's victory in the elections is seen as a potential trigger for civil war.

Over 110,000 Burundians have fled to neighboring Tanzania due to protests and an attempted coup d'état, with a cholera outbreak exacerbating the dangerous conditions. Many refugees have previously fled during the civil war and returned after the 2005 peace agreement. The village of Kagunga is overcrowded, leading to a public health crisis with 27 cholera deaths reported. Aid agencies are struggling to provide clean water, medical care, and sanitation. The exodus is largely due to President Pierre Nkurunziza's controversial third-term bid and poor governance.

The MV Liemba, originally built in Germany in 1913 and now operating on Lake Tanganyika, has been instrumental in rescuing over 10,000 people in the past two weeks. The vessel makes two round trips daily, transporting people from Burundi to the Tanzanian port town of Kigoma. Despite its efforts, many more remain stranded, living in makeshift shelters. The ship's captain, Benjamin Titus, expressed pride in the vessel's long history of service.

President Nkurunziza of Burundi's decision to attend a conference in Tanzania amidst violent protests against his rule led to chaos and an attempted coup in Bujumbura. His departure provided an opportunity for opponents, including former colleagues, to strike, resulting in three days of turmoil.

Following an attempted coup in Burundi, the leaders were either arrested or fleeing, as President Nkurunziza returned to the capital, declaring his control. The coup's leader, the army's former intelligence chief, was detained after expressing hope that the rebels would survive. There are concerns of retribution by Nkurunziza, with police already killing a protestor in Buterere, a suburb known for anti-government protests.

Rival factions of Burundi's army were engaged in a battle for control of the state broadcaster amidst an attempted coup by the former intelligence chief. President Nkurunziza, who was in Tanzania during the coup's onset, reportedly returned to Burundi. The capital, Bujumbura, experienced gunfire and fighting, resulting in at least one soldier's death.

A coup in Burundi led by General Niyombare has resulted in the dismissal of President Nkurunziza, who was accused of violating the constitution by seeking a third term. The coup was announced amid public celebrations, and a temporary committee was established to restore stability. President Nkurunziza's spokesman dismissed the coup as a joke, while regional leaders, including President Kikwete of Tanzania, condemned the coup, emphasizing that it does not resolve Burundi's issues. Analysts predict the military will act swiftly to secure the country and prevent loyalist reprisals.

Thousands of Burundians took to the streets of Bujumbura after Maj. Gen. Godefroid Niyombare announced the dismissal of President Pierre Nkurunziza, who had left the country for a meeting in Tanzania. The coup attempt followed weeks of anti-government protests against Nkurunziza's bid for a third term, deemed illegal by opponents. The situation remains volatile with divided loyalties within the security forces, and fears of reprisal attacks by loyalist police and the Imbonerakure youth wing. Independent radio stations have been attacked, and the control of the capital is uncertain as clashes continue.

Commander Medikintos Inabeza, a female police officer, narrowly escaped being stoned to death by a mob in Burundi amid protests against President Nkurunziza's bid for a third term, which is seen as unconstitutional. The unrest has led to significant violence, with police and protesters clashing, resulting in deaths and injuries. The situation has prompted regional leaders and international diplomats to convene in Tanzania to address the crisis, as thousands of Burundians flee the country fearing violence from the ruling party's youth militia.

Felix Habarugira, a former child soldier, joins thousands in Bujumbura protesting against President Pierre Nkurunziza's bid for a third term, citing unfulfilled promises and disillusionment. The protests, which have resulted in at least 20 deaths, are seen as a violation of the constitution and peace accords. International pressure mounts as Belgium suspends aid and the EU and US express concerns over the elections' credibility. Ethnically diverse protesters demand justice and economic improvements, while the government faces criticism for media suppression and handling of the crisis.

Protesters in Burundi, spanning multiple generations and ethnicities, are uniting against President Pierre Nkurunziza's bid for a third term, which they claim is unconstitutional. The movement is rooted in the fragile peace established by the Arusha Peace and Reconciliation Agreement. The protests have led to violent clashes with police, resulting in a tense and unstable environment. The article highlights the historical context of ethnic violence in Burundi and the current unified opposition against the president's power play, emphasizing the fear of targeted killings and the government's harsh response to dissent.

Kenya faces deepening ethnic divisions and rising tensions between Kenyans and ethnic Somalis following the Garissa University attack by Al-Shabaab. The Kenyan government's heavy-handed and corrupt response, including extrajudicial killings and targeting of the Somali community, has exacerbated the situation. Activists like Boniface Mwangi blame the government for failing to protect citizens and fostering resentment. The article highlights the historical context of ethnic conflict and the role of foreign funding in perpetuating corruption and abuse.

Al-Shabab militants, who recently killed 148 people at a university in northeastern Kenya, have issued a threat of continued violence. President Uhuru Kenyatta vowed to fight terrorism and announced a reward for the capture of the attack's alleged mastermind, Mohamed Mohamud. Five suspects have been arrested, and one of the gunmen was identified as Abdirahim Mohammed Abdullahi, a Kenyan official's son. A survivor, Cynthia Cheroitich, was found after hiding for two days. The bodies of the attackers were displayed to the public in Garissa, as the town begins to recover from the tragedy. Al-Shabab claims the attacks are retaliation for Kenya's military involvement in Somalia.

Masked al-Shabaab militants attacked Garissa University College in northeastern Kenya, killing at least 147 people and injuring 79. The siege ended after 15 hours with the death of four gunmen. The attack is the deadliest in Kenya since the 1998 US Embassy bombing. Al-Shabaab targeted the university due to Kenya's military involvement in Somalia. Despite US drone strikes weakening the group, the attack demonstrates al-Shabaab's continued capacity to strike. The incident highlights the challenges in securing Kenya's vast border with Somalia and protecting soft targets.

Africa's first public-private water fund was launched in Kenya, aiming to fund water conservation through activities like watershed protection and reforestation. The Upper Tana-Nairobi Water Fund, initiated by the US-based NGO The Nature Conservancy, includes partners such as East African Breweries Ltd, Coca-Cola, and KenGen. The fund seeks to raise $15m to invest in the Upper Tana watershed, with a $10m investment projected to return $21.5m in economic benefits over 30 years. The initiative has already raised nearly $2m for a pilot phase and conservation activities. Critics argue that such funds are speculative and could exploit public environmental sensibilities for business gains. However, supporters believe it will save money for businesses and consumers, with KenGen expecting $6m in savings from avoided interruptions and increased water yield.

The closure of accounts by the last US bank specializing in money transfers to Somalia, Merchants Bank of California, is expected to have a devastating impact on millions of Somalis who rely on remittances. Remittance payments, which significantly exceed aid spending, are crucial for Somalia's economy and survival. Regulatory pressures and concerns over money laundering and terrorism have led to the closure of many remittance accounts. Key figures, including Congressman Keith Ellison, warn of the catastrophic effects on humanitarian efforts. Organizations like Oxfam and Adeso urge the US government to implement emergency measures to mitigate the negative fallout. The potential closure of remittance services threatens the livelihoods of many Somalis, particularly in regions where aid is scarce.

In Kenya's Turkana county, the discovery of oil has intensified violent conflicts between the Turkana and Pokot ethnic groups, who now vie for control over the oil wealth. The conflict, historically centered around livestock, has escalated to include attacks on villages and civilians. Tullow Oil, an Anglo-Irish company, is caught in the middle, with significant oil reserves at stake. Critics argue that the Kenyan government is marginalizing local communities in the oil development process, potentially turning the region's newfound wealth into a source of further strife.

The article highlights the pioneering efforts of the first female rangers in Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of the Congo. It focuses on Francine Bwizabule Muhimuzi and Alina Masika Kisambya, who have overcome significant challenges to protect the park. The piece discusses the broader context of gender equality, employment opportunities, and the socio-economic conditions in the region. Virunga National Park is praised for its exemplary employment practices, and the article underscores the positive impact of female rangers on the community and conservation efforts.

Peter Greste, an Al Jazeera journalist, discovered his Latvian citizenship while imprisoned in Egypt, which has become a pivotal factor in efforts to secure his release. Latvia, alongside Australia, is actively working to free him, with significant diplomatic efforts and legal support. The article highlights the broader context of human rights abuses in Egypt, the challenges faced by journalists, and the international diplomatic maneuvers involved. The upcoming EU presidency of Latvia is seen as a potential leverage point in advocating for Greste's release.

Turkana County in Kenya, home to the famous Turkana Boy fossil, is undergoing significant changes due to oil discoveries by Tullow Oil. Despite its archaeological significance, the region remains one of Kenya's poorest. The local government and community leaders are advocating for a fair share of the oil wealth to benefit the region's development. Richard Leakey, a prominent paleoanthropologist, supports initiatives to return Turkana Boy to the region and establish a comprehensive museum. However, challenges such as corruption, lack of infrastructure, and potential resource conflicts persist. The article highlights the need for transparency and equitable resource management to avoid the 'resource curse' and ensure sustainable development for Turkana's residents.

Irin, a media organization focused on humanitarian relief, will be relaunched after the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (Ocha) ceased its funding. The Jynwel Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Jynwel Capital, has committed $25 million over 15 years to support Irin. The organization will be based in Geneva with a presence at the Overseas Development Institute in London. Jynwel Capital's CEO, Jho Low, emphasizes the importance of long-term investment in sustainability. Irin, which was founded after the Rwandan genocide to address knowledge gaps in humanitarian crises, will maintain its focus on humanitarian reporting and seek financial viability through various funding models. It aims to achieve editorial independence and engage not only humanitarian workers but also the private sector in understanding and operating during crises.

The article highlights affordable tropical holiday destinations in Africa and the Indian Ocean, including Zanzibar in Tanzania, The Hairy Lemon in Uganda, Camp Carnelleys in Kenya, Zona Braza Beach Lodge in Mozambique, Kintana Guesthouse in Madagascar, The Blue Beryl Guesthouse in Mauritius, and Vaali Beach Lodge in the Maldives. Each destination offers unique experiences, from beachside bungalows and private islands to adventure activities and local cultural interactions, all under £40.

Goma, once synonymous with conflict and crisis, is experiencing a resurgence with new businesses and infrastructure improvements. Entrepreneurs like Vanessa Jados and Thanomsri Looknu are opening establishments despite challenges, while public and private investments are transforming the city's landscape. The UN and local government efforts are contributing to a sense of hope and dynamism. Virunga National Park remains a key tourist attraction, further boosting the region's economic prospects.

Jude Law and Akon participated in a concert organized by Peace One Day in Goma, DR Congo, aiming to promote peace. The event drew mixed reactions, with some locals and aid workers criticizing it for not addressing deeper issues like governance and justice. The concert, part of a broader peace initiative, highlighted the complexities and challenges of achieving lasting peace in a region plagued by conflict and exploitation.

Al Jazeera journalist Peter Greste, along with colleagues Mohamed Fahmy and Baher Mohamed, is detained in Egypt, sparking global protests and a social media campaign for their release. The crackdown on press freedom in Egypt is criticized by international bodies and media personalities. The Committee to Protect Journalists highlights the severe repression of journalists in Egypt, comparing it unfavorably to the Mubarak era. Protests in Nairobi, led by journalists and activists, emphasize the importance of press freedom and vow to continue until the journalists are released.

Eastern Congo is facing a severe mental health crisis after two decades of conflict, with widespread PTSD and suicidal ideation among adults. The region's healthcare infrastructure is insufficient, with only one mental health outpatient facility and six mental hospitals for a population of 68 million. Traditional beliefs in witchcraft complicate treatment, and NGOs like the International Rescue Committee focus on sexual violence survivors. The lack of trained staff and medication hampers care provision, and the primary challenge remains security and protection to improve mental health outcomes.

The Masai Mara, a critical wildlife habitat in Kenya, faces severe threats from rampant tourism, corruption, and mismanagement. Despite generating significant revenue, the benefits are not reaching the local Masai population, leading to environmental degradation and social unrest. Conservation efforts are underway, but the future of this iconic ecosystem remains uncertain amid increasing human pressures and political challenges.

Alcoholism is rising in Africa, driven by multinational beverage companies targeting emerging markets with tax breaks and aggressive marketing. Kenya's John Mututho, known for his alcohol-control act, faces mixed reactions. Critics like Bill Sinkele highlight the industry's impact on underage drinking and public health. Governments struggle with policy implementation amid corruption. Companies like Diageo and SABMiller defend their practices, citing safer alternatives to moonshine. The article underscores the challenges of addressing alcoholism in a continent with limited healthcare resources and high youth unemployment.

Captain Muhudun Ahmed Muhamud, a young Somali officer, has played a crucial role in the fight against al-Shabaab, leading a company to liberate Mogadishu's Bakara market. Despite international training efforts, the Somali National Army (SNA) faces significant challenges, including inadequate weaponry and training. The recent lifting of the UN arms embargo shows trust in Somalia's new federal government. Human rights abuses by security forces remain a concern, with calls for better training and respect for human rights. The article highlights the ongoing instability in Somalia, the resilience of its young soldiers, and the complex dynamics of international support and local challenges.

Jeanette Bindu leads a network of women, known as 'Mamas,' in the Democratic Republic of Congo to monitor and support victims of rape amid ongoing conflict. The article highlights the systemic nature of sexual violence in the region, exacerbated by the presence of various armed groups, including government troops and M23 rebels. Despite the withdrawal of international aid groups, Bindu's grassroots network continues to provide critical support, often being the only source of help for many victims. The article underscores the severe impact of rape on women and the challenges they face in seeking treatment and justice. Bindu's efforts, supported by organizations like Hope in Action and Norwegian Aid, focus on both immediate care and long-term rehabilitation, although she acknowledges that true resolution will only come with the end of the conflict.

Kenyan fighter jets are set to conduct air strikes on donkeys used by Islamist terror group al-Shabaab for transporting weaponry. Major Emmanuel Chirchir announced on Twitter that any movement of loaded donkeys would be targeted. This follows Kenya's military engagement in southern Somalia against al-Shabaab, which escalated after the kidnapping of British woman Judith Tebbutt. Kenya's military operations have faced challenges, including accidental bombing of a refugee camp. NGOs report widespread panic as civilians flee to avoid the conflict.