New Generals Promoted in the Military, Gendarmerie

 The President of the Republic, Paul Biya, on Thursday 29 June 2017,signed a number of decrees appointing new generals in the military and Gendarme forces. Eleven colonels were raised to the ranks of brigadier general while six others have been admitted into the second section within the army.. Precisely, they are six colonels of the gendarmerie, four of the army and one of the air force.

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has successfully closed a $750 million note under its Euro Medium Term Note programme.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Afreximbank closed the seven-year Regulation S (Reg S) only notes on 13 June, priced at a spread of 220 bps over mid-swaps (m/s) and a coupon of 4.125 per cent, with Mitsubishi UFJ Securities International plc as the sole coordinator and joint lead manager/book runner. (Reg S are bonds or stocks that may not be offered, sold or delivered within the United States.)
Barclays Bank plc., HSBC Bank plc., Commerzbank and Standard Chartered Bank were joint lead managers and book runners.
This deal tenor represents the longest that Afreximbank has ever achieved in the Eurobond market and will help the Bank to extend the average tenor of its liability book in support of its new five-year strategic plan dubbed Impact 2021.
The order book reached $2.7 billion before being scaled back to $2.2 billion after the initial pricing thoughts were revised from m/s plus 250 basis points (bps), down to m/s plus 220 bps. In the end, 39 per cent of the allocation went to continental Europe, 28 per cent to the United Kingdom, 19 per cent to Asia, and 7 per cent each to the Middle East and Africa and the United States offshore.
Prior to pricing the transaction, Afreximbank met with more than 60 investors during comprehensive roadshows held across Asia, continental Europe and the United Kingdom.
Speaking after the closing, Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President in charge of Finance, Administration and Banking Services, said that the deal would be of great benefit to the Bank’s African borrowers who would enjoy the positive effects of the reduction in the Bank’s cost of funds.
“The level of subscription and diversification of investors, coupled with the highly competitive pricing achieved, is testimony to the continued investor confidence in Afreximbank,” he said. According to him, the strong feedback from the road shows confirm investor confidence in Afreximbank’s credit profile and strategy, notably, their satisfaction with its successful equity capital raising efforts.
He commended the Afreximbank Treasury team for putting together the deal which was executed within a short window and priced lower than all previous 5 year issues.
The achieved spread of 220 bps over m/s for the seven-year issue is 100.5 bps lower than the 2019s, which were priced at m/s plus 320.5 bps, and 80 bps lower than the 2024s, priced at m/s plus 300 bps, both being five-year issues.

www.afreximbank.com

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has successfully closed a $750 million note under its Euro Medium Term Note programme.
Afreximbank closed the seven-year Regulation S (Reg S) only notes on 13 June, priced at a spread of 220 bps over mid-swaps (m/s) and a coupon of 4.125 per cent, with Mitsubishi UFJ Securities International plc as the sole coordinator and joint lead manager/book runner. (Reg S are bonds or stocks that may not be offered, sold or delivered within the United States.)
Barclays Bank plc., HSBC Bank plc., Commerzbank and Standard Chartered Bank were joint lead managers and book runners.
This deal tenor represents the longest that Afreximbank has ever achieved in the Eurobond market and will help the Bank to extend the average tenor of its liability book in support of its new five-year strategic plan dubbed Impact 2021.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The order book reached $2.7 billion before being scaled back to $2.2 billion after the initial pricing thoughts were revised from m/s plus 250 basis points (bps), down to m/s plus 220 bps. In the end, 39 per cent of the allocation went to continental Europe, 28 per cent to the United Kingdom, 19 per cent to Asia, and 7 per cent each to the Middle East and Africa and the United States offshore.
Prior to pricing the transaction, Afreximbank met with more than 60 investors during comprehensive roadshows held across Asia, continental Europe and the United Kingdom.
Speaking after the closing, Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President in charge of Finance, Administration and Banking Services, said that the deal would be of great benefit to the Bank’s African borrowers who would enjoy the positive effects of the reduction in the Bank’s cost of funds.
“The level of subscription and diversification of investors, coupled with the highly competitive pricing achieved, is testimony to the continued investor confidence in Afreximbank,” he said. According to him, the strong feedback from the road shows confirm investor confidence in Afreximbank’s credit profile and strategy, notably, their satisfaction with its successful equity capital raising efforts.
He commended the Afreximbank Treasury team for putting together the deal which was executed within a short window and priced lower than all previous 5 year issues.
The achieved spread of 220 bps over m/s for the seven-year issue is 100.5 bps lower than the 2019s, which were priced at m/s plus 320.5 bps, and 80 bps lower than the 2024s, priced at m/s plus 300 bps, both being five-year issues.

www.afreximbank.com

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has successfully closed a $750 million note under its Euro Medium Term Note programme.
Afreximbank closed the seven-year Regulation S (Reg S) only notes on 13 June, priced at a spread of 220 bps over mid-swaps (m/s) and a coupon of 4.125 per cent, with Mitsubishi UFJ Securities International plc as the sole coordinator and joint lead manager/book runner. (Reg S are bonds or stocks that may not be offered, sold or delivered within the United States.)
Barclays Bank plc., HSBC Bank plc., Commerzbank and Standard Chartered Bank were joint lead managers and book runners.
This deal tenor represents the longest that Afreximbank has ever achieved in the Eurobond market and will help the Bank to extend the average tenor of its liability book in support of its new five-year strategic plan dubbed Impact 2021.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The order book reached $2.7 billion before being scaled back to $2.2 billion after the initial pricing thoughts were revised from m/s plus 250 basis points (bps), down to m/s plus 220 bps. In the end, 39 per cent of the allocation went to continental Europe, 28 per cent to the United Kingdom, 19 per cent to Asia, and 7 per cent each to the Middle East and Africa and the United States offshore.
Prior to pricing the transaction, Afreximbank met with more than 60 investors during comprehensive roadshows held across Asia, continental Europe and the United Kingdom.
Speaking after the closing, Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President in charge of Finance, Administration and Banking Services, said that the deal would be of great benefit to the Bank’s African borrowers who would enjoy the positive effects of the reduction in the Bank’s cost of funds.
“The level of subscription and diversification of investors, coupled with the highly competitive pricing achieved, is testimony to the continued investor confidence in Afreximbank,” he said. According to him, the strong feedback from the road shows confirm investor confidence in Afreximbank’s credit profile and strategy, notably, their satisfaction with its successful equity capital raising efforts.
He commended the Afreximbank Treasury team for putting together the deal which was executed within a short window and priced lower than all previous 5 year issues.
The achieved spread of 220 bps over m/s for the seven-year issue is 100.5 bps lower than the 2019s, which were priced at m/s plus 320.5 bps, and 80 bps lower than the 2024s, priced at m/s plus 300 bps, both being five-year issues.

www.afreximbank.com

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has successfully closed a $750 million note under its Euro Medium Term Note programme.
Afreximbank closed the seven-year Regulation S (Reg S) only notes on 13 June, priced at a spread of 220 bps over mid-swaps (m/s) and a coupon of 4.125 per cent, with Mitsubishi UFJ Securities International plc as the sole coordinator and joint lead manager/book runner. (Reg S are bonds or stocks that may not be offered, sold or delivered within the United States.)
Barclays Bank plc., HSBC Bank plc., Commerzbank and Standard Chartered Bank were joint lead managers and book runners.
This deal tenor represents the longest that Afreximbank has ever achieved in the Eurobond market and will help the Bank to extend the average tenor of its liability book in support of its new five-year strategic plan dubbed Impact 2021.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The order book reached $2.7 billion before being scaled back to $2.2 billion after the initial pricing thoughts were revised from m/s plus 250 basis points (bps), down to m/s plus 220 bps. In the end, 39 per cent of the allocation went to continental Europe, 28 per cent to the United Kingdom, 19 per cent to Asia, and 7 per cent each to the Middle East and Africa and the United States offshore.
Prior to pricing the transaction, Afreximbank met with more than 60 investors during comprehensive roadshows held across Asia, continental Europe and the United Kingdom.
Speaking after the closing, Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President in charge of Finance, Administration and Banking Services, said that the deal would be of great benefit to the Bank’s African borrowers who would enjoy the positive effects of the reduction in the Bank’s cost of funds.
“The level of subscription and diversification of investors, coupled with the highly competitive pricing achieved, is testimony to the continued investor confidence in Afreximbank,” he said. According to him, the strong feedback from the road shows confirm investor confidence in Afreximbank’s credit profile and strategy, notably, their satisfaction with its successful equity capital raising efforts.
He commended the Afreximbank Treasury team for putting together the deal which was executed within a short window and priced lower than all previous 5 year issues.
The achieved spread of 220 bps over m/s for the seven-year issue is 100.5 bps lower than the 2019s, which were priced at m/s plus 320.5 bps, and 80 bps lower than the 2024s, priced at m/s plus 300 bps, both being five-year issues.

www.afreximbank.com

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has successfully closed a $750 million note under its Euro Medium Term Note programme.
Afreximbank closed the seven-year Regulation S (Reg S) only notes on 13 June, priced at a spread of 220 bps over mid-swaps (m/s) and a coupon of 4.125 per cent, with Mitsubishi UFJ Securities International plc as the sole coordinator and joint lead manager/book runner. (Reg S are bonds or stocks that may not be offered, sold or delivered within the United States.)
Barclays Bank plc., HSBC Bank plc., Commerzbank and Standard Chartered Bank were joint lead managers and book runners.
This deal tenor represents the longest that Afreximbank has ever achieved in the Eurobond market and will help the Bank to extend the average tenor of its liability book in support of its new five-year strategic plan dubbed Impact 2021.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The order book reached $2.7 billion before being scaled back to $2.2 billion after the initial pricing thoughts were revised from m/s plus 250 basis points (bps), down to m/s plus 220 bps. In the end, 39 per cent of the allocation went to continental Europe, 28 per cent to the United Kingdom, 19 per cent to Asia, and 7 per cent each to the Middle East and Africa and the United States offshore.
Prior to pricing the transaction, Afreximbank met with more than 60 investors during comprehensive roadshows held across Asia, continental Europe and the United Kingdom.
Speaking after the closing, Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President in charge of Finance, Administration and Banking Services, said that the deal would be of great benefit to the Bank’s African borrowers who would enjoy the positive effects of the reduction in the Bank’s cost of funds.
“The level of subscription and diversification of investors, coupled with the highly competitive pricing achieved, is testimony to the continued investor confidence in Afreximbank,” he said. According to him, the strong feedback from the road shows confirm investor confidence in Afreximbank’s credit profile and strategy, notably, their satisfaction with its successful equity capital raising efforts.
He commended the Afreximbank Treasury team for putting together the deal which was executed within a short window and priced lower than all previous 5 year issues.
The achieved spread of 220 bps over m/s for the seven-year issue is 100.5 bps lower than the 2019s, which were priced at m/s plus 320.5 bps, and 80 bps lower than the 2024s, priced at m/s plus 300 bps, both being five-year issues.

www.afreximbank.com

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Gov't Calls on the Cameroon Diaspora to Invest Back Home

PM Yang

Prime Minister, Philemon Yang has called on Cameroonians living abroad to invest in the country in the bid towards the country’s goal towards emergence. Prime Minister Yang Philemon made the clarion call while presiding at the opening of the First Ever Diaspora forum in Yaounde on Wednesday June 28.
In his opening speech, Philemon Yang said government has put in place incentives and some exoneration tips for passionate Cameroonians willing to invest back home. He presented government's plea for the diaspora to join in the struggle towards achieving the much talked about Vision 2035. Some of the sectors government is asking the diaspora to invest in include amongst others, agriculture and livestock, transformation of agricultural products, education infrastructure as etc

The spokesperson of the Diaspora declared on behalf of others their desire to build the the country and said they are happy to see how Cameroon is progressing on right path and promised their contribution to build the country. This forum which is taking place under the theme, “Cameroon and its Diaspora, seeks to bring together major stakeholders based in the diasporas who are willing to make their own significant contribution for the development of the nation.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Part of Trump's Travel Ban to Go Effective This Week

President Donald Trump's revised travel ban -- which attempts to ban foreign nationals from Sudan, Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia and Yemen -- will take effect Thursday evening. Photo by Erin Schaff/UPI| License Photo

 

 

June 29 (UPI) -- The partial implementation of President Donald Trump's revised travel ban, was to go into effect last Thursday evening, unnamed officials said.

The Supreme Court on Monday announced it would review the Trump administration's appeal against rulings from lower courts that blocked the implementation of his executive order on immigration. In its decision, the high court said the order could partially take effect.

The Department of State will lead the rollout of the measures to begin at 8 p.m. on Thursday, CNN reported.

A Homeland Security official told ABC News the department would work with Customs and Border Protection and Citizenship and Immigration Services to screen travelers coming from the six countries affected by the order.

The timing for the implementation of the travel ban was designed to give U.S. embassies and consulates sufficient guidance before the measures take effect, Bloomberg reported.

The president's revised order seeks to ban travel from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for at least 90 days, and temporarily halt all refugee applications for 120 days. Trump has said that the suspensions allow much-needed time to review the nation's immigration and refugee evaluation procedures to ensure potential terrorists aren't allowed to enter the country

In a 13-page opinion, the Supreme Court narrowed the scope of the ban, saying it was not enforceable against those with a legitimate relationship with someone or some organization in the United States.

The Supreme Court determined if a foreign national from the aforementioned countries cannot sufficiently demonstrate he or she has a "credible claim of bona fide relationship" with either a U.S. institution, such as a school or employer, or a person living in the United States, that foreign national is likely to be banned for 90 days. If he or she is a refugee from one of the countries, the ban lasts for 120 days.

The U.S. Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals in late May upheld a lower court ruling that blocked the implementation Trump's travel ban. Oral arguments in the case will be heard in October before the Supreme Court.

 ***By Andrew V. Pestano
Ed Adamczyk contributed to this report.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Royal Dutch Shell becomes the first oil and gas company to endorse climate-related transparency recommendations outlined by a multilateral task force. Photo by Stephen Shaver/UPI

| License Photo

 

June 29 (UPI) -- The first in the industry, Royal Dutch Shell said it's aligned with a transparency measure on climate steered by former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

"I agree that companies should be clear about how they plan to be resilient in the face of climate change and energy transition," Shell CEO Ben van Beurden said in a statement.

Bloomberg steered efforts through the multilateral Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures, which said the transition to a low-carbon economy could require as much as $1 trillion in net investments per year.

Describing the financial crisis of the last decade as one tied to "weak corporate governance," the task force said accurate and timely disclosure is fundamental to financial risk management when capital allocation is considered.

Bloomberg, who chairs the task force, said transparency could help investors evaluate the risks and the rewards of the transition to a greener economy.

"Climate change presents global markets with risks and opportunities that cannot be ignored, which is why a framework around climate-related disclosures is so important," he said in a statement.

Companies ranging from Bank of America to Dow Chemical Co. have backed up the initiative. Shell so far is the only oil and gas company to endorse the recommendations.

"I applaud the task force for its work to achieve this aim and I have signed a letter confirming Shell's support for the initiative," van Beurden said.

The task force recommendations on risk management are voluntary. Task force leaders said the recommendations are fit for purpose, by the market and for the market.

Shell earlier this month released details on payments made to more than two dozen governments in countries where it does business. The transparency is required by mandates enacted by the British government in 2014.

At the time, Joe Williams, a senior advocacy officer for the Natural Resource Governance Institute in London, told UPI that, from his point of view, Shell was only disclosing what it had to under the terms of British law.

**** By Daniel J. Graeber

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

3,600 People in Serious Trouble for 'Insulting' the President

 At least a total of 3,658 people who allegedly 'insulted' a country's President, have landed themselves in serious trouble as security authorities opened criminal cases against them.

Turkey’s President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan

 

The Turkish authorities opened criminal cases against 3,658 people for allegedly “insulting” President Tayyip Erdogan in 2016, the state-run Anadolu news agency reported on Thursday, citing the Justice Ministry.

Over the course of the year, 46,193 cases were opened against people who are accused of the more general crime of “insulting Turkey, the Turkish nation or Turkish government institutions.” 

Critics of Erdogan say the insult law – long on the books but previously little-used – is being employed as a means to intimidate and punish opponents.

In 2016, a court convicted a former Miss Turkey of insulting Erdogan on social media.

The issue has spilled over to Germany, where Erdogan also filed a case against a satirist Jan Boehmermann, who read a poem containing some obscene language on a television show, which raised freedom of speech issues in the European country.

Erdogan became president in 2014 after serving as prime minister for more than a decade.

 

-NAN

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Confederation cup: Chile Sinks Portugal 3-0 to Qualify for Finals

Claudio Bravo saved all three of Portugal's spot kicks in the penalty shoot-out after a goalless 120 minutes, with Chile set to play Germany or Mexico in the final.

 

 

Claudio Bravo saved three penalties as Chile reached the Confederations Cup final after a 3-0 shootout win over Portugal on Wednesday.

The Chile captain denied Ricardo Quaresma, Joao Moutinho and Nani to send his team into Sunday's final after the game in Kazan ended 0-0 after extra time.

Chile, who scored all three of their spot-kicks taken by Arturo Vidal, Charles Aranguiz and Alexis Sanchez, will face the winner of Germany against Mexico.

Nani missed the decisive penalty as Portugal did not call on Cristiano Ronaldo, who likely was scheduled to take the fifth.

Chile created the better opportunities and were unfortunate not to win the game in extra-time when they struck the woodwork twice in quick succession through Vidal and Martin Rodriguez.

 

 

Both teams made a bright start, with Chile going close after six minutes through Eduardo Vargas. He latched onto a pass from Sanchez but Rui Patricio smothered his effort.

Portugal responded inside a minute when Ronaldo created their best opportunity, teeing up Andre Silva at the back post.

But Bravo reacted smartly for Chile to deny the new AC Milan signing.

The only other opportunity before the interval fell to Aranguiz but the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder snatched at his far-post volley.

Both sides lacked ambition after the break but Chile continued to force the clearer chances. Vidal nodded over from Jean Beausejour's cross and Patricio saved sharply from Vargas' opportunistic volley.

Portugal looked sluggish in attack with captain Ronaldo their biggest threat. He tested Bravo with a firm strike on the hour mark and saw a deflected effort drop two yards wide but ultimately the two teams settled for extra-time.

Chile pushed hard for a winner as Sanchez squandered a free header in the first period, while they were denied a penalty when Jose Fonte tripped substitute Francisco Silva in the box.

 

When Vidal then Rodriguez struck crossbar and post in quick succession in the final minute of extra time it looked set for Portugal to triumph on penalties.

But Bravo stepped up to deny three Portugal substitutes in the shoot-out, sending Chile into Sunday's showpiece in St Petersburg.

 

Man of the match - Arturo Vidal

 

The Chile midfielder was all action throughout and came so close to snatching a winner for his country in the final minute of extra-time.

His penalty - Chile's first in the shoot-out - also helped set the tone before Bravo's heroics.

 

What next?

 

Chile will face the winner of Germany v Mexico in Sunday's final, while Portugal will take on the loser in the third-placed play-off earlier on the same day.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Dre Two Escaped Chibok Schoolgirls Meet President Trump and Wife at the White House (Photos)

 Two of the Chibok schoolgirls who were able to escape from Boko Haram in 2014, have met with the US President, Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday.

The escaped chibok girls on their high school graduation in USA

 

Two of the nearly 300 Chibok schoolgirls kidnapped by deadly Islamic terrorist sect, Boko Haram and are among the 57 girls who were able to escape from the terrorist group, have met the President of United States of America, Donald Trump, and first lady, Ivanka Trump.

 

20-year-old Joy Bishara, and 19-year-old Lydia Pogu, who were among several other girls who escaped and moved to the United States to complete their school, met with the American President at the White House in Washington on Wednesday, June 28. 

 

 

With the help of a Christian non-profit, others, they were able to attend boarding school in Virginia. Bishara and Pogu transferred their senior year and recently graduated from Canyonville Christian Academy. 

 

They will be attending Southeastern University in Florida in the fall.

 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Over 400 Nigerian Refugees Fleeing Ethnic Confrontation “Flood” Nwa

Donga Mantung SDO flanked by his entourage and some young refugees
Photo credit: Gonga Timothy

 Over 400 Nigerian refugees (Fulani graziers) have flooded into Nwa Sub Division in Donga Mantung Division of the North West region following ethnic clash between the Mambilas and the Fulani gaziers. The Senior Divisional Officer for Donga Mantung Division , Ngone Ndodemesape Bernard visited the localities of Yang, Nsam, Ntim to assess himself the living condition of the refugees. Reports say the refugees are mostly women and children below the ages of 5. It said that over 300 of them have taken shelter in one of the primary schools while others have in the Ardoret. Their living conditions according to what we gathered are precarious given that they lack the basic necessity food and other non-food items like medication, blankets, shelter materials etc. The most pathetic thing is that some of them who sustained injuries during the clashes with the Mambilas have been transferred to Kumbo for treatment. Allegedly, one dead has been recorded. However, the Mbororo Socio-Cultural and Development Association- MBOSCUDA and the mayor of Nwa Dr. Ngomfe Loma David have extended a hand of fellowship by providing some support to the refugees. It should be recalled that massive influx of refugees in bordering villages of Nwa reached its apex on June 23. It is alleged the confrontation recorded loss of lives, slaughtering of thousands of cows and burning down of homes belonging mainly to the Fulani. Reports say the crisis was as a result of the conflict between farmer and graziers.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Even the Rich Have Problems: Dangote Reveals What Gives Him Sleepless Nights

Multi-billionaire businessman and the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has revealed what is making him lose sleep as he talks on the latest quit notice given to the Igbos in the North.

Aliko Dangote

 

While speaking on the sideline of a meeting with business leaders/chief executive officers from Nigeria and Kenya held at the Dangote Lekki free-trade zone at the weekend in Lagos, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, revealed that the success or failure of any of his businesses does not bother him or make him lose sleep like the rate of unemployed Nigerian youths.

According to a report by ThisDay, President of the Dangote Group, stated that unemployment gives him sleepless nights, as he posited that it’s the collective responsibility of both the government and entrepreneurs to create jobs for the teeming Nigerian youths as a way of solving the restiveness and agitations that the nation is experiencing from different geo-political zones.

The richest man in Africa, harped on diversification as the major solution to the unemployment challenges the nation is facing, submitting sadly though, that successive governments had always paid lip service to job creation and diversification.

He said: “Since 1978, when I came to Lagos, government has been talking about diversification of the economy which has not happened up till now. It is also sad that nobody is challenging anybody about how many jobs he or she has created.

“In reality though, it is not solely government duty to provide jobs. It is also the duty of entrepreneurs, but government at all levels must provide the enabling environment. When there is no jobs, people get frustrated, and I can tell you that the Boko Haram insurgency is a product of frustration. The way to go is diversification. Nigeria should diversify its economy, and take crude oil as icing on the cake.”

Dangote appealed to young entrepreneurs especially from the Lagos Business School (LBS) who were part of his audience to brace up for the challenge and do something differently. He described Nigeria as a scratched card that has not been touched, and would be useless after loading it. 

“Nigeria is like a recharge card. Anywhere you touch is money. You should also have visions and be focused,” he added.

On the quit notice order given to Igbo people in the North by a coalition of northern youths, Dangote said it is a topic not worth discussing, and however, urged the people to stop talking about it. 

According to him, “Unknown people are talking about Igbo leaving the North, and we are joining them to talk about it. Why are we talking about it? It shouldn’t be discussed at all. Those saying it are just seeking relevance.”

Dangote added that his company is determined to transform and diversify the Nigerian economy.

“When we rolled these projects out, there was nothing like devaluation but now, we have to double our efforts and it is not a problem because Dangote group is a leader in the new breed of African multi-national conglomerates, and that is why its rated top 10 in Africa and top 400 globally.

“We are globally competitive, yet growing local capacity and manufacturing quality products. Dangote is rapidly transforming from a Nigerian company to a dominant African brand,” the Dangote Group president noted.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Ten Popular Lies We Tell Our Partner

Well, many of us take pride in saying we don't lie. However, psychologists say you lie when you tell your partner the following...

File photo

 

1. I am listening — when you are actually busy browsing a social media page.

 

2.  I’m not in a bad mood — when your body language and facial expression say otherwise.

 

3.  I only had one drink — even when your speech is slurred and you can hardly maintain your balance.

 

4. I didn’t see your text/call — when you have only deleted your call log and emptied your message box just in case you want to prove him/her wrong.

 

5.  You don’t look fat — when s/he can hardly fit into his/her regular size again.

 

6.  I am sticking to my diet — after you have just walloped a plate of junk food.

 

7.  I did orgasm — when you know quite well that you faked it.

 

8.  This isn’t a new outfit — when you have not even finished the payment for that new outfit.

 

9.  Your bum doesn’t look big in that — even when the cloth is almost bursting in the middle because of the unwieldy backside.

 

10.  I wasn’t looking at her figure — even when you have just whistled in your mind, thinking, ‘Wow! What a knockout!’

 

-Punch

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

T.B Joshua's N10m Largesse Tearing Human Rights Committee Apart

The Committee for Defence of Human Rights has been engulfed by crisis as revelation of TB Joshua's donation of N10million emerges.

 

The ongoing crisis rocking one of Nigeria’s foremost civil society organisations, the Committee for Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, took a new turn, Vanguard reports.

This is after the Lagos State chapter of the association disclosed that N10 million was allegedly donated to the association by founder of The Synagogue Church Of All Nations, Pastor T.B Joshua.

The State chapter added that the fund was allegedly donated by the cleric to CDHR through its President, Malachy Ugwumadu, and one Ade Ikuesan, to mobilize members to court whenever case on his collapsed six-storey building that allegedly led to death of over 100 Nigerians and foreigners at Lagos State Corona Court is scheduled to hold.

Meanwhile, Ugwumadu had debunked the allegations, claiming that the Lagos chapter of the association was peddling false claim.

Speaking on behalf of the members, Chairman of Lagos chapter, Alex Omotehinse, in an interview with Vanguard yesterday, said that aside the fund, the cleric also allegedly donated 500 bags of rice, two generators and promised yearly donations of millions of naira to the association.

He said: “President,  Malachy Ugwumadu and Ade Ikuesan wanted us to mobilise in favour and support of Prophet T.B. Joshua as a result of the donation of the sum of N10 million, 500 bags of rice, two bigger generators and yearly donations of millions of Naira.

“This is the centre point of current tension, persecution and inciting of members against themselves by the President simply because we refuse to mobilise over 100 members of our branch with placards in support of Prophet T. B. Joshua on his case at the Lagos State Corona Court as instructed by the President and one Ade Ikuesan,” he added

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

All You Need to Know about Prof Uphie Melo Chinje, Rector of Ngoundere University

By Fai Cassian Ndi
 Prof. Uphie Melo Chinje is the new Rector of the University of Ngoundere. Before her appointment two days ago to that prestigious position, she was the General Manager of the Local Material Authority-MIPROMALO.

Prof. Uphie Melo Chinje

While at MIPROMALO, Prof. Uphie Melo Chinje was a frontline researcher, like other result oriented researchers, he job was to transform laboratory work into tangible practical work.

She was tasked with moving research results from the laboratory into the field of production. In the past, accusations have been more compounded by the fact that research results never go beyond the laboratory. Reasons being that majority of the research results never tie with local realities because most of the researchers prefer to think globally and act globally. Welcome Prof. Uphie Melo Chinje who is a mark departure from the madding crowd because she thinks globally and act locally. As a woman she has shown proof of being a systematically thought out of the box. As a researcher and a woman for that matter, she has always been worried why there are practical problems to be solved in society and researchers spend time in abstract things. She is one of those rare researchers who believe in the value of work. Far from being an academic exercise, she is of the school of thought of Beacon who saw research and the acquisition of knowledge as planned work. Knowing that everything in the world is purchased by labour, Prof. Uphie Melo Chinje put herself to education and learning that would make her useful in the field of work. And being a God fearing person, her inspiration has often come from Genesis 1:28 which states that: “replenish and subdue it”.  It is therefore a noble sentiment that she has not only replenished the earth but has been subduing it.

As General Manager of the Local Material Production Authority-MIPROMALO, she has been redefining the use of the earth especially it soil. Through her meritorious research work, she demonstrated that local materials are more resistant and she succeeded in putting local construction materials at the front stage in Cameron. That is how she is transforming President Biya’s greater ambition program.

While others in her position will certainly wear arrogance and snobbishness, she remains down to earth and accommodating. Back in Ngoketunjia where she hails, Prof. Uphie Melo initiated and established the Creative Women Center, which is a model in empowering the rural woman. Yet Prof. Melo still goes beyond that to make work the divine with humanity as she believes God makes Himself in all the things. Her successes in development work, research and empowerment is what has earned her this recent appointment by President Paul Biya. She is expected to transform the Ngoundere university into a citadel if standards.

***First published in March 2014 by the same author 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Cameroon Gets $ 666 Million IMF Loan to Support Economic, financial reforms

 The International Monetary Fund’s executive board has approved a $666 million, three-year extended credit facility for Cameroon to support economic and financial reforms, an IMF statement said. According to Reuters report, the fluctuation in the prices of oil has resulted to government's inability to raise enough revenue. This reports say has obliged to concentrate resources on combating the threat of Islamist Boko Haram militants along its northwestern border with Nigeria.

“Having initially shown resilience owing to its greater diversification, the Cameroonian economy is now facing decelerating growth, declining fiscal and external buffers, and rapidly-rising public debt,” IMF Deputy Managing director Mitsuhiro Furusawa said in the statement.

The board’s decision allows for the immediate disbursement of $171 million as part of a programme aimed at restoring fiscal and external sustainability and unlocking private sector-driven growth.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

A Great Man: Tribute to Ache Franklin Aka L'Enfant Noir

RIP Ache Franklin

A Shakespearean tragedy as so far considered may be called a story of exceptional calamity leading to the death of a man in high estate. But it is clearly much more than this, and we have now to regard it from another side.

Heaven has again loosened on humanity. The news of the demise of Ache Franklin aka L’Enfant Noir Du Cameroun came as a shock to many including this writer. Though grieved by the sad news, it should be noted Ache Franklin will remain and continue to be remembered for his creativity. As Geology teacher at GBHS Nkambe, he left an indelible mark of greatness. As a musician, he leaves behind the legendary lyrics in Limbum that it may take centuries for someone to topple. And as former Manager of Savannah Frontier Radio, Nkambe, his management skills will forever be remembered as he produced some of the best jingles. The inventor of "molo molo dance" as he was fondly called has left his friends, students and colleagues in a confused state yet that life is nothing. He etched his name on the pillars of history and his actions will continue to echo across the century.

 A Voice, a Man is Gone, a talent and in fact an Iconic teaching teacher who will be missed. Ache’s demise is a big lost to the North West and Cameroon for he was such a great man that words alone can’t describe. To sum it all, he was enthusiastic and hard-working...RIP L’Enfant Noir

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

What You Need to Know About Prof. Ngomo Horace Manga, New UB VC

 The Newly appointed Vice Chancellor of the University of Buea, Prof Ngomo Horace Manga hails from Ndian Division in the South West Region. Before his appoint to man the University of Buea, he served as Secretary General in the Ministry of Higher Education. He is an associate Professor of Applied Chemical Engineering. He obtained his PHD from the University of Lagos in 1990. He replaces Prof. Nalova Lyonga who goes on retirement. 

 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Mighty Storm Sweeps UB Vice Chancellor, Pro Chancellor

Prof. Nalova Lyonga

Prof. Nalova Lyonga, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Buea has been replaced. This is following a Presidential decree signed today June 27, 2017 by President Paul Biya. She has been replaced by Prof. Ngomo Horace Manga while Ako Edward Oben who was formerly Rector of the University of Maroua is new Pro Chancellor. 

Nalova Lyonga, who was Associate Professor was installed on Wednesday July 4 20112 at 3p.m as the 4^th vice chancellor of the University of Buea, UB. She became the second female and second South West elite to man the affairs of UB. Her appointment by President Paul Biya on Thursday June 28, 2012 downplayed all speculations by bookmakers given that she replaced Vincent P.K Titanji, following varied lobby faces.

Sources say Prof. Uphie Melo Chinje was also appointed to man the University of Ngoundere.

UP NEXT: How Prof. Nalova Lyonga will be remembered

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

artificial reef can protect ocean biodiversity from climate change-Scientist

Researchers are installing small plastic structures meant to mimic natural coralline algae off the coast of Italy. Photo courtesy University of Portsmouth 

 

June 27 (UPI) -- Researchers from the University of Portsmouth in Great Britain hope an artificial coral reef can protect species from the ill effects of global warming, including rising ocean temperatures and ocean acidification.

Coral reefs anchor the food chains and ecosystems that support much of the ocean's biodiversity. But the health of many reefs continue to decline as ocean waters become more acidic and temperatures rise.

Scientists in Portsmouth are working on an artificial reef model with hopes of creating suitable underwater refuges for vulnerable species.

Researchers have created small plastic structures mimicking natural coralline algae, a type of red algae with calcareous deposits. Coralline algae are the main builders of reefs in the Mediterranean Sea. They also especially vulnerable to ocean acidification, as their calcium carbonate skeleton easily dissolves in low pH conditions.

Researchers plan to build large-scale artificial coral reefs near existing reefs and see if the structures can harbor vulnerable species. Scientists are also keen to find out if the artificial reefs can serve as scaffolding for coralline algae.

"In a small and confined seas like the Mediterranean, these potential 'buffers' are among the dominant organisms," Federica Ragazzola, a marine biologist at Portsmouth, said in a news release. "Coralline algae belong to these groups of organism that may play an important role in buffering the pH decrease thus creating a micro-environment that may help some species to resist future climate changes."

With help from researchers in Italy, the Portsmouth team began installing the first synthetic corals this month in the Gulf of La Spezia, off the northwest coast of Italy.

"Our research will allow us to clarify the function of the coralline algae reef as a buffer for diversity, abundance, reproductive, ecological and structural characteristics of the associated fauna," said Chiara Lombardi, from the Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development. "As a consequence, our results will be important for the planning of future protection and management strategies involving coralline algae bioconstructions."

 ******* By Brooks Hays

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Corruption charges filed against Brazilian President Temer

June 27 (UPI) -- Brazil's Public Ministry said the attorney general has charged President Michel Temer with corruption after an investigation revealed hefty bribe payments.

Attorney General Rodrigo Janot on Monday filed a complaint to the Supreme Federal Court in which he accused Temer and his federal deputy Rodrigo Rocha Loures of passive corruption for receiving about $150,000 in bribes from Joesley Batista, a food company business leader.

Janot seeks damages of about $3 million from Temer and about $600,000 from Rocha Loures, as well as their dismissal from public service. Janot said bribe payments Temer and Rocha Loures received within a nine-month period could reach up to $11 million.

"The denunciation was based on criminal investigation that proved the materiality and the authorship of the crime of passive corruption," the Public Ministry said in a statement. "In addition to the conviction for passive corruption, the attorney general seeks compensation for the transindividual damages caused ... since the damages resulting from corruption are diffused, difficult to quantify. He also calls for the loss of civil service for the holders of public office -- public employment or elective office -- for having violated their duties towards the state and society."

A Supreme Federal Court justice must decide if Brazil's lower house of parliament, the Chamber of Deputies, can vote on whether Temer should be tried.

The case against Temer initiated in May after a Brazilian newspaper reported it obtained recordings of a conversation between Temer and Batista, who secretly recorded the discussion. Temer purportedly endorsed the executive's hush money payments to silence jailed politician Eduardo Cuhna as a potential witness in a corruption investigation.

In the recording, Batista said he was paying Cuhna money to keep silent and Temer said he would have to keep up those payments, the recording purportedly shows. Batista recorded the conversation as part of a plea bargain with prosecutors related to the massive Petrobras corruption scandal.

Temer, who has repeatedly denied wrongdoing, replaced former President Dilma Rousseff in August 2016 when the Federal Senate voted to remove her from office over accusations she broke budget laws.

In November, she accused Temer of taking a $295,000 bribe she was initially accused of taking. Her lawyers said documents showed the bribe was transferred directly into the general campaign finance fund of the Brazilian Democratic Movement Party, to which Temer belongs.

 ****By Andrew V. Pestano

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Cameroonian Guys are Not Romantic-Daphne

Daphne

One of Cameroon’s rising female singer, Daphne is quoted to have said that Cameroonian guys are not romantic.

  Daphne who is celebrated for her famous soundtrack "Calee" is said to have told Team237mag in an exclusive interview that: “Well from my encounter, I know Cameroonian guys are really smart and cute in their own way but the bad thing I hate about Cameroonian guys is that they are very unromantic".

Impressionists are of the opinion that this decade has recorded the emergence of a huge number of young musicians that distinguished themselves by their aspirations to address pertinent issues and with a new social and philosophical tone, yet semantically undefined. Apparently, this new music "rids" or "emancipates" itself from the statements they make in public. 

The question which many have been asking is whether what musicians say is the only the function of text in music or in a broader sense also the capabilities of language, and, ultimately, the whole "logocentric" philosophical tradition of a generation.

 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Church Bars Blacks from Attending Its Service in South Africa

A church in South Africa has been described as demonic and discriminatory for refusing to allow blacks attend its service.

 

A South Africa’s Church has barred blacks from attending service as the church on Sunday disallowed two black journalists from entering.

The Afrikaanse Protestante Kerk church in Orania, told the journalists “the church is only for whites”.

Orania is an Afrikaans-only South African town located along the banks of the Orange River, in the arid Karoo region of the Northern Cape Province.

The journalists were on an assignment and decided to attend a Sunday service before returning to Pretoria but they were intercepted by a church leader, identified as Mr Theunis Oukamp, at the door.

According to Africa Review, Oukamp said allowing black people into an all-white church would be violating the “rights of Afrikaans people”.

“I am now in a difficult situation. You know that Orania is only for white people, this is why we are here.

“You must understand I know you want to serve God and everything but I have to protect the rights of Afrikaans people. So I cannot let you in, you guys can go to any other church, but this one is only for white people,” Mr Oukamp told the journalists.

Mr Langton Ndlovu, a Christian, described the move as ‘diabolical’.

“This is demonic, in this day and age, I never thought this was real. That’s unacceptable. I wonder how they read the scripture that says “there is neither Greek nor Jew” but we’re one in Christ,” said Mr Ndlovu.

The president of the South Africa Union Council of Independent Churches, Archbishop Modiri Patrick Shole, expressed shock that there was still segregation in the body of Christ, 23 years after apartheid ended.

“We don’t discriminate in church because before God we are one – whether white or black. I find it weird that we still have discrimination in the church,” he said.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Tanzanian President Bans Pregnant Teenage Girls from School

Pregnant teenagers in Tanzania have been banned from partaking in formal education following a proclamation by the government.

 

President John Magufuli

 

The president of Tanzania, John Magufuli has banned pregnant teenage girls from returning to school, either they eventually become mothers or not. 

Magufuli disclosed this while addressing residents of Chalinze, Bagamoyo District in Dar es Salaam during his three-day-tour of Coast Region on Thursday. 

According to him, the government funds set aside for education are meant for serious students, and not for pregnant girls. 

He noted that the young mothers would be unable to focus while in class, adding that allowing them in class would encourage other girls to engage in s*x. 

"After calculating some few mathematics she’d be asking the teacher in the classroom ‘let me go out and breastfeed my crying baby", BBC quoted the president as saying.

He said only girls at the university level are allowed to get pregnant without any penalties attached.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Why I Still Iron My Wife's Clothes - Pastor Adeboye Reveals

 The highly revered leader of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has opened the lid on how he relates with his wife.

Pastor Enoch Adeboye

 

Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has advised men to be humble in their marriage.

Mr. Adeboye said, despite his status, he still finds himself ironing his wife’s clothes whenever he’s allowed.

“I still iron/press my wife’s clothes when I’m allowed to,” the preacher said in a Facebook post Friday. “If you are a true leader, you must be always ready to serve, even when no one can see you.”

Mr. Adeboye’s advice could mean a lot in Nigeria, which is still ingrained in a patriarchal culture, despite women constituting a majority of her estimated 180 million people.

The pastor’s marital and pre-marital counselling has featured in his messages for decades.

But some of his teachings can be too radical or conservative to swallow, in an era of social media in which many are easily offended.

At the church’s annual congress last August, Mr. Adeboye drew social media backlash when he suggested that only women who can cook qualified for marriage.

“Don’t marry a girl who is lazy! Don’t marry a girl who cannot cook, she needs to know how to do chores and cook because you cannot afford to be eating out all the time.

“Don’t marry a girl who is worldly! If you do, you have carried what you’ll worship for the rest of your life!” Mr. Adeboye said.

Despite the criticism, the pastor stated a few days later that he meant what he said.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

World's Ugliest Dog Contest: See Who Won the $1,500 Prize

Martha, with owner Shirley Zindler, beat 13 other contenders to be presented with a trophy and a $1,500 (1,200 pounds) prize as its crowned the world ugliest dog.

 

Martha, a Neapolitan mastiff, has been named this year's World's Ugliest Dog.

The annual competition, now in its 29th year, was held in Petaluma, California. Martha, with owner Shirley Zindler, beat 13 other contenders to be presented with a trophy and a $1,500 (£1,200) prize.

The big-jowled crowd-pleaser will now be flown to New York for "media appearances", according to the organisers.

The Sonoma-Marin Fair, where the event takes place, says the event typically includes lots of dogs that have been rescued from shelters and puppy mills.

Martha is former rescue dog who went nearly blind from neglect, said Ms Zindler.

After various operations, she can now see again and is pain-free. The Associated Press news agency said Martha immediately won over the judges by obliviously sprawling across the stage, with no intention of doing any tricks.

The panel based their decisions on first impressions, unusual attributes, personality and audience reaction, the agency added.

"The contest has done much to raise awareness for adoption of dogs, and that no matter their physical detractions, these animals are loving companions," says the fair's website.

"And the dogs certainly seem to enjoy the adoration of the fans."

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Billionaires Club: Dangote Celebrates Sallah with Fellow Billionaires on his Luxury Yacht

Africa's richest man Dangote has taken time to cool off from the stress of life as he celebrated Sallah with his friends on his luxury yacht.

The billionaires club: Dangote and his friends celebrating Sallah

 

The richest man in Africa worth billions of dollars and the founder of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has celebrated Sallah in a special way.

The billionaire had fun time with his fellow billionaires - Femi Otedola, Sam Njoku, Niyi Adebaye, Segun Awolowo and Tunde Ayeni - on board his luxury yacht where they merried and enjoyed the best of foods.

 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Supreme Court to Review Travel Ban, Allows Partial Implementation

 

People protest against President Donald Trump's travel ban outside the U.S. Customs and Border Protection office in Washington on March 7. File Photo by Erin Schaff/UPI

| License Photo

 

June 26 (UPI) -- The U.S. Supreme Court announced Monday it will review the case involving the Trump administration's temporary travel ban on people coming from six predominantly Muslim countries.

The announcement came on the final day of the court's term before the summer break. Oral arguments in the case will be heard in October.

The court allowed the administration to implement part of the ban and said it would review the lower court rulings.

In a 13-page opinion, the court narrowed the scope of the ban, saying it was not enforceable against those with a legitimate relationship with someone of some organization in the United States. Travelers could see the allowed restrictions within three days. President Donald Trump directed administration officials to implement his executive order within 72 hours after the court gives its approval.

Trump issued a statement saying he viewed the Supreme Court decision as a victory.

"My number one responsibility as commander in chief is to keep the American people safe," he said. "Today's ruling allows me to use an important tool for protecting our Nation's homeland. I am also particularly gratified that the Supreme Court's decision was 9-0."

A revised executive order issued in March by Trump limited travel from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for 90 days. It also suspended U.S. refugee programs for 120 days. Two federal appeals courts have since rejected portions of the order.

The U.S. Court of Appeals in Richmond, Va., ruled in May that the travel ban violated the First Amendment's ban on government establishment of religion. It relied on Trump's campaign statements calling for a "Muslim ban."

On June 12, the U.S. Court of Appeals in San Francisco blocked, for the second time in four months, portions of the order pertaining to the limits on travel and the suspension of the refugee program. It ruled that Trump exceeded authority granted him by the U.S. Congress and said, "The order does not offer a sufficient justification to suspend the entry of more than 180 million people on the basis of nationality."

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Families in Low-income countries Lack Soap at Home- Research Reprot

"Hand washing prevents leading causes of the 6 million deaths that occur annually in young children around the world... These data are useful to public health programs and policy makers because they underscore the deep inequities that persist globally," said Dr. Pavani Ram, a researcher at the University at Buffalo.

A new study by the University at Buffalo shows access to soap and water for hand washing in homes varies greatly based on income levels. Researchers say improved hand washing habits could prevent millions of children from contracting disease. Photo by Wollertz/Shutterstock

 

June 26 (UPI) -- Researchers at the University at Buffalo report that hand washing behavior, and access to soap and water in the home, is lacking in low-income countries.

The study, published in the June edition of the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, was conducted by researchers at the University at Buffalo, USAID, UNICEF and other organizations, analyzed data from 51 surveys, revealing the percentage of households around the world where soap and water for hand washing was present varied greatly depending on income level.

"Hand washing prevents leading causes of the 6 million deaths that occur annually in young children around the world. Never before has handwashing been systematically measured in so many countries," Dr. Pavani Ram, an associate professor of epidemiology and environmental health and director of the Community for Global Health Equity at UB, said in a press release. "These data are useful to public health programs and policy makers because they underscore the deep inequities that persist globally and within countries, contributing to these preventable child deaths among people living in poverty and in rural areas in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia."

Researchers found the likelihood of having access to soap and water in a dwelling ranged from 21 percent in Senegal to 99.1 percent in Iraq and Serbia. Ethiopia had the lowest availability of soap in dwellings at just 0.1 percent. Swaziland had the highest rate in Africa at 34.7 percent.

The availability of soap and water was less in poorer households than in middle to higher-income households in all areas.

Soap and water availability was higher in the Eastern Mediterranean region compared to Africa with 42.6 percent in Afghanistan to 91.5 percent in Iraq.

Nearly 79 percent of households in Bhutan had access to soap and water for handwashing compared to 21.4 percent in Bangladesh.

"This analysis demonstrates the need to promote access to handwashing materials and placement at handwashing locations in the dwelling, particularly in poorer, rural areas where children are more vulnerable to hand washing-preventable syndromes such as pneumonia and diarrhea," the researchers stated

***Amy Wallace 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

FIFA Mafia, Video Referee and the Lions Vs Die Mannschaft Red Cards Saga

Those who took the pains to watch the last group match between Germany and Cameroon ended more confused over the role of the video referee in a football encounter. Expressionists say the video referee stepped out of bound because his rule is to validate goals, offside and not fault plays in the field. Though Germany won their Confederations Cup group and has booked a date with Mexico in the semifinals, they didn’t do so with the complicity of the video referee. Cameroon was still very much in contention to play spoiler in Sunday’s match until a Video Assistant Referee review saw Ernest Mabouka sent off. Mabouka’s red card came as a result of a challenge where both him and Emre were fighting for an air ball, with all their boots up high in an attempt to control the ball. Since Can was more faster, Ernest's stud caught him on the knee but it was not so serious. It was clearly an accident and not a particularly dangerous play, but the video referee stepped in with their mafia. This incident resulted to the referee dishing out two red cards. After viewing the video of what happened, the referee hurriedly showed the red card to a wrong player. He later nullified it. Though the Die Mannschaft won 3-1, it was not by merit.

The first half was mostly uneventful, with Germany controlling possession and creating very little with it. Joshua Kimmich had the best chance of the half, missing a point-blank header in the 24th minute. Marc-Andre ter Stegen had to make a big save in the 45th minute to keep the score level, tipping a shot by Andre Zambo Anguissa over the bar.

But Germany started quickly in the second half, and had the lead by the 48th minute. Kerem Demirbay was the scorer, tallying his first career goal for his country. He both started the move and finished it, surging forward from midfield and playing a one-two with Julian Draxler. Demirbay collected Draxler’s backheel pass 30 yards from goal, took a long stride forward, then smashed the ball into the back of the net from the edge of the box.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Study: Smartphone Use May Bring on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

A small study suggests the constant tapping and typing people do on their smartphones may increase risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Photo by Skylines/Shutterstock 

 

FRIDAY, June 23, 2017 -- People who spend lots of time on their smartphones may be scrolling, tapping and swiping their way to carpal tunnel syndrome, a painful wrist and hand disorder.

A small study found a link between extended use of smartphones and other hand-held electronic devices and a greater likelihood for experiencing the telltale wrist and hand pain of the syndrome.

But the researchers did not prove that heavy smartphone use caused carpal tunnel syndrome, and one hand surgeon said very few people in the real world use their smartphones as much as the heavy users in the study did.

Study author Peter White said the findings suggest "caution may be warranted when using hand-held electronic devices, in order to minimize the chance of developing carpal tunnel syndrome."

White is an assistant professor in the department of health technology and informatics at Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow and hard pathway of bone and ligament found at the base of the hand, according to the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. It contains tendons, which enable finger-bending, as well as the so-called "median nerve," which runs from the forearm to the palm and provides feeling to some fingers.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can gradually develop following repeated pressure to the point where the median nerve passes into the hand and meets the wrist.

A common cause, said White, are work conditions that call for "repetitive, forceful or awkward hand movements, for example, when typing." And the result is often pain, which sometimes extends up the arm, as well as numbness, finger tingling and weakened grip strength.

To explore whether smartphone use might up the carpal tunnel syndrome risk, White and his associates followed up on their prior investigation involving 500 Hong Kong University students.

Those students fell into two camps: intensive users of hand-held electronic devices, meaning five or more hours of use per day, and non-intensive users, or less than five hours per day. Hand-held devices included mobile phones, tablet computers and game consoles.

More than half, 54 percent, of the intensive group reported musculoskeletal pain and/or discomfort, compared with 12 percent among the less intensive group.

The new study looked at 48 students from the first study. Half were intensive users who spent on average more than nine hours a day using their devices. Those in the other group spent just under three hours a day on their devices.

The participants answered questionnaires on electronic device habits and any pain or discomfort in their neck, shoulder, back, elbow or wrist/hand region.

Ultrasounds and physical exams on the wrist region were also done.

Muscle pain was found to be more common among intensive users.

The researchers also found that intensive electronics users had "significantly" more discomfort, and more severe discomfort, in their wrist and hand.

The more time a person spent using a hand-held electronic device, the more intense and long-lasting their wrist and hand pain was.

To explain why, the researchers pointed to device design, which requires the repeated use of fingers to click, swipe, scroll, tap and press. The result is an enlargement and flattening of the median nerve, alongside bulging of a key ligament.

To minimize risk, White advises keeping the wrist as straight as possible when using devices.

He added, "One should try to minimize repetitive movements of one's fingers and thumb when using hand-held electronic devices, especially for single-hand use. It is also important to take regular rest periods, so as to avoid continuous intensive use, so as to allow recovery time and to prevent prolonged stress."

But hand surgeon Dr. Dori Cage questioned how much of a risk smartphone use really poses.

"The strong correlation of carpal tunnel syndrome with smartphone use is surprising, as I have not seen that in my practice," said Cage, an American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons spokesperson.

Cage, who's with San Diego Hand Specialists, also suggested that "it is unlikely that the general population would have [the] degree of phone use" seen among the intensive users in the study.

"This is likely an issue affecting only a small percentage of cellphone users," she said.

*The study was published June 21 in the journal Muscle and Nerve.




When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Breastmilk is the Gold Standard: It Does What Vaccine will Never Do

To claim that breastmilk is the gold standard in infant nutrition is an understatement. For a newborn, nothing comes close in nutrient density which is so perfectly customized for an infant as it grows. Breast-fed infants gain incredible protection from antibodies, proteins and immune cells in breastmilk. It defends against a myriad of pathogens in ways that are impossible through vaccination and other pharmaceuticals.

The molecules in breastmilk cells help to prevent microorganisms from penetrating the body’s tissues. Some of the molecules bind to microbes in the hollow space (lumen) of the gastrointestinal tract. In this way, they block microbes from attaching to and crossing through the mucosa-the layer of cells, also known as the epithelium, that lines the digestive tract and other body cavities. Other molecules lessen the supply of particular minerals and vitamins that harmful bacteria need to survive in the digestive tract. Certain immune cells in human milk are phagocytes that attack microbes directly. Another set produces chemicals that invigorate the infant’s own immune response.

Breastmilk Antibodies

Naturally-occurring sugars found in breastmilk provide protection against life threatening bacterium by acting as a food source for ‘friendly bacteria’ in a baby’s intestine.

Researchers have identified a specific sugar — lacto-n-difucohexaose I — in breastmilk that proved better at killing the bacterium Streptococcus agalacticae than breastmilk without this sugar.

Antibodies, which are also called immunoglobulins, take five basic forms, denoted as IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD and IgE. All have been found in human milk, but by far the most abundant type is IgA, specifically the form known as secretory IgA, which is found in great amounts throughout the gut and respiratory system of adults. These antibodies consist of two joined IgA molecules and a so-called secretory component that seems to shield the antibody molecules from being degraded by the gastric acid and digestive enzymes in the stomach and intestines. Infants who are bottle-fed have few means for battling ingested pathogens until they begin making secretory IgA on their own, often several weeks or even months after birth.

The secretory IgA molecules passed to the suckling child are helpful in ways that go beyond their ability to bind to microorganisms and keep them away from the body’s tissues. First, the collection of antibodies transmitted to an infant is highly targeted against pathogens in that child’s immediate surroundings. The mother synthesizes antibodies when she ingests, inhales or otherwise comes in contact with a disease-causing agent. Each antibody she makes is specific to that agent; that is, it binds to a single protein, or antigen, on the agent and will not waste time attacking irrelevant substances. Because the mother makes antibodies only to pathogens in her environment, the baby receives the protection it most needs-against the infectious agents it is most likely to encounter in the first weeks of life.

Second, the antibodies delivered to the infant ignore useful bacteria normally found in the gut. This flora serves to crowd out the growth of harmful organisms, thus providing another measure of resistance. Researchers do not yet know how the mother’s immune system knows to make antibodies against only pathogenic and not normal bacteria, but whatever the process may be, it favors the establishment of “good bacteria” in a baby’s gut.

Secretory IgA molecules further keep an infant from harm in that, unlike most other antibodies, they ward off disease without causing inflammation-a process in which various chemicals destroy microbes but potentially hurt healthy tissue. In an infant’s developing gut, the mucosal membrane is extremely delicate, and an excess of these chemicals can do considerable damage. Interestingly, secretory IgA can probably protect mucosal surfaces other than those in the gut. In many countries, particularly in the Middle East, western South America and northern Africa, women put milk in their infants’ eyes to treat infections there. I do not know if this remedy has ever been tested scientifically, but there are theoretical reasons to believe it would work. It probably does work at least some of the time, or the practice would have died out.

The findings on breastmilk antibodies serve to reinforce the superior nutritional value of breastmilk for newborns, which offers the baby long-term benefits that infant formula has been unable to match.

“Furthermore, the quantity of sugars produced by the mother changes as the baby ages so that a newborn baby will receive a higher amount of sugars in the breastmilk compared to a six-month-old.”

The presence of these sugars allows ‘friendly’ bacteria to flourish and out-compete any harmful bacteria that may be in the baby’s gut, such as Group B streptococcus.

Since protection by breastmilk occurs primarily at the mucosal surface from factors including secretory IgA (sigA) and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) such as lacto-N-difucohexaose I, it becomes more more resilient to protein breakdown and so is able to exert its function in the gastrointestinal tract.

The pathogens attach onto the sugar, which is subsequently excreted by the body’s immune system.

Research from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine explored this paradox demonstrating that breast milk has a strong virus killing effect and protects against oral transmission of HIV.

Vaccines vs. Breastmilk

Vaccines inhibit the growth of essential immune cells early in life, and avoiding vaccines could actually improve an infant’s response to infection. More specifically, vaccines suppress very specific types of proteins found in breastmilk which inhibits the growth of specific cancers.

“What happens at an early age is that natural killer cells, like many other immune cells, do not complete their functional maturation until adulthood,” says study senior author Yasmina Laouar, Ph.D., assistant professor in the U-M Department of Microbiology and Immunology.

“During this time we are left with an immature immune system that cannot protect us against infections, the reason why newborns and infants are more prone to infection,” she says.

Vaccines promote and extend the immature immune system of infants preventing the natural formation of immune cells. This is not only accomplished by interfering with DNA but introducing heavy metals such as aluminum, mercury and other toxic preservatives found in vaccines.

There is a large gap in understanding infant immunity, specifically why the natural killer cell responses are deficient. The study by immunologists at the U-M demonstrates the role of a cell called transforming growth factor beta that can explain why most vaccine scientists mistakenly believe that suppression of the body’s natural signaling mechanisms benefits immunity when it actively suppresses it.

As is true of defensive molecules, immune cells are abundant in human milk. They consist of white blood cells, or leukocytes, that fight infection themselves and activate other defense mechanisms. The most impressive amount is found in colostrum. Most of the cells are neutrophils, a type of phagocyte that normally circulates in the bloodstream. Some evidence suggests that neutrophils continue to act as phagocytes in the infant’s gut. Yet they are less aggressive than blood neutrophils and virtually disappear from breast milk six weeks after birth.

Milk lymphocytes manufacture several chemicals-including gamma-interferon, migration inhibition factor and monocyte chemotactic factor-that can strengthen an infant’s own immune response.

Infants aren’t allergic to human milk protein but are often allergic to proteins in vaccines. Proteins in breast milk are soft, easily-digestible whey, have lactoferrin for intestinal health, antimicrobial lysozymes, rich growth factors and sleep-inducing proteins.

When mother is exposed to a germ, she makes antibodies to that germ and gives these antibodies to her infant via her milk. In vaccines, there are no live white blood cells and no immunological benefit for infants since there are no functional immunoglobulins to enhance the body. Breastmilk is rich in living white blood cells, millions per feeding and rich in immunoglobulins which benefit the immature immune system.

Unlike breastmilk, vaccines contain no digestive enzymes to promote intestinal health. Hormones in human milk contribute to the overall biochemical balance and well- being of baby. By taking on the flavor of mother’s diet, breastmilk shapes the tastes of the child to family foods. Vaccines on the other hand create synergistic toxicity which is a well-known phenomenon where the combination of toxic substances can be greater than the sum of its parts.

Vaccination for infants, especially newborns is being slowly established as one of the more risky medical interventions in conventional healthcare. While vaccines have been correlated with allergies, respiratory infections and type 1 diabetes, breastmilk has been shown to prevent all of the above.

If we allow an infant’s immune system to naturally develop with optimal nourishment, breast milk, and vitamin D, there is little more that any infant will need to optimize health. If we continue to pursue artificial means of immunization, it will only lead to the polar opposite result, immune suppression and inevitably disease.

*Article originally appeared at Prevent Disease.



When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Wizkid Wins BET Best African International Act Award

Ayodeji Balogun popularly called Wizkid has bagged an international award beating off other talented acts from Africa.

 

Wizkid

 

Starboy and Sony Music act, Wizkid has won the BET Awards 2017 "Best African International Act Award".

He beat the likes of Tekno, Aka, Nasty C, Mr Eazi, Babes Wodumo and his rival, Davido.

Wizkid is slated to perform on the Mainstage at the show later today. Nigerians are flooding the page of the Ojuelegba crooner with congratulatory messages.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)