Chris Infotainment

A Vibrant Celebration of Culture and Tradition Nguyen Hue, a bustling street in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, is set to transform into a vibrant "flower street" for eight days during the Lunar New Year. This annual event, which has become a cherished tradition, will feature not only an array of colorful flowers but also food stalls, marking a new addition to the festivities. City authorities have announced that the event will open to the public at 7 p.m. on February 15 and will continue until February 22. The celebration will be spread across both sides of Nguyen Hue Street and at its intersection with Le Loi Street. Organizers are planning to set up nearly 50 food booths, offering a wide variety of local delicacies to visitors. The Lunar New Year, known as Tet in Vietnam, is the most significant festival in the country, and the "flower street" event has evolved into a cultural hallmark of Ho Chi Minh City. Last year, the street attracted over 1.2 million visit...

Launch of the Vegetable Development Project in Kukuom President John Dramani Mahama has initiated a new vegetable development project, marking a significant step towards addressing food insecurity. This initiative aims to empower farmers by enabling them to grow more food and secure a stable income. The project was launched in Kukuom as a central component of his government's broader "Feed Ghana Initiative." President Mahama emphasized that the primary goal is to ensure Ghanaians have consistent access to affordable, locally grown vegetables throughout the year. The project includes a comprehensive support package for farmers, which encompasses high-quality seeds, organic fertilizer, training, and digital advice. These resources are designed to enhance productivity and sustainability in farming practices. To address the challenge of farmers struggling to sell their crops, the President announced a partnership with FarmMeets, a committed buyer that will purchase all the...

Ghana Advances Integrated Iron and Steel Industry with New Collaboration Ghana has taken a significant step forward in its ambition to develop an integrated iron and steel industry. This progress comes after the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC) signed a cooperation agreement with the Ghana Geological Survey Authority. The partnership aims to enhance technical efforts in mineral exploration, marking a key milestone in the nation’s industrial development strategy. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) formalizes a long-standing collaboration between the two entities. It outlines joint initiatives including geological mapping, geophysical surveys, sampling, laboratory analysis, drilling supervision, and data interpretation. These activities are crucial for advancing the country’s first mineral resource estimation for iron ore. Strengthening Technical Roles and Institutional Coordination GIISDEC Chief Executive, Williams Okofo-Dateh, emphasized that the...

Forensic Investigation Unveils Mismanagement at University Research Farm A forensic investigation into the University of Fort Hare's research farm has revealed serious allegations of mismanagement, fraud, and stock theft involving Nguni cattle. The findings, detailed in a report by Morar Incorporated, have led to criminal charges against the former farm manager and an auctioneering agent. The Leak of the Report The leaked investigation report highlighted how Nguni cattle from the Honeydale Research Farm were sold for below-market prices. The farm’s former manager, Dirk Potgieter, and one of his clients were charged with stock theft. Additionally, there were reports of missing sheep and cattle, raising concerns about the integrity of the farm’s operations. A Critical Incident on 18 October 2023 On 18 October 2023, a truck loaded with Nguni cattle was intercepted on its way to Bizana. The cattle, which belonged to the university, had been sold by Potgieter without following prop...

Strategic Partnership Between Doosan Enerbility and KEPCO KPS Doosan Enerbility has recently announced a significant business agreement with KEPCO Plant Service & Engineering Co., Ltd. This collaboration aims to expand their presence in the global power generation market by jointly developing overseas projects and modernizing aging power plants. The partnership is expected to leverage the combined strengths of both companies, creating new opportunities for growth and innovation. Objectives of the Agreement The primary goal of this agreement is to advance into new overseas power generation businesses and modernization projects for aging power plants. Doosan Enerbility brings its expertise in EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) execution and power generation equipment manufacturing. On the other hand, KEPCO KPS contributes its advanced power plant maintenance technology. Together, they aim to combine these capabilities to deliver comprehensive solutions for internati...

Enforcement Actions Target Illegal Recycling Practices The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has taken decisive action against illegal recycling operations in the Ogijo community of Ogun State. In collaboration with the Ogun State Ministry of Environment, NESREA sealed six recycling facilities on Thursday due to non-compliance with the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024 and a protocol designed to ensure the environmentally sound management of used lead-acid batteries. The enforcement action highlights growing concerns over unsafe recycling practices that release toxic lead and other heavy metals into the environment. These practices pose significant risks to both residents and the surrounding ecosystem. The Ogijo area, known as a key hub for battery recycling, has long been associated with complaints of lead contamination, soil degradation, and air pollution caused by improper waste handling. Compliance Measures and S...

Addis Ababa, November 27, 2025 — A groundbreaking fossil discovery in the Woranso-Mille region of Ethiopia has provided new insights into the evolutionary history of early humans. According to a recent study led by Yohannes Haile-Selassie from Arizona State University, the species known as Australopithecus deyiremeda co-existed with another relative, specifically the well-known Lucy’s species, Australopithecus afarensis. The Australopithecus deyiremeda, an early human ancestor that lived approximately 3.4 million years ago, was first identified in 2009. The initial discovery involved a mysterious fossilized foot found in Burtele, within the Afar Region. This find sparked significant scientific interest and debate over its origins and significance. During a recent briefing, Yohannes Haile-Selassie, a paleoanthropologist at Arizona State University, explained how the discovery of a juvenile jawbone, which matched the same age and geological layer as the foot, allowed scientists to con...

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and Regional Dynamics The completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia's journey toward self-reliance and sustainable development. Over the past fourteen years, Ethiopia has invested immense effort into constructing this monumental project, which is now fully operational. However, neighboring countries, particularly Egypt, have been vocal in their criticisms, shifting narratives based on perceived water availability. This pattern of accusation highlights the complex dynamics surrounding the Nile River and its resources. Ethiopia’s focus on water and clean energy production is central to its development strategy. The GERD is not just a dam; it is a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s vision for a prosperous future. Throughout the construction period, downstream states such as Egypt and Sudan did not experience water shortages. In fact, the modern dam built in the cool highlands of Ethiopia conse...

Innovation in Gas Production Boosts Nigeria's Energy Security The NNPC/Heirs Energies Joint Venture (JV) has made a significant breakthrough by successfully implementing a rigless recompletion of a key non-associated gas well in the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 17. This pioneering operation, the first of its kind in Nigeria, has doubled the JV’s gas output to a peak of 135 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscf/d). This achievement has not only enhanced domestic gas supply but also strengthened the nation’s energy security. Transforming Power Generation This increase in gas production has had a transformative effect on power generation across the eastern network. Transcorp PLC – TransAfam Power, one of Nigeria’s leading power generation plants, has quadrupled its output, rising from an average of 50 megawatts to more than 180 megawatts, with peaks of 200 megawatts. Other power plants supplied by the network, including First Independent Power Limited (FIPL) and Geometric Power, hav...

The Significance of Sustainable Industrialisation in Kenya This year’s Africa Industrialisation Day, observed on November 20, focuses on the themes of Sustainable Industrialisation, Regional Integration, and Innovation. For Kenya, this day presents an opportunity to reflect on how the strategic implementation of sustainable practices can drive sustainable industrial growth. At a critical juncture, sustainable industrialisation is no longer just an aspiration—it is essential for maintaining global competitiveness. A crucial factor in achieving industrial growth is the development of sustainable energy infrastructure. According to the Energy and Petroleum Statistics Report for the Financial Year ending June 30, 2025, issued by the Energy & Petroleum Regulation Authority (Epra), renewable power accounted for 80.17% of total power generated that year. This breakdown includes: Geothermal energy at 39.51% Hydropower at 24.21% Wind power at 13.18% Utility-scale solar installations ...

The Role of Engineering in National Development Engineering is no longer just a profession; it has become a national imperative. As the 32nd Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) International Convention unfolds under the theme "Engineering the Future: The Roadmap for Kenya," it marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s development journey. This event is not just about discussing engineering—it's about shaping the future of Kenya through strategic planning, innovation, and sustainable growth. The conversations at this year’s convention will directly influence the policies we craft, the technologies we adopt, and the innovations we pursue. Engineering has always been central to national development, whether in energy, roads, housing, water, ICT, or manufacturing. Engineers are the ones who transform national visions into tangible outcomes. In the energy sector, where I have spent much of my career, reliable power is more than a utility—it's an enabler of transformati...

A Cosmic Butterfly Captured by a Telescope in Chile A remarkable image of a grand and graceful cosmic butterfly has been captured by a telescope in Chile. This stunning visual was released by the National Science Foundation's NoirLab on Wednesday. The photograph was taken last month using the Gemini South telescope, which captured the Butterfly Nebula, a celestial object that lies between 2,500 to 3,800 light-years away in the constellation Scorpius. To put this distance into perspective, one light-year is approximately 6 trillion miles. At the center of this bipolar nebula is a white dwarf star that shed its outer layers of gas long ago. The expelled gas forms the butterfly-like wings that extend from the aging star. The heat from the star causes this gas to glow, creating the mesmerizing visual that has now been captured by the telescope. The Butterfly Nebula is not only a scientific marvel but also a symbol of educational outreach. Schoolchildren in Chile selected this astron...

Sri Lanka's New Wind Power Plant Aims to Boost Renewable Energy Sri Lanka is taking significant steps towards achieving its renewable energy goals with the planned construction of a 204 MW wind power plant in the Kiranchi-Veravil area of the Kilinochchi district. This project is part of the government’s broader strategy to maximize the contribution of renewable energy sources to the national electricity grid. Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody recently visited the site of the proposed wind power plant to assess its progress and ensure that all necessary preparations are in place for the project’s implementation. The visit took place on Tuesday, November 25, and focused on the details of the wind power project, which is expected to add substantial renewable energy capacity to the country’s power supply. Objectives and Benefits of the Project The primary objective of the project is to harness the wind power potential in the northern region of Sri Lanka, which has long been underdeve...

Mysterious Red Halo Over Italian Town Stuns Scientists A strange red halo has appeared over a small Italian town for the second time in three years, leaving scientists and locals alike baffled. The phenomenon, which resembles a UFO-like ring, was captured by photographer Valter Binotto, who witnessed the glowing structure floating above Possagno, a tiny town nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps. The photograph was taken at 10:45 local time on November 17. Interestingly, this red halo closely resembles another one that Mr. Binotto spotted in the same location in March 2023. This year's halo was estimated to be 150 miles (200 kilometers) across and hovered at an altitude of about 60 miles (100 kilometers). Despite the eerie appearance, Mr. Binotto does not believe that extraterrestrial forces are responsible. Instead, he suggests that these rings are likely a rare lighting-related phenomenon known as ELVEs—short for "Emission of Light and very Low-frequency Electromag...

Benue State Supports Federal Livestock Policy The Benue State Government has expressed its readiness to work closely with the Federal Government on a new livestock management policy. This move comes as part of a broader effort to address long-standing issues related to open grazing and security challenges in the agricultural sector. Dr Aondoakaa Asambe, the Director-General of the Bureau of Livestock Development & Transboundary Animal Diseases Control, highlighted this commitment in a statement released on Thursday. He praised President Bola Tinubu for his decision to ban open grazing and promote ranching as a more sustainable model for livestock production. This policy shift is seen as a critical step in addressing the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers. In addition to the livestock management initiative, President Tinubu recently declared an emergency on security, directing herders to surrender any illegal weapons they may possess. State’s Position on Open Grazing ...

Ongoing Desert Locust Outbreak in Mauritania and Southern Morocco The desert locust outbreak continues to affect Mauritania and the southern provinces of Morocco, with hopper groups, bands, and small swarms persisting throughout November. According to the latest report from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), these locusts have been moving northward, posing a significant threat to agricultural areas in the region. By November 24, Morocco had already treated more than 4,184 hectares to combat the infestation. The report highlights that isolated and scattered immature and mature adults were observed near Tiznit and Guelmim, indicating that the problem is not confined to one area. This widespread presence of locusts underscores the need for continued monitoring and intervention. Potential for New Breeding Cycles FAO warns that as winter rains intensify, conditions across southern Morocco could lead to the formation of a new generation of locusts. If left unchecked, this coul...

Soyuz MS-28 Mission Successfully Reaches ISS Despite Launch Pad Damage The Soyuz MS-28 mission, which saw a Russian Soyuz spacecraft carrying two cosmonauts and a NASA astronaut successfully dock with the International Space Station (ISS), faced an unexpected challenge during its launch. The launch pad at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan was damaged after the mission lifted off, raising concerns about future operations at the site. Russia's space agency, Roscosmos, confirmed that "damage to a number of elements of the launch pad was detected" following the launch. The agency stated that repairs would be carried out as quickly as possible. However, some Russian space bloggers have expressed concerns that the damage could lead to delays in future launches, especially since Baikonur is Russia’s only manned-mission site. Despite these challenges, the Soyuz spacecraft reached the ISS safely on Thursday. The crew includes Russian cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Ser...

Introduction to the UHT Transmission Line Project The National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) has initiated a pre-qualification process for contractors interested in constructing new ultra-high-voltage alternating current (UHT) transmission lines. These lines, spanning approximately 1,000 kilometers, will connect the Boujdour and Tensift regions, enabling the efficient transport of electricity over long distances. This project is a key component of ONEE’s broader strategy to enhance the national electricity transmission network and support Morocco’s energy transition. It is part of a comprehensive portfolio of major electrical infrastructure projects that include both operational, under-construction, and developing initiatives led by the Office. Strategic Importance of the Project Among the notable projects within this portfolio is the future high-voltage direct current (HVDC) link, which is currently being developed to directly connect southern Morocco to the cen...

Expert Calls for Comprehensive Survey to Prevent Future Landslides in Kadugannawa A recent landslide in Ganethenna, Kadugannawa, which resulted in six fatalities, has highlighted the urgent need for a thorough geological assessment of the surrounding area. Dr. Athula Senaratne, a former Senior Professor of Geology at Peradeniya University, emphasized the importance of a comprehensive survey of a 400-acre area around the railway line and main road to mitigate future landslide risks. During an inspection of the affected site, Dr. Senaratne explained the complex geological conditions that make the region vulnerable to landslides. He pointed out that while the main road and railway line are built on bedrock and not directly at risk of collapse, unstable sections of the wider area could still impact their structural integrity. "When the railway was constructed, large tunnels were drilled through rock," he said. "It is possible that large rocks dislodged during the construc...

A Landmark Ruling in France and Its Implications for Africa A recent court ruling in France has set a significant precedent for corporate accountability, particularly in the context of climate change. The Paris Judicial Court found the global oil and gas giant TotalEnergies guilty of misleading commercial practices, marking the first time a fossil fuel company has been punished for greenwashing. This case was brought by three environmental organizations, which argued that TotalEnergies' advertising campaigns falsely portrayed the company as a leader in the energy transition. Understanding Greenwashing and Its Consequences Greenwashing refers to the practice of making misleading or exaggerated claims about the environmental benefits of a product, service, or company. In this case, TotalEnergies’ advertisements suggested that the company was actively working towards reducing its carbon footprint and achieving net zero emissions by 2050. However, the company’s greenhouse gas emissi...