Sri Lankan MP ‘beaten to death by angry mob’ during anti-government protests

A Sri Lankan MP, Amarakeerthi Athukorala, was beaten to death by an angry mob during anti-government protests, contradicting initial police reports that he had committed suicide after shooting a protester. The incident occurred amid widespread unrest and economic crisis in Sri Lanka, with protesters demanding the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The new Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, warned of worsening shortages and power outages. Despite a curfew and a 'shoot on sight' order, demonstrations continue, and over 200 people have been arrested, with allegations of wrongful detentions.

Inside the ‘scandalously beautiful’ children’s hospital designed by The Shard’s architect

The Children's Surgical Hospital in Entebbe, Uganda, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, stands as a beacon of medical excellence and architectural beauty. Initiated by the late Dr. Gino Strada and run by the charity Emergency, the hospital offers free, life-changing surgeries to children across Africa. Funded by the Ugandan government and international donors, including the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, the facility aims to transform Uganda's paediatric healthcare system. The hospital's design integrates traditional Ugandan building methods with modern technology, creating a healing environment that restores dignity and hope to its young patients.

Paratrooper mauled to death by bear during military training

Sgt Seth Michael Plant, a 30-year-old US army paratrooper, was fatally mauled by a brown bear during military training in Anchorage, Alaska. Another soldier sustained minor injuries. The incident is under investigation by the US army. Sgt Plant had been stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson since July 2021. A bear den with cubs was found nearby, and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game suggested it was a defensive attack by a female bear. The bear's whereabouts following the attack are unknown, but it was seen leaving the den with the cubs.

Ukraine morning briefing: Five developments as Ukraine claims to have hit Russian ship at Snake Island

Ukrainian forces claim to have damaged a Russian logistics ship near Snake Island, intensifying the battle for control of the Black Sea coast. President Zelensky condemned Russian attacks on schools and accused their forces of cowardice. The first Russian soldier is set to be tried for war crimes in Ukraine. Relatives of fighters in the Azovstal steel plant call for efforts to rescue wounded servicemen amid ongoing bombardment. UNICEF reports nearly 100 children killed in Ukraine in the past month, highlighting the severe impact of the war on children.

South Korea offers Covid aid to North as 'explosive' spread of 'fever' leads to first deaths

South Korea plans to provide Covid-19 vaccines and medical supplies to North Korea following the latter's confirmation of its first Covid-19 deaths and a widespread fever. North Korea, which had previously claimed to have eradicated the virus, is now facing a severe public health crisis exacerbated by a lack of vaccinations and a weak healthcare system. Kim Jong-un has enforced nationwide lockdowns and criticized the failure to prevent the outbreak. Offers of assistance from China, South Korea, and international organizations have been made, but North Korea has yet to respond. The situation is compounded by ongoing food security issues and potential impacts on the farming season.

Sumaya Sadurni: photojournalist and ‘rock’n’roll Mother Teresa’ dies at 32

Sumaya Sadurni, a talented and courageous photojournalist known for her impactful work and deep personal connections, has died at 32 in an accident in Uganda. Her career included significant coverage of Uganda's 2021 elections and the Covid-19 lockdown, and she was a mentor and teacher to many young photographers. Her legacy is celebrated by friends, colleagues, and those she photographed, who remember her as a compassionate and fearless individual.

Rwanda opens doors to refugees

Rwanda is set to receive nearly 120 migrants and asylum seekers who were previously imprisoned in Libya after attempting to cross the Mediterranean. This move is part of Rwanda's efforts to provide refuge to those stranded in North Africa.

The woman who redefined man: Jane Goodall’s life of activism continues

Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist and activist, continues her lifelong mission to protect chimpanzees and their habitats. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Ngamba Island chimpanzee sanctuary in Uganda, Goodall reflects on her pioneering research in Tanzania and her transition to full-time activism. Despite facing sexism and academic criticism, her groundbreaking studies have redefined human understanding of animal behavior. Goodall's Jane Goodall Institute runs various conservation programs, including the Roots and Shoots initiative, aimed at educating and empowering the next generation. She remains critical of political inaction on environmental issues and advocates for humane rehabilitation spaces for rescued chimpanzees.

More than one million S.Sudan refugees in Uganda: UN

The UN has reported that the number of South Sudanese refugees in Uganda has reached one million, marking the world's fastest-growing refugee crisis. The civil war in South Sudan, which began in December 2013, has resulted in widespread violence and famine, displacing millions. Uganda, despite its own economic challenges, has been the primary host for these refugees, with the Bidibidi camp housing around 270,000 people. The UNHCR and other organizations like the ICRC have highlighted the dire conditions and the need for increased funding to support the refugees. However, there are concerns about the accuracy of the reported numbers, which are expected to be clarified through biometric registration. Uganda's progressive refugee policies have been strained by the crisis, and with the ongoing conflict in South Sudan, the refugees are unlikely to return home soon.

Over one million S.Sudan refugees in Uganda: UN

The UN reports that over one million South Sudanese refugees have fled to Uganda due to the ongoing civil war, with many more displaced within the region. The conflict, which began in 2013, has led to widespread violence and famine, severely impacting women and children. Uganda, despite its progressive refugee policies, is struggling to cope with the influx, facing shortages in food, medical supplies, and educational resources. The UNHCR and other humanitarian organizations are working to address the crisis, but funding remains insufficient. The situation remains dire with no immediate resolution in sight.