MOMBASA, Kenya—In a significant step towards promoting gender equality and social welfare, the Mombasa County Government has partnered with The Aga Khan Foundation to conduct a workshop aimed at advancing these goals in the Coast Region and across Kenya.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Advancing Gender Equality through Civil Society (AGECS) Global Learning Workshop, held at Pride Inn Paradise in Mombasa, brought together 130 participants. These included representatives from Civil Society Organizations, Universities, and Research Institutions from 14 countries, primarily from Africa and Asia. The workshop underscored the collective efforts needed to foster sustainable development and social welfare with a keen focus on gender equality.
The Aga Khan Foundation, known for its global outreach and dedication to improving the lives of marginalized communities, emphasized its commitment to women and girls' empowerment. Kenneth Ambani, the County Executive Committee Member for Youth, Gender, Social Services, and Sports, highlighted the urgency of addressing gender-based violence and the importance of male involvement in safeguarding women's rights.
Ambani pointed out the critical issues of early pregnancies and marriages, noting their profound impact on young people's lives. He stressed the importance of education and awareness to prevent these situations, which often lead to further complications, such as substance abuse. Ambani's message was clear: prioritizing humanity and recognizing the basic needs and rights of all individuals is essential for progress.
Kennedy Mambo Chande, overseeing the Advancing Gender through Civil Society Project at the Aga Khan Foundation, mentioned the collaboration with local organizations 'Sauti ya Wanawake Pwani' and Dream Achievers Youth Organization. He expressed concern over the rise of femicide in the country and the collective effort required to combat gender inequalities effectively.
The workshop concluded with a strong message of unity and human rights, aiming to inspire participants to spread awareness and contribute to the fight for gender equality in their communities and beyond.
OUAGADOUGOU - The Burkinabè army successfully neutralized a group of terrorists planning to attack a convoy in the North-Central region, particularly on National Road Number 3. This operation occurred on Tuesday, February 13, 2024.According to Burkina Information Agency, On the morning of February 13, a group of terrorists was detected in the Naré area, located between Guibga and Dibga, approximately twenty kilometers from Pissila. The terrorists, traveling by motorcycle, were converging towards a larger group for a meeting under a large tree. Their target was a convoy traveling on National Road Number 3. However, their plan was disrupted when a missile struck, eliminating a significant number of terrorists.
Despite some terrorists fleeing the initial attack, their attempt to regroup under a large tree for safety was thwarted by a subsequent missile strike. This second strike caused further casualties among the terrorists. Some terrorists, who were stationed under nearby trees, abandoned their motorcycles and fled on foot, leaving behind their compatriots.
This successful operation follows a similar achievement by the Burkinabè forces on February 12, 2024, in Yaongo, located 30 kilometers from Boulsa. In that incident, terrorists were repelled by the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) and were later pursued by combat helicopters to their final stronghold. The subsequent air raids resulted in the complete destruction of the terrorist base.
These operations are part of ongoing reconquest efforts in various sectors, marking a significant stride in the Burkinabè military's campaign against terrorism in the region.