Christmas playlist for a true festive time

Christmas lights around the world create magical experiences, from Dyker Heights in Brooklyn with extravagant displays to Medellín in Colombia's Alumbrados festival. Kobe Luminarie in Japan commemorates the Great Hanshin Earthquake, while Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen transforms into a fairytale wonderland. Sydney, Regent Street in London, and Plaza de Armas in Cusco, Peru, also offer stunning light displays for festive celebrations. Full Article

Looking to stick to your New Year's resolution of eating healthier while dining out? Try ordering two appetisers instead of one main dish to prevent overeating, ask for half of high-calorie meals to be packed for later, opt for tomato-based sauces over creamy ones, and choose baked or steamed meats over fried options. Avoid buffets, sugary drinks, and cocktails, and stick to water or unsweetened tea. Additionally, exercise regularly to burn calories and curb your...

More than 24.6 million people in Sudan are facing acute food insecurity, with famine confirmed in five areas and projected to expand to additional regions. Conflict is a key driver of the crisis, displacing over 12 million people and leading to widespread suffering, including severe malnutrition and deadly diseases. Urgent recommendations include a cessation of hostilities, increased humanitarian access, and scaling up assistance to prevent the situation from worsening. Full Article

South Africa expresses concern over violence and protests in Mozambique following election results, urging all parties to engage in dialogue for national healing and progress. South Africa offers assistance to facilitate the dialogue and will continue working with SADC and other agencies for a lasting solution. South Africa calls for restraint and calm from all parties involved in the ongoing crisis. Full Article

During a safari, ask your guide to show you three interesting plant species: the bushman’s candle, which survives droughts and has medicinal properties, khakibos with medicinal uses and insect repellent properties, and the devil’s thorn, which produces natural soap when its leaves are crushed. These plants have unique features and uses that make them worth exploring on your next bush adventure. Full Article

Local journalist Hanan Adam and her brother were killed in an attack by the RSF in al-Madina, al-Gezira state. The IFJ condemned the killings and called for justice, as Sudan remains the deadliest country for journalists in Africa, with the RSF targeting media workers. The IFJ urges the Sudanese government and warring parties to protect journalists and allow them to work without fear or intimidation. Full Article