South Sudan farmers pin hopes on rare climate-resistant coffee

Lina SinjabMiddle East CorrespondentBBCOn the morning of 8 December 2024, I waited anxiously at the Lebanese border, hoping to get into Syria as soon as the crossing opened, not knowing what to expect.Bashar al-Assad, the president of 24 years, was gone. Opposition fighters had advanced towards Damascus, taking major cities including Aleppo. I couldn't believe what I was seeing: Syria was free.Like many Syrians, I'd only ever known the country under the rule of Assad...

Mindful Mamas is a vibrant community of 1,000 mothers who engage in activities like play dates, book clubs, and sharing parenting stories, all aimed at fostering a more present and grounded self. The initiative emphasizes connection and support among mothers as they navigate the challenges of parenthood. CNA Women recently met with the four founders to explore the impact and vision behind this enriching community. Full Article

During the recent French-language leaders' debate in Montreal, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre questioned Liberal Leader Mark Carney about his pursuit of a fourth term, to which Carney defended himself by claiming, "I just got here." Notably, Carney's French was described as rudimentary, featuring uncommon terms, while Poilievre attempted humor with limited success. Additionally, Poilievre and his fellow candidates referenced U.S. strawberries, likely targeting Carney, who had previously commented on his eating habits regarding American produce....

US Vice-President JD Vance is visiting Rome to meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and the Vatican Secretary of State, with a key objective being to secure a brief encounter with Pope Francis. This meeting, if it occurs, could symbolize a thaw in strained relations between the Vatican and Washington over issues like migration, especially as Vance represents a contrasting vision of Catholicism compared to Pope Francis's more compassionate approach. Vance's visit follows a...

Mona Nygaard successfully won a Family Court case for her share of relationship property, which was once valued in the millions. Her ex-husband, Oscar Nygaard, appealed the decision that left him with less than $100,000, but the High Court dismissed his appeal and upheld Mona's cross-appeal, resulting in him having to pay slightly more in compensation. The legal battle felt overwhelming for Mona, likening the experience to walking into quicksand that threatened to pull her...

Summary After a trial-within-a-trial lasting over two weeks, Judge Nathan Erasmus ruled that statements implicating accused individuals Jacquen "Boeta" Appolis and Steveno Van Rhyn in the kidnapping and trafficking of Joshlin Smith can be admitted as evidence. This decision came after careful consideration of the testimonies and circumstances surrounding the case. The ruling is pivotal as it allows critical evidence to be presented in the ongoing trial, potentially impacting the outcomes for the accused. Full...