Algeria has given 12 French officials a 48-hour deadline to leave the country, as confirmed by the French foreign minister.
This move is widely seen as a response to the recent arrest of three Algerian nationals in France.
“I am asking Algerian authorities to abandon these expulsion measures… if the decision to send back our officials is maintained, we will have no other choice but to respond immediately,” said Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.
A diplomatic source noted that among those asked to leave are members of the French interior ministry.
The diplomatic fallout follows the indictment of three Algerians, including a consular official, by French prosecutors on Friday. They are suspected of being involved in the April 2024 abduction of Algerian influencer Amir Boukhors in a suburb of Paris.
Boukhors, known online as “Amir DZ,” is a prominent critic of the Algerian government. He has more than a million followers on TikTok and was granted political asylum in France in 2023.
The Algerian government is calling for Boukhors’ extradition to face legal charges and has issued nine international arrest warrants accusing him of fraud and terrorism.
This development adds to the strain on an already delicate relationship. For years, the dynamic between Paris and Algiers has been marked by complexity, despite various diplomatic efforts to foster improved ties.
On Monday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa named former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas as a special envoy to the United States.
Jonas, who currently serves as the independent non-executive chairman of MTN Group, a major telecommunications company, will maintain his role at MTN while undertaking his new diplomatic responsibilities.
“Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa’s diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities. He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with U.S. government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests,” said a statement from President Ramaphosa’s office.
The appointment comes at a time when relations between South Africa and the United States have worsened since President Donald Trump returned to office in January.
The U.S. has slashed financial aid to South Africa, citing concerns over its land reform agenda and its legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Additionally, Washington expelled South Africa’s ambassador last month.
Jonas previously held the position of deputy finance minister from 2014 to 2017. He gained recognition for speaking out against corruption and played a key role in the judicial inquiry that examined graft and undue influence during former President Jacob Zuma’s administration.
During the inquiry, Jonas testified that the Gupta brothers known associates of Zuma offered him the finance minister post and a large sum of money. Both Zuma and the Guptas have denied any wrongdoing.
Sony, the renowned Japanese electronics company, has announced that it is increasing prices for select PlayStation 5 models in several international markets—excluding the United States—due to “challenging” global economic conditions.
The company told AFP on Monday that the PS5 Digital Edition, which comes without a disc drive, will see a price rise of over 10 percent in Europe, the UK, and Australia.
In a blog post shared on Sunday, Sony said the “tough decision” to raise prices was influenced by ongoing economic difficulties, including high inflation rates and unstable exchange rates.
The announcement comes as global markets continue to feel the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s shifting tariffs, which have sparked a trade war with China and fueled fears of a wider economic downturn.
The blog post also noted that New Zealand will face a price increase for the PS5 Digital Edition.
In addition, Sony revealed that the price of the standard PS5, which includes a Blu-ray disc drive, will increase in both Australia and New Zealand.
Although no specific pricing was disclosed, the company stated that some price adjustments will also take place in the Middle East and Africa.
On a positive note for gamers, Sony announced that the recommended price for the standalone PS5 disc drive will be reduced.
All new pricing changes are set to take effect starting Monday. The company confirmed that the pricing for the premium, high-performance PS5 Pro launched in November will remain unchanged.
Originally released in 2020, the PlayStation 5 saw a boost with the PS5 Pro version, which includes upgrades that improve game speed and visual quality.
In Europe, the PS5 Digital Edition will now retail for 499.99 euros ($570.04), while in the UK, it will be priced at 429.99 pounds ($566.53).
Russian missiles hit the center of Sumy, a city in northeastern Ukraine, while people gathered to celebrate Palm Sunday. At least 34 people died in what became the second major attack in just over a week to kill civilians in Ukraine.
According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, the dead included two children. Around 117 people got injured, including 15 children.
Officials said the two ballistic missiles hit at about 10:15 a.m. local time. Photos from the scene showed rows of black body bags along the road. More bodies were wrapped in foil blankets among the wreckage.
Ukrainian officials stated that 20 buildings were damaged. This included four educational institutions, several cafes, shops, and five apartment buildings. Ten cars and trams were also hit.
BBC Ukrainian reported that the university’s congress center, often used for children’s classes, was among the damaged sites. Local residents said the center was an “educational hub for the entire city” and “very actively rented out for various courses, clubs, and master classes”.
Officials in Sumy also said that the missiles had cluster munitions, which can kill randomly over large areas. The blasts caused burning vehicles and bent trees, where many of the deaths seemed to happen.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for a strong international reaction to the attack. It happened while U.S. President Donald Trump continued his efforts to end the war.
“Russia wants exactly this kind of terror and is dragging out this war. Without pressure on the aggressor, peace is impossible,” he said.
Zelenskyy said one of the injured was a baby born this year. He added that medics were doing “everything they can” to save lives. “The strike hit right in the heart of the city on Palm Sunday,” he said in his evening video address. “Only completely deranged scum can do something like this taking the lives of ordinary people,” he added.
He also posted on social media that the first missile hit buildings at a city university, while the second exploded above street level. Andriy Yermak, the head of the Ukrainian president’s office, said the strike used cluster munitions to try to kill as many people as possible. The Associated Press could not confirm this claim.
World leaders also condemned the attack. French President Emmanuel Macron said it damaged U.S.-led efforts to bring peace. “Everyone knows: This war was initiated by Russia alone. And today, it is clear that Russia alone chooses to continue it with blatant disregard for human lives, international law and the diplomatic efforts” of Mr. Trump, Macron said.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the attack “horrific”. He said, “President Zelensky has shown his commitment to peace, President Putin must now agree to a full and immediate ceasefire without conditions as Ukraine has done.”
Macron and Starmer are working together on a “coalition of the willing” to help carry out any peace deal in Ukraine.
The attack happened shortly after U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg on Friday. The Kremlin said the meeting went on for over four hours and focused on “aspects of a Ukrainian settlement”. Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev called it “productive” — it was Witkoff’s third meeting with Putin this year.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio gave his condolences to the victims of the “horrifying Russian missile attack on Sumy.” He said, “This is a tragic reminder of why President Trump and his Administration are putting so much time and effort into trying to end this war and achieve a just and durable peace.”
The Plateau State Government has strongly condemned another unprovoked attack by gunmen on Zike and Kimakpa communities in Kwall District, Miango, located in Bassa Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking with Walkyes Kwakfut, our correspondent over the phone, Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, stated that the attack is one too many and its reoccurrence pose a serious threat to the lives and livelihoods of the state’s peace-loving residents.
“It is sad that in less than two weeks after our people were killed in Bokkos local government, this sad incident is reoccurring in another community in Bassa local government” she said.
She described the attack as another attempt to disrupt the peace gradually returning to the state.
She termed the attacks as “provocative” and urged the affected communities and the entire state to remain calm and stay vigilant.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Mutfwang administration’s commitment to taking firm action against any individual or group found responsible for targeting innocent citizens.
She also discouraged any form of reprisal and urged security agencies to pursue and bring the perpetrators of these dastardly acts to justice
On April 13, 2025, Newcastle United delivered a commanding 4–1 victory over Manchester United at St. James’ Park, marking a significant moment in both clubs’ seasons.
Match Overview
Despite the absence of manager Eddie Howe due to illness, Newcastle, under assistant Jason Tindall, showcased a cohesive and dynamic performance. Sandro Tonali opened the scoring with a sharp volley, and although Alejandro Garnacho briefly equalized for Manchester United, Newcastle regained control with two goals from Harvey Barnes and a final strike from Bruno Guimarães, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error.
Tactical and Player Insights
Manchester United, managed by Ruben Amorim, fielded a rotated squad, prioritizing their upcoming Europa League fixture. This decision, coupled with defensive vulnerabilities, contributed to their downfall. Debutant goalkeeper Altay Bayındır struggled, notably in the buildup to Newcastle’s fourth goal.
Newcastle’s midfield, led by Tonali and Guimarães, dominated proceedings, while Barnes’ attacking prowess was evident in his two goals. The team’s depth and adaptability were on full display, reinforcing their credentials for a top-four finish.
Implications
This result propelled Newcastle into fourth place, bolstering their Champions League aspirations. Conversely, Manchester United’s 14th league loss equaled their worst Premier League season record, intensifying scrutiny on Amorim’s tactical approach and squad management.
With a crucial Europa League match against Lyon on the horizon, Manchester United faces mounting pressure to salvage their season.
Christian Chukwu, affectionately known as “Chairman,” has passed away at the age of 74. The former captain and coach of Nigeria’s national football team died on Saturday morning in his home state of Enugu.
Chukwu’s death was announced by his longtime friend and teammate, Dr. Olusegun Odegbami, who shared the news via social media. He described Chukwu as “one of the greatest football players in Nigeria’s football history.”
Born on January 4, 1951, Chukwu began his football journey with Enugu Rangers in 1972. He captained the Nigerian national team, then known as the Green Eagles, from 1974 to 1980. Under his leadership, Nigeria clinched its first Africa Cup of Nations title in 1980.
Transitioning into coaching, Chukwu led the Super Eagles to a third-place finish at the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations. He also managed other teams, including Kenya’s national team and his beloved Enugu Rangers.
In 2019, Chukwu faced health challenges that garnered public attention. The Nigeria Football Federation and philanthropist Femi Otedola contributed to his medical expenses, enabling him to receive treatment in the United States.
Chukwu is survived by his wife and four children. His legacy as a player, coach, and mentor has left an indelible mark on Nigerian football.
Tributes have poured in from across the football community, with many remembering Chukwu’s contributions to the sport and his role in shaping Nigeria’s football history.
The Trump administration has recently intensified its efforts to deport students and academics, marking a new phase in its broader immigration restrictions. According to data collected nationwide, over 600 international students and recent graduates in the U.S. have had their visas revoked or their legal status changed by the state department.
As of Thursday, April 10, 2025, more than 100 colleges and universities have reported over 600 cases of students whose immigration status was altered by the Trump administration. These institutions indicate that the affected students have lost their F-1 or J-1 student visas.
Some of these cases are linked to the students’ activism and involvement in student-led protests against the Gaza war, while others involve “minor crimes” like speeding tickets.
Inside Higher Ed reports that many college officials are unclear about why these foreign-born students had their visas revoked and have not received any formal notification from immigration authorities.
The data compiled by Inside Higher Ed comes from public reports and direct correspondence, and the database, which was first published on April 8, will be regularly updated at least twice a day.
Late last month, reports revealed that over 300 student visas were revoked in just three weeks through the state department’s “Catch and Revoke” program. This newly launched initiative, which is partially powered by artificial intelligence (AI), uses social media to identify “foreign nationals who appear to support Hamas or other designated terror groups” and subsequently cancels their visas, according to Axios.
Effective Ways To Avoid Deportation In The U.S.
luggage holder on suitcase or bag with TRAVEL INSURANCE ,traveling luggages in an airport terminal,before passenger and plane flying over sky,Can be used for montage or display your products
Maintain Legal Status:
Ensure your visa status is always up to date. This means keeping track of expiration dates, renewing your visa on time, and ensuring that your records with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) are correct.
Adhere to the Terms of Your Visa:
F-1 Visa Holders must be enrolled in a full-time academic program, and you can only work under specific conditions (like on-campus employment or authorized off-campus employment). Stay within the bounds of your visa. J-1 Visa Holders should comply with the specific terms of the exchange visitor program you are part of and follow the restrictions regarding employment, travel, and program duration.
Avoid Controversial Activities:
The Trump administration’s increased focus on deporting students involved in activism or protests related to political issues, such as the war in Gaza, makes it important to be cautious about engaging in activities that could draw attention from immigration authorities. If you’re involved in protests, be mindful of how your participation could be perceived.
Stay Clear Of Legal Violations:
Minor legal violations, such as traffic tickets, have also contributed to visa revocations. It’s crucial to obey local laws to avoid any issues that could trigger immigration actions.
Avoid Association with Controversial Groups:
The “Catch and Revoke” program utilizes social media to monitor potential connections with groups designated as threats, such as Hamas or other terrorist organizations. Be cautious of any online content that could be perceived as supportive of such groups.
Be Aware of Social Media:
Given that social media activity is being monitored, avoid posting or sharing content that could be interpreted as controversial or connected to extremist views. Social media platforms could be used by the government to assess your activities and affiliations.
Stay Informed on Immigration Policies:
Stay updated on the latest immigration policies and changes under the current administration. Legal requirements and enforcement actions can change, and staying informed helps you understand what might affect your status.
Consult with an Immigration Attorney:
If you have concerns about your status, consult with an experienced immigration lawyer who can provide guidance based on your situation. They can help ensure that you’re following the rules and advise you on how to protect yourself.
Engage with Your College or University:
Colleges and universities are often on the frontlines of protecting students’ rights. Stay in touch with international student services, as they can provide assistance in case of visa-related concerns and help clarify any questions you have about your status.
Respond Quickly to Immigration Notifications:
If you receive any communication from immigration authorities or your school regarding potential visa issues, respond immediately. Delays or failure to act can lead to further complications with your status.
The number of people living with HIV in South Africa has continued to grow, reaching over eight million in 2024. This figure comes from the latest estimates by Thembisa, South Africa’s leading mathematical model for tracking HIV and TB. That means about 12.8% of the country’s population is now living with the virus.
This steady rise is happening because more people are becoming newly infected with HIV than are dying from it. The increase also reflects the success of antiretroviral treatment, which helps people with HIV live longer, healthier lives.
Young women, especially between the ages of 15–24, continue to be more severely affected due to a mix of biological, social, and economic factors, including gender-based violence and unequal access to education and healthcare.
Between mid-2023 and mid-2024, there were an estimated 178,000 new HIV infections. In the same period, around 105,000 people living with HIV died about 53,000 due to HIV-related causes, and another 52,000 from other causes.
Thembisa’s current estimates for new infections are slightly higher than last year’s. Dr. Leigh Johnson from the University of Cape Town, who leads development of the model, says this change is largely because the model now includes new data showing that condom use is on the decline.
Impact of U.S Aid Suspension on South Africa
South Africa has more than 7.5 million people living with HIV the highest number in the world.
Right now, around 5.5 million South Africans rely on antiretroviral treatment. But the future of this treatment is uncertain after President Trump suspended funding for the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). This program provides over $400 million (about €384.5 million) each year to support HIV care and nonprofits in South Africa nearly 17% of all funding, according to the Health Ministry.
Since it began in 2003, PEPFAR has been credited with saving at least 26 million lives worldwide, according to the UN’s AIDS agency.
A U.S. federal judge ordered a temporary lift of the funding freeze in mid February 2025 and the U.S. Embassy in South Africa has said some PEPFAR projects will resume under a limited waiver but the damage is already visible.
Some aid groups that used to provide vital HIV services have closed their doors. Their buildings now sit empty with notices hanging on the gates, and PEPFAR-branded vehicles are parked and unused. As a result, patients are being sent to already overwhelmed public clinics and hospitals.
Most of the PEPFAR funding goes to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that run HIV programs alongside government health services. These groups don’t just give out medicine, they test people in rural communities, raise awareness, and support people who might be afraid to visit public clinics because of the stigma that still surrounds HIV.
Now, without their support, the pressure on the public health system is growing.
In 2023 alone, around 50,000 people in South Africa died from HIV-related illnesses.
The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre at the University of Cape Town warns that without PEPFAR support, the country could see another 500,000 HIV-related deaths over the next ten years. The reason? Fewer people will be tested, and many programs that offer education, care, and community support may disappear.
How Would You Know You Have HIV?
The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. You can’t depend on symptoms to tell you.
Knowing your HIV status helps you take steps to care for your health and protect your partner.
If you test positive, there’s medicine you can take to treat HIV. When taken as prescribed, this treatment (called ART or antiretroviral therapy) can lower the amount of HIV in your blood so much that it doesn’t show up on standard tests, this is called an undetectable viral load. People who reach this point and stay there can live long lives and won’t pass the virus to their partners through sex.
If you test negative, there are ways to stay protected. You can talk to your doctor about PrEP, a daily pill or shot for people at risk of getting HIV, or PEP, a medicine you can take within 72 hours after a possible exposure.
If you’re pregnant, it’s important to get tested. If you have HIV, starting treatment early during pregnancy and continuing after birth along with giving your baby medicine can greatly lower the chance of passing HIV to your baby. The medicine will also support your health during and after pregnancy.
HIV self-tests are also available. These let you test yourself at home or in a private place. You can buy a kit at a pharmacy or online, or your doctor might be able to help you get one. Some health centers and community groups also give them out at low cost or for free.
How to prevent it
If someone has had contact with a person who has HIV, the appropriate steps depend on the type of contact.
Casual Contact (hugging, shaking hands, sharing utensils, etc.) No action needed, HIV is not transmitted through casual contact.
Sexual Contact or Exposure to Blood (e.g., unprotected sex, needlestick injury):
Immediately wash the area with soap and water (for skin exposure) or rinse mouth/eyes with clean water or saline if exposed there.
Seek medical attention immediately within 72 hours at the latest.
Ask for PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) a 28-day course of antiretroviral medication that can prevent HIV if started early.
If you’re unsure whether there was risk, talk to a healthcare provider immediately, they can help assess the situation and determine if PEP is necessary.
HIV is transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. Not through saliva, sweat, or skin contact. Prevention steps like condom use, PrEP(for ongoing protection), and safe needle practices are highly effective.
Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) play a crucial role in providing accessible healthcare coverage for Nigerians. However, despite their importance, many people remain unaware of how HMOs work and the benefits they offer.
In Nigeria, where access to quality healthcare is often a challenge, understanding health insurance schemes like HMOs is essential for individuals seeking to safeguard their health and manage medical expenses.
HMOs operate on the principle of prepaid health plans, where individuals or companies pay regular premiums in exchange for access to a network of healthcare providers. This model enables enrollees to receive treatment, consultations, and medical services at reduced rates.
However, while Health Maintenance Organization is the commonly used term in Nigeria and some other countries, it’s important to note that similar healthcare models exist across the globe, often under different names and structures.
How HMOs Operate
Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) are designed to provide affordable and accessible healthcare services to individuals and families.
They function by partnering with a network of healthcare providers, such as hospitals, clinics, and medical professionals, to deliver a wide range of medical services to their enrollees. The system is typically structured through prepaid health plans where individuals or employers pay a fixed premium in exchange for comprehensive healthcare coverage.
Capitation: HMOs pay healthcare providers a fixed amount for each enrolled member per period, regardless of how many times the member seeks care. This arrangement, known as capitation, incentivizes healthcare providers to offer preventive care and avoid unnecessary procedures.
Network of Healthcare Providers: HMOs in Nigeria have agreements with hospitals, clinics, doctors, and pharmacies. Subscribers can access healthcare services within this network at a discounted rate or without having to pay upfront, depending on the terms of their plan.
Comprehensive Coverage: HMOs in Nigeria offer various levels of health coverage, ranging from basic healthcare services to more comprehensive packages that include specialist consultations, surgeries, maternity care, and preventive healthcare.
Preventative Care and Health Screenings: A significant benefit of enrolling in an HMO is access to preventative services, such as regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings. These services aim to detect potential health issues early, which can lead to better health outcomes.
How Individuals Can Benefit from Enrolling in an HMO
Cost-Effective Healthcare: One of the main benefits of enrolling in an HMO is the reduction in out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. By paying a set monthly premium, individuals can access healthcare services without worrying about high medical bills, especially in cases of emergency or major illness.
Comprehensive Coverage: HMOs typically cover a wide range of health services, including hospitalization, surgeries, doctor consultations, maternity care, and prescription medications. Depending on the plan, it may also include coverage for dental and optical care.
Timely Access to Healthcare: With an HMO, individuals benefit from a more streamlined healthcare system. Many HMOs ensure faster service delivery by collaborating with healthcare providers in a set network, minimizing waiting times for appointments, treatments, and prescriptions.
Health Education and Preventative Services: Many HMOs offer wellness programs and health education initiatives to their members. These programs focus on promoting healthy lifestyles, managing chronic conditions, and preventing the onset of illnesses through regular check-ups and screenings.
Reduced Financial Stress: With an HMO, individuals no longer need to worry about unexpected medical costs. The prepaid nature of the plan allows for predictable health costs, helping individuals and families budget for their healthcare needs without sudden financial burdens.
Support for Employers and Their Employees: Companies often enroll their employees in group health insurance plans through HMOs, which can be a cost-effective way to ensure that employees receive healthcare coverage. This can increase employee satisfaction and reduce absenteeism due to health issues.
Enrolling in an HMO can be a smart move for individuals looking for affordable, accessible, and comprehensive healthcare. With its preventive care approach and extensive coverage options, an HMO provides peace of mind and financial security in the face of health challenges.
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