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Showing posts from May 7, 2024

São Tomé and Príncipe demand compensation from Portugal

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São Tomé and Príncipe, nestled in the Gulf of Guinea off the West African coast, have recently embarked on a significant endeavor by demanding compensation from Portugal for the historical damage inflicted during the colonial era. The islands' tumultuous past is deeply intertwined with the transatlantic slave trade, as they serve as pivotal hubs where West Africans were forcibly gathered and shipped to work on Portuguese plantations, particularly in Brazil. Despite the fertile volcanic soil that allowed for lucrative crop cultivation, the islands' history is marred by the brutality of slavery and the toll of tropical diseases on European settlers. Last week, Portugal's President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa publicly acknowledged his country's responsibility for crimes committed during the slave trade and colonial era, signaling a newfound willingness to confront historical injustices. Although he didn't explicitly mention slavery, his remarks underscored the need for Por...

SOUTH AFRICA; George's Building Collapse Leaves Lives Hanging in the Balanc

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In the coastal city of George, tragedy struck as a five-story building, still in the process of construction, collapsed, claiming the lives of at least five individuals. In the aftermath, approximately 50 people found themselves trapped beneath the rubble, their fates uncertain amidst the chaos that ensued. Despite the immense challenges posed by the collapsed structure, rescue teams have been unwavering in their efforts to locate and aid survivors buried within the debris. Mirroring rays of hope amidst the devastation, some trapped individuals have managed to establish contact with rescuers, amplifying the urgency and determination of the ongoing rescue operation. With the priority set on the swift and safe extraction of those still trapped, rescue efforts are expected to extend throughout the day. Following the meticulous process of lifting different floors, rescuers aim to leave no stone unturned in their mission to save lives. As investigations into the cause of the collapse unfold...