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Daily Maverick
27-07-2025
- Politics
- Daily Maverick
Young Mozambicans are no longer waiting for the future — they are building it
This project – a living model of social transformation – redefines what it means to include young people. Could it be adapted and replicated in other African territories? In northern Mozambique – specifically in Cabo Delgado, Nampula and Niassa provinces – young people face a complex reality of exclusion, multidimensional poverty, structural unemployment and a profound erosion of trust between citizens and the state. Cabo Delgado has been affected by armed conflict since 2017. Non-state groups have launched attacks that have claimed thousands of lives, displaced more than one million people and devastated communities. The humanitarian crisis has deepened because of the weak presence of the state and unequal access to aid, fuelling feelings of abandonment and resentment. Simultaneously, the extraction of natural resources such as natural gas and rubies has exposed the tension between promises of development and the persistent exclusion of local populations. In areas like Montepuez and Palma, displaced communities and unemployed young people live alongside multimillion-dollar investments from which they rarely benefit. The consequences of this sociopolitical and economic fragmentation are visible in everyday life: inadequate education systems, a lack of public services, disempowered local governance structures and an economy that fails to provide decent jobs or promote inclusive growth. As a result, many young people are left disillusioned, navigating a precarious existence that fuels cycles of dependency, marginalisation and, in some cases, radicalisation. Many young people, cut off from education, healthcare and dignified work, have become easy targets for recruitment into armed groups, trafficking networks or exploitative labour. Others, driven by a sense of social invisibility, have turned to silence or forced migration. Women and girls in particular face compounded vulnerabilities, often excluded from public life and disproportionately affected by violence and poverty. It was in this context that the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (CDD), in partnership with the Institute for Social and Economic Studies and the MASC Foundation, and support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, launched more than a project – they built a living model of social transformation. A living theory shaped by territory This model emerged from a clear theory of change: to strengthen young people in three dimensions – personal capacity, collective voice and institutional influence. It stands on three practical pillars: youth empowerment and organisation; participatory, rights-based governance; and economic inclusion through cooperatives. The model recognises that real transformation begins with recognising the dignity, talents and knowledge of communities themselves. Rather than importing prepackaged solutions, it centres on mobilising local resources, facilitating dialogue and co-creating pathways for inclusive and participatory development. The CDD sees young Mozambicans not only as resilient, but as key actors capable of reshaping the social contract. Young people who were once excluded have become rights holders and protagonists of the present. In the first phase, youth hubs were created as spaces for training, dialogue and youth-led innovation. Young people received training in transformational leadership, sexual and reproductive rights, 21st-century skills and social entrepreneurship. These hubs served as safe spaces where critical thinking was encouraged and young people could imagine – and begin to build – alternative futures for themselves and their communities. In parallel, local authorities were trained in rights-based governance and encouraged to adopt inclusive practices. In the second phase, this empowerment became institutionalised through town hall meetings and policy dialogues, placing youngsters face-to-face with decision-makers. For many, it was the first time that local administrators sat at the same table as youth leaders, not in conflict, but in conversation. This shift towards deliberative democracy challenged top-down governance norms and gave birth to new modes of citizen engagement. Simultaneously, more than 40 youth-led community cooperatives were formed, inspired by principles of solidarity, economy and social enterprise. These platforms now promote economic autonomy and co-responsibility, allowing young people to generate income while contributing to the wellbeing of their communities. The cooperatives span agriculture, arts, services and ecotourism – often rooted in traditional knowledge but applying modern tools. In the third phase, the youth hubs evolved into legally recognised associations with local leadership, capacity for civic mobilisation and community dialogue, and the ability to submit proposals to international funders. Many have established partnerships with local governments, NGOs and even private actors – further embedding youth agency in the development architecture of their districts. Impacts that reshape the future The impact has been visible and profound: In local governance, there is greater openness, active listening and responsiveness. Local leaders are increasingly receptive to youth input and more accountable in their public functions. In youth organisation, mature leadership is emerging with a clear structure and institutional identity. These are not ad hoc movements but structured, autonomous organisations capable of shaping local agendas. In the political culture, young people are no longer viewed as threats but as strategic partners in development. This is particularly powerful in conflict-affected areas, where restoring trust and legitimacy is essential. This transformation is anchored in philosopher Axel Honneth's ethics of recognition: development is only possible when individuals are seen, heard and legitimised. A growing, rooted model The CDD model is not only sustainable, it is expanding organically through: Endogenous, replicable youth leadership that adapts to local realities; The institutionalisation of youth associations and cooperatives that act as permanent civic platforms; and The consolidation of the Transformational Leadership Academy as a regional centre for civic education and innovation. This architecture of change is not static – it evolves as young people continue to challenge assumptions, adapt to new realities and assert their place in public life. More than a project, this is a living laboratory of regenerative democracy, responding to a global crisis of trust in democratic institutions with listening, courage and rooted civic action. In Mozambique, young people are no longer waiting for the future – they are building it, one community, one initiative, one act of leadership at a time. Could this model be adapted and replicated in other African territories? Could an approach grounded in listening, belonging, organisation and co-responsibility help rebuild trust between young people and the state in regions marked by crisis? Certainly, no model can be transplanted wholesale. But what Mozambique offers is a blueprint – a possibility. A reminder that the most powerful transformations often begin with small acts of recognition and courage, scaled through collective vision and grassroots leadership. The answer is not final. But the Mozambican example offers a path that sees young people as the axis of social transformation and a regenerative force for fragile political systems. Perhaps this is, indeed, an African model for Africa's future. DM Professor Adriano Nuvunga is director of the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights in Mozambique and chairperson of the Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders Network. He leads the activities of the Mozambique Human Rights Defenders Network. This story first appeared in our weekly Daily Maverick 168 newspaper, which is available countrywide for R35.
Herald Malaysia
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Herald Malaysia
St Ignatius parish celebrates the joy of family love
The Church of St Ignatius (SIC) came alive with the spirit of unity and celebration for Family Month in May themed Family is a Community of Love. Jun 20, 2025 Performance by the catechism children PETALING JAYA: The Church of St Ignatius (SIC) came alive with the spirit of unity and celebration for Family Month in May themed Family is a Community of month-long celebration was a collaborative effort by various parish groups — the English and Mandarin Family Life, Catechetical, Youth Ministries, BECCOT, Bethany Counselling, and the Formation Team — reflecting the strength of faith in festivities kicked off with the launch of five core family values: enhancing communication; promoting harmony and reconciliation; deepening faith life; building connections and nurturing mutual respect; and cultivating strong family values. These messages, beautifully captured in printed quotes, were displayed at the Community Centre. Featured were reflections from Pope Francis, Pope Benedict XVI, Pope St John Paul II, St Teresa of Calcutta, Cardinal Celso Costantini (founder of the CDD), and several well-known public Saturday in May brought something special. On May 3, families attended insightful talks: Strengthening Family Communication by play therapist Juliana Tang (English) and Communication Detective by licensed counsellor Lily Wong Lai Fang (Mandarin). Through role plays, film clips, and interactive activities, families gained practical tools to communicate more May 10, Fr Philip Chua and Fr Stephen Ng, CDD led sessions in English and Mandarin respectively on The Joy of Love in the Family, focusing on family spirituality. Parishioners bonded over shared tea breaks, deepening the sense of of the most anticipated events was the Family Fun Day in FRIM on May 17. Held at the lush Kepong forest reserve, it drew nearly 200 parishioners. Laughter and cheer echoed through the trees as families joined in Jazzercise with Janet Ginibun and team, explored nature on a guided walk, and competed in lively 'back-to-school' telematches. Many brought their own picnic mats and tucked into delicious meals while enjoying one another's company. Even toddlers had their own special corner filled with soap bubbles and activities. Parish priest, Fr Thomas Koo, CDD and assistant parish priest Fr Martin Then, CDD, joined the fun, much to the delight of participants.'Keep it up! Kudos for putting so much heart into bringing joy to all, especially seniors and kids,' shared one grateful parent. 'It was a fantastic outing!'The month culminated in a vibrant indoor carnival, FamFest! Food, Fun, Fiesta, held on May 31 at the parish Community Centre. The day brimmed with energy — food and craft stalls, game booths, open mic sessions, and performances by the English, Mandarin-, Bahasa-, and Tamil-speaking communities. Catechism children came dressed in Laudato Si' inspired costumes crafted from recycled Youth Ministry put on an entertaining show with cultural dances, wushu demonstrations, songs, and band performances. Parishioners joined in spontaneous dancing, led by Fr Thomas himself, filling the hall with warmth and joy. The event closed with full hearts, new friendships, happy tummies, and arms full of the month, families deepened their communication, discovered joy in family love, engaged in friendly competition, and prayed together — especially the Rosary — for the sanctification of families. The Family Month concluded with a sunset Mass, a fitting end to a meaningful and memorable celebration. In his closing remarks, Fr Thomas shared, 'We give thanks to God for all the blessings He has bestowed on us this Family Month. Let us carry on as families filled with love for one another.' SIC Family Life Ministry
NZ Herald
05-06-2025
- Health
- NZ Herald
Rare disorders: Waikato toddler's journey to rare and severe CDD diagnosis
A 2-year-old Waikato girl was having around 30 seizures daily before being diagnosed with a rare condition, her mum said. Mila Smith, of Hamilton, has CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD), a severe developmental epileptic encephalopathy, caused by mutations in the CDKL5 gene. CDD leads to early-onset and drug-resistant seizures and
Jordan Times
04-05-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
Kingdom's corporate registrations rise by 13% in first third of 2025
A total of 2,372 new companies are registered, compared with 2,091 during the January-April in 2024 (Petra photo) AMMAN — New registered companies increased by 13 per cent during the first four months of 2025, compared with the same period in 2024, the Companies Control Department (CCD) said on Sunday. The CDD said that 2,372 new companies were registered in the January-April period of 2025, compared with 2,091 during the corresponding period of 2024, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. According to the CDD, the total registered capital during the same period exceeded JD66 million. Recording the highest number, a total of 1,723 limited liability companies (LLCs) were registered, constituting 72.6 per cent of the overall figure, with capital exceeding JD36 million. The data also recorded a 49 per cent drop in the number of company dissolutions and deregistration during the first third of the year, compared with 2024. A total of 376 companies were de-registered or dissolved, compared with 741 during the same period last year. The CCD figures revealed that capital increases surged by 518 per cent, against the same period in 2024, reaching around JD590 million, compared with around JD145 million in 2024. Meanwhile, 624 companies increased their capital by some JD617 million, while 97 others lowered their capital by JD79 million.
Khaleej Times
29-04-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Oxford-Harrington Rare Disease Centre appoints Majid Jafar to its advisory council
The Oxford-Harrington Rare Disease Centre ('OHC'), a partnership between the University of Oxford, UK and Harrington Discovery Institute at University Hospitals, Cleveland, Ohio, aimed at driving cutting-edge rare disease breakthroughs, has announced the appointment of Majid Jafar to its Advisory Council. The Advisory Council, led by former UK Prime Minister David Cameron, supports the OHC's mission to deliver new treatments for the nearly half a billion people affected by rare diseases worldwide. Council members are leaders of relevant industries and sectors, from different regions of the world who bring expertise, resources and networks towards the initial goal of developing 40 new drugs for rare diseases in the next 10 years. Jafar is a distinguished business leader serving as Vice-Chairman of the Crescent Group and CEO of Crescent Petroleum, based in the United Arab Emirates, and is the first person to be appointed to the Council from the GCC and Middle East, a region with over 30 million people affected by rare diseases. He is a prominent, global rare disease advocate and philanthropist with a strong commitment to driving positive social change in healthcare and education, with extensive networks and interests in business, investment and philanthropy in the US, Europe and the Middle East. Among his roles, Mr. Jafar is the co-founder, with his wife Lynn, of the Loulou Foundation, a private non-profit foundation dedicated to advancing science and treatments for CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD), a rare neurogenetic disorder that affects their eldest daughter, Alia. The Loulou Foundation has funded important research projects at leading universities and institutions in the US, Europe and Asia, with a total of over 60 projects at 45 different institutions. Jafar also sits on various non-profit boards including the Board of Fellows of Harvard Medical School, where he co-chairs the Discovery Council, and is a member of the Academy of the University of Pennsylvania and the Global Precision Medicine Council of the World Economic Forum, as well as co-chairing the campaign for Cambridge Children's Hospital in the UK. David Cameron, Chair of the OHC's Advisory Council, said: 'We are delighted to welcome Majid to the OHC Advisory Council. His extensive experience within the business and investment communities and in policy engagement - alongside his philanthropic efforts in education and healthcare - make him an invaluable addition to our team. Furthermore, as a parent of a child with a rare disease, Majid has a deep empathy with families in similar situations as they seek a diagnosis and treatment. We look forward to his contribution to the Council and to his support of the OHC as it continues its groundbreaking work in rare disease research and development of new treatments for patients worldwide.' Majid Jafar commented: 'I am honoured to join the Oxford-Harrington Rare Disease Centre Advisory Council. Supporting the development of innovative treatments for rare diseases is a cause close to my heart with my family's own experience deeply shaping my commitment to delivering urgently needed treatments to rare disease patients. I look forward to helping advance the OHC's mission by fostering key partnerships in new regions and sourcing philanthropic investment that can accelerate progress for the many patients in need.' Matthew Wood, Director and Chief Scientific Officer of the OHC, added: 'Majid brings a unique perspective to our Advisory Council, with his strong leadership background and dedication to advancing healthcare. His commitment to social impact, coupled with his ability to expand the OHC's reach into new regions, will be instrumental as we work towards delivering rare disease drugs in the coming years. We are thrilled to have him on board and look forward to his contributions to our mission.' Majid Jafar joins Lord Cameron (Chair of the OHC's Advisory Council and Former UK Prime Minister), Professor Sir John Bell (President, Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford, and former Regius Professor of Medicine at Oxford University), Baroness Nicola Blackwood (Chair of Genomics England and of Oxford University Innovation), John F. Crowley (President and CEO of the Biotechnology Innovation Association (BIO)), Ronald G. Harrington (a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, and co-founder of Harrington Discovery Institute), and Jonathan S. Stamler, MD (President and co-founder of Harrington Discovery Institute and Distinguished University Professor of Medicine), on the OHC Advisory Council.
