Latest news with #Kasai
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
In the DRC, the ADB is accelerating the transformation of infrastructure and access to basic social services
ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast -- Roads in Kenge, Kikwit, Tshikapa, Kamuensha, and Mbuji-Mayi have been completely rehabilitated, new stretches of road built, and urban roads modernized. Numerous examples of socioeconomic infrastructure have also benefited from the financial support of the African Development Bank Group ( helping to transform the daily lives of hundreds of thousands of Congolese. A multi-sectoral mission from the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the African Development Bank witnessed the impact of these investments during field visits to the five municipalities in western DRC between 5 and 19 May 2025. More specifically, the three projects, financed by the Bank, focus on rehabilitating road infrastructure, enhancing air safety, and improving access to basic social services. Health centres, hydraulic structures equipped with modern technology, provincial rural markets, schools, a refurbished runway in Mbuji-Mayi, and air safety equipment meeting international standards are just some of the successes the joint mission was able to witness. "The mission measured the concrete impact of the projects supported by the Bank in Kasai. From roads to social infrastructure and air safety, progress is visible and is transforming the lives of the population. We pay tribute to the work completed and remain committed to consolidating the gains achieved, in particular with the extension of the Mbuji-Mayi runway to make it a hub that meets international standards," commented Mohamed Coulibaly, Country Programme Manager in charge of the Bank Group's Office in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Opening a key route in the road network The first stage of the mission concerned the project to rehabilitate the Kinshasa/Ndjili-Batshamba section of national road no. 1. The project involves the rehabilitation of 622 kilometres of road between Kinshasa and Batshamba via Kenge and Kikwit, a key route in the Congolese road network. In the past, this strategic corridor was virtually impassable due to the advanced deterioration of the road surface and a series of sinkholes, and took several days or in some cases weeks, to drive along. Thanks to $68.57 million in funding from the African Development Bank, the work carried out now means the route can be travelled safely in less than a day. This improves connectivity between the capital and the provinces of Mai-Ndombe, Kwango, Kwilu and Kasaï. "In addition to asphalting the road, the Bank has financed the construction and equipping of schools, health centres, boreholes, rural markets, social reintegration centres, administrative buildings, a modern market and weigh stations along the route, as well as the rehabilitation of over 700 kilometres of rural roads," explains Jean Luemba, the RN1 project coordinator. The Bank has also provided substantial logistical support (vehicles and IT equipment) to the state structures involved in the projects. Ultimately, this initiative will benefit over 19 million people by facilitating access to markets, improving the availability of agricultural products and food security, and supporting mobility and economic activities. Significant progress in social infrastructure In terms of social infrastructure, the achievements of the second phase of the Project for the Reinforcement of Socioeconomic Infrastructure in the Central Region (PRISE II) are significant: most of the construction work on schools, health centres, public latrines, and rural markets has been completed or is nearing completion. The execution rate is estimated at 75%. As for the 41 schools under construction, most are ready for handover. The same applies to the 40 health centres, whose buildings have been completed. Public markets are also making good progress, with several structures already operational. In addition, the project has planned community awareness-raising and vocational training activities, including training young people in plumbing, promoting hygiene and local water governance. During the joint mission, the national authorities reiterated their willingness to broaden the scope of the "PRISE" project by integrating geophysical studies into the Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Programme, thus supporting the national ambition of universal coverage in this area. The project's aim is to reach over 870,000 direct beneficiaries in 10 provinces, by improving access rates to water, sanitation, health and education. Advanced airport infrastructure In the air transport sector, a visit to the second phase of the Priority Air Safety Project (PPSA2) revealed remarkable progress in the rehabilitation and extension of the Mbuji-Mayi runway. Around 85% of the 320-metre runway has already been completed. The new tarmac is 95% complete, while the ramp, service road and runway end safety areas (RESA) are 70 to 75% complete. Vital technical infrastructure such as the control tower, power plant, fire station, and lighting system are nearing completion. At Kisangani-Bangoka international airport, the aircraft movement areas, taxiways and tarmac have been completely rehabilitated, and two turn pads have been installed. In addition, six radio navigation systems (DVOR/DME) have been deployed at Goma, Mbuji-Mayi, Kindu, Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Mbandaka, enhancing the safety of domestic flights. Eight VHF radio channels have also been installed at several secondary airports to improve aeronautical communication. The upgrading of equipment, combined with capacity-building for technical staff, has reduced the number of air accidents in the DRC from an average of 10 to one a year. The project also includes training for the Régie des voies aériennes staff in the following areas: safety and air bases, maintenance techniques and project management for the Régie, and air transport inspectors for the Civil Aviation Authority. At the end of the visit, the mission underlined the technical quality of the work carried out, the commitment of the contractors and local ownership. In Tshikapa, a local resident declared: "Tshikapa today is the African Development Bank!", testifying to the visibility and tangible impact of the projects on the daily lives of the local population. These results also illustrate the importance of close coordination between the Bank, the Congolese government and technical and financial partners, including the European Union and the World Bank, which were also involved in the construction of certain sections of the RN1. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB). About the African Development Bank Group: The African Development Bank Group is Africa's leading development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). Represented in 41 African countries, with a field office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and social progress of its 54 regional member states. For further information: SOURCE African Development Bank Group (AfDB)
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the African Development Bank is accelerating the transformation of infrastructure and access to basic social services
Roads in Kenge, Kikwit, Tshikapa, Kamuensha, and Mbuji-Mayi have been completely rehabilitated, new stretches of road built, and urban roads modernized. Numerous examples of socioeconomic infrastructure have also benefited from the financial support of the African Development Bank Group ( helping to transform the daily lives of hundreds of thousands of Congolese. A multi-sectoral mission from the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the African Development Bank witnessed the impact of these investments during field visits to the five municipalities in western DRC between 5 and 19 May 2025. More specifically, the three projects, financed by the Bank, focus on rehabilitating road infrastructure, enhancing air safety, and improving access to basic social services. Health centres, hydraulic structures equipped with modern technology, provincial rural markets, schools, a refurbished runway in Mbuji-Mayi, and air safety equipment meeting international standards are just some of the successes the joint mission was able to witness. "The mission measured the concrete impact of the projects supported by the Bank in Kasai. From roads to social infrastructure and air safety, progress is visible and is transforming the lives of the population. We pay tribute to the work completed and remain committed to consolidating the gains achieved, in particular with the extension of the Mbuji-Mayi runway to make it a hub that meets international standards," commented Mohamed Coulibaly, Country Programme Manager in charge of the Bank Group's Office in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Opening a key route in the road network The first stage of the mission concerned the project to rehabilitate the Kinshasa/Ndjili-Batshamba section of national road no. 1. The project involves the rehabilitation of 622 kilometres of road between Kinshasa and Batshamba via Kenge and Kikwit, a key route in the Congolese road network. In the past, this strategic corridor was virtually impassable due to the advanced deterioration of the road surface and a series of sinkholes, and took several days or in some cases weeks, to drive along. Thanks to $68.57 million in funding from the African Development Bank, the work carried out now means the route can be travelled safely in less than a day. This improves connectivity between the capital and the provinces of Mai-Ndombe, Kwango, Kwilu and Kasaï. "In addition to asphalting the road, the Bank has financed the construction and equipping of schools, health centres, boreholes, rural markets, social reintegration centres, administrative buildings, a modern market and weigh stations along the route, as well as the rehabilitation of over 700 kilometres of rural roads," explains Jean Luemba, the RN1 project coordinator. The Bank has also provided substantial logistical support (vehicles and IT equipment) to the state structures involved in the projects. Ultimately, this initiative will benefit over 19 million people by facilitating access to markets, improving the availability of agricultural products and food security, and supporting mobility and economic activities. Significant progress in social infrastructure In terms of social infrastructure, the achievements of the second phase of the Project for the Reinforcement of Socioeconomic Infrastructure in the Central Region (PRISE II) are significant: most of the construction work on schools, health centres, public latrines, and rural markets has been completed or is nearing completion. The execution rate is estimated at 75%. As for the 41 schools under construction, most are ready for handover. The same applies to the 40 health centres, whose buildings have been completed. Public markets are also making good progress, with several structures already operational. In addition, the project has planned community awareness-raising and vocational training activities, including training young people in plumbing, promoting hygiene and local water governance. During the joint mission, the national authorities reiterated their willingness to broaden the scope of the "PRISE" project by integrating geophysical studies into the Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Programme, thus supporting the national ambition of universal coverage in this area. The project's aim is to reach over 870,000 direct beneficiaries in 10 provinces, by improving access rates to water, sanitation, health and education. Advanced airport infrastructure In the air transport sector, a visit to the second phase of the Priority Air Safety Project (PPSA2) revealed remarkable progress in the rehabilitation and extension of the Mbuji-Mayi runway. Around 85% of the 320-metre runway has already been completed. The new tarmac is 95% complete, while the ramp, service road and runway end safety areas (RESA) are 70 to 75% complete. Vital technical infrastructure such as the control tower, power plant, fire station, and lighting system are nearing completion. At Kisangani-Bangoka international airport, the aircraft movement areas, taxiways and tarmac have been completely rehabilitated, and two turn pads have been installed. In addition, six radio navigation systems (DVOR/DME) have been deployed at Goma, Mbuji-Mayi, Kindu, Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Mbandaka, enhancing the safety of domestic flights. Eight VHF radio channels have also been installed at several secondary airports to improve aeronautical communication. The upgrading of equipment, combined with capacity-building for technical staff, has reduced the number of air accidents in the DRC from an average of 10 to one a year. The project also includes training for the Régie des voies aériennes staff in the following areas: safety and air bases, maintenance techniques and project management for the Régie, and air transport inspectors for the Civil Aviation Authority. At the end of the visit, the mission underlined the technical quality of the work carried out, the commitment of the contractors and local ownership. In Tshikapa, a local resident declared: "Tshikapa today is the African Development Bank!", testifying to the visibility and tangible impact of the projects on the daily lives of the local population. These results also illustrate the importance of close coordination between the Bank, the Congolese government and technical and financial partners, including the European Union and the World Bank, which were also involved in the construction of certain sections of the RN1. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Daily Mail
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
BREAKING NEWS Ex-Disney star Skai Jackson 'choked' by ex as she details shocking abuse claims in restraining order
Hollywood actress Skai Jackson has made some heartbreaking claims against baby daddy Deondre Burgin - who is known online as Yerkky Yerkky - in her restraining order. The former Disney actress has claimed that Burgin, with whom she shares a newborn child, tried to choke her on Mother's day, according to TMZ. And the Bunk'd standout also alleged that Deondre grabbed her by her hair, slammed her head against a car window and punched her in the face. She had their son Kasai, aged three months, in her arms during the attack, it was also claimed by the star in documents seen by the site. Jackson filed for a restraining order in L.A. County Superior Court as she fears for her life, it was also alleged. She has asked a judge to keep Burgin 100 yards away from her, their baby and her dog. Skai also wants him to attend a domestic violence treatment program, the site also stated. The former Disney actress has claimed that Burgin, with whom she shares a newborn child, tried to choke her on Mother's day, according to TMZ. And the Bunk'd standout also alleged that Deondre grabbed her by her hair, slammed her head against a car window and punched her in the face Skai is seeking a legal child support agreement and for him to pay all her legal fees, the site claimed the documents read. The violence was nothing new, the actress claimed, as she added he has been frightening her for more than a year. The TV star also alleged that he abused her weekly during a six-month period in 2024. That included choking and scratching her and slamming her head into a wall, she claimed in her paperwork. And he allegedly damaged her iPhone and a television. While she was pregnant, Skai claims Burgin demanded she drink bleach to 'kill the unborn child,' the site added. And he 'held her at knifepoint as he walked her to her car and threatened to stab her in the stomach if she yelled for help,' the site claimed. He then punched through a bathroom door, slammed her against a wall and 'choked me until I could not breathe' and she she has video to prove it, she alleged in her documents. He also has guns, she claimed: three firearms, including a rifle. Last year Jackson was in hot water herself when she was arrested on suspicion of domestic battery, but not charged. In September it was revealed that the Los Angeles District Attorney's office declined to file charges and dropped the case against her. She was previously arrested on August 8 at Universal Studios CityWalk in Los Angeles, California after an alleged altercation with her boyfriend. Police responded to a call from the theme park after security personnel detained Jackson for allegedly pushing her boyfriend. Deputies reviewed the surveillance footage of the alleged incident. At the time, her representative told People: 'Skai is relieved that the investigation revealed that this was nothing more than a misunderstanding.' 'We appreciate that the DA determined very quickly that there should be no charges of any kind and Skai looks forward to putting this behind her,' her rep continued. At the time of her arrest, law enforcement sources told TMZ she told the arresting officers she was 'happily engaged and expecting a baby.' The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office informed the outlet that the case will not go forward due to Jackson not having any criminal history. The alleged victim, her boyfriend, dis not have any injuries and had also not been cooperating with prosecutors. While she was pregnant, Skai claims Burgin demanded she drink bleach to 'kill the unborn child,' the site added. And he 'held her at knifepoint as he walked her to her car and threatened to stab her in the stomach if she yelled for help,' the site claimed Burgin was arrested in April at a gas station in Kentucky on April 17 after a 'police officer recognized him from the National Crime Information Center database.' He is reportedly still being held on a $25,000 bond. Law enforcement in Hamilton County had a 'warrant out for his arrest for failing to display a license plate on his vehicle in March' and failing to show up for his court date. This comes less than three months after he served a 90-day sentence for violating his parole from an earlier theft and weapon possession case as a juvenile at the Hamilton County Jail. Burgin was behind bars when Jackson gave birth to their baby boy, Kasai, in January 2025. In November, one day after Jackson, revealed she was expecting, Burgin was taken into custody in Cincinnati, Ohio after a botched foot chase with officers. At the time, police said in a report, reviewed by TMZ, that Burgin initially fled the scene when they approached him over a juvenile parole violation warrant. Burgin tripped, fell and suffered a cut on his cheek in the encounter, according to the outlet, after which police placed him in handcuffs. Burgin was released after receiving a citation for misdemeanor obstruction of official business, police sources told the outlet. Jackson is best known for her roles on Disney Channel sitcom Jessie and spin-off Bunk'd, both of which ended in 2018. A month after becoming a first-time mom, Jackson gushed to Jackson that she felt 'so amazing.' 'I love being a new mom. It's just so exciting. So exciting,' she said at the 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors. 'I'm here tonight, I'm already missing my baby. But it's been a great month with my new little one.' She also raved about her 'amazing support' system that help her out when Kasai gives her a 'fun for' her money. 'I feel like now I can just do anything,' she added. 'I feel like being a mom and juggling everything probably has to be one of the hardest jobs, but it's such a rewarding job because I'm doing it for him at the end of the day.' Overall, motherhood has taught her that she can 'handle whatever at this point.' Previously, she told People that she was raised by a single mom who 'always taught' her to 'stand up' for herself and 'fight for what is right.' 'I thank her for that because without her, I probably wouldn't have a lot of the confidence that I do now,' she told the outlet in 2023.
Hindustan Times
11-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Doctor says these common symptoms could mean serious liver problem in kids
The liver plays an important role in your child's health. It is responsible for performing various functions, including digestion, storing energy, filtering toxins and keeping the body clean from harmful substances. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Kalpesh Patil, Consultant Neonatal, Pediatric Surgeon and Pediatric Urologist at Ankura Hospital for Women and Child in Pune, shared, 'While liver problems are common in adults, children also face liver-related issues. Various factors can contribute to liver disorders in children. Early detection can help manage or even sometimes reverse with the help of proper care.' According to Dr Kalpesh Patil, liver disorders in children can manifest in various ways. Keep an eye out for: Dr Kalpesh Patil said, 'Biliary atresia, Hepatitis (A, B, C, D), liver tumours, metabolic disorders (Wilson's disease), and Fatty liver disease are commonly seen in children and demand timely attention without any delay. Prompt intervention can improve the quality of life of children.' Dr Kalpesh Patil advised, 'Consult a pediatrician or pediatric surgeon for liver issues before it gets delayed. To tackle liver disorders in children, the doctor will prescribe medication to manage symptoms, antiviral therapy for hepatitis, dietary changes, and regular monitoring of liver function will be essential for the child.' He added, 'The surgical treatment will also be advised to the child and includes liver transplantation, surgery for biliary atresia (Kasai procedure) and tumor removal. Remember, consulting a Pediatric Surgeon can help to diagnose and treat liver disorders, provide guidance on treatment options, and perform surgical procedures to ensure the child can lead a healthy life.' Asserting that educating parents is important, Dr Kalpesh Patil said that as a parent, you play a vital role in your child's care and recommended some key takeaways: 1. Understand the diagnosis and treatment plan 2. Follow dietary recommendations 3. Monitor your child's symptoms and report changes 4. Attend follow-up appointments Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Los Angeles Times
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Skai Jackson of Disney Channel fame confirms arrival of her baby boy
Skai Jackson is a new mom! The Disney Channel and 'Dancing With the Stars' alumna confirmed Sunday that she had welcomed her first child, a baby named Kasai. Jackson, 22, posted a peek at her newborn on Instagram and Facebook, holding the infant's hands in her own as she seated the baby between her legs. They appeared to be wearing matching pajamas. The 'Jessie' and 'Bunk'd' star did not expose the baby's face in the photo, nor did she reveal the gender or other birth details to her 9.2 million followers on Instagram and 5.2 million on Facebook. A representative for Jackson did not immediately respond Monday to The Times' requests for comment. Jackson's mother Kiya Cole was among those to comment with well-wishes on the actor's post. Cole raised Jackson as a single parent and has said she would help her daughter navigate motherhood. On Sunday, Cole posted a baby photo of Jackson at the same age as Kasai and, with the use of a pronoun, revealed that Kasai is a baby boy. 'Kasai's mom,' wrote Cole on Instagram stories, 'At the same age he is now. Twinning.' In November, Jackson confirmed that she was expecting the baby with her boyfriend, whose identity she has not publicly revealed either. 'I'm thrilled to begin this new chapter in my life — embracing motherhood and diving into new acting projects. My heart is so full!' the actor told People at the time. Jackson confirmed her pregnancy three months after she was arrested on suspicion of domestic violence at Universal Studios Hollywood. She was arrested Aug. 9 after security personnel noticed her and her boyfriend allegedly getting into a physical altercation at the theme park, which is adjacent to Universal CityWalk. Both Jackson and her boyfriend denied reports of a physical altercation, according to TMZ, which reported at the time that Jackson was engaged and expecting their first child. The Los Angeles County district attorney's office declined to bring charges against Jackson, whose representative said at the time that the performer was 'relieved that the investigation revealed that this was nothing more than a misunderstanding.' Times staff writer Alexandra Del Rosario contributed to this report.
