worldwide

SpaceX's Starlink faced a significant international outage recently due to an internal software failure, impacting tens of thousands of users—a rare disruption for Elon Musk’s burgeoning satellite internet service. Users across the United States and Europe began reporting issues around 7 PM Irish time, with Downdetector, a crowd-sourced outage tracker, noting as many as 61,000 reports from affected users. With over 6 million subscribers across approximately 140 countries, Starlink took to its X account to acknowledge the…

In an inspiring discussion at the Global Commodity Insights Conference on West African Refined Fuel Markets, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, founder and chairman of the Dangote Group, shared groundbreaking news that is bound to reshape perceptions of Nigeria's role in the global energy market. Organized by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) in collaboration with S&P Global Insights, this conference spotlighted exciting developments in Nigeria's refining capabilities.…

U.S. Imposes 3.5% Tax on Foreign Remittances, Sparking Global Concern WASHINGTON—In a significant policy shift, the United States has introduced a 3.5% tax on international money transfers sent by non-citizens. This decision is expected to deeply impact countless families worldwide who depend on these remittances for essential needs like food, education, and healthcare. Imagine the countless conversations, punctuated by sighs and silent heartaches, and you begin to fathom the change's profound human cost. The measure,…

Taoiseach Micheál Martin recently announced a significant commitment of €21.6 million in Irish funding to Gavi, the global vaccine alliance. This pledge was made during a vital global summit aimed at generating at least $9 billion (€7.8 billion) to bolster Gavi's efforts. Gavi plays a critical role in providing access to vaccines that protect the world's most vulnerable children from disease. Looking ahead to 2026-2030, Gavi has set ambitious goals: to immunise an additional 500 million children, save over eight million…

The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, has recently issued a stark warning: mpox remains a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This designation underlines the potential global threat posed by the disease, prompting urgent attention and action across nations. Dr. Ghebreyesus highlighted a troubling trend: an increase in mpox cases, particularly alarming is the recent spike in West Africa. “There is likely undetected transmission in countries beyond the…

The digital landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation, particularly in Africa, where innovation is blossoming in unexpected yet inspiring ways. According to the 2025 Global Tech Ecosystem Index compiled by Dealroom.co, three cities—Lagos, Johannesburg, and Kampala—have emerged as front-runners among the fastest-growing tech hubs globally. This recognition is not just a spotlight on these cities; it's a powerful indication of Africa's burgeoning influence in the international technology arena. Leading…

As Catholics around the globe enter Holy Week, they engage in poignant processions and reenactments that reflect on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, a powerful ritual that brings communities together in reflection and reverence. In Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, Poland, thousands gather each year for the beloved reenactment of the Way of the Cross. This event features actors portraying key figures, including Jesus and Roman soldiers, guiding participants through a solemn journey. Attendees carry a wooden cross, stopping to pray at…

US Government Grants Tariff Exclusions on Electronics The US government has recently announced tariff exclusions for smartphones, computers, and other electronics primarily imported from China. This decision spares these products from the steep 125% reciprocal duties that were previously imposed by President Donald Trump. In a notification to shippers, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency has published a list of tariff codes that will now be exempt from these duties, a move that some view as a…

In a world where the cost of travel can sometimes feel like an insurmountable barrier, the release of Skytrax's latest ranking for the world's best low-cost airlines in 2024 comes as a breath of fresh air. It celebrates those carriers that manage to strike the elusive balance between affordability and customer satisfaction, a feat many have attempted but few truly master. Leading the charge, once more, is Malaysia's very own AirAsia. This airline has consistently set the standard in the budget travel category,…

A plane ascends gracefully into the sky, hovering momentarily over a road sign near London's bustling Heathrow Airport – a sight captured on June 5, 2018, by the lens of Kirsty Wigglesworth for the Associated Press. This picturesque scene now sharply contrasts with the unfolding chaos at the United Kingdom's premier airport. As of today, Heathrow has faced an unexpected yet formidable challenge: a complete shutdown that will last until midnight on Friday, owing to a crippling power outage. This disruption undoubtedly throws…