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Africans Rising mission to Togo experiences clampdown

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Africans Rising Logo 1A pan-African delegation of activists on a fact-finding mission to Togo has found out the extent of the ongoing state clampdown on pro-democracy protests. Just days after arriving and meeting with local civil society groups on the ground in mid- October, the three-person delegation were detained by police and had their phones, laptops and passports confiscated, while local groups were interrogated about the meetings. Widespread pro-democracy protests erupted across Togo, and in cities in neighbouring countries and Europe, in August. Led by the political opposition, protesters are demanding an end to the country’s 50-year ruling dynasty. They are calling for constitutional reforms, including the introduction of two-term limits for president. President Faure Gnassingbe, already in his third term, has been in power since 2005, when he took the reigns after the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema who ruled Togo for 38 years. As part of Africans Rising solidarity with social movements and civil society groups, engaged in struggles for justice, peace and dignity, a delegation from African Rising embarked on a fact-finding mission to Togo on Monday, 9 October 2017. The purpose of this mission was to better understand the dynamics of the public protests and to explore ways to play a constructive role in efforts to secure lasting, peaceful and just resolutions to the political crisis facing the country. To that end, the delegation prepared to meet with representatives of government, civil society organisations (CSOs) such as Front Citoyen Togo Debout (Togo Stand Up Citizen Front) and other stakeholders. A 6-hour road journey to the north, where the Togolese army has been accused of killing, torturing and forcing protesters to flee to Ghana. The delegation was made up of Gambian activist and Africans Rising coordinator Muhammed Lamin Saidykhan and activists Rohkaya Dieye and, Chantal Nare from Senegal and Burkina Faso respectively, with local support from local civil society advocate Kevin Soncy on the ground. After arriving in Lome on October 9, and meeting with prominent grassroots movement Front Citoyen Togo Debut, the delegation took Security forces have been working to prevent peaceful demonstrations and rallies from taking place. On Friday, October 13, the Togo Police’s Serious Crimes Unit detained the Africans Rising delegation, confiscating their laptops and passports. The mission heard that the unit had begun questioning local CSOs about their meetings with the delegation. Despite interventions and appeals from various quarters, the authorities refused to return the team’s passports and communication devices while they were in the country. Said Muhammed Lamin Saidykhan, Africans Rising Coordinator: “The response of the authorities to our mission demonstrates the government’s intention to crush the peaceful voice of the people, in Togo and across Africa, calling for respect for democratic values and human rights.” The delegation was eventually handed back their passports and property as they prepared to leave Togo. However, in the light of the police actions, we remain concerned for the welfare of civil society members and organisations that engaged with the Africans Rising mission and call on the authorities to respect and protect the democratic right to freedom of association and assembly. Since then, efforts to violently crush the protest movement continued. On October 18, at least five people were killed after security forces opened fire on demonstrators in two days of protests in Sokode, where the Africans Rising mission had met grassroots organisations, and the capital, Lome. In other cities, police have fired teargas to break up demonstrations. Further protests are planned for this week. Africans Rising continues to urge the government to stop its violent suppression of peaceful, democratic protests and to engage its people in sincere dialogue to find lasting solutions to the crisis.]]>

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People & Lifestyle

Don’t Take Any Risk – Protect Your Car During Break-ins!

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With the crime rate rising daily, you must exercise caution and learn how to protect your car from burglars. It has been reported that more than 810,000 vehicles were stolen in 2023, which is a high number.

So, if you do not want to face a similar situation or become a victim of car theft, follow the simple steps we discuss.

1. Keep the doors and windows of the car locked

This is one of the simplest yet effective tricks to protect a car from theft—you must always lock the door and windows, even when you are not using the vehicle. Open windows attract thieves, who can easily access the car. A locksmith Portland Oregon, can customize locks for car windows.

2. Have access to the keys

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Always be careful when you have a car. Never leave the keys lying around, and always be cautious to avoid losing them. Always keep spare keys so you are kept in the car when you lose one. Be mindful of not storing the car key inside or outside the vehicle, as it makes it easier for thieves to steal it.

3. Choose a secure car parking

You must be careful when choosing secured car parking. Do more than park it anywhere. It can be dangerous. To ensure complete safety, park the car where it does not have public access, and you can invest in building your garage or renting a garage. When parking outside, you must select a well-lit space, never choose a remote area, and choose a spot with CCTV camera access or any other security device.

4. Never keep valuables inside the car

If you keep valuables in the car, thieves can be tempted to break into or steal them. Valuables, including your purse, any expensive buy, or luggage, are easily visible in the vehicles. Even grocery bags can be enough to attract burglars, as they signal that there are more items inside the car. You can use a cargo cover based on your vehicle’s model.

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5. Activate the car alarm

Most advanced cars have a built-in alarm system that triggers when anybody tries to open the car door. You must activate this alarm whenever you leave the car in the parking lot or garage. With just one intruding attempt to open the car, the alarm activates with a loud noise, which deters the thief. However, if your vehicle lacks one such alarm, you can buy a car alarm from the market and install it to keep it safe. These alarms are available in multiple options, allowing you to choose from various models and prices.

Summing it up

If you live in a safe location, then simple steps are enough; however, to maintain extra protection, install a few devices to prevent thieves, such as a vehicle immobilizer and steering wheel lock to discourage thieves. You can get help from a professional locksmith Gresham Oregon, to protect your car without any inconvenience. Find out who the leading professionals are and keep their contact details on your phone.

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The Psychological Impact of Colors and Graphics on Online Gambling Behavior

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If you are familiar with casinos, you already know how colorful they are. The physical ones are filled with bright buttons, colorful chips, and neon lights. Their online counterparts are no exceptions.

Online gaming and casino apps and sites have kept up with the trend, and you can see that in any such platform. Like just try the Betway Zambia login, and you will see what I am talking about. Today, we will take a vibrant ride learning how the colors and graphics can impact the games and gaming behaviors.

  1. How Colors and Graphics Impact Psychotically Impact the Online Gambling Behaviors of the Users

The web design behind online casinos depends on various factors that can psychologically affect gamers. This includes colors, sounds effects and music, bonuses and rewards, and even user interface. 

Now, let’s look at the role of colors and how various shades can impact the user’s psychology.

1.1) The Classic Red and Green

The bright reds and greens are undoubtedly the first shades that come to your mind when you hear the word ‘casino.’ Primarily associated with cards, pools, and roulettes, these hues give players the casino vibes.

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While red is linked with risk-taking, the greens are related to money and winnings. Both attract the players and make them excited for the games.

1.2) Happy Yellow and Orange

The happy shade of yellow boosts your dopamine, while orange demands attention. Combining them reminds us of the buzzing environment of casinos and the excitement of playing the games and placing bets. This makes the players more eager and excited to play.

1.3) Black and Gold for the Royalties

The classy black and shiny gold background symbolizes special features and quality. These are particularly hit among the rich and loyal VIP customers and reward them with luxury gifts and rewards.

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1.4) A Touch of Blue for Trust

Finally, safe and trusted online casinos try to encourage faith and trust in users by using calm shades of blue. 

Especially for the navigational keys, the cool hues make you feel that each click is safe. It promotes the most crucial element of building successful user relations – trust.

  1. The Role of Graphics 

Along with the rainbow of shades, visual graphics also enhance the gaming experience to a vast extent. These can be done with:

  • Signs, symbols, and icons
  • Animations 
  • Dynamic visuals

The flashing icons, spinning reels, and entertaining animations make games enjoyable.

However, you must remember that the best application of colors and graphics is with moderation and subtlety. The key is to find the balance. The graphics should excite the gamers but never overwhelm them. So, it has to be done correctly and with much care. That way, the gaming experience can become much more than slots, spins, and wins – it transforms into a real adventure!

The design behind online casinos and other gaming sites is an intricate combination of complex psychology, advancing tech, and unique creativity. 

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With the continuous evolution of technology and ingenious creative trends, it is equally important to focus on the psychology of gaming and how graphics can affect it. Along with cool sound effects, easy navigation, and attractive rewards, the proper application of colors and graphics can positively impact the gaming behaviors of the users.

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Met Gala 2024: See fashion highlights and best looks

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The Met Gala’s red carpet never fails to deliver unforgettable moments in celebrity fashion, and this year’s event in New York City, themed “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” was no exception. (more…)

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Social Trends: Elite Prom Night: Ugandan High Schoolers Arrive in Choppers & Supercars

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Entebbe, Uganda – Elite High School’s prom night showcased opulence as students arrived in helicopters, Tesla cars, Mercedes-Benz, and Lamborghini, sparking social media buzz and discussions on the source of such wealth in a developing country.

Elite High School typically attracts attention from a wide range of people due to their extravagant Prom parties. The 2024 Prom party followed suit and garnered attention from government officials. On May 4th, a Saturday, students were eager to attend their Prom, which occurs before candidates start their final exams.

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Most students arrived dressed in their best attire, while some even hired luxurious cars. One student arrived in a helicopter with his date. After getting out of the helicopter, they were escorted into a luxurious car that transported them to the Prom venue.

According to an interview with our presenters, Pam Malaika, and MC Ollo, sources revealed that the helicopter was hired from Bar Aviation at $1200 (approximately Ugandan Shillings 4.5 million), while the car, a V8 2022 Model, was hired for 6 hours at 3 million Ugandan Shillings.

Minister John Muyingo, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the Prom trends, stating, “Are these things happening in Uganda? Where are we going? Money is a scarce resource; it shouldn’t be given out and spent like that.

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Social Trends: Ghana’s ‘Beans’ Dilemma: Prices Surge to 50 Cedis

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gari and beans

Ghanaians have taken to social media to express their disbelief and frustration over the recent surge in bean prices, with some reporting costs as high as 50 Ghanaian cedis for a single serving.

The conversation, filled with humor and sarcasm, has highlighted the broader issue of the rising cost of living in Ghana, including the increased prices of other staples such as gari and plantain.

Read Also: Several uprooted trees cause damage to properties in parts of Accra after downpour

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Despite the serious underlying issue, the posts have provided a light-hearted take on a challenging situation.

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Telecel Cash Now Available as a Payment Option on Google Play in Ghana

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Telecel Mobile Financial Services Ltd, operators of Telecel Cash, in partnership with Cellulant, a leading technology company, has announced the availability of Telecel Cash as a convenient payment method for Google Play users in Ghana. This integration enables Telecel Cash customers to seamlessly purchase apps and services directly from Google Play, enhancing their digital experience.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to expand payment options and improve transaction ease for Google Play users, especially in regions where the use of traditional credit cards is uncommon. By incorporating Telecel Cash, Telecel Ghana and Cellulant are providing a seamless, secure, and convenient payment method tailored to the needs of the Ghanaian market.

Richard Gesimba, Vice President, Cellulant Checkout Business Unit, highlighted the significance of the collaboration. “Our partnership with Telecel Ghana aims to innovate and deliver payment solutions that address the evolving needs of African consumers. This integration makes it easier for them to access a world of apps and content on Google Play without traditional banking facilities.” He noted.

Philip Amoateng, Director for Telecel Cash, emphasized the benefits for customers.  “The inclusion of Telecel Cash as a payment option on Google Play significantly enhances our service offerings. It offers our customers a straightforward and secure way to enjoy all the features and capabilities that Google Play has to offer. We are committed to enhancing our customers’ digital experiences and ensuring they can access global digital content with ease.”, he added.

Google Play, a digital distribution service operated and developed by Google, is the official app store for the Android operating system. It allows users to browse and download applications developed with the Android software development kit and published through Google.

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The availability of Telecel Cash as a payment method on Google Play is expected to boost the platform’s usage in Ghana, where mobile money has become a dominant force in financial transactions.

This also demonstrates Telecel Ghana’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and expanding digital accessibility.

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