Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is being encouraged to implement deliberate economic policies aimed at creating dollar billionaires and enhancing its global economic influence. According to a new wealth report, the country currently has only one dollar billionaire and a limited number of high-net-worth individuals. The Africa Wealth Report 2023 indicates that Tanzania has 2,400 individuals with a net worth exceeding $1 million. Out of these, only six have assets above $100 million, while the country has just one billionaire despite being the second-largest economy in East Africa. Also read: 435 Tanzanians join the billionaires' club - The Citizen Tanzania While the number of millionaires has risen by 20 percent over the past decade, economists believe this figure could be much higher if the country had strategic policies to support fast-growing local investors capable of expanding into international markets. "The government could significantly boost some of our wealthy entrepreneurs by matching or even partially matching their capital. That alone could reduce our reliance on imports," said Dar es Salaam-based entrepreneur Amina Salum. Experts cite the United States and China as examples of countries that have used state support to create global economic powerhouses. In 2024 alone, the US government allocated over $180 billion in subsidies to domestic companies. Firms such as Boeing, Intel, Amazon and Tesla have benefited from subsidies, tax exemptions and government-backed loans to support research, manufacturing and exports. Such policies have enabled the US to remain a global tech leader, create millions of jobs and use multinational corporations as ambassadors of national influence. China, through institutions like the China Development Bank, has extended low-interest loans and subsidies to companies such as CCCC and China Railway Engineering Corporation, enabling them to execute infrastructure projects across Africa and Asia. Backed by their government, these companies have expanded aggressively, securing contracts in many countries, strengthening China’s global economic influence. Level playing field no longer enough Tanzania has long promoted a “level playing field” approach for all businesses. But analysts say this neutral policy risks holding back local firms with the potential to create wealth and export influence. "Tanzania needs a strategy to support businesses that have proven capacity to create jobs, grow exports and increase tax revenues," said Prof Abel Kinyondo, an economist at the University of Dar es Salaam. He said targeted support could include direct financial subsidies, time-limited tax relief to reduce operating costs and credit guarantees to help companies access large-scale capital. "Strategic preferential treatment works. Ethiopia is already applying it in aviation. Their national airline is now among the best in Africa because it enjoys specific government support," he said. Prof Kinyondo emphasized the need for strong oversight and transparency, saying only experienced, high-performing entrepreneurs should be considered for such support. Another economist, Prof Dickson Pastory of the College of Business Education, said empowering local investors can also enhance national security by reducing dependency on external suppliers for essential goods. "For crucial sectors, supporting domestic production guarantees supply. It also improves Tanzania’s competitiveness in the global economy," he said. While financial subsidies may be challenging for developing countries, Prof Pastory said tax exemptions could achieve similar results. "Reducing tax burdens allows businesses to expand and create more jobs, ultimately boosting national GDP," he noted. BoT support mechanisms already in place The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has on several occasions expressed willingness to support local businesses through the Export Credit Guarantee Scheme (ECGS) and the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme (SME-CGS). These aim to help private-sector players with bankable projects access financing even when they lack sufficient collateral. In June 2023, at the height of the dollar shortage, BoT governor Emmanuel Tutuba said the central bank had taken steps to encourage domestic production and promote import substitution. He said the BoT board had visited several strategic sites to assess opportunities to boost exports and foreign exchange earnings. "We wanted to know what investors need to scale up production and exports, especially in terms of financial support." Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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How Tanzania Can Forge Homegrown Dollar Billionaires
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is being encouraged to implement deliberate economic policies aimed at creating dollar billionaires and enhancing its global economic influence. According to a new wealth report, the country currently has only one dollar billionaire and a limited number of high-net-worth individuals. The Africa Wealth Report 2023 indicates that Tanzania has 2,400 individuals with a net worth exceeding $1 million. Out of these, only six have assets above $100 million, while the country has just one billionaire despite being the second-largest economy in East Africa. Also read: 435 Tanzanians join the billionaires' club - The Citizen Tanzania While the number of millionaires has risen by 20 percent over the past decade, economists believe this figure could be much higher if the country had strategic policies to support fast-growing local investors capable of expanding into international markets. "The government could significantly boost some of our wealthy entrepreneurs by matching or even partially matching their capital. That alone could reduce our reliance on imports," said Dar es Salaam-based entrepreneur Amina Salum. Experts cite the United States and China as examples of countries that have used state support to create global economic powerhouses. In 2024 alone, the US government allocated over $180 billion in subsidies to domestic companies. Firms such as Boeing, Intel, Amazon and Tesla have benefited from subsidies, tax exemptions and government-backed loans to support research, manufacturing and exports. Such policies have enabled the US to remain a global tech leader, create millions of jobs and use multinational corporations as ambassadors of national influence. China, through institutions like the China Development Bank, has extended low-interest loans and subsidies to companies such as CCCC and China Railway Engineering Corporation, enabling them to execute infrastructure projects across Africa and Asia. Backed by their government, these companies have expanded aggressively, securing contracts in many countries, strengthening China’s global economic influence. Level playing field no longer enough Tanzania has long promoted a “level playing field” approach for all businesses. But analysts say this neutral policy risks holding back local firms with the potential to create wealth and export influence. "Tanzania needs a strategy to support businesses that have proven capacity to create jobs, grow exports and increase tax revenues," said Prof Abel Kinyondo, an economist at the University of Dar es Salaam. He said targeted support could include direct financial subsidies, time-limited tax relief to reduce operating costs and credit guarantees to help companies access large-scale capital. "Strategic preferential treatment works. Ethiopia is already applying it in aviation. Their national airline is now among the best in Africa because it enjoys specific government support," he said. Prof Kinyondo emphasized the need for strong oversight and transparency, saying only experienced, high-performing entrepreneurs should be considered for such support. Another economist, Prof Dickson Pastory of the College of Business Education, said empowering local investors can also enhance national security by reducing dependency on external suppliers for essential goods. "For crucial sectors, supporting domestic production guarantees supply. It also improves Tanzania’s competitiveness in the global economy," he said. While financial subsidies may be challenging for developing countries, Prof Pastory said tax exemptions could achieve similar results. "Reducing tax burdens allows businesses to expand and create more jobs, ultimately boosting national GDP," he noted. BoT support mechanisms already in place The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has on several occasions expressed willingness to support local businesses through the Export Credit Guarantee Scheme (ECGS) and the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme (SME-CGS). These aim to help private-sector players with bankable projects access financing even when they lack sufficient collateral. In June 2023, at the height of the dollar shortage, BoT governor Emmanuel Tutuba said the central bank had taken steps to encourage domestic production and promote import substitution. He said the BoT board had visited several strategic sites to assess opportunities to boost exports and foreign exchange earnings. "We wanted to know what investors need to scale up production and exports, especially in terms of financial support." Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).Chinese AI Stocks Rise on DeepSeek Momentum as Beijing Seeks Growth Boost
Artificial intelligence is set to become "a key driver for China's modernization," according to Huachuang Securities, aligning with the positive perspective of Morgan Stanley, UBS, and other institutions.Chinese artificial intelligence (AI)Stocks are anticipated to resist a slowdown in various sectors, as the mainland utilizes technology to enhance business efficiency and stimulate economic recovery, as per investors and analysts.
Companies including Meituan and Xiaomiwere expected to gain from an influx of AI adoption that would reshape business strategies, as per Morgan Stanley, with investors seeking new success stories followingDeepSeek's breakthroughIn the field of generative AI technology, China Asset Management, one of the largest mutual fund companies on the mainland, stated last month that the nation's AI implementation—currently at a 5 percent adoption rate—is poised for rapid expansion, akin to the growth of personal computers in the 1980s.
"Artificial intelligence is likely to serve as a major force behind China's modernization," stated Yao Pei, an analyst from Huachuang Securities, in a report released this month. "There are numerous factors driving AI development, and it is anticipated that AI will integrate into every sector," particularly in electronics, computing, and media, Yao mentioned.
Are you curious about the most significant issues and developments happening globally? Find the information you need withSCMP Knowledge, our latest platform featuring curated content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, presented by our acclaimed team.
DeepSeek's unexpected rise this year brought China's technology shares back into the public eye, fueling hope that the nation could still take the lead in AI despite U.S. export restrictions. Investors are now spotting fresh opportunities in the sector following their investments in platform-focused developers of large language models likeAlibaba Group Holding and Tencent Holdings. Alibaba holds ownership of the Post.
China's largest online travel agencyTrip.com Group, short-video platform operator Kuaishou Technology and budget e-commerce operator PDD Holdingsinclude companies that are poised to benefit from AI applications, as noted by Morgan Stanley. Additional possible winners are electric vehicle manufacturers.BYD and Nio, as well as a manufacturer of home appliancesMidea Group, it was mentioned in a report in May.
In contrast to the US, which held an advantage in AI computing, China prioritized efficiency—highlighting income derived from AI-driven products and cost reductions resulting from increased productivity, according to the US investment bank.
"A more competitive AI environment is expected, with DeepSeek possibly encouraging rivals like ByteDance, Tencent, Alibaba, and others to lower model costs and integrate AI into their business processes," it stated.
The worldwide AI infrastructure market, valued at $35.4 billion in 2023, is expected to expand at a yearly growth rate of 30 percent between 2024 and 2030, according to Kate Lakin, research director at Putnam Investments in the United States, in a report released last month. She noted that this growth might face temporary interruptions due to shifts in U.S. policies regarding technology exports to China and evolving tariff situations.
The global wealth management division of UBS stated in a report released on Tuesday that the enduring long-term development in artificial intelligence will continue to fuel growth within the technology sector, noting that the effect of American technological restrictions on major Chinese tech companies would be minimal.
"The advanced productive forces exemplified by AI are expected to serve as the key driver in overcoming the 'middle-income trap' and redefining the global economic structure," China Galaxy Securities stated in a report released in June.
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This piece was first published in the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), a top news outlet covering China and Asia.
Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
CarePal Co-Founder Piyush Jain Honored with 2025 Harvard Innovation Award
NewsVoirMumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 10: Piyush Jain, Co-Founder and CEO of CarePal Group and Impact Guru, has received the 2025 Alumni Innovation Award from the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) Alumni Board at Harvard University. Piyush, who graduated from the 2013 Master's in Public Policy Program at HKS, was selected from a strong competition for his significant contributions to healthcare financing in India. Over the past ten years, Impact Guru, which was nurtured at the Harvard Innovation Labs, has already assisted more than 50,000 patients and involved 4.5 million donors worldwide, making Piyush a leader who has effectively applied technology-based innovation to create broad social impact by addressing complex issues in healthcare. The Award honors HKS alumni who exhibit outstanding leadership, ingenuity, and commitment to bringing about positive change for individuals and communities through technology. In addition to his work at Impact Guru, Piyush has also co-founded CarePal Money - a healthcare lending platform and CarePal Secure - a health protection and insurance marketplace. CarePal Money provides zero-interest healthcare loans in India and has already helped over 1,200 patients within 18 months to access non-critical treatments without financial burden by collaborating with healthcare providers and lending institutions. CarePal Secure offers innovative health benefits and insurance plans for more than 200,000 customers, addressing vital gaps for India's underinsured middle class and lower-income population. Piyush was recognized with the award on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Harvard Kennedy School during the Forum as part of the alumni reunion weekend.
Piyush Jain, Co-founder and CEO of CarePal Group, stated, "I am deeply honored to have received the Alumni Innovation Award from Harvard Kennedy School. This recognition is particularly meaningful to me because ImpactGuru (and CarePal) was initially conceived during my time as a student as part of a PAE (Policy Analysis Exercise) project and was nurtured at the Harvard Innovation Lab. What started as an academic endeavor has evolved into a real-world mission - to make healthcare more affordable and accessible for millions of families in India and beyond. I sincerely appreciate the faculty, classmates, and the HKS and Harvard community that supported bold ideas and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. I feel privileged to share this remarkable honor with my co-founders, committed team members, supportive investors, empathetic hospital partners and doctors, courageous patients and their families, generous donors, and all our insurance and lending partners who have consistently believed in our mission. We are dedicated to working diligently on our mission to ensure that no one dies due to a lack of funds for healthcare in India and to positively support the healthcare financing needs of over 1 million customers by 2030." Other award recipients at Harvard this year included Natalia Gavrilita, former Prime Minister of Moldova, who received the Alumni Public Service Award. At the same time, Sebastian Burduja, Romania's Minister of Energy, was awarded the Emerging Global Leader Award. Carol Finney, Director of Harvard University's MPA/ID Program, received the Julius E. Babbitt Memorial Volunteer Award, and Lisa B. Sloane was recognized with the HKS Fund Outstanding Alumni Award. CarePal is an integratedhealthcare financeA system that integrates a medical lending marketplace (CarePal Money), insurance and protection services (CarePal Secure), and a crowdfunding platform (Impact Guru) for healthcare funding. Our goal is to ensure that essential and elective treatments are accessible and affordable for all households in India. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The following press release has been provided byNewsVoir. ANI will not be held responsible in any manner for the content thereof)
The hidden health signals your nose can uncover
Several of us throw away that tissue without a moment's consideration.
However, experts now claim that the color of mucus exiting your nose might indicate concealed signals regarding your well-being.
The human body produces approximately 100 milliliters of mucus daily — which is about 6.5 tablespoons — most of which is swallowed into the stomach, though some also comes out through the nose.
Medical professionals have conducted extensive research on mucus, often referred to as snot, categorizing it into seven different colors. These color variations can provide insights into whether an individual is suffering from an infection, an allergic reaction, or if they are inhaling excessive amounts of polluted air.
"If your mucus is changing color, you should check for other symptoms," Dr Raj Sindwani, an ear, nose, and throat specialist at theCleveland Clinic said.
It's the concept that you were managing well, nothing was troubling you, and then something shifted. You'll need to [consider] what other changes might have occurred.
In general, specialists mentioned that mucus should be transparent in color — showing that all systems are working properly.
However, if this occurrence changes or the mucus becomes more abundant, it might suggest an underlying issue.
Mucus within the nasal passages plays a crucial role in maintaining open airways by capturing dust particles and harmful microorganisms, enabling normal breathing.
It also strengthens the immune system, as the mucus contains antibodies capable of fighting off harmful invaders, and it moistens the air inhaled, helping to keep the airways from becoming dry and irritated.
Among the colors to watch for, medical professionals indicate that white, cream-like, or pale yellow mucus indicates the body is battling a cold or another viral illness, as the white hue results from white blood cells working to eliminate invading pathogens.
When mucus thickens and takes on a yellowish-green color, it indicates that the body is combating a bacterial infection or inflammation in the nasal passages.
Reddish or pink mucus could suggest that a tiny blood vessel in the nasal passage ruptured at some point, and the blood has since dried up.
In addition, mucus that is brown in color may also suggest overexposure to air contaminants or heavy cigarette use, whereas black mucus could mean the body is battling a severe fungal infection.
Experts also suggest that the quantity of mucus generated in the nose might serve as an indicator of an underlying issue.
If an individual's nose generates a significant amount of mucus, this might signal a bacterial infection or an allergic response to pollen - which can lead to increased mucus production in the nasal passages.
In some rare instances, specialists suggest it could also indicate an early symptom of Parkinson's disease.
One of the earliest indicators that individuals with Parkinson's disease experience is difficulty using the muscles in their nose and throat, leading to the buildup of saliva and mucus in their nasal passages, as stated by the Parkinson's Foundation.
Examining an individual's mucus could also provide clues about Alzheimer's disease.
Studies have also found that high levels of amyloid proteins in nasal mucus could suggest that an individual is experiencing Alzheimer's disease.
It is thought that Alzheimer's disease results from the formation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, which lead to cell damage and death.
Amyloid protein molecules aggregate within brain cells, creating clusters known as plaques. Meanwhile, tau proteins intertwine into thread-like structures referred to as tangles.
The plaques and tangles hinder the brain's neurons from transmitting electrical and chemical signals between each other.
Gradually, this disturbance results in lasting harm to the brain, which contributes to the development of Alzheimer's disease.
Although it is still unknown how and when the amount of amyloid proteins rises in the nasal secretions of individuals, research has indicated that the detection of these proteins in nasal mucus serves as a distinct indicator for Alzheimer's disease in the brain.
Consequently, researchers point out that analyzing nasal secretions at an early stage to identify specific proteins may aid in delaying the disease's advancement by initiating therapies sooner.
Furthermore, recent studies suggest that analyzing the sticky fluid could also reveal if an individual is prone to developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – an inflammatory lung condition and the sixth most common cause of death in the United States.
A July 2025 study A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology revealed that individuals who smoked for many years and had elevated levels of a protein known as IL-26 in their mucus were more prone to developing COPD.
Swedish scientists discovered that elevated amounts of the protein in the lungs and mucus of individuals who smoke indicated reduced lung function and limited respiratory capacity.
Read moreKanye West Controversy Forces Music Festival Cancellation
Rubicon Festival in Bratislava, Slovakia, has been called off following public backlash thatKanye West was set to perform.
The American rapper, known as Ye, who is 48 years old, has been a subject of debate for a long time.
Posing as a 'Nazi' and postingantisemitic content on Twitter to recently facing allegations of sex trafficking and sexual assault, there are numerous reasons why the singer is controversial.
In May, the musician unveiled a track called Heil Hitler that concludes with a clip from a speech byAdolf HitlerIn 1935, in the original German. Hitler speaks in German during the speech: 'Stand up for me as I have stood up for you.'
The track was prohibited in Germany under hate speech regulations and was taken down from most prominent music services.
Since the song's release, artists have been withdrawing from the Rubicon Festival, to the disappointment of fans signing a petitionin opposition to the gig, describing Ye as a main act as 'an insult to historical memory, a celebration of wartime violence, and a degradation of all victims of the Nazi regime.'
Amid significant backlash, the event has been called off.
The Slovak festival stated on July 10 that the whole event was canceled because of 'unforeseen situations' and 'external influences'.
The festival announced on social media'It is with sadness that we have to announce: the Rubicon Festival will not be held this year.
This was not a simple choice. Owing to media influence and the departure of various artists and collaborators, we could not provide the festival with the level of quality that you deserve.
We sincerely appreciate your support and confidence. For individuals who have bought tickets, kindly wait – details regarding refunds will be emailed to you within 14 days.
This isn't the conclusion of Rubicon. We aren't surrendering. We are already striving to return more powerful.
The hip-hop event in Bratislava was scheduled for the weekend of July 18-20, but some artists and sponsors pulled out due to the participation of the controversial rapper.
Kanye was scheduled to take the stage on Sunday, July 20, alongside Malik Montana and Kontrafakt in the Sunday performance lineup.
Other major performers over the weekend were Ken Carson, Offset, and Sheck Wes.
Earlier this month, it was revealed that the musician hadbanned from Australia, where his wife Bianca Censori hails from.
The musician was granted a 'lower-level' visa that has since been canceled due to the release of his song in May.
The nation's Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated to ABC: 'He has been visiting Australia for a long time.'
He has family here, and he has made numerous offensive remarks that my officials have reviewed once more.
After he released the Heil Hitler song, he no longer holds a valid visa in Australia.
It wasn't a visa intended for performances. It was a less significant one, and the officials still reviewed the law and stated, you're going to have a song and promote that kind of Nazism, we don't want that in Australia.
It remains uncertain whether this restriction is permanent, since visas are evaluated on a case-by-case basis when the application is received.
Daily News has contacted Kanye West's representatives for a statement.
Senators' Post-Office Struggles vs. Nigerian Perceptions of Wealth - Akpabio
In contrast with common belief, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has stated that legislators do not make significant income and many face financial difficulties once they leave their positions.
The former Governor of Akwa Ibom State revealedon Wednesday, July 9, 2025, as legislators honoredCaleb Zagi, a former senator from Kaduna South, who passed away on June 25 following a short illness.
The legislator from Kaduna South,Sunday Marshall Katung, had proposed a motion to recognize Zagi, who passed away on June 25 following a short illness.
During his speech, Enyinnaya Abaribe, the senator for Abia South, stated that the deceased had contacted his former colleagues for financial assistance just before his death.
ALSO READ: Tinubu dissatisfied with the opposition parties' lack of unity - Akpabio states
Abaribe mentioned that he and several colleagues provided personal donations for Zagi, whom he characterized as a dedicated lawmaker who represented his constituents with modesty and bridged religious and regional differences.
The Abia senator said, 'I was extremely upset when he came to me and revealed that he was seriously ill and was asking for our support, requiring us to make personal contributions to him.'
Of course, this is one of the aspects that many people in Nigeria are unaware of regarding the life of a legislative member.
There is a belief that a significant amount of money is invested here for individuals, but naturally, whatever you witness, the moment you leave this room is the very moment this chamber offers you no advantages.
Caleb belonged to that group, and I am deeply, deeply sorry that in the end, that illness took his life. He was a very kind and respectable lawmaker and a supporter of the people from Kaduna South.
And since he was someone who bridged gaps — from the north to the south, from Christian to Muslim — we can only pray that God blesses this wonderful soul and grants him eternal peace.
Akpabio claims that senators often face financial difficulties after leaving their positions.
In his capacity, the Senate President commended Abaribe for his individual efforts and took the chance to address what he referred to as common misunderstandings regarding legislators.
According to Akpabio, the idea that senators accumulate riches during their time in office is inaccurate, arguing that many government workers endure hardships with minimal rewards following their service.
ALSO READ: Donald Trump sought to enact a visa restriction on Akpabio and Abbas concerning the Rivers crisis
"I was impressed by your involvement in the discussion regarding the passing of respected Senator Caleb, and you highlighted your personal role during his illness. For this, the senate thanks you," Akpabio stated.
But you made a deep statement—that people in Nigeria believe a significant amount of money is spent on the national assembly.
But once you leave the national assembly, you find yourself in need of money just to treat yourself, which highlights the absurdity of all the accusations and subtle hints directed at the lawmakers.
I believe it was a revealing experience for many. Some individuals feel that our purpose here is to earn money.
They are unaware that we have come here to make sacrifices for the nation's development, allowing us to leave a better country for future generations.
The Senate held a moment of silence to pay respects to the departed and decided to send a group to express their condolences to his family.
Zagi was a member of the House of Representatives prior to transitioning to the Senate in 2007, all while being affiliated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Hong Kong’s Iconic Super Star Seafood Closes Final Outlet, Leaving Staff Owed $760K
36-year-old Hong Kong's Super Star Seafood Restaurant has suddenly closed its final branch, leaving around 50 employees seeking to recover HKD6 million (US$764,000) in unpaid salaries and severance.
The closure notice was posted at the company’s last remaining outlet in the Moko shopping centre in Mong Kok on Wednesday. "In recent years, the catering industry in Hong Kong has been facing structural challenges," it said.
A notice announcing the closure of Super Star Seafood Restaurant was displayed at its Moko shopping centre location in Mong Kok on Wednesday, South China Morning Post reported.
"In recent years, the catering industry in Hong Kong has been facing structural challenges," the notice stated.
"The local consumer market has continued to be weak, and there has been a fundamental change in tourists’ consumption patterns. The business of our company has inevitably been affected."
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A dish at Super Star Seafood Restaurant in Hong Kong. Photo by Instagram/moko_super_star |
The notice explained that the company attempted to negotiate relief measures, such as rent adjustments or suspensions, with landlords but could not reach an agreement.
The unexpected closure has left 50 affected workers in uncertainty and they are currently working with the Federation of Hong Kong and Kowloon Labour Unions to resolve employment issues with the restaurant operator, according to The Standard.
The employees were only informed of the closure around 11 p.m. the day before. It is expected that the number of impacted workers may increase.
Outstanding payments amount to approximately HKD6 million, according to authorities.
Among the affected workers, who are dealing with one and a half months of unpaid wages from two months ago, as well as unclaimed annual leave and payment in lieu of notice, the union highlighted that 15 employees have sufficient tenure to be eligible for severance payments.
Established in 1989, the Super Star Group once operated 16 branches across the city, but the Moko branch was its last remaining location.
Many Hong Kong restaurants have closed in recent months amid high rents and low consumer spending.
Four Point Gold Restaurant chain also announced Tuesday its closure of one of its two remaining restaurants.
"Can't stand up to times, can't stand up to the current market," the restaurant said in an announcement.
Last month, Hong Kong’s popular restaurant operator King Parrot Group, founded in 1992, closed nine eateries, reportedly owing staff more than HKD1 million in pay and benefits.
East Africa: From Policies to Progress – Empowering Women Now
By Joyce Ojanji
When the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) funded- Growth and Economic Opportunities for Women (GrOW) East Africa initiative began, the challenge was clear. Across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Rwanda, millions of women faced the same barriers: unpaid care work, gender-segregated labour markets, and locked-out procurement opportunities. The initiative promised something different, evidence that could break these cycles.
For five years, fifteen research teams across the region spent years generating evidence, crafting policies, and proving what works for women’s economic empowerment. The GrOW East Africa chapter has now closed, and the evidence is overwhelming. Now comes the part that determines whether the five years of work will transform lives or gather dust.
In Tanzania, women’s participation in public procurement jumped from 12% to 85% after targeted training. In Uganda, market-based childcare centres freed up women’s time for income-generating activities. In Kenya, the Kidogo childcare model not only empowered women entrepreneurs but also sparked the creation of Nakuru County’s first Child Care Facilities Act.
Each of the fifteen GrOW projects delivered policy wins. Some influenced national frameworks. Others shaped county-level regulations. A few triggered international conversations about unpaid care work and gender-based labour market segregation.
Patricia Wekulo from the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) smiled as she recounted Kenya’s journey. ‘’Nakuru County had no clear policy framework for childcare facilities before our study. Now they have legislation.’’
In Tanzania, Vivian Mkaazi, a senior researcher at the Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF), watched government officials participate directly in training sessions with women entrepreneurs. ‘’The Ministry of Gender embraced the project. They wanted to own it.’’
As experts rightfully noted, evidence and policies are only the beginning. During the GrOW End-of-Project Workshop held in Nairobi, Kenya, stakeholders came together not just to celebrate successes, but to interrogate what it will take to move from research to real change.
The answer, according to many, is clear: political will. Without it, all the evidence generated risks gathering dust on shelves. As Dr. Annet Mulema, senior program officer at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), rightfully put it, without strong implementation, policies remain promises.
Gilbert Sendugwa, Executive Director of Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC)raised the question that hung over the entire workshop.
‘’What I would have loved to hear more about is how the political will was mobilized within these projects. Because that is needed everywhere. The how of mobilizing political will and maintaining it through the implementation phase—I would have loved to know more, knowing there are implementation gaps after policy creation,” he said.
According to Sendugwa, political will is not just about getting leaders to sign documents; it is about motivating them to take action, sustained commitment through budget cycles, administrative changes, and competing priorities. It is about enforcement when compliance lags. It is about fighting corruption when it undermines policy effectiveness.
The workshop revealed promising directions. In enforcement and compliance, regulators now have tools to ensure policy implementation. For scalability, innovative solutions like the Kidogo model prove that successful interventions can be replicated across contexts. Several projects identified cultural barriers as persistent challenges.
As Dr. Hellen Otieno from Strathmore University notes, changing norms requires multi-layered approaches involving communities, private sector partners, and sustained advocacy. The evidence base now exists to design more targeted norm-change interventions.
Women’s enterprises need formalization to access public procurement opportunities, requiring collaboration between government registration systems and private-sector mentorship programs. Several GrOW projects demonstrated successful models for such partnerships.
The workshop highlighted multiple collaboration opportunities. Research institutions can partner with implementing organizations to scale successful models. Government agencies can work with private sector players to formalize women’s enterprises. Regional bodies can facilitate knowledge sharing across borders.
But collaboration and research mean little without sustained political commitment. Political will grows when stakeholders see tangible benefits. The GrOW projects succeeded partly because they demonstrated clear value to multiple constituencies, not just women, but families, communities, and local economies.
Maintaining that political will requires continuous engagement, regular success stories, and visible champions at every level of government, Sendugwa noted. The evidence is there. The policies exist. The question now is whether countries will seize this moment to transform millions of women’s lives.
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Trump Unites Party, Celebrates 'Big Beautiful Bill' Amid Heated National Climate
Washington DC [ US ], July 4 (ANI): As the US Congress passed Republicans' ' One Big Beautiful Bill ', President Donald Trump expressed his elation over this significant legislative win, announcing a bill signing celebration at the White House. Noting that almost all representatives of the Republican party voted in favour of the bill, resulting in a final vote of 218-214, Trump said, "The Republicans in the House of Representatives have just passed the 'ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL ACT." Our Party is UNITED like never before, and our Country is "HOT."Trump invited all the US Congress men/women and Senators to join the bill signing celebrations. "We are going to have a Signing Celebration at the White House tomorrow, at 4 P.M. EST. All Congress men/women and Senators are invited. Together, we will celebrate our Nation's Independence and the beginning of our new Golden Age. The people of the United States of America will be Richer, Safer, and Prouder than ever before," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Thank you to Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and all of the wonderful Republican Members of Congress who helped us deliver on our Promises, and so much more. Together, we can do things that were not even imagined possible less than one year ago. We will keep working, and winning -- CONGRATULATIONS AMERICA!" Trump added. ' One Big Beautiful Bill ' was passed with a final vote of 218-214, with two Republicans, Representative Thomas Massie and Brian Fitzpatrick, voting against it, The Hill reported.The landmark bill, which includes tax cuts and funding boosts for the Pentagon and border security, will now head to President Donald Trump 's desk to be signed into law. Donald Trump is expected to sign the bill in a "big, beautiful signing ceremony" on Friday evening, CNN reported, quoting White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt."The one 'big, beautiful bill' has passed the House of Representatives and will be at the president's desk for signature at a big, beautiful signing ceremony tomorrow at 5 p.m. on the Fourth of July, just as the president always said and hoped it would be," Leavitt announced on a press call shortly after the bill's passage.The bill was passed in the US Senate on Tuesday, with a 51-50 vote, with Vice-President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote. The Hill, in its report, added. (ANI)
England Spin Bowling Coach Praises Gill's "Masterclass" Performance in Birmingham
Birmingham [UK], July 4 (ANI): Following a hard day in the field, England spin bowling coach Jeetan Patel hailed Indian skipper Shubman Gill for his "masterclass" double ton, saying that it left bowlers and fielders tired. Gill produced a knock for ages, breaking several records with a 387-ball 269 on day two at Birmingham on Thursday. Speaking about the knock in the post-day presser, Jeetan said, "He has put on a proper masterclass in how to bat on a good wicket. But the guys threw everything at him, and rightly so, very tired after their efforts.""But I think to take 10 wickets on that, for us anyway, has been fantastic. And they have shown that it seems like a little bit of a new ball wicket where it can do a little bit to start. No one really knows how the older ball can react in days from now," added Jeetan while appreciating India's bowling and praising his bowlers too. Jeetan also lauded Team India bowlers for using the new ball well, especially after staying away from bowling duties for a day and a half. "I think we did the same yesterday (using the new ball well), it just did not go our way, I suppose. And it may have been a little bit different if we did get those opportunities (missed reviews and chances), but that was yesterday, and today's today. So there is obviously another day tomorrow where we will come in, hopefully, as shown so far, the older ball has got softer, and it hasn't done as much, and been harder to get the ball to go sideways," he added.At the end of the day's play, England was 77/3, with Joe Root (18*) and Harry Brook (30*) unbeaten.England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett came to the crease with a task to overcome a massive deficit of 587 runs set by India in the first innings. Crawley put out a statement of his positive intent with two boundaries against Akash Deep in the first over.However, the seamer got the last laugh against the batters, removing both Duckett and Ollie Pope for ducks on two successive balls in the third over, reducing England to 13/2.Joe Root joined Crawley; however, the partnership did not last too long as Mohammed Siraj's short of length outside off delivery went straight into Karun Nair's hands at slips. Crawley walked back for a 30-ball 19, reducing England to 25/3. Root and Brook guided England through the remainder of the session without any wickets lost, forming an unbeaten fifty-run stand.At Tea, India was 564/7, with Gill (265*) and Akash Deep (0*) unbeaten.India kickstarted the second session at 419/6, with Gill (168*) joined by Washington Sundar (1*).Washington and Gill moved cautiously for the first few overs, before Gill let his hands loose against Shoaib Bashir's spin and Josh Tongue's pace, fetching himself two fours and a six within a matter of eight deliveries.Gill's boundary towards deep backwards square leg brought up 450 runs for India in 117.3 overs.Gill was stuck on 199 as Washington Sundar collected a four and six against Tongue in the 120th over.Finally, with a single off Tongue's delivery on the first ball of the 122nd over, Gill reached his maiden double ton in Test cricket, bringing down an array of records and becoming only the third Indian after Sunil Gavaskar and Rahul Dravid to do so.After reaching the milestone, Gill got even more free-flowing, unleashing a brilliant reverse sweep and a beautiful glide against Bashir for two successive fours and smashing Harry Brook's part-time medium pace for a hat-trick of boundaries, including two beautiful drives straight down the ground.
With these, Gill overtook Sunil Gavaskar to register the highest-ever score by an Indian in England.A cut against Brydon Carse helped India reach the 500-run mark in 127.1 overs. Boundaries just kept flowing as Gill-Sundar reached the century stand for the seventh wicket in just 136 balls.Gill reached the 250-run mark with a four against Harry Brook, in 348 balls, with 29 fours and three sixes.Joe Root's part-time spin delivered the magic for England, as he uprooted Washington's stumps for 42 in 103 balls, with three fours and a six, ending an incredible 144-run partnership. India was 558/7 in 138.4 overs.Akash Deep and Gill made sure India did not lose another wicket.At the end of a largely India-dominant first session, India was 419/6, with Gill (168*) joined by Washington Sundar (1*).India started the first session at 310/5, with Gill (114*) and Jadeja (41*) unbeaten. On the very first ball of the inning,Gill collected an easy single to bring up a century stand in 143 balls.There was no changing this duo's positive intent and searching for runs, as Jadeja got two boundaries against Chris Woakes in the 87th over.With a single off Woakes' delivery, Jadeja completed his 23rd half-century in Test and seventh against England. It came in 80 balls, with six fours. He continued his attacking game, cutting and punching against skipper Ben Stokes' pace.India reached the 350-run mark after a single in 94.5 overs. In the 96th over, it was Gill's time to attack, slicing and driving Brydon Carse as the runs continued to leak, piling up England's worries.The 150-run stand came up between Jadeja and Gill before the drinks as India continued to strangulate English bowlers.Gill continued to produce some exquisite shots, reaching his first-ever 150 in Tests in 263 balls, with 17 fours. It was the second 150-plus score by an Indian captain in England after Mohammad Azharuddin's 179 at Old Trafford in 1990.As the innings crossed 100 overs and India marched towards the 400-run mark, a highlight was a smooth reverse sweep played by the Indian skipper against Shoaib Bashir through the vacant backwards point region in the 103rd over. In the 106th over by Bashir, Jadeja's six on the first ball helped India reach the 400-run mark, while the one on the last ball by the left-hander again helped Gill and him complete a double century partnership.England's toil and perseverance finally bore fruit, as a short-ball from Josh Tongue rattled Jadeja, who landed a catch to Jamie Smith, going back for 89 in 137 balls, with 10 fours and a six. India was 414/6 in 107.3 overs.Washington Sundar joined Gill to end the session without any further loss of wickets.Brief Scores: India: 587 (Shubman Gill 265, Ravindra Jadeja 89, Shoaib Bashir 3/167) against England: 77/3 (Harry Brook 30*, Joe Root 18*, Akash Deep 2/36). (ANI)
