EY Celebrates 25 Years of Excellence

…celebrating 25 years of outstanding achievement and influence

By Kingsley Webora TANKEH

Ernst & Young (EY) Ghana has officially begun its Silver Jubilee festivities in Accra, marking 25 years of providing outstanding professional services and playing a role in Ghana's economic development.

Under the theme, 'EY’s 25 Years in Ghana: A Story of Excellence and Impact,' the anniversary represents a major milestone for EY — one of the leading global firms offering services in Assurance, Strategy and Transactions, Tax, and Consulting. Since its founding in 2000, EY Ghana has been instrumental in influencing the nation's business environment, promoting innovation, and creating a legacy based on trust, integrity, and perseverance.

The event launch gathered clients, former students, regulators, and interested parties to consider EY Ghana's progress and its impact on both the private and public sectors. The previous Country Managing Partner, Ferdinand, provided an engaging overview, emphasizing the company's development, obstacles, and successes over the last two and a half decades.

Delivering the main speech, well-known corporate governance specialist and Chairman of MTN Ghana, Dr. Ishmael Yamson, highlighted the lasting principles that have shaped EY Ghana's achievements. "Today, we come together not only to mark an achievement but to recognize the essence of perseverance, creativity, and teamwork that has characterized EY Ghana throughout its 25-year journey," he said.

He attributed the company's expansion to the commitment of its employees, the confidence of its customers, and the assistance from its former associates.

In his speech, Emmanuel Adekahlor, Country Managing Partner at EY Ghana, highlighted the company's contributions through three main areas: client support, employee growth, and involvement in the community. "For the last 25 years, EY Ghana has assisted businesses with change initiatives, tax adherence, financial reporting, strategy, and auditing. We have also worked alongside government bodies to reinforce organizations and influence policy," he mentioned.

EY Ghana remains committed to assisting major regulatory bodies such as the ICAG, SEC, GSE, BOG, and NIC in promoting governance and compliance throughout the financial sector.

Being a people-focused organization, EY Ghana continues to focus on closing the skills gap by hiring graduates and offering training initiatives that provide young professionals with the skills needed to succeed in an ever-changing global economy. Several former participants of these programs now occupy leadership positions across various sectors in Ghana and internationally.

Outside the boardroom, EY Ghana's influence reaches communities via its global corporate responsibility initiative, EY Ripples. So far, the company has engaged more than 1,000 young individuals through programs like 'Sponsor a Child', academic sponsorships, future skills development, and community engagement efforts.

Looking forward, Mr. Adekahlor highlighted EY Ghana's forward-looking approach: "Over the next 25 years, we are ready to increase our speed. Having a strong base established, we are focusing on innovative technologies such as AI and eco-friendly solutions to support our clients in growing and adjusting within a quickly changing environment."

He ended by thanking EY Ghana's clients, regulators, former employees, and team members for their consistent support and collaboration. EY Ghana's Silver Jubilee festivities will extend throughout the year, featuring a range of activities such as an alumni networking cocktail, a corporate gala, a year-end thanksgiving ceremony, and the publication of a commemorative book detailing the company's journey from 2000 to 2025.

EY Ghana

EY Ghana is part of EY Global Limited, a private company based in the UK that is limited by guarantee. The firm has been operating in Ghana since 2000, offering services in Assurance, Strategy and Transactions, Tax, and Consulting. EY operates in more than 150 countries, supporting clients in expanding, evolving, and functioning effectively, while fostering trust and assurance in financial markets and global economies.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).

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Essential Health Reforms Must Be Non-Negotiable

NIGERIA, the most populated nation in Africa, still faces difficulties with its public health system, which has been dealing with long-standing and complicated issues. Hence, it is essential to ensure every citizen has access to high-quality medical care, and establishing confidence in healthcare institutions has now become a critical national focus.

On June 30, Health and Social Welfare Minister Mohammed Pate revealed during a meeting of the Ministerial Oversight Committee in Abuja that the federal government's tax reform will enhance health financing. He mentioned that the recent tax law enacted by President Bola Tinubu will raise government revenue, which will subsequently support essential services such as healthcare. These kinds of assurances are not unprecedented.

Nigeria has depended significantly on outside financial support for its health initiatives, but the government is now committed to altering this situation. Well said.

Interestingly, Nigerians, particularly the elite, allocate between $1.1 billion and $2 billion each year for medical travel. This drains the economy.

As part of this initiative, Pate revealed the intended distribution of N32 billion, approximately N140 per person, over a six-month period to enhance access to high-quality healthcare across the country.

This distribution, which is not sufficient and applies to the timeframe from April through June 2025, is expected to be made available by the end of August.

However, although this influx of money is a beneficial move, it does not fully tackle the underlying, structural problems affecting the healthcare system.

Ongoing insufficient funding has resulted in hospitals being poorly equipped, facing shortages of critical medications, and lacking proper infrastructure. The share of the budget dedicated to the health sector since 2001, when Nigeria set a goal of 15 percent, shows that the nation has repeatedly fallen short of realizing the goal of Universal Health Coverage.

A significant lack of healthcare workers exists. Numerous physicians and nurses keep looking for improved prospects overseas because of unfavorable working environments and minimal compensation. As per a study, more than 16,000 doctors are said to have left in the past five to seven years.

Although rural regions face challenges in accessing healthcare services, numerous urban areas deal with hospitals that are short-staffed, partially because of long-standing corruption that has turned internship positions for medical students into a financial opportunity, thereby preventing many skilled medical personnel from entering the system.

The industry faces challenges including poor policy enforcement, disjointed health insurance systems, and instability, resulting in millions of people lacking essential care and having restricted access to healthcare services.

Approximately 20 percent of the more than 30,000 Primary Health Centres spread throughout Nigeria are completely operational. The remaining ones are unable to deliver fundamental primary healthcare services, as reported by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency.

Regrettably, the systematic casualization of medical staff, which was initially meant to be a temporary solution for staffing shortages, has turned into a dilemma for numerous doctors whose pay is considerably less than that of their full-time counterparts, despite carrying out the same responsibilities.

Temporary medical staffing, often referred to as locum work, was implemented by the government to swiftly address personnel shortages in hospitals, particularly when administrative processes caused delays in official hiring under the federal service system.

Medical professionals working under temporary agreements, some of which are renewed on a monthly or quarterly basis, are not eligible for regular benefits, such as pension contributions, health coverage, paid time off (including maternity and paternity leave), residency or advanced training opportunities, risk and on-call allowances, and chances for career advancement or official acknowledgment.

These difficulties demand a planned and comprehensive strategy. Nigeria needs to focus on healthcare, boost financial resources, enhance salaries and overall conditions for medical personnel.

The Nigerian administration must create a temporary staffing policy that will outline the procedures for hiring, overseeing, compensating healthcare workers, and guaranteeing prompt and equitable payment.

PHCs need to be improved, supplied with necessary resources, and have sufficient personnel. There must be enough financial support for medical services, and people should be able to obtain health coverage.

Successful healthcare reforms can decrease the impact of illnesses, reduce death rates, and enable more Nigerians—no matter their income level or geographic location—to obtain the medical care needed for improved health and greater productivity.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

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150+ Pharma Firms Registered in Nigeria — ACPN

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has revealed that Nigeria currently has more than 150 licensed pharmaceutical manufacturers, with at least five of them accredited by the World Health Organization (WHO) for Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), marking a significant achievement that highlights the sector's increasing capabilities amid ongoing obstacles.

This information was disclosed before the organization's 44th National Conference, which is set to take place in Awka, Anambra State, from July 22 to 27, 2025.

During a pre-conference media briefing, the National Chairman of ACPN, Ambrose Ezeh, told journalists that the pharmaceutical industry is steadily progressing towards becoming a multi-billion-dollar sector.

"Never doubt it, the pharmaceutical industry keeps expanding despite all challenges," Pharm. Local manufacturers, including well-known Nigerian investors, are constructing Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) facilities with investments reaching tens of millions of dollars.

These initiatives are transforming the framework of the game and contributing to the establishment of pharmaceutical security in Nigeria.

He provided examples of major pharmaceutical companies, including Fidson Healthcare, which has been significantly involved in the manufacture of anti-retroviral medications, Emzor Pharmaceuticals, which recently established a Cephalosporin facility, and Jawa Pharmaceuticals, an Indian firm that has introduced a beta-lactam production unit in Nigeria.

As per Ezeh, due to recent funding and planned growth initiatives, the sector is expected to increase from its present estimated worth of $2 billion to up to $10 billion within the next five years.

The ACPN also praised Codix Healthcare for setting up a local facility to produce in-vitro diagnostic kits and medical supplies, enhancing the nation's ability to be self-sufficient in critical health products.

He mentioned that although there have been improvements, the association pointed out that the industry still needs intentional assistance from the government.

We call on the government at every level to assist pharmaceutical producers by offering specific incentives, such as access to equipment and raw materials that comply with GMP requirements.

"Local production offers significant potential for generating employment, fostering economic development, enhancing international trade, and strengthening national security," Ezeh stated.

He cautioned that poorly executed policies, like the contentious MEDIPOOL initiative, might hinder advancement if those involved, such as pharmacists, are not adequately included in discussions.

"Policies should not be created independently. The Federal Ministry of Health needs to engage more with stakeholders involved in pharmacy practice prior to implementing changes," he added.

The ACPN also urged the government to revise the Fake Drug Act to impose harsher consequences for violators and to completely enforce the National Drug Distribution Guidelines (2015), designed to clean up Nigeria's disordered pharmaceutical supply network.

Shifting focus to professional politics within the health sector, Pharm. Ezeh voiced his frustration regarding what he referred to as "the ongoing subordination of pharmacists and other healthcare professionals by physicians," whom he blamed for shaping policies in their own interest.

He stated: "The government keeps favoring doctors who desire that every title, position, or benefit in the healthcare sector be reserved solely for members of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)."

This challenges the independent judgment of other skilled healthcare practitioners.

Ezeh also raised the question of why only doctors are selected as Chief Executive Officers of federal health institutions, and expressed concern that even though a consultant level for pharmacists was introduced in 2015, many hospitals continue to refuse to adopt it.

We, as a profession, have invested millions in training for the fellowship program that paves the way to becoming a consultant, but we face obstacles at every stage," he stated. "Ironically, doctors who get government-sponsored training frequently leave the country, while pharmacists who finance their education themselves are blocked from career advancement.

The group also took a strong position against the proposed National Health Facility Regulatory Authority (NHFRA) Bill that is currently under consideration by the National Assembly, cautioning against any effort to combine the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) with other regulatory agencies.

It is one of the factors that enabled Nigeria to reach WHO Maturity Level 3 in medicine regulation. A merger would reduce our efficiency and disrupt years of advancement.

He mentioned that international best practices in nations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and South Africa involve having independent pharmacy councils to ensure professional standards and public safety.

With the Awka conference approaching, the ACPN reaffirmed its dedication to reforms aimed at guaranteeing the availability, access, and affordability of safe and high-quality medicines in Nigeria.

The vision is distinct," Ezeh stated. "We will continue to advance, as the scripture mentions, 'I, the Lord, bring down the tall tree and cause the low tree to grow tall, I have spoken and I will accomplish it'.

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).

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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.

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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)

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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.

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Kanye 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.

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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).

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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."

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.

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