Global News

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From Waste to Wealth: Nelly Gesare's Sustainable Revolution in Kenya

In a world where waste management has become a pressing concern, one woman is making a significant impact. Nelly Gesare, a former journalist turned entrepreneur, has founded Greenthing Kenya, a company that is revolutionizing the way Kenyans think about waste. By upcycling discarded materials into eco-friendly products, Gesare is not only reducing waste but also creating a thriving business that empowers local communities.A Story of RenewalWalking into one of Greenthing Kenya's retail stores is like stepping into a world of transformation. Glass bottles, once destined for landfills, are now sleek drinking tumblers and jars. Scraps of fabric, saved from waste, have been stitched into desirable shopping bags and reusable dish sponges. Every shelf tells a story of renewal, showcasing the potential of waste to become something valuable. Gesare's journey is not without its challenges. As a woman entrepreneur in Africa, she faces formidable hurdles, from securing funding to navigating global economic uncertainties. Despite these obstacles, she has managed to grow her business from a solo venture to employing over ten full-time staff members. Her success is a proof to the resilience of African women in business.Greenthing Kenya's impact goes beyond just creating eco-friendly products. The company works with women waste pickers, offering them fair wages and dignifying their role in the circular economy. By formalizing waste collection and providing financial stability to these workers, Gesare is proving that sustainability solutions must also be people-centered. Gesare's business model is a shining example of sustainability in action. The company transforms discarded glass, fabric, and plastics into a diverse range of eco-friendly items, from biodegradable cleaning supplies to upcycled textiles. The company's solar-powered stitching station ensures that even the production process aligns with its sustainability ethos.Expanding HorizonsGreenthing Kenya is not just a local success story; it's also making waves internationally. The company has started exporting glass products and eco-friendly home care products to global buyers. To sustain this growth, Gesare is collaborating with universities on cutting-edge sustainability research and investing in improved packaging to meet global standards. For aspiring green entrepreneurs, Gesare's message is clear: "You have it in you to make it possible. When one thing doesn't work, it's often a redirection to explore what you can do with the resources available to you." Her story is a light  to the power of innovation and determination in creating a more sustainable future.As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, entrepreneurs like Nelly Gesare are leading the way towards a more sustainable future. With Greenthing Kenya, she has created a business that not only reduces waste but also empowers local communities and promotes eco-friendly practices. As the company continues to grow and expand, it's clear that the future of sustainability is bright.

17 Apr 2025

Global News

Toddler Crowned the Youngest-Ever Male Artist by Guinness, and His Works Are Selling Quickly!

According to Guinness World Records, a toddler from Ghana has emerged as the youngest artist in history. Nana Ace-Liam Sam Ankrah started painting at the age of six months and was one year and 152 days old when he was awarded the honor. As his mother, artist Chantelle Kuukua Eghan worked on a sculpture she had been commissioned to create for Miss Universe 2023, she had to keep her kid occupied. The baby's first artwork, which she aptly dubbed "The Crawl," was created after the single mother decided to put him up with a canvas and some paint. She was amazed by what he produced by crawling around in the colors. Specifically, her son's color combinations left her speechless. Eghan told the BBC, "He was so intrigued by the bright colors." "He is already aware of which colors go well together."His drawings depict a person who is eager to learn new things.                                                    One-year-old Ghanaian child earns the title of the youngest male artist in the Guinness World Records (Source: Google Images)  Since learning to walk and talk, Ace-Liam now asks to paint in their home studio and stands at his mini easel with his own apron and paint palette. He usually calls for his mother to help him open whatever colors he chooses for the session, which can last anywhere from 5 minutes to several days. “Once he’s done, he says, ‘Mama finish,’” Eghan revealed to Guinness. “Every painting is an expression of his curiosity and joy in discovering new things.” Ace-Liam quickly built a portfolio as he continued to create new, colorful creations — but they didn’t just fill up his mom’s fridge.  Where His Work Is Leading To~  From late December to the beginning of January, his work was on display at the Museum of Science and Technology in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Nine out of the ten pieces on display were sold, and Rebecca Akufo-Addo, the first lady of Ghana, who visited the show, even placed a commission with him. The child qualified for the title of world's youngest artist, which he formally obtained last week, after participating in a formal public show and selling his artwork. To date, the toddler has sold fifteen pieces. "I just broke down and thanked God when I opened the email," Eghan said to the BBC. She is hoping that her son's exposure will help him obtain scholarships to develop his talents, provide doors for him to sell his artwork abroad, raise awareness of the value of art, and inspire others to support their children's abilities. The delighted mother told Guinness, "Every child is unique, and nurturing their passions can lead to amazing discoveries and achievements." ''Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter.'' ~ Mark Twain

4 Jun 2024

Global News

Namibia's Circular Water System Inspires Global Interest in Tackling Water Scarcity

In the face of escalating water crises around the world, Namibia's innovative circular water supply system has caught the attention of politicians and experts alike. The country, known as the driest in Sub-Saharan Africa, has successfully implemented a groundbreaking water reclamation process that turns sewage into safe drinking water within 24 hours. Namibia's capital city, Windhoek, faced severe water shortages in the 1950s due to a rapidly growing population and limited natural resources. In response, the city pioneered the Goreangab Water Reclamation Plant in 1968, becoming the world's first facility to produce drinking water directly from sewage through a process known as direct potable reuse (DPR). Through continuous multi-barrier treatment and bacterial digestion, pollutants and pathogens are effectively eliminated, ensuring the quality and safety of the reclaimed water. The success of this system has led to 99 percent of Windhoek's population having access to drinking water, even though the city is located far from perennial rivers and the coast. Namibia's achievements have not gone unnoticed. Delegations from countries such as the United States, France, Germany, and Australia have visited Windhoek to explore solutions to their own water scarcity issues. Megadrought conditions in the US, for example, have prompted states like Texas, California, Arizona, and Colorado to consider embracing DPR. While the circular water system is not a panacea for global water scarcity, it represents a significant step toward building climate resilience and reducing reliance on natural water sources. As more nations follow Namibia's lead, the world is recognizing the importance of innovative approaches to ensure sustainable access to clean water for all.

6 Sep 2023

Global News

Footprints in Time: Oldest Known Homo Sapiens Footprint Unearthed After 153,000 Years

Scientists in South Africa have discovered the oldest known Homo sapiens footprint, estimated to be 153,000 years old. The footprint was found during an excavation of a dried-up lake bed in the Nefud Desert and is the only evidence of human presence in the area at that time. The discovery of the footprint is significant because it provides new insights into the migration of early humans out of Africa. The shape of the foot suggests that the footprint was made by a young adult male who was approximately six feet tall. The discovery also shows that early humans were able to adapt to the harsh desert conditions and survive in the area. The Nefud Desert is now a key area of interest for archaeologists, who are hoping to uncover further evidence of early human activity in the region. This discovery is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the scientists and researchers involved in the excavation. The discovery of the footprint sheds new light on the history of human evolution and migration, highlighting the importance of continued research and preservation of our heritage. Each new discovery provides us with a deeper understanding of our past and the forces that have shaped our world today. This groundbreaking discovery is sure to inspire further research and exploration, as scientists continue to uncover new evidence of the incredible journey of human evolution.

30 May 2023

Global News

Positive Reads

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Penguins Return Home: South Africa’s Compassionate Action Pays Off

Once, along South Africa’s rugged shores, the skies echoed with the playful chatter of African penguins. They were not just birds but they were part of the rhythm of the land, flippers flapping, beaks calling, lives unfolding. But over time, their voices began to fade. Not because nature failed them, but because we did. As fishing boats swept through their waters and plastic choked their paths, the sea became a place of hunger, not home. Their colonies, once bustling, turned into quiet memorials of what was. And the world watched, distracted. But deep in that silence, something else began to stir - a call to action.From Nets to Nurture: A story of respect and renewal! South Africa stepped in—not with headlines or fanfare, but with deliberate, courageous decisions.In six key breeding colonies—places like Robben Island and Stony Point, where generations of penguins have returned year after year—no-fishing zones were established. These weren’t just bureaucratic lines drawn on maps. They were acts of restoration, invisible sanctuaries etched into the sea.These marine safe havens became places of peace—where anchovies and sardines could replenish, where penguin parents could hunt without threat, and where chicks could grow strong enough to one day take their own leap into the waves.It wasn’t about enforcing control. It was about offering compassion to a struggling species, about recognizing that survival requires space—literal and figurative—for recovery. And slowly, the ocean responded. The fish returned. The penguins began to thrive. For the first time in years, the sea grew quiet enough to breathe. To heal. To sing.But the true power behind this change wasn’t just science—it was people.Over 33,500 individuals stood up for the African penguin. They signed petitions, wrote letters, and raised their voices. Conservationists, coastal communities, government officials, and local fishers—often seen on opposite sides—came together to craft a solution grounded in empathy and shared purpose.This is the real story of hope: not just that change happened, but that it was made possible through unity. When humanity chooses coexistence over conflict, when we prioritize balance over blind consumption, the planet listens. And it answers with resilience.The African penguin isn’t just surviving, it’s getting a second chance. And that should stir something inside us. Because when we protect the smallest lives, we honor the very essence of our own. We are not separate from nature. We are part of it. And when we start acting like it, the world becomes a little more whole.

8 Apr 2025

Positive Reads

What Causes the Difference in Hair Color

Hair color is determined by the amount and type of pigments present in the hair follicles. The two main pigments that contribute to hair color are eumelanin, which gives hair its black or brown color, and pheomelanin, which gives hair its red or blonde color. The ratio of these two pigments determines the final color of a person's hair.   Blonde hair is caused by a lower concentration of eumelanin and a higher concentration of pheomelanin. This combination results in a lighter hair color, ranging from light blonde to golden blonde. People with blonde hair are more common in northern Europe, where the lighter hair color provides an advantage in the sunnier, lighter environment. The lighter hair also allows for more vitamin D synthesis, which is important for overall health and well-being.   On the other hand, black hair is caused by a higher concentration of eumelanin. This is most common in people of African descent, where the darker hair color provides a natural sun protection, as well as a cultural preference. The darker hair also absorbs more heat, which helps regulate body temperature in the warmer climate.   There are also many other factors that can contribute to hair color, including genetics, age, hormones, and environmental factors such as exposure to sunlight and environmental pollutants. For example, as people age, their hair often becomes lighter due to a reduction in the production of pigments. Hormonal changes can also affect hair color, as seen in women  

7 Feb 2023

Positive Reads

Know More About This Piece of Africa That Exists in the State of Gujarat!

If you ever visit the Jambur village in Gujarat, you will be in for a surprise. People in this village have typical African features and they seem to be of African descent, yet they converse in fluent Gujarati! Jambur village,  which is situated around 20 km from Gir, is therefore called the African village in Gujarat as for centuries, the Siddi communities of African origin have dwelled here.  They are thought to have initially arrived in India during the seventh century, and more might have arrived during the Arab conquest. Some were traders and sailors, while others were slaves who were transported to India. For these individuals, India is their home and they no longer know or remember their native African tongue. They can now easily converse in clear Gujarati language. The majority of them were transported to India as slaves by the Portuguese, and if reports are to be believed, they are the direct descendants of the Bantu Tribe. The interesting thing about this community is that they must only marry inside their group, therefore their genetic diversity is constrained to that group. They acquired this distinct African appearance because of this trait. But when it comes to traditions, they often adhere to Gujarati customs and have largely forgotten their ancestors' culture and traditions.

10 Nov 2022

Positive Reads

We are the world

March 21 is the ' International Day of Elimination of Racial Discrimination'. It was on this day in 1960 when police opened fire and killed several people who were peacefully demonstrating against Apartheid in South Africa. This led to the UN General Assembly calling upon the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination. Subsequently, the Apartheid system was abolished, yet many individuals and communities continue to suffer from injustice and stigma that racism brings. Ever since its inception the United Nations has been concerned about this issue and has adopted the following measures to eliminate racism. Together: Together is a global initiative that promote respect, safety and dignity for everyone who has been forced to flee their country in the hope of a better life. It brings together its 193 member countries, civil society, academic institutions and individual citizens around the globe to recognize the beauty in diversity, to support non discrimination and accept the refugees. It helps host communities and refugees and migrants to know each other better.  Canada has set an excellent example by welcoming refugees with open arms. Families there adopt the refugees and help them settle there by providing them with education and employment. Lets Fight Racism: Lets fight Racism is a social media campaign launched by the United Nations to engage with general public. The campaign helps to spread awareness about the need to stop racism. It encourages one to take part by sharing stories, videos and e-cards and also informs about UN's Global Action Plan to combat racism. It also suggests Twitter and Facebook friendly updates that one can share with friends and family to spread the word. It also encourages people to read books written by authors of other races and ethnicity so that we can understand their perspective. In other words it gets us involved in the campaign to fight racism in the world. International Decade for People of African Descent 2015-2024: There are around 200 million people of African descent living in America and millions more living in other parts of the world outside Africa. Studies show that they constitute the marginalized society and have limited access to education, health services and social security. They are often subject to discrimination in their access to justice and face high rates of police violence and racial profiling. The International Decade for People of African Descent is proclaimed by the General Assembly to be observed from 2015 to 2024 and provides a solid framework for the UN and people of African descent to take measures for the implementation of activities that will give them recognition, justice and promote their development. Other than proposing concrete measures to combat racism, xenophobia and related intolerance, it also underlines the important contribution made by people of African descent to the world. While some countries in the world are taking steps to combat racial discrimination, there is still much more left to be done. Our world is reeling under hate crimes and refugee crisis. We need to heal the world and one effective way to do is to speak up against discrimination and let it be known that we oppose it.  When a vulnerable person is abused or bullied we must step in to stop it. Stricter laws should be made to punish the offenders. We are the world and we must remember that people all over the world belonging to different race, colour and religions are actually united by a common thread of inner conscience which underlines feelings of love and togetherness.  

21 Mar 2017

Positive Reads

Star Citizens

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From a Tribal Village to the Top of Africa: Nikhil Kokate’s Climb to Glory!

In a heartwarming tale of determination and perseverance, Nikhil Kisan Kokate, a young tribal mountaineer from Pune, has conquered the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. This remarkable achievement is a reflection of Nikhil's physical and mental strength and also a ray of hope for his community as he becomes its first member to achieve such heights. He is a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.A Childhood Dream Takes FlightNikhil's fascination with mountains began when he was just a Class 2 student. A school trek to Harishchandragad sparked a curiosity in him that would eventually lead him to pursue his passion for mountaineering. Years later, Nikhil's childhood dream turned into a reality as he underwent rigorous training at the prestigious Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) in Darjeeling and the Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure & Eco-Tourism (IHCAE) in Sikkim.Nikhil's journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro was not without its challenges. He had to adapt to new terrains, unpredictable weather conditions, and foreign food that often left him feeling sick. However, it was the thought of his village and the people who believed in him that kept him going, even when doubts crept in. With a final surge of determination, Nikhil pushed forward and stood atop the mighty mountain, feeling an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. Hero's Welcome and a New ChapterUpon returning home, Nikhil was greeted with a hero's welcome, with people from his village and beyond coming to congratulate him on his remarkable achievement. As he basks in the glory of his success, Nikhil is already looking to the future, with plans to conquer more mountains, including Mt Elbrus in Russia, Mt Aconcagua in South America, and the mighty Mt Everest by 2027.Nikhil's success is not just about personal achievement; it's also about giving back to his community. He plans to organise training camps for young mountaineering enthusiasts in Junnar this summer, with the aim of inspiring and guiding the next generation of mountaineers. "I want to change the perception that mountaineering is only for the privileged few," Nikhil says. “I want to show my community that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.”Nikhil Kisan Kokate's inspiring journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is a solid proof  to the power of determination, perseverance, and community support. Though he comes from a tribal community, it was his unshakable self-belief that propelled him toward his dreams. His journey is just the beginning—he now stands as an inspiration for many more to follow.

3 Apr 2025

Star Citizens

India’s Youngest Female T20 International Debutant Player Had Trained as a Boy!

Shafali Verma was only a child when she went to watch Sachin Tendulkar play and had chanted ‘Sachin, Sachin’ on her father’s shoulders. She was very impressed by the cricketing legend and began to nurture a dream of becoming a cricketer and playing for India. Her father, Sanjeev Verma wholeheartedly supported her and decided to seek admission for her into a cricket training academy. However, Shefali and her father were disheartened to know that there were no cricket training academies for girls. They pleaded to the authorities for Shefali’s admission into the existing academies for boys but were turned back. Without losing hope, Sanjeev made up his mind to chop Shefali’s hair and let her dress up like a boy so that she could get admission and train as a boy. Shefali who was only nine years got enrolled in one of the academies as a boy.  She trained very hard with sincerity and devotion. Playing with boys, she was many times bruised and battered, but she didn’t give up, on the contrary, her passion for the game grew by the day. Her proud father, Sanjeev said that Shefali never gave up even though she used to often get hit on the helmet. Many a time, the ball would smash the helmet grill and he would get worried, but the gritty girl continued to play undeterred. Her dedication towards the game saw her amass 1,923 in a superb domestic season. Based on this display of superb performance, she got to represent India in the Women’s T20 International against South Africa last month. She was selected to replace cricket star Mithali Raj who retired from the shortest format of the game. Shefali had a great series and also was instrumental in India’s win in the fourth T20 match against South Africa. While neighbors and relatives taunted her for playing cricket with boys, Shefali just focused on her training without getting distracted by such negative comments. Now those same people are chanting her name! Shefali is determined to cement her place in the side before flourishing across formats. She is only 15 years old and is a class 10 student, but her aim is to play as long as possible for India and keep winning matched for her country. Way to go, girl! Image Source: iDiva

3 Oct 2019

Star Citizens

Good News

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A Sudden Comeback From Years Of Extinction!

A species of golden mole that hasn't been seen in over 80 years has been found again. It was thought to be extinct. The De Winton's golden mole was last observed in 1937, and after much searching, researchers have finally located the cute tiny animal in South Africa's dunes. The golden mole swims through the sand to create inaccessible burrows where it dwells, unlike other moles who find refuge deep in the ground. To begin their hunt for the golden mole, the researchers collected and examined over one hundred sand samples. They did this by looking for environmental DNA (eDNA), which is the animal's DNA that is left behind in its surroundings through excretions, skin cells, and hair. "We were pretty sure that if De Winton's golden mole was out there, we could find it and sequence its DNA," Samantha Mynhardt, a conservation geneticist from Stellenbosch University and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) in South Africa, said in a release. Why 'It' Matters? ~'lost' golden mole spotted for the first time! (Source: Google Images)  There is only one location where the De Winton's golden mole has ever been discovered: Port Nolloth on the northwest coast of South Africa. The research team had to figure out a method to distinguish between more common moles, though, because this region is home to numerous other kinds of golden moles. A trained sniffer dog was released in the area upon discovering new golden mole tracks. The two most prevalent golden moles, the Cape golden mole (Chrysochloris asiatica) and Grant's golden mole (Eremitalpa granti) were the triggers for this dog's training. Given that the dog showed no reaction to the track, it was proof of a more uncommon golden mole. Two additional sets of DNA as well as the DNA of the two common golden moles were discovered upon receipt of the results of the eDNA tests conducted on the 100 samples of sand in Port Nolloth. Two: one is an unidentified one and belongs to the critically endangered Van Zyl's golden mole (Cryptochloris zyli). Although experts believed this belonged to the supposedly extinct De Winton's, they were unable to provide any evidence for this theory. Until a De Winton's golden mole specimen, which is currently housed in the Iziko South African Museum in Cape Town, a DNA sample from the specimen became accessible for analysis. The specimen's genes match the sample's unidentified mole. Back from extinction ~  Golden Mole That Swims through Sand Rediscovered ~ (Source: Google Images)  Since their rediscovery, four more populations of De Winton’s golden mole have been found. Though some researchers always believed they were still out there: “Though many people doubted that De Winton’s golden mole was still out there, I had good faith that the species had not yet gone extinct,” says Cobus Theron, senior conservation manager for EWT and member of the mole search team. “I was convinced it would just take the right detection method, the proper timing, and a team passionate about finding it,” he added. “Now not only have we solved the riddle, but we have tapped into this eDNA frontier where there is a huge amount of opportunity not only for moles but for other lost or imperiled species.” Debunking A Myth ~  Not Actually Moles! Though called after them and bearing an amazing resemblance to moles, golden moles like the De Winton's golden mole aren't really moles at all. These insectivorous mammals are actually more closely related to tenrecs and otter shrews. Indeed, moles and golden moles have a lot in common. Even if they are not closely related, animals can share numerous features due to a phenomenon called evolutionary convergence. They have strong digging claws, like moles, and dwell underground for the majority of their life. They also lack sight. “Fortunately, nature is amazingly resilient: places we have destroyed, given time and help, can once again support life, and endangered species can be given a second chance. And there is a growing number of people, especially young people, who are aware of these problems and are fighting for the survival of our only home, planet Earth. We must all join that fight before it is too late.” – renowned English primatologist Jane Goodall on the threats of biodiversity. 

5 Jul 2024

Good News

Indian Women’s Cricket Team Create History with Record-Breaking Test Total

The Indian women's cricket team achieved a remarkable feat on the second day of the one-off Test against South Africa. They declared their innings at 603/6 which surpassed the previous highest team total in women's Test cricket, set by Australia earlier this year in Perth with 575/9. The Indian team delivered a stunning performance at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. A Record-Breaking Opening Partnership The foundation of India’s record-breaking total was laid by an outstanding opening partnership between Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. The duo shared an iconic stand of 292 runs, the highest opening partnership in women's Test cricket to date. Verma's exceptional innings of 205 runs and Mandhana's solid contribution of 149 runs set the tone for India's dominance. Their synergy and skill left the South African bowling attack struggling to find breakthroughs. Source: Google Images Contributions from the Middle Order Following the stellar opening stand, India’s middle order continued to assert their dominance. Jemimah Rodrigues played a crucial role with a valuable 55 runs, further solidifying the team's position. The captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh remained unbeaten at the crease, both scoring past their respective half-centuries. Their resilience ensured India maintained a commanding position throughout their innings. Historical Single-Day Total India's record-breaking performance was not confined to the second day alone. On the first day of the Test match, they had already etched their names in the history books by posting the highest-ever single-day total in a Test match. Their score of 525/4 surpassed the previous record held by the Sri Lankan men's team, who scored 509/9 against Bangladesh in Colombo in 2002. This incredible feat showcased the depth and strength of the Indian batting lineup. A Milestone in Women's Cricket This historic achievement by the Indian women's cricket team is an evidence of their hard work, dedication, and skill. It highlights the growing competitiveness and talent in women's cricket on the global stage. The players’ outstanding performances have set a new benchmark that will inspire countless young cricketers around the world. As the Test match continues, the Indian team will aim to maintain their dominance and secure a memorable victory. The record-breaking total of 603/6 declared not only demonstrates their prowess but will also boosts their confidence for future matches.

1 Jul 2024

Good News

India Triumphs in Thrilling T20 World Cup Victory Over South Africa

In a nail-biting finish, India secured their second T20 World Cup title and their first since 2007 with a seven-run victory over South Africa in Barbados. The match was marked by breathtaking moments and stellar performances, including Suryakumar Yadav's extraordinary catch. History doesn't always repeat itself India's T20 triumph comes just seven months after their heartbreaking loss in the 50-over World Cup final to Australia in Ahmedabad. Despite their strong performance throughout that tournament, their only defeat came in the final match. This victory in the T20 World Cup serves as a remarkable comeback and showcases the team’s resilience and determination. South Africa's Strong Start South Africa, playing in their first World Cup final in any format after eight attempts, seemed on track to chase down India's target of 177. Heinrich Klaasen's explosive 52 off 27 balls, including a 24-run over against Axar Patel, brought the equation down to 30 runs needed from 30 balls.  Bumrah and Pandya Turn the Tide The game’s turning point came through India’s death bowling. Jasprit Bumrah (2-18) was instrumental, conceding only six runs in the 16th and 18th overs combined. Hardik Pandya (3-20) added to the pressure by dismissing Klaasen, reducing South Africa’s chances significantly. Arshdeep Singh's tight 19th over, yielding just four runs, left the Proteas needing 16 off the final six balls. Source: Google Images Suryakumar Yadav's Game-Changing Catch David Miller, attempting to revive South Africa’s hopes, thought he had smashed Pandya's full toss for a six. However, Suryakumar Yadav's athleticism shone through. In a jaw-dropping moment, Yadav caught the ball at long-off, threw it back into play mid-air to avoid stepping over the boundary, and then completed the catch after re-entering the field. This spectacular feat shifted the momentum firmly in India's favor. Source: Google Images A Final Push With the pressure mounting, South Africa could only add eight more runs, finishing on 169-8. This result made India the first team to remain unbeaten throughout an entire Men's T20 World Cup tournament, dashing South Africa's dream of achieving the same milestone. Kohli's Resurgence in the Final Earlier in the match, Player of the Match Virat Kohli (76 off 59 balls) played a crucial role in anchoring India's innings. Having struggled throughout the tournament with an average of less than 11, Kohli found his form at the perfect time. His composed innings helped India recover from a precarious 34-3 in the fifth over. Kohli's partnership with Axar Patel (47 off 31) was vital, with the pair adding 72 runs for the fourth wicket, steering India to a competitive total of 176-7. Source: Google Images India Sets a New Benchmark India's total of 176-7 became the highest score in a Men's T20 World Cup final, surpassing the 173-2 scored by Australia against New Zealand in the 2021 final. Despite Keshav Maharaj (2-23) and Anrich Nortje (2-26) keeping India's scoring in check, the foundation laid by Kohli and Patel proved crucial. Next Major Event As the cricketing world looks ahead, the next major event is the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, followed by another T20 World Cup in early 2026 in India and Bangladesh. Additionally, the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup will take place in Bangladesh, beginning on October 3 and concluding on October 20 in Dhaka. India's victory in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa was a blend of strategic brilliance and individual heroics. From Kohli’s return to form to Yadav’s sensational catch, every element contributed to a memorable win. 

30 Jun 2024

Good News

India Makes History As It Wins the Inaugural U19 Women’s T20 WC Beating England

The Women’s Under-19 Indian cricket team created history as they emerged as World Cup champions on Sunday, after a comprehensive victory over England in Potchefstroom in South Africa. The key to India's march to victory was again another superb use of the ball, with Titas Sadhu setting the tone and the spinners turning in yet another telling effort when it mattered.  The fine bowling was supplemented by outstanding fielding. The Indian ranks' unwavering resolve was best exemplified by the dismissal of England's captain, Grace Scrivens. When the left-hander hit Archana at long-off, Gongadi Trisha rushed in to make a great, falling catch. In many respects, it was the crucial wicket, as evidenced by the Indian jubilation. Even though Scrivens would later win the tournament's player of the year award, she would have sacrificed all of that for a stronger English batting performance. When Shafali Verma won the toss and decided to bowl, Sadhu had a winning over. Her figures of two for 6 in four overs deservedly earned her the Player of the Match award with just the start that India craved. She was backed up well by Archana (two for 17) and the irrepressible Parshavi Chopra, who snared two for 13 to close out a terrific tournament offering.  After dismissing Verma (15) and Shweta Sehrawat (5) in the first four overs, England's expectations for more miraculous bowling performances were increased. However, Verma smashed a four and a six in an attempt to put pressure on England early. Trisha and Soumya Tiwari weren't having any of it. Trisha became more and more fluent as the goal moved closer while Tiwari smashed three fours in her 24 not out from 37 balls. She attempted to end it in style, but Alexa Stonehouse bowled to end her 29-ball stay at 24. Soon after, the match was over, and India could finally celebrate their triumphant victory in South Africa. They came, they saw, and they won the newest trophy for women's cricket.

30 Jan 2023

Good News

The Whys and Hows

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Discover How Tiny Ants Are Protecting Zebras in East Africa Against Lions!

A "chain reaction" involving invading ants is causing lions to kill fewer zebras ~ Everything seems to be in place to stop a lion from pursuing a zebra. However, scientists have just found that ants, a little enemy, are impeding these massive predators. Researchers have discovered that the proliferation of big-headed ants in east Africa causes a chain reaction that reduces the number of zebras killed by lions. The Reasoning Behind This Shift:  Acacia trees used to be much more abundant. They filled the Savannah 20 years ago. Native acacia ants used these trees for food and shelter; in exchange, the ants protected the trees from predators such as elephants, who would otherwise consume them. These native ants would climb up the inside of elephant trunks and bite them when the elephants grabbed them. An invading ant then disrupted their relationship, triggering a chain reaction of events that continues to this day, affecting elephant behavior and lion diets.  Despite their small size (about one-third that of native acacia ants), these big-headed ants are vicious. When they come into touch with native ant populations, they totally eradicate them, generating massive supercolonies of hundreds of millions of ants. As a result, elephants may be more likely to attack undefended acacia trees. The elephants have been uprooting branches and toppling trees. Zebras, the lions' principal food source, are becoming increasingly difficult to capture in the park as a result of the changing topography. The lion's hunting methods are mostly predicated on surprise. They hide behind trees, stalk their victims, and then strike. Zebras can see approaching lions in open regions, allowing them more time to run. About the Research:  Subsequently, the researchers constructed a computer model grounded on field observations to investigate potential effects of big-headed ants and improved visibility on zebra mobility, zebra death sites, and lion activity. The researchers discovered that zebra killings were nearly three times more common in low-visibility areas devoid of big-headed ants than in high-visibility areas with their presence. However, the research excluded a connection to lion activity or zebra population, indicating that the decrease in kills is most likely caused by the lions' increased visibility to their victims. While the percentage of buffalo killings by lions increased from 0% to 42% between 2003 and 2020, the percentage of zebra kills by lions decreased from 67% to 42%. The work provides a crucial window into the way that breaking a mutualism might affect an ecosystem as a whole. In the end, maintaining healthy ecosystems necessitates not just preventing the extinction of species but also identifying and protecting the most significant relationships among them. Taking Care Of The Apex Pradetor :  Along with recording these changes, the study team—which includes Douglas Kamaru from the University of Wyoming and Corinna Riginos from The Nature Conservancy—is also looking for ways to lessen the impact that invading ants have on tree populations. Temporary fence is one strategy being considered to shield trees from huge animals. The foundation of their long-term study has been conventional fieldwork, which has proven valuable despite technological advancements. This study was born out of driving around in Land Rovers in the mud for thirty years, highlighting the need of practical research in comprehending and protecting the natural world. The study emphasizes how ecosystems have a delicate balance and the significant impact that even the tiniest alterations may have on the survival of iconic species like the African lion!

9 Feb 2024

The Whys and Hows

Global Inspirations

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3 African nations to get world's first malaria vaccine

The world’s first notably effective malaria vaccine is ready and will be distributed in 3 African countries - Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi to save the life of thousands who suffer from malaria. This is the first malaria vaccine to have successfully completed a Phase III clinical trial and the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa is introducing the RTS,S to Africa. The RTS,S vaccine counters the malaria parasite by training the immune system to attack it. It needs to be given four times-once a month for three months and then a fourth dose 18 months later. The WHO came up with the vaccine through tightly controlled and well funded clinical trials. It  is running pilots in three countries to see if a full malaria vaccine programme could be started. The safety and effectiveness of the vaccine will also be assessed on a regular basis. The WHO chose Ghana, Kenya and Malawi because large programmes to tackle malaria are already in full swing there, including the use of bed nets, yet there exists high number of cases. The maximum number of cases of malaria is in Africa. Global efforts have helped to bring down the deaths due to malaria by 62% in the period between 2000 and 2015. Yet, there were cases of 4,29,000 deaths due to the disease in 2015 and most of them were young children in Africa.    

26 Apr 2017

Global Inspirations