Trump supporters storm Capitol, clash with police, 4 dead; Biden says ‘unprecedented assault’ on democracy

Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, the Taliban's acting deputy foreign minister, delivered a powerful plea to his senior leadership, urging them to reopen schools for Afghan girls. In a speech that resonated as one of the strongest criticisms of the Taliban’s policies on female education, Stanekzai emphasized the injustice and non-compliance with Islamic Sharia law that the current restrictions represent.

“We request the leaders of the Islamic Emirate to open the doors of education,” he declared, invoking the teachings of Islam. “In the time of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), the doors of knowledge were open to both men and women.” His words underscored the historical precedence and religious justification for granting education to all.

Stanekzai did not shy away from highlighting the gravity of the issue. “Today, out of a population of forty million, we are committing injustice against twenty million people,” he stated, pointing to the female population of Afghanistan who remain deprived of their fundamental right to education.

His remarks come as a rare public rebuke of the Taliban’s ongoing school closures for girls, a policy that has faced internal disagreements and widespread international criticism. Sources indicate that the decision was enforced by the Taliban’s supreme spiritual leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, despite opposition within the group.

The Taliban’s shifting stance on women’s education has drawn sharp condemnation globally. After initially promising to reopen high schools for girls in 2022, they reversed course, leaving the doors of secondary education and universities firmly closed to female students. The administration has claimed it is working on a plan for reopening these institutions but has yet to announce any concrete timeline.

Stanekzai’s speech adds to the chorus of criticism from Islamic scholars and the international community, who have called for the Taliban to honor women’s rights in accordance with Islamic principles. Western diplomats have made it clear that formal recognition of the Taliban government hinges on significant policy changes, particularly in the area of women’s education.

As of now, there has been no immediate response from a Taliban spokesman in Kandahar, where Haibatullah Akhundzada resides, regarding Stanekzai’s statements.
 

Los Angeles wildfires have continued their trail of devastation, razing death tolls to 24 and destroying thousands of structures, while intensifying winds are worsening the situation for both civilians and firefighters.

In an update on Sunday evening, the County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner said a total of 24 people have died due to the wildfires.

According to the examiner, this number is only an estimate as hundreds of people in various parts of the county are still missing.

Weather forecasters in California are also warning fierce winds which fuelled the infernos around Los Angeles are expected to pick up again this week.

The notoriously dry Santa Ana winds would pick up again from Sunday night until Wednesday, reaching speeds of up to 96km/h, they said.

The most dangerous day will be Tuesday, said weather service meteorologist Rich Thompson. “You are going to have really strong gusty Santa Ana winds, a very dry atmosphere and still very dry brush, so we still have some very critical fire weather conditions out there,” he added.

On Saturday, the flames spread east, creeping closer to Interstate 405 and a busy mountain pass. This is a “significant development,” said L.A. County spokesman Jesus Ruiz.

With the fire rapidly growing and moving in the direction of “a heavily populated area … we are definitely concerned,” he continued.

Gavin Newsom, governor of California said that he believes that in terms of costs associated with the wildfire, it will be the worst natural disaster in terms scale and scope in the history of the US, and the fatalities is likely to increase significantly as well.

On Sunday, private forecaster Accuweather increased its preliminary estimate of financial losses from the blazes to between $250 billion to $275 billion. The wildfires are on track to be among the costliest in US history.

Nestled in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is often celebrated for its breathtaking biodiversity and unique culture. But beyond its natural wonders lies an untapped economic powerhouse, ready to emerge as one of Africa’s most exciting investment destinations. 

With its wealth of natural resources, strategic location, and improving economic policies, Madagascar is quietly stepping onto the global stage as an investment hotspot.

Let’s dive into why savvy investors are now setting their sights on this island nation.

Madagascar’s Goldmine of Opportunities

Imagine a land so abundant in natural resources that it supplies 80% of the world’s vanilla and holds some of the largest reserves of cobalt and graphite on the planet. Welcome to Madagascar, a nation where nature’s wealth fuels immense potential across industries.

Beneath Madagascar’s surface lie vast deposits of nickel, cobalt, and ilmenite, critical materials for batteries and electric vehicles. As the world pivots toward renewable energy, Madagascar is poised to become a linchpin in the global green transition, supplying the essential minerals needed for a sustainable future.

Vanilla may be Madagascar’s crown jewel, but it’s far from the only treasure. The island’s fertile soil also yields coffee, cloves, and lychee, creating endless possibilities for agribusiness. From modernizing farm practices to scaling farm-to-factory operations and export-oriented farming, the agricultural sector is ripe for innovation and investment.

Off its coasts, Madagascar’s waters teem with seafood, including tuna and shrimp, offering significant potential for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. With the right investments, these marine resources could not only meet global demand but also position Madagascar as a leader in eco-friendly seafood production.

From mining to agriculture and marine wealth, Madagascar is a land of untapped opportunities, ready to reward those bold enough to invest in its future.

Madagascar’s Secret Weapon: Location, Location, Location

In the world of business, geography plays a pivotal role, and Madagascar stands out as a strategic gem. Positioned as a vital link between Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, its prime location offers unparalleled access to bustling international shipping routes. This advantage significantly reduces costs for export-oriented businesses while providing a logistical edge for global supply chains. 

For investors, Madagascar serves as a gateway to high-growth economies, making it an ideal hub for international trade and commerce.

A Business Makeover: From Challenges to Opportunities

Madagascar’s journey has had its share of challenges, but the tides are shifting toward progress and opportunity. The government is actively implementing reforms to attract foreign investment, including streamlining business processes, introducing tax incentives, and enhancing property laws. 

While political instability once posed hurdles, recent years have marked a commitment to governance and economic transformation. With GDP growth averaging around 5%, Madagascar is on a promising trajectory, driven by investments in infrastructure, mining, and agriculture, signaling a brighter future for its economy.

Building the Backbone: Infrastructure Renaissance

Infrastructure is the cornerstone of a nation’s growth, and Madagascar is making significant strides to unlock its potential. Major upgrades to roads, railways, and ports are enhancing connectivity, streamlining the movement of goods across the country and into global markets. 

In the energy sector, a renewable revolution is underway, with investments in solar and wind projects aiming to electrify more homes and industries in a country where only 15% of the population currently has access to electricity. 

Meanwhile, the expansion of internet and mobile connectivity is laying the foundation for a digital transformation, fueling e-commerce and tech startups. Every road paved, port modernized, and cable laid strengthens Madagascar’s position on the global stage.

Tourism: Where Nature Meets Opportunity

Madagascar’s breathtaking natural beauty isn’t just a visual delight—it’s a treasure trove of opportunities for eco-tourism and hospitality investors. Imagine an eco-lodge nestled near the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs or a boutique resort overlooking the pristine, turquoise waters of Nosy Be. The possibilities are boundless. 

With its unique biodiversity, including endemic species like the lemur, Madagascar is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Yet, its tourism infrastructure remains underdeveloped, presenting an untapped market ripe for visionary investors to shape the future of sustainable travel in this stunning destination.

Manufacturing and Trade: A Rising Star in Textiles

Here’s a little-known fact: Madagascar is emerging as a rising star in the textile industry, powered by strategic trade agreements like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). This agreement allows Malagasy-made garments to be exported to the U.S. duty-free, offering a significant cost advantage over competitors and making the island an attractive hub for apparel manufacturing.  

Adding to its appeal is Madagascar’s young and skilled labor force, ready to meet the demands of light manufacturing industries. With its competitive workforce and favorable trade terms, Madagascar is carving out a niche in the global textile market. For businesses seeking to capitalize on these opportunities, the island offers a compelling mix of cost efficiency and market access, making it an ideal destination for investment in this sector.

Green Investments: A Sustainable Playground

For investors seeking ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) opportunities, Madagascar is a compelling choice. Its unique position allows conservation efforts to align seamlessly with profitability, as eco-tourism and biodiversity projects provide avenues to generate returns while preserving the environment. 

Additionally, Madagascar’s rich and dense forests offer immense potential for carbon credit initiatives, enabling investors to contribute to global sustainability goals while tapping into a growing market. In Madagascar, doing good and achieving growth go hand in hand.

Backed by Global Heavyweights

Madagascar’s transformation is powered by strong international partnerships, positioning it as a rising player on the global stage. The World Bank and IMF are funding large-scale infrastructure projects and driving economic reforms to catalyze growth. 

Major private sector players, including Rio Tinto and Sherritt International, have already recognized the potential, investing in mining and other critical industries. Adding to its allure, trade agreements grant Madagascar access to European, African, and American markets, amplifying its appeal as a hub for global business.

The Challenges: A Work in Progress
Of course, no investment is without risks. Madagascar faces hurdles like:
●    Climate Vulnerability: Prone to cyclones and droughts, which can disrupt operations.
●    Corruption and Bureaucracy: While reforms are underway, navigating red tape can still be tricky.
●    Infrastructure Gaps: Despite progress, roads, energy supply, and logistics remain areas needing further development.
But here’s the silver lining: each challenge represents an opportunity for investors willing to play the long game.

A Future Full of Promise

Madagascar isn’t just another African nation competing for attention—it’s a country on the brink of a remarkable transformation. With the right mix of natural resources, a strategic location connecting Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, and a government actively pursuing investor-friendly reforms, Madagascar is poised to become a major economic player. Its rich reserves of minerals, vast arable land for agriculture, unique biodiversity, and untapped tourism potential make it a land of unparalleled opportunities.

Unlike the usual suspects in Africa, Madagascar stands out as a frontier market waiting to be explored. Mining companies can tap into its vast deposits of nickel, cobalt, and other minerals. Agricultural investors can harness its fertile soil to produce high-value crops like vanilla and coffee. 

Tourism entrepreneurs can build sustainable ventures amid its pristine landscapes, from the Avenue of the Baobabs to the vibrant coral reefs of Nosy Be. Even tech innovators will find fertile ground as the nation expands its digital infrastructure.

But investing in a frontier market requires the right support, and that’s where Madagascar Invest steps in. From navigating local regulations and securing permits to helping you register a company in Madagascar and ensuring a smooth setup, Madagascar Invest provides end-to-end services for investors looking to make their mark.

The world is waking up to Madagascar’s immense potential, and the window of opportunity is now. The question is, will you seize it and be part of this extraordinary rise? Madagascar isn’t just a destination, it’s the next big frontier for those bold enough to look beyond the ordinary.