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Siena hosts Phillips and AlbanyThe Prison Officers’ Association (POA) said it supported the Scottish Government Bill which brings forward the point at which offenders serving shorter sentences become eligible for automatic early release. Under the plans, between 260 and 390 prisoners are to be released by early February, in three tranches over six weeks. The Bill changes the automatic release point for sentences of four years or less from 50% to 40% of their term – although those convicted of sexual or domestic violence would be excluded. It also includes the power for ministers to change the early release point again in future through regulation – which can only be voted on in Holyrood rather than amended. Last week, support from SNP and Green MSPs meant the Bill passed its first stage – with the final two stages of the legislative process completed on Tuesday, with Holyrood sitting late as a result. Labour, the Tories and the Liberal Democrats voted against the legislation. The vote was 67 in favour, 54 against and none abstained. It comes as prisoner numbers in Scotland have increased despite 477 offenders being released early this summer, with ministers using emergency measures in a bid to try to tackle overcrowding. Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “We have experienced a significant rise in our prison population in recent times. “This means that without intervention, there is a risk that prisons will no longer be safe places for the dedicated staff to carry out the important work of rehabilitation to reduce reoffending. “That is why this Bill is backed by both the Prison Officers’ Association and the Prison Governors Association. “The measures in this Bill will bring about a sustained reduction in the prison population as well as relieve some of the acute pressure currently being experienced within our prison estate. “We need the prison system to focus on those who pose the greatest risk to the public and provide a range of support to help reduce reoffending and integration back into the community. “I am very aware that victims and their families will have concerns and we will continue to work closely with victim support organisations throughout the process.” Scottish Conservative shadow justice secretary Liam Kerr MSP said: “The SNP’s reckless plan to release hundreds more prisoners is a weak surrender to criminals. “They have railroaded this through Parliament without a moment’s thought for victims or public safety. “Ministers have also turned a blind eye to the concerns raised by senior police officers, over how many prisoners released previously went onto quickly re-offend. “This bill sums up how disconnected the SNP are from the public. The public want them to show some common sense and ensure prisoners serve their sentences in full. “SNP ministers must accept that this is a crisis of their own making. Rather than regularly carrying out prisoner release schemes, they must look at alternatives to tackle overcrowding, including the deportation of foreign criminals taking up place in Scotland’s jails.” Labour’s Pauline McNeill said the passing of the Bill was a “sad day for criminal justice” now that prisoners on short-term sentences would be released after serving only two fifths of the sentence imposed. While she accepted high prisoner numbers had led to a “crisis” in Scotland’s jails, she said the legislation had “no governor’s veto to provide a safeguard”. She branded the Bill a “short-term fix for current problems” adding that “we do not know for how long the crisis will last, but the policy will remain”. McNeill also voiced concerns about the legislation giving powers to ministers which could “potentially radically change” the release system for longer-term prisoners, serving sentences of more than four years. The MSP insisted “much closer scrutiny” should have been applied before such changes were made. “I don’t accept this is the way we should do legislation in this Parliament,” Ms McNeill added. Liberal Democrat justice spokesperson Liam McArthur also spoke out against this, saying it would reduce the future role Holyrood would have in scrutinising such changes. “That for me, for the Scottish Liberal Democrats is a step too far,” he said. However Green MSP Maggie Chapman argued that reducing prisoner numbers would allow staff in jails more time to work with offenders to reduce reoffending rates. She told MSPs: “If we are serious about rehabilitation, we must make space and time for it to happen. “That requires staff, and that requires space and I believe that requires this Bill.” The Association of Scottish Police Superintendents (Asps) said it had “grave concerns” about the early release of prisoners. ASPS president Rob Hay noted that when 477 prisoners had been released early in June and July of this year, more than 10% ended up back in prison “within weeks” because of offending, with some “having committed violent offences”. He said: “The public are being put at risk. Every crime committed and every victim who suffered at the hands of those criminals represent an avoidable consequence of this misguided Scottish Government policy. “To release prisoners early, knowing further offending is likely to occur, piles pressure on a police service already stretched to breaking under unsustainable demand. “The only comfort I can offer the public is that where police officers encounter released prisoners who remain involved in crime, we’ll do all we can to ensure they end up back in custody, where they belong.” Get all the latest news from around the country Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the countryFrom Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja The National Economic Council (NEC) has committed to enhancing the implementation of the National Electrification Strategy to address the persistent failures of Nigeria’s power grid. Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chairs the NEC, stressed that access to electricity is a fundamental right essential for economic growth, likening it to “the oxygen of economic growth.” This initiative aims to ensure broader energy access across the nation, reflecting the government’s dedication to improving the electricity supply and supporting economic development efforts in Nigeria. According to a statement issued by the VP’s media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the Council has accordingly constituted a committee on National Electrification to help address the challenges in the power sector. He said the formation of the committee was among the decisions taken by NEC at the end of its 146th meeting on Thursday, chaired by Shettima at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. A committee headed by the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, has been set up to enhance state engagement with the Electricity Reform Act 2023 and the National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan. According to the statement, the establishment of the committee followed a presentation from the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), highlighting the necessity for a reformed and diversified electricity system in Nigeria. The NEC emphasised that empowering states will facilitate improved accessibility and affordability of electricity, enabling all regions to effectively address their unique energy requirements. Other members of the committee include Governors Dikko Radda of Katsina, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Hope Uzodimma of Imo, and Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau. Also included are the Ministers of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Power, Adebayo Adelabu; Special Adviser to the President on NEC and Climate Change; Special Adviser to the President on Power; Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA); and Managing Director of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company. Shettima identified several pressing issues that the council must address, including energy infrastructure, human capital development, creative industries, fiscal strategy, industrial innovation, and long-term development planning. He emphasised that these areas are essential for Nigeria’s transformation. To facilitate this, he announced that experts and stakeholders from key sectors have been invited to share their insights and contributions during upcoming discussions. He stated, “The past few months of collapses in our national power grid compel us to reinforce the pace with which we are adopting and implementing the National Electrification Strategy. Energy access is a fundamental right, not a privilege. It is the oxygen of economic growth. “Our blueprints must, therefore, strive to expand access, empower rural communities, and drive productivity, especially for MSMEs. I hope that our discussions today will inspire solutions to light up homes, power businesses, and fuel Nigeria’s industrial future. “Whatever path we agree upon, it is clear that a private-sector-led distributed renewable energy generation approach is essential to increasing electricity access for households and small enterprises alike.” The Vice President also urged the Council to take Nigeria’s creative industry seriously, saying it presents an avenue to redefine the nation’s economic trajectory. According to him, “New technologies have not only amplified the global appeal of our arts, crafts, and culture but also opened up revenue streams and job opportunities for Nigerians. “Our music, films, art, and cultural heritage are not just global symbols of Nigeria’s soft power but also vital engines of economic growth. We cannot afford to relegate the promise of turning creativity into wealth, empowering our youth, and positioning Nigeria as a hub of innovation and cultural excellence,” he added. Key highlights of the meeting included a presentation by the Accountant General of the Federation, who provided an update on account balances as of November 20, 2024. The Excess Crude Account stands at $473,754.57, while the Stabilization Account holds N33,324,135,076.39. Additionally, the Natural Resources Account has a balance of N26,847,747,874.93. The meeting also featured a presentation from the National Programme Coordinator for Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs), Kabir Yusuf, who discussed the initiatives and objectives of the SAPZ programme. The programme is currently being implemented at varying stages in eight states of the federation, namely: Kano, Kaduna, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Imo, Cross River, and FCT, under phase 1 of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones. Under the second phase, a total of 24 states were visited by the selection team to assess their readiness for the programme. The implementation model is a government and private sector-led (SPV) arrangement; hence, discussions are underway to partner with private developers and co-financiers on the project, estimated to cost about $1 billion. The SAPZ coordinating office is working out a multi-tranche financing arrangement to accommodate additional states over the next three years. It is structured in three tranches. Key prayers and resolutions were outlined regarding the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) initiative. Participants called for the provision of intervention funds to enhance each state’s Agricultural Transformation Centers (ATC) and urged the Office of the Vice President to leverage its influence to secure additional co-financing for the second phase of SAPZ (SAPZ-2). They also emphasised the need to expedite the $300 million multi-tranche financing from BADEA through the Federal Ministry of Finance. The Council urged states to actively engage with the SAPZ programme, highlighting its potential as a transformative initiative if adequately supported. Additionally, states were encouraged to convene a special meeting with the Minister of Agriculture and SAPZ management to address concerns and requests raised during the presentation. The Minister of Finance presented a request to the National Economic Council (NEC) to ratify the nominations for the chairman and members of the governing council of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA). Once appointed, these members will have the opportunity to engage with the Board and Management of the NSIA, raising questions and providing counsel. The Council commended NSIA’s management for its crucial role in investing in key economic sectors and approved the Authority’s request to onboard First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) as an alternate custodian. Additionally, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) showcased the agency’s latest innovations, including a solar irrigation pump, electric vehicles, coal-based fertilizer, solar home systems, and smart devices. The Council urged states to utilise NASENI’s tailored support for manufacturing and industrial development to foster economic growth. It also directed NASENI to repair agricultural machinery nationwide and expand the establishment of lithium battery factories in resource-rich regions.ace888 casino

Unrivaled, the new 3-on-3 women's basketball league launching this winter, signed LSU star guard Flau'jae Johnson to a name, image and likeness deal. Johnson is the second college player to ink an agreement with Unrivaled, following UConn's Paige Bueckers. They won't be participating in the upcoming inaugural season, but Johnson and Bueckers will have equity stakes in the league. Unrivaled dropped a video on social media Thursday showing Johnson -- who also has a burgeoning rap career -- performing a song while wearing a shirt that reads, "The Future is Unrivaled." The deal will see Johnson create additional promotional content for the league. Johnson, 21, was a freshman on the LSU team that won the 2023 national championship. Now in her junior year, Johnson is averaging career highs of 22.2 points, 6.0 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game through 10 games for the No. 5 Tigers (10-0). She ranks eighth in Division I in scoring. Johnson has career averages of 14.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game in 82 career appearances (80 starts) for LSU. --Field Level Media

Jordan Sears scores 25 points, Jalen Reed has double-double and LSU outlasts UCF 109-102 in 3OT

Snap Inc. stock remains steady Tuesday, underperforms market{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "NewsArticle", "dateCreated": "2024-11-27T01:06:24+02:00", "datePublished": "2024-11-27T01:06:24+02:00", "dateModified": "2024-11-27T01:06:23+02:00", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/22140/news/featured/equity-bank-rwanda-usaid-ireme-partner-to-boost-healthcare-financing", "headline": "Equity Bank Rwanda, USAID Ireme partner to boost healthcare financing", "description": "Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, in collaboration with USAID Ireme, has embarked on an initiative to support healthcare providers across the country in addressing...", "keywords": "Equity Bank Rwanda,Health care providers,USAID Ireme", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/22140/news/featured/equity-bank-rwanda-usaid-ireme-partner-to-boost-healthcare-financing" }, "thumbnailUrl": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/thenewtimes/uploads/images/2024/11/27/64906.jpg", "image": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/thenewtimes/uploads/images/2024/11/27/64906.jpg" }, "articleBody": "Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, in collaboration with USAID Ireme, has embarked on an initiative to support healthcare providers across the country in addressing key challenges in the health sector, such as ensuring reliable, effective, and internationally standardized services. Recognizing that affordable and high-quality healthcare remains a pressing concern, the partnership aims to empower private healthcare facilities to deliver these services while indirectly helping patients overcome common barriers, such as expensive medical treatment, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to financing. Such issues were highlighted on November 26 during a workshop that brought together private healthcare providers from across Rwanda. ALSO READ: Equity Bank Rwanda launches new healthcare financing products The discussions focused on raising awareness about those products which are designed to help businesses operate in a conducive environment while delivering high-quality services to their clients. As part of its efforts to relieve financial challenges in the health sector, Equity Bank Rwanda has introduced healthcare financing products with reduced interest rates. According to Jean Havugimana, the Head of SME at Equity Bank Rwanda, most of these loans, now available at an annual interest rate of 16 per cent, are lower than the standard rates, which can reach up to 19 per cent annually. Also, the bank has addressed the issue of collateral, a common hurdle for many healthcare providers. “Most of the newly designed products no longer require collateral, making financing more accessible and inclusive”. “We want to ensure that financing is not a barrier but a solution to the challenges faced by healthcare providers. Our products are designed to meet their specific needs quickly and efficiently,” said Jean Havugimana. ALSO READ: Equity Bank, Pact Rwanda team up to empower small-scale miners Among the key offerings highlighted was the “Tang’ubuzima Loan”, which caters to a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, including private hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, laboratories, healthcare wholesalers, and manufacturers. “Invoice Discount” is another key product according to Havugimana, offered by the bank to assist healthcare providers. Typically, insurance companies take two to three months to pay healthcare providers. With this product, the bank advances funds to healthcare providers while they await payments from insurers. Once the insurers pay, the healthcare providers repay the bank. “This prevents disruptions in operations by ensuring providers have funds to purchase supplies and pay salaries. It’s a highly appreciated product that came at the right time,” said Havugimana. Another product is the “Letter of Credit”, which supports healthcare providers when they need to order expensive medical equipment but lack immediate funds. The bank pays the supplier on their behalf, fostering trust between both parties and ensuring the client receives the equipment with all necessary requirements. “The bank can take on a ‘risk appetite’ of up to 20 per cent. This means if a borrower requests Rwf100,000 and has collateral covering at least 80 per cent of the loan, the bank can approve the full amount requested.” Other products highlighted include “Stock Financing”, which helps businesses refill stock when it runs out, and “Asset Financing”, which enables them to purchase expensive equipment such as MRI machines, dental operation tools, maternity machines, and more. These and other products were presented to participants in the healthcare supply chain. ALSO READ: How Equity Bank is unlocking Rwanda’s agri-export potential However, during the event, participants raised concerns, primarily about high interest rates and the lengthy process of loan approvals. Addressing the issue of delays, Havugimana assured that under this program, loan approvals will now be processed within few days, providing timely support for critical healthcare projects, something that will make improvement from the previous extended timelines. However, he urged them to adopt the use of Point of Sale (POS) systems, where customers make payments for purchases, and the system processes those payments. According to Havugimana, this helps the bank maintain deposits, which in turn allows it to generate funds for lending to others. “Anyone who uses Equity Bank’s POS is eligible for loans ranging from Rwf40 million to Rwf70 million without requiring collateral. This offer applies to everyone, not just healthcare providers. We encourage everyone to adopt this system as it also reduces costs associated with printing new currency notes when needed,” he explained.", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Frank Ntarindwa" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/", "sameAs": ["https://www.facebook.com/TheNewTimesRwanda/","https://twitter.com/NewTimesRwanda","https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuZbZj6DF9zWXpdZVceDZkg"], "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "/theme_newtimes/images/logo.png", "width": 270, "height": 57 } }, "copyrightHolder": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/" } }A powerful rebel group has seized a key trading town in northeastern Myanmar on the Chinese border, taking control of a lucrative rare earth mining hub in another setback for the military-led government, according to witnesses. The apparent loss of Kanpaiti to the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) leaves Myanmar’s military in control of only one town with a border crossing, Muse, and deprives it of potential profits from the mines that provide China with rare earth minerals critical for electric motors and wind turbines, as well as high-tech weapons and a broad range of electronics. Neither Col. Naw Bu, the KIA’s spokesperson, nor Thet Swe, the spokesperson for the military, responded to multiple requests for comment, but several local media outlets reported that Kanpaiti fell last week. The ongoing civil war and military restrictions make travel for journalists nearly impossible, but the reports were confirmed by witnesses by telephone. Video clips circulating on social media, which could not be independently verified, showed what was said to be a KIA member raising the group’s flag at the tunnel through the mountain to China. Other clips showed a vast quantity of weapons allegedly captured by the KIA. The military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021, triggering intensified fighting with long-established armed militias organised by Myanmar’s ethnic minority groups in its border regions which have struggled for decades for more autonomy. The once-mighty armed forces, known as the Tatmadaw, have suffered a series of unprecedented defeats over the past year, especially in areas to the east near the Chinese border and in the western state of Rakhine, after an alliance of three powerful militias launched a coordinated offensive on Oct. 27, 2023. Since then, other militias organised along ethnic lines have joined in, including the KIA in the northern state of Kachin. In Kachin’s so-called Special Region 1, where Kanpaiti is located, the KIA since late September has been increasing assaults on a rival ethnic militia, the New Democratic Army-Kachin, which is allied with the government military and had provided border guard forces. The NDA-K also controlled the web of small, unlicensed operations where heavy rare earth elements are mined, then sold directly to China’s big state-owned mining conglomerates or through intermediaries. There are more than 300 unregulated mines in the area, producing most of the $1.4 billion in rare earths for sale to China last year “at a terrible cost to the environment and local communities,” according to a report issued by London-based environmental group Global Witness in May. It’s not clear how much of the profits flowed to the military government, and how much directly to the NDA-K, however, and while the loss of any revenue stream would be bad for the military, the fall of Kanpaiti is not necessarily a game changer for the overall conflict, said Morgan Michaels, a Singapore-based analyst with the International Institute of Strategic Studies who runs its Myanmar Conflict Map project. “This is another series of embarrassing losses for the regime but may not significantly affect the regime’s ability to wage war,” he said. “China had already shut most of the border to dissuade the KIA’s offensives, and the regime is thought to primarily generate revenue through other means than rare earths.” China was able to use its close ties to the regime and the Three Brotherhood Alliance groups to broker a ceasefire in January in northern Shan state, where much of the fighting has been. Hostilities resumed five months later after the ethnic alliance said the military had violated the ceasefire and has shown no signs of stopping, despite intense pressure from Beijing. China has likewise been pushing the KIA in Kachin to end the fighting, which has stopped cross-border trade, to little end. In its September push, the KIA was able to quickly seize four towns in Kachin, with the exception of Kanpaiti, including the NDA-K headquarters of Pang War. KIA forces advanced toward Kanpaiti on Nov. 20, and since consolidating control have called for the hundreds of residents who fled to return, a local community leader said, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of arrest. The report was confirmed by a spokesperson for Kachin Human Rights Watch, which is not affiliated with the New York-based watchdog group of a similar name, and a resident who saw the KIA troops enter the town. Both spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of arrest by authorities. Multiple Kachin-based news outlets and other Myanmar media reported that 300 government troops were able to escape by fleeing into China, then crossing back into Myanmar at the regime-controlled border town of Muse. Kachin Human Rights Watch’s spokesperson said he had reports of regime soldiers fleeing to safety but did not have further details. Published - November 27, 2024 03:00 am IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit Myanmar / military equipment / mining / economy, business and finance

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Daily Post Nigeria Yan sanda ne suka harbi kanwar gwamnan Taraba bisa kuskure – Zagazola Makama Home News Politics Metro Entertainment Sport Hausa Yan sanda ne suka harbi kanwar gwamnan Taraba bisa kuskure – Zagazola Makama Published on December 6, 2024 By Kabeer Bello Wasu rahotanni na cewa yan sanda e suka harbi Atsi Kefas, ‘yar’uwar Gwamnan Jihar Taraba Agbu Kefas bisa kuskure, yayin wani hari da ‘yan bindiga suka kai musu a ranar Alhamis. A cewar Zagazola Makama, wani kwararre kan sha’anin tsaro a yankin tafkin Chadi, lamarin ya faru a kan titin Kente da ke Karamar Hukumar Wukari a jihar Taraba. Jumai, mahaifiyar gwamnan, da Atsi suna cikin tafiya lokacin da ‘yan bindiga suka yi musu kwanton bauna. Rahoton ya bayyana cewa wani jami’in ‘yan sanda da aka tura don raka iyalin ne ya “harbi Atsi bisa kuskure” yayin da yake kokarin fatattakar ‘yan bindigar. Bayan harin, sojoji sun gaggauta kai dauki, inda suka ceto wadanda abin ya shafa, tare da kwashe Jumai da Atsi Kefas daga wurin da abin ya faru ta hanyar amfani da jirgin sama asibiti. Rahotanni sun ce jami’an tsaro sun gano motar da ‘yan bindigar suka yi amfani da ita, tare da gano ma’ajiyar harsasai d sauran kayayyakin fasinja a cikin motar. Related Topics: Don't Miss Shugaba Tinubu ya nada sabon shugaban NUC You may like Advertise About Us Contact Us Privacy-Policy Terms Copyright © Daily Post Media Ltd

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Siena hosts Phillips and AlbanyThe Prison Officers’ Association (POA) said it supported the Scottish Government Bill which brings forward the point at which offenders serving shorter sentences become eligible for automatic early release. Under the plans, between 260 and 390 prisoners are to be released by early February, in three tranches over six weeks. The Bill changes the automatic release point for sentences of four years or less from 50% to 40% of their term – although those convicted of sexual or domestic violence would be excluded. It also includes the power for ministers to change the early release point again in future through regulation – which can only be voted on in Holyrood rather than amended. Last week, support from SNP and Green MSPs meant the Bill passed its first stage – with the final two stages of the legislative process completed on Tuesday, with Holyrood sitting late as a result. Labour, the Tories and the Liberal Democrats voted against the legislation. The vote was 67 in favour, 54 against and none abstained. It comes as prisoner numbers in Scotland have increased despite 477 offenders being released early this summer, with ministers using emergency measures in a bid to try to tackle overcrowding. Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “We have experienced a significant rise in our prison population in recent times. “This means that without intervention, there is a risk that prisons will no longer be safe places for the dedicated staff to carry out the important work of rehabilitation to reduce reoffending. “That is why this Bill is backed by both the Prison Officers’ Association and the Prison Governors Association. “The measures in this Bill will bring about a sustained reduction in the prison population as well as relieve some of the acute pressure currently being experienced within our prison estate. “We need the prison system to focus on those who pose the greatest risk to the public and provide a range of support to help reduce reoffending and integration back into the community. “I am very aware that victims and their families will have concerns and we will continue to work closely with victim support organisations throughout the process.” Scottish Conservative shadow justice secretary Liam Kerr MSP said: “The SNP’s reckless plan to release hundreds more prisoners is a weak surrender to criminals. “They have railroaded this through Parliament without a moment’s thought for victims or public safety. “Ministers have also turned a blind eye to the concerns raised by senior police officers, over how many prisoners released previously went onto quickly re-offend. “This bill sums up how disconnected the SNP are from the public. The public want them to show some common sense and ensure prisoners serve their sentences in full. “SNP ministers must accept that this is a crisis of their own making. Rather than regularly carrying out prisoner release schemes, they must look at alternatives to tackle overcrowding, including the deportation of foreign criminals taking up place in Scotland’s jails.” Labour’s Pauline McNeill said the passing of the Bill was a “sad day for criminal justice” now that prisoners on short-term sentences would be released after serving only two fifths of the sentence imposed. While she accepted high prisoner numbers had led to a “crisis” in Scotland’s jails, she said the legislation had “no governor’s veto to provide a safeguard”. She branded the Bill a “short-term fix for current problems” adding that “we do not know for how long the crisis will last, but the policy will remain”. McNeill also voiced concerns about the legislation giving powers to ministers which could “potentially radically change” the release system for longer-term prisoners, serving sentences of more than four years. The MSP insisted “much closer scrutiny” should have been applied before such changes were made. “I don’t accept this is the way we should do legislation in this Parliament,” Ms McNeill added. Liberal Democrat justice spokesperson Liam McArthur also spoke out against this, saying it would reduce the future role Holyrood would have in scrutinising such changes. “That for me, for the Scottish Liberal Democrats is a step too far,” he said. However Green MSP Maggie Chapman argued that reducing prisoner numbers would allow staff in jails more time to work with offenders to reduce reoffending rates. She told MSPs: “If we are serious about rehabilitation, we must make space and time for it to happen. “That requires staff, and that requires space and I believe that requires this Bill.” The Association of Scottish Police Superintendents (Asps) said it had “grave concerns” about the early release of prisoners. ASPS president Rob Hay noted that when 477 prisoners had been released early in June and July of this year, more than 10% ended up back in prison “within weeks” because of offending, with some “having committed violent offences”. He said: “The public are being put at risk. Every crime committed and every victim who suffered at the hands of those criminals represent an avoidable consequence of this misguided Scottish Government policy. “To release prisoners early, knowing further offending is likely to occur, piles pressure on a police service already stretched to breaking under unsustainable demand. “The only comfort I can offer the public is that where police officers encounter released prisoners who remain involved in crime, we’ll do all we can to ensure they end up back in custody, where they belong.” Get all the latest news from around the country Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the countryFrom Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja The National Economic Council (NEC) has committed to enhancing the implementation of the National Electrification Strategy to address the persistent failures of Nigeria’s power grid. Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chairs the NEC, stressed that access to electricity is a fundamental right essential for economic growth, likening it to “the oxygen of economic growth.” This initiative aims to ensure broader energy access across the nation, reflecting the government’s dedication to improving the electricity supply and supporting economic development efforts in Nigeria. According to a statement issued by the VP’s media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the Council has accordingly constituted a committee on National Electrification to help address the challenges in the power sector. He said the formation of the committee was among the decisions taken by NEC at the end of its 146th meeting on Thursday, chaired by Shettima at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. A committee headed by the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, has been set up to enhance state engagement with the Electricity Reform Act 2023 and the National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan. According to the statement, the establishment of the committee followed a presentation from the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), highlighting the necessity for a reformed and diversified electricity system in Nigeria. The NEC emphasised that empowering states will facilitate improved accessibility and affordability of electricity, enabling all regions to effectively address their unique energy requirements. Other members of the committee include Governors Dikko Radda of Katsina, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Hope Uzodimma of Imo, and Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau. Also included are the Ministers of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Power, Adebayo Adelabu; Special Adviser to the President on NEC and Climate Change; Special Adviser to the President on Power; Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA); and Managing Director of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company. Shettima identified several pressing issues that the council must address, including energy infrastructure, human capital development, creative industries, fiscal strategy, industrial innovation, and long-term development planning. He emphasised that these areas are essential for Nigeria’s transformation. To facilitate this, he announced that experts and stakeholders from key sectors have been invited to share their insights and contributions during upcoming discussions. He stated, “The past few months of collapses in our national power grid compel us to reinforce the pace with which we are adopting and implementing the National Electrification Strategy. Energy access is a fundamental right, not a privilege. It is the oxygen of economic growth. “Our blueprints must, therefore, strive to expand access, empower rural communities, and drive productivity, especially for MSMEs. I hope that our discussions today will inspire solutions to light up homes, power businesses, and fuel Nigeria’s industrial future. “Whatever path we agree upon, it is clear that a private-sector-led distributed renewable energy generation approach is essential to increasing electricity access for households and small enterprises alike.” The Vice President also urged the Council to take Nigeria’s creative industry seriously, saying it presents an avenue to redefine the nation’s economic trajectory. According to him, “New technologies have not only amplified the global appeal of our arts, crafts, and culture but also opened up revenue streams and job opportunities for Nigerians. “Our music, films, art, and cultural heritage are not just global symbols of Nigeria’s soft power but also vital engines of economic growth. We cannot afford to relegate the promise of turning creativity into wealth, empowering our youth, and positioning Nigeria as a hub of innovation and cultural excellence,” he added. Key highlights of the meeting included a presentation by the Accountant General of the Federation, who provided an update on account balances as of November 20, 2024. The Excess Crude Account stands at $473,754.57, while the Stabilization Account holds N33,324,135,076.39. Additionally, the Natural Resources Account has a balance of N26,847,747,874.93. The meeting also featured a presentation from the National Programme Coordinator for Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs), Kabir Yusuf, who discussed the initiatives and objectives of the SAPZ programme. The programme is currently being implemented at varying stages in eight states of the federation, namely: Kano, Kaduna, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Imo, Cross River, and FCT, under phase 1 of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones. Under the second phase, a total of 24 states were visited by the selection team to assess their readiness for the programme. The implementation model is a government and private sector-led (SPV) arrangement; hence, discussions are underway to partner with private developers and co-financiers on the project, estimated to cost about $1 billion. The SAPZ coordinating office is working out a multi-tranche financing arrangement to accommodate additional states over the next three years. It is structured in three tranches. Key prayers and resolutions were outlined regarding the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) initiative. Participants called for the provision of intervention funds to enhance each state’s Agricultural Transformation Centers (ATC) and urged the Office of the Vice President to leverage its influence to secure additional co-financing for the second phase of SAPZ (SAPZ-2). They also emphasised the need to expedite the $300 million multi-tranche financing from BADEA through the Federal Ministry of Finance. The Council urged states to actively engage with the SAPZ programme, highlighting its potential as a transformative initiative if adequately supported. Additionally, states were encouraged to convene a special meeting with the Minister of Agriculture and SAPZ management to address concerns and requests raised during the presentation. The Minister of Finance presented a request to the National Economic Council (NEC) to ratify the nominations for the chairman and members of the governing council of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA). Once appointed, these members will have the opportunity to engage with the Board and Management of the NSIA, raising questions and providing counsel. The Council commended NSIA’s management for its crucial role in investing in key economic sectors and approved the Authority’s request to onboard First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) as an alternate custodian. Additionally, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) showcased the agency’s latest innovations, including a solar irrigation pump, electric vehicles, coal-based fertilizer, solar home systems, and smart devices. The Council urged states to utilise NASENI’s tailored support for manufacturing and industrial development to foster economic growth. It also directed NASENI to repair agricultural machinery nationwide and expand the establishment of lithium battery factories in resource-rich regions.ace888 casino

Unrivaled, the new 3-on-3 women's basketball league launching this winter, signed LSU star guard Flau'jae Johnson to a name, image and likeness deal. Johnson is the second college player to ink an agreement with Unrivaled, following UConn's Paige Bueckers. They won't be participating in the upcoming inaugural season, but Johnson and Bueckers will have equity stakes in the league. Unrivaled dropped a video on social media Thursday showing Johnson -- who also has a burgeoning rap career -- performing a song while wearing a shirt that reads, "The Future is Unrivaled." The deal will see Johnson create additional promotional content for the league. Johnson, 21, was a freshman on the LSU team that won the 2023 national championship. Now in her junior year, Johnson is averaging career highs of 22.2 points, 6.0 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game through 10 games for the No. 5 Tigers (10-0). She ranks eighth in Division I in scoring. Johnson has career averages of 14.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game in 82 career appearances (80 starts) for LSU. --Field Level Media

Jordan Sears scores 25 points, Jalen Reed has double-double and LSU outlasts UCF 109-102 in 3OT

Snap Inc. stock remains steady Tuesday, underperforms market{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "NewsArticle", "dateCreated": "2024-11-27T01:06:24+02:00", "datePublished": "2024-11-27T01:06:24+02:00", "dateModified": "2024-11-27T01:06:23+02:00", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/22140/news/featured/equity-bank-rwanda-usaid-ireme-partner-to-boost-healthcare-financing", "headline": "Equity Bank Rwanda, USAID Ireme partner to boost healthcare financing", "description": "Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, in collaboration with USAID Ireme, has embarked on an initiative to support healthcare providers across the country in addressing...", "keywords": "Equity Bank Rwanda,Health care providers,USAID Ireme", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/22140/news/featured/equity-bank-rwanda-usaid-ireme-partner-to-boost-healthcare-financing" }, "thumbnailUrl": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/thenewtimes/uploads/images/2024/11/27/64906.jpg", "image": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/thenewtimes/uploads/images/2024/11/27/64906.jpg" }, "articleBody": "Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, in collaboration with USAID Ireme, has embarked on an initiative to support healthcare providers across the country in addressing key challenges in the health sector, such as ensuring reliable, effective, and internationally standardized services. Recognizing that affordable and high-quality healthcare remains a pressing concern, the partnership aims to empower private healthcare facilities to deliver these services while indirectly helping patients overcome common barriers, such as expensive medical treatment, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to financing. Such issues were highlighted on November 26 during a workshop that brought together private healthcare providers from across Rwanda. ALSO READ: Equity Bank Rwanda launches new healthcare financing products The discussions focused on raising awareness about those products which are designed to help businesses operate in a conducive environment while delivering high-quality services to their clients. As part of its efforts to relieve financial challenges in the health sector, Equity Bank Rwanda has introduced healthcare financing products with reduced interest rates. According to Jean Havugimana, the Head of SME at Equity Bank Rwanda, most of these loans, now available at an annual interest rate of 16 per cent, are lower than the standard rates, which can reach up to 19 per cent annually. Also, the bank has addressed the issue of collateral, a common hurdle for many healthcare providers. “Most of the newly designed products no longer require collateral, making financing more accessible and inclusive”. “We want to ensure that financing is not a barrier but a solution to the challenges faced by healthcare providers. Our products are designed to meet their specific needs quickly and efficiently,” said Jean Havugimana. ALSO READ: Equity Bank, Pact Rwanda team up to empower small-scale miners Among the key offerings highlighted was the “Tang’ubuzima Loan”, which caters to a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, including private hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, laboratories, healthcare wholesalers, and manufacturers. “Invoice Discount” is another key product according to Havugimana, offered by the bank to assist healthcare providers. Typically, insurance companies take two to three months to pay healthcare providers. With this product, the bank advances funds to healthcare providers while they await payments from insurers. Once the insurers pay, the healthcare providers repay the bank. “This prevents disruptions in operations by ensuring providers have funds to purchase supplies and pay salaries. It’s a highly appreciated product that came at the right time,” said Havugimana. Another product is the “Letter of Credit”, which supports healthcare providers when they need to order expensive medical equipment but lack immediate funds. The bank pays the supplier on their behalf, fostering trust between both parties and ensuring the client receives the equipment with all necessary requirements. “The bank can take on a ‘risk appetite’ of up to 20 per cent. This means if a borrower requests Rwf100,000 and has collateral covering at least 80 per cent of the loan, the bank can approve the full amount requested.” Other products highlighted include “Stock Financing”, which helps businesses refill stock when it runs out, and “Asset Financing”, which enables them to purchase expensive equipment such as MRI machines, dental operation tools, maternity machines, and more. These and other products were presented to participants in the healthcare supply chain. ALSO READ: How Equity Bank is unlocking Rwanda’s agri-export potential However, during the event, participants raised concerns, primarily about high interest rates and the lengthy process of loan approvals. Addressing the issue of delays, Havugimana assured that under this program, loan approvals will now be processed within few days, providing timely support for critical healthcare projects, something that will make improvement from the previous extended timelines. However, he urged them to adopt the use of Point of Sale (POS) systems, where customers make payments for purchases, and the system processes those payments. According to Havugimana, this helps the bank maintain deposits, which in turn allows it to generate funds for lending to others. “Anyone who uses Equity Bank’s POS is eligible for loans ranging from Rwf40 million to Rwf70 million without requiring collateral. This offer applies to everyone, not just healthcare providers. We encourage everyone to adopt this system as it also reduces costs associated with printing new currency notes when needed,” he explained.", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Frank Ntarindwa" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/", "sameAs": ["https://www.facebook.com/TheNewTimesRwanda/","https://twitter.com/NewTimesRwanda","https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuZbZj6DF9zWXpdZVceDZkg"], "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "/theme_newtimes/images/logo.png", "width": 270, "height": 57 } }, "copyrightHolder": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/" } }A powerful rebel group has seized a key trading town in northeastern Myanmar on the Chinese border, taking control of a lucrative rare earth mining hub in another setback for the military-led government, according to witnesses. The apparent loss of Kanpaiti to the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) leaves Myanmar’s military in control of only one town with a border crossing, Muse, and deprives it of potential profits from the mines that provide China with rare earth minerals critical for electric motors and wind turbines, as well as high-tech weapons and a broad range of electronics. Neither Col. Naw Bu, the KIA’s spokesperson, nor Thet Swe, the spokesperson for the military, responded to multiple requests for comment, but several local media outlets reported that Kanpaiti fell last week. The ongoing civil war and military restrictions make travel for journalists nearly impossible, but the reports were confirmed by witnesses by telephone. Video clips circulating on social media, which could not be independently verified, showed what was said to be a KIA member raising the group’s flag at the tunnel through the mountain to China. Other clips showed a vast quantity of weapons allegedly captured by the KIA. The military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021, triggering intensified fighting with long-established armed militias organised by Myanmar’s ethnic minority groups in its border regions which have struggled for decades for more autonomy. The once-mighty armed forces, known as the Tatmadaw, have suffered a series of unprecedented defeats over the past year, especially in areas to the east near the Chinese border and in the western state of Rakhine, after an alliance of three powerful militias launched a coordinated offensive on Oct. 27, 2023. Since then, other militias organised along ethnic lines have joined in, including the KIA in the northern state of Kachin. In Kachin’s so-called Special Region 1, where Kanpaiti is located, the KIA since late September has been increasing assaults on a rival ethnic militia, the New Democratic Army-Kachin, which is allied with the government military and had provided border guard forces. The NDA-K also controlled the web of small, unlicensed operations where heavy rare earth elements are mined, then sold directly to China’s big state-owned mining conglomerates or through intermediaries. There are more than 300 unregulated mines in the area, producing most of the $1.4 billion in rare earths for sale to China last year “at a terrible cost to the environment and local communities,” according to a report issued by London-based environmental group Global Witness in May. It’s not clear how much of the profits flowed to the military government, and how much directly to the NDA-K, however, and while the loss of any revenue stream would be bad for the military, the fall of Kanpaiti is not necessarily a game changer for the overall conflict, said Morgan Michaels, a Singapore-based analyst with the International Institute of Strategic Studies who runs its Myanmar Conflict Map project. “This is another series of embarrassing losses for the regime but may not significantly affect the regime’s ability to wage war,” he said. “China had already shut most of the border to dissuade the KIA’s offensives, and the regime is thought to primarily generate revenue through other means than rare earths.” China was able to use its close ties to the regime and the Three Brotherhood Alliance groups to broker a ceasefire in January in northern Shan state, where much of the fighting has been. Hostilities resumed five months later after the ethnic alliance said the military had violated the ceasefire and has shown no signs of stopping, despite intense pressure from Beijing. China has likewise been pushing the KIA in Kachin to end the fighting, which has stopped cross-border trade, to little end. In its September push, the KIA was able to quickly seize four towns in Kachin, with the exception of Kanpaiti, including the NDA-K headquarters of Pang War. KIA forces advanced toward Kanpaiti on Nov. 20, and since consolidating control have called for the hundreds of residents who fled to return, a local community leader said, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of arrest. The report was confirmed by a spokesperson for Kachin Human Rights Watch, which is not affiliated with the New York-based watchdog group of a similar name, and a resident who saw the KIA troops enter the town. Both spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of arrest by authorities. Multiple Kachin-based news outlets and other Myanmar media reported that 300 government troops were able to escape by fleeing into China, then crossing back into Myanmar at the regime-controlled border town of Muse. Kachin Human Rights Watch’s spokesperson said he had reports of regime soldiers fleeing to safety but did not have further details. Published - November 27, 2024 03:00 am IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit Myanmar / military equipment / mining / economy, business and finance

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Daily Post Nigeria Yan sanda ne suka harbi kanwar gwamnan Taraba bisa kuskure – Zagazola Makama Home News Politics Metro Entertainment Sport Hausa Yan sanda ne suka harbi kanwar gwamnan Taraba bisa kuskure – Zagazola Makama Published on December 6, 2024 By Kabeer Bello Wasu rahotanni na cewa yan sanda e suka harbi Atsi Kefas, ‘yar’uwar Gwamnan Jihar Taraba Agbu Kefas bisa kuskure, yayin wani hari da ‘yan bindiga suka kai musu a ranar Alhamis. A cewar Zagazola Makama, wani kwararre kan sha’anin tsaro a yankin tafkin Chadi, lamarin ya faru a kan titin Kente da ke Karamar Hukumar Wukari a jihar Taraba. Jumai, mahaifiyar gwamnan, da Atsi suna cikin tafiya lokacin da ‘yan bindiga suka yi musu kwanton bauna. Rahoton ya bayyana cewa wani jami’in ‘yan sanda da aka tura don raka iyalin ne ya “harbi Atsi bisa kuskure” yayin da yake kokarin fatattakar ‘yan bindigar. Bayan harin, sojoji sun gaggauta kai dauki, inda suka ceto wadanda abin ya shafa, tare da kwashe Jumai da Atsi Kefas daga wurin da abin ya faru ta hanyar amfani da jirgin sama asibiti. Rahotanni sun ce jami’an tsaro sun gano motar da ‘yan bindigar suka yi amfani da ita, tare da gano ma’ajiyar harsasai d sauran kayayyakin fasinja a cikin motar. Related Topics: Don't Miss Shugaba Tinubu ya nada sabon shugaban NUC You may like Advertise About Us Contact Us Privacy-Policy Terms Copyright © Daily Post Media Ltd

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