Download Music Here

Be Notified

RECENT RYTHMS

Download Music Here

Be Notified

RECENT RYTHMS

Entertainment

notifier-image-Burna Boy becomes the first African artist to headline a stadium show in the UK

Burna Boy becomes the first African artist to headline a stadium show in the UK

Burna Boy made history over the weekend when he became the first African artist to headline a stadium show in the UK. A sold-out crowd of 60,000 fans screamed the Grammy award-winner's Afrobeats lyrics back to him at the London Stadium. And he didn't disappoint with his two-hour set - bringing out famous friends like Stormzy and Dave on a giant merry-go-round to perform alongside him. Afrobeats - a mix of African and Western influences - has seen a massive rise in popularity over recent years thanks to the likes of Burna Boy and Wizkid. The pair, two of Nigeria's biggest stars, have headlined some of the world's major music festivals but it was Burna Boy who took it to another level on Saturday night. Fans danced in the aisles, creating a carnival like atmosphere as he bounced around the stage in a bright orange jumpsuit. One of them was Kojo Amankwah, 27, who says he travelled 3,000 miles from Ghana to be at the historic gig. "I loved seeing how multi-racial the crowd was, united by the power of Burna Boy's music. It was unlike anything I've ever seen," he tells Newsbeat. "It's something the greatest performers of all time like Beyoncé and Michael Jackson have been able to achieve. And now Burna Boy's done it." As well as Stormzy and Dave, Burna Boy also brought out big names like J Hus and Jamaican vocalist Popcaan as part of the star-studded gig. But Kojo says the fact he had no warm-up acts shows how far Afrobeats has come. "When you go for concerts, usually there's a co-headliner, Burna Boy and his band didn't need any of that," he says. "To know he has that much star power is something we've never seen before in African music." Burna Boy will also take Afrobeats to the football this weekend, when he performs at the Champions League final in Istanbul. But of these sold-out events are a stark contrast to the star's humble beginnings. Kojo says he went to a Burna Boy show in 2014 in Ghana when there were only about 14 people in the audience. "He didn't actually come out that night, maybe because of the few people. I never thought he would get here so soon. "Afrobeats is the hottest genre in the world right now and the world needed a new sound after Covid." Selling out a UK stadium is seen as a massive moment for the genre, which has been appearing on charts across the world and taking over TikTok dance challenges. In 2019, Afrobeats artists collectively spent 86 weeks in the Official Chart Top 40, which was up from 24 weeks in 2017. And since then it's been embraced by some of the world's biggest stars - with Beyoncé and Drake featuring artists on their albums. TBaze is an Afrobeats musician in the UK who feels inspired by Burna Boy's success and the rise of his sound. "It's inspiring to see how far we've come as a genre. It's Afrobeats to the world, it's becoming the sound that makes people happy," he says. "It's not even just about the artist, musicians or fans. It's for the people. "The crowd represents a diverse community and it's cross-cultural. We're learning about different cultures through this experience." Looking ahead to the future of the genre, TBaze says the genre is growing because of social media. "A lot of artists have to think about how the music relates to things like TikTok dance challenges. It could be Instagram reels or freestyle challenges. "That accessibility is essential and I think about that when I'm writing a song "In future, I'd imagine people will be fusing Afrobeats into their genres even more." Source - BBC

notifier-image-'It's until that you are looking for a 10k that you understand people's true colours', GNL narrates story that forced him go to the US

'It's until that you are looking for a 10k that you understand people's true colours', GNL narrates story that forced him go to the US

G.N.L. Zamba made good music and collected a good chunk of change, but leeches cashed in on his naivety and he was forced to leave the country. Born Ernest Nsimbi, the rapper joined the music industry in 2005 after participating in the Hip Hop Canvas, which was a talent showcase campaign organised by Platinum Entertainment, owned by music promoter Shadrak Kuteesa. Kuteesa would become Zamba's manager. In 2007, he released his hit song Soda and became a rap sensation. Money started coming in. While speaking to YouTuber Kasuk8, G.N.L. Zamba said he would buy land every year from his big concerts. For the small shows, he said, "the money would never reach home". They would blow it immediately after the event, he confessed. Away from acquiring land, Zamba opted to diversify his investments and one of his treasured businesses was a bar in which he had a partner. Some of Zamba's friends used to frequent Zamunda Bar in Najjera II and they consumed on debt. Before they knew it, the earnings were shrinking. "They would come and drink... disrespect the business... we later noticed that weren't making money anymore," said Zamba during the interview. Then he was shocked when he started having financial problems and most of his friends weren't ready to help. "It's until that you are looking for a 10k that you understand people's true colours... oh, wow, I've been naive! All along people are like this," he said. That's when he decided to sell off the assets and move to the U.S. "... I had no money like I used to... but I had accumulated some reasonable assets that I would liquidate to make my next move. I sold the bar. I sold the land. I got my cash and left the country." G.N.L. Zamba moved to the U.S. in 2014. Born in 1986, he debuted on the Ugandan music scene in 2007 with his classic 'Soda'. The song was off his album Koyi Koyi, which also had other great jams like Mr. Right, Story Ya Luka, Ani Yali Amanyi. Zamba, holds a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science from Makerere University, married his wife, Miriam Tamar, in Malibu, California in 2018. They met at a bar in Kampala when Tamar was handling some projects in Uganda. This was in 2012.

notifier-image-Eddy Kenzo: What matters most is a deep understanding of the industry not books

Eddy Kenzo: What matters most is a deep understanding of the industry not books

President of the Uganda National Musicians Association (UNMF) Eddy Kenzo is unfazed by critics who think he is unqualified to lead musicians in the country on account of his lack of education. Kenzo, real names Edrisa Musuuza, has been hailed for opening the platform that is hoped to bring together musicians from different associations in Uganda, to leverage their numbers and advance their interests in the industry, both at home and abroad. But in equal measure, he’s also faced nasty attacks from different corners, zeroing mostly on his leadership qualities. Hitting back however, the singer who says he only studied up to Primary 3, told off the naysayers that “(academic) papers are not that important” when it comes to leading a group of musicians. What matters most, he said, is a deep understanding of the industry, its challenges and opportunities as well as experience, which he has in plenty. “I am not going to be leading doctors or teachers; I am just a leader of musicians. It cannot be about the books but the work”, Kenzo said while appearing on Galaxy FM. “Those who are so concerned should be talking about what I know. I am so knowledgeable when it comes to art and music; I am a producer, a writer, a performer and director,” he said. “When I start talking about music, you cannot doubt me. I am a person who can go and fill up stadiums in countries where they don’t even know what I am singing about. So, I think I am allowed to lead a musicians’ federation.” Besides, Kenzo says the federation has a secretariat which will handle the technical and complicated elements, while “we the bosses” do oversight.

News

notifier-image-Another petition challenging anti-homosexuality law filed

Another petition challenging anti-homosexuality law filed

A second petition challenging the Anti Homosexuality Act has been filed before the Constitutional Court. Last week, 11 activists challenged the anti homosexuality law with a petition in the Constitutional Court but this petition suffered glitches when some of the petitioners including Fox Odoi and Dr.Frank Mugisha said they had not been consulted before filing the petition. However, in the latest petition, Odoi has been joined by Frank Mugisha, Pepe Onziema, Jakcline Kemigisa, Andrew Mwenda, Linda Mutesi, Kintu Nyago, Jane Nassimbwa and Paul Bucyana Kwizera to challenge the anti-homosexuality law. The petitioners argue that the new law is inconsistent and offends Article 92 of the Constitution of Uganda which emphasizes that Parliament shall not pass any law to alter the decision or judgment of any court as between the parties to the decision or on judgment. These aver that the new law contravenes articles 1, 2, 3, 38(2)and 94 of the constitution since the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, Parliament itself and the enactment within six days was far below the mandatory 45 days provided by the rules and that this denied the public participation in the preparation of the law. “It was unconstitutional that the Anti Homosexuality Bill, a private member’s bill was moved without any prior and or participation of the public. There was no policy document that informed the introduction, consideration and passage of the Anti Homosexuality Act, 2023. The expediency, speed and haste with which the Anti Homosexuality Act 2023 was passed denied the people of Uganda exercise of their power and sovereignty in contravention of articles 1(1), 2 and 3 of the Constitution,” the petitioners say. The petitioners say that the law offended fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed under chapter four of the constitution when it criminalized consensual sex between adults of the same sex. They also argue that imposing a death sentence contravenes international human rights instruments, treaties, conventions and articles. These ask court to nullify the Anti Homosexuality Act, 2023 for being unconstitutional. “As LGBTQ human rights advocate I’m supportive of both of petitions. What is in issue here is not the number of the petitions but the rights , ignominy and plight that LGBTQ community is reckoning as a consequence of this draconian law. Whether by road, air or railway I want this law nullified by court expeditiously and the that’s the purpose of the petitions. The more we are the stronger we are,” Dr.Frank Mugisha one of the petitioners said at court. Source - Nile Post

notifier-image-Police reports only 199 cases in the recent Uganda Martyrs Celebrations in Namugongo

Police reports only 199 cases in the recent Uganda Martyrs Celebrations in Namugongo

Police have described as successful, this year’s martyrs day celebrations held at Namugongo. Addressing journalists on Monday, police spokesperson, Fred Enanga hailed the role played by the joint security agencies in securing the celebrations where over three million pilgrims gathered. “The celebrations from a security point of view were peaceful, safe and secure. Over three million pilgrims from within the country, neghbouring countries and African countries including Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, Cameroon, DRC, Nigeria and Malawi among others attended. There were also pilgrims from South Africa, USA and Europe who came to renew their faith,” Enanga said. He said that the joint security agencies managed to successfully secure the celebrations amid threats both from within and from outside the country. According to Enanga, such events which attract mammoth crowds always attract people from all walks of life including terrorists who would want to take advantage to cause mayhem but said Ugandan security agencies managed to keep any threat at bay. “We thank the joint security agencies for collaborating to ensure the celebrations ended without any major incidents.” 199 cases reported Nevertheless, the police spokesperson said 199 cases were registered in seven days between May 28 and June 4 when they deployed at Namugongo. He said 130 cases of phone theft, 62 other cases of theft and seven other offences were reported to police in Namugongo whereas 45 children were recovered after straying away from their parents. “As of yesterday, Sunday evening, 22 pilgrims were still stranded at Namugongo. We are working with transport providers to see how we can help them return home,” Enanga said. The Uganda Martyrs day is held every June, 3 to celebrate the 23 Anglican and 22 Catholic converts to Christianity were killed on orders of then Buganda king, Mwanga II between 1885 and 1887. The day has since grown into a religious tourism event which draws pilgrims from several parts of the world who gather at Namugongo. Source - Nile Post

notifier-image-Woman jailed over infant deaths pardoned

Woman jailed over infant deaths pardoned

A woman once branded "Australia's worst female serial killer" has been pardoned after new evidence suggested she did not kill her four infant children. Kathleen Folbigg spent 20 years in prison after a jury found she killed sons Caleb and Patrick and daughters Sarah and Laura over a decade. But a recent inquiry heard scientists believe they may have died naturally. The 55-year-old's case has been described as one of Australia's greatest miscarriages of justice. Ms Folbigg, who has always maintained her innocence, was jailed for 25 years in 2003 for the murders of three of the children, and the manslaughter of her first son, Caleb. Each child died suddenly between 1989 and 1999, aged between 19 days and 19 months, with prosecutors at her trial alleging she had smothered them. Previous appeals and a separate 2019 inquiry into the case found no grounds for reasonable doubt, and gave greater weight to circumstantial evidence in Ms Folbigg's original trial. But at the fresh inquiry, headed by retired judge Tom Bathurst, prosecutors accepted that research on gene mutations had changed their understanding of the children's deaths. New South Wales (NSW) Attorney General Michael Daley on Monday announced that Mr Bathurst had come to the "firm view" there was reasonable doubt that Ms Folbigg was guilty of each offence. As a result, the NSW governor had signed a full pardon, and ordered Ms Folbigg's immediate release from prison. "It has been a 20-year-long ordeal for her... I wish her peace," Mr Daley said, adding his thoughts were also with Craig Folbigg, the children's father. At the 2022 inquiry Mr Folbigg's lawyers pointed to the "fundamental implausibility" of four children from one family dying of natural causes under the age of two. The unconditional pardon does not quash Ms Folbigg's convictions, Mr Daley said. That would be a decision for the Court of Criminal Appeal, if Mr Bathurst chooses to refer the case to it - a process which could take up to a year. If her convictions are overturned, she could then potentially sue the government for millions of dollars in compensation. Alternatively, she could receive a settlement similar to that of Lindy Chamberlain, who was awarded $1.3m (£690,000, $US858,000) in 1992 for her wrongful conviction over the death of her daughter Azaria. But some advocates say the case of Ms Chamberlain, imprisoned for three years, pales in comparison with Ms Folbigg's. "It is impossible to comprehend the injury that has been inflicted upon Kathleen Folbigg - the pain of losing her children [and] close to two decades locked away in maximum security prisons for crimes which science has proved never occurred," said her lawyer, Rhanee Rego. Ms Folbigg was met at prison gate by friends involved in the years-long campaign for her freedom, and Mr Daley appealed privacy so she can "move on with her life". Law must be more 'science sensitive' Ms Folbigg's 2003 trial centred on circumstantial evidence, most notably diaries which expressed her struggles with motherhood. But there was no physical evidence of smothering or injuries to the children presented to the trial. At the recent inquiry, experts suggested the diaries were a coping mechanism written by a grieving mother with limited support, and that it would be unlikely all four children could be smothered without a trace. But the key evidence was from a team of immunologists who found Ms Folbigg's daughters, Sarah and Laura, shared a genetic mutation - called CALM2 G114R - that can cause sudden cardiac death. Evidence was also uncovered that her sons, Caleb and Patrick, possessed a different genetic mutation, linked to sudden-onset epilepsy in mice. Professor Carola Vinuesa, who led the research team from the Australian National University, said an unusual genetic sequence was immediately obvious in Ms Folbigg's DNA, before the children's samples were even tested. "We did the first test and found a [gene] variant that looked very suspicious... even then in November 2018, we thought this [a] very high likelihood, if found in the children, to be the culprit," she told the BBC. Prof Vinuesa said there were only 134 known cases worldwide of the potentially deadly heart condition linked to the genetic mutation. She described the decision to pardon Ms Folbigg as a "beautiful moment" that could offer hope to other women in similar situations. "We've been approached about women who have lost children, or who have been accused of inflicting harm, and the cases look as if they're also children with severe genetic conditions," she said. The Australian Academy of Science says the case shows the need for reform that makes the legal system more "science sensitive", a call echoed by Ms Folbigg's lawyer. Source - BBC

notifier-image-Civil society raises alarm over unsafe food consumed in Uganda

Civil society raises alarm over unsafe food consumed in Uganda

Civil Society Organisations(CSOs) have raised alarm over a pending crisis in the country over the unsafe food consumed in the country. CSOs including SEATINI Uganda, Centre for Food and Adequate Living Rights(CEFROHT) , Food Rights Alliance, African Institute for Culture and Ecology, Uganda Farmers Common Voice Platform for advocacy said as the world gears to celebrate the World Food Safety Day which is scheduled for June , 7,2023 it is high time focus is turned on food safety in the country. SEATINI’s Peninah Mbabazi said Uganda is off-track on the Malabo declaration which emphasizes the need for food safety . “According to the 2022 CAADP Biennial report, Uganda has neither met the set target for the Africa Food Safety Health Index nor has it met the Food Safety Trade Index targets. As such, it is a no wonder that numerous agricultural products are rejected in regional markets. Unfortunately, it is the regular Ugandan consumer who bears the brunt of these challenges as they can only afford the unsafe foods sold widely on the market,”Mbabazi said. Food Rights Alliance Executive Director, Agnes Kirabo could not agree more. “Whereas many of our people around the country go hungry without food, the 70% who have food are eating poison every day. Nobody is safe because food consumption is a daily routine,” Kirabo said. The Food Rights Alliance Executive Director cited the recent banning of Ugandan food including maize from entering the Kenyan market for possessing aflatoxins which he said is a pointer to the unsafe food in the country. Kirabo insisted that whereas the food was banned from entering the Kenyan market for having high levels of aflatoxins, it was never destroyed. “Can anyone point to us where this food was destroyed? This is the same food that ends up being sold as posho in schools and our children feed on it. As at home we feed on poisonous food everyday including salads, at school , our children are also feeding on posho and beans with cancer causing aflatoxins. That is the situation we are in as a country. It is affecting everyone. No one is safe,” Agnes Kirabo said. Denis Tabaro, the Executive Director at the African Institute for Culture and Ecology blasted government for failure to ban the use of Glyphosate and Glyphosate Based Herbicides yet they cause cancer and have been banned in many other countries. “This threatens and is a violation of the right to life, health, right to adequate food and to a clean and health environment guaranteed under Objectives XX, XXII, articles 20, 45, 8A and 33 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda. Our ancestors had traditional ways of dealing with pests and diseases but the herbicides have caused more problems. Apart from causing cancer, they lead to soil infertility. We need to change this,” Tabaro said. He said that the chemicals used to preserve food like tomatoes to ensure they stay for a long time as well as those that ensure they ripen fast are a danger to humans but said government has not taken keen interest in this state of affairs which threatens the lives of its citizens. SEATINI’s Peninah Mbabazi noted that chemical substances of health concern still end up in food due to the use of poor equipment. “ The Food and Drugs Act, CAP 278, prohibits adding harmful substances to food sold for human consumption. However, because of poor equipment and machines used in processing food, such substances end up in food particularly Posho, millet flour and grounded nuts, compromising food safety. More so, the continental Aflatoxin Control Action Plan (ACAP) that ensures food safety through the control of aflatoxins and chemical substances such as arsenic, cadmium, and mercury; pesticides; insecticides; and residues of disinfectants and veterinary drugs in the food chain, has not yet been fully implemented because of the inadequacy of funds.” The CSOs also blasted government for failure to amend the Food and Drugs Act which is the fundamental law that governs food safety in the country , having been enacted in 1964. “The law not been amended to account for changes in technology, rising food safety related issues, and challenges related to agricultural practices, and food production among others. For example, the government converted the drug element into the Drug Act under the National Drug Authority (NDA) to regulate drugs. Unfortunately, the food element of the Food and Drug Act is not active, leaving the food element an orphan that the food industry actors exploit with several unsafe and processed foods,” said Betty Aguti from Uganda Farmers Common Voice Platform for advocacy. Call The CSOs urged government to streamline the food and safety enforcement mandate in the counry. “ A cabinet resolution to establish the Food, Animal and Plant Health Authority should be fast tracked. To avoid duplications of mandates as often seen, a clear mandate and overall responsibility for ensuring food safety should be vested in the authority in collaboration with agencies for support,” SEATINI’s Peninah Mbabazi urged. She also urged government to review the Food Act of 1964 to consider the changes in technology and rising food challenges. “There is need to restore hygiene and sanitary inspection systems to ensure adherence to the existing regulatory measures for food and food products, including street food vending establishments, traditional food markets, primary food production centres and food processors, and household hygiene and sanitation.” The CSOs also called for strengthening of enforcement of standards by increasing funding for quality assurance agencies through adequate staffing to undertake market surveillance, testing, and certification activities. Source - Nile Post

Pretty Woman

notifier-image-"If God gave you hands, a brain, and legs to work, you have to", Barbie advises young girls

"If God gave you hands, a brain, and legs to work, you have to", Barbie advises young girls

Barbara Itungo Kyagulanyi, also known as Barbie, advised girls living the city girl lifestyle to think hard and long about the future. "These days there is something that's been disturbing me. It's about young girls who are old enough to work but they don't want to work," said Barbie in a video. "If God gave you hands, a brain, and legs to work, you have to. I've heard something saying that 'be beautiful and keep quiet'. Beauty is not enough. You can't eat it. You've to work. Because being beautiful is not enough." Bob Wine, who was close to her, chimed in: "In short, just work and keep quiet." Barbara Itungo Kyagulanyi is also always using her social media platforms to share some life hacks. "These are the types of people you should not get close to in your life," Barbie, the wife of singer and politician Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, has said. "If there are people you spend most of your time with, but what they talk about, what they do, and how they think doesn't make you feel like you should be like them, get a new circle." At 38 and being married to a rich and celebrated figure, Barbie, who was raised in a village in Ntungamo, has possibly met people from all walks of life and she knows a thing or two about meaningful friendships and leveraging them for success. Barbie runs a non-profit called Caring Hearts Uganda that is involved in a number of activities including teaching adolescent girls to make and use reusable sanitary towels, constructing facilities to improve sanitation and hygiene in schools, and conducting counseling sessions in schools on topics like HIV/AIDS and drug abuse. They also run programs to facilitate talent promotion in schools through sports, dance, and drama.

notifier-image-These are the types of people you should not get close to in your life, Barbie Kyagulanyi shares

These are the types of people you should not get close to in your life, Barbie Kyagulanyi shares

Barbara Itungo Kyagulanyi, also known as Barbie believes you shouldn't be friends with someone you don't look up to. "These are the types of people you should not get close to in your life," Barbie, the wife of singer and politician Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, starts. "If there are people you spend most of your time with, but what they talk about, what they do, and how they think doesn't make you feel like you should be like them, get a new circle." At 38 and being married to a rich and celebrated figure, Barbie, who was raised in a village in Ntungamo, has possibly met people from all walks of life and she knows a thing or two about meaningful friendships and leveraging them for success. Her message, which was delivered in a TikTok video, attracted lots of comments. Moll Namugenyi said: "Perfectly said. Thanks our First Lady." Shabirah Husan said: "I have those people but they make me laugh and I like it." Prossy noted: "[I] am looking for a new circle 🥺🥺🥺🥺Thanx [sic] for the advice." Another commenter said: "I need someone I can talk to. Could you please be that person?" Princess Mercy paid tribute to Barbie: "You will always be my mentor 💖💕💕 love u [sic] first lady 🥰🥰" Barbie has been married to Bobi Wine since 2011, runs a non-profit called Caring Hearts Uganda with operations in Kampala, Wakiso, Kiboga, Mukono, and Soroti. Founded in 2012, the organisation is involved in a number of activities including teaching adolescent girls to make and use reusable sanitary towels, constructing facilities to improve sanitation and hygiene in schools, and conducting counseling sessions in schools on topics like HIV/AIDS and drug abuse. They also run programs to facilitate talent promotion in schools through sports, dance, and drama. Source - Pulse.ug

notifier-image-Today, the door swings shut on the Elizabethan era

Today, the door swings shut on the Elizabethan era

For two minutes today the drumming will cease, the pipers will fall silent, the march of boots on procession routes will still. For two minutes today, at the end of the funeral service in Westminster Abbey, before the national anthem is heard, before the coffin is taken away for committal and burial at Windsor, there will be silence. And a door will swing shut. A reign of seven decades will come to a close. For 10 rather bewildering days we have spoken of the Queen and the new king as if they could somehow both be with us. Today that long week of transition comes to an end. In the earliest years of her reign, a new Elizabethan Age was proclaimed by some. Such was the excitement over the young queen, the marvels of technology and the new prosperity, after the grinding grey of the depression years, the sacrifice of World War Two and the hard road of recovery after it. She - wise in her earliest decades to fickle fashion - dismissed all that talk. But if this was not an age - and who are we to contradict her? - then it was an era, the Elizabethan Era. Over decades of wrenching change, she was constancy, for a largely still-conservative country. That profile on the stamps, that voice at Christmas, that bowed head on Remembrance Sunday. Today the door swings shut on that. It swings shut too on "Prince" Charles, on his many decades as Prince of Wales. His staff always bridled at the idea of him as an understudy or apprentice, pointing to his decades of achievement, of carving out a distinct role. His challenge, once Royal Mourning is over, is in part to enjoy - and show that he enjoys - the role of monarch. His mother understood that part of the job was to rally people - to take people's minds off bills and dull jobs and complaining relatives, to entertain and divert and sometimes delight. That he did good work as prince, transforming so many lives for the better, is unquestionable. But often, alongside, the impression given was that things were grim, that there was a lot of cause for complaint. The word "appalling" seemed to come up a lot. Now the door swings shut on that. Britons want to see the best of themselves reflected in their sovereign. And, as the silence stretches out across Westminster, across the capital and the country, the door swings shut on Elizabeth, on the woman known to so many and never really known at all, on the little girl known to her grandpa as Lilibet. In The Unseen Queen, the BBC's beautiful documentary of family-filmed footage of the young princess, Lilibet prances and dances, pranks and laughs. Her eyes shine with laughter. And they shine with love, for her father, the king who would die so early, and her husband Prince Philip, who would be by her side for so long. Over the decades that prancing, dancing, loving girl and young woman was by necessity put out of sight. This past week have come reminders from friends and confidantes, and those members of the public she let into the secret, that Lilibet was always there. She introduced the documentary. "You always hope that future generations will find them interesting," she said of the family films, "and perhaps be surprised that you too were young once". No-one should be too surprised. Because in her final months, that youthful Elizabeth, that Lilibet, returned to public view with that playful gleam in her eye, drawing a marmalade sandwich from her handbag. The handbag is closed. The gleam is now a memory. And today the door swings shut. Source - BBC

notifier-image-US Open: Serena Williams' career over after Ajla Tomljanovic defeat

US Open: Serena Williams' career over after Ajla Tomljanovic defeat

Serena Williams waved farewell to the US Open - and her illustrious career - amid emotional scenes after she lost to Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic on a thrilling night in New York. Williams, who turns 41 this month, expects it to be her final match. It will end a 27-year professional career that brought 23 major singles wins and sees the American widely labelled as the greatest of all time. Williams lost 7-5 6-7 (4-7) 6-1 and had tears running down her face afterwards. The former long-time world number one saved five match points in what proved to be the final game but was powerless to stop a sixth. Almost everyone who could rose to their feet when she departed the court on Arthur Ashe Stadium - the scene of her first major triumph in 1999 and five more of the finest wins in her storied career - for what she intends to be the last time. As she waved goodbye and gave a signature twirl, Tina Turner's pop classic 'Simply The Best' boomed out over the sound system. Asked if she would reconsider retiring after her performances this week, Williams said: "I'm literally playing my way into this and getting better. I should have started sooner this year. I don't think so, but you never know." Williams was overcome with emotion when she was interviewed in the middle of the court, thanking her family, team, the crowd and her fans across the world for their support over the years. "I thank everyone that's here, that's been on my side so many years, decades. Oh my gosh, literally decades," said Williams, who played her first professional tournament as a 14-year-old in 1995. "But it all started with my parents. And they deserve everything. So I'm really grateful for them. "And I wouldn't be Serena if there wasn't [sister] Venus, so thank you, Venus. She's the only reason that Serena Williams ever existed." Tomljanovic, who moves into the fourth round and plays Russia's Liudmila Samsonova, stepped to the side and applauded her opponent as she took the microphone. The world number 46 produced a phenomenal performance to block out the noise and sense of occasion, illustrated by her clinical hitting in the final stages of a brutal contest which lasted three hours and five minutes. Williams produces one last thrilling performance for A-list crowd Williams has long been more than a tennis player and it was a sign of her status - as an American icon and one of the world's most recognisable sport stars - that she announced her retirement in an essay for glossy fashion magazine Vogue. Although she did not use the word retirement itself, preferring to say she was "evolving away" from the sport, her plan is to end her glittering career this fortnight at her home major. Like every night she has appeared this week, Williams emerged on to court after being introduced as the 'Queen of Queen's' - the borough of New York where the tournament is held - in a specially-commissioned video montage narrated by American rap star Queen Latifah. The A-Listers have been out in force on Ashe this week, with Vogue editor Anna Wintour and golf superstar Tiger Woods previously sitting in Williams' box. On Friday night it was R&B singer Ciara and her husband Russell Wilson, who is one of the country's biggest NFL stars, alongside members of Williams' family. Elsewhere, tennis great Billie Jean King, film director Spike Lee and actress Rebel Wilson were also watching. Williams wore the glittery, figure skating-inspired dress she had specially created for the tournament, along with diamond-encrusted trainers, to add further pomp to the occasion. Right to the end, Williams put on a show for the almost capacity 24,000 crowd. The 40-year-old played some of her best tennis in a long while as she fought to prolong her career, putting on one final memorable show for those lucky enough to witness it. How Williams' final match played out Waiting for one of the greatest icons in the sport, as a partisan home crowd was being whipped up, would test the mettle of even the most nerveless players. Williams breezed in with Tomljanovic already long out on the court, having arrived first after touching a bronze plaque at the players' entrance inscribed with Billie Jean King's famous 'Pressure is a privilege' quote. The American looked the more tense and showed it in the first game, with Tomljanovic not looking fazed when she broke her opponent's serve. But Williams settled quickly in the next game as Tomljanovic could not consolidate, going a break ahead for 5-3 and serving for the opening set. Then a poor game appeared at the worst possible time for Williams. Unforced errors from her racquet contributed to Tomljanovic breaking back for 5-4 as did, almost as crucially, a net cord trickling back to Williams' side of the court at 30-30. Growing in confidence as a result of the break, Tomljanovic hit clean winners off both wings - either side of a double fault from Williams - to break again for 6-5 and leave her serving for the opener. She raced into a 40-0 lead and sealed the set at the third opportunity with an inch-perfect forehand winner. Seeing Williams trailing left the crowd inside the world's biggest tennis stadium somewhat subdued. Not for long, however. The world number 605 broke for a 2-0 lead in the second set and moved 4-0 ahead, thanks to some ferocious winners and helped by two double faults from her opponent, to send Ashe back into raptures. Williams was turning back the clock again at this point and was described by British former player Laura Robson, working for BBC Radio 5 Live as an analyst, as playing the best tennis she had seen her play "in years". A slip in concentration allowed Tomljanovic to claw back one of the breaks, but Williams locked in again and held from deuce for 5-2. That sparked an impassioned celebration from Williams - a trademark roar complemented with a fist clench and foot stamp as she bent towards the court - as everyone in the place erupted once again. Anticipation hung in the air as Williams tried to level the match at the first attempt, but she missed four set points and that triggered a fightback from Tomljanovic. Sensing Williams needed their help, the crowd chanted her name around the cavernous arena going into the tie-break and she responded with a composed passage of play to finally level the match after an 84-minute set. Now it was a straight one-set shootout. Williams looked to be suffering a dip in energy - understandably after her physical efforts this week in only her fourth tournament in more than a year - as she fell 5-1 behind in the decider. The end looked inevitable but not before she mustered one last act of resistance. In a final game lasting 15 minutes and 22 points, she eventually succumbed by planting a forehand into the net, which led to the final - potentially loudest - ovation of her career. Source - BBC

Sports

notifier-image-Real Madrid interested in Harry Kane to replace Karim Benzema

Real Madrid interested in Harry Kane to replace Karim Benzema

Harry Kane tops Real Madrid's wanted list as they look for a replacement for Karim Benzema. Kane, 29, has a year left on his Tottenham contract and is undecided on his future. Benzema's departure after 14 years at the club has left the Spanish giants needing a new striker. Roma's Victor Osimhen, Inter's Lautaro Martinez, Chelsea's Kai Havertz and Juventus' Dusan Vlahovic are also on their list of targets. But 14-time European champions Real are huge admirers of England's record goalscorer Kane and are hopeful the exit of several of their high earners this summer can help their bid. Along with the departure of Benzema, Eden Hazard, Marco Arsensio and Mariano Diaz are also leaving Madrid this summer, boosting their transfer and wage budget by 77m euros (£66m). Real remain in negotiations with Borussia Dortmund over England midfielder Jude Bellingham, with the former Birmingham City player keen to sign. Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy wants to keep Kane at his boyhood club, though, and is understood to be wanting in excess of £100m, a price tag Real would be reluctant to pay. Kane has scored 280 goals in 435 appearances for Spurs and is 47 goals shy of Alan Shearer's Premier League goalscoring record of 260. They have kept hold of him before, two summers ago when he tried to engineer a move to Manchester City. But with Spurs unable to deliver Champions League football next season and Kane yet to win a major trophy, the forward's future in north London remains unclear and Real will hope a desire for major trophies will attract him to a move to Spain. Tottenham are still without a manager as well, after a disappointing campaign ended with Ryan Mason as interim boss, but will open talks with Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou in the next few days. The Ballon d'Or-winning Benzema, 35, who joined the Spanish giants from Lyon in 2009, departs Real on a free transfer, having won five Champions Leagues and four La Liga titles with Madrid. Source - BBC

notifier-image-Roma boss charged for using abusive language towards official at Europa League final

Roma boss charged for using abusive language towards official at Europa League final

Roma coach Jose Mourinho has been charged by Uefa for using insulting or abusive language against an official after Wednesday's Europa League final. The Portuguese, 60, was booked by English referee Anthony Taylor in Budapest, where Sevilla beat his Roma side on penalties after a 1-1 draw. The charge relates to an incident in a car park after the game, when Mourinho directed a foul-mouthed rant at Taylor. Both clubs also face several charges over their fans' and players' conduct. Sevilla and Roma have been charged with throwing of objects, lighting of fireworks and improper conduct of their team. Spanish side Sevilla have an additional charge for invasion of the field of play, while Roma were also charged with acts of damage and crowd disturbances. Uefa's control, ethics and disciplinary body (CEDB) will decide on the matter in due course. What did Mourinho do? Mourinho criticised Taylor in his news conference and was later captured confronting the Englishman and other officials as they boarded a minibus in the car park under the stadium. The former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss repeatedly swore and twice shouted about a "disgrace", before talking further in Italian. Taylor and his family were then shouted at by angry fans in Budapest Airport. During the game, Taylor was repeatedly called to the benches to take action as fourth official Michael Oliver struggled to keep control. Taylor issued yellow cards to 13 players, the most bookings in a Europa League game. Seven of them were to Roma players, which was a record for a final. Delays and injuries saw more than 25 minutes of injury time played across the four halves of the game, which went to extra time and then a shootout. Airport abuse described as 'abhorrent' and 'unacceptable' Referees' body PGMOL said it was appalled by the "unjustified and abhorrent" abuse towards Taylor, seen in a video shared on social media. The Manchester-based official, 44, and his family were accosted as they were escorted through the airport. Scuffles then broke out as they disappeared through a secure door, while a chair was thrown. Budapest airport officials said an Italian citizen involved in the incident had been charged with affray. A Budapest Airport statement read: "Fans of the losing Roma team recognised the referee in the food court of the airport, where he was waiting for his flight to depart. "Thanks to the airport operator's close co-operation with the police and the increased police presence at the airport during the arrival and departure of the fans, the authorities intervened immediately, and the referee was escorted to a lounge and boarded his flight safely, accompanied by police officers. "The Italian citizen involved in the incident was apprehended by the police and criminal proceedings have been initiated on charges of affray." PGMOL said in a statement: "[We are] aware of videos circulating on social media showing Anthony Taylor and his family being harassed and abused at Budapest Airport. "We are appalled at the unjustified and abhorrent abuse directed at Anthony and his family as he tries to make his way home from refereeing the Uefa Europa League final. "We will continue to provide our full support to Anthony and his family." The Premier League said it was "shocked and appalled by the unacceptable abuse" directed at Taylor and his family. A spokesperson added: "No-one should have to suffer the inexcusable behaviour they had to endure. Anthony is one of our most experienced and accomplished match officials and we fully support him and his family." West Ham manager David Moyes, whose side play Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final on Wednesday in Prague, said: "All referees have a really difficult job and shouldn't be put through any difficult situations. That's not correct." 'Mourinho should be banned for 10 games' Before Mourinho was charged, former Premier League referee Keith Hackett called on Uefa to give him a 10-game ban and take tougher action against clubs. "What is appalling here is that a referee has gone out and done his job," Hackett told BBC Radio 5 Live. "It is a prestigious game for him - for an English referee to be appointed to the final. "He was looking forward to that, he spent years of refereeing to get to the level he is at - he is a world-class referee. He delivers a very difficult game without much contention and then he is faced with this particular problem as he is in the airport. "It is unprecedented and Uefa have got to take action. The sanction for Mourinho? They have got to come down with a 10-game ban. "They have also got to ban the teams from Europe. They have got to be tough - throw them out of the competition." Hackett said Uefa must also take "responsibility for the security of match officials right up to the time that they leave the airport". Source - BBC

notifier-image-Cristiano Ronald believes Saudi Pro League can become a 'top-five league in the world' if they can only do one thing.

Cristiano Ronald believes Saudi Pro League can become a 'top-five league in the world' if they can only do one thing.

The Saudi Pro League can become a "top-five league in the world" if they can attract more big-name players, says Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo. Lionel Messi, Karim Benzema and Luka Modric have been linked with moves to Saudi Arabia and Ronaldo, 38, says they are "very welcome" to join him. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has completed his first season with Al Nassr after joining in December. He has a contract to 2025 and added he "will continue here" next season. Paris St-Germain have confirmed Messi will leave the club this summer and the Argentina forward, 35, has a role as a tourism ambassador for Saudi Arabia. Ronaldo's former Real Madrid team-mates Benzema and Modric are also thought to be looking for lucrative moves at the tail end of their careers. "If they are coming, big players and big names, young players, 'old players', they are very welcome because if that happens, the league will improve a little bit," Ronaldo said in an interview with the SPL. "The league is very good but I think we have many opportunities to still grow. The league is competitive. We have very good teams, very good Arab players. "But they need to improve a little bit more the infrastructure. Even the referees, the VAR system, should be a little quicker." Ronaldo's second stint with Manchester United ended last November when his contract was cancelled by mutual consent. After becoming the only player to score in five different World Cup tournaments, he scored 14 goals in 16 games to help Riyadh-based Al Nassr finish second behind champions Al Hilal. "I think other small things they need to improve," added Ronaldo, who holds the records for most international goals and appearances. "But I am happy here, I want to continue here, I will continue here. And in my opinion if they continue to do the work that they want to do here, for the next five years, I think the Saudi league can be a top five league in the world."

notifier-image-PGMOL condemns abuse directed at Europa League final referee

PGMOL condemns abuse directed at Europa League final referee

Referees' body PGMOL says it is appalled by the "unjustified and abhorrent" abuse directed at Anthony Taylor in Budapest Airport following Wednesday's Europa League final. The Englishman had officiated the game, where Sevilla beat Roma on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Taylor and his family were then shouted at by angry fans at the airport. It came after Roma boss Jose Mourinho was seen in a car park confronting Taylor with a foul-mouthed rant. In the video, which is being shared on social media, Taylor and his family are accosted by fans as they are escorted through the airport. Scuffles then break out as they disappear through a secure door and a chair is thrown. PGMOL said in a statement: "[We are] aware of videos circulating on social media showing Anthony Taylor and his family being harassed and abused at Budapest Airport. "We are appalled at the unjustified and abhorrent abuse directed at Anthony and his family as he tries to make his way home from refereeing the Uefa Europa League final. "We will continue to provide our full support to Anthony and his family." Meanwhile, Uefa is waiting for reports from match officials and delegates before deciding whether to take action against Mourinho with regards to the separate incident in the car park under the stadium after the match. Mourinho criticised Taylor in his news conference and he was later captured ranting and making pointed comments as Taylor and officials were boarding a minibus. The Portuguese repeatedly swore and twice shouted about a "disgrace" before talking in Italian. Uefa's chief refereeing officer Roberto Rosetti attempted to calm the situation down. Mourinho was booked during an ill-tempered game, with Taylor repeatedly called to the benches to take action as fourth official Michael Oliver struggled to keep control. Taylor issued yellow cards to 13 players, the most bookings in a Europa League game. Seven of them were to Roma players, a record for a final. Delays and injuries saw more than 25 minutes of injury time played across the four halves of the game, which went to extra time and then a shootout. Source - BBC

Entertainment

notifier-image-Burna Boy becomes the first African artist to headline a stadium show in the UK

Burna Boy becomes the first African artist to headline a stadium show in the UK

Burna Boy made history over the weekend when he became the first African artist to headline a stadium show in the UK. A sold-out crowd of 60,000 fans screamed the Grammy award-winner's Afrobeats lyrics back to him at the London Stadium. And he didn't disappoint with his two-hour set - bringing out famous friends like Stormzy and Dave on a giant merry-go-round to perform alongside him. Afrobeats - a mix of African and Western influences - has seen a massive rise in popularity over recent years thanks to the likes of Burna Boy and Wizkid. The pair, two of Nigeria's biggest stars, have headlined some of the world's major music festivals but it was Burna Boy who took it to another level on Saturday night. Fans danced in the aisles, creating a carnival like atmosphere as he bounced around the stage in a bright orange jumpsuit. One of them was Kojo Amankwah, 27, who says he travelled 3,000 miles from Ghana to be at the historic gig. "I loved seeing how multi-racial the crowd was, united by the power of Burna Boy's music. It was unlike anything I've ever seen," he tells Newsbeat. "It's something the greatest performers of all time like Beyoncé and Michael Jackson have been able to achieve. And now Burna Boy's done it." As well as Stormzy and Dave, Burna Boy also brought out big names like J Hus and Jamaican vocalist Popcaan as part of the star-studded gig. But Kojo says the fact he had no warm-up acts shows how far Afrobeats has come. "When you go for concerts, usually there's a co-headliner, Burna Boy and his band didn't need any of that," he says. "To know he has that much star power is something we've never seen before in African music." Burna Boy will also take Afrobeats to the football this weekend, when he performs at the Champions League final in Istanbul. But of these sold-out events are a stark contrast to the star's humble beginnings. Kojo says he went to a Burna Boy show in 2014 in Ghana when there were only about 14 people in the audience. "He didn't actually come out that night, maybe because of the few people. I never thought he would get here so soon. "Afrobeats is the hottest genre in the world right now and the world needed a new sound after Covid." Selling out a UK stadium is seen as a massive moment for the genre, which has been appearing on charts across the world and taking over TikTok dance challenges. In 2019, Afrobeats artists collectively spent 86 weeks in the Official Chart Top 40, which was up from 24 weeks in 2017. And since then it's been embraced by some of the world's biggest stars - with Beyoncé and Drake featuring artists on their albums. TBaze is an Afrobeats musician in the UK who feels inspired by Burna Boy's success and the rise of his sound. "It's inspiring to see how far we've come as a genre. It's Afrobeats to the world, it's becoming the sound that makes people happy," he says. "It's not even just about the artist, musicians or fans. It's for the people. "The crowd represents a diverse community and it's cross-cultural. We're learning about different cultures through this experience." Looking ahead to the future of the genre, TBaze says the genre is growing because of social media. "A lot of artists have to think about how the music relates to things like TikTok dance challenges. It could be Instagram reels or freestyle challenges. "That accessibility is essential and I think about that when I'm writing a song "In future, I'd imagine people will be fusing Afrobeats into their genres even more." Source - BBC

notifier-image-'It's until that you are looking for a 10k that you understand people's true colours', GNL narrates story that forced him go to the US

'It's until that you are looking for a 10k that you understand people's true colours', GNL narrates story that forced him go to the US

G.N.L. Zamba made good music and collected a good chunk of change, but leeches cashed in on his naivety and he was forced to leave the country. Born Ernest Nsimbi, the rapper joined the music industry in 2005 after participating in the Hip Hop Canvas, which was a talent showcase campaign organised by Platinum Entertainment, owned by music promoter Shadrak Kuteesa. Kuteesa would become Zamba's manager. In 2007, he released his hit song Soda and became a rap sensation. Money started coming in. While speaking to YouTuber Kasuk8, G.N.L. Zamba said he would buy land every year from his big concerts. For the small shows, he said, "the money would never reach home". They would blow it immediately after the event, he confessed. Away from acquiring land, Zamba opted to diversify his investments and one of his treasured businesses was a bar in which he had a partner. Some of Zamba's friends used to frequent Zamunda Bar in Najjera II and they consumed on debt. Before they knew it, the earnings were shrinking. "They would come and drink... disrespect the business... we later noticed that weren't making money anymore," said Zamba during the interview. Then he was shocked when he started having financial problems and most of his friends weren't ready to help. "It's until that you are looking for a 10k that you understand people's true colours... oh, wow, I've been naive! All along people are like this," he said. That's when he decided to sell off the assets and move to the U.S. "... I had no money like I used to... but I had accumulated some reasonable assets that I would liquidate to make my next move. I sold the bar. I sold the land. I got my cash and left the country." G.N.L. Zamba moved to the U.S. in 2014. Born in 1986, he debuted on the Ugandan music scene in 2007 with his classic 'Soda'. The song was off his album Koyi Koyi, which also had other great jams like Mr. Right, Story Ya Luka, Ani Yali Amanyi. Zamba, holds a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science from Makerere University, married his wife, Miriam Tamar, in Malibu, California in 2018. They met at a bar in Kampala when Tamar was handling some projects in Uganda. This was in 2012.

notifier-image-Eddy Kenzo: What matters most is a deep understanding of the industry not books

Eddy Kenzo: What matters most is a deep understanding of the industry not books

President of the Uganda National Musicians Association (UNMF) Eddy Kenzo is unfazed by critics who think he is unqualified to lead musicians in the country on account of his lack of education. Kenzo, real names Edrisa Musuuza, has been hailed for opening the platform that is hoped to bring together musicians from different associations in Uganda, to leverage their numbers and advance their interests in the industry, both at home and abroad. But in equal measure, he’s also faced nasty attacks from different corners, zeroing mostly on his leadership qualities. Hitting back however, the singer who says he only studied up to Primary 3, told off the naysayers that “(academic) papers are not that important” when it comes to leading a group of musicians. What matters most, he said, is a deep understanding of the industry, its challenges and opportunities as well as experience, which he has in plenty. “I am not going to be leading doctors or teachers; I am just a leader of musicians. It cannot be about the books but the work”, Kenzo said while appearing on Galaxy FM. “Those who are so concerned should be talking about what I know. I am so knowledgeable when it comes to art and music; I am a producer, a writer, a performer and director,” he said. “When I start talking about music, you cannot doubt me. I am a person who can go and fill up stadiums in countries where they don’t even know what I am singing about. So, I think I am allowed to lead a musicians’ federation.” Besides, Kenzo says the federation has a secretariat which will handle the technical and complicated elements, while “we the bosses” do oversight.

News

notifier-image-Another petition challenging anti-homosexuality law filed

Another petition challenging anti-homosexuality law filed

A second petition challenging the Anti Homosexuality Act has been filed before the Constitutional Court. Last week, 11 activists challenged the anti homosexuality law with a petition in the Constitutional Court but this petition suffered glitches when some of the petitioners including Fox Odoi and Dr.Frank Mugisha said they had not been consulted before filing the petition. However, in the latest petition, Odoi has been joined by Frank Mugisha, Pepe Onziema, Jakcline Kemigisa, Andrew Mwenda, Linda Mutesi, Kintu Nyago, Jane Nassimbwa and Paul Bucyana Kwizera to challenge the anti-homosexuality law. The petitioners argue that the new law is inconsistent and offends Article 92 of the Constitution of Uganda which emphasizes that Parliament shall not pass any law to alter the decision or judgment of any court as between the parties to the decision or on judgment. These aver that the new law contravenes articles 1, 2, 3, 38(2)and 94 of the constitution since the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, Parliament itself and the enactment within six days was far below the mandatory 45 days provided by the rules and that this denied the public participation in the preparation of the law. “It was unconstitutional that the Anti Homosexuality Bill, a private member’s bill was moved without any prior and or participation of the public. There was no policy document that informed the introduction, consideration and passage of the Anti Homosexuality Act, 2023. The expediency, speed and haste with which the Anti Homosexuality Act 2023 was passed denied the people of Uganda exercise of their power and sovereignty in contravention of articles 1(1), 2 and 3 of the Constitution,” the petitioners say. The petitioners say that the law offended fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed under chapter four of the constitution when it criminalized consensual sex between adults of the same sex. They also argue that imposing a death sentence contravenes international human rights instruments, treaties, conventions and articles. These ask court to nullify the Anti Homosexuality Act, 2023 for being unconstitutional. “As LGBTQ human rights advocate I’m supportive of both of petitions. What is in issue here is not the number of the petitions but the rights , ignominy and plight that LGBTQ community is reckoning as a consequence of this draconian law. Whether by road, air or railway I want this law nullified by court expeditiously and the that’s the purpose of the petitions. The more we are the stronger we are,” Dr.Frank Mugisha one of the petitioners said at court. Source - Nile Post

notifier-image-Police reports only 199 cases in the recent Uganda Martyrs Celebrations in Namugongo

Police reports only 199 cases in the recent Uganda Martyrs Celebrations in Namugongo

Police have described as successful, this year’s martyrs day celebrations held at Namugongo. Addressing journalists on Monday, police spokesperson, Fred Enanga hailed the role played by the joint security agencies in securing the celebrations where over three million pilgrims gathered. “The celebrations from a security point of view were peaceful, safe and secure. Over three million pilgrims from within the country, neghbouring countries and African countries including Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, Cameroon, DRC, Nigeria and Malawi among others attended. There were also pilgrims from South Africa, USA and Europe who came to renew their faith,” Enanga said. He said that the joint security agencies managed to successfully secure the celebrations amid threats both from within and from outside the country. According to Enanga, such events which attract mammoth crowds always attract people from all walks of life including terrorists who would want to take advantage to cause mayhem but said Ugandan security agencies managed to keep any threat at bay. “We thank the joint security agencies for collaborating to ensure the celebrations ended without any major incidents.” 199 cases reported Nevertheless, the police spokesperson said 199 cases were registered in seven days between May 28 and June 4 when they deployed at Namugongo. He said 130 cases of phone theft, 62 other cases of theft and seven other offences were reported to police in Namugongo whereas 45 children were recovered after straying away from their parents. “As of yesterday, Sunday evening, 22 pilgrims were still stranded at Namugongo. We are working with transport providers to see how we can help them return home,” Enanga said. The Uganda Martyrs day is held every June, 3 to celebrate the 23 Anglican and 22 Catholic converts to Christianity were killed on orders of then Buganda king, Mwanga II between 1885 and 1887. The day has since grown into a religious tourism event which draws pilgrims from several parts of the world who gather at Namugongo. Source - Nile Post

notifier-image-Woman jailed over infant deaths pardoned

Woman jailed over infant deaths pardoned

A woman once branded "Australia's worst female serial killer" has been pardoned after new evidence suggested she did not kill her four infant children. Kathleen Folbigg spent 20 years in prison after a jury found she killed sons Caleb and Patrick and daughters Sarah and Laura over a decade. But a recent inquiry heard scientists believe they may have died naturally. The 55-year-old's case has been described as one of Australia's greatest miscarriages of justice. Ms Folbigg, who has always maintained her innocence, was jailed for 25 years in 2003 for the murders of three of the children, and the manslaughter of her first son, Caleb. Each child died suddenly between 1989 and 1999, aged between 19 days and 19 months, with prosecutors at her trial alleging she had smothered them. Previous appeals and a separate 2019 inquiry into the case found no grounds for reasonable doubt, and gave greater weight to circumstantial evidence in Ms Folbigg's original trial. But at the fresh inquiry, headed by retired judge Tom Bathurst, prosecutors accepted that research on gene mutations had changed their understanding of the children's deaths. New South Wales (NSW) Attorney General Michael Daley on Monday announced that Mr Bathurst had come to the "firm view" there was reasonable doubt that Ms Folbigg was guilty of each offence. As a result, the NSW governor had signed a full pardon, and ordered Ms Folbigg's immediate release from prison. "It has been a 20-year-long ordeal for her... I wish her peace," Mr Daley said, adding his thoughts were also with Craig Folbigg, the children's father. At the 2022 inquiry Mr Folbigg's lawyers pointed to the "fundamental implausibility" of four children from one family dying of natural causes under the age of two. The unconditional pardon does not quash Ms Folbigg's convictions, Mr Daley said. That would be a decision for the Court of Criminal Appeal, if Mr Bathurst chooses to refer the case to it - a process which could take up to a year. If her convictions are overturned, she could then potentially sue the government for millions of dollars in compensation. Alternatively, she could receive a settlement similar to that of Lindy Chamberlain, who was awarded $1.3m (£690,000, $US858,000) in 1992 for her wrongful conviction over the death of her daughter Azaria. But some advocates say the case of Ms Chamberlain, imprisoned for three years, pales in comparison with Ms Folbigg's. "It is impossible to comprehend the injury that has been inflicted upon Kathleen Folbigg - the pain of losing her children [and] close to two decades locked away in maximum security prisons for crimes which science has proved never occurred," said her lawyer, Rhanee Rego. Ms Folbigg was met at prison gate by friends involved in the years-long campaign for her freedom, and Mr Daley appealed privacy so she can "move on with her life". Law must be more 'science sensitive' Ms Folbigg's 2003 trial centred on circumstantial evidence, most notably diaries which expressed her struggles with motherhood. But there was no physical evidence of smothering or injuries to the children presented to the trial. At the recent inquiry, experts suggested the diaries were a coping mechanism written by a grieving mother with limited support, and that it would be unlikely all four children could be smothered without a trace. But the key evidence was from a team of immunologists who found Ms Folbigg's daughters, Sarah and Laura, shared a genetic mutation - called CALM2 G114R - that can cause sudden cardiac death. Evidence was also uncovered that her sons, Caleb and Patrick, possessed a different genetic mutation, linked to sudden-onset epilepsy in mice. Professor Carola Vinuesa, who led the research team from the Australian National University, said an unusual genetic sequence was immediately obvious in Ms Folbigg's DNA, before the children's samples were even tested. "We did the first test and found a [gene] variant that looked very suspicious... even then in November 2018, we thought this [a] very high likelihood, if found in the children, to be the culprit," she told the BBC. Prof Vinuesa said there were only 134 known cases worldwide of the potentially deadly heart condition linked to the genetic mutation. She described the decision to pardon Ms Folbigg as a "beautiful moment" that could offer hope to other women in similar situations. "We've been approached about women who have lost children, or who have been accused of inflicting harm, and the cases look as if they're also children with severe genetic conditions," she said. The Australian Academy of Science says the case shows the need for reform that makes the legal system more "science sensitive", a call echoed by Ms Folbigg's lawyer. Source - BBC

notifier-image-Civil society raises alarm over unsafe food consumed in Uganda

Civil society raises alarm over unsafe food consumed in Uganda

Civil Society Organisations(CSOs) have raised alarm over a pending crisis in the country over the unsafe food consumed in the country. CSOs including SEATINI Uganda, Centre for Food and Adequate Living Rights(CEFROHT) , Food Rights Alliance, African Institute for Culture and Ecology, Uganda Farmers Common Voice Platform for advocacy said as the world gears to celebrate the World Food Safety Day which is scheduled for June , 7,2023 it is high time focus is turned on food safety in the country. SEATINI’s Peninah Mbabazi said Uganda is off-track on the Malabo declaration which emphasizes the need for food safety . “According to the 2022 CAADP Biennial report, Uganda has neither met the set target for the Africa Food Safety Health Index nor has it met the Food Safety Trade Index targets. As such, it is a no wonder that numerous agricultural products are rejected in regional markets. Unfortunately, it is the regular Ugandan consumer who bears the brunt of these challenges as they can only afford the unsafe foods sold widely on the market,”Mbabazi said. Food Rights Alliance Executive Director, Agnes Kirabo could not agree more. “Whereas many of our people around the country go hungry without food, the 70% who have food are eating poison every day. Nobody is safe because food consumption is a daily routine,” Kirabo said. The Food Rights Alliance Executive Director cited the recent banning of Ugandan food including maize from entering the Kenyan market for possessing aflatoxins which he said is a pointer to the unsafe food in the country. Kirabo insisted that whereas the food was banned from entering the Kenyan market for having high levels of aflatoxins, it was never destroyed. “Can anyone point to us where this food was destroyed? This is the same food that ends up being sold as posho in schools and our children feed on it. As at home we feed on poisonous food everyday including salads, at school , our children are also feeding on posho and beans with cancer causing aflatoxins. That is the situation we are in as a country. It is affecting everyone. No one is safe,” Agnes Kirabo said. Denis Tabaro, the Executive Director at the African Institute for Culture and Ecology blasted government for failure to ban the use of Glyphosate and Glyphosate Based Herbicides yet they cause cancer and have been banned in many other countries. “This threatens and is a violation of the right to life, health, right to adequate food and to a clean and health environment guaranteed under Objectives XX, XXII, articles 20, 45, 8A and 33 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda. Our ancestors had traditional ways of dealing with pests and diseases but the herbicides have caused more problems. Apart from causing cancer, they lead to soil infertility. We need to change this,” Tabaro said. He said that the chemicals used to preserve food like tomatoes to ensure they stay for a long time as well as those that ensure they ripen fast are a danger to humans but said government has not taken keen interest in this state of affairs which threatens the lives of its citizens. SEATINI’s Peninah Mbabazi noted that chemical substances of health concern still end up in food due to the use of poor equipment. “ The Food and Drugs Act, CAP 278, prohibits adding harmful substances to food sold for human consumption. However, because of poor equipment and machines used in processing food, such substances end up in food particularly Posho, millet flour and grounded nuts, compromising food safety. More so, the continental Aflatoxin Control Action Plan (ACAP) that ensures food safety through the control of aflatoxins and chemical substances such as arsenic, cadmium, and mercury; pesticides; insecticides; and residues of disinfectants and veterinary drugs in the food chain, has not yet been fully implemented because of the inadequacy of funds.” The CSOs also blasted government for failure to amend the Food and Drugs Act which is the fundamental law that governs food safety in the country , having been enacted in 1964. “The law not been amended to account for changes in technology, rising food safety related issues, and challenges related to agricultural practices, and food production among others. For example, the government converted the drug element into the Drug Act under the National Drug Authority (NDA) to regulate drugs. Unfortunately, the food element of the Food and Drug Act is not active, leaving the food element an orphan that the food industry actors exploit with several unsafe and processed foods,” said Betty Aguti from Uganda Farmers Common Voice Platform for advocacy. Call The CSOs urged government to streamline the food and safety enforcement mandate in the counry. “ A cabinet resolution to establish the Food, Animal and Plant Health Authority should be fast tracked. To avoid duplications of mandates as often seen, a clear mandate and overall responsibility for ensuring food safety should be vested in the authority in collaboration with agencies for support,” SEATINI’s Peninah Mbabazi urged. She also urged government to review the Food Act of 1964 to consider the changes in technology and rising food challenges. “There is need to restore hygiene and sanitary inspection systems to ensure adherence to the existing regulatory measures for food and food products, including street food vending establishments, traditional food markets, primary food production centres and food processors, and household hygiene and sanitation.” The CSOs also called for strengthening of enforcement of standards by increasing funding for quality assurance agencies through adequate staffing to undertake market surveillance, testing, and certification activities. Source - Nile Post

Pretty Woman

notifier-image-"If God gave you hands, a brain, and legs to work, you have to", Barbie advises young girls

"If God gave you hands, a brain, and legs to work, you have to", Barbie advises young girls

Barbara Itungo Kyagulanyi, also known as Barbie, advised girls living the city girl lifestyle to think hard and long about the future. "These days there is something that's been disturbing me. It's about young girls who are old enough to work but they don't want to work," said Barbie in a video. "If God gave you hands, a brain, and legs to work, you have to. I've heard something saying that 'be beautiful and keep quiet'. Beauty is not enough. You can't eat it. You've to work. Because being beautiful is not enough." Bob Wine, who was close to her, chimed in: "In short, just work and keep quiet." Barbara Itungo Kyagulanyi is also always using her social media platforms to share some life hacks. "These are the types of people you should not get close to in your life," Barbie, the wife of singer and politician Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, has said. "If there are people you spend most of your time with, but what they talk about, what they do, and how they think doesn't make you feel like you should be like them, get a new circle." At 38 and being married to a rich and celebrated figure, Barbie, who was raised in a village in Ntungamo, has possibly met people from all walks of life and she knows a thing or two about meaningful friendships and leveraging them for success. Barbie runs a non-profit called Caring Hearts Uganda that is involved in a number of activities including teaching adolescent girls to make and use reusable sanitary towels, constructing facilities to improve sanitation and hygiene in schools, and conducting counseling sessions in schools on topics like HIV/AIDS and drug abuse. They also run programs to facilitate talent promotion in schools through sports, dance, and drama.

notifier-image-These are the types of people you should not get close to in your life, Barbie Kyagulanyi shares

These are the types of people you should not get close to in your life, Barbie Kyagulanyi shares

Barbara Itungo Kyagulanyi, also known as Barbie believes you shouldn't be friends with someone you don't look up to. "These are the types of people you should not get close to in your life," Barbie, the wife of singer and politician Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, starts. "If there are people you spend most of your time with, but what they talk about, what they do, and how they think doesn't make you feel like you should be like them, get a new circle." At 38 and being married to a rich and celebrated figure, Barbie, who was raised in a village in Ntungamo, has possibly met people from all walks of life and she knows a thing or two about meaningful friendships and leveraging them for success. Her message, which was delivered in a TikTok video, attracted lots of comments. Moll Namugenyi said: "Perfectly said. Thanks our First Lady." Shabirah Husan said: "I have those people but they make me laugh and I like it." Prossy noted: "[I] am looking for a new circle 🥺🥺🥺🥺Thanx [sic] for the advice." Another commenter said: "I need someone I can talk to. Could you please be that person?" Princess Mercy paid tribute to Barbie: "You will always be my mentor 💖💕💕 love u [sic] first lady 🥰🥰" Barbie has been married to Bobi Wine since 2011, runs a non-profit called Caring Hearts Uganda with operations in Kampala, Wakiso, Kiboga, Mukono, and Soroti. Founded in 2012, the organisation is involved in a number of activities including teaching adolescent girls to make and use reusable sanitary towels, constructing facilities to improve sanitation and hygiene in schools, and conducting counseling sessions in schools on topics like HIV/AIDS and drug abuse. They also run programs to facilitate talent promotion in schools through sports, dance, and drama. Source - Pulse.ug

notifier-image-Today, the door swings shut on the Elizabethan era

Today, the door swings shut on the Elizabethan era

For two minutes today the drumming will cease, the pipers will fall silent, the march of boots on procession routes will still. For two minutes today, at the end of the funeral service in Westminster Abbey, before the national anthem is heard, before the coffin is taken away for committal and burial at Windsor, there will be silence. And a door will swing shut. A reign of seven decades will come to a close. For 10 rather bewildering days we have spoken of the Queen and the new king as if they could somehow both be with us. Today that long week of transition comes to an end. In the earliest years of her reign, a new Elizabethan Age was proclaimed by some. Such was the excitement over the young queen, the marvels of technology and the new prosperity, after the grinding grey of the depression years, the sacrifice of World War Two and the hard road of recovery after it. She - wise in her earliest decades to fickle fashion - dismissed all that talk. But if this was not an age - and who are we to contradict her? - then it was an era, the Elizabethan Era. Over decades of wrenching change, she was constancy, for a largely still-conservative country. That profile on the stamps, that voice at Christmas, that bowed head on Remembrance Sunday. Today the door swings shut on that. It swings shut too on "Prince" Charles, on his many decades as Prince of Wales. His staff always bridled at the idea of him as an understudy or apprentice, pointing to his decades of achievement, of carving out a distinct role. His challenge, once Royal Mourning is over, is in part to enjoy - and show that he enjoys - the role of monarch. His mother understood that part of the job was to rally people - to take people's minds off bills and dull jobs and complaining relatives, to entertain and divert and sometimes delight. That he did good work as prince, transforming so many lives for the better, is unquestionable. But often, alongside, the impression given was that things were grim, that there was a lot of cause for complaint. The word "appalling" seemed to come up a lot. Now the door swings shut on that. Britons want to see the best of themselves reflected in their sovereign. And, as the silence stretches out across Westminster, across the capital and the country, the door swings shut on Elizabeth, on the woman known to so many and never really known at all, on the little girl known to her grandpa as Lilibet. In The Unseen Queen, the BBC's beautiful documentary of family-filmed footage of the young princess, Lilibet prances and dances, pranks and laughs. Her eyes shine with laughter. And they shine with love, for her father, the king who would die so early, and her husband Prince Philip, who would be by her side for so long. Over the decades that prancing, dancing, loving girl and young woman was by necessity put out of sight. This past week have come reminders from friends and confidantes, and those members of the public she let into the secret, that Lilibet was always there. She introduced the documentary. "You always hope that future generations will find them interesting," she said of the family films, "and perhaps be surprised that you too were young once". No-one should be too surprised. Because in her final months, that youthful Elizabeth, that Lilibet, returned to public view with that playful gleam in her eye, drawing a marmalade sandwich from her handbag. The handbag is closed. The gleam is now a memory. And today the door swings shut. Source - BBC

notifier-image-US Open: Serena Williams' career over after Ajla Tomljanovic defeat

US Open: Serena Williams' career over after Ajla Tomljanovic defeat

Serena Williams waved farewell to the US Open - and her illustrious career - amid emotional scenes after she lost to Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic on a thrilling night in New York. Williams, who turns 41 this month, expects it to be her final match. It will end a 27-year professional career that brought 23 major singles wins and sees the American widely labelled as the greatest of all time. Williams lost 7-5 6-7 (4-7) 6-1 and had tears running down her face afterwards. The former long-time world number one saved five match points in what proved to be the final game but was powerless to stop a sixth. Almost everyone who could rose to their feet when she departed the court on Arthur Ashe Stadium - the scene of her first major triumph in 1999 and five more of the finest wins in her storied career - for what she intends to be the last time. As she waved goodbye and gave a signature twirl, Tina Turner's pop classic 'Simply The Best' boomed out over the sound system. Asked if she would reconsider retiring after her performances this week, Williams said: "I'm literally playing my way into this and getting better. I should have started sooner this year. I don't think so, but you never know." Williams was overcome with emotion when she was interviewed in the middle of the court, thanking her family, team, the crowd and her fans across the world for their support over the years. "I thank everyone that's here, that's been on my side so many years, decades. Oh my gosh, literally decades," said Williams, who played her first professional tournament as a 14-year-old in 1995. "But it all started with my parents. And they deserve everything. So I'm really grateful for them. "And I wouldn't be Serena if there wasn't [sister] Venus, so thank you, Venus. She's the only reason that Serena Williams ever existed." Tomljanovic, who moves into the fourth round and plays Russia's Liudmila Samsonova, stepped to the side and applauded her opponent as she took the microphone. The world number 46 produced a phenomenal performance to block out the noise and sense of occasion, illustrated by her clinical hitting in the final stages of a brutal contest which lasted three hours and five minutes. Williams produces one last thrilling performance for A-list crowd Williams has long been more than a tennis player and it was a sign of her status - as an American icon and one of the world's most recognisable sport stars - that she announced her retirement in an essay for glossy fashion magazine Vogue. Although she did not use the word retirement itself, preferring to say she was "evolving away" from the sport, her plan is to end her glittering career this fortnight at her home major. Like every night she has appeared this week, Williams emerged on to court after being introduced as the 'Queen of Queen's' - the borough of New York where the tournament is held - in a specially-commissioned video montage narrated by American rap star Queen Latifah. The A-Listers have been out in force on Ashe this week, with Vogue editor Anna Wintour and golf superstar Tiger Woods previously sitting in Williams' box. On Friday night it was R&B singer Ciara and her husband Russell Wilson, who is one of the country's biggest NFL stars, alongside members of Williams' family. Elsewhere, tennis great Billie Jean King, film director Spike Lee and actress Rebel Wilson were also watching. Williams wore the glittery, figure skating-inspired dress she had specially created for the tournament, along with diamond-encrusted trainers, to add further pomp to the occasion. Right to the end, Williams put on a show for the almost capacity 24,000 crowd. The 40-year-old played some of her best tennis in a long while as she fought to prolong her career, putting on one final memorable show for those lucky enough to witness it. How Williams' final match played out Waiting for one of the greatest icons in the sport, as a partisan home crowd was being whipped up, would test the mettle of even the most nerveless players. Williams breezed in with Tomljanovic already long out on the court, having arrived first after touching a bronze plaque at the players' entrance inscribed with Billie Jean King's famous 'Pressure is a privilege' quote. The American looked the more tense and showed it in the first game, with Tomljanovic not looking fazed when she broke her opponent's serve. But Williams settled quickly in the next game as Tomljanovic could not consolidate, going a break ahead for 5-3 and serving for the opening set. Then a poor game appeared at the worst possible time for Williams. Unforced errors from her racquet contributed to Tomljanovic breaking back for 5-4 as did, almost as crucially, a net cord trickling back to Williams' side of the court at 30-30. Growing in confidence as a result of the break, Tomljanovic hit clean winners off both wings - either side of a double fault from Williams - to break again for 6-5 and leave her serving for the opener. She raced into a 40-0 lead and sealed the set at the third opportunity with an inch-perfect forehand winner. Seeing Williams trailing left the crowd inside the world's biggest tennis stadium somewhat subdued. Not for long, however. The world number 605 broke for a 2-0 lead in the second set and moved 4-0 ahead, thanks to some ferocious winners and helped by two double faults from her opponent, to send Ashe back into raptures. Williams was turning back the clock again at this point and was described by British former player Laura Robson, working for BBC Radio 5 Live as an analyst, as playing the best tennis she had seen her play "in years". A slip in concentration allowed Tomljanovic to claw back one of the breaks, but Williams locked in again and held from deuce for 5-2. That sparked an impassioned celebration from Williams - a trademark roar complemented with a fist clench and foot stamp as she bent towards the court - as everyone in the place erupted once again. Anticipation hung in the air as Williams tried to level the match at the first attempt, but she missed four set points and that triggered a fightback from Tomljanovic. Sensing Williams needed their help, the crowd chanted her name around the cavernous arena going into the tie-break and she responded with a composed passage of play to finally level the match after an 84-minute set. Now it was a straight one-set shootout. Williams looked to be suffering a dip in energy - understandably after her physical efforts this week in only her fourth tournament in more than a year - as she fell 5-1 behind in the decider. The end looked inevitable but not before she mustered one last act of resistance. In a final game lasting 15 minutes and 22 points, she eventually succumbed by planting a forehand into the net, which led to the final - potentially loudest - ovation of her career. Source - BBC

Sports

notifier-image-Real Madrid interested in Harry Kane to replace Karim Benzema

Real Madrid interested in Harry Kane to replace Karim Benzema

Harry Kane tops Real Madrid's wanted list as they look for a replacement for Karim Benzema. Kane, 29, has a year left on his Tottenham contract and is undecided on his future. Benzema's departure after 14 years at the club has left the Spanish giants needing a new striker. Roma's Victor Osimhen, Inter's Lautaro Martinez, Chelsea's Kai Havertz and Juventus' Dusan Vlahovic are also on their list of targets. But 14-time European champions Real are huge admirers of England's record goalscorer Kane and are hopeful the exit of several of their high earners this summer can help their bid. Along with the departure of Benzema, Eden Hazard, Marco Arsensio and Mariano Diaz are also leaving Madrid this summer, boosting their transfer and wage budget by 77m euros (£66m). Real remain in negotiations with Borussia Dortmund over England midfielder Jude Bellingham, with the former Birmingham City player keen to sign. Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy wants to keep Kane at his boyhood club, though, and is understood to be wanting in excess of £100m, a price tag Real would be reluctant to pay. Kane has scored 280 goals in 435 appearances for Spurs and is 47 goals shy of Alan Shearer's Premier League goalscoring record of 260. They have kept hold of him before, two summers ago when he tried to engineer a move to Manchester City. But with Spurs unable to deliver Champions League football next season and Kane yet to win a major trophy, the forward's future in north London remains unclear and Real will hope a desire for major trophies will attract him to a move to Spain. Tottenham are still without a manager as well, after a disappointing campaign ended with Ryan Mason as interim boss, but will open talks with Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou in the next few days. The Ballon d'Or-winning Benzema, 35, who joined the Spanish giants from Lyon in 2009, departs Real on a free transfer, having won five Champions Leagues and four La Liga titles with Madrid. Source - BBC

notifier-image-Roma boss charged for using abusive language towards official at Europa League final

Roma boss charged for using abusive language towards official at Europa League final

Roma coach Jose Mourinho has been charged by Uefa for using insulting or abusive language against an official after Wednesday's Europa League final. The Portuguese, 60, was booked by English referee Anthony Taylor in Budapest, where Sevilla beat his Roma side on penalties after a 1-1 draw. The charge relates to an incident in a car park after the game, when Mourinho directed a foul-mouthed rant at Taylor. Both clubs also face several charges over their fans' and players' conduct. Sevilla and Roma have been charged with throwing of objects, lighting of fireworks and improper conduct of their team. Spanish side Sevilla have an additional charge for invasion of the field of play, while Roma were also charged with acts of damage and crowd disturbances. Uefa's control, ethics and disciplinary body (CEDB) will decide on the matter in due course. What did Mourinho do? Mourinho criticised Taylor in his news conference and was later captured confronting the Englishman and other officials as they boarded a minibus in the car park under the stadium. The former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss repeatedly swore and twice shouted about a "disgrace", before talking further in Italian. Taylor and his family were then shouted at by angry fans in Budapest Airport. During the game, Taylor was repeatedly called to the benches to take action as fourth official Michael Oliver struggled to keep control. Taylor issued yellow cards to 13 players, the most bookings in a Europa League game. Seven of them were to Roma players, which was a record for a final. Delays and injuries saw more than 25 minutes of injury time played across the four halves of the game, which went to extra time and then a shootout. Airport abuse described as 'abhorrent' and 'unacceptable' Referees' body PGMOL said it was appalled by the "unjustified and abhorrent" abuse towards Taylor, seen in a video shared on social media. The Manchester-based official, 44, and his family were accosted as they were escorted through the airport. Scuffles then broke out as they disappeared through a secure door, while a chair was thrown. Budapest airport officials said an Italian citizen involved in the incident had been charged with affray. A Budapest Airport statement read: "Fans of the losing Roma team recognised the referee in the food court of the airport, where he was waiting for his flight to depart. "Thanks to the airport operator's close co-operation with the police and the increased police presence at the airport during the arrival and departure of the fans, the authorities intervened immediately, and the referee was escorted to a lounge and boarded his flight safely, accompanied by police officers. "The Italian citizen involved in the incident was apprehended by the police and criminal proceedings have been initiated on charges of affray." PGMOL said in a statement: "[We are] aware of videos circulating on social media showing Anthony Taylor and his family being harassed and abused at Budapest Airport. "We are appalled at the unjustified and abhorrent abuse directed at Anthony and his family as he tries to make his way home from refereeing the Uefa Europa League final. "We will continue to provide our full support to Anthony and his family." The Premier League said it was "shocked and appalled by the unacceptable abuse" directed at Taylor and his family. A spokesperson added: "No-one should have to suffer the inexcusable behaviour they had to endure. Anthony is one of our most experienced and accomplished match officials and we fully support him and his family." West Ham manager David Moyes, whose side play Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final on Wednesday in Prague, said: "All referees have a really difficult job and shouldn't be put through any difficult situations. That's not correct." 'Mourinho should be banned for 10 games' Before Mourinho was charged, former Premier League referee Keith Hackett called on Uefa to give him a 10-game ban and take tougher action against clubs. "What is appalling here is that a referee has gone out and done his job," Hackett told BBC Radio 5 Live. "It is a prestigious game for him - for an English referee to be appointed to the final. "He was looking forward to that, he spent years of refereeing to get to the level he is at - he is a world-class referee. He delivers a very difficult game without much contention and then he is faced with this particular problem as he is in the airport. "It is unprecedented and Uefa have got to take action. The sanction for Mourinho? They have got to come down with a 10-game ban. "They have also got to ban the teams from Europe. They have got to be tough - throw them out of the competition." Hackett said Uefa must also take "responsibility for the security of match officials right up to the time that they leave the airport". Source - BBC

notifier-image-Cristiano Ronald believes Saudi Pro League can become a 'top-five league in the world' if they can only do one thing.

Cristiano Ronald believes Saudi Pro League can become a 'top-five league in the world' if they can only do one thing.

The Saudi Pro League can become a "top-five league in the world" if they can attract more big-name players, says Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo. Lionel Messi, Karim Benzema and Luka Modric have been linked with moves to Saudi Arabia and Ronaldo, 38, says they are "very welcome" to join him. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has completed his first season with Al Nassr after joining in December. He has a contract to 2025 and added he "will continue here" next season. Paris St-Germain have confirmed Messi will leave the club this summer and the Argentina forward, 35, has a role as a tourism ambassador for Saudi Arabia. Ronaldo's former Real Madrid team-mates Benzema and Modric are also thought to be looking for lucrative moves at the tail end of their careers. "If they are coming, big players and big names, young players, 'old players', they are very welcome because if that happens, the league will improve a little bit," Ronaldo said in an interview with the SPL. "The league is very good but I think we have many opportunities to still grow. The league is competitive. We have very good teams, very good Arab players. "But they need to improve a little bit more the infrastructure. Even the referees, the VAR system, should be a little quicker." Ronaldo's second stint with Manchester United ended last November when his contract was cancelled by mutual consent. After becoming the only player to score in five different World Cup tournaments, he scored 14 goals in 16 games to help Riyadh-based Al Nassr finish second behind champions Al Hilal. "I think other small things they need to improve," added Ronaldo, who holds the records for most international goals and appearances. "But I am happy here, I want to continue here, I will continue here. And in my opinion if they continue to do the work that they want to do here, for the next five years, I think the Saudi league can be a top five league in the world."

notifier-image-PGMOL condemns abuse directed at Europa League final referee

PGMOL condemns abuse directed at Europa League final referee

Referees' body PGMOL says it is appalled by the "unjustified and abhorrent" abuse directed at Anthony Taylor in Budapest Airport following Wednesday's Europa League final. The Englishman had officiated the game, where Sevilla beat Roma on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Taylor and his family were then shouted at by angry fans at the airport. It came after Roma boss Jose Mourinho was seen in a car park confronting Taylor with a foul-mouthed rant. In the video, which is being shared on social media, Taylor and his family are accosted by fans as they are escorted through the airport. Scuffles then break out as they disappear through a secure door and a chair is thrown. PGMOL said in a statement: "[We are] aware of videos circulating on social media showing Anthony Taylor and his family being harassed and abused at Budapest Airport. "We are appalled at the unjustified and abhorrent abuse directed at Anthony and his family as he tries to make his way home from refereeing the Uefa Europa League final. "We will continue to provide our full support to Anthony and his family." Meanwhile, Uefa is waiting for reports from match officials and delegates before deciding whether to take action against Mourinho with regards to the separate incident in the car park under the stadium after the match. Mourinho criticised Taylor in his news conference and he was later captured ranting and making pointed comments as Taylor and officials were boarding a minibus. The Portuguese repeatedly swore and twice shouted about a "disgrace" before talking in Italian. Uefa's chief refereeing officer Roberto Rosetti attempted to calm the situation down. Mourinho was booked during an ill-tempered game, with Taylor repeatedly called to the benches to take action as fourth official Michael Oliver struggled to keep control. Taylor issued yellow cards to 13 players, the most bookings in a Europa League game. Seven of them were to Roma players, a record for a final. Delays and injuries saw more than 25 minutes of injury time played across the four halves of the game, which went to extra time and then a shootout. Source - BBC