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New research from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) shows that African states’ imports of major arms fell by 44% between 2015–19 and 2020–24, mainly due to decreases in Algeria and Morocco’s arms imports.   A fact sheet on Trends in International Arms Transfers, 2024, shows that Algeria’s arms imports dropped by 73% in […]

According to new data on international arms transfers recently published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Ukraine has become the world’s largest importer of major weapons in 2020-24, with imports almost 100 times higher than in 2015-19. European arms import overall grew by 155 per cent between 2020-2024, as states responded to Russia’s

On October 23, 1996, in Bukavu, he was captured by the forces of the AFDL (Alliance of Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Congo) of Laurent Kabila. The rebels killed him. The streets were deserted, people were holed up in their houses, and corpses lay in the streets of the city. Twenty-nine years later, the

One of the oldest known fruits, found in the writings and artifacts of many cultures and religions, is the “pomegranate” (Punica granatum), which originated in Persia. This nutrient dense, antioxidant rich fruit has been revered as a symbol of health, fertility and eternal life. It belongs to the Lythraceae family and is a deciduous shrub

Among the Karimojong people of north-eastern Uganda, time is marked by ethnic seasonal festivals. One of these is ‘Akitocol‘, the feast of the elders: male youths make offerings of meat as a sign of respect to the elders (ngikasikou). Karimojong individuals become official members and can have their say in the community after they go

In addition to reflecting the beauty and harshness of the desert, Bedouin women are remarkable for their resilience, strength, and deep sense of solidarity. They are also curious and cultivate the value of hospitality. Sister Cecilia Sierra tells us how she came to know them. They are curious. On one occasion we visited a Bedouin

Christian thinking can shape culture, exploring how best to bring the core content of the Gospel message to different cultural contexts and groups. Seeking to influence cultures through critical thinking is precisely what is described as evangelizing cultures. Half the world’s population is predicted to be in cities by 2025. Even if the prediction has

Cardinal Van Thuan was arrested in 1975 and spent 13 years in prison, nine of them in solitary confinement in Hanoi. He used his time not only for personal prayer but also to write a reflection that continues to inspire. Van Thuan had been appointed as Coadjutor Archbishop of Saigon just seven days before South

Preparedness for a tough life is the foundation for achievement. Very many great men from humble backgrounds rose to high levels of performance precisely because they adopted the tough path. We read of Abraham Lincoln striving to complete his studies and walking some 50 miles to consult a book in the nearest library. Lal Bahadur

“Teaching is a wonderful experience. I try to give my life for others through education”. Comboni Sister Beatriz Cristina Mata, who has been in South Sudan for twenty-five years, shares her experience. After the terrible earthquake that hit my native Mexico, in 1985, I had to reconsider many things and this led me, after a