Latest news with #GFP
Morocco World
2 days ago
- Politics
- Morocco World
UN Commends Morocco for Advancing Peace, Justice in Central African Republic
Morocco has emerged as a key player in the reconstruction of the Central African Republic (CAR), with the United Nations recognizing its leading role in advancing the rule of law and institutional reform in the conflict-affected nation. In its 2024 report on peacebuilding, the UN Secretary-General commended Morocco for its sustained diplomatic efforts and strategic leadership as chair of the Central African Republic (CAR) configuration within the UN Peacebuilding Commission. Since assuming this role in 2019, Morocco has mobilized critical political and financial backing for judicial and security reforms in CAR. Its initiatives have helped stabilize the country's fragile institutions and secure international commitment for long-term peacebuilding. The report credits Morocco's diplomacy with enhancing support for the Special Criminal Court — a hybrid tribunal mandated to prosecute serious crimes — and for backing grassroots reconciliation mechanisms. These actions, in coordination with the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and the UN Development Program (UNDP), have been funded through the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), ensuring close collaboration with national authorities in Bangui. UN leadership stresses that building the rule of law is essential for preventing future conflicts. The report calls for tighter coordination between agencies like the Global Focal Point for the Rule of Law (GFP), the Peacebuilding Commission, and the Peacebuilding Support Office. It also recommends greater integration of GFP partners — including OHCHR, UN Women, UNICEF, and UNODC — early in the planning stages of peacebuilding programs. Cautioning against institutional setbacks during the withdrawal of peacekeeping missions, the report warns of the dangers of losing momentum in judicial reforms, transitional justice, and prison system improvements. It advocates for expanded use of adaptable PBF funding to sustain essential programs even after missions end. To reinforce these goals, the UN urges stronger communication between the GFP and the Peacebuilding Support Office (PBSO), and more frequent deployment of joint teams, including from the UN's logistical hub in Brindisi, Italy. Above all, the report underlines that the success of rule of law initiatives hinges on lasting political will, both domestically and internationally. In this context, Morocco is held up as a model of commitment and vision, with the report framing its leadership as emblematic of Africa's growing voice in shaping international peacebuilding efforts. Morocco's actions, the UN concludes, are helping to embed justice as a foundation for sustainable peace, and reinforcing its reputation as a key diplomatic actor within the UN's multilateral system. In parallel to its diplomatic leadership, Morocco remains one of the UN's most active troop-contributing countries, with over 1,700 Moroccan peacekeepers currently deployed across missions.
GMA Network
5 days ago
- Business
- GMA Network
Globe reaches 61.6M mobile subscribers in Q1 2025
Globe Telecom has recorded 61.6 million mobile subscribers as of end-March 2025, up 5% from 58.8 million the same period last year. Globe also said its broadband customers grew to 1.83 million as of end-March 2025, up from 1.72 million the same period last year. The telecommunications company said 87% of its total service revenues in the first quarter of 2025 came from data, up from 85% the previous year. Globe president and CEO Carl Cruz said it is a strong sign that Filipinos are embracing a digital-first lifestyle. "We're not just going digital for the sake of it. We're building solutions that reflect real needs, real affordability, and real stories of connection. That means helping students with their online learning, helping an OFW see their family over a clear video call, or allowing small businesses to receive payments digitally. These moments are what matter,' said Cruz. As of April, GFiber Prepaid (GFP), on the other hand, earned a standout Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 67—a strong indicator of satisfaction and trust among value-conscious households. With 70% reload rates—the highest among prepaid fiber brands—and a 53% quarter-on-quarter subscriber growth, the product is expanding rapidly into income-challenged households, said Globe. "These numbers are indicative that customers prefer our services. We'll keep innovating, investing, and pushing technology forward, but always with the customer in mind. When you build with empathy, the impact follows," Cruz said.—Jon Viktor Cabuenas/AOL, GMA Integrated News
Time of India
07-06-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Discover 10 unique jellyfish species and their interesting facts
Jellyfish are some of the most fascinating and mysterious creatures in the ocean. While many people are familiar with the common jellyfish, there are countless lesser-known species that are just more captivating. From glowing deep-sea drifters to jellyfish that resemble fried eggs or alarm systems, their diversity in shape, size and behavior is truly astounding. In this list, you'll discover 10 unique jellyfish species that showcase the ocean's wonder and complexity. Each one reveals something remarkable about marine life ranging from survival strategies to strange appearances that challenge what we think we know about sea creatures. 10 amazing jellyfish species Cauliflower jellyfish The Cauliflower jellyfish is a truly unique sight in the ocean thanks to its thick and bumpy bell that resembles a fluffy cauliflower head. This jellyfish floats gracefully in warm tropical and subtropical waters especially around the Indo-Pacific region. Its short and frilly tentacles trail beneath its bell helps in creating a soft and textured look. Though it has stinging cells, these stings are usually mild and not harmful to humans. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Device Made My Power Bill Drop Overnight elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Pre-Order Undo Beyond its unusual appearance, the Cauliflower Jellyfish plays an important role in the marine food chain by feeding on small plankton and providing food for larger sea creatures. Source: Wikipedia Mangrove box jellyfish The Mangrove box jellyfish is a small but fascinating creature that lives in shallow and sheltered waters near mangrove forests. Unlike many jellyfish that simply drift, it actively swims using its box-shaped body and its sharpness helps in quick movements. This jellyfish's 24 eyes give it surprisingly good vision by helping it navigate through the murky water and avoid obstacles. Though tiny, which is about the size of a fingernail, it's a skilled hunter that feeds on small shrimp and tiny fish. Its sting is mild as compared to other box jellyfish that makes it less dangerous to humans but still a remarkable example of nature's adaptability. Source: Wikipedia Crystal jellyfish The Crystal jellyfish lives up to its name with its stunningly transparent and glass-like body that almost disappears in water. These species are native to the Pacific Ocean, especially along the North American west coast. This jellyfish may look delicate but it's a scientific powerhouse. It was the source of green fluorescent protein (GFP) which was a discovery that revolutionized modern biology and earned a Nobel Prize. They typically grow up to 10 cm in diameter and glow faintly green in the dark thanks to bioluminescence. While harmless to humans, the Crystal jellyfish is a brilliant reminder of how some of nature's most delicate creatures can illuminate entire fields of science. Source: Wikipedia White-spotted jellyfish They are graceful and easily recognizable because of their features, which is a translucent bell adorned with distinctive white dots that gives it a starry and ethereal appearance. They are originally native to the warm waters of the western Pacific, particularly around Australia and this species has now spread to various oceans worldwide, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. Unlike many jellyfish, it feeds primarily by filtering plankton from the water thus they act as a kind of underwater vacuum cleaner. Though it can sting, it poses little threat to humans. Despite its gentle nature, its rapid spread in some areas has raised ecological concerns that makes it both beautiful and controversial. Source: Wikipedia Upside-down jellyfish Unlike most jellyfish that drift with their bell facing upward, the Upside-Down Jellyfish prefers to rest on the ocean floor by bell down and tentacles waving upward. They are found in shallow warm coastal waters around the world, especially in mangroves and lagoons and this unique behavior allows it to host photosynthetic algae within its tissues. These algae produce nutrients through sunlight that are essential for feeding the jellyfish in return. Its delicate and frilly tentacles shimmer with colors ranging from golden to bluish hues creates a mesmerizing underwater spectacle. They are harmless to humans and are a perfect example of nature's unexpected adaptations. Source: Wikipedia Black sea nettle The Black Sea Nettle is a striking giant of the jellyfish world that is known for its deep and almost inky black bell that can reach up to 1 meter across. They are found mainly in the coastal waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean, particularly off California, this mysterious jellyfish drifts gracefully with long and flowing tentacles that can stretch over 5 meters. Its dark color helps it blend into the deep ocean shadows and makes it both beautiful and elusive. While its sting is potent for small prey, it poses little risk to humans but remains an awe-inspiring sight for divers lucky enough to encounter it. Source: Wikipedia Fried egg jellyfish They are named for their unique appearance that resembles a sunny-side-up egg and the Fried Egg Jellyfish is a charming and unusual species that are found mostly in the Mediterranean Sea. Its translucent bell is topped with a bright yellow dome-shaped structure that looks like an egg yolk that makes it instantly recognizable. This jellyfish is often spotted floating near the surface where it feeds on plankton and small fish. They are harmless to humans and their look makes them a favorite among divers and marine enthusiasts, reminding us that the ocean is full of playful surprises. Source: Wikipedia Lion's mane Jellyfish The Lion's Mane Jellyfish is one of the largest jellyfish species in the world which is easily recognized by its massive and flowing tentacles that resemble a lion's mane hence as their name. They are found mostly in the cold waters of the Arctic, North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans. Its bell can reach over 2 meters in diameter with tentacles extending up to 30 meters. Despite its intimidating size, it feeds primarily on small fish and plankton. While its sting can be painful, it's rarely fatal to humans. The Lion's Mane Jellyfish is a true ocean giant and a breathtaking example of marine magnificence. Source: Wikipedia Atolla jellyfish They are known as the "alarm jellyfish," the Atolla Jellyfish is a deep-sea marvel famous for its stunning bioluminescent display. They are found in the dark depths of oceans worldwide and they produce a mesmerizing blue glow when threatened by flashing bright rings of light to confuse predators and attract help from other creatures. Its bell is typically around 15 centimeters wide and fringed with long and trailing tentacles. Despite living thousands of meters below the surface, the Atolla's glowing light creates an otherworldly spectacle that has fascinated scientists and ocean explorers alike that makes it one of the most enchanting deep-sea jellyfish. Source: Wikipedia Narcomedusae Narcomedusae are a fascinating group of jellyfish that are known for their unique body shape and surprising hunting skills. Unlike typical jellyfish with large bells, Narcomedusae have flattened umbrella-like bodies with tentacles that extend from the edges which gives them an alien appearance. These deep-sea dwellers are agile predators who use their tentacles to capture small crustaceans and plankton with quick and precise movements. They are often transparent or pale in color and they drift silently through the dark ocean depths. Their unusual form and stealthy hunting style make Narcomedusae one of the ocean's most intriguing and mysterious jellyfish groups. Source: Wikipedia 10 fascinating facts about jellyfish Jellyfish possibly existed prior to dinosaurs Jellyfish possibly existed long before dinosaurs with evidence suggesting that they appeared over 500 million years ago during the Cambrian period. Jellyfish's simple and soft-bodied structure which lacks bones and a brain has helped them to survive numerous mass extinction events and adapt to changing ocean conditions. Their ability to thrive in diverse environments has made them some of the oldest living creatures on Earth. Unlike dinosaurs, which dominated land ecosystems for millions of years before going extinct, jellyfish have continued to flourish in the oceans and are showcasing their incredible resilience and ancient origins. Jellyfish successfully adjusting to climate shifts Jellyfish are successfully adjusting to climate shifts caused by rising ocean temperatures and changes in water chemistry. Unlike many marine species, jellyfish can tolerate warmer and low-oxygen environments which gives them a survival advantage. Their rapid reproduction and limited natural predators enable their populations to grow quickly by often resulting in large blooms. These blooms can impact local ecosystems and fisheries by disrupting food chains and competing with other marine life. Jellyfish's ability to thrive under changing conditions highlights their resilience and adaptability makes them one of the few species that benefit from the challenges posed by climate change in the oceans. They are not classified as fish Despite their name, jellyfish are not true fish. Fish are vertebrates which means that they have a backbone along with other characteristics like gills and fins. Jellyfish, on the other hand, are invertebrates as they lack a backbone entirely. They belong to a group called cnidarians which also includes sea anemones and corals. Jellyfish have a simple body made mostly of water with a soft, bell-shaped form and tentacles. Instead of bones, they rely on a jelly-like substance for structure. Their anatomy and biology are very different from fish which is why scientists don't classify them as fish at all. Jellyfish body is made up of 98% water Jellyfish bodies are made up of about 98% water which is why they have a soft and gelatinous texture. This high water content makes them very light and flexible that allows them to move gracefully through the ocean. Their structure consists mostly of a jelly-like substance called mesoglea which is sandwiched between two thin layers of cells. Because they are mostly water, jellyfish can easily float and drift with ocean currents. This composition also means that they don't need heavy bones or muscles to move as they help them to conserve energy as they navigate their watery environment. Certain jellyfish could live forever Some species of jellyfish like Turritopsis dohrnii are known as 'immortal jellyfish' because of their unique ability to potentially avoid aging and death. When faced with stress, injury or old age, these jellyfish can revert their cells back to an earlier stage of development which is a process called transdifferentiation. This allows them to transform from a mature adult back into a juvenile polyp stage, essentially starting their life cycle over again. This remarkable ability means that they can theoretically repeat this cycle indefinitely which makes them biologically immortal under ideal conditions. However, they can still die from disease or predators. Jellyfish eat and excrete together Jellyfish have a very simple digestive system with just one opening that serves as both their mouth and anus. This means they take in food and expel waste through the same hole. After capturing prey with their tentacles, jellyfish bring the food to this opening to digest it inside their gastrovascular cavity. Once digestion is complete, any waste materials are expelled back out through the same opening. This simple design works well for jellyfish allows them to process food efficiently even though their bodies lack complex organs like separate mouths and intestines. They often travel individually Jellyfish usually drift alone through the ocean rather than travelling in groups. Unlike fish that swim in groups for protection or hunting, jellyfish tend to move independently because their movements mostly depend on ocean currents. While sometimes large groups called blooms or swarms occur these gatherings are more about favorable conditions like food availability rather than social behavior. Travelling solo allows jellyfish to cover wide areas and take advantage of different food sources without competition from others. Their simple nervous system doesn't support complex group behaviors so individual drifting is their natural way of life. They are one of the world's deadliest species Some jellyfish species are incredibly dangerous because of their potent venom. For example, the box jellyfish has toxins that can cause extreme pain, paralysis, and even death in humans. Their venom attacks the heart, nervous system and skin cells which make these stings potentially life-threatening without immediate medical treatment. Despite their simple appearance, these jellyfish possess one of the most powerful venoms in the animal kingdom. While not all jellyfish are deadly, the ones that are make them some of the most feared creatures in the ocean and among the deadliest animals on the planet. Certain jellyfish are safe to eat Not all jellyfish are edible but some species are considered a delicacy in various parts of the world especially in Asian cuisines. These edible jellyfish are typically processed by drying or pickling to reduce their high water content and improve texture. They're often used in salads, soups and stir-fries as they are valued for their crunchy texture rather than strong flavor. Eating jellyfish can be a good source of protein and low in calories. However, it's important to properly prepare them to remove any toxins and ensure they're safe for consumption. Also read: Discover 5 massive giant crocodiles that are now extinct
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
South Dakota's fall pheasant outlook is ‘very positive'
PIERRE, S.D. (KELO) — The forecast looks good for another strong season of pheasant hunting in South Dakota this fall, according to a state Game, Fish and Parks Department official. This comes after a 2024 harvest estimated at 1.3 million roosters, which was the highest in four years and once again the best in the nation. GFP wants more river otters trapped in eastern counties A mild winter suggested that more hens were available for breeding this spring, and average temperatures and moisture during April and May produced good habitat for nesting and brood raising, said Alex Solem, a Huron-based senior biologist for the state Wildlife Division. 'We're set for hopefully a very productive fall with good bird numbers,' Solem said Friday. 'We're cautiously optimistic that we're going to have a very good fall.' His comments accompanied a presentation on Friday to the state Game, Fish and Parks Commission during its meeting in Aberdeen. Solem said the 2024 harvest, based on a sample of 15,000 hunters, was a 5.5% increase over the previous year. He said the 140,262 hunters who took to the field were up 3.6%. They included 58,195 residents, which were up 1.2%, and 82,607 nonresidents, up 5.3%. 'I can't stress how good last season was,' Solem said, pointing out that South Dakota saw more roosters bagged in the first two weeks of the regular season than almost all other states combined. Hunters also took an estimated 98,962 prairie grouse, a 42% increase from 2023, which Solem described as 'crazy.' There were additional hunting days in January, but the grouse harvest occurs primarily in September and October. He said the 19,223 hunters were up 11.9%, with 10,898 residents, which were up 13.3%, and 8,325 nonresidents, up 10%. It was the fourth consecutive year of higher harvest. Solem gave the commission an overview of how conditions can shape pheasant numbers. He said weather plays a major factor, with hen survival affected by the severity of winter, while spring moisture and temperature affect nesting. 'Usually cool damp conditions can hamper nest success on the landscape,' he said, with brood survival depending on habitat conditions and on insect abundance that provide protein for chicks to reach adulthood. But more than anything, habitat is key to the long-term population trends, according to Solem. He said pheasants need grass, and having CRP acres and rotational grazing are important. Solem said cumulative snowfall November to March is a predictor; the more snow, the more impact on pheasant abundance. Mild winters lead to better hen survival, according to Solem. He said South Dakota had 'a phenomenal mild winter' in many places with below normal snowfall. 'The mild winter can certainly help us,' he said. But that meant other sources of moisture were needed to get grass growing to provide good cover, according to Solem. April and May moisture needs to be right between 4 to 6 inches to initiate cover. 'We've had really good timely rains,' he said. April and May temperatures also matter, with higher average cumulative temps tending to match with better production, according to Solem. 'The grass is responding great. It's going very, very well,' he said. Damage from flash flooding and hailstorms can reduce population in local areas, but quality habitat can mitigate extreme weather events, Solem said. Having good quality winter habitat provides thermal cover and allows pheasants to avoid predators, he said. GFP Secretary Kevin Robling recognized the department's habitat staff for their efforts and the private landowners and ag producers throughout South Dakota who cooperate and set aside acres for wildlife management purposes through rotational grazing. He said South Dakota has 'a land ethic second to none across the nation' and the pheasant production reflects that. 'It has a lot to do with our ag producers and landowners across South Dakota,' Robling said. 'We thank them.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Goa minister has exposed corruption, governor Pillai must dismiss govt: Opposition
Panaji: A day after art and culture minister Govind Gaude raised serious allegations of corruption in his govt, the opposition Monday demanded that governor P S Sreedharan Pillai must take note of the minister's comments and dismiss Pramod Sawant-led state govt. 'Gaude's allegations against the CM exposes BJP govt's corruption. The anti-corruption branch should probe these claims and take action against those guilty of bribery,' said opposition leader Yuri Alemao. 'It is time for the BJP to prioritise transparency and root out corruption. Hope BJP doesn't say it is 'their internal matter'. Party with differences is exposed by 'differences'?' While Congress and AAP demanded a probe into the allegations that are directly linked to a department led by the chief minister, GFP said that the allegations reveal the 'utter frustration' within BJP-led govt. 'The balloon has burst. Govt's own ministers are exposing the corruption. This govt has no moral right to continue. The governor should dismiss this govt,' said Congress' state president Amit Patkar. Patkar said he expects calls for an independent probe to be ignored as BJP would cover up the allegations to protect govt. GFP president and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai said BJP has cultivated and encouraged corruption in every department. 'Cabinet minister Govind Gaude's statement that contractors need to pay bribes to get files cleared is not much of a revelation, but a sign of utter frustration with his own govt. Over the years, I've exposed innumerable scams, small and big, that have dragged Goa down the path of irreversible ruin,' Sardesai said. AAP MLA Cruz Silva said corruption has hit the tribal communities the hardest and that Gaude has exposed BJP's neglect towards the community. Silva has demanded action and an independent probe into Gaude's statement. 'If Govind Gaude, a minister from the Goa ministry, is casting doubts and aspersions of corruption, then instead of calling Gaude's statement irresponsible... Sawant must step down and conduct an inquiry on his own department and prove that the doubts and aspersions of corruption made by Gaude are false,' said NCP (SP) spokesperson and Goa desk in charge Clyde Crasto. 'First the Taleigao MLA said govt takes money. After him, former BJP minister Pandurang Madkaikar said he was asked to pay Rs 15 lakh to get work done. Now, a minister for sports and art and culture in this current govt has said that files are not being passed and that one needs to meet an official at the Shram Shakti is ridiculous,' said AAP's Francis Coelho. He said Gaude is not above reproach as he has 'eaten money and destroyed Kala Academy'.
