News
North Korea to Reopen Borders to International Tourists in December
In December, North Korea is set to reopen its borders to international tourists, focusing initially on the northeastern city of Samjiyon, according to tour operators.
This development suggests that the isolated nation is preparing to allow larger groups of foreign visitors after maintaining strict COVID-19 border restrictions for several years.
Beijing-based Koryo Tours announced on Wednesday that it had received confirmation from local partners about the resumption of tourism in Samjiyon and potentially across other parts of the country starting in December 2024.
This marks a significant shift, as North Korea has largely been closed to international travellers since the onset of the pandemic in 2020.
Although international flights to and from North Korea resumed last year, and a select group of Russian tourists were allowed a private visit in February, the country has not fully opened its doors to broader international tourism.
Koryo Tours expressed enthusiasm about the development, noting that after a four-year wait, they are eager to welcome tourists back to North Korea.
The company highlighted that its local partner would soon provide more details regarding travel itineraries and specific dates.
Samjiyon, located near the Chinese border, has been a focal point for North Korean development efforts.
The city is being transformed into what North Korean officials describe as a “socialist utopia” and a model of a “highly-civilized mountain city.”
This transformation includes the construction of new residential areas, hotels, a ski resort, and various commercial, cultural, and medical facilities.
The development project has faced scrutiny, leading to the recent dismissal or demotion of senior officials by Kim Jong Un due to what was termed as “irresponsible” management of the Samjiyon initiative.
KTG Tours also confirmed that they would be offering trips to Samjiyon starting this winter, signalling a broader reopening of North Korean tourism.
News
Benue Governor Alia “State Prepared for Flood”
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has assured that the state is ready to handle any potential flooding from the release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam. After meeting with President Bola Tinubu, Alia stressed that while they hope the flood won’t happen, they are well-prepared. He noted that the state is focusing on prevention, such as river dredging, and is actively informing residents about flood risks.
The upcoming release of water from the dam has raised concerns, especially after recent severe floods in Borno State. Alia emphasized that his administration is taking proactive steps and is working with emergency teams to manage any challenges. He also defended the transparency of his local government nominations, encouraging candidates to accept the outcomes of the October 5 elections.
News
NIHSA Warns of Imminent Flooding as Cameroon Releases Water from Lagdo Dam
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has alerted Nigerians residing in flood-prone areas to relocate, following the release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam into River Niger and River Benue.
The release, which began on September 18, 2024, poses flood risks to 11 states, including Adamawa, Kogi, Benue, and Bayelsa.
NIHSA urges individuals to clear drainages and avoid floodplains. This comes days after severe flooding in Borno killed over 30 people.
News
Israel Acknowledges Role in Escalating Conflict with Hezbollah Amid Deadly Attacks
Israel admitted to initiating a “new era” of war after two consecutive days of explosive attacks targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon.
On Tuesday, pager explosions killed several, including children, and wounded over 2,800. A second wave on Wednesday, involving walkie-talkies and phones, killed at least 20 and injured 450.
One explosion occurred during a Hezbollah funeral, with reports suggesting Hezbollah’s elite Radwan unit was heavily impacted. Israel believes the death toll is higher than officially reported.
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