The hidden threats of the US military bases in African nations

 

The U.S. and Cameroonian forces. Photo credit: dronecenter.bard.edu

The United States maintains a network of military outposts across Africa through cooperative security locations, forward operating sites, and drone bases, often in cooperation with host nations. Despite its claims that it does not want permanent bases, the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) operates under various arrangements in multiple countries.

 

The US government argues that its bases' access points throughout Africa are essential for fighting extremist organizations like Boko Haram and al-Qaeda affiliates, especially in the Sahel and Horn of Africa regions, as well as for advancing its counterterrorism goals, securing strategic interests, and countering the influence of rival powers like China and Russia.

 

However, this raises concerns about the veracity of those bases in African nations, considering the attacks on other nations using US-established bases. I don't think it makes sense for America to convince the world that establishing bases is to combat terrorism, as no nation faces global dangers like the United States. More significantly, neither China nor Russia poses a threat to the Black Continent.

 

Following the widespread independence of African countries, the US administration and the West implemented a number of misleading programs to persuade African leaders of their advantages. However, given America's history of aggression against oil-producing nations like Iraq, Iran, and Libya, it is simple to accept that America has bases in Africa, not because it cares for the continent's citizens.

 

Securing access to Africa's abundant natural resources, particularly oil and gold, and maintaining U.S. geopolitical dominance in a continent increasingly sought by foreign investment and influence are the fundamental reasons why the US established bases in African nations. As a result, the US bases serve as a reminder to rival nations like China and Russia that "our bases are there, so don't come close."

 

I believe that strategic access to key geographic locations, such as Djibouti - Camp Lemonier, Kenya - Manda Bay, Niger - Air Base 101, Niamey, and Air Base 201, Egypt -MFO South Camp, Egypt - MFO South Camp, and Cameroon - Contingency Location Garoua, would enable a rapid attack on any rich resource country. In my opinion, America’s aggression against rich source nations should serve as a lesson to African leaders to prevent the setting up of bases in African countries.

 

The United States used military equipment stationed at bases in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, such as San Isidro Air Base and Las Américas International Airport, which were authorized for U.S. use for counter-narcotics operations, to launch its attack on Venezuela and capture its president, Nicholas Maduro. After Libya and Iraq yesterday and Venezuela today, which African nation is next?

 

AFRICOM frequently overshadows diplomatic and humanitarian organizations, weakens African sovereignty, and displaces civilian development initiatives. It also encourages internal repression by supporting authoritarian regimes.

American military installations in African nations present a complex threat that includes worries about sovereignty, neo-colonial influence, and the possibility of further instability. Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah, saw this threat and warned the newly independent African nations before he was deposed and died in exile. 

Why the intrepid honey badger will fight anything

 

The honey badger wouldn't allow the lions to intimidate it because of its small size. Photo credit: Dailymail.co.uk

The honey badger, Mellivora capensis, is found in a range of environments in sub-Saharan Africa, from the Western Cape in South Africa northward to southern Morocco and southwestern Algeria. Along with the Arabian Peninsula and the Middle East, they can also be found in parts of western and southern Asia, including Iran, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.

 

Why is such a small creature so resilient? The Bible asserts that violent claims to the heavenly kingdom have existed since the time of John the Baptist. The interpretation often emphasizes intense fervor, vigor, and survival instinct. In the seas, the big fish devour the smaller ones, whereas in the jungle, the lion preys on the little animals. Therefore, the honey badger has unique natural weapons to help it survive its dangerous habitat.  

 

Its bold and aggressive character, which enables it to confront powerful animals like antelopes, lions, and even elephants, is the source of its survival instinct. For instance, honey badgers have been known to chase juvenile lions away from kills and to attack huge ungulates like buffalo, wildebeest, and waterbuck; some reports even imply that they target these animals' genitalia, causing fatal blood loss.

 

Their physical adaptations play a major role in this ability to endure hundreds of bee stings while raiding beehives for larvae, a preferred food source over honey itself. Honey badgers have thick, loose skin that is resistant to bites and stings, and their robust jaws and bite force allow them to tame dangerous snakes like cobras, whereas their strong claws can shatter open tortoise shells.

 

Despite their diminutive size, honey badgers are incredibly clever and creative. They can dig or evaluate termite mounds using tools like logs and sticks, and they have been seen cooperating to break out of prison. Their use of anal glands to emit a foul-smelling liquid as a defense measure, which can be noticed up to 130 feet (40 meters) away, further highlights their boldness and territorial behavior.

 

Larger predators like leopards, lions, tigers, hippos, elephants, and crocodiles can kill them, but their active defense style usually discourages attacks, and they typically manage to drive off or destroy larger creatures. The honey badger is one of the most dangerous little predators in the animal kingdom because of its physical toughness, cunning, and unwavering hostility.

 

The fight for survival is not limited to people alone but also to animals. Thus, the fight for survival is not merely a battle against others or nature, but also a complex interplay. The looseness of the skin of the animal badger allows the animal to twist and turn within its own hide, enabling it to retaliate even when bitten. This physical armor significantly reduces the amount of venom injected during a bite.

 

The honey badger may still be temporarily incapacitated or fall into a coma after a large dose of venom, such as from a cobra, but it often recovers after a period of rest and resumes its activities, sometimes even finishing the meal it was eating before the bite. There are hundreds of documented cases showing that honey badgers have survived bites from highly venomous snakes.

 

The legendary Queen of Sheba: Where did she go?

 

The Queen of Sheba is well-known for her enormous wealth and for visiting King Solomon to gauge his level of intelligence. Photo credit: Freepik.com

The story of the Queen of Sheba is interwoven with Ethiopian, Islamic, Christian, and Jewish traditions. She was referred to as the Queen of Sheba by Jews and Christians, Queen Bilquis by Arabs, and Macheda by Ethiopians. Between 1000 and 950 BC, she is reported to have traveled to Jerusalem with a convoy of valuable stones, gold, and spices to meet King Solomon.

 

Who was the Queen of Sheba in reality? From where did she originate? Did she actually have a meeting with King Solomon? Some of the stories in the Bible are both fascinating and inspirational, posing many questions. She was referred to as the Queen of Sheba by the Jews and Christians, Macheda by the Ethiopians, and Queen Bilquis by the Arabs.

 

The fact that Queen Sheba's story has both Jewish and Persian roots, as well as being mentioned in the Koran, adds to its intrigue. The Jewish Talmud, the Bible, the Old Testament, the Koran, and the Kebra Nagast, an Ethiopian literature from the fourteenth century, all tell her story. According to these accounts, she was a wealthy and astute monarch who was drawn to Solomon's reputation for knowledge.

 

Menelik, whose inherent meaning is "son of the wise man," was born out of King Solomon's relationship with the queen. Menelik, who grew up and became king, adopted the lion of Judah as his emblem after ascending to the throne because Ethiopians are the chosen people. When he came to Axum as an adult and wanted to see the alleged father Solomon, he either stole or received the Ark of the Covenant.

 

The Ark of the Covenant was not a common item that anybody could easily touch or steal, so in my opinion, this story is a little confusing. Only the Levites, more especially Kohath's sons from the priestly class, are involved. Given the story that "when they came to the threshing floor of Nachon, when the oxen stumbled, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, and he was struck," how could the Ark of the Covenant be stolen?

 

The queen reportedly resided 120 kilometers from Yemen's capital, Sana. The ancient capital of Saba was located in Marib, east of Sana. As time went on, Marib was located at the intersection of caravans carrying incense toward the Red Sea and the entire region.

 

In May 2008, a team of German archaeologists declared that they had discovered at Axum, Ethiopia, not only the remnants of the famous Queen of Sheba's palace but also the location of the Ark of the Covenant, which held the Tablets of the Law that Moses had received on Sinai. Beneath the ruins of another structure constructed by a later Christian ruler, the remnants of the Queen of Sheba's palace from the tenth century BC were found.

 

The queen most likely came from Marib, which was the capital of ancient Saba and a hamlet east of Sana in modern-day Yemen. Therefore, if she existed, she may have been born and raised in Marib, which is in the middle of the desert. According to legend, she was incredibly attractive, interesting, and wealthy. The magnificence of enormous temples and palaces surrounds his legendary presence.

 

The dominion of the Sabeans also extended over the African continent, including the current Yemen, Eritrea, Somalia, and above all, Ethiopia, wherein the Axum seat of the sovereigns of the Axumite empire was established, and whose current site has been discovered by the German archaeologists.

 

However, who was the Queen of Sheba, what realm did she rule over, and why did she fabricate a legend? The material found in the Sacred Book of Rastafarians, associated with reggae music and claiming to be the successors of Christianity from Haile Selassie, Ras Tafari, is the basis for what has been said thus far concerning the Queen of Sheba and her remarkable tale.

 

We can’t overlook the biblical allusions to the Queen of Sheba's journey to learn about Solomon in 1 Kings 10:4 and Matthew 12:42, which states, "The queen of the south shall rise in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here."

 

Rastafarians believe they are the descendants of King David through a lineage traced back to the union of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, a belief supported by the Ethiopian religious text Kebra Nagast. They view the Ethiopian Solomonic Dynasty, to which Emperor Haile Selassie I belonged, as a direct representation of King David's royal line.

 

According to history, the queen lived about 120 km from Sana, the capital of Yemen. East of Sana in Marib, which was the capital of ancient Saba. Marib was situated at the point where caravans that carried incense in the direction of the Red Sea crossed, and the whole region, with the passing of the years.

 

In May 2008, a group of German archaeologists announced that they had found in Axum, Ethiopia, not only the remains of the palace of the legendary Queen of Sheba but also the place where the Ark of the Covenant was kept, which contained the Tablets of the Law, the Ten Commandments.

 

According to the story, the Queen of Sheba returned to her own nation after successfully challenging Solomon's wisdom and receiving lavish presents in exchange. She is never referenced again in the biblical account. According to Ethiopian legend, she subsequently gave birth to Menelik I, the first Ethiopian ruler, who is credited with returning the Ark of the Covenant to Ethiopia.

 

The colorful ladies of the village of San Basilio de Palenque

 

Vibrant women from San Basilio de Palenque sell fruit to tourists. Photo credit: Kimkim.com

The first free African village in the Americas is San Basilio de Palenque, which is situated southeast of Cartagena, Colombia, in the foothills of the Montes de María. Benkos Biohó, an African prince from the Bijagó Islands, currently Guinea-Bissau, who was taken prisoner and sold into slavery in 1596 before fleeing Cartagena in 1599, established the colony in the early 17th century.

 

Growing through resistance and strategic planning, this community became a haven for runaway slaves. It was renowned for its military might and intelligence network, which enabled more escapes. Despite multiple Spanish military expeditions and attempts to subdue the community, the Palenqueros successfully resisted colonial forces for decades.

 

The settlement is now a small town. Palenque, which means "walled city," and the town is home to about 4,000 inhabitants. The new language of the Palenqueros was created by combining Spanish and the native Indian language with the Bantu language of Africa. However, the descendants of Benkos Biohó are proud of their native tongue.

 

The colorful ladies of San Basilio de Palenque, known as palenqueras, are Afro-Colombian women renowned for their vibrant traditional attire and role as vendors in Cartagena and other nearby cities. The origins of these colorful women may be traced back to the village of Palenque, where they wait for tourists to walk by while wearing bright red, yellow, blue, and green costumes embellished with fruit baskets.

 

Their presence in Cartagena dates back centuries, when they began traveling from their village to sell fruits and vegetables in the city’s markets, forming a vital economic link between the rural community and the urban center. Today, while many no longer focus solely on selling fruit, they continue to earn income by posing for tourists and photographers.

 

Their clothing, rich in African ancestry and representing tenacity, is a living homage to their ancestors' struggle for freedom, as well as a cultural statement. The Palenqueras are living representations of Afro-Colombian heritage, cultural pride, and unwavering resilience, not just tourist destinations and surviving descendants of enslaved people.

 

Palenque is the birthplace of Colombia's best boxers, musicians, and actresses. Antonio Cervantes, a two-time world middleweight boxing champion, and actor Evaristo Marquez, who co-starred with Marlon Brando in the film Burn, were born there. It also gave rise to the champeta musical style, which is popular in Colombia and throughout Latin America.

 

Today, San Basilio de Palenque remains the only surviving palenque in Colombia, preserving its unique cultural heritage, including the Palenquero language, a Spanish-based creole influenced by Kikongo and Portuguese, which fewer than half of the 3,500 residents still speak.

 

Additionally, the community upholds African-inspired customs like champeta music, drumming, and the lumbalú death rite. The settlement was named a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2005.

 

Residents cast ballots in a referendum on November 30, 2025, to decide whether to become an independent municipality. This decision indicates continuous attempts to assert cultural identity and sovereignty.

Waking up on a Tuesday morning in a world threatened by wars

 

Palestinians converge for a free meal in Rafah, Gaza. Photo credit: Fatima Shbair/AP

 

It can be extremely frightening, unbelievable, and emotionally upsetting to wake up on a Tuesday morning in a world where war is a threat, particularly when the news of violence comes as a surprise.

 

For some, it starts with a startling message, often accompanied by an urgent tone or a sobbing emoji, from a loved one, such as a friend or family member, declaring that war has broken out.

 

Disbelief is frequently the first response: "What and how could this be? This is not possible. However, it was and still is true. Social media recordings of explosions, missile strikes, or military action, such as a missile striking an airport only kilometers from one's hometown, often provide the initial confirmation.

 

The experience is bizarre for those watching from overseas; they feel physically safe but emotionally powerless, wonder if they should be there to assist, and worry about the safety of everyone they care about. People may suffer from anxiety, hyperventilation, or nightmares as a result of the psychological toll, particularly if they have personal connections to conflict areas.

 

Feelings of being ignored or unheard are exacerbated by a sense of loneliness brought on by the world's seeming indifference or underreporting of the conflict. Many, including children, mothers, fathers, and the elderly, continue to suffer throughout war periods, as many sleep in tents without any heating system.

 

As Ukraine enters its fourth winter under full-scale invasion, millions of civilians are enduring severe hardships due to relentless attacks, widespread power outages, and freezing temperatures, which are straining an already exhausted population.

 

Ongoing strikes on energy infrastructure have left entire communities uncertain about access to heat, electricity, and clean water, while fresh displacement continues along active frontlines.

 

The situation is particularly dire for vulnerable groups, including low-income residents in poorly constructed high-rise buildings; elderly and mobility-limited individuals living near the frontline, estimated at least half a million people within 20 kilometers of the front; and internally displaced people (IDPs) who remain in precarious conditions after years of displacement.

 

Access to medical care has become a critical concern, with over 70% of surveyed individuals identifying it as their most urgent need, and more than 60% of households lacking sufficient heating this winter. One in five families suffers from health issues linked to cold indoor temperatures, and over half of respondents cannot afford essential medicines, exacerbating a growing health crisis.

 

The psychological toll is equally severe, with over one-third of the population reporting mental health issues, and nearly 90% of families in frontline areas grappling with anxiety, stress, or sadness. Children are especially vulnerable, with 1.5 million at risk of developing post-traumatic stress syndrome and other mental health challenges.

 

Humanitarian agencies warn that this winter could be one of the most difficult yet, as intensified bombardment, worsening access constraints, and growing funding gaps threaten to leave hundreds of thousands without adequate support.

 

Despite efforts by organizations like CARE and the International Rescue Committee to deliver winterization aid such as thermal underwear, gas heaters, warm blankets, and medical supplies, the scale of need far exceeds available resources.

 

The combination of damaged infrastructure, limited access to utilities, and the psychological burden of nearly four years of war continues to place immense pressure on civilians, many of whom are living in damaged homes without protection from the harsh winter conditions.

 

Ultimately, awakening to a world in danger of war is a very personal experience influenced by location, proximity to conflict areas, and emotional sensitivity, but it always entails a tension between the dreadful truth of global instability and the routine rhythm of daily life.

 

Beauty and wealth may contribute to someone’s pride; however, one’s legacy and integrity are more important to me than anything. Everybody has a role to play; therefore, what legacy did you leave behind to be remembered when you passed away? Wars, tribal conflicts, and oppression can’t solve the problems. Love conquers all.

 

The hypothetical scenario of Trump seeking the Ark of the Covenant to invade Ethiopia

 

The Ark of the Covenant. Photo credit: azbyka.ru/

Donald Trump has become a greedy and politically combative president who wants everything he believes will “Make America Great Again." The US president wants Venezuela's oil reserves, as well as Greenland, the world's largest island, which is currently under the control of the Danish government. I don’t doubt that Trump would have attacked Ethiopia if the Ark of God were still there or if he knew its whereabouts.

 

As a counterpoint to reliance on military power, some people take pride in their chariots, while others take pride in their horses. However, since there is no evidence that the Ark of the Covenant was in America but rather in Ethiopia, Africa's pride is in its spiritual and heavenly might, aside from the abundant resources on the continent that industrialized nations continue to plunder and later call the Black Continent “a shithole.”

 

The Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament both describe the Ark of the Covenant as a holy chest built by the Israelites at God's direction. It was constructed in accordance with instructions from God that Moses received while the Israelites were camped at Mount Sinai, about a year after their flight from Egypt.

 

The chest was made of acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold both inside and out, and measured approximately 2.5 cubits long, 1.5 cubits wide, and 1.5 cubits high (about 111 cm × 67 cm × 67 cm or 44 in × 26 in × 26 in). Four gold rings were attached to its sides, through which gold-plated acacia wood poles were inserted for carrying the Ark, ensuring that no one would touch it directly.

 

The most important aspect of the Ark was its golden lid, sometimes called the mercy seat or propitiatory cover. It had two golden cherubim facing each other with their wings spread wide, signifying the presence of God. Biblical stories state that God communicated through the Ark by speaking from between the cherubim on the mercy seat.

 

The Ark of the Covenant housed the two stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, which were inscribed by God and delivered to Moses on Mount Sinai. In addition, later traditions state that it also contained a jar of manna and Aaron’s rod that had budded, though these items were not present when the Ark was moved into Solomon’s Temple.

 

God's bond with Israel was symbolized by the Ark, which stood for His holy presence among His people.  During the Israelites' wilderness adventure, it was carried by the Levites and was crucial to several significant occasions, including the fall of Jericho and the crossing of the Jordan River.

 

Ethiopian Orthodox history holds that Menelik I, the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, transported the Ark of the Covenant to Ethiopia. Since ancient times, it has been kept at the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Axum. The 14th-century book Kebra Nagast, which describes the fabled voyage of Menelik and the purported transfer of the Ark from Jerusalem to Ethiopia, is the source of this fundamental Ethiopian identity idea.

 

The Ark of the Covenant was eventually relocated to the Most Holy Place of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem around 1026 BCE, and only the high priest had access to it once a year on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, when he would sprinkle sacrificial blood on the mercy seat to atone for the sins of the populace. However, despite the Ark's vital function, its ultimate fate is still unknown.

 

"Why would Donald Trump target the Ark of the Covenant in Ethiopia? Donald Trump, in my opinion, would have attacked Ethiopia for the Ark of the Covenant for two reasons."

 

Since the Bible does not mention the modern nation of America by name, nor does it reference any of the 50 current U.S. states or the country as a political entity, but rather African countries, such as Egypt, Libya, Ethiopia, and the region of Nubia, which includes parts of modern Sudan, jealous Trump will be forced to invade Ethiopia like Venezuela to take possession of the Ark of the Covenant.

 

According to the Bible, Obed-Edom the Gittite had the Ark of the Covenant temporarily in his home for three months. During that time, it bestowed blessings upon him and his family. 2 Samuel 6:11 describes this incident. Trump would have taken control of the Ark for the United States to fulfill his political dreams, to “Make America Great Again.”

 

When the oxen stumbled, and the ark tipped, Uzzah reached out to steady it, but he was struck dead for his rude actions. Although Uzzah's goal was to prevent the ark from collapsing, his actions violated the divine decree that only the designated Levites could touch it. Donald Trump would still try despite this account.

How a faulty pressing iron revealed China’s early industrial struggles

 

The pressing iron breaks down again every time the African student takes it back to the Chinese shop for repairs.

China is widely recognized as a significant global force that has a significant military and economic influence on the world stage. However, many people don't know that the country couldn't produce a high-quality pressing iron that could last even a week decades ago.

 

"An African Student in China" is a 1963 memoir by Emmanuel John Hevi, a Ghanaian student who studied medicine in Beijing during the early 1960s under the influence of Kwame Nkrumah's alignment with China.

 

The book provides a firsthand account of his experiences and those of fellow African students in China during Mao's era, particularly during the period of the Great Leap Forward.

 

Hevi describes the initial idealism he and other African students held toward China as a beacon of anti-imperialist and anti-colonial progress, only to be disillusioned by the reality of life under the Communist regime.

 

The narrative details the challenges faced by African students, including poor living conditions, totalitarian surveillance, and racial discrimination. Hevi recounts how Chinese authorities courted and propagandized African students yet failed to win their loyalty, as many became aware of the regime's hypocrisy regarding racial equality.

 

He highlights incidents of racial prejudice, such as Chinese citizens expressing surprise at his skin color and touching his skin to verify his complexion, which he found humiliating. Hevi also notes that African students were often isolated, with some being forced to sit at the back of classrooms to avoid attention.

 

Nevertheless, nothing excites me more than his purchase of a pressing iron, despite all the stories and lessons about the prejudice African pupils encountered. Emmanuel John Hevi, a student, went to a Chinese store to purchase a pressing iron. 

I must clarify that this is a brand-new pressing iron, not a used one. The iron broke down after the first week, so he returned it to the shop. The student received the iron back after it was fixed, but it breaks down again every time.

 

This is a tale, in my opinion, of the Chinese discovering and researching what was truly disassembling the pressing iron until they were able to create the ideal pressing iron of today. As a result, throughout the entire time, the Chinese leadership was perfecting its blunders while the developed nations were undervaluing China.

 

Emmanuel John Hevi's account in his book about the pressing iron, which repeatedly malfunctioned and was fixed by China, might serve as a main story in international scientific journals about how China became an industry leader in electronics today.

 

Fidel Castro: The man America couldn't capture

 

Fidel Castro: The Cuban revolutionary leader

The United States started thinking about how to topple the revolutionary government almost as soon as the Cuban Revolution occurred on January 1, 1959. The American program's initial goal was to assist the Cuban opposition so that Castro's demise would seem to be the consequence of his own errors.

 

Eisenhower gave his approval to the plan to invade Cuba and topple its government on March 17, 1960. Four goals were included in the plan at the time: the formation of a cohesive Cuban opposition; the establishment of a radio station for gray broadcasting to Cuba on both short and long waves; the continuation of the construction of an intelligence and subversive network within Cuba; and the continuation of preparations for the formation of a paramilitary force outside of Cuba.

 

This phase essentially combined psychological warfare with guerrilla warfare. The CIA started training 300 insurgents right away, first in the Panama Canal Zone and the United States, and then in Guatemala. Using equipment that had been left on the island following its use for radio propaganda as part of Operation PBSUCCESS, the radio station on Isla Grande started up on May 17. The Cuban Democratic Revolutionary Front (FDR), which consists of 184 factions, was formed in June by the CIA.

 

The character of the plan started to change from guerrilla warfare to a naval landing in the fall of 1960 when the CIA determined that the guerrilla war might not reach the critical mass required for an uprising against Castro. The CIA anticipated that a large-scale revolt against Castro would start a few weeks after the invasion and be successful in a few more weeks.

 

On the morning of April 15, 1961, eight B-26 bombers with Cuban Air Force markings struck three airfields in an attempt to destroy the Cuban Air Force. However, the Cuban military command managed to disperse and camouflage the aircraft, leaving only damaged and simulated planes at the airfields. Around midnight on April 17, 1961, the "2506 Brigade" launched an amphibious assault in the Cochinos Bay area.

 

A local "people's militia" unit of roughly 100 men and a five-man patrol from the 339th Battalion attempted to stop the landing operation on April 17, but they were defeated and forced to leave. However, when the Cuban authorities learned of the landing at 03:15, they promptly evaluated the situation. The nation declared martial law and announced a nationwide mobilization.

 

Fidel Castro urged the people of the nation to oppose the invading invaders in a radio speech. Cuban Air Force aircraft attacked the landing spot multiple times as morning broke. Two landing barges and two transport ships were sunk. The Castro government's superior troops utilized planes, tanks, and howitzer artillery to stop the paratroopers' attack in the middle of the day on April 17.

 

The invasion planners decided to use five B-26 aircraft to strike Cuban fortifications on April 19. American pilots replaced the Cuban pilots who refused to fly on what they saw as a suicidal mission. The bombers were meant to be escorted by American jet fighters from the USS Essex, but the aircraft missed one another, and the Cuban Air Force shot down two B-26s carrying American aircrew.

 

The conflict concluded on April 19, 1961, when Brigade 2506 stopped resisting. Brigade 2506 has 1,202 captured and 114 dead overall. The captured Gusanos of Brigade 2506 were put on trial in April 1962, and in December of the same year, they were sent to the United States in return for food and medical supplies.

 

The operation's failure generated a great deal of controversy both domestically and abroad. Forty nations' representatives denounced the US assault against Cuba during a UN conference. In a protest letter to the United States, the Soviet Union denounced the armed invasion and demanded that action be taken to stop the assault against Cuba.

 

The promise of justice that doesn’t exist

 

Everyone deserves justice, which is fundamentally about fairness and equal treatment; however, many people are denied this fundamental right.

 

Hundreds of groups worldwide are actively involved in the struggle for justice, tackling structural injustices in different fields, including human rights, criminal justice reform, racial justice, and environmental protection.

 

However, because structural injustices and institutional defects make it difficult for justice to be realized, the promise of justice frequently seems unfulfilled, despite legal ideals like "equal justice under law" being embodied in national symbols and oaths. Millions of people lack genuine access to the legal system, particularly in civil matters today.

 

Groups like Amnesty International and the International Commission of Jurists work to expose injustices and pressure governments to act, particularly in cases of grave human rights violations such as genocide and crimes against humanity, yet the world is becoming more dangerous.

 

In the United States, organizations supported by Stand Together invest in initiatives aimed at ensuring equal justice under the law, promoting community policing, and reforming the criminal justice system through research and policy development, yet many people are denied justice.

 

As people push for greater involvement in decisions affecting their lives, peaceful demonstrators, journalists, human rights defenders, the underprivileged, defenseless individuals, and civil society groups are increasingly targeted.

 

Similar to the biblical quote "the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few," it appears that international law and adjudication are frequently insufficient to rectify widespread injustices, particularly when violence increases and legal channels become unavailable.

 

In reality, the lack of justice shows up as rifts in society, as Isaiah and other prophetic voices have bemoaned the lack of justice and the authorities' inability to enforce it, pointing out that peace can’t exist in the absence of justice.

 

Therefore, fighting for justice involves more than just combating systemic injustice; it also involves protecting the freedom to organize and speak out against it. This disparity highlights a significant gap between the promise and reality of justice, where rights exist in theory but are now only a pipe dream.

 

Even while the legal system appears to be effective, when enforcement is biased and affected by wealth, power, or convenience, it can turn into a performative gesture rather than a legitimate arbiter of justice. According to this viewpoint, the mere observation of injustice necessitates a standard of justice that surpasses the defective structures we design.

 

Similarly, Martin Luther King Jr. emphasized the inextricable link between justice and peace, stating, "There can be no justice without peace. And there can be no peace without justice.” However, despite such calls, many communities continue to experience systemic oppression and injustices faced by Native Americans, Blacks, and Hispanics.

 

Since the promise of justice is still unfulfilled, it will continue to elude the poor, other races, and the defenseless. However, regardless of the circumstances, Jesus’ love will be our comfort, hoping "We shall overcome someday." 

HBCU opportunities: Boost your career prospects now!

 

HBCU students and graduates with employers seeking diverse talent

Article by Will Moss

 

If you’re serious about elevating your career before closing out 2025, now is the perfect time to strengthen your presence on HBCUConnect.com. 

Every week, employers from Fortune 500 companies, federal agencies, nonprofits, tech firms, healthcare systems, and top brands search our member database looking for diverse, qualified talent, talent like you.

 

But here’s the key: they can only find you if your profile is complete and your resume is uploaded.

 

Why This Matters

 

Recruiters use HBCU CONNECT every day to identify potential hires for internships, early-career roles, and high-paying professional positions. A strong profile makes you stand out immediately by highlighting:

 

Your education

Work experience

Certifications

Skills

Career interests

Community involvement

A completed profile also unlocks our built-in online resume builder, making it easier than ever to present yourself professionally to employers looking to hire HBCU talent.

 

Two Ways to Get Started

You can take advantage of this in less than 10 minutes:

 

1. Upload Your Resume Directly

Visit the link below to upload your most recent resume and instantly become discoverable to employers:

 

https://hbcuconnect.com/resumes

 

2. Build or Update Your Profile Resume

If you prefer to create or update your resume using our profile tools, simply log in here:

 

https://hbcuconnect.com/cgi-bin/members.cgi?edit=1

 

Your Next Opportunity Could Be One Profile Update Away

Whether you’re actively job hunting or passively open to new opportunities, a polished profile ensures you don’t miss out when employers view candidates on our platform.

 

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About HBCU Connect

 

HBCU CONNECT is the largest online network for students and alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), founded in 1999 by Hampton University graduate William Roger Moss III and entrepreneur E. Shawn Starks as the first African American-targeted social network, initially launched as "hbcu-central.com."

The platform serves as a hub for networking, professional development, mentoring, job and internship opportunities, scholarships, and educational resources tailored specifically for the HBCU community.

 

It connects HBCU students and graduates with employers seeking diverse talent while also supporting community engagement and career advancement.

 

The organization is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, and operates under the official website www.hbcuconnect.com, with a mission driven by a commitment to the future of HBCUs and their alumni.

 

Elevate your healthy plates: Salmon with red lentil and chicken - mushroom noodles

 

Healthy recipes of chicken noodles with porcini mushrooms and Norwegian salmon with red lentil cutlets

Healthy recipes are essential for long-term health and wellness since they promote a balanced diet and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

 

Cooking at home using healthy recipes gives users control over their ingredients, which reduces the intake of unhealthy fats, added sugars, and excess sodium compared to eating at a restaurant or consuming processed foods.

 

Research shows that people who cook frequently at home consume fewer calories, less sugar, and fewer carbohydrates, even if they are not actively trying to lose weight. A lower risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes is linked to this practice.

 

Furthermore, cooking at home promotes the consumption of more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutrient-dense foods, all of which are essential for sustaining energy levels, bolstering the immune system, and promoting gut health.

 

Making meals at home also aids in recalibrating taste preferences, gradually increasing the satisfaction of naturally flavorful, less salty, or sugary foods. Additionally, learning to cook at a young age might result in improved nutritional results as an adult, such as lower intake of fast food and healthier eating habits.

 

A meal's nutritional worth can be greatly increased without compromising flavor by making even small recipe changes, including utilizing whole grains and low-fat dairy or swapping products to minimize fat and sugar.

 

All things considered, nutritious recipes enable people to adopt long-lasting, beneficial dietary adjustments that improve their physical and mental health. Below are two different health food recipes for physical and mental well-being.

Chicken noodles with porcini mushrooms

Chicken Noodles with porcini mushrooms is a hearty, savory dish that combines tender chicken, rich porcini mushrooms, and noodles in a deeply flavorful sauce. Porcini mushrooms, known for their earthy, umami-rich flavor, elevate the dish with a gourmet touch, often enhanced by garlic, herbs, and a creamy or soy-based sauce.

 

It's a wholesome meal that combines protein from the chicken and nutrition from the mushrooms, making it both delicious and satisfying. While this soup may not be the quickest to prepare, the results are well worth the effort. The key to this dish lies in the homemade noodles.

 

Ingredients

Boneless chicken (breast or thigh), sliced thin

Dried or fresh porcini mushrooms

Egg noodles or wheat noodles

Garlic, ginger, green onions

Soy sauce, oyster sauce, or hoisin sauce

Sesame oil, vegetable oil

Optional: miso paste, chili oil, or cream for depth

Step-by-step instructions

Soak dried porcini mushrooms in warm water for 15–20 minutes; drain and slice (reserve soaking liquid for sauce).

Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain, rinse with cold water, toss with a little oil, and set aside.

Sauté minced garlic and ginger in oil until fragrant, then add chicken and cook until browned; remove and set aside.

In the same pan, sauté mushrooms (including rehydrated porcini) until tender and golden.

Return chicken to the pan, add reserved mushroom soaking liquid (strained), and stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sesame oil.

Add cooked noodles and toss everything together over medium heat until well coated and heated through.

Finish with chopped green onions, a drizzle of sesame oil, and optional chili crisp for heat.

 

Norwegian salmon with red lentil cutlets

 

Norwegian salmon with red lentil cutlets is a modern, nutritious dish that combines the rich, firm texture of Norwegian salmon with the earthy, protein-packed qualities of red lentil cutlets, creating a balanced meal that highlights both ingredients. This dish reflects Norway’s culinary tradition of emphasizing high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood paired with wholesome plant-based components.

 

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

Temperature: 375°F (190°C) for baking lentil cutlets; medium-high heat for pan-searing salmon

Ingredients:

 

Norwegian salmon fillets (skin-on): 4 (6 oz each) ([170 g each])

Red lentils: 1 cup ([240 mL])

Onion, finely chopped: 1 medium (150 g)

Garlic, minced: 3 cloves ([15 g])

Fresh parsley, chopped: 1/4 cup ([15 g])

Cumin, ground: 1 tsp ([5 g])

Coriander, ground: 1 tsp ([5 g])

Chili powder: 1/2 tsp (2.5 g)

Lemon juice: 2 tbsp ([30 mL])

Olive oil: 3 tbsp ([45 mL])

Salt: 1 tsp ([5 g]), plus more to taste

Black pepper: 1/2 tsp (2.5 g)

Flour (for binding): 2 tbsp ([25 g])

Butter (for pan-searing): 2 tbsp ([30 g])

Lemon zest (optional): 1 tsp ([5 g])

Equipment needed:

 

Large saucepan (for lentils)

Baking sheet

Mixing bowls

Skillet (non-stick or cast iron)

Spatula

Measuring cups and spoons

Paper towels

 

How to prepare it

 

Preheat the oven to 190°C, or 375°F. Add two cups (480 mL) of water, a teaspoon of salt, and red lentils to a pot. After bringing to a boil, lower the heat and simmer until the lentils are soft and the majority of the water has been absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes. After draining any extra liquid, allow it to cool a little.

 

In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still slightly textured. Stir in chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, chili powder, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and flour. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.

 

Shape the mixture into 4 cutlets, about 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm to the touch.

 

While lentil cutlets bake, pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add salmon skin-side down and press gently with a spatula for 15 seconds to prevent curling. Cook for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for 1–2 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C) for medium-rare.

 

Remove lentil cutlets from oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve salmon on top of or alongside the warm cutlets. Drizzle with additional olive oil or lemon zest if desired. Ensure salmon reaches an internal temperature of at least 120°F (49°C) for safe consumption. Use separate cutting boards for raw fish and vegetables to prevent cross-contamination.

 

Use green or brown lentils instead of red if preferred, though red cook faster and break down more. Substitute chickpea flour for regular flour for a gluten-free option. Replace butter with olive oil for a vegan version.

 

Store leftover cooked lentil cutlets and salmon separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain texture. Patting the salmon dry before cooking ensures a crisp skin. Letting the lentil mixture rest for 10 minutes after mixing helps it bind better.

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the lentil mixture or a splash of white wine to the salmon pan after flipping.

What does Trump truly want in Venezuela?

 

The US president, Donald Trump

The experience of studying the US government has been unique for me as an African writer. My perspective differs greatly from the justifications offered by the US government for every war against nations it views as enemies. What does Trump really want in Venezuela, which is why Nicolás Maduro was attacked and taken prisoner?

 

The US president claims that because Maduro is a drug dealer, the Venezuelan leader poses a threat to the US. The US government's first aim is to combat drugs and dismantle the network. Experts, however, think that the discussion of combating narcotics is a smoke screen. So, is the main goal to control Venezuela's oil reserves?

 

Even if I don't know much about the US government, I can still talk about American presidents. They don't waste time attacking a government since they are fully aware that they will not benefit from that nation. Trump recently attacked terrorists in Nigeria who were murdering Christians. Since that nation possesses oil, he took that action.

 

Trump won't waste time bombing terrorists in Nigeria if oranges are that nation's main resource. I have the same thought about Venezuela. Trump wants the world and Maduro's adversaries to think he is on their side. That might not be the reason for his attack, though.

 

During his 2024 presidential campaign, Donald Trump made numerous claims that he could put a stop to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine within a day of taking office; however, he failed. So I don’t understand why Trump should start a new conflict with Venezuela when the Israeli-Palestinian problem is still raging on.

 

As previously stated, I'm not sure if the attack on Venezuela is related to drugs, but I can say that Trump feels he has failed in many areas and that he urgently has to impress the American citizens.

 

Why is the Netherlands perfect for cheesemaking?

 

Gouda is one of the most renowned cheeses produced in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is undoubtedly the world's leading cheese-making nation. The taste of Dutch cheese is often cited as a key reason why visitors fall in love with the Netherlands. The country is one of the world's top exporters of cheese, butter, and powdered milk, despite its small size, a testament confirming its cheese-making prowess and its adoption of Dutch cheese-making methods.

 

Holland’s rich historical roots, economic significance, and cultural influence have made cheese production a worldwide relevant industry. The country's distinct topography, rich, low-lying grasslands perfect for dairy farming, has made it possible to produce high-quality cheese for centuries, making it a significant export force and a source of pride for the country.

 

Over the past century, dairy farming in the Netherlands has undergone constant modernization. This technique has led to the development of advanced technology that ensures the production of high-quality cheese with minimal human involvement.

 

The most popular Dutch cheeses are Gouda and Edam. The amount of these sorts being exported is breaking global records. The nation, which produces around 900 million kg of cheese a year and has a trade surplus worth more than €8 billion, is the biggest exporter of cheese in the world. Cheese makes up a considerable amount of its international trade.

 

Traditions of making cheese have been around for decades. The need to preserve milk during the pre-refrigeration era drove early production, which developed into a sophisticated industry with stringent quality requirements and protected designations.

 

The nation's cheese culture permeates every aspect of daily life, including breakfasts, lunches, and social gatherings. It is also commemorated in historic markets, museums, and festivals that draw tourists from all over the world and have sparked innovation in sustainable dairy farming.

 

The Netherlands' high per capita consumption of cheese, which averages 15 kg per person yearly, and its domination in internet searches for cheese-related information, which highlights its cultural and economic significance, further solidify the country's status as a global leader in the cheese industry.

 

Dairy production in the Netherlands has been continuously modernized. As a result of this procedure, cutting-edge technologies that guarantee the production of premium cheese with little human intervention have been developed, and the export volume of these kinds is setting records all over the world.

 

Gouda's Cheese Weighing House is among the most exquisite in the Netherlands. It is located here on the Market Square and was constructed in 1668 by renowned architect Pieter Post, whose works include the royal palace at The Hague. After the repair, which was funded by the cheese manufacturer Uniekaas, the weighing house has reopened.

 

High-quality Dutch cheese with an enticing flavor can be found in Gouda, Edam, Leidse kaas, Massdammer, Geitenkaas, Schapenkaas, Boerenkaas, Graaskaas, Beemsterkaas, Delfts Blauw, and Rookkaas.

 

The ghost tours of the Quebec tourism industry

 

The ghost tours of Quebec guides: Photo credit: ghosttoursofquebec.com

The tourism industry is quite large and comprises several interrelated sectors that collaborate to facilitate travel and enhance visitor experiences. Throughout the summer and winter, people are eager to visit a variety of interesting locations. There is, however, one unique tourism industry that many people are frequently unaware of. That's tourism that involves ghost sightseeing. The topic of today's article is Canada's "Ghost Tours of Quebec."

 

Ghost stories contribute to the universe's sense of mystery by appealing to deeply rooted human psychological tendencies and cultural myths. People view seemingly random events, such as creaking floors or shadows, as intentional or extraterrestrial due to the Hyperactive Agency Detection Device (HADD), a natural tendency of the human brain to hunt for patterns and ascribe agency to ambiguous stimuli.

 

This survival instinct causes people to see spirits or hidden meanings behind unexplained happenings, which heightens the sense of mystery. These tales also provide a means of addressing existential concerns, especially those related to death and the unknown. People make stories that provide solace or structure in the face of mortality by imagining that spirits can return, which helps to lessen the discomfort associated with the concept of death.

 

Ghosts frequently represent unresolved problems, such as incorrect funeral customs or unmet ambitions, which reflect moral teachings and cultural norms and further entwine mystery into the human experience. Furthermore, ghost stories have a strong connection to location and history. Haunted places, such as deserted hospitals, castles, or battlegrounds, have complex histories that inspire creativity and transform actual places into imaginative worlds where the past and present are blurred.

 

The tales themselves change between countries, reflecting distinctive beliefs: restless souls in Christian medieval traditions, protective ancestors in African folklore, or vengeful spirits in Japan. These differences emphasize how the world is viewed differently based on cultural context, which contributes to its mysterious quality.

 

Even though the Bible teaches that believers should not fear those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul, emphasizing that one should fear God, who has power over both soul and body in hell, I became particularly interested in ghost stories after watching hundreds of documentaries about dead people whose souls continue to roam the earth, some of them peacefully and others violently.

 

The deceased are said to be inactive and unaware, with no further rewards, because their memories are lost. The Bible suggests that the dead are unconscious and unable to harm the living by comparing death to slumber. Therefore, rather than being afraid of the living or the dead, the emphasis is on fearing God. That is accurate, but the frequent reports of ghost attacks give rise to serious concerns.

 

Even now, this mystery is still magnified by digital media and entertainment. These days, ghost stories are shared through podcasts, virtual reality tours, and social media, allowing individuals to explore the paranormal from the comfort of their homes while maintaining the thrill of the unknown. While viewing "Creepy Canada," I learned about several topics, such as "Ghost Tours of Quebec" and individuals like tour guide Laurie Thatcher.

 

Since disputes over the existence of ghosts frequently rely on anecdotal evidence and subjective experiences, which are intrinsically unreliable for establishing objective reality, it is seen to be beneficial to refrain from doing so. Personal reports of ghost sightings are often misinterpreted due to cognitive biases, sensory limitations, and psychological factors like stress or persuasion.

 

However, if you don’t believe and still want to explore, then enter the office of “Ghost Tours of Quebec” and book a tour. “While you’re here, you might like to beware of the ghost that lives inside. It’s been known to throw our top hats at our employees and momentarily break our printer.” In fact, in September 2020, paranormal activity investigators even captured his voice on one of their devices capable of recording voices from the afterlife.

 

If you're one of those people who would rather see things before believing them, join the "Ghost Tours of Quebec" excursion group to find out for yourself.