18-Year-Old Ghanaian Shot Dead In Canada

An 18-year-old Ghanaian, identified by his family as Prince Abdul Malik, has been shot dead in Toronto, Canada.

The shooting occurred on Saturday, November 7, 2026, near the intersection of Rathburn Road and The East Mall in Etobicoke, west of Toronto.

Toronto police have officially identified the victim as Malik Abass, 18, of Mississauga, Ontario.

According to the Toronto Police Service, officers responded to reports of gunfire at about 4:27 p.m. and found the teenager suffering from gunshot wounds.

Emergency services administered first aid at the scene before paramedics rushed him to hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Toronto police confirmed Malik’s death as the city’s 33rd homicide of 2026.

The case has now been classified as a homicide and taken over by the Toronto Police Service’s Homicide and Missing Persons Unit.

Inspector Jeff Allington, who spoke to reporters at the scene on Saturday, said the attackers fled before officers arrived.

‘The only description I have in terms of suspects is that they are two male suspects wearing dark clothing,’ he said.

As of Monday, November 9, 2026, police have not disclosed a possible motive for the shooting and have not announced any arrests.

Detectives are still working to establish the events leading to the shooting and what prompted the attack.

Police have appealed to residents and drivers in the area to come forward with any security camera or dashcam footage that could help identify the suspects.

Malik’s killing comes just nine days after another young Ghanaian, 15-year-old Javits Badu Nkansah Frimpong, was fatally shot in the Bronx, New York, while on his way to school.

The back-to-back deaths of the two Ghanaian teenagers have deepened grief and concern among Ghanaians at home and abroad.

In 2025, 26-year-old Belinda Sarkodie was shot dead in downtown Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

The incident occurred on Friday, July 11, 2025, at about 5:25 p.m. near Jackson Square shopping mall at the intersection of King Street East and James Street North, while she was waiting at a bus stop.

According to the Hamilton Police Service, Sarkodie was an innocent bystander who was caught in crossfire when a 17-year-old suspect, identified as Mackale Lavoie, allegedly opened fire on a group of three individuals.

The suspect fled the scene northbound on James Street and was the subject of a police manhunt.

Lavoie was charged with second-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder.

Progress on EIB’s GSI study completion expected by end of 2026, says Letymbiotis

Progress on the completion of the European Investment Bank (EIB) study on the Cyprus-Greece electricity interconnector project is expected by the end of the year, according to Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis.

Speaking at a press briefing and asked about the European Investment Bank’s study concerning the electricity interconnector between Cyprus and Greece, the Spokesperson said that Cyprus and Greece had jointly approached the EIB precisely to have this study carried out. ‘So it was also our aim, and our view, that this study should go ahead,’ he said. He noted that the EIB had received the data from the implementing body.

‘In any case, however, I believe that anyone familiar with how feasibility studies are drawn up and how they are produced – given their technical complexity and geopolitical nature – and even more so in the case of an EU project of common interest that has received the highest level of funding ever granted to a project of its kind, the study will be assessed,’ he said. He noted that, according to the information they had received, progress would be made towards the completion of the study by the end of the year.

He also noted that the Government’s approach from the outset had been to clarify all aspects and all parameters of ‘a project of great importance to the country and the region, so that it can be completed on time and in the best possible way’.

The results of the study will always be assessed in coordination with the Greek Government and the implementing body, he said.

Odefille Takes Executive Fashion To HnM Runway

Leading Accra-based fashion house, Odefille, showcased its contemporary approach to fashion at the 2026 edition of the Heels and Muscles (HnM) Fashion Show, held at the Exhibition Hall of the National Theatre in Accra on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

Organised by Recess Model Agency, this year’s edition was held under the theme ‘Rebirth’ and brought together ten designers for an impressive display of male and female fashion.

The designers featured were Jolynlux Fashion, Menobare, Kachi Built to Fit, Odefille, Truly Black, Klenam Chi’s Place, Cozy Couture, Juyaak, Bushai Weave and Chesa Fashion House.

Odefille was among the fashion brands featured during the presentations, using the platform to display its designs and engage with a wider audience.

The brand’s runway presentation highlighted its interpretation of modern dressing, combining style, sophistication and individual expression while drawing on its established identity in executive fashion.

Known for its tailored womenswear and menswear, Odefille has developed its brand identity around contemporary design, refinement and versatility. Its previous collections have explored different creative influences, including cultural references and textile artistry, while maintaining an emphasis on wearability and individual expression.

Its participation at HnM 2026 provided another opportunity to extend this design approach to a broader audience and demonstrate the brand’s evolving creative direction.

Speaking on the brand’s approach, the fashion house said it remained committed to exploring new expressions of style while creating clothing that reflects confidence and individuality.

For Odefille, the showcase offered another opportunity to strengthen its visibility within the fashion industry, present its creative work to new audiences and connect with potential customers and other stakeholders.

Women accounted for 37.8% of scientists and engineers in Cyprus in 2025

Women accounted for 37.8% of scientists and engineers in Cyprus in 2025, with their number reaching 19.6 thousand, according to data published by Eurostat on Tuesday.

At EU level, a total of 20.2 million scientists and engineers were employed in the same year, of whom 8.2 million, or 41%, were women.

Among EU regions classified at NUTS 1 level, Île-de-France, the French capital region, recorded the highest number of female scientists and engineers, at 336,300. Women accounted for 38% of all scientists and engineers in the region.

It was followed by Nordrhein-Westfalen in Germany, with 281,400 women and a share of 35%, Este in Spain, with 279,400 and 46%, West-Nederland in the Netherlands, with 271,600 and 40%, Bayern in Germany, with 271,100 and 35%, and Continente in Portugal, with 265,100 and 46%.

Lawyer William Kusi Dies; Akosua Serwaa Devastated

Lawyer William Kusi, who represented Akosua Serwaa in the high-profile legal dispute involving the late highlife musician Daddy Lumba, has died.

Lawyer Kusi passed away on the morning of Saturday, November 7, 2026, leaving his client, Akosua Serwaa, and her family deeply saddened.

In a statement issued on Sunday, November 8, Akosua Serwaa described his death as a devastating shock, paying tribute to the legal practitioner for his support and commitment to her and her family.

She said Lawyer Kusi was more than a lawyer, describing him as a trusted adviser, dependable source of encouragement and dear friend who stood by her during some of the most difficult periods of her life.

The family said they had come to regard him not only as an exceptional legal practitioner but also as a man of wisdom, integrity and compassion.

They further praised his professional commitment, sound legal judgement and dedication to truth and justice, which they said earned him the confidence and admiration of those who worked with him.

Lawyer Kusi represented Akosua Serwaa in the widely publicised legal dispute concerning the marital status of the late Daddy Lumba wives.

PRESS RELEASE – UNIVERSITY OF CYPRUS

PS-U-GO concludes international conference ‘Youth as Agents of Hope’ in Larnaka, putting young people at the centre of the future of cities

Two days of dialogue on Urban Living Labs and community-engaged learning, supported by Larnaka2030, European Capital of Culture 2030

How can youth participation move beyond consultation and have a meaningful impact on urban planning? This question was at the heart of the international conference ‘Youth as Agents of Hope: Urban Living Labs and Community-Engaged Learning’, held at Allilodidaskalio in Larnaka on 29-30 October 2026.

The conference was co-organised by the European Erasmus+ project PS-U-GO (Education in Living Labs: Participatory Skills for Sustainable Urban Governance) and the AESOP Thematic Group on Public Spaces and Urban Cultures (TG PSUC) of the Association of European Schools of Planning. It was hosted by the Society and Urban Form (SURF) Lab of the Department of Architecture at the University of Cyprus, with the support of Larnaka2030, European Capital of Culture 2030.

Researchers, educators, practitioners, young people and artists from Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Germany, Croatia and other European countries exchanged experiences and approaches concerning the role of Urban Living Labs (ULLs) in experiential learning, community collaboration and the creation of more inclusive urban spaces.

The first day opened with a keynote lecture by Kelly Diapouli, Artistic Director of Larnaka2030, entitled ‘Community-based Art Practices’, highlighting the relationship between artistic practice, participation and the engagement of local communities. On the second day, Tihomir Viderman (BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg, representative of the AESOP Thematic Group PSUC) delivered a keynote lecture entitled ‘Watch Out for Affects: Youth Participation in Places of Concern’, focusing on the social and emotional dimensions of young people’s relationships with urban space.

Four roundtable discussions explored youth participation in public space, pedagogical frameworks for experiential learning, the connection between education and the city, and the practices that make Urban Living Labs effective. Contributions presented research and experiences from Thessaloniki, Athens, Parma, Milan, Rome, Cottbus, Zadar, Zagreb, Larnaka and elsewhere in Cyprus.

Key Takeaways and Reflections

Four interconnected reflections emerged from the themes addressed in the presentations and discussions:

Meaningful participation requires a genuine role in decision-making. Inviting young people to participate in an activity is not enough unless they are given opportunities to express their views, contribute to shaping decisions and remain involved over time.The city can serve as a learning environment. Engagement with real neighbourhoods, residents and urban planning challenges enables students to connect academic knowledge with social responsibility.Inclusion requires attention to diverse experiences. Age, gender, accessibility and feelings of safety or belonging influence who can use, participate in and help shape public space.Continuity and relationships of trust matter. Urban Living Labs gain greater educational and social value when collaboration extends beyond a single activity or intervention.University of Cyprus, with Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Social Fringe: interesting untold stories (SF:ius), Palermo Urban Solutions Hub (PUSH) and Urban Foxes as partners, and the AESOP Thematic Group PSUC as an associate partner. The project develops Urban Living Labs as educational spaces where students, residents, planners and policymakers collaborate on real urban challenges.

Efya and Husband Unveil Baby Girl

Singer, Efya Nokturnal, and her Nigerian husband, Tomi Thomas, have dedicated their daughter to God and unveiled her full name at a church ceremony in Accra.

The naming, christening, and thanksgiving service took place at Cedar Church (Assemblies of God) on Sunday, November 8, 2026, with family and loved ones in attendance.

The couple named their daughter Zoe-Blair Adara Nana Efya Ankyaa Oluwateniyo Thomas, a name reflecting their Ghanaian and Yoruba heritage.

The church’s Head Pastor, Reverend Stephen Wengam, led prayers for the newborn, asking God to guide her to become a destiny child and a shining star who would lead her generation. He also prayed for blessings, peace and longevity for the couple.

The ceremony marked the end of the couple’s three-day #TJLuV26 wedding celebrations, which began with their traditional marriage on Friday, November 6, followed by a white wedding at the Underbridge Annex on Saturday, November 7.

The celebrations attracted several entertainment personalities and dignitaries from Ghana and Nigeria. Photos and videos from the dedication have since drawn congratulatory messages from fans and industry colleagues.

Cypriot films ‘Hold Onto Me’ and ‘Free Eliza’ achieve international recognition

Two Cypriot films, ‘Hold Onto Me’ by Myrsini Aristidou and ‘Free Eliza (Notes on an Anatomical Imperfection)’ by Alexandra Matthaiou, have earned international recognition, securing places on the shortlists for the 2027 European Film Awards, while also advancing in the process towards Oscar consideration, according to an announcement by the Deputy Ministry of Culture.

‘Hold Onto Me’ has been nominated for the European Young Audience Award 2027 and included in the shortlist for the European Film Awards, with the final nominations due to be announced on November 14 during the Thessaloniki Film Festival.

The film has also been selected as Cyprus’ official submission in the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards. The winner of the Young Audience Award will be announced on January 16, 2027, at the 39th European Film Awards ceremony in Athens.

Meanwhile, ‘Free Eliza’, which is shortlisted for the European Film Awards in the short film category, won the Grand Jury Prize for Live Action Short at AFI FEST 2026. The award makes it eligible for consideration in the 100th Academy Awards.

The Deputy Ministry of Culture congratulated the filmmakers, noting that the films’ international achievements reflect the growth, outward-looking character and artistic maturity of Cyprus’ film industry.

Mahama Announces GHS250m For Blekusu Coastal Protection

President John Dramani Mahama has announced an additional allocation of GHS250 million in the 2027 Budget for the continuation and completion of the Blekusu Phase Two Coastal Protection Project in the Volta Region.

He said the allocation was intended to ensure the uninterrupted execution of the project, which was critical to protecting coastal communities from the devastating effects of sea erosion.

President Mahama made the announcement at the 64th Hogbetsotso Grand Durbar, where he addressed traditional authorities and the people of Anlo on the government’s development priorities and ongoing interventions in the area.

He acknowledged concerns raised by the Awoamefia of Anlo, Togbui Sri III, about the destruction of homes, livelihoods and community infrastructure resulting from coastal erosion, describing the situation as a serious threat to the security and well-being of affected households.

The President also disclosed that GHS685 million had been allocated to commence coastal protection interventions under the West African Coastal Areas Resilience Investment Project (WACA), which would cover engineering works, including breakwaters, groynes and revetments, as well as dune stabilisation, vegetation planting and beach replenishment.

He said the project would further incorporate wetlands restoration, lagoon and watershed rehabilitation, alongside livelihood support for communities within the targeted areas, particularly women, young people and persons with disabilities.

On the Blekusu project, President Mahama said he was encouraged by the progress of work since its commencement, and assured the people that the additional funding would facilitate its continuation and completion.

He also called on traditional leaders and residents to support efforts to protect mangroves and coastal vegetation, warning that their indiscriminate destruction weakened shorelines and increased the vulnerability of coastal settlements to erosion.

President Mahama said the government’s interventions were aimed not only at protecting physical infrastructure but also at safeguarding the livelihoods, schools, cultural heritage and economic activities of coastal communities.

Cyprus President arrives in Antalya ahead of COP31 Summit

President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides and the Cypriot delegation arrived in Antalya, Turkey, shortly before 21:00 local time (20:00 Cyprus time), ahead of the Leaders’ Summit of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31).

The President is accompanied by Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, the President’s Special Envoy for the Cyprus issue for Asia and Africa, Nikos Tornaritis, as well as government officials.

EU Ambassador to Trkiye Aivo Orav and an ambassador representing the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs were present to welcome the President at Antalya International Airport.

The President and the delegation subsequently travelled to their hotel in a motorcade, with the vehicles displaying the words ‘Cyprus Delegation’. They were welcomed there by Greece’s Ambassador to Ankara, Theodoros Bizakis.