Somalia welcomes its first bowling alley as the middle class and diaspora returnees grow
In Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, the opening of the Feynuus Bowling Center marks a symbolic shift for a city long defined by civil war and al-Shabab attacks. Improved security, increased government control, and growing private investment have helped daily life re-emerge in the city — drawing in crowds of locals and expatriates. The bowling alley reflects rising demand for recreational spaces and economic opportunity. While Mogadishu remains vulnerable to militant attacks, residents say the ability the bowling alley represents to gather for shared leisure time and activities signals recovery.
Argentina’s Senate backs President Milei’s contentious labor overhaul after protests
Argentina’s Senate approved President Javier Milei’s sweeping labor reform in principle after hours of debate, negotiation, and clashes between police and union-backed protesters outside Congress. The bill, a key part of Milei’s economic agenda, aims to ease firing rules, curb strike powers, and promote formal employment. Unions and Peronist leaders oppose the changes, saying they weaken long-standing worker protections. The measure now moves to an article-by-article vote and then to the lower house for further debate.
Zelenskiy calls for more US pressure on Russia to end war by summer
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the United States must increase pressure on Russia if it wants the war to end by summer. He added that it is unclear whether Moscow will attend the proposed U.S.-brokered peace talks in Miami. Zelenskiy denied reports that Ukraine would soon announce elections or a referendum on a peace deal, saying votes cannot be held without security guarantees and a ceasefire and are banned under martial law.
Judge orders U.S. to facilitate return of college student who was deported in error
A U.S. federal judge has ordered the Trump Administration to facilitate the return of Honduran college student and Texas resident Any Lucia López Belloza, who was deported in violation of a court order. The 19-year-old Babson College student was detained at Boston’s Logan Airport and deported to Honduras despite a court ruling preventing her removal. U.S. District Judge Richard Stearns gave the government two weeks to correct the mistake and allow her return. Lopez Belloza’s case is currently pending.
Can’t buy love? Kenya bans bouquets made of cash
Kenya’s Central Bank has banned the creation of money bouquets — floral arrangements made with folded banknotes — citing concerns over currency defacement due to the high cost of replacing the damaged banknotes. These bouquets became popular in Kenya and across East Africa and Asia, blending flowers with cash to create a symbol of love and wealth. The ban has disrupted a profitable business for flower sellers, many of whom used the practice to earn higher profits, particularly through social media. Sellers are now adapting by using gift boxes or foreign currency, such as U.S. dollar bills, to continue their floral arrangements.
