Economy
Over 100 Lives Lost in Tragic Flooding Catastrophe in the Congo
The devastating aftermath of relentless overnight downpours in South Kivu province, located in eastern Congo, has led to the tragic loss of over a hundred lives due to severe flooding and landslides.
This heart-wrenching news was revealed by a local official on Friday, unveiling the gravity of the situation. Thomas Bakenge, a regional government representative, bore witness to the recovery efforts in the afflicted region of Kalehe, describing the extent of the destruction as unfathomable. Entire houses were mercilessly swept away, leaving behind a landscape of desolation. However, lifeless bodies continue to be retrieved from the shores of the neighboring Lake Kivu, serving as a grim reminder of the catastrophe.
As torrential rains engulfed the area, two rivers burst their banks, triggering a series of devastating landslides that ravaged numerous homes. Delphin Birimbi, a community leader, reported the widespread destruction caused by these natural calamities. Amidst the chaos, residents of the village of Nyamukubi, knee-deep in mud, estimated that more than three-quarters of their homes had been mercilessly carried away by the relentless floods. The deluge spared no mercy, swallowing up not just residences, but also educational institutions and a vital healthcare center.
Thomas Bakenge, the aforementioned official, urgently called upon the international community for immediate assistance, painting a bleak picture of the aftermath. The sheer devastation left nothing in its wake, and the desperate plea for help echoed through the desolated landscape. Rescue teams worked tirelessly, combing through the debris in a race against time, hoping to uncover survivors buried beneath the rubble of what were once cherished homes.
In an official statement released on Friday, the provincial government of South Kivu expressed its heartfelt condolences to the affected families and pledged to dispatch a delegation to the disaster-stricken area. This gesture aimed to provide solace and support during this time of immense grief and suffering.
The heavy rains that have plagued East Africa have brought about untold misery to thousands of individuals. Uganda and Kenya, neighboring countries, have also endured the brunt of the relentless downpours, exacerbating the region’s woes. Meanwhile, in nearby Rwanda, which shares a border with Congo, the tragic consequences of flooding and landslides have resulted in the loss of 129 precious lives earlier this week, compounding the widespread devastation and sorrow.
Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi underscored the pivotal role of controlling commodity prices, emphasizing its special importance in the upcoming general election as a key aspect of the Awami League’s manifesto. While addressing concerns about global challenges impacting price control, the minister pointed out the government’s successful efforts to maintain reasonable prices, acknowledging the limitations imposed by the global context.
Speaking at an event organized by the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection and Debate for Democracy at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC), Tipu Munshi provided insights into the government’s commitment to ensuring affordable daily necessities for low-income individuals. He highlighted ongoing programs aligned with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s directives, aimed at providing essential items at lower prices to mitigate the hardships faced by the economically vulnerable.
The minister acknowledged the abnormal increase in product prices globally due to factors such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. Tipu Munshi stressed the significance of a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors in effectively managing and controlling commodity prices, especially in the face of global uncertainties.
Concluding his remarks, Tipu Munshi emphasized the collective strength of consumers, stating that neither the government nor any syndicate holds ultimate power; rather, the united force of the common people is the most influential. He called on consumers to remain vigilant, asserting that no force can endure if the public remains united.
In a letter signed by FBCCI president Mahbubul Alam, the trade body emphasized that taxpayers faced challenges due to the recent implementation of the new Income Tax Act-2023. The complexities introduced by the new tax regulations, coupled with delayed releases of income tax circulars, have created difficulties for individuals and businesses in preparing their tax returns within the stipulated timeframe.
The FBCCI’s letter further highlighted that various trade bodies have approached them, expressing concerns about the limited time provided for taxpayers to comply. Additionally, the ongoing political situation and the imminent general election have contributed to the constraints faced by taxpayers in meeting the November 30 deadline.
Under the provisions of the new Income Tax Act, there is a mandatory requirement for taxpayers to submit their income tax returns within the designated income tax day. The FBCCI, in light of Section 334 of the Income Tax Act-2023, has formally requested the NBR to extend the deadline for the submission of income tax returns until December 31, 2023.
The FBCCI’s appeal underscores the need for flexibility in recognizing the unique challenges posed by the current circumstances and aims to provide relief to taxpayers who require additional time to comply with the new tax regulations.
The third-quarter performance of Singapore’s economy exceeded expectations, registering a robust 1.1 percent expansion. This growth was propelled by the construction industry and the services sector, particularly tourism. The data from the trade ministry surpassed the anticipated 0.8 percent and marked a significant improvement from the preceding three months.
In response to the positive momentum, officials have revised the full-year forecast for 2023. They now anticipate the economy to grow by 1.0 percent, adjusting from the earlier estimated range of 0.5-1.5 percent. The decision is influenced by improved performance in the US economy since the previous forecast in August. However, officials cautioned that inflation-fighting interest rate hikes may pose challenges in the coming months.
The ministry projected that growth in the US and eurozone would moderate due to the cumulative effects of monetary policy tightening. Similarly, China’s growth is expected to decelerate further due to ongoing weaknesses in its property sector, domestic consumption, and subdued external demand. Despite sluggish global demand for electronics, one of Singapore’s major exports, there are indications that the downturn may be stabilizing.
Continued growth in tourism arrivals is anticipated to support aviation and tourism-related businesses. Taking into account the overall performance of Singapore’s economy in the first three quarters of the year, along with the latest external and domestic developments, the GDP growth forecast for 2023 has been narrowed to around 1.0 percent.
Looking ahead to 2024, the ministry foresees a growth range of 1.0-3.0 percent. However, potential downside risks include high inflation and an escalation of conflicts, such as those between Israel and Hamas or the war in Ukraine. The confluence of these factors could impact business and consumer sentiments, leading to a potential slowdown in global growth and trade.
