Malta Tourism Authority Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Sep 10 2024

The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) celebrated its 25th anniversary on 9 September with a special event at the historic Auberge d’Italie in Valletta, its former headquarters. This milestone highlights a quarter-century of efforts to position Malta as a top global tourist destination, contributing to the country’s economic growth and enhancing visitor experiences.

The commemorative event gathered current and former MTA staff, past Chairmen, CEOs, Ministers responsible for tourism, and the MTA Board of Directors. Former employees were recognized for their valuable contributions to the Authority’s success, which has significantly shaped Malta’s tourism industry. The celebration also served as an opportunity to reflect on the MTA’s journey, its achievements, and the challenges faced over the years.

Key industry figures, including MTA Chairman Gavin Gulia, MTA CEO Carlo Micallef, and Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo, delivered speeches. Dr. Gulia emphasized the Authority’s transformation over 25 years, noting its role in diversifying Malta’s tourism offerings. CEO Carlo Micallef honored the legacy of those who laid the foundation for the sector’s success and reaffirmed MTA’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Minister Bartolo praised the Authority’s impact on the tourism landscape and reinforced the government’s ongoing support for the industry.

The event also featured a tribute to former MTA staff, who were honored with commemorative awards.

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Animal Liberation Malta Protest Against Karozzini

Sep 10 2024

Animal Liberation Malta held a protest on the steps of Auberge De Castille in Valletta on Saturday 7th September, calling for the immediate abolition of horse carriages (karozzini) due to the exploitation and suffering of the horses involved.

The action, was addressed by Tanya Fontebasso, Althea Galea, and Darryl Grima, each addressing different aspects of this outdated and cruel practice.

Tanya Fontebasso opened the protest, highlighting the daily hardships horses endure. “Karozzini is nothing short of animal slavery,” she stated. “These horses are forced to pull heavy carriages in the sweltering heat, amidst traffic, and on hard city streets. We can no longer tolerate this suffering for tourism and tradition.”

Althea Galea followed with an emotional speech, focusing on the ethical concerns and the public’s demand for change.

“We are evolving as a society,” Galea said. “It’s time we reflect our progress by treating animals with the respect they deserve. Tradition is not an excuse for cruelty, and the continued use of karozzini is a blatant disregard for animal welfare and rights.”

Darryl Grima closed the protest by urging policymakers to act. “We call on the government to immediately ban this practice. Sustainable, animal-friendly alternatives exist, and the time for change is now. We will continue fighting until we see an end to this inhumane industry.”

Animal Liberation Malta reaffirms its commitment to the abolition of karozzini and will continue advocating for the protection of all animals from exploitation.

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Ex-Boyfriend Who Set Ugandan Athlete On Fire Dies From Burns Sustained During Attack

Sep 10 2024

A Kenyan hospital official has confirmed the death of Dickson Ndiema, the former boyfriend of Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who succumbed to burns he sustained after setting her on fire. Ndiema attacked Cheptegei over a week ago as she returned home from church, dousing her with petrol and igniting the blaze. The two were reportedly involved in a land dispute in north-west Kenya, where Cheptegei resided and trained. Ndiema died Monday night in the intensive care unit after being admitted with burns covering more than 30% of his body.

Following the attack last Thursday, neighbors reported hearing screams as Cheptegei ran towards them, pleading for help. Local media revealed that Ndiema had sneaked into Cheptegei’s home in Trans Nzoia county with a five-liter jerry can of petrol. During the fatal incident, Ndiema also got splashed with fuel and was caught in the fire after setting Cheptegei ablaze.

Ndiema had been named the prime suspect in Cheptegei’s murder, and police were preparing charges against him. Both Cheptegei and Ndiema were admitted to Moi Hospital, where they later died from their injuries.

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Harris And Trump Are Set To Face Off In A Crucial Campaign Debate.

Sep 10 2024

The upcoming presidential debate on Tuesday night between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris is poised to be a critical moment in the 2024 election campaign. With President Joe Biden’s underwhelming performance in June’s debate leading to his withdrawal from the race, Harris, still relatively unknown to many voters, faces a pivotal opportunity to solidify her standing. Recent polls show a tight race, highlighting the importance of this debate.

Harris, who has been Vice President for over three years and running for president for seven weeks, must navigate the debate while defending the Biden administration’s record on contentious issues like border security and inflation. Her previous positions on fracking, border policies, and healthcare, which she has since moderated, will likely come under scrutiny.

For Trump, the debate is a chance to regain momentum after a month of Democratic headlines. Known for his debate prowess, Trump must avoid past pitfalls and offer clear, decisive answers, especially after his recent struggle to explain his childcare policies. He also needs to manage his tone carefully to avoid alienating female voters.

Both candidates have prepared differently: Harris with mock debates and policy reviews in Pittsburgh, and Trump with informal sessions and a Fox News town hall. As early voting begins this month, this debate will be crucial in shaping voter perceptions and the final stretch of the 2024 race.

#MaltaDaily