On 30 April multiple unions, including the Workers’ United Center plan to hold a strike to denounce the national government’s economic policies. Nationwide protests are likely. Expect such activity around government offices or hospitals. Protests are likely to disrupt transportation, non-emergency health services, and government offices. Clashes with police are likely due to the size of the protests.
As of 28 April, the N8 highway near Kimberley Airport closed due to protests against service delivery issues. Protesters put burning tires on the road and threw projectiles at vehicles. As of 29 April, the N4 highway is experiencing similar disruption near the Buffelspoort tollgate towards Tshwane (Pretoria). Authorities are responding to manage traffic and protest control. Expect significant traffic on alternate routes.
On 30 April, a protest is planned at the capital. Located at the Spreewaldplatz at 20:00, people plan to march through the city to draw attention to various issues such as women’s reproductive health, homophobia and transphobia, devaluation of care work and other feminized occupations. The protest is being planned by multiple feminist groups.
Vietnamese authorities have issued a level 1 disaster risk warning, the lowest on a five-tier scale, for potential adverse weather conditions through at least 29 April in 12 provinces. Flash floods and landslides are possible alongside the forecasted heavy rain and thunderstorms. Evacuation orders may be issued on short notice. Affected provinces include Bac Giang, Bac Kan, Cao Bang, Ha Giang, Lai Chau, Lao Cai, Phu Tho, Yen Bai, Tuyen Quang, Lang Son, and Thai Nguyen.
At around 15:00 local time on 26 April, police responded to reports of gunshots near Crawley College in Sussex. At least two people have sustained minor injuries, it is unknown what injuries were sustained. Police have said they are not gunshot wounds. Students and faculty were evacuated as a precaution. A man was reportedly detained but police say the search is still ongoing. Police are advising the public to avoid the area until further notice.
On 21 April, a disruption of water supply began due to a strike by water service workers. The demonstrators are protesting to demand salary increases, housing allowances, and an increase in pension and medical aid. Affected areas include Gauteng, North West, Mpumalanga, and the Free State. Throughout these strikes, water supply is not guaranteed.
On 21 April staff at the Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok tested positive for COVID-19 leading to the closure of various offices for disinfection. The passenger terminal remains open; however, disruptions may occur until at least 24 April. Reconfirm flights and expect delays as other airlines have canceled domestic flights due to the presence of COVID-19 within the facility.
Tropical Cyclone Jobo is continuing west and will reach land near Pombwe, Tanzania between 25- 26 April. Heavy rain and strong winds are likely to affect the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique and southern parts of Kenya. Flooding is likely in coastal and low-lying areas. Temporary road closures, telecommunication, and electricity disruptions are likely. Expect travel disruptions due to the flooding and emergency response.
Anticipate student-led protests at Walter Sisulu University (WSU) campuses in Eastern Cape province in the coming days. Protests are calling for greater financial support. On 20 April, four officers were injured by stone-throwing at the Mthatha campus, while police vehicles were set on fire. All WSU campuses have closed indefinitely in response since then.
A nationwide strike is planned to take place on 23 April by labor unions with a coinciding march in Paris. The strikes are to denounce unemployment insurance reforms. In regards to the march, participants are expected to gather at Place d’Italie at 14:00 local time and will then march to Place de la Bastille. Travel disruptions are likely and clashes are not being ruled out.
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