The Common Pulse

 By Mutunga Tobbias The Common Pulse | August 2025 Tucked along the narrow lanes of Melaka’s historic quarter stands the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum,  a mansion that is more than just bricks and timber. It is a time capsule, preserving the rich and colorful legacy of the Peranakan community , descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay Archipelago centuries ago and blended seamlessly with local Malay traditions. Who Are the Baba & Nyonya? The term Baba refers to the men and Nyonya to the women of the Peranakan community. Emerging from intermarriages between Chinese traders and local Malay women, they created a hybrid culture that is uniquely their own, rich in customs, cuisine, and style. Their way of life is a reflection of Melaka’s long history as a crossroads of trade and cultures. A Mansion Frozen in Time The museum is housed in a late-19th-century Peranakan townhouse, meticulously preserved by descendants of the Chan family. Walking through i...

 By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 On August, 2025 , President Donald Trump signed an executive order targeting flag burning , directing federal prosecutors to seek enhanced penalties when the act of burning the American flag is tied to other crimes such as vandalism, trespassing, or incitement. While Trump framed the measure as a defense of patriotism and national unity, critics across the political spectrum see it as a direct challenge to decades of Supreme Court precedent affirming flag burning as a form of constitutionally protected speech . A Flashpoint in the Culture Wars Flag burning has long been one of the most polarizing symbols in American life. To many conservatives and veterans’ groups, it is the ultimate act of disrespect toward the nation and those who served under the flag. To free speech advocates, however, it is one of the clearest examples of expressive conduct,  offensive to some, but squarely within the First Amendment’s protections. By ...

By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 If you want to experience the soul of Borneo beyond its lush rainforests and winding rivers, you have to step inside a longhouse . These traditional communal homes, found in Sarawak and Sabah, are more than just architectural marvels, they are the heartbeat of indigenous culture, where stories, rituals, and community life continue to thrive. What is a Longhouse? A longhouse is exactly what its name suggests: one long wooden structure built on stilts, stretching anywhere from 100 to 300 meters. Each family occupies a private section, but they share a central open hall called the ruai . This space is where everything happens, festivals, nightly gatherings, music, and the passing down of oral traditions. For the Iban, Bidayuh, and other Dayak communities in Sarawak, as well as the Rungus in Sabah, the longhouse is not just a home. It is the symbol of unity and identity , a place where the concept of gotong-royong (collective effort) is...

 By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 Tucked away just a short drive from Fort Portal in western Uganda lies one of the region’s most enchanting hidden gems; the Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru Caves . More than just a geological wonder, this site is woven deeply into the folklore of the Tooro Kingdom, offering visitors a rare chance to experience both natural beauty and cultural storytelling in a single destination. The Legend of Princess Nyinamwiru The caves derive their name from the legend of Princess Nyinamwiru , the daughter of a Tooro king who refused to marry the suitor chosen for her. As punishment, her father ordered her breasts to be cut off, so she could never nurse children. The white, milky-looking stalactites dripping within the caves are believed to symbolize her breasts, eternally weeping for her tragic fate. For the local community, the caves are not just rocks and minerals, but sacred spaces carrying ancestral memory. Geological Marvels Beyond the folklore, th...

By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 In a landmark decision with sweeping economic and political implications, a federal appeals court has ruled that many of President Donald Trump’s global tariffs are unconstitutional , but in a twist, the court will allow them to remain in effect temporarily while legal and legislative battles play out. The Ruling The court found that Trump’s broad use of presidential power to impose tariffs under the banner of “reciprocity” went beyond what the Constitution allows. Judges emphasized that while the executive branch can enforce trade laws, it cannot unilaterally create or expand sweeping global tariff systems without explicit congressional approval. Yet, citing concerns over immediate economic disruptions, the court decided that the tariffs would stay in place for now,  giving Congress and the White House time to consider legislative fixes or appeals to the Supreme Court. What Tariffs Are Affected? The decision targets Trump’s m...

By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 In August 2025, Egypt intensified its crackdown on social media culture, targeting teen TikTok influencers under charges ranging from “violating public morality” to “financial crimes.” Dozens of young content creators, many of them under 20, have been detained in recent weeks as authorities attempt to assert tighter control over online spaces that remain hugely popular among Egypt’s youth. The Targets: Teen Stars of TikTok The crackdown comes as TikTok has grown into one of the most influential platforms in Egypt, with millions of daily users. Many of the arrested influencers are ordinary teenagers who rose to prominence by posting short videos on fashion, comedy, and music trends. Authorities allege that some creators were “misleading youth,” while others are accused of tax evasion, money laundering, or receiving foreign funds without disclosure. Morality vs. Modernity This wave of arrests highlights Egypt’s long-running tensio...

 By Mutunga Tobbias The Common Pulse | August 2025 The humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan’s Darfur region is deepening, with North Darfur’s capital, El-Fashir , becoming the epicenter of one of Africa’s gravest crises in 2025. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) , a powerful paramilitary faction, has intensified its assault on the city, placing more than 600,000 civilians at risk,  many of them women and children. A City Under Siege El-Fashir, long considered a fragile haven for displaced communities fleeing violence in other parts of Darfur, is now itself surrounded. Reports indicate that the RSF has cut off key supply routes, making food, medicine, and clean water increasingly scarce. Humanitarian organizations warn that the blockade could soon push the population into catastrophic famine conditions . Displacement and Desperation Since the escalation of violence earlier this year, more than half a million people have been forced from their homes. Camps around El-Fashir, already ov...

By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 As the world gears up for COP30 and the Africa Climate Summit , a remarkable alliance is taking shape in Nairobi, not among politicians or corporate executives, but among faith leaders . Christian bishops, Muslim clerics, and interfaith coalitions are increasingly stepping forward, insisting that the climate crisis is not just a political or scientific issue, but also a moral and spiritual one . A Moral Voice for the Planet In a joint call issued this August, religious leaders urged governments and global institutions to treat climate change as an ethical emergency . Rising heat waves, deadly floods, and prolonged droughts are already devastating communities across West Africa, East Africa, and the Sahel. For faith leaders, ignoring these realities is not simply poor governance, it is a violation of human dignity and a betrayal of future generations. Funding, Justice, and Debt One of the strongest demands from Nairobi was a call fo...

By Tobias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 From August, 2025 , Abidjan hosted the Pan-African Catholic Congress , a gathering that brought together bishops, theologians, missionaries, and lay leaders from across the continent. This year’s theme was particularly poignant: shifting Africa’s role from being seen merely as a “mission field” to becoming a mission-sending church . A Church on the Move For decades, the narrative has painted Africa as a recipient of missionary activity, a land where priests, religious sisters, and evangelists arrived to spread the Gospel. But the Congress sought to highlight a powerful truth: Africa’s churches are now vibrant, growing, and ready to send missionaries to the world . African priests, nuns, and lay workers are increasingly present in Europe, the Americas, and Asia, helping revive communities struggling with declining vocations. The Hidden Struggles of African Missionaries While enthusiasm for African missionary work is rising, delegates ...

 By Tobias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 Every year, Nepal captures global attention for a unique cultural phenomenon often dubbed “Weed Day”  ,  a day when cannabis use becomes unusually visible and, in many cases, tolerated. Though marijuana remains illegal under Nepalese law, this one-day observance intertwines religion, tradition, and modern tourism in a way that sparks fascination and debate. The Religious Roots “Ganja Day,” as some call it, is closely tied to Maha Shivaratri, one of Hinduism’s most significant festivals. Devotees of Lord Shiva, revered as the cosmic god of destruction and transformation, believe that cannabis is sacred to him. Scriptures and folklore describe Shiva as a divine ascetic who consumed marijuana to aid in meditation and connect with higher states of consciousness. On Maha Shivaratri , thousands of pilgrims, sadhus (Hindu holy men), and tourists gather at Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. Smoking marijuana, often rolled in chil...

By Mwaniki Justin The Common Pulse | August 2025 In a gripping political drama unfolding over three intense days (August 27–29), Kericho Governor Erick Mutai once again avoided removal from office, as the Senate ruled the County Assembly had failed to meet the constitutional two-thirds threshold for impeachment. The Context and Charges The impeachment motion had been tabled by the Kericho County Assembly on August 15 , with a convincing 33 out of 47 MCAs voting in favor. The accusations against Governor Mutai included: Gross violation of the law and misappropriation of county funds, allegedly involving KSh 85.7 million in fictitious payments and misused NAVCDP funds exceeding KSh 351 million. Abuse of office through illegal appointments, dismissals, and interference with Assembly oversight. Gross misconduct, including orchestrating a mob to invade private land against a court order. Defense Strategy and Technical Hurdles Mutai’s legal team, led by Katwa Kigen , challeng...

By Tobias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 Kenya has once again been gripped by horror and disbelief after authorities exhumed 32 bodies in Kwa Binzaro, Kilifi County, in what is believed to be a continuation of the Shakahola forest doomsday cult tragedy . The cult, led by controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie , had previously made global headlines in 2023 when mass graves were discovered in Shakahola, exposing one of the world’s deadliest religious extremism cases. Renewed Grief, Renewed Questions This latest discovery has triggered fresh outrage over the government’s ability, or inability, to regulate extremist religious movements. Critics argue that despite the shocking events of Shakahola two years ago, little progress has been made in monitoring or shutting down rogue preachers who exploit the poor and vulnerable under the guise of faith. Authorities confirmed that eleven suspects have been arrested in connection with the new graves. Families of the victims, many of w...

By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 History was made in late August 2025 when Alef Aeronautics , a Bay Area startup, officially began test operations of its much-anticipated electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) flying car . Described as the world’s first true flying car , the vehicle is now operating at Half Moon Bay Airport and Hollister Airport in Silicon Valley. Unlike previous prototypes that blurred the line between car and plane, Alef’s creation is designed as a road-legal passenger car with full VTOL capabilities,  meaning it can drive on the highway like any other car and then take off vertically without needing a runway. What Makes It a True Flying Car? Alef’s test flights demonstrate a wide range of capabilities that blend everyday driving with futuristic aviation: Driving on the road like a conventional electric car Vertical takeoff from a standstill, no runway required Forward flight once airborne Vertical landing back onto roa...

By Tobias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 The global energy landscape is shifting, and fast. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) , China’s rapid solar expansion is on track to achieve something unprecedented: by the early 2030s, China will generate more electricity from the sun alone than the United States consumes from all energy sources combined . This milestone highlights both the scale of China’s renewable energy ambitions and the widening gap in global clean energy leadership. China’s Solar Growth: Record-Breaking Speed China has already cemented its position as the world’s largest investor in renewable energy, and solar power is at the heart of its transition. Key drivers include: Massive government investment in renewable infrastructure and subsidies. Global dominance in solar manufacturing , with China producing over 80% of the world’s solar panels. Falling costs of solar technology, making it the cheapest form of new electricity generation i...

  BY MBULA  PENINAH THE COMON PULSE. Each year, the narrow streets of Lamu Old Town come alive with color, rhythm, and heritage during the Lamu Cultural Festival . This event is more than a spectacle  it’s a living showcase of Swahili culture , where history, tradition, and community spirit meet under the coastal sun. Dhow Races A Symbol of the Sea The highlight of the festival is the dhow races . These traditional wooden sailing vessels, once central to Indian Ocean trade, take to the waters in a thrilling competition. Watching their white sails glide across the turquoise sea is not only beautiful but also a reminder of Lamu’s deep maritime history.  Poetry and Storytelling Poetry is central to Swahili culture, and during the festival, oral traditions come to life. Local poets and storytellers recite verses in Kiswahili, weaving themes of love, history, and faith. This keeps alive a literary tradition that has connected generations along the East African coast...

BY MBULA NTHENYA. THE COMMON PULSE. Kenya’s coastline is more than just sun-soaked beaches and turquoise waters. Behind the palm trees and Indian Ocean breeze lies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and traditions shaped by centuries of trade and migration. From the mysterious Gedi Ruins to the legacy of Swahili trade and the vibrance of modern cultural festivals, Kenya’s coast is a destination where the past and present blend seamlessly.   The Gedi Ruins A Forgotten City in the Forest Tucked away in the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest near Malindi, the Gedi Ruins are among East Africa’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Dating back to the 12th century, this once-thriving Swahili city was built with coral stone houses, mosques, and even flushing toilets a sign of remarkable advancement for its time. Though abandoned in the 17th century, Gedi remains shrouded in mystery. Walking through the crumbling archways and vine-covered walls today, visitors can feel the whispers of a cos...

 BY NTHENYA MBULA. THE COMMON PULSE. Few cities in the world carry as much history and cultural weight as Cairo . Known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets,” Egypt’s bustling capital has always been a crossroads of civilizations. Today, Cairo is experiencing a cultural revival  one that honors its pharaonic past while embracing a modern identity. The Grand Avenue of the Sphinxes One of the most exciting additions to Cairo’s cultural landscape is the Grand Avenue of the Sphinxes , a restored 3,000-year-old processional road connecting Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple . Though technically located in Luxor, its reopening has reignited global interest in Egypt’s archaeological wonders, making Cairo the gateway for travelers who want to experience the full breadth of ancient Egyptian glory.  A New Era of Museums Cairo is also redefining how the world engages with history through its new museum projects . The upcoming Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) , set near the pyramids of Gi...

  BY KIRANGACHA MWANIKI. THE COMMON PULSE. When it comes to making headlines, Nigerian music superstar Davido knows how to set the stage  and his wedding to longtime partner Chioma Rowland was no exception. The Afrobeat icon tied the knot in a lavish Miami ceremony , turning what was already a love story in the spotlight into one of the year’s most talked-about celebrity events.   A Wedding in Paradise Miami’s tropical backdrop set the tone for an unforgettable celebration. Guests were welcomed into a world of glitz, glamour, and cultural fusion  a perfect blend of Nigerian tradition and international flair. The ceremony, hosted at a luxury waterfront venue, radiated romance as Davido and Chioma exchanged vows before family, friends, and an elite guest list.  A Star Studded Affair No Davido event would be complete without the presence of fellow celebrities, influencers, and music industry heavyweights. Reports and social media snippets revealed a dazzling...

BY KIRANGACHA MWANIKI. THE COMMON PULSE. While Sanya is filled with stunning stretches of coastline, Dadonghai Beach stands out as the most vibrant and accessible. Just a short drive from Sanya’s city center, this lively bay is the perfect introduction to Hainan’s tropical charm especially for families and first-time visitors. With its gentle waves, golden sands, and buzzing boardwalk , Dadonghai is where convenience meets leisure. A Beach Made for Everyone Unlike some of Sanya’s more exclusive or remote bays, Dadonghai is wonderfully approachable. The waters are calm and shallow, making it ideal for children to splash safely while parents relax under swaying palms. For those looking for fun, the beach offers plenty of water sports  from banana boats and jet skiing to snorkeling along coral reefs.  Dining by the Shore One of Dadonghai’s greatest perks is its lively boardwalk lined with cafés, seafood restaurants, and beach bars . You can feast on freshly grilled fish, si...