Debunking the Mosquito Coil Lung Disease Myth in South Sudan and Ghana (2016)

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There is no clear evidence that long-term exposure to mosquito coil smoke increases the risk of more severe health impacts such as lung cancer, but extended exposure to mosquito coils in enclosed areas should be avoided.

Writer: Jibi Moses

A message claiming that mosquito coils are the common cause of lung cancer in South Sudan and Ghana, making the rounds in WhatsApp groups and private chats, is not supported by substantial evidence.

The message quotes a Medical Journal published in 2016 by Hogarth et al.—Malar, which says that mosquito coil smoke is a potential source of indoor infections and other diseases but did not mention lung cancer. The message, which has pictures of the Zenden brand of Mosquito coil, primarily talks about the dangers of the coil and how it is the leading cause of lung diseases in South Sudan and Ghana.

“Mosquito coils, commonly used as residential insecticides in South Sudan and other African Countries such as Ghana, were the major cause of Lung disease…,” partly reads the message.

The viral message further claims other studies done in Asia show that the insecticide has different chemicals, including chloromethyl, which, the article says, is a highly potent lung carcinogen that can be produced by thermolytic degradation. The content, however, does not have an author or a clear origin.

A screenshot of the circulating message on WhatsApp 

What do we know?

The author quotes the study in his or her article  Malaria  Journal by Jonathan Hogarth, published on February 4, 2016, in Ghana, under the heading Application of Mosquito Repellents, Coils, and Associating Health Issues in Ghana. The report was the final work of research to determine the effectiveness of mosquito coils and repellents and their associated impact. 

The research found that the insecticides were ineffective and posed a health danger but did not explicitly state that it is the cause of lung cancer in South Sudan and Ghana.

A report published by the National Library of Medicine in 2015 by JIE Zhang and others titled Mosquito coil exposure associated with small cell lung cancer: A report of three cases. A research report carried out in Asia on cancer patients was carried out on a few individuals who previously worked with a mosquito coil-producing company. The information admits insecticides have chloromethyl, a highly potent lung carcinogen. However, the report says the significance of exposure is uncertain.

“Mosquito coils, commonly used as residential insecticides in Asia, contain different concentrations of octachlorodipropyl ether (S-2) as a synergist or an active ingredient. As bis(chloromethyl) ether (BCME) is an extremely potent lung carcinogen that can be produced by the thermolytic degradation of S-2, contact with mosquito coils is likely to expose individuals to a certain level of BCME and therefore increase the risk of lung cancer. However, the significance of exposure is uncertain as clinical and epidemiological studies concerning mosquito coil users and workers are lacking….” 

The report concludes that contact with mosquito coils will likely expose individuals to a level of S-2 that may increase the risk of SCLC but does not concretely say mosquito coils cause cancer. 

What is lung cancer disease?

Penn Medicine defines lung cancer disease as any lung problem that prevents the lungs from working properly. World Health Organisation says The significant risk factors for chronic respiratory diseases include tobacco smoke and other indoor air pollution, allergens, household chemicals, and outdoor pollution. Some leading causes of lung diseases are explained here.

Conclusion:

211 Check finds the claim that mosquito coil is the leading cause of lung diseases unproven. Though the insecticide has some chloromethyl content, the World Health Organisation says tobacco is the leading cause of lung diseases.

In the face of this uncertainty, the essential lesson should be to avoid extended exposure to mosquito coils, particularly in enclosed areas, The Conversation says.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

It is crucial to fight against misinformation and disinformation in mainstream and alternative media by avoiding becoming a victim of fake news. To prevent the spread of false information, you must refrain from sharing content you are unsure about or unaware of its origin. Disinformation and misinformation can be incredibly dangerous because they can mislead people and cause harm. For instance, false information on health matters can lead to wrong decisions that can put people’s lives at risk. Therefore, it’s vital to fact-check information before sharing it to promote accurate and reliable information. Visit https://211check.org/ for more details on our fact-checking process, or send us a WhatsApp message at +211 917 298 255 if you want to present a claim. Our team will promptly respond to your request because we believe #FactsMatter.

Fact-check: Viral WhatsApp message about 2023 recruitment at Total Energies is false

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The messages on WhatsApp are scams embedded with malicious links intended to steal people’s helpful information. 

Writer: Jibi Moses

A message is making rounds on WhatsApp claiming Total Energies, one of the world’s leading petroleum business companies, is recruiting. This is false.

“GOOD NEWS!  TotalEnergies Oil and Gas company is recruiting both Skilled and Unskilled Labour with good Salary Payment. It is no longer news. APPLY NOW,” the message reads partially.

On clicking the job advertisement link, it looks too good to be true because it highly emphasizes that the company offers both skilled and unskilled labour. The application is too easy to fill out, and when one is done filling in his details, you are requested to share the link in five WhatsApp groups or over fifteen individuals to get the job.

A screenshot of the job advertisement on opening the link.

What have we found out?

211 Check investigated the advertisement by examining the link attached to the message. Results from one of the vendors on VirusTotal, an online tool used to detect malware and other suspicious wares, show that the connection is embedded with a Malicious URL. These are links created to promote scams or fraudulent activity. They are persuasive, intending to gain sensitive and personal information. Clicking on such links can lead to various consequences, from having your data stolen to being the victim of a cyberattack.

Total Energies is a French multinational integrated energy and petroleum company founded in 1924 and is one of the seven supermajor oil companies. Is Headquartered in  Courbevoie, France. With Subsidiaries of  TotalEnergies, Total Espana SA, SunPower, and MORE currently under the leadership of Patrick Pouyanné as the CEO, He assumed that position on 22 October 2014. 

The company was founded on March 28 March 1924, by  Ernest Mercier. As of 2020, it employs up to  105,476 people with a straightforward means of calling for applications through the Career section on their websites.

We ran the two links on Whois, an online tool that analyses websites and showed that the two links are entirely different. The Total Energies website was first registered in France in 2014 and updated in 2023. Meanwhile, the other link was first recorded in 2023 the United States in America. Earlier this year, a similar advert made rounds on the internet particularly WhatsApp and 211 Check, found it false.

A Screenshot of the Whois details of the Total Energies website as shown by whois.com

A screenshot of the malicious link is shown on whois.com.

Conclusion:

211 Check finds that the advert in WhatsApp groups and private chats claiming to be from Total Energies is false. These are scams embedded with Malicious links intended to steal people’s helpful information. We advise the public to be cautious when interacting with such social media posts and verify the authenticity of any claims before acting on them.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

It is crucial to fight against misinformation and disinformation in mainstream and alternative media by avoiding becoming a victim of fake news. To prevent the spread of false information, you must refrain from sharing content you are unsure about or unaware of its origin. Disinformation and misinformation can be incredibly dangerous because they can mislead people and cause harm. For instance, false information on health matters can lead to wrong decisions that can put people’s lives at risk. Therefore, it’s vital to fact-check information before sharing it to promote accurate and reliable information. Visit https://211check.org/ for more details on our fact-checking process, or send us a WhatsApp message at +211 917 298 255 if you want to present a claim. Our team will promptly respond to your request because we believe #FactsMatter.

Explainer: What are internet cookies, and what are they used for? 

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Internet cookies, small text files stored on devices, remember preferences, track activity, and enhance browsing. However, concerns about tracking and privacy exist, and users can accept or reject cookies based on convenience, personalization, and privacy preferences.

Writer: Steve Topua

Internet cookies, or HTTP cookies, are small text files stored on a user’s computer or device when they visit a website. These files contain data websites use to remember user preferences, track activity, and enhance the browsing experience. Websites create cookies and send them to a user’s web browser, where they are stored and sent back to the website each time the user revisits it.

History

The concept of internet cookies was introduced by Lou Montulli, a computer programmer, in 1994. Montulli worked at Netscape Communications Corporation (now known as Mozilla Corporation). He developed the original implementation of cookies to solve a problem related to managing online shopping carts.

Montulli’s invention of cookies was a significant milestone in web technology. It allowed websites to store small data on a user’s computer or device, enabling them to remember user preferences, maintain session information, and enhance the browsing experience.

Since their introduction, cookies have become an integral part of the web ecosystem, serving various functions for website functionality, personalisation, and analytics. They have evolved and been standardised over time, with different types and mechanisms for managing them implemented in web browsers and governed by privacy regulations.

Types of Cookies

Some of the types of cookies include:

  • Necessary cookies: a cookie the website uses to function correctly, without which the site would not work. This type of cookie does not collect any personally identifiable information about you and does not track your browsing habits.
  • Session Cookies: These cookies are temporary and are erased once the user closes their browser. They are primarily used to maintain a user’s session on a website, remembering actions and preferences during the visit. Session cookies are crucial in online shopping carts or maintaining logged-in states.
  • Persistent/permanent Cookies: Unlike session cookies, persistent cookies remain on a user’s device even after the browser is closed. They have an expiration date and can store information such as login details, language preferences, and personalised settings. Persistent cookies enable websites to recognise returning users and provide a more personalised experience.
  • Third-Party Cookies: Third-party cookies are created by domains other than the website a user is visiting. They are commonly used for advertising and tracking purposes, allowing advertisers to deliver targeted ads based on a user’s browsing history and behaviour across multiple websites.

Uses

The following are some of the uses of Internet Cookies:

  • Enhanced User Experience: Cookies enable websites to remember user preferences, making subsequent visits more personalised and efficient. They allow for features like saved login information, language preferences, and tailored content recommendations.
  • Shopping Convenience: Persistent cookies facilitate online shopping by storing items in a user’s cart even if they navigate away from the website. They also remember user details, simplifying the checkout process.
  • Website Analytics: Cookies provide valuable insights to website owners by collecting anonymous data on user behaviour. This data helps improve website performance, identify popular content, and optimise marketing strategies.

Concerns and Privacy Considerations:

While cookies offer numerous benefits, privacy and data security concerns have arisen. Some key considerations include

  • Tracking and Profiling: Third-party cookies can track users’ activities across multiple websites, leading to concerns about data privacy and online profiling. This has sparked debates about the balance between personalised experiences and individual privacy.
  • Security Risks: As cookies store information on a user’s device, there is a potential risk if malicious parties access them. However, modern web browsers have implemented safeguards to mitigate these risks.
  • Opt-Out Options: Recognizing the need for transparency and control, web browsers and privacy regulations allow users to manage and control cookie settings. Users can block or delete cookies or opt out of targeted advertising.

Should you Accept or Reject Internet Cookies?

We explore the benefits and challenges of each of the two options.

Accepting Cookies gives you the following advantages:

  • Buying cookies enables websites to remember your preferences and settings, such as language preferences, login information, and personalised content recommendations.  This often leads to a more customised and convenient browsing experience.
  • Cookies help websites remember your previous interactions, making it easier for you to navigate and interact with the site. For instance, if you add items to your shopping cart and accept cookies, the website can retain that information, even if you leave and return later.
  • Many website features and services rely on cookies to function correctly. Accepting cookies ensures that all website functionalities, such as forms, shopping carts, and user preferences, operate smoothly.

Rejecting Cookies ensures the following is achieved:

  • Enhanced Privacy: Rejecting cookies can provide a higher level of privacy as it limits the data that websites can collect about your browsing habits. This is particularly relevant for third-party cookies, often used for tracking and targeted advertising.
  • Limited Personalization: Without cookies, websites may be unable to remember your preferences or provide personalised experiences. You may need to enter login information manually, set language preferences, or customise settings each time you visit a site.
  • Disrupted Functionality: Some websites may rely heavily on cookies to provide certain functionalities. Rejecting cookies might reduce functionality, rendering certain features inaccessible or less convenient.

Managing Cookie Settings:

 Many web browsers offer more granular controls for managing cookie settings. These options include blocking third-party cookies and deleting cookies.

Ultimately, the decision to accept or reject cookies depends on your preferences regarding convenience, personalisation, and privacy. Reviewing and adjusting your cookie settings in your web browser to align with your desired level of privacy and browsing experience is advisable.

Can cookies be erased or blocked?

To erase cookies, you must find and delete the folder or file where they are stored on your device.

  • Session cookies will automatically be deleted when you close your web browser.
  • You can also block a website’s cookies by configuring your browser settings.
  • You can also use specialist software that protects against malicious cookies. These applications can be customised to let you change the content of the cookies you want to receive or allow to be stored on your device.

Cookie Wall and its implications:

According to cookiebot , a cookie wall is a practice where a website blocks access to its content or services unless the user consents to use cookies. In other words, it forces users to accept cookies to access the website’s full functionality. Cookie walls are often presented as pop-up overlays or banners that require users to click “Accept” or a similar option to proceed.

The use of cookie walls has been debated and has raised concerns regarding privacy and freedom of choice for users. Critics argue that cookie walls may create a situation where users feel coerced into accepting cookies, compromising their privacy rights. They say that users should be able to access a website’s content without being forced to consent to data collection through cookies.

Laws addressing Cookie Walls

The following are some laws that specifically address cookie walls. These laws protect user privacy and ensure consent is not obtained through coercion. They promote transparency and allow users to make informed choices about cookies and their data.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

The GDPR, which applies to the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA), sets strict requirements for obtaining user consent. It requires all multinational companies to provide an opt-in whereby website owners receive a user’s permission to use cookies before storing them on a user’s web browsers. This opt-in is designed to give users greater control over their data, knowing the information is being collected if they consent to that data collection. It also emphasises that permission must be freely given, specific, informed, and unambiguous. GDPR explicitly states that consent is invalid if a user is forced to consent by a cookie wall. 

ePrivacy Directive

The ePrivacy Directive, or the “Cookie Law,” applies to EU member states and governs using cookies and similar technologies. It requires websites to obtain user consent before placing non-essential cookies, such as those used for tracking or advertising. The directive does not explicitly address cookie walls, but it emphasises the importance of user consent and transparency.

California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)

CCPA, a privacy law in California, gives consumers the right to opt out of selling their personal information. While it does not explicitly mention cookie walls, it provides users the right to refuse the sale of their personal information, which may include data collected through cookies.

Brazil’s General Data Protection Law (LGPD)

LGPD, Brazil’s data protection law, requires websites to obtain explicit user consent before processing data. While it does not explicitly mention cookie walls, it highlights the importance of freely given consent.

Website owners and operators must comply with relevant privacy laws and ensure their practices respect user rights and privacy preferences.

Sources:

  1. https://allaboutcookies.org/what-is-a-cookie 
  2. https://www.cloudflare.com/learning/privacy/what-are-cookies/#:~:text=Cookies%20are%20small%20files%20of,makes%20of%20the%20web%20server. 
  3. https://www.earthlink.net/blog/what-are-internet-cookies/ 

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

Fact-check: No, this circular was not issued by WHO

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The messages about habits that hurt the brain have not come from the World Health Organisation. The WHO has nothing to do with these false messages being spread in its name.

Writer: Jibi Moses

A Circular purportedly from the World Health Organization is making rounds on WhatsApp with what they say are the seven causes of brain stroke.

The document begins with an invitingly enticing message written in bold letters as, “Please read this msg carefully and forward it to everyone for knowledge.”

A screenshot of the false circular

Investigations

211Check ran a Reverse Image Search to investigate whether it was from the World Health Organization. The results show that the same claim has been circulating for a long time, and many fact-checking organisations have previously worked on it. Facts Crecendo and Vishvas News are some of the organisations, and they found that WHO did not issue this and that these seven habits don’t cause brain stroke, though they can be dangerous to our health if overdone, according to health experts.

“While the seven habits mentioned in the viral post do not directly lead to brain damage, however, it can cause serious health complications when done in excess”.

What is Brain Stroke?

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when something blocks the blood supply to part of the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. In either case, parts of the brain become damaged or die. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or death.

There are mainly two types of stroke, Ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. Most strokes are ischemic strokes. An ischemic stroke occurs when blood clots or other particles block the blood vessels in the brain.

On the 29th of October 2016, a report was published by Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh on the WHO South-East Asia website explaining clearly the causes and effects of brain stroke, which he emphasises much as alcohol consumption and over-smoking.

 “People who smoke should quit, and those who drink heavily should cease. These factors alone significantly multiply the likelihood of stroke.”

Fatty deposits called plaque can also cause blockages by building up in the blood vessels. A hemorrhagic stroke happens when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures (breaks open). The leaked blood puts too much pressure on brain cells, which damages them. Also here are some definitions of brain stroke from population health institutions, NHS- UK, Mayo Clinic, NHI, Cleveland and UCLA Health. 

Blood clots and blood leaks in the brain due to vessel ruptures are the main causes of brain stroke. Johns Hopkins Medicine is a medical institution in the US whose mission is to improve the health of the community and the world by setting the standard of excellence in medical education, research and clinical care. Clearly explains the causes, risks factors,  symptoms, Preventive measures and treatment of Brain Stroke.

NHS also explains the causes of brain stroke in this Article and breaks them down as smoking, high blood pressure (hypertension), obesity, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, and excessive alcohol intake; it further goes ahead and explains the Things that increase the risk of high blood pressure include: being overweight, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, smoking, a lack of exercise, stress.

These factors, mainly collaborating, are the leading causes of stroke.

Conclusion:

211 Check finds that the circular in WhatsApp groups, claiming to be creating awareness by spotting the causes of brain stroke, is false and does not originate from WHO.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

It is crucial to fight against misinformation and disinformation in mainstream and alternative media by avoiding becoming a victim of fake news. To prevent the spread of false information, you must refrain from sharing content you are unsure about or unaware of its origin. Disinformation and misinformation can be incredibly dangerous because they can mislead people and cause harm. For instance, false information on health matters can lead to wrong decisions that can put people’s lives at risk. Therefore, it’s vital to fact-check information before sharing it to promote accurate and reliable information. Visit https://211check.org/ for more details about our fact-checking process, or send us a WhatsApp message at +211 917 298 255 if you want to present a claim. Our team will promptly respond to your request because we believe #FactsMatter.

Fact-check: Did Gumbo Sherikat Juba witness the demolition of these houses?

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These pictures were from Nigeria, Benue state, where the Authorities destroyed two houses of a notorious kidnapper who used them to keep the kidnapped people.

Writer: Jibi Moses

A Facebook page South Sudan News Agency, posted pictures of an excavator demolishing a house. The page boasts 20 thousand likes and 27 thousand followers and describes itself as a Media/ news company managed in Wau and Juba.

 The tabloid says, “An angry man in Gumbo Sherikat demolished a house that he built for his girlfriend’s parents after they rejected his marriage proposal.”

The post attracted over 100 reactions, 50 comments, and 33 shares in one day. However, Other media in East and West Africa have also posted the same pictures with the same false storyline in Kenya (Kenya Today), Nigeria (Naira land forum) and Uganda (Princess Tina).

A screenshot of the image of the building being demolished as posted on Facebook

Investigations:

Comments and posts from the other three countries prompted 211 Check to investigate. 

A Reverse Image Search on the picture shows the pictures were first used on 28 June 2021 in Nigeria. We also discovered the photos were for two separate houses. The Sun, an online Nigerian Outlet, ran the story with the heading “Police demolish two houses used as kidnap den in Benue ”. The piece by Rose Ejembi, written on the 28th of June 2021, has two pictures of the destroyed houses and another snapshot of the owners taken in handcuffs.

“Two houses belonging to a wanted suspected kidnapper and armed robber known as Aondofa Cephas Chekele (alias Azonto) were demolished Monday by the Benue State government”. 

Abdulazeez Badaru Jikamshi, on the 29th of June 2021, posted the same pictures on a Facebook page called Inside Kaduna with two photos of one of the demolished houses. 

“SECURITY NEWS: Benue State govt demolish two houses allegedly belonging to a notorious kidnapper and armed robber Aondofa Cephas Chekele aka Azonto. The state government said this serves as a warning to Criminals that government will no longer tolerate criminal activities in d state. #SecureNorth #SecureNigeria”  as it appears on his post.

Other sources that wrote about the story are here: Ripples Nigeria, Donkes News Lab, and Benue Chronicles News Online, ANN, among many Nigerian News outlets.

A screenshot of one of the pictures used by the Sun shows the police and the kidnapper.
A screenshot of the images of the houses used by the Sun.

Conclusion:

211 Check has found that the pictures of an excavator demolishing a house claiming to be from Gumbo Shirikat are false. These pictures were from Nigeria, Benue state, where the Authorities destroyed two homes of a notorious kidnapper who used them to keep the kidnapped people.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

It is crucial to fight against misinformation and disinformation in mainstream and alternative media by avoiding becoming a victim of fake news. To prevent the spread of false information, you must refrain from sharing content you are unsure about or unaware of its origin. Disinformation and misinformation can be incredibly dangerous because they can mislead people and cause harm. For instance, false information on health matters can lead to wrong decisions that can put people’s lives at risk. Therefore, it’s vital to fact-check information before sharing it to promote accurate and reliable information. Visit https://211check.org/ for more details about our fact-checking process, or send us a WhatsApp message at +211 917 298 255 if you want to present a claim. Our team will promptly respond to your request because we believe #FactsMatter.

South Sudanese Pound’s Rollercoaster Ride: Analyzing its exchange rate journey against the Dominant American Dollar

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This comprehensive analysis explores the history and determinants of the South Sudanese Pound’s exchange rate against the American Dollar, providing insights into its fluctuations and implications for the country’s economy.

Author: Stephen Topua

Introduction:

Currency exchange rates play a crucial role in international trade and financial markets, reflecting the value of one currency to another. This data story delves into the history of the South Sudanese Pound (SSP) and its exchange rate fluctuations against the mighty American Dollar (USD) since its introduction in 2012. We aim to provide valuable insights into the evolving relationship between the SSP and USD, shedding light on the factors influencing their exchange rate dynamics by analysing this trend over the past ten years.

South Sudan, a young nation that gained independence in 2011, introduced its national currency, the South Sudanese Pound, to establish its economic identity. Since then, the exchange rate between the SSP and USD has been a critical measure of the country’s financial performance and stability.

We use this trend to give a perspective of how this relationship has evolved over the last ten years until the present moment when the SSP is trading for over 900 for every USD. 

Background:

Exchange rate: the exchange rate represents the price of a national currency valued as a foreign currency. When the exchange rate for a currency rises so that the currency exchanges for more of other currencies, it is referred to as appreciating or “strengthening.” When the exchange rate for a currency falls so that it trades for less than other currencies, it is referred to as depreciating or “weakening. 

How are exchange rates determined?

Exchange rates, which reflect the value of a country’s currency to other currencies, are influenced by various factors. Inflation, interest rates, public debt, political stability, and economic health all play crucial roles in shaping the strength or weakness of a currency. Countries with low inflation rates and stable political environments tend to have stronger currencies, as they attract investors and inspire confidence. Additionally, a robust economy, positive balance of trade, and low current account deficits contribute to a currency’s appreciation. However, speculative activities and short-term market sentiments can also affect exchange rates.

Understanding these determinants helps in analyzing and predicting currency movements. Knowledge of these factors is vital for businesses, investors, and policymakers in making informed decisions in the global financial markets. It is important to monitor inflation rates, as low inflation tends to support stronger currencies. Interest rates influence the attractiveness of a currency to investors, and higher rates can strengthen exchange rates. Public debt levels, political stability, and economic health also impact exchange rates. Finally, trade balance and current account deficits affect a country’s currency value. By considering these determinants, stakeholders can navigate the complex world of foreign exchange and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Types of exchange rate systems:

There are four main types of exchange rate regimes. The first is the free-floating system, where exchange rates fluctuate constantly based on market demand and supply. Currency prices change dynamically, reflecting the forces of the foreign exchange market.

The remaining three types include fixed, pegged, and managed float systems. In the fixed system, a monetary authority sets a firm exchange rate for the currency to a foreign currency or a basket of currencies. This fixed rate remains constant over time. Under the pegged system, a country ties the value of its currency to a foreign currency or a specific unit of account. Although bilateral parity is maintained, the value of the home currency fluctuates in line with the anchor country’s currency. In the managed float system, the exchange rate is influenced by both market conditions and interventions by the monetary authority. The central bank actively participates in the foreign exchange market to manage and steer the exchange rate without committing to a predetermined path.

Understanding these various exchange rate systems is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of international trade and financial markets. Each system offers different degrees of flexibility and control over a country’s currency value, shaping economic outcomes and policy decisions.

The United States of America vs South Sudan Economies by Comparison:

The GDP is the market value of all final goods and services produced within a country in a given period. For comparison purposes, The GDP of both the USA and South Sudan are:

  • USA: 26.24 trillion USD 
  • South Sudan: 7.02 Billion USD

Evolution in the exchange rate of the South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) versus the United States Dollars (USD)

At the inception, the exchange rate was SSP 2.75 for every 1 USD. However, things quickly went downhill as the exchange rate is currently at 980 SSP for every 1 USD within years, peaking at 1001 SSP for every USD. This is highlighted by the graphs below.:

The first graph shows how the exchange rates have evolved between 2012 and 2023, offering the highs and lows in the process. The second graph displays daily changes in the exchange rates, showing drastic daily changes in the process, such as the highest daily exchange rate, highest gain and highest loss in value by the SSP on the United States dollar. 

The link to the visualisation is Here.

The link to the visualisation showing the daily difference in the exchange rate is given Here

Some insights emerge from the data, which we highlight below:

  • The most significant loss in value for the SSP against the USD was between 12 and 13 October 2020, when it went from 515 to 700 in a matter of 24 hours 
  • The biggest gain in value for the SSP against the USD was between 13 and 14 October 2020 and between 6  and 7 August 2022, when it went from 700 to 550 in a matter of 24 hours 
  • The highest-ever exchange rate was on 24 May 2023, when it stood at 1001 SSP for every USD

How do search terms related to Exchange rates compare in South Sudan for the past 12 months? 

In conclusion, we compare how searches are compared for four related topics: South Sudanese pound, USD, BoSS, exchange rate and FOREX. For this segment, we use Google Trends for the data collection and visualisation. Google Trends is a website by Google that analyzes the popularity of search queries in Google Search across various regions and languages. The website uses graphs to compare the search volume of different questions over time. We use this feature to analyse how the search patterns of the four topics emerge from July 2022 to June 2023. 

The graph below shows interest over the past 12 months. The research shows that USD is consistently the most searched term, indicating considerable interest in USD in the country. All the data was collected using GoogleTrends.

The graph below shows that the USD generated the most interest in the period lasting 12 months, followed by Exchange Rate. In contrast, BoSS and the SSP showed little interest in search volumes in the analysed period.

NB: the data was visualised using Datawrapper. 

This comprehensive analysis explores the South Sudanese Pound’s history and its exchange rate fluctuations against the American Dollar over the past decade. Factors influencing exchange rates, such as inflation, interest rates, public debt, political stability, economic health, balance of trade, and confidence/speculation, are discussed. The four main types of exchange rate regimes—freely floating, fixed, pegged, and managed float—are explained, highlighting their characteristics and implications. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding these determinants and exchange rate systems for businesses, investors, and policymakers to make informed decisions in the global financial markets. We also examined search trends related to exchange rates in South Sudan, indicating significant interest in the United States Dollar while providing valuable insights into the complex dynamics of exchange rates and their impact on economies.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

Fact-check: Resignation letter inauthentic, not from Ruweng Administrative Area chief

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The two-page resignation letter purportedly from Stephano Wieu Malek, Administrator for Ruweng Administrative Area, is false and dismissed as fake information by the area information minister.

Writer: Beatrice Amude Paulino

A resignation letter dated 14th June 2023 addressed to South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, allegedly from Stephano Wieu Malek, Administrator for Ruweng Administrative Area, is false.

The two-page letter circulating in WhatsApp group chats claimed that Stefano Wieu was immediately stepping down from his role and declared allegiance to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO).

What makes this letter inauthentic and, therefore, false?

The document header displays logo colours inconsistent with those officially used in letters issued by the Office of the Chief Administrator for Ruweng Administrative Area (RAA).

Unlike previous authentic letters, the date in this letter is underlined.

A notable difference is that the signature is left-aligned, while authentic letters from the office of the Chief Administrator are typically centre-aligned.

The grammar used in the letter is poor, with multiple spelling errors, including the misspelling of the names of the Chief Administrator.

Image showing an inauthentic letter allegedly from RAA chief

On the 20th of June 2023, the office of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Youths, and Sports Ruweng Administrative Area, Panrieng, made a public statement on its Facebook page dismissing the claim which said that the Chief Administrator of Ruweng Administrative Area, His Excellency Stephano Wieu De Mialek has resigned from the SPLM party and as it’s Chairman in Ruweng- Panrieng.

“This is fake news of the year 2023, and such propaganda is purely the work of the enemies of progress of the Ruweng people,” the statement of the area minister said in part.

An example of an authentic letter from the RAA chief

Conclusion:

211 Check finds the claim in a two-page letter of resignation allegedly from Stephano Wieu de Mialek, Chief Administrator of Ruweng Administrative Area, false. The document is inauthentic and wasn’t issued by his office. 

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

It is crucial to fight against misinformation and disinformation in mainstream and alternative media by avoiding becoming a victim of fake news. To prevent the spread of false information, you must refrain from sharing content you are unsure about or unaware of its origin. Disinformation and misinformation can be incredibly dangerous because they can mislead people and cause harm. For instance, false information on health matters can lead to wrong decisions that can put people’s lives at risk. Therefore, it’s vital to fact-check information before sharing it to promote accurate and reliable information. Visit https://211check.org/ for more information on our fact-checking process, or send us a WhatsApp message at +211 917 298 255 if you want to present a claim. Our team will promptly respond to your request because we believe #FactsMatter.

Fact-check: Did Volodymyr Zelenskyy mock African Presidents in Kyiv?

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The text alleged to have been written and signed by Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, trying to mock African leaders about their African problems, is not authentic. 

Writer: Jibi Moses

A lengthy speech is making rounds on social media platforms, especially WhatsApp, allegedly of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s opening Speech when he met the African leaders in Kyiv on the 16th of June, 2023. 

The text, which does not have a clear source and date of origin, is alleged to have been written and signed by Zelensky, but this is false.

“Opening Remarks by President Volodymyr Zelensky while meeting African Leaders in Kyiv, Ukraine, 2023-6-16,” the text is titled.

“Zelensky to African Leaders: I am happy to host you here in the beautiful city of Kyiv. I know when u watch your TV in Africa, you get to know that Russia has destroyed the entire city of Kyiv according to Russia’s global propaganda machinery. Still, you have moved around Kieve, and you see how beautiful the city is with welcoming people doing their business; however, with imperialists Vladimir Putin dropping bombs..we have been intercepting most of them. Some we have failed,” partly reads the text.

Screenshots of the text being shared on WhatsApp

The document came after South African President Cyril Ramaphosa recently led an African delegation. The leaders were on a mission in Kyiv to mediate peace between the two warring parties, where Russia was accused of attacking Ukraine.

211 Check did an internet search through the mainstream media to find out the exact speech and to validate whether this claim was valid, and below is what we found out.

The Media is awash with clear messages from President Zelenskys’ speech when he met the African leaders on the 16th of June 2023. Reuters, a news agency owned by Thomson Reuters Corporation, reported on the event with a story titled, “Ukraine tells African Leaders no peace talks with Russia,” written by Pavel Polityuk and Olena Harmash.    

“To allow any negotiations with Russia now while the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze everything: pain and suffering,” according to Reuters, Zelenskiy told a joint press conference with the delegation.

A similar report was made by Le Monde, a French daily afternoon newspaper, the leading publication of Le Monde Group, that covered the story with this heading, “Zelensky rules out talks with Russia as he meets African leaders in Kyiv.”

The delegation, including leaders of Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, South Africa, and Comoros, was expected to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday, according to Le Monde and AFP.

While an article by Al Jazeera English, an international 24-hour English-language news channel owned by the Al Jazeera Media Network, stated that Zelenskyy asked African leaders to push Russia on prisoner release.

Other news outlets that reported the story included, among others, Milford Mercury, CNBC, CNN.COM, and The New Times.

Screenshot of a picture of Zelenskiy with the African Leaders.

Conclusion:

211 Check finds that the text alleged to be written and signed by Volodymyr Zelenskyy, trying to mock African leaders about their African problems, is false. The writer’s source and intention are not and can not be traced. However, it can fool the society into believing that it’s true. We advise the public to be cautious when interacting with such social media posts and verify the authenticity of any claims before acting on them.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

It is crucial to fight against misinformation and disinformation in mainstream and alternative media by avoiding becoming a victim of fake news. To prevent the spread of false information, you must refrain from sharing content you are unsure about or unaware of its origin. Disinformation and misinformation can be incredibly dangerous because they can mislead people and cause harm. For instance, false information on health matters can lead to wrong decisions that can put people’s lives at risk. Therefore, it’s vital to fact-check information before sharing it to promote accurate and reliable information. Visit https://211check.org/ for more information on our fact-checking process, or send us a WhatsApp message at +211 917 298 255 if you want to present a claim. Our team will promptly respond to your request because we believe #FactsMatter.

Fact-check: Did Hamdan Dagalo visit Kenya for Sudan’s talks last week?

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Hemedti didn’t travel to Kenya last week. The photo of President William Ruto and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo was taken on 05 December 2022 and used on 9 January 2023

Writer: Beatrice Amude Paulino

The Facebook page Radio Dabanga-211 posted on 14- June-2023 that President Dr Willam Ruto is in action to stop Sudan’s conflict as Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, travelled to Kenya for talks. This claim is, however, false.

Radio Dabanga- 211, a page with 7,700 likes and 14,000 followers on Facebook, describes itself as Entrepreneur and was created in December 2021. The post attracted 75 reactions, 17 comments and 34 shares in just four days. 

“Breaking news. President Dr Ruto is in action to stop conflict as soon,” partially reads the post. 

A screenshot of a post used by Radio Dabanga-211. 

This claim came out immediately after the IGAD member states assembled in Djibouti to discuss the region’s future and the current situation in Sudan, where the member states decided to elect President William Ruto to lead the negotiations of the Sudan crisis, assisted by his South Sudanese counterpart, President Salva Kiir.

Did Hamdan Dagalo meet Kenya’s President William Ruto in Kenya on 14th June? Here is what we found out:

211 Check did a reverse image search on the pictures, and we found that the photographs were first used on Twitter by William Ruto himself on the 10th of January, 2023. This was after a political framework agreement was signed on December 5, 2022. 

 “Kenya fully supports the Political Framework Agreement signed on December 5, 2022, between the Transitional Sovereignty Council and the civilian political actors in the sisterly Republic of Sudan, reaffirming a strong commitment to a peaceful future of their country,” the Twitter thread partly reads.

Other screenshots in the same tweet by President William Ruto. 

Conclusion:

211 Check finds the claim that Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti, was in Nairobi for talks with President Ruto on 14th June 2023 as false and misleading. The images attached to the claim were first used on the 10th of January, 2023, in a tweet by Kenya’s President William Ruto. We advise the public to be cautious when interacting with such social media posts and verify the authenticity of any claims before acting on them.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

It is crucial to fight against misinformation and disinformation in mainstream and alternative media by avoiding becoming a victim of fake news. To prevent the spread of false information, you must refrain from sharing content you are unsure about or unaware of its origin. Disinformation and misinformation can be incredibly dangerous because they can mislead people and cause harm. For instance, false information on health matters can lead to wrong decisions that can put people’s lives at risk. Therefore, it’s vital to fact-check information before sharing it to promote accurate and reliable information. Visit https://211check.org/ for more information on our fact-checking process, or send us a WhatsApp message at +211 917 298 255 if you want to present a claim. Our team will promptly respond to your request because we believe #FactsMatter.

Fact-check: This recruitment exercise is not from NRA South Sudan

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These scams use harmful and phishing URLs to steal valuable information from people. We tell people to be careful when responding to these social media posts and to check the truth of any claims before acting on them.

Writer: Jibi Moses

On 16th June 2023, a post on Facebook claimed that an application was ongoing for a recruitment exercise by the National Revenue Authority, also known as the NRA in South Sudan, but this is false.

The claim has also been shared with a link in WhatsApp groups and private chats by unsuspecting individuals.

“Application is ongoing… hurry now!” partly reads a post on the little-known Info Data Facebook page. This post attracted over 120 reactions, 46 comments and 18 shares.

Screenshot of the Facebook post by Info Data. 

On clicking the link titled “APPLICATION FORM PORTAL,”  one is directed to a platform which claims to be for NRA, with classified jobs and the number of required applications. 

Screenshot of the first page of the link.

Opening the link on a protected gadget warns you not to continue the connection or risk giving your details. Strong anti-virus and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) play a crucial role in protecting us while online.

The link later on demands one to give his name and phone number to get the job. However, after this stage, one is asked to share with at least 15 individuals or five WhatsApp groups. This process lets the malicious link spread so fast as unsuspecting persons think this is the best option to get the job. Unfortunately, at this stage, people’s details are extracted, or this is where we give out our details to scammers.

Further screening on Virustotal, two security vendors flagged the URL as a phishing link and some others as Malicious links.

A malicious URL is a link created with the purpose of promoting scams, attacks, and frauds. When clicked on, malicious URLs can download ransomware, lead to phishing emails, or cause other cybercrime.

Graphically the link is being hosted in the United States of America.

Scammers don’t relax. This year alone, two different scams about jobs from the National Revenue Authority (NRA) on social media have been investigated by 211 Check, as seen here and here. 

Conclusion:

211 Check finds that the advert claiming to be from National Revenue Authority South Sudan is false. These are scams embedded with Malicious and Phishing links intended to steal people’s helpful information. We advise the public to be cautious when interacting with such social media posts and verify the authenticity of any claims before acting on them.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

It is crucial to fight against misinformation and disinformation in mainstream and alternative media by avoiding becoming a victim of fake news. To prevent the spread of false information, you must refrain from sharing content you are unsure about or unaware of its origin. Disinformation and misinformation can be incredibly dangerous because they can mislead people and cause harm. For instance, false information on health matters can lead to wrong decisions that can put people’s lives at risk. Therefore, it’s vital to fact-check information before sharing it to promote accurate and reliable information. Visit https://211check.org/ for more information on our fact-checking process, or send us a WhatsApp message at +211 917 298 255 if you want to present a claim. Our team will promptly respond to your request because we believe #FactsMatter.