#meanwhile ...in the Congo

VIJAY PRASHAD ON CONGO.

A city of two million is under threat of seizure by armed rebels, with thousands abandoning their homes for fear of the genocidal violence that may be unleashed, yet the world’s media - barely bats an eyelid.

As Indian scholar and Marxist intellectual Vijay Prashad points out in this video plea, it’s shocking how the people of Goma - and of eastern DRC generally - are simply being left to their fate. Other conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza grab headlines and mobilise political will, but the Congolese conflict - into its third decade - fails to move Western audiences, never mind the 7 million internally displaced, the 6 million killed, the fact that half the population has no access to clean water and more still none to electricity.

The ongoing conflict has been dubbed ‘Africa’s World War.’ It’s seen the pillage of Congo’s precious resources, such as coltan, gold, copper, timber, diamonds and cobalt (which is used in batteries for global tech giants like Apple and Tesla). Could that be why the conflict is so under-reported?

The plight of Congo should not be forgotten. Please share Prashad’s video plea. Africa and the world rise up!

Rockey Myers got the death penalty after being wrongfully convicted in Alabama.

#gotit

Understanding good credit is essential for financial well-being. Here are **five key things** you should know about maintaining a healthy credit score:

1. **Payment History (35%)**: Your payment history is the most crucial factor in determining your credit score. Always pay your bills on time. Late payments can significantly impact your credit score⁵⁹.

2. **Amounts Owed (30%)**: This refers to your credit utilization—the percentage of your available credit that you're using. Aim to keep your credit card balances low, ideally below 30% of your credit limit. Lower utilization is better for your score⁵.

3. **Length of Credit History (15%)**: The longer your credit history, the better. Maintain older accounts and avoid closing them, as they contribute positively to your credit score⁵.

4. **New Credit (10%)**: Opening new credit accounts can temporarily lower your score. Be cautious when applying for new credit, especially if you're planning a major purchase like a home or car⁵.

5. **Credit Mix (10%)**: Having a diverse mix of credit types—such as credit cards, installment loans, and mortgages—can positively impact your score. However, don't open new accounts just to improve your mix⁵.

Remember, good credit opens doors to better interest rates, loan approvals, and financial opportunities. Regularly monitor your credit report, dispute any errors, and practice responsible credit habits to maintain a strong credit profile³⁷. 🌟

Source: Conversation with Bing, 2/27/2024
(1) What Makes Up Your Credit Score - Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/advisor..../credit-score/what-m
(2) How Is Your Credit Score Determined? - Experian. https://www.experian.com/blogs..../ask-experian/how-is
(3) Why Your Credit Score Is Important - NerdWallet. https://www.nerdwallet.com/art....icle/finance/great-c
(4) What You Need To Know About Your Credit Score | Bankrate. https://www.bankrate.com/perso....nal-finance/credit/w
(5) 9 Ways to Build and Improve Your Credit Fast - NerdWallet. https://www.nerdwallet.com/art....icle/finance/raise-c
(6) 15 credit facts everyone needs to know in 2024 - Lexington Law Firm. https://www.lexingtonlaw.com/b....log/credit-101/credi
(7) The 5 Biggest Factors That Affect Your Credit - Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/a....rticles/pf/10/credit
(8) How Is My Credit Score Calculated? - Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/a....sk/answers/05/credit
(9) What Is a Credit Score? Definition, Factors, and Ways to Raise It. https://www.investopedia.com/t....erms/c/credit_score.

Prepare yourself and loved ones. You've been warned.

#gotit