SARS e@syFile Employer beta testing runs from 24 August to 11 September 2026. Check the 2026 EMP501 interim filing dates and requirements. SARS has opened its 2026 e@syFile Employer beta-testing period from 24 August to 11 September 2026. The test precedes the formal e@syFile release for the Employer Interim Reconciliation filing season in September. The beta version is intended only for selected employers invited to participate. SARS has not published a public beta-download link; access details are being provided separately to approved testers. The current SARS timetable lists the 2026 Employer Interim Reconciliation filing window as 21 September to 31 October 2026. It covers payroll information for the first six months of the 2027 tax year. Important SARS EMP501 dates for 2026 Employers should monitor SARS announcements in case the filing dates or software-release timetable changes. What is the e@syFile Employer beta test? The beta period allows selected employers and payroll stakeholders to test changes before SARS releases the production version for the interim filing season. According to SARS, the beta includes: A new ITREG source code intended to reduce duplicate employee Income Tax registrations Source-code validation changes Continue Reading Full Article GOVERNMENT SERVICES SARS e@syFile Employer 2026: Beta and EMP501 Dates By Wilson Munezero Government Services & Opportunities Expert Wilson Munezero Home Comment Aug 24, 2026 Aug 24, 2026 11 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: SARS has opened its 2026 e@syFile Employer beta-testing period from 24 August to 11 September 2026. The test precedes the formal e@syFile release for the Employer Interim Reconciliation filing season in September. The beta version is intended only for selected employers invited to participate. SARS has not published a public beta-download link; access details are being provided separately to approved testers. The current SARS timetable lists the 2026 Employer Interim Reconciliation filing window as 21 September to 31 October 2026. It covers payroll information for the first six months of the 2027 tax year. Important SARS EMP501 dates for 2026 Event Date e@syFile Employer beta testing opens 24 August 2026 Beta testing closes 11 September 2026 Employer Interim Reconciliation opens 21 September 2026 Employer Interim Reconciliation closes 31 October 2026 2027 annual employer reconciliation 1 April–31 May 2027 Employers should monitor SARS announcements in case the filing dates or software-release timetable changes. What is the e@syFile Employer beta test? The beta period allows selected employers and payroll stakeholders to test changes before SARS releases the production version for the interim filing season. According to SARS, the beta includes: A new ITREG source code intended to reduce duplicate employee Income Tax registrations Source-code validation changes Updated field or validation descriptions Testing of employer-reconciliation processes before the formal September release The beta build is not the general production version of e@syFile Employer. Can every employer download the beta version? No. SARS describes this as a restricted trade-testing exercise for selected employers. The public announcement does not contain an open download link. SARS says the access link will be supplied separately to participating testers. Employers should not download software from unofficial websites or links circulated through unverified messages. If your organisation was not invited to the beta test, prepare payroll information for the live filing season and wait for the official production release. ADVERTISEMENT Can employers submit a live EMP501 during beta testing? No. The beta environment is for testing, not live filing. SARS says the testing application defaults to offline mode and that online functions are disabled. Selected functions and options may also be unavailable in the beta build. Do not treat a beta test or test export as a successful live EMP501 submission. Employers must use the formal production release and approved SARS filing channel during the official filing period. What is the new ITREG source code? The new ITREG source code is intended to help prevent duplicate employee Income Tax registrations. Duplicate registrations can occur when employee identity or tax-registration information is submitted inconsistently. Employers and payroll administrators should therefore review employee identity numbers, Income Tax reference numbers, names and other identifying fields before generating reconciliation files. SARS' detailed Business Requirement Specification should be used for the authoritative technical validation rules. When is the SARS Employer Interim Reconciliation for 2026? SARS currently lists the filing period as: 21 September to 31 October 2026 The reconciliation covers the period from 1 March to 31 August 2026, which is the first six months of the 2027 tax year. During the interim reconciliation, employers reconcile: PAYE deducted from employees Skills Development Levy contributions Unemployment Insurance Fund contributions Monthly Employer Declarations submitted on EMP201 forms Payments made to SARS Employee payroll and tax-certificate information ADVERTISEMENT Who must submit an EMP501? Registered employers required to deduct or account for PAYE must generally submit employer reconciliations to SARS for the applicable period. The process normally includes: An EMP501 reconciliation declaration Employee tax-certificate data Payroll totals for PAYE, SDL and UIF EMP201 declarations and payment information Corrections for discrepancies identified during reconciliation Employers should confirm their specific obligations through SARS or a qualified payroll or tax professional. How to submit the 2026 interim EMP501 Eligible employers will generally use the production version of e@syFile Employer or the relevant SARS eFiling function once the live filing period opens. Before submission: Install or update to the official production version released by SARS. Back up the existing e@syFile Employer database. Update payroll software and apply the latest SARS validation rules. Verify employee identity and Income Tax reference information. Reconcile payroll totals against EMP201 declarations and payments. Correct discrepancies before generating the submission file. Validate the EMP501 and employee tax-certificate data. Submit through the authorised SARS channel. Save the submission confirmation and final reconciliation reports. Employer preparation checklist Employers and payroll teams should prepare the following before 21 September 2026: EMP201 declarations for March to August 2026 Proof of PAYE, SDL and UIF payments Payroll reports for the six-month period Employee identity numbers or passport details Employee Income Tax reference numbers Correct names, dates of birth and contact details Taxable-income and deduction codes Fringe-benefit information Medical-aid and retirement-fund contribution data Employment start and termination dates Current payroll-software updates A secure backup of the e@syFile database What selected beta testers should do Invited participants should: Use only the beta link supplied through an authorised SARS communication Keep the test installation separate from the live production environment where instructed Back up data before testing Test employee-registration and reconciliation workflows Check the new ITREG source code and changed validations Record errors with enough detail to reproduce them Submit feedback through the channel specified by SARS Avoid treating beta output as a live filing confirmation What happens if an employer misses the EMP501 deadline? Late, incomplete or inaccurate employer reconciliations can result in penalties and may delay or prevent the correct processing of employee tax certificates. If an employer identifies a problem, it should reconcile and submit the outstanding information as soon as possible, review SARS notices and obtain professional help where necessary. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Check if SARS Owes You a Refund . Tax and Revenue How to Update Your Banking Details With SARS . Tax and Revenue How to Get Your SARS Tax Number Online . Tax and Revenue SARS Auto Assessment 2026: How to Check and What to Do . Frequently asked questions When does the 2026 e@syFile Employer beta test run? The beta-testing period runs from 24 August to 11 September 2026. Where can I download the e@syFile beta? There is no public beta-download link on the SARS announcement page. SARS says access will be supplied separately to selected participants. Can I use the beta version to submit my EMP501? No. The beta is a testing build with online functions disabled. Use the official production release during the formal filing season. What is the EMP501 deadline for the 2026 interim reconciliation? SARS currently lists 31 October 2026 as the closing date. The window is scheduled to open on 21 September 2026. What period does the interim EMP501 cover? It covers 1 March to 31 August 2026, the first six months of the 2027 tax year. What is ITREG in e@syFile Employer? ITREG refers to employee Income Tax registration functionality. The new source code is intended to help prevent duplicate employee Income Tax registrations. Should employers wait until the deadline to reconcile payroll? No. Employers should reconcile payroll records, EMP201 declarations and payments before the filing window opens so that discrepancies can be corrected early. Official SARS sources Updated e@syFile Employer beta release for trade testing SARS trade-testing letter SARS PAYE filing timetable SARS employer reconciliations PAYE Employer Reconciliation Business Requirement Specification V25.3.0 ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return Use the official SARS checker and 2026 rules to see if you must file an ITR12. . Tax and Revenue How to Check if SARS Owes You a Refund Use your ITA34 and Statement of Account to see if SARS owes you, or if you owe SARS. . Tax and Revenue How to Update Your Banking Details With SARS Change your SARS bank account on eFiling or the MobiApp, then confirm with an OTP. . Tax and Revenue How to Get Your SARS Tax Number Online Get a new SARS tax number or recover a forgotten one on eFiling, SOQS, USSD, WhatsApp or SMS. . Tags SARS Updates SARS Updates South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services South Africa South Africa SARS eFiling SARS eFiling

A reported surrender in Lubero highlights wider security and disarmament pressures in North Kivu. A reported surrender by 13 fighters in Lubero territory has drawn attention beyond the immediate incident, pointing instead to the wider fragility of security and stabilization efforts in North Kivu . According to reports, the men were described as former members of the “Leopard” armed group and were received after laying down their weapons in Kivale on Wednesday, March 11 . Local officials cited in the report said the ex-combatants arrived with two AK-47 rifles, ammunition of various calibres, a tear-gas bomb, and military uniforms. They were reportedly received in Lubero-centre by Colonel Abamungu, said to be representing the territory’s military administrator, alongside local officials linked to the disarmament and reintegration process. The precise details of the group’s command structure and the surrendered inventory, however, still appear to rest mainly on the original local report and would benefit from independent official confirmation. The development matters in a territory where insecurity remains deeply entrenched. Recent reporting from Lubero has documented continued violence, displacement, and pressure from armed groups, showing that isolated surrenders are unfolding in a much larger security crisis . It also fits into a broader pattern of disarmament efforts already underway in the area. In February, another self-proclaimed warlord reportedly surrendered in Lubero, while the P-DDRCS had earlier launched biometric identification and orientation operations for ex-combatants in Beni and Lubero as part of its reintegration framework. That means the significance of this latest handover is not only local: it speaks to the ongoing contest between armed mobilization and state-led stabilization across eastern DR Congo . WAR IN EASTERN DRC North Kivu rebel Surrender Signals Wider Security control By FARDC By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Mar 12, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A reported surrender by 13 fighters in Lubero territory has drawn attention beyond the immediate incident, pointing instead to the wider fragility of security and stabilization efforts in North Kivu . According to reports, the men were described as former members of the “Leopard” armed group and were received after laying down their weapons in Kivale on Wednesday, March 11 . Local officials cited in the report said the ex-combatants arrived with two AK-47 rifles, ammunition of various calibres, a tear-gas bomb, and military uniforms. They were reportedly received in Lubero-centre by Colonel Abamungu, said to be representing the territory’s military administrator, alongside local officials linked to the disarmament and reintegration process. ADVERTISEMENT The precise details of the group’s command structure and the surrendered inventory, however, still appear to rest mainly on the original local report and would benefit from independent official confirmation. The development matters in a territory where insecurity remains deeply entrenched. Recent reporting from Lubero has documented continued violence, displacement, and pressure from armed groups, showing that isolated surrenders are unfolding in a much larger security crisis . ADVERTISEMENT It also fits into a broader pattern of disarmament efforts already underway in the area. In February, another self-proclaimed warlord reportedly surrendered in Lubero, while the P-DDRCS had earlier launched biometric identification and orientation operations for ex-combatants in Beni and Lubero as part of its reintegration framework. That means the significance of this latest handover is not only local: it speaks to the ongoing contest between armed mobilization and state-led stabilization across eastern DR Congo . ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . International Relations Ndayishimiye Backs Leopards After Historic Draw With Portugal . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress What otjize, jewelry, hairstyles, and clothing represent in Himba culture . Tags Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo Xtrafrica News Xtrafrica News DR Congo News DR Congo News RwandanTroops in DRC RwandanTroops in DRC

Discover Seychelles’ best dining spots in 2025 from Creole beach shacks to luxury island restaurants serving fresh seafood and global flavors. Seychelles may be best known for its perfectly Instagram‑able beaches, but behind those palm‑fringed coves lies a culinary scene spicier than a reggae dancehall. The island nation has long fused African, Indian, Chinese, French and British influences into a unique Creole cuisine . In 2025 the dining scene goes beyond buffets chefs are experimenting with craft beer, sustainable fishing and even fire‑breathing volcano stones. Whether you’re craving pasta by the ocean or a beer brewed with island rainwater, here’s your guide to eating like a Seychellois (with plenty of cheeky insider tips). 1. La Scala: old‑school Italian charm One of the islands’ grand dames, La Scala has been serving truffle pastas and seafood since the 1980s . Run by husband‑and‑wife team Gianni and Silvana Torsi, the cosy restaurant overlooks the Indian Ocean and evokes an Italian villa with its tiled terrace and frescoes. It opens only for dinner from Monday to Saturday (7:15 pm – 9:15 pm) , so book ahead and dress smart‑casual. The menu mixes Italian classics with Creole touches think grilled fish with a garlicky Sicilian sauce and the service is famously warm . Expect to spend 450–600 SCR per main course at this fine‑dining spot. 2. Boat House: the buffet everyone buzzes about Across from Beau Vallon beach, Boat House is an open‑air institution where you can fill your plate with over twenty Creole dishes for a set buffet price . The vibe is barefoot casual: diners wander straight in from the sand, reggae tunes drift from the bar and big‑screen TVs show football matches. It’s open daily from 10 am to late and becomes lively at night with locals and tourists . Continue Reading Full Article TRAVEL GUIDE Where to Go for Dinner in Seychelles: 10 hotspots By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Oct 7, 2025 May 15, 2026 11 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Seychelles may be best known for its perfectly Instagram‑able beaches, but behind those palm‑fringed coves lies a culinary scene spicier than a reggae dancehall. The island nation has long fused African, Indian, Chinese, French and British influences into a unique Creole cuisine . In 2025 the dining scene goes beyond buffets chefs are experimenting with craft beer, sustainable fishing and even fire‑breathing volcano stones. Whether you’re craving pasta by the ocean or a beer brewed with island rainwater, here’s your guide to eating like a Seychellois (with plenty of cheeky insider tips). 1. La Scala: old‑school Italian charm Candlelight, coastal breezes, and old-world Italian charm welcome to La Scala. One of the islands’ grand dames, La Scala has been serving truffle pastas and seafood since the 1980s . Run by husband‑and‑wife team Gianni and Silvana Torsi, the cosy restaurant overlooks the Indian Ocean and evokes an Italian villa with its tiled terrace and frescoes. It opens only for dinner from Monday to Saturday (7:15 pm – 9:15 pm) , so book ahead and dress smart‑casual. The menu mixes Italian classics with Creole touches think grilled fish with a garlicky Sicilian sauce and the service is famously warm . Expect to spend 450–600 SCR per main course at this fine‑dining spot. 2. Boat House: the buffet everyone buzzes about Across from Beau Vallon beach, Boat House is an open‑air institution where you can fill your plate with over twenty Creole dishes for a set buffet price . The vibe is barefoot casual: diners wander straight in from the sand, reggae tunes drift from the bar and big‑screen TVs show football matches. It’s open daily from 10 am to late and becomes lively at night with locals and tourists . ADVERTISEMENT You pay around 350 SCR for the buffet and a cocktail; bring extra for their potent rum punch. Tip: arrive early, this place can feel like a beach party. 3. Five Spices: haute cuisine in a casino Hidden inside Club Liberté, Five Spices brings fine dining to the island’s most fashionable casino. The restaurant serves an à la carte menu and sushi prepared by Japanese‑trained chefs; expect beef short ribs glazed with tamarind and sashimi that could make a samurai weep. The space is intimate but glam, with red velvet chairs and gold accents. In April 2025, the restaurant launched a new menu and cocktails (including a beef tataki maki roll). A guest joked on Twitter: “Come for the sushi, stay for the Beef Steak Tataki Maki – it’s so good you’ll forget you’re in a casino ”. Five Spices was also crowned a GTE Awards 2025 winner for restaurants, and Club Liberté tweeted that the honour belonged to its “incredible team and wonderful guests ”. Dinner for two with sushi and cocktails averages 1 500–2 000 SCR, making it ideal for date nights or trying your luck after dessert . 4. Kafé Kreol: barefoot bites on Anse Royale Set right on Anse Royale beach, Kafé Kreol combines Creole flavours with Italian comfort food. It serves wood‑fired pizzas, octopus curry and Italian pastas, plus local sun loungers for after‑lunch naps . The vibe is rustic and family‑friendly, perfect for post‑snorkelling hunger pangs. Don’t skip the coconut gelato or the chilled Seybrew. With mains around 200–300 SCR, this is a mid‑range gem. 5. Del Place: sunset dinners in Port Glaud Del Place sits on stilts over turquoise water in Port Glaud, a setting so romantic you’ll feel like you’re in a perfume advert. The menu mixes European techniques with Seychellois ingredients: grilled fish drizzled in white‑wine butter and slow‑cooked octopus stew. ADVERTISEMENT The restaurant is run by 100 % Seychellois staff and opens for lunch and dinner seven days a week . As the sun sets over the bay, live music drifts from the deck and couples clink glasses of chilled white wine. Expect mains from 350–500 SCR; there’s a kids’ menu too, so families won’t feel out of place. 6. Maria’s Rock Café: cook your own pirate feast A perfect blend of vibrant veggies and wholesome grains.” If you’ve ever wanted to play chef, this jungle‑set café lets you. Maria’s Rock Café is a pirate‑themed restaurant in Anse A La Mouche where diners cook marinated meat, seafood and veggies on volcanic rock slabs at their table . The fun concept is paired with a mini‑art studio where owner John Baptiste sells his paintings. Mains are 250–400 SCR, and you’ll leave smelling like a BBQ but that’s part of the charm. 7. La Siréne: secret grill on a hidden beach For serious bragging rights, trek through a forest or arrive by boat to La Siréne . This eco‑conscious grill near Baie Ternay serves seasonal dishes and vegan bowls, plus snorkelling gear so you can swim between courses . Weekends feature Sunday BBQs with craft rum cocktails, and the low‑impact design uses solar power and recycled materials. It’s open only during the day, so plan a lunch. Prices are surprisingly reasonable (200–350 SCR) given the remote setting – and you’ll feel like the only diner on Earth. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Beyond Giant Tortoises: 10 Overlooked Wildlife of Seychelles . Top 10 Leisure Activities to Do in Seychelles in 2025 . Top 10 Budget-Friendly Accommodations in Seychelles . Top 10 Hidden Gems of Seychelles . Travel Guide Where to Drink in Paradise: Seychelles’ 10 Best Bars of 2025 . 8. Zil Kreol: craft beers by the beach Seychelles’ first craft‑beer garden, Zil Kreol , opened in Mahé in 2024 and has become the hangout for locals who love hops. The beer is brewed on site using island rainwater and local spices, and the garden hosts live music nights . Grab a flight of IPAs and pair it with bar snacks like coconut‑crusted prawns or cassava chips. It’s an affordable alternative to fancy cocktail bars (beers from 60 SCR), perfect for sunset after a day exploring Victoria. 9. The Boardwalk: stylish waterfront dining On Eden Island, The Boardwalk is both a restaurant and a nightlife hub. By day it serves European and Asian dishes with local fish and spices; by night DJs take over and the bar turns into a dance floor . The scene is glitzy yet relaxed expect yacht owners sipping mojitos next to backpackers. The all‑day menu means you can drop in for sushi and stay for party cocktails. Mains run 300–500 SCR; there’s a happy‑hour menu for penny‑pinchers. 10. Anchor Café: nostalgia with margaritas How Vibrant Cocktails Are Redefining Summer Sips Finally, head south to Anse La Mouche’s Anchor Café , a family‑run institution famous for its grilled fish, soft‑serve ice‑cream and frozen margaritas . Its irregular opening hours mean you should call ahead , but when it is open you’ll find a joyous mix of locals and nostalgic visitors. Prices are budget‑friendly (around 150–250 SCR), and the sunset views are free. Island flavours with attitude Seychelles in 2025 isn’t just about palm trees and rum it’s a culinary playground where you can twirl pasta as the waves crash below, grill your own prawns like a pirate, or sip craft beer brewed with rainwater. As a local tourism account cheekily reminded travellers, discovering Creole culture involves much more than beaches it means tasting .So come hungry, come curious, and embrace the flavours, the spice and the sass that make dining in Seychelles unforgettable. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Beyond Giant Tortoises: 10 Overlooked Wildlife of Seychelles Beyond the beach: uncover Seychelles’ secret wildlife stars, from stealthy parrots to vampire plants. . Top 10 Leisure Activities to Do in Seychelles in 2025 From kayaking clear waters to Creole feasts, discover Seychelles’ most exciting 2025 adventures . Top 10 Budget-Friendly Accommodations in Seychelles Proof that paradise doesn’t need to cost a fortune the best Seychelles stays under $150 a night. . Top 10 Hidden Gems of Seychelles Discover Seychelles’ secret beaches, jungles, and wild atolls beyond the typical tourist trail. . 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Todd Tucker requests primary custody of his children amid divorce from Kandi Burruss and challenges their prenuptial agreement. Barely a month after announcing their separation, Todd Tucker, estranged husband of Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burruss, has filed for full custody of their two children. Tucker, 59, submitted a response to Burruss’ divorce petition, stating that their children, Ace, 9, and Blaze, 6, currently live with him most of the time, while Burruss, 49, is frequently out of state for work commitments. According to reports, Tucker is requesting primary physical custody and is also contesting their prenuptial agreement, alleging he was pressured to sign it without legal counsel prior to their 2014 wedding. If the prenup is invalidated, he plans to seek alimony and a full division of marital assets. Burruss and Tucker met in 2011 on the set of The Real Housewives of Atlanta , where Tucker was a line producer. Their relationship progressed quickly, leading to an engagement in January 2013 and a televised wedding in April 2014. The couple built a blended family with Kandi’s daughter Riley and Todd’s daughter Kaela from previous relationships, alongside their two children, Ace and Blaze. Professionally, they partnered on ventures including the Old Lady Gang restaurant chain, a trucking company, and the Bravo reality series Kandi & The Gang . Tucker is a producer known for Don’t Bring Your Man to Atlanta (2025) and The Pass (2023), while Burruss rose to fame as a member of multi-platinum R&B group Xscape and as a songwriter, including for Destiny’s Child’s hit “Bills, Bills, Bills.” Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Kandi Burruss Faces Custody Battle With Todd Tucker By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 4, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Barely a month after announcing their separation, Todd Tucker, estranged husband of Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burruss, has filed for full custody of their two children. Tucker, 59, submitted a response to Burruss’ divorce petition, stating that their children, Ace, 9, and Blaze, 6, currently live with him most of the time, while Burruss, 49, is frequently out of state for work commitments. According to reports, Tucker is requesting primary physical custody and is also contesting their prenuptial agreement, alleging he was pressured to sign it without legal counsel prior to their 2014 wedding. If the prenup is invalidated, he plans to seek alimony and a full division of marital assets. ADVERTISEMENT Burruss and Tucker met in 2011 on the set of The Real Housewives of Atlanta , where Tucker was a line producer. Their relationship progressed quickly, leading to an engagement in January 2013 and a televised wedding in April 2014. The couple built a blended family with Kandi’s daughter Riley and Todd’s daughter Kaela from previous relationships, alongside their two children, Ace and Blaze. Professionally, they partnered on ventures including the Old Lady Gang restaurant chain, a trucking company, and the Bravo reality series Kandi & The Gang . ADVERTISEMENT Tucker is a producer known for Don’t Bring Your Man to Atlanta (2025) and The Pass (2023), while Burruss rose to fame as a member of multi-platinum R&B group Xscape and as a songwriter, including for Destiny’s Child’s hit “Bills, Bills, Bills.” ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Biography KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career . Pop Culture Trends Jessie J Says Cancer Risk Remains Despite Early Detection and Surgery . Celebrity Trends jay-z-solange-met-gala-elevator-incident-new-details . Afrobeats Lilian Mbabazi Misses Stage Appearance at Davido’s Kigali Concert . Justice & Crime Tekashi 6ix9ine Given Three-Month Prison Term for Probation Violations . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Biography KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career Meet Ghana’s KiDi: his age, family, breakthrough, awards and 2026 album . Pop Culture Trends Jessie J Says Cancer Risk Remains Despite Early Detection and Surgery Singer reflects on diagnosis, surgery and emotional moment with her mother after cancer news . Celebrity Trends jay-z-solange-met-gala-elevator-incident-new-details Designer Oscar G. Lopez offers new insight into the 2014 elevator confrontation at the Met Gala . Afrobeats Lilian Mbabazi Misses Stage Appearance at Davido’s Kigali Concert Singer left waiting backstage after planned duet with Kitoko was cut during Davido’s BK Arena show . Tags Musics Musics

Nigerian singer Superboy Cheque reveals how a severe acne battle nearly forced him to quit music before his breakthrough success. Nigerian rapper and singer Superboy Cheque has revealed that he almost abandoned his music career at an early stage because of a severe struggle with acne that affected his confidence and public appearances. The artist made the revelation during a recent interview with Yanga FM Lagos , where he opened up about the emotional toll his skin condition had on him during the early days of his career Cheque explained that the condition deeply affected his self-esteem and made it difficult for him to face cameras and interact with people. “I struggled with acne years back. It was terrible,” he said. “My desperation to cure it led me to buy a makeup that almost disfigured my face. It was embarrassing. I almost quit music.” According to the singer, the situation worsened after he achieved early success in the music industry. Following the release of his breakthrough song “Zoom” and signing with a record label, he realized that public appearances and interviews would become a regular part of his career. Seeking a quick solution, Cheque said he purchased a cosmetic product in hopes of improving his skin condition. However, the product had the opposite effect. “I woke up one morning and realised that my whole face had been damaged,” he recalled. The experience, he said, changed his relationship with cameras and social interactions, making him more self-conscious about his appearance. Despite the setback, Cheque eventually overcame the challenge and continued building his career in the Nigerian music industry. He noted that the difficult period later influenced his creativity and inspired his hit track “History,” featuring Fireboy DML. Today, the singer views the experience as part of his personal and professional growth, saying the challenge helped shape his journey in music. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Superboy Cheque Says Acne Almost Made Him Quit Music By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 4, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian rapper and singer Superboy Cheque has revealed that he almost abandoned his music career at an early stage because of a severe struggle with acne that affected his confidence and public appearances. The artist made the revelation during a recent interview with Yanga FM Lagos , where he opened up about the emotional toll his skin condition had on him during the early days of his career Cheque explained that the condition deeply affected his self-esteem and made it difficult for him to face cameras and interact with people. ADVERTISEMENT “I struggled with acne years back. It was terrible,” he said. “My desperation to cure it led me to buy a makeup that almost disfigured my face. It was embarrassing. I almost quit music.” According to the singer, the situation worsened after he achieved early success in the music industry. Following the release of his breakthrough song “Zoom” and signing with a record label, he realized that public appearances and interviews would become a regular part of his career. Seeking a quick solution, Cheque said he purchased a cosmetic product in hopes of improving his skin condition. However, the product had the opposite effect. “I woke up one morning and realised that my whole face had been damaged,” he recalled. ADVERTISEMENT The experience, he said, changed his relationship with cameras and social interactions, making him more self-conscious about his appearance. Despite the setback, Cheque eventually overcame the challenge and continued building his career in the Nigerian music industry. He noted that the difficult period later influenced his creativity and inspired his hit track “History,” featuring Fireboy DML. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . Today, the singer views the experience as part of his personal and professional growth, saying the challenge helped shape his journey in music. Source: Tribune Online ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Sabrina Carpenter revealed Miss Piggy as her Hollywood idol during The Muppet Show revival, premiering February 4 on ABC and Disney+. Pop singer and actress Sabrina Carpenter has revealed that her Hollywood idol is Miss Piggy, the iconic Muppet character, during the revival of The Muppet Show , according to the source article. Sabrina Carpenter reveals her i… The show, which premieres on February 4 on ABC and Disney+ , marks the return of the long-running franchise nearly 50 years after its original debut by creator Jim Henson. During an on-stage exchange, Carpenter told Miss Piggy that she considers her an idol and said she had modeled much of her personal style after the character. Miss Piggy responded humorously, staying in character with a playful remark. In a separate interview referenced in the program, Miss Piggy jokingly suggested that Carpenter appeared intimidated during filming. Kermit the Frog later added that Carpenter brought strong energy to the production and praised her performance. The revived Muppet Show features appearances from several high-profile guests, including Maya Rudolph, while actor Seth Rogen serves as an executive producer. Source: Geo News Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Sabrina Carpenter Names Miss Piggy as Her Hollywood Idol By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 4, 2026 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Pop singer and actress Sabrina Carpenter has revealed that her Hollywood idol is Miss Piggy, the iconic Muppet character, during the revival of The Muppet Show , according to the source article. Sabrina Carpenter reveals her i… The show, which premieres on February 4 on ABC and Disney+ , marks the return of the long-running franchise nearly 50 years after its original debut by creator Jim Henson. During an on-stage exchange, Carpenter told Miss Piggy that she considers her an idol and said she had modeled much of her personal style after the character. Miss Piggy responded humorously, staying in character with a playful remark. ADVERTISEMENT In a separate interview referenced in the program, Miss Piggy jokingly suggested that Carpenter appeared intimidated during filming. Kermit the Frog later added that Carpenter brought strong energy to the production and praised her performance. The revived Muppet Show features appearances from several high-profile guests, including Maya Rudolph, while actor Seth Rogen serves as an executive producer. ADVERTISEMENT Source: Geo News ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

Learn how a Maasai young man marries, from becoming an elder and choosing a partner to family negotiations, bridewealth, consent and wedding rites. For a Maasai young man, marriage has historically connected two families, livestock, age-set status, adult responsibility and the creation of a household. It does not follow one identical script across Maasailand . The word “boy” is sometimes used casually when people ask this question, but marriage should concern consenting adults. Today, a Maasai man may meet his own partner at school, work, church, in town or through family networks. Some couples retain bridewealth and elder blessings; others combine customary, Christian, civil or Muslim forms. How does a Maasai young man get a wife? Traditionally, he becomes socially ready for marriage, identifies or is introduced to an eligible adult woman, gains her freely given agreement, involves both families, negotiates bridewealth, and completes customary or religious wedding rites. The sequence varies across Kenya, Tanzania, Maasai sections, religions and individual couples. Who Are the Maasai? The Maasai are Indigenous East Africans whose homeland crosses southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. Maa language, cattle keeping, kinship, age sets and public ceremonies have historically shaped community life. Maasai people today are also farmers, students, clergy, activists, business owners and urban professionals. XTRAfrica’s broader guide to Maasai history, culture and modern life explains why one village cannot represent them all. First, He Must Become Ready for Marriage Historically, a male did not move directly from childhood into marriage. He entered an age set with other young men, passed through moran or warriorhood and later became a junior elder. Marriage was normally associated with that movement toward elderhood. UNESCO’s record of Enkipaata, Eunoto and Olng’esherr describes interrelated Kenyan Maasai rites through which young males receive instruction, become morans, take on adult responsibilities and eventually enter eldership. The education includes mentorship, livestock knowledge, family relationships and conflict resolution. XTRAfrica’s article on Maasai initiation, law and reform adds modern context. Ernestina Coast’s comparative study of Maasai men in Kenya and Tanzania found that marriage was historically an elder’s privilege, although the boundary was already weakening in some Kenyan communities during her 1997–1998 research. She observed weddings involving moran grooms. Her wider point is more important than a rigid age: a prospective husband was expected to be capable of establishing and supporting a household (Coast, 2004, pp. 4–5). Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE How a Maasai Young Man Gets a Wife: Marriage Explained By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jul 27, 2026 Jul 28, 2026 14 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: For a Maasai young man, marriage has historically connected two families, livestock, age-set status, adult responsibility and the creation of a household. It does not follow one identical script across Maasailand . The word “boy” is sometimes used casually when people ask this question, but marriage should concern consenting adults. Today, a Maasai man may meet his own partner at school, work, church, in town or through family networks. Some couples retain bridewealth and elder blessings; others combine customary, Christian, civil or Muslim forms. How does a Maasai young man get a wife? Traditionally, he becomes socially ready for marriage, identifies or is introduced to an eligible adult woman, gains her freely given agreement, involves both families, negotiates bridewealth, and completes customary or religious wedding rites. The sequence varies across Kenya, Tanzania, Maasai sections, religions and individual couples. Who Are the Maasai? The Maasai are Indigenous East Africans whose homeland crosses southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. Maa language, cattle keeping, kinship, age sets and public ceremonies have historically shaped community life. A Maasai man photographed in the eastern Serengeti, Tanzania, in October 2006. Credit: Steve Pastor Maasai people today are also farmers, students, clergy, activists, business owners and urban professionals. XTRAfrica’s broader guide to Maasai history, culture and modern life explains why one village cannot represent them all. First, He Must Become Ready for Marriage Historically, a male did not move directly from childhood into marriage. He entered an age set with other young men, passed through moran or warriorhood and later became a junior elder. Marriage was normally associated with that movement toward elderhood. UNESCO’s record of Enkipaata, Eunoto and Olng’esherr describes interrelated Kenyan Maasai rites through which young males receive instruction, become morans, take on adult responsibilities and eventually enter eldership. The education includes mentorship, livestock knowledge, family relationships and conflict resolution. XTRAfrica’s article on Maasai initiation, law and reform adds modern context. Ernestina Coast’s comparative study of Maasai men in Kenya and Tanzania found that marriage was historically an elder’s privilege, although the boundary was already weakening in some Kenyan communities during her 1997–1998 research. She observed weddings involving moran grooms. Her wider point is more important than a rigid age: a prospective husband was expected to be capable of establishing and supporting a household (Coast, 2004, pp. 4–5). Maasai morans perform during an Eunoto ceremony, one of the rites historically associated with movement from warriorhood towards adult responsibilities. Credit: National Museums of Kenya. In a livestock-centred household, readiness could be judged through access to cattle. Today it can also mean income, housing, education, employment or help from relatives. Wealth does not “earn” a woman; readiness shows capacity to share marital responsibilities. Step 1: A Possible Partner Is Identified Older ethnographies often describe parents arranging a son’s match, sometimes before the pair knew each other well. This did not erase individual feelings. Coast documented a Kenyan man whose parents had selected two prospective brides, but he refused and married a Maasai woman he had chosen after both completed secondary education (Coast, 2004, pp. 24–25). A Project FUEL photograph accompanying Anna Sileyan’s account of choosing Rafael after meeting him at a market in Arusha, Tanzania. Photo: Vibhor Yadav, 2021. That case captures a continuing negotiation between family authority and personal choice. A young man may be introduced through relatives, meet a woman independently, or turn a friendship into marriage discussions. Historical sources record beadwork as a courtship gift, but it is not a universal proposal code. XTRAfrica’s study of Maasai beadwork and modern craft shows why context matters. ADVERTISEMENT The woman is not a prize waiting at the end of a male initiation journey. Her agreement is the moral centre of any legitimate marriage. Affection may begin the relationship, but marriage also brings two extended families into a long-term connection. Step 2: Families Examine the Match Once a relationship becomes serious, relatives may consider whether the match fits kinship and generational expectations. Coast recorded a strict rule in her study sites: a husband should not belong to the same age set as the woman’s father. She also noted marriages between Maasai and neighbouring peoples, although her survey analysed Maasai-to-Maasai unions (Coast, 2004, p. 5). A Maasai man wearing a red checked shuka and a broad beaded collar, reflecting the continued importance of beadwork and ceremonial dress in Maasai community life. Credit: To be confirmed. These checks are not identical everywhere. Families may ask about kinship, character, existing obligations, religion, livelihood and where the couple will live. They may consult elders or relatives who know the prospective in-laws. The purpose is larger than approving two individuals. Marriage can create obligations of hospitality, assistance and dispute resolution between households. Relatives therefore want confidence that the connection will be durable. In modern couples, these conversations may look like ordinary family introductions rather than a formal council. Step 3: The Groom’s Family Makes a Formal Approach After the couple and their families are ready, representatives of the man’s family approach the woman’s family. Depending on locality and religion, the delegation may include parents, uncles, respected elders, women relatives or church leaders. They state the intention to marry and begin discussing the conditions and timing. This stage is sometimes described inaccurately as the man “asking the father for a girl.” A better description is a family-to-family negotiation that must include the adult woman’s own decision. Families can bless and support a union; they cannot supply her consent. The exact gifts and order of visits vary. Honey, livestock, milk or other goods appear in documented accounts, but there is no universal list. Families in Kajiado, Narok, Loita, Longido or Ngorongoro may follow different sequences, further shaped by religious or civil requirements. Step 4: Bridewealth Is Negotiated Bridewealth is traditionally transferred from the groom’s side to the bride’s family, commonly through livestock and sometimes other agreed contributions. It should not be presented as buying a wife. The transfer publicly acknowledges a marriage, connects the families and distributes valuable property through the new relationship. Cattle gathered inside a Maasai homestead in Arusha, Tanzania. Livestock may form part of bridewealth negotiations, helping formalise ties between the two families rather than representing the purchase of a bride. Coast found that bridewealth could strengthen a man’s network with his in-laws, while the livestock needed for marriage was one reason economic readiness mattered (Coast, 2004, pp. 5, 10). The number and type of animals are not fixed across Maasai communities or periods. Wealth, local practice, family agreement and the condition of herds all matter. Cash, school expenses or other goods may now accompany or replace some livestock. ADVERTISEMENT Negotiation should establish obligations without reducing the woman to a price. If demands become impossible, marriage may be delayed or payments staged. The recognised relationship and reciprocal responsibility may matter more than one completed transaction. Step 5: The Wedding Makes the Union Public When agreement is complete, a wedding publicly changes the couple’s status. A Wake Forest University anthropology museum account records milk-and-grass blessings, shared honey beer, adornment and a journey toward the groom’s family home. These details illuminate one documented ceremonial pattern, not a checklist followed across Kenya and Tanzania. Women’s work is central to preparation. Female relatives may prepare the bride, assemble clothing, cook, sing and welcome her. The groom’s relatives arrange hospitality, livestock and the household’s reception. XTRAfrica’s article on traditional and modern Maasai foods explains milk, meat and ceremonial sharing. Some weddings retain elder blessings and customary procession while adding church vows, rings, certificates, modern dresses, photography or a reception hall. Others are mainly civil or religious. Cultural continuity does not require every couple to reproduce an older ceremony exactly. Marriage Begins After the Celebration In historical pastoral settings, the bride commonly joined the husband’s homestead or a wider family settlement. A 1970s documentary transcript from the western highlands near the Kenya–Tanzania border recorded a new wife being introduced to the herd and receiving recognised use rights over cattle associated with her household and future children (Llewelyn-Davies, 1980, pp. 4–5). That evidence is geographically and historically specific. Anna Sileyan holds her child, Elisha, after resisting family pressure to marry another man and choosing Rafael, whom she credits with supporting her education. Photo: Vibhor Yadav/ Project FUEL , 2021 Today, a couple may live in a rural homestead, a separate house, a market town or a city. They must decide how to manage work, livestock, income, schooling, children, faith and obligations to relatives. Getting married is therefore not the end of the process. It begins the everyday work of partnership. Does Every Maasai Man Marry More Than One Wife? No. Polygyny is historically documented, but it is neither compulsory nor proof of authentic Maasai identity. Coast’s late-1990s survey found substantial polygyny while also showing that all polygynous marriages began with one wife. Education, livelihood diversification, household independence and the cost of schooling children were associated with men choosing monogamy (Coast, 2004, pp. 7–13). Kenya’s Marriage Act recognises customary marriages as potentially polygamous, while Christian, civil and Hindu marriages are monogamous. Tanzania also recognises monogamous and polygamous or potentially polygamous forms. A couple must understand which form they are entering; tradition should not be used to hide existing commitments. Consent and Adulthood Are Non-Negotiable Kenya’s Marriage Act defines marriage as voluntary, sets the minimum age at 18 and treats a union without freely given consent as invalid (Marriage Act, 2014, sections 3–4 and 11). These rules apply alongside the recognition of customary marriage. Tanzania’s Law of Marriage Act, Revised Edition 2023 also defines marriage as voluntary and prohibits coercion (sections 9 and 16). A community dialogue with reformed circumcisers working towards ending FGM in Kajiado County/ ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Travel Guide Stone Town Travel Guide: History, Food and a Walking Route . Travel Guide Mafia Island Travel Guide: Diving, Whale Sharks and When to Go . African Culture Nyerere vs Ruaha: Choosing a Southern Tanzania Safari . African Culture Tanzania Visa and Entry Requirements: What Travellers Need . Travel Tips Getting Around Tanzania: Flights, Trains, Buses and Ferries . Its republished age provisions still contain unequal older thresholds. However, the Court of Appeal’s 2019 Rebeca Gyumi judgment upheld the finding that those unequal provisions were unconstitutional and that 18 should be the eligible age for both sexes (Gyumi, 2019, pp. 30–34). The unresolved statutory wording makes current legal advice important in individual Tanzanian cases. Community change is also coming from within. Tanzania’s Pastoral Women’s Council supports Maasai women’s forums addressing forced marriage, education and gender rights in northern Tanzania. In Kenya, UNFPA documents dialogues involving Maasai elders and morans alongside protection for girls facing forced marriage. A culturally respected marriage can involve elders, livestock and family blessing. It still requires two adults choosing each other freely. How Maasai Marriage Is Changing Education, wage work, Christianity, urban life, land pressure and smaller herds are changing when and how men marry. A groom may fund bridewealth from a salary rather than cattle alone. Couples may meet far from home, negotiate directly and then invite their families into the process. These changes do not simply replace “traditional” marriage with a foreign model. Many couples keep what gives the union social depth family visits, negotiated gifts, Maa blessings, ceremonial food and community recognition while rejecting child marriage, coercion or the idea that only parents may choose. The clearest modern pathway is therefore not “a boy becomes a warrior and receives a wife.” It is that an adult Maasai man becomes ready for responsibility, forms a consensual relationship, brings the families together and creates a marriage recognised by the couple, their community and the law. Frequently Asked Questions Does a Maasai man choose his own wife? He may. Historical accounts describe strong parental involvement and arranged matches, but individual choice also existed. Today many Maasai couples meet through school, work, church, urban life, family introductions or personal relationships. The adult woman and man must both consent. Must a Maasai man finish warriorhood before marrying? Historically, marriage was mainly associated with junior eldership after moranhood. Coast’s research found that this boundary was already weakening in some Kenyan communities. Current timing varies with age-set participation, education, work, religion and family circumstances. How many cattle are paid for a Maasai bride? There is no trustworthy universal number. The type and quantity of bridewealth vary by Maasai section, family, time, herd wealth and negotiation. Sources that give one fixed total for every Maasai wedding should be treated cautiously. Is Maasai marriage always polygamous? No. Some customary marriages are polygamous or potentially polygamous, but many Maasai marriages remain monogamous. The legal form, religion, personal choice, finances and family plans all influence the decision. Conclusion A Maasai young man does not get a wife through one dramatic ritual. Historically, he moved toward elderhood, demonstrated readiness, entered family negotiations, transferred bridewealth and completed ceremonies that made a new household public. Today the pathway may begin with school, work, church or personal courtship and combine several legal and cultural forms. Across every version, the strongest modern principle is simple: marriage joins families, but it belongs first to the two adults entering it. Age-set status, cattle and blessings can give the union cultural meaning; none can replace the woman’s free consent or the man’s responsibility to build a respectful partnership. Sources and Further Reading Coast, Ernestina. 2004. “ Maasai Marriage: A Comparative Study of Kenya and Tanzania .” Comparative survey conducted in 1997–1998. Court of Appeal of Tanzania. 2019. “ Attorney General v. Rebeca Z. Gyumi, Civil Appeal No. 204 of 2017 .” Government of Kenya. 2014. “ The Marriage Act, No. 4 of 2014 .” Sections 3–6 and 11. Government of Tanzania. 2023 revised edition. “ The Law of Marriage Act, Cap. 29 .” Sections 9, 13 and 16–18. Llewelyn-Davies, Melissa. 1980. “ Maasai Women documentary transcript .” Documentary Educational Resources/WSU transcript, pp. 1–7. Pastoral Women’s Council. “ Rights and Leadership .” Northern Tanzania community programme. Timothy S. Y. Lam Museum of Anthropology, Wake Forest University. “ Maasai Wedding Customs .” UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. 2018. “ Enkipaata, Eunoto and Olng’esherr, Three Male Rites of Passage of the Maasai Community .” UNFPA. “ Redefining Manhood: Why One Kenyan Man Is Breaking Tradition to Stand Up for Girls .” ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Travel Guide Stone Town Travel Guide: History, Food and a Walking Route Stone Town occupies the western side of Unguja, the main island in the Zanzibar archipelago . Travel Guide Mafia Island Travel Guide: Diving, Whale Sharks and When to Go Plan Mafia Island by coast and season, with diving, whale sharks, transport, fees and places to stay. . African Culture Nyerere vs Ruaha: Choosing a Southern Tanzania Safari Compare wildlife, activities, access and costs before choosing Tanzania’s southern safari park. . African Culture Tanzania Visa and Entry Requirements: What Travellers Need Check visa eligibility, passport rules, health documents and Zanzibar insurance before travel. . Tags Visit Tanzania Visit Tanzania Kenya Kenya Tanzania Tanzania The Maasai People The Maasai People

Media mogul Oprah Winfrey recently expressed her immense pride as Bongeka Zuma, one of the first students from her South African school, earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from Stanford University. On June 17, Winfrey shared a heartfelt message dedicated to Bongeka Zuma after attending her graduation. She also posted numerous photos and videos from the event on Instagram. “I’ve attended 22 graduations for all my daughter-girls who came from the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy in South Africa to colleges and universities across the United States,” Winfrey wrote. “This one was extra special. Daughter-girl Bongeka first graduated summa cum laude from Spelman, then earned her master’s degree at Oxford, and this weekend she received her hard-earned Doctor of Medicine from Stanford University.” Winfrey added that “one of the great joys” of her life was witnessing Dr. Zuma walk across the stage. “Knowing where she’s come from, a small community in KwaZulu-Natal, and how strongly she believed in becoming a doctor,” Winfrey continued. “She never gave up, and with the support of good friends, fellow OWLAG sisters, and professors, we all celebrated her achievement with great pride. Congratulations, Dr. Zuma. Well done! Well done!” The first video in Winfrey's Instagram slideshow shows her with Zuma and other “daughter-girls” from the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy in South Africa. Zuma was part of the first graduating class after the school opened in 2007. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 19, 2024 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Media mogul Oprah Winfrey recently expressed her immense pride as Bongeka Zuma, one of the first students from her South African school, earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from Stanford University. On June 17, Winfrey shared a heartfelt message dedicated to Bongeka Zuma after attending her graduation. She also posted numerous photos and videos from the event on Instagram. “I’ve attended 22 graduations for all my daughter-girls who came from the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy in South Africa to colleges and universities across the United States,” Winfrey wrote. ADVERTISEMENT “This one was extra special. Daughter-girl Bongeka first graduated summa cum laude from Spelman, then earned her master’s degree at Oxford, and this weekend she received her hard-earned Doctor of Medicine from Stanford University.” Winfrey added that “one of the great joys” of her life was witnessing Dr. Zuma walk across the stage. “Knowing where she’s come from, a small community in KwaZulu-Natal, and how strongly she believed in becoming a doctor,” Winfrey continued. “She never gave up, and with the support of good friends, fellow OWLAG sisters, and professors, we all celebrated her achievement with great pride. Congratulations, Dr. Zuma. Well done! Well done!” The first video in Winfrey's Instagram slideshow shows her with Zuma and other “daughter-girls” from the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy in South Africa. Zuma was part of the first graduating class after the school opened in 2007. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY When it first opened, the academy received 3,500 applications from across the country, accepting a total of 152 girls. The boarding school, catering to girls in grades 8-12, aims to “raise future leaders who are able to navigate various social and cultural contexts, and who will remain committed to the development of South Africa, the African continent, and the entire globe,” according to the school’s website. Many graduates have gone on to prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Oxford, and, like Zuma, Spelman and Stanford. In 2019, Winfrey spoke about her bond with the girls who attend and have attended the school. “They’re the daughters I did not have,” Winfrey told People. “I never thought that mothering was something for me. I like babies, but I like them like, ‘Hi, baby, OK, now go over there.’ I like children when they can actually speak to me and tell me what the problem is. This is how having children was supposed to manifest for me.” The girls also began to call her “Mom O,” a title she was initially hesitant to embrace . “I did not want their mothers or legal guardians to think that I was stepping in and trying to take over the role their mom holds in their lives,” she said at the time. “I’m very much aware of who I am and what my role is for them.” ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

DRC’s FRIVAO trial moves forward after Constant Mutamba missed a new summons. Former Justice Minister Constant Mutamba failed to appear before the Kinshasa/Gombe Court of Appeal on Tuesday after a new summons in the FRIVAO trial , a case examining alleged embezzlement of funds meant to compensate victims of Uganda’s illegal activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo . According to prosecutors, Mutamba allegedly refused to comply with the summons and made threatening remarks to the officer and clerk sent to notify him. The prosecution argued that his reported condition did not appear consistent with the medical report previously used to justify his absence. The court is now moving to the next phase of proceedings. Prosecutors requested time to prepare submissions on the unanswered summons, while judges continued the substantive investigation by hearing witnesses from Rawbank, the bank through which some disputed transactions allegedly passed. Mutamba’s testimony has been viewed as important because FRIVAO’s interim director previously told the court that some payments were made on instructions from the former justice minister, including verbal directives. Earlier reporting by ACP also said the case had already been postponed after Mutamba’s absence at a previous hearing. FRIVAO was created to manage compensation linked to Uganda’s illegal activities in Congo. The wider reparations process follows a 2022 International Court of Justice ruling ordering Uganda to pay the DRC compensation for damage caused during past armed activities on Congolese territory. Prosecutors allege that more than $50 million may have been misused in the FRIVAO case. Several people have already been questioned, and the court’s next decisions could determine how Mutamba’s continued absence affects the direction of the trial. Continue Reading Full Article JUSTICE Prosecutors Seek Next Legal Steps After Mutamba’s Absence By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 20, 2026 May 20, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Former Justice Minister Constant Mutamba failed to appear before the Kinshasa/Gombe Court of Appeal on Tuesday after a new summons in the FRIVAO trial , a case examining alleged embezzlement of funds meant to compensate victims of Uganda’s illegal activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo . According to prosecutors, Mutamba allegedly refused to comply with the summons and made threatening remarks to the officer and clerk sent to notify him. The prosecution argued that his reported condition did not appear consistent with the medical report previously used to justify his absence. The court is now moving to the next phase of proceedings. Prosecutors requested time to prepare submissions on the unanswered summons, while judges continued the substantive investigation by hearing witnesses from Rawbank, the bank through which some disputed transactions allegedly passed. ADVERTISEMENT Mutamba’s testimony has been viewed as important because FRIVAO’s interim director previously told the court that some payments were made on instructions from the former justice minister, including verbal directives. Earlier reporting by ACP also said the case had already been postponed after Mutamba’s absence at a previous hearing. FRIVAO was created to manage compensation linked to Uganda’s illegal activities in Congo. The wider reparations process follows a 2022 International Court of Justice ruling ordering Uganda to pay the DRC compensation for damage caused during past armed activities on Congolese territory. ADVERTISEMENT Prosecutors allege that more than $50 million may have been misused in the FRIVAO case. Several people have already been questioned, and the court’s next decisions could determine how Mutamba’s continued absence affects the direction of the trial. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas . Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" Tshisekedi says armed groups cannot turn military conquest into political legitimacy, . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% Rwanda faces surging prices at home as US sanctions and tighter external financing add pressure abroad. . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform The three-month process will reach all 26 provinces and seek consensus on peace, cohesion and . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas Kinshasa says students will not restart their studies as temporary measures protect academic records, . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo DR Congo News DR Congo News Justice Justice DRC Politics DRC Politics

Museveni directs fast-track trial for Ggaba suspect as Uganda tests mobile courts after daycare killings. Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has directed the Judiciary to fast-track proceedings against the suspect in the killing of four toddlers in Ggaba, with plans to hold the trial within the affected community. The directive follows last week’s attack at a daycare centre in Kampala that left the country in shock as cited by Monitor report . According to judicial officials, the case could be among the first major civilian trials conducted under Uganda’s newly operational mobile court system, which allows proceedings to take place closer to where crimes occur. The framework was formally introduced through Legal Notice No. 1 of 2026, gazetted in March to improve access to justice and reduce case backlogs. Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo relayed the President’s message, emphasizing that the trial should be handled quickly and in the community where the incident happened so that residents can witness the justice process. The approach reflects a shift toward people-centered justice delivery, particularly in areas without nearby High Court facilities. The attack occurred at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Programme, where the suspect allegedly fatally stabbed four children aged between one and two years. Authorities say another child was injured during the incident, while police moved swiftly to arrest the suspect shortly after the killings. The Judiciary has indicated that the mobile court mechanism will help expedite proceedings, especially in locations like Ggaba that lack permanent High Court infrastructure. Officials say hearings can be conducted in temporary venues such as public buildings or other designated spaces. Religious and community leaders have also weighed in on the incident, with calls for justice to be delivered swiftly and for strict handling of suspects accused of serious crimes. The case has intensified national debate over public safety and judicial responsiveness in high-profile criminal matters. The mobile court initiative, recently introduced by Chief Justice Flavian Zeija, is designed to bring court services closer to underserved communities, including remote districts and urban areas with limited judicial access. While commonly used in military justice, its application in civilian criminal trials remains relatively new in Uganda. Authorities say the Ggaba case will test the effectiveness of the system as the country seeks faster, more accessible justice mechanisms in response to public demand. Continue Reading Full Article JUSTICE & CRIME Museveni orders fast-track trial in Ggaba daycare toddler killings By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Apr 7, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has directed the Judiciary to fast-track proceedings against the suspect in the killing of four toddlers in Ggaba, with plans to hold the trial within the affected community. The directive follows last week’s attack at a daycare centre in Kampala that left the country in shock as cited by Monitor report . According to judicial officials, the case could be among the first major civilian trials conducted under Uganda’s newly operational mobile court system, which allows proceedings to take place closer to where crimes occur. The framework was formally introduced through Legal Notice No. 1 of 2026, gazetted in March to improve access to justice and reduce case backlogs. Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo relayed the President’s message, emphasizing that the trial should be handled quickly and in the community where the incident happened so that residents can witness the justice process. The approach reflects a shift toward people-centered justice delivery, particularly in areas without nearby High Court facilities. ADVERTISEMENT The attack occurred at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Programme, where the suspect allegedly fatally stabbed four children aged between one and two years. Authorities say another child was injured during the incident, while police moved swiftly to arrest the suspect shortly after the killings. The Judiciary has indicated that the mobile court mechanism will help expedite proceedings, especially in locations like Ggaba that lack permanent High Court infrastructure. Officials say hearings can be conducted in temporary venues such as public buildings or other designated spaces. ADVERTISEMENT Religious and community leaders have also weighed in on the incident, with calls for justice to be delivered swiftly and for strict handling of suspects accused of serious crimes. The case has intensified national debate over public safety and judicial responsiveness in high-profile criminal matters. The mobile court initiative, recently introduced by Chief Justice Flavian Zeija, is designed to bring court services closer to underserved communities, including remote districts and urban areas with limited judicial access. While commonly used in military justice, its application in civilian criminal trials remains relatively new in Uganda. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW 4 Patients Recover from Ebola in Uganda as Monitoring Continues . Health News WHY Uganda Marked Martyrs Day in Parish Churches . Public Health Alerts Canada, Bahamas Target DRC, Uganda in Ebola Travel restrictions . Health News Museveni Warns Against Arsenal fan Hype Despite Poverty Struggles . Political Commentary POPULAR TODAY Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . International Relations Ndayishimiye Backs Leopards After Historic Draw With Portugal . Authorities say the Ggaba case will test the effectiveness of the system as the country seeks faster, more accessible justice mechanisms in response to public demand. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Elections Monitoring Uganda bans live coverage of riots ahead of Jan. 15 election Kampala orders ban on live broadcasting and streaming of riots and unlawful processions to curb panic . Political Analysis Museveni: US Strike on Venezuela Is a Wake‑Up Call for Africa Ugandan leader urges East African unity and investment in land, sea, air and space security . 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Kendrick Lamar sets a new Grammy record, surpassing Jay-Z with 27 awards after wins at the 2026 ceremony in Los Angeles. According to the source article , American rapper Kendrick Lamar made Grammy history on Sunday night after becoming the most awarded hip-hop artist of all time at the 2026 Grammy Awards, surpassing the long-held record previously set by Jay-Z. Kendrick Lamar yakuyeho agahigo… Lamar reached a total of 27 Grammy Awards after winning Best Rap Album for GNX , overtaking Jay-Z, who had accumulated 25 wins. The achievement places Lamar at the top of hip-hop artists in Grammy history. During the ceremony, Lamar won five awards , including Record of the Year for Luther , a collaboration with SZA. He also claimed Best Rap Song and added another Best Rap Album trophy, extending his career total following multiple wins at last year’s ceremony. While accepting his awards, Lamar emphasized the endurance of hip-hop culture, stating that the genre remains deeply connected to its community and identity. The 68th Grammy Awards were held on February 1, 2026 , at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California . The event featured moments of social commentary, with several artists addressing humanitarian and immigration-related issues in the United States. Billie Eilish won Song of the Year for Wildflower and used her speech to speak against injustice, while Olivia Dean , who claimed Best New Artist , highlighted the contributions and resilience of immigrant communities. Other notable winners included Lady Gaga , who earned awards for Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Dance-Pop Recording , and Steven Spielberg , who achieved EGOT status after winning Best Music Film for the documentary Music for John Williams . The ceremony also featured tribute performances honoring music legends, including Ozzy Osbourne, D’Angelo, and Roberta Flack. Several high-profile nominees, such as Justin Bieber and Sabrina Carpenter, were nominated but did not take home awards this year. Last year’s Album of the Year winner was Beyoncé, who secured the award for the first time in her career. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Kendrick Lamar Becomes Most Awarded Rapper in Grammy History By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 2, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: According to the source article , American rapper Kendrick Lamar made Grammy history on Sunday night after becoming the most awarded hip-hop artist of all time at the 2026 Grammy Awards, surpassing the long-held record previously set by Jay-Z. Kendrick Lamar yakuyeho agahigo… Lamar reached a total of 27 Grammy Awards after winning Best Rap Album for GNX , overtaking Jay-Z, who had accumulated 25 wins. The achievement places Lamar at the top of hip-hop artists in Grammy history. During the ceremony, Lamar won five awards , including Record of the Year for Luther , a collaboration with SZA. He also claimed Best Rap Song and added another Best Rap Album trophy, extending his career total following multiple wins at last year’s ceremony. ADVERTISEMENT While accepting his awards, Lamar emphasized the endurance of hip-hop culture, stating that the genre remains deeply connected to its community and identity. The 68th Grammy Awards were held on February 1, 2026 , at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California . The event featured moments of social commentary, with several artists addressing humanitarian and immigration-related issues in the United States. Billie Eilish won Song of the Year for Wildflower and used her speech to speak against injustice, while Olivia Dean , who claimed Best New Artist , highlighted the contributions and resilience of immigrant communities. ADVERTISEMENT Other notable winners included Lady Gaga , who earned awards for Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Dance-Pop Recording , and Steven Spielberg , who achieved EGOT status after winning Best Music Film for the documentary Music for John Williams . The ceremony also featured tribute performances honoring music legends, including Ozzy Osbourne, D’Angelo, and Roberta Flack. Several high-profile nominees, such as Justin Bieber and Sabrina Carpenter, were nominated but did not take home awards this year. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . Last year’s Album of the Year winner was Beyoncé, who secured the award for the first time in her career. Source: InyaRwanda.com ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

Rwanda's army is occupying Congo, looting minerals, and committing war crimes under the cover of M23 rebels. The UN has exposed it all In 2025, the conflict in eastern Congo reached an alarming tipping point, not just due to rebel gains, but because of direct and sustained military operations by the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF). While Rwanda continues to deny involvement, the latest UN Group of Experts Report on the DRC paints a stark picture involved Rwanda's and M23's war crimes. Rwanda is not just an enabler of violence in the Congo; it is an active combatant and benefactor of the war. This investigation explores five pillars of Rwanda’s direct involvement, exposing the systemic violations of international law and their catastrophic impact on civilians and regional peace. 1. Illegal Deployment of Rwandan Troops The RDF has engaged in systematic and repeated incursions into Congolese territory, not as a rogue actor, but under high-level state direction. The report provides damning evidence that between January and February 2025 alone, over 6,000 RDF troops were operating inside North and South Kivu, with reinforcements brought in from Rwanda to capture major cities like Goma and Bukavu Far from covert operations, the RDF’s occupation involved high-tech warfare: airstrikes, armed drones, short-range air defense systems, and jamming of GPS systems, often disrupting humanitarian and civilian flights These invasions violate Article 2(4) of the UN Charter and constitute what the UN calls “ acts of aggression. ” Rwanda’s assertion that it's defending itself from the FDLR is contradicted by the sheer scale and scope of these invasions, more about control than defense. 2. Command and Control Over M23 Rebels The M23 rebel group, or AFC/M23 as currently structured, is not acting independently. Intercepted communications, verified interviews, and drone footage confirm that Rwandan generals are issuing direct orders to M23 battlefield units, including instructions on when to seize or withdraw from territory Key Rwandan military figures involved in command operations include: a Sanctioned Gen. James Kabarebe – long-time M23 architect Continue Reading Full Article Rwanda’s Direct Role in Congo’s Conflict: 2025 UN Reports on DRC By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jul 14, 2025 May 15, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: In 2025, the conflict in eastern Congo reached an alarming tipping point, not just due to rebel gains, but because of direct and sustained military operations by the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF). While Rwanda continues to deny involvement, the latest UN Group of Experts Report on the DRC paints a stark picture involved Rwanda's and M23's war crimes. Rwanda is not just an enabler of violence in the Congo; it is an active combatant and benefactor of the war. This investigation explores five pillars of Rwanda’s direct involvement, exposing the systemic violations of international law and their catastrophic impact on civilians and regional peace. 1. Illegal Deployment of Rwandan Troops The RDF has engaged in systematic and repeated incursions into Congolese territory, not as a rogue actor, but under high-level state direction. The report provides damning evidence that between January and February 2025 alone, over 6,000 RDF troops were operating inside North and South Kivu, with reinforcements brought in from Rwanda to capture major cities like Goma and Bukavu Far from covert operations, the RDF’s occupation involved high-tech warfare: airstrikes, armed drones, short-range air defense systems, and jamming of GPS systems, often disrupting humanitarian and civilian flights These invasions violate Article 2(4) of the UN Charter and constitute what the UN calls “ acts of aggression. ” Rwanda’s assertion that it's defending itself from the FDLR is contradicted by the sheer scale and scope of these invasions, more about control than defense. ADVERTISEMENT 2. Command and Control Over M23 Rebels The M23 rebel group, or AFC/M23 as currently structured, is not acting independently. Intercepted communications, verified interviews, and drone footage confirm that Rwandan generals are issuing direct orders to M23 battlefield units, including instructions on when to seize or withdraw from territory Key Rwandan military figures involved in command operations include: a Sanctioned Gen. James Kabarebe – long-time M23 architect a sanctioned Gen. Ruki Karusis i – RDF Special Forces commander Gen. Vincent Nyakarundi – Army Chief of Staff Gen. Patrick Karuretwa – military judge overseeing M23 coordination This vertical command structure nullifies the idea that M23 is a Congolese-born rebellion. It is, in effect, a shadow army of Rwanda, operating under Kigali’s strategic direction. 3. Mineral Looting and Cross-Border Smuggling Once territories fall under M23-RDF control, they are stripped for resources. The UN report outlines a clear pattern: coltan, gold, and cassiterite are extracted in sites like Rubaya and Kalehe, then smuggled to Rwanda through formal border crossings like the Grande Barrière and Ruzizi I, often at night to avoid detection Fake documentation is used to make these “blood minerals” appear Rwandan in origin. In one documented week alone, 195 tons of minerals crossed into Rwanda via coordinated truck shipments ADVERTISEMENT These smuggled minerals are then mixed with Rwanda’s own output and sold into global markets, effectively laundering conflict resources into legitimate supply chains. It’s a sophisticated operation that compromises international traceability schemes like ITSCI. 4. Arms Transfers in Violation of UN Sanctions Despite a UN arms embargo, Rwanda has continued to supply M23 with: Armed drones (e.g., TB2 Bayraktar ) SHORAD air-defense systems (e.g., Yitian TL-6) Uniforms and ammunition with serials removed to hide origin Notably, guided missiles fired from RDF positions have struck UN peacekeepers and killed civilians in refugee camps and hospitals. These targeted strikes, including a missile that killed a MONUSCO peacekeeper in Sake, are considered war crimes under international law 5. Crimes Against Civilians and Peacekeepers Where RDF and M23 forces go, atrocities follow. The UN documented: Extrajudicial executions (200+ civilians in Goma alone) see the latest Human Watch report on documented war crimes by M23 crimes. Mass torture, rape, and kidnappings Shelling of IDP camps and hospitals House-to-house raids and enforced disappearances Targeted killings of civil society leaders and journalists The RDF and M23 also conducted armed hospital raids, dragging out wounded civilians and suspected soldiers, some of whom were executed within the compounds ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW Kahuzi-Biega National Park: Land of Gorillas, Volcanoes & Wild Harmony . National Park Visit Virunga National Park – Congo’s Crown Jewel of Nature & Wildlife . National Park Denise Nyakeru Foundation Awards Top Students in Excellentia 2025 . Education EXETAT 2025: Congo Digitizes Exams with AI and Blockchain Tools . Education POPULAR TODAY War in Eastern DRC Masisi fighting points to renewed pressure in Osso Banyungu . Wild Life Growing Wildlife Trafficking Targets Even Africa’s Smallest Species . Justice & Crime Rubaya drone strikes shift North Kivu battlefield as M23 leader killed . 2025 UN Report on DRC UN: M23 and Rwanda Committed War Crimes in Congo, Says Report . 2025 UN Report on DRC Rwanda’s Secret War Tactics in Congo: Spies, Smuggling, Drones . When UN investigators attempted to access these areas, they were threatened, blocked, or misled, with M23 forces cleaning up bodies and sanitizing evidence before arrival. This systematic obstruction is designed to erase the paper trail of war crimes. What This Means for Congo and the World This is not a proxy war. It is a state-sponsored occupation with geopolitical ambitions. Rwanda’s objectives, as confirmed by UN sources, include: Securing mineral wealth Installing a loyal political order Creating an autonomous Rwandan-aligned buffer zone in Eastern DRC The implications are massive: Humanitarian catastrophe: Over 700,000 displaced in Goma alone. Threat to UN credibility: Peacekeepers under fire from a UN-contributing state (Rwanda). Global supply chain risks: Conflict minerals laundered into clean markets. A Peace Deal With No Peace Any future agreement between Rwanda and the DRC must start with accountability. The evidence is no longer ambiguous. Rwanda’s military, acting under high-level state orders, has violated Congolese sovereignty, fueled rebel war crimes, and exploited natural resources under the barrel of a gun. To ignore this is to legitimize aggression as diplomacy. Sources: UN Group of Experts on the DRC – Final Report, 6 May 2025 ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tina Salama Educates Kinshasa Students on DRC-Rwanda Peace Deal Presidential Spokesperson Tina Salama visits ISSKIN to educate students on peace efforts . Landmarks The Congo River: Africa’s Deepest and Most Powerful River Discover the Congo River, Africa’s deepest and most powerful river. Explore its course..... . Landmarks Top 10 Natural Wonders of the Congo Discover the Top 10 Natural Wonders of the Congo, including gorillas, volcanoes, rivers..... . Justice Breaking: Kabila Faces Historic Trial Over M23 Crimes and High Treason Former President Joseph Kabila faces trial in the DRC for high treason, M23 atrocities, . Tags 2025 UN report on Congo conflict 2025 UN report on Congo conflict DR.Congo DR.Congo M23 Conflict Updates M23 Conflict Updates Kagame Crimes Kagame Crimes