Kenya Opens Doors for Private Companies to Import and Resell Electricity Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 2, 2024 ​ As of June last year, Kenya Power served 9.2 million customers, many of whom faced frequent power outages, largely attributed to outdated transmission lines. Kenya is set to revolutionize its electricity sector by allowing private companies to import and export electricity, a move aimed at increasing competition and reducing power costs for consumers. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has introduced draft regulations to permit firms to engage in the electricity distribution market, challenging the current monopoly held by Kenya Power. This policy change will enable firms to procure electricity from neighboring countries, potentially lowering wholesale tariffs and the overall cost of electricity for Kenyan consumers. Under the proposed Energy Electric Power Undertaking Licensing Regulations, 2024, licenses will be available for various activities, including electricity import/export, generation, transmission, and retail supply. This will not only introduce competitive rates but also enhance service delivery and reliability for customers. The initiative is expected to encourage the use of alternative electricity sources and alleviate frequent outages caused by the existing infrastructure's limitations. Kenya's move towards an open electricity market aligns with global trends towards deregulation and increased competition in energy sectors. By allowing market forces to dictate prices and services, Kenya aims to ensure more affordable and reliable electricity for its citizens and businesses, fostering economic growth and sustainability . More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

The alleged Opposition candidate Frank Habineza Concedes Defeat in Rwandan Elections Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 19, 2024 Frank Habineza, opposition leader of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda Kigali, Rwanda - Frank Habineza, the opposition leader and presidential candidate of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda (DGPR), has gracefully conceded defeat following the election held on Monday, July 15. Habineza expressed deep gratitude to the voters who supported him. Incumbent President Paul Kagame secured a landslide victory, receiving 99% of the total votes, which amounted to over seven million ballots. Habineza garnered 38,301 votes, placing him a distant second, followed by Phillipe Mpayimana with 22,753 votes, according to preliminary reports. "Dear Rwandans, I deeply appreciate all those who voted for me as president and for voting for the Democratic Green Party in the Rwandan Parliament. We will continue to strive for the betterment of our country and participatory democracy," said Habineza in his concession speech. This was his second bid for the presidency, having previously run in 2017, also losing to Kagame. The National Electoral Commission (NEC) has indicated that the final election results will be officially announced no later than July 27, with 21.06% of the ballots yet to be counted. Public Reaction and Future Prospects Following his concession, Frank Habineza has received widespread praise from Rwandans for his sportsmanship and commitment to the democratic process. Many have encouraged him to continue contributing his ideas for the country's benefit. His decision not to contest the election process has also been commended, highlighting his respect for the democratic system and his dedication to Rwanda's progress. Observers have noted that the overwhelming victory of President Kagame was expected, given his long-standing influence and the exclusion of several credible opposition candidates from the electoral process. This exclusion has been a point of contention , with critics arguing that it contributed to the unbalanced outcome of the election. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Kenya's Economy Grows by 5.6% in 2023, Driven by Agriculture and Tourism Recovery Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 20, 2024 ​ Kenyan man harvesting tea Kenya's economic growth accelerated to 5.6% in 2023, an increase from the revised 4.9% growth in the previous year, according to Macdonald Obudho, the head of the statistics office. This robust growth was primarily driven by a strong performance in the agriculture sector. The East African nation's economy, heavily reliant on farming, benefited significantly from abundant rains following years of drought. This helped the agriculture sector recover from contractions experienced in the past two years. Obudho noted that the previous year had seen a remarkable growth rate of 7%. In addition to agriculture, the tourism sector also contributed to the economic upturn. Visitor arrivals surpassed the annual pre-pandemic level, reaching 2.087 million visitors in 2023, compared to 2.035 million visitors previously. The resilience and recovery of these key sectors have been crucial in bolstering Kenya's overall economic performance. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Eto'o, Adebayor, and President Macron Net Goals in Charity Soccer Game Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 26, 2024 ​ French President Emmanuel Macron participates in the Varietes Club charity football match at Bernard Giroux Stadium in Plaisir. Charity Football Match at Stade Bernard Giroux Raises €57,500 for Hospitalized Youth A star-studded charity football match held at Stade Bernard Giroux just outside Paris has successfully raised €57,500 for a French foundation dedicated to improving the conditions for hospitalized children and adolescents. The match was orchestrated by the Varietes Club de France, a football club known for bringing together celebrities and former football stars for philanthropic events. The game featured two teams led by notable figures: one team coached by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and the other captained by French journalist Jacques Vendroux. President Emmanuel Macron, alongside French national team manager Didier Deschamps, 1998 World Cup winner Robert Pires, and Ivorian football legend Didier Drogba, played under Vendroux's leadership. Their team emerged victorious with a score of 5-3. The highlights included a hat-trick from Robert Pires in the first half and a penalty successfully converted by President Macron after Pires was fouled in the second half. The opposing team, coached by Wenger, saw impressive performances from Cameroon's Samuel Eto'o and Togolese star Emmanuel Adebayor, who both scored during the match. The event not only showcased the football prowess of former and current stars but also emphasized the sports community's commitment to supporting charitable causes. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Bridging Africa's Digital Divide by Enhancing Fixed Broadband Infrastructure Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 23, 2024 ​ A symbolic repesentation of Digital Economy Foresight for Africa and possible broadband extension As highlighted in the recent "Digital Economy Foresight Africa 2024" report, African nations are significantly trailing G20 countries in digital infrastructure, a cornerstone for economic development. This disparity underscores the urgent need for a robust digital transformation to harness the economic opportunities presented by the digital age. The Urgency of Expanding Fixed Broadband Access While the surge in mobile phone adoption across the continent signals a positive trend, the report emphasizes the critical need for fixed broadband to achieve high-speed internet access and enable effective digitization of businesses. Fixed broadband is essential not just for enhancing connectivity but also for ensuring that internet services are affordable and accessible to all, particularly marginalized communities. Strategic Initiatives for Policymakers To mitigate the digital divide, the report outlines several strategic actions for policymakers: Expand fixed broadband infrastructure to facilitate widespread access to high-speed internet. Enhance affordability by implementing regulatory measures such as price controls on essential digital services and promoting competitive practices among ICT firms. Focus on inclusive digital access by developing tailored strategies to reach underserved populations, including leveraging Universal Service Funds for infrastructure expansion in rural and impoverished areas. Promoting Digital Skills and Financial Inclusion The development of digital skills aligns with the growing demand in the digital economy and is vital for the workforce to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Additionally, promoting digital financial inclusion is crucial as it enables broader economic participation and fosters financial empowerment. Investing in digital infrastructure is not merely about technological upgrades but also about fostering an inclusive digital economy that propels economic growth and bridges the inequality gap. Policymakers play a pivotal role in this transformation, and their actions in 2024 will be decisive in positioning Africa on a path to resilient and inclusive digital advancement. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Controversy Surrounds Afrobeats Star Asake for Alleged Mockery in "Only Me" Music Video Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 7, 2024 ​ Nigerian Afrobeats star Asake In a recent release that has stirred significant controversy, Nigerian Afrobeats star Asake is accused of mocking Christian themes in his music video for "Only Me." The video, which made its debut last Thursday, has sparked widespread debate for its portrayal of the artist in Christian-inspired attire, surrounded by dancers who dramatically collapse as he showers them with money. This depiction has ignited a firestorm of criticism across social media platforms. One user on X voiced their concern, stating, "Asake keeps disrespecting the Christian faith in his music videos," pointing to a growing unease among viewers over the video's thematic choices. In "Only Me," dancers can be seen echoing the song's hook, "we get money," which, while ostensibly focusing on individualism, has been interpreted by some as a satirical jab at certain charismatic religious figures . The backlash has been pronounced, with another social media commentator asserting, "Asake is mocking Christians with his blasphemous music video," highlighting the contentious nature of the visual imagery employed. This incident marks not the first time Asake's use of religious motifs in his work has come under scrutiny. His previous collaboration with Fireboy DML on "Bandana" also drew criticism for its use of Christian symbols, depicting black goats in a church setting, surrounded by people with flames hovering above them. The reaction from Asake's fanbase includes calls for the artist to reconsider his creative decisions, with one fan expressing disappointment: "Shame on you man. I'm a big fan of your music but the depictions in this your latest video are absolutely insane." As the debate continues, responses from Asake's management team regarding the growing controversy are awaited by many. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

China's Tsingshan Commences Production at $1 Billion Steel Plant in Zimbabwe Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 20, 2024 Construction work is continuing at the Dinson Iron and Steel Plant near Mvuma China's nickel giant, Tsingshan Holding Group, has started production at its $1 billion steel plant in central Zimbabwe. Wilfred Motsi, the project director of Tsingshan's Dinson Iron and Steel Company, announced on Thursday that the plant will produce 600,000 metric tons of carbon steel annually in the first phase of its operations. The initial production involves pig iron, a key raw material for steel production, with actual carbon steel production set to begin by July. The duration of the first phase was not disclosed. Tsingshan, one of the world's leading nickel producers, has been heavily investing in Zimbabwe. Alongside the steel plant, the company operates ferrochrome, coking coal, and lithium mining businesses in the country. Additionally, Tsingshan has constructed a 50-megawatt thermal power plant at Dinson. The steel plant will leverage gas from its furnace to meet 20% of its electricity needs and plans to build a solar power plant to further mitigate Zimbabwe's electricity challenges. By diversifying its energy sources and investing in local industries, Tsingshan aims to enhance Zimbabwe's industrial capacity and energy security. The significant financial commitment and strategic planning underscore the company's long-term vision for its operations in the region. This steel plant represents a pivotal development in Zimbabwe's industrial landscape, promising to boost economic growth and create job opportunities, thereby contributing to the broader economic resilience of the southern African nation. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Aggression of the DRC: A new report from UN experts confirms the presence of elements of the Rwandan army on Congolese soil Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Alison Marsh Jan 3, 2024 ​ UN Report Unveils: Rwandan Military Covertly Supports M23 Rebels in DRC Conflict A new, unpublished UN report, reviewed by Xtrafrica, exposes the involvement of Rwandan forces in the conflict in Eastern Congo. This document confirms the presence of Rwandan special forces on Congolese soil, fighting alongside the M23 rebel group. Key evidence includes aerial images depicting soldiers with equipment typical of the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) in combat areas, including Virunga National Park. This follows a 2022 report where UN experts first identified Rwanda's support to M23, including supplying weapons and uniforms. This involvement has significantly impacted the regional dynamics, contributing to increased tensions and conflict in the area. The report details Rwandan troop interventions, joint attacks with M23 on strategic locations, and the provision of military equipment resembling Rwandan army gear More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Kenya's Population to Level Off as Uganda and Somalia Grow sharply. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 9, 2024 ​ image showing a crowd of somalese Kenya is poised for a demographic shift, with fertility rates declining to below replacement levels, signaling a potential plateau in its population growth. In contrast, neighbors Uganda and Somalia are expected to see continued population increases, according to a study published in the Lancet journal. This shift is attributed to a significant drop in Kenya's total fertility rate, from eight children per woman in the 1950s to less than three today, with projections falling to 1.4 by 2100. The global study, part of the Global Burden of Disease, highlights a worldwide trend towards lower fertility rates, with more than half of all countries now below the 2.1 replacement level. For Kenya, this could mean a shrinking population without immigration, in stark contrast to the ongoing growth in Uganda and Somalia. The implications of these trends are profound, potentially affecting socio-economic structures, healthcare systems, and workforce dynamics. Kenya's challenge will be to adapt to these changes, balancing a declining birth rate with the needs of an aging population and a shrinking workforce. Meanwhile, the continued population growth in Uganda and Somalia presents a different set of challenges and opportunities for those nations. As global fertility rates evolve, countries will need innovative strategies to address the accompanying shifts in their demographic landscapes . More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

South Africa's Election Showdown: Who Will Lead South Africa After the May 29 Election? Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 22, 2024 ​ An African National Congress (ANC) supporter waves a Palestian flag during the 112th anniversary celebrations of the founding of the party, at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga province, South Africa South Africa's May 29 election is set to be the most tightly contested since the end of apartheid. Opinion polls suggest the African National Congress (ANC) may lose its majority for the first time in 30 years. The ANC is expected to win the largest share of the vote, meaning President Cyril Ramaphosa is likely to remain in office unless an internal challenge arises if the party performs poorly. If the ANC falls short of a majority, it will need to negotiate a coalition or other deals with other parties. Key Figures in the Election: Cyril Ramaphosa, African National Congress (ANC) Age: 71 Background: Rose to prominence in the 1980s as a union leader; became ANC secretary-general in 1991. Career: Left politics in 1996 for business, then returned to replace Jacob Zuma as ANC leader in 2017 and became president in 2018. Controversies: Faced a scandal in 2022 over the theft of cash from his farm, but denies wrongdoing. Support and Criticism: Known for preserving consensus; criticized for being less effective in implementing reforms. John Steenhuisen, Democratic Alliance (DA) Age: 48 Background: Active in politics from a young age; became DA leader in 2019. Policies: Advocates for economically liberal positions, including breaking up Eskom and loosening labor laws. Public Perception: Faces skepticism about the DA's representation, which he denies, promoting the party's commitment to good governance. Julius Malema, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Age: 43 Background: Former ANC youth leader; founded the EFF after being suspended from the ANC. Policies: Advocates for land redistribution and nationalizing mines. Controversies: Known for his flashy lifestyle; has a distinctive stance on immigration, opposing tighter controls. Jacob Zuma, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Age: 82 Background: Anti-apartheid veteran; served as South Africa's president from 2009 to 2018. Controversies: His presidency was marked by corruption scandals; sentenced to 15 months in jail in 2021 for defying a court order. Current Role: Supports the newly formed MK party; despite being barred from running for parliament, his name will appear on the ballot. Election Dynamics The ANC's potential loss of majority raises questions about the formation of coalitions. Ramaphosa's leadership, Steenhuisen's liberal economic policies, Malema's radical reforms, and Zuma's enduring influence add layers of complexity to the electoral landscape. As South Africa heads to the polls, the outcome remains uncertain with the possibility of the ANC losing its long-held dominance. The election will determine if Ramaphosa continues as president or if new alliances and leadership emerge. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Lyon Sign Ghana Winger Ernest Nuamah on Permanent Deal After Loan Spell Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 8, 2024 Nuamah has signed a four-year contract with Lyon Olympique Lyonnais has secured the permanent transfer of Ghanaian winger Ernest Nuamah from Belgian side Molenbeek following a successful loan spell. The 20-year-old impressed during his time at Lyon last season, leading the Ligue 1 club to sign him on a four-year contract. The transfer fee for Nuamah is reported to be 28.5 million euros ($30.79 million). Nuamah's performance last season showcased his potential, making him a valuable addition to Lyon's squad. The club announced the completion of the deal on Sunday, expressing confidence in the young winger's future contributions. Lyon's decision to invest in Nuamah highlights their commitment to strengthening their attacking options as they aim for a strong showing in the upcoming Ligue 1 season. The transfer marks a significant step in Nuamah's career, offering him a platform to further develop his skills and make a mark in one of Europe's top leagues. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Kenya Airways Suspends Kinshasa Flights Amid Employee Detention Crisis Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 29, 2024 ​ Kenya airways Nairobi, Kenya - In a move reflecting deepening diplomatic tensions, Kenya Airways announced the suspension of its flights to Kinshasa, effective April 30, 2024. The decision follows unresolved issues related to the detention of two airline employees by military authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This development coincides with escalating regional tensions, notably due to the formation of a controversial Congolese military alliance in Nairobi, which includes the M23 rebel group. The airline's employees were detained on April 19 for allegedly failing to complete customs documentation for valuable cargo. Despite a military court's order for their release, they remain in custody, complicating the situation further. The crisis unfolds against a backdrop of increased friction between Kenya and the DRC, following recent political maneuvers. On Friday, Congolese politicians and groups, including the M23 rebels, launched the Congo River Alliance in Nairobi. The alliance aims to unify various Congolese armed groups and political organizations. The inclusion of the M23 rebels, who are active in the eastern DRC and have been implicated in territorial conflicts, has particularly strained relations. This move prompted the DRC to recall its ambassador from Kenya on Saturday, underscoring the severity of the diplomatic rift. The DRC's foreign ministry spokesperson, Alain Tshibanda, announced the recall on the X social media platform, highlighting the contentious nature of the newly formed military alliance hosted by Kenya. Kenya Airways, in its statement, cited the ongoing detention and the broader geopolitical tensions as key factors in its decision to suspend flights. "The safety and well-being of our employees are paramount, and the current diplomatic environment has made it challenging to operate effectively in Kinshasa," said a spokesperson for Kenya Airways. As the situation develops, regional stakeholders are keenly observing the impact on diplomatic and economic relations within the East African Community. Kenya Airways has committed to closely monitoring the situation and resuming flights when conditions permit. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024