Mudavadi emphasizes the necessity of passing the Finance Bill 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 23, 2024 Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has emphasized that the Finance Bill 2024 must pass in the National Assembly to ensure Kenya's political stability. Mudavadi warned that rejecting the bill would equate to a vote of no confidence, potentially leading to President William Ruto's ouster from power. He noted that such an outcome would trigger a political crisis, damaging Kenya's international reputation. "The finance bill is the foundation of the government. Internationally, if the bill fails, the net effect will be the government being removed from power. It is equal to a vote of no confidence in a government. It is not a joke. It is not an ordinary matter. If a finance bill is rejected by any government, fresh elections are called. Don't take it lightly," said Mudavadi during a working tour in Baringo on Friday, June 21. His remarks come amid widespread protests against the Finance Bill 2024 , with many Kenyans arguing that the bill contains oppressive tax clauses. Despite the opposition, Mudavadi insists that passing the bill is crucial for the country's governance. However, lawyer Otiende Amollo has argued that rejecting the bill would not impact the government's ability to collect revenue. Should the Finance Bill 2024 be voted down, the Finance Act 2023, signed into law by President Ruto last year, would remain in force. 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

Kenyan Policeman Shoots Magistrate in Nairobi Courtroom Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 14, 2024 ​ A senior Kenyan police officer was fatally shot after opening fire on Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti in a Nairobi court. The incident occurred shortly after Magistrate Kivuti ruled to cancel the bail of the officer's wife, who had absconded. Chief Inspector Samson Kipchirchir Kipruto, in charge of a police station in Londiani, western Kenya, was angered by the decision and shot Magistrate Kivuti, injuring her in the hip. Immediate response from other officers in the courtroom resulted in Kipruto being shot dead. In the chaos, three other officers sustained injuries and are receiving treatment along with Magistrate Kivuti. The judiciary explained that the magistrate had revoked the bond of an accused person who had failed to appear in court and provide satisfactory explanations. Kipruto, the husband of the accused, was present in court for undisclosed reasons and reacted violently to the ruling. The shooting has shocked Kenyans, as it is unprecedented for such an incident to occur within a courtroom, despite past accusations of police involvement in extrajudicial killings. The judiciary has pledged to enhance security measures to ensure the safety of judicial staff and court users. Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, Winfridah Mokaya, expressed wishes for Magistrate Kivuti's swift recovery and extended condolences to the family of the deceased officer. The national police service has launched an investigation to uncover the circumstances leading to the shooting. 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

Tapsoba Urges Commitment to Elevate Burkina Faso's National Pride Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Jun 17, 2024 Bundesliga champion with Bayer Leverkusen, Edmond Tapsoba, now sets his sights on making World Cup history. Instagram:@edmondtapsoba Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba is dreaming big, hoping to guide Burkina Faso to their first-ever FIFA World Cup™ qualification. After four rounds of CAF qualifying, the West African nation is currently third in Group A. Following his call-up for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ qualifiers, Tapsoba received a hero's welcome upon arriving in Ouagadougou. The 25-year-old had just completed a stellar season with Bayer Leverkusen, helping his club achieve an unbeaten domestic season, winning the Bundesliga and German Cup double, and finishing as runners-up in the UEFA Europa League. "I want to give back all the happiness my people give me," Tapsoba shared in an exclusive interview with FIFA. "They never stop supporting and encouraging me, even in difficult times." Nicknamed "Zaksoba," meaning "the head of the house," Tapsoba aspires to lead Burkina Faso to their first FIFA World Cup™. "We’re dreaming about it and giving ourselves the means to get there," he stated, emphasizing the importance of concentration and learning from previous generations. Tapsoba has exchanged ideas with veteran players like Jonathan Pitroipa, Aristide Bance, and Djakaridja Kone, reflecting on the near-miss in the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign. "Our brothers came so close to qualifying but came up against a great Algerian team," he lamented. "The country deserves to again experience that feeling, but in a more prolonged way." After the 2023 CAF Africa Cup of Nations, where Burkina Faso reached the knockout phase, the team made strategic changes. Brama Traore, former coach of the U-20 and U-23 teams, was appointed head coach in March. Tapsoba praised Traore's approach, stating, "He’s a coach who puts discipline at the heart of our game and knows how to bang his fist on the table when he has to." Despite recent setbacks – a 2-1 loss to Egypt and a 2-2 draw with Sierra Leone – Burkina Faso remains in the top three of their section. "We knew when we set our goal that it wasn't going to be easy, but we're still alive," Tapsoba said confidently. "The road to North America is a long one, and I remain confident in the abilities of my team." With determination and strategic focus, Tapsoba and his teammates are committed to making Burkina Faso proud on the global stage. 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

Fintech Innovators Collaborate with DRC Government to Set Industry Benchmarks Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 26, 2024 ​ fintech firms in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) In an ambitious move to propel financial inclusivity, several leading fintech firms in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have joined forces with the government, forging the Congolese Fintech Network (CFN). This collaboration aims to streamline the fintech ecosystem, fostering a cooperative environment that not only enhances investment accessibility but also promotes efficient information exchange within the sector. Joel Tshilumba, a CFN board member, emphasized the government's pivotal role in this initiative, highlighting efforts towards establishing robust communication channels for mutual benefit. The network, which includes fintech pioneers like MaishaPay and Velex Advisory, alongside heavyweights such as Ecobank, Deloitte, and PWC, is poised to elevate the DRC's fintech landscape to new heights. The fintech sector in Congo has witnessed commendable growth, with Tuma's record-breaking $500,000 funding round underscoring the industry's potential. Despite these strides, financial inclusion remains a pressing challenge, with the inclusion rate standing at 38.5% in 2022. The CFN and the government are setting ambitious targets to boost this rate to 55% by 2028, leveraging the network's advocacy for a pro-innovation regulatory framework. This initiative is part of a broader trend in Africa where startups are increasingly collaborating with governments to establish industry standards, as seen in Nigeria's startup law. Such partnerships are crucial for shaping policies that not only stimulate investment and competition but also prioritize financial inclusivity by introducing innovative solutions for the underserved. Highlighting the CFN's proactive approach, Tshilumba announced the inaugural Congo Fintech Week slated for May. This event will serve as a platform for unveiling progress reports and strategies aimed at enhancing financial inclusion. Additionally, the CFN plans to extend its reach by establishing branches in Kinshasa, Goma, Lubumbashi, and Matadi, further solidifying its commitment to reshaping Congo's fintech ecosystem . 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 Red Cross Vehicles Attacked, Staff Injured During Anti-Tax Protests Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 26, 2024 ​ Kenya Red Cross vehicles were attacked, and staff injured during recent anti-tax protests, the organization reported on Tuesday. The Kenya Red Cross emphasized the importance of safety and access for its personnel to deliver life-saving interventions, noting that their humanitarian efforts are severely hindered without these assurances. In a statement, the organization stressed the urgency of ensuring their operations continue uninterrupted, stating, "We can't provide life-saving interventions without access and safety for our staff and volunteers. It is crucial that we are granted access to continue our humanitarian efforts without hindrance." The statement did not specify the perpetrators behind the attacks on their vehicles or the injuries sustained by their staff and volunteers. 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

PSG Accuses Kylian Mbappe of Lying Amid Real Madrid Transfer Drama Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 5, 2024 Luis Enrique and sporting director Luis Campos PSG has accused Kylian Mbappe of dishonesty amid ongoing legal disputes, following his high-profile transfer to Real Madrid. Mbappe claimed that PSG chiefs “violently” told him he would no longer play for the club after he announced his intention to leave at the end of the season. He credited head coach Luis Enrique and sporting director Luis Campos with “saving” his career. Mbappe described his move to Real Madrid as an “immense pleasure” and a “dream come true.” However, PSG has hit back, accusing the star of lacking class. Sources refuted Mbappe's claims, stating that PSG president Nasser Al Khelaifi “never dictated” team decisions. The relationship between Mbappe and PSG is reportedly “completely broken,” with ongoing conflicts over unpaid salaries and a disputed loyalty bonus. The legal battle may escalate to the LFP Legal Commission. 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

M3nsa Declines Grammy Africa Award: "Our Music Transcends Borders" Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Jun 17, 2024 Ghanaian musician M3nsa has voiced his opposition to the Grammy Awards' expansion into Africa, arguing that African music already enjoys global recognition and does not require a separate awards ceremony. Instagram:@m3nsa In a recent interview with Francis Abban on Morning Starr, Ghanaian musician M3nsa expressed his disapproval of the Grammy Awards' expansion into Africa. He argued that African music, already recognized for its global quality, does not need a separate awards ceremony. M3nsa believes that creating an "African version" of the Grammys segregates and relegates African music to a secondary status. "If the music we are doing is equally as good as everyone’s music, then invite us to the main event, let’s get done with it. That's what people want to hear," M3nsa stated. "When they start sectioning this, it becomes a ‘no colours’ situation. We don’t need an African version of the Grammy. When the music we do extends globally, personally. I don’t expect this, but maybe there is a deeper thinking behind it." M3nsa’s comments come in response to the Recording Academy's announcement to establish an African version of the Grammy Awards. The initiative aims to increase the Academy's influence in the rapidly growing African music industry. The inaugural Grammy Africa Awards are slated for 2027 or 2028, with Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa as the founding host countries. Despite the excitement surrounding Grammy Africa, Ghana did not fulfill the requirements to join the ranks of the founding host countries. As a result, while Ghanaian artists remain eligible for nominations and participation, the country misses out on the significant opportunities and prestige that come with being a founding member and host. A spokesperson highlighted, “While Ghanaian artistes will still be eligible for nominations and participation in the Grammy Africa Awards, the country will miss out on the significant opportunities and prestige that come with being a founding member and host.” M3nsa's perspective sheds light on the broader conversation about equal recognition for African music on the global stage. As the Recording Academy moves forward with its plans, the debate continues about the best ways to honor and promote African musical talent . 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: The Fiber Optic Leap Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Jun 8, 2024 ​ Despite significant investments in Africa's digital infrastructure by tech giants like Google and Meta, many Africans still face slow internet speeds and high data costs. Google's first cloud data center in Johannesburg, South Africa, operational since January, marks a major milestone in this transformation. Tech Giants Investing in Africa Tevin Tafese, a data scientist at the German Institute of Global and Area Studies (GIGA), highlights the business potential seen by US tech giants. Google's $1 billion commitment in 2022 to Africa’s digital transformation includes the Umoja project, the first fiber optic cable linking Africa to Australia. This cable will traverse Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, promising faster, cheaper internet. Leapfrogging Traditional Technology Africa's internet infrastructure development has bypassed traditional landlines, jumping straight to mobile and fiber optic technologies. This "leapfrogging" is evident in countries like South Africa, where mobile networks dominate over landlines. Digital Inequality Persists Despite these advances, digital inequality remains a challenge. Anriette Esterhuysen from Johannesburg's Association for Progressive Communications (APC) points out that while investments increase capacities, they do not necessarily bridge the digital divide. Those without access, devices, or skills remain marginalized. High Costs of Internet Access Sub-Saharan Africa has the world's highest mobile data prices, exacerbating the digital divide. The UN Broadband Commission aims to reduce broadband costs below 2% of monthly gross national income by 2025, but this target remains distant for many African countries. Divine Puplampu, a software developer in Ghana, criticizes the high cost of data, suggesting government tariffs are partly to blame. Similarly, in Mozambique, protests have erupted over high internet costs. The Road Ahead For Africa to become a digital hub, governments must support infrastructure development and reduce costs. This will not only empower individuals but also facilitate broader socio-economic development across the continent. While significant strides are being made in improving Africa's digital infrastructure, challenges remain in achieving affordable and widespread internet access. Continued investment and supportive government policies are crucial to bridging the digital divide and unlocking the continent’s digital potential. 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 Extends Military Deployment in Mozambique and Congo Amid Ongoing Conflicts. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 24, 2024 ​ Pretoria, South Africa — In a significant announcement made on Wednesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that South Africa will extend its military presence in the conflict-affected regions of Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The decision underscores South Africa's ongoing commitment to regional stability and peacekeeping efforts. Continued Peacekeeping in Eastern Congo The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will maintain its deployment of 1,198 personnel in eastern Congo. These troops are an integral part of the United Nations peacekeeping force, which plays a crucial role in assisting the DRC government's efforts to combat rebel factions and maintain regional security. This extension, though for an unspecified duration, highlights the challenging security dynamics in the Great Lakes region and the crucial role of international peacekeeping missions. Support Against Extremism in Mozambique Similarly, the SANDF will continue its operations in northern Mozambique with 1,495 military personnel. Since 2021, South African forces have been instrumental in supporting the Mozambican government's battle against violent extremism. The region has witnessed significant disturbances due to extremist activities that threaten the stability and security of Southern Africa. Domestic Scrutiny of Overseas Deployments This announcement comes at a time when South Africa's overseas military engagements have drawn increasing attention and criticism domestically. Earlier this year, the tragic loss of two SANDF soldiers and injuries to three others due to a mortar bomb attack in Congo raised serious concerns about the preparedness and safety of South African troops abroad. The main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, has openly criticized President Ramaphosa’s strategy, accusing the administration of sending troops into hazardous war zones without adequate preparation. The extension of SANDF's deployment in Mozambique and the DRC reflects South Africa’s pivotal role in peacekeeping within the African continent. As these military personnel continue their vital missions, the debate over their preparedness and the broader implications of such deployments on national security remains a key issue within South African political discourse. 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

Uganda Expands Fuel Supply Chain, Engages Tanzania Amid Kenya Tensions Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 24, 2024 ​ Ugandan fuel carriers In a strategic move to diversify its fuel supply sources, the Uganda National Oil Company (Unoc) has initiated the sale of petroleum products to oil marketing companies (OMCs) in Tanzania and within its borders. This development follows a burgeoning rift with Kenya, traditionally Uganda's main fuel supplier, propelled by a controversial fuel import credit deal Kenya secured with Gulf oil giants. Unoc's venture into the Tanzanian and Ugandan markets is in collaboration with Vitol Bahrain, marking a preliminary phase before formalizing a comprehensive five-year direct import agreement. This shift aims to mitigate the dependency on Kenyan OMCs, which has been a staple for decades but recently scrutinized for inflated fuel prices due to intermediary costs. The move is not just a test of the waters but a calculated strategy to ensure market readiness for a broader scale operation under the Unoc-Vitol partnership. Vitol, a significant player in the global oil sector with interests in the Fujairah Refinery, UAE, lends considerable weight to this endeavor. This pivot comes at a critical juncture as Kenya extends its government-backed fuel import scheme with Saudi Aramco, Abu Dhabi National Oil, and Emirates National Oil until December 2024, a move that has significant implications for the regional fuel supply dynamics. Unoc's traditional focus on supplying state-owned entities is taking a turn towards engaging private OMCs, signaling a broader market approach. This expansion, however, faces challenges, notably the missed initial import target due to licensing hurdles in Kenya, underscoring the intricate regulatory landscape impacting regional fuel trade. The unfolding scenario presents a nuanced shift in East Africa's energy supply chain, with potential ramifications for the Kenyan Pipeline Company's transit fuel revenues and the broader economic ties within the region. As Uganda charts a new course in its fuel supply strategy, the implications for local OMCs, regional trade dynamics, and consumer prices are closely watched . 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

Uganda and UAE Sign Agreement for Third International Airport Near Kidepo National Park Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 21, 2024 Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed and Yoweri Museveni hold talks at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhab on Monday. Uganda has inked a significant deal with a business association from the United Arab Emirates to construct a new international airport, marking the East African nation’s third such facility. This development was announced by President Yoweri Museveni's office on Friday. The agreement, which sees the UAE's economic presence in Uganda expanding beyond its interests in renewable energy and oil and gas industries, will have the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry spearheading the airport's construction. The new airport will be strategically located just outside Kidepo National Park in the northeast, near Uganda's border with Kenya. While the statement from Museveni's office did not disclose the project's cost, it did confirm that construction is set to commence in August. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, chairman of the Sharjah business body, provided this timeline. The upcoming airport aims to boost tourism by attracting more visitors to the 1,442-square-kilometer Kidepo National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and buffaloes. President Museveni highlighted the deal as an indicator of strengthening relations with Gulf partners and a new avenue for cooperation in investment and trade. He shared his optimism and support for the project in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. The new airport is expected to enhance Uganda’s tourism sector and foster greater economic collaboration between Uganda and the UAE. 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

Ugandan LGBTQ Activist Steven Kabuye Attacked in Kampala Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Drew Mcgee Jan 4, 2024 ​ Ugandan LGBTQ activist Steven Kabuye receives treatment at a hospital after he was attacked and stabbed by unknown people, in Kitende on the outskirts of Kampala, Uganda, Jan. 3, 2024 file by VOANEWS Steven Kabuye, a 25-year-old Ugandan LGBTQ activist, was critically injured in a knife attack by unknown assailants on a motorbike. The attack occurred on the outskirts of Kampala, Uganda's capital, as Kabuye was on his way to work. He suffered serious knife wounds and was left for dead before being discovered by local residents. Kabuye had been receiving death threats since March 2023 and had shared this information with police investigators. According to police spokesman Patrick Onyango, Kabuye reported that two individuals on a motorcycle approached him during the attack. One of the attackers targeted Kabuye's neck with a knife, but he managed to block the attack with his arm, resulting in a stab wound to his hand. Despite his attempt to escape, the assailants continued the assault, stabbing him in the stomach before fleeing the scene. Local residents found Kabuye and transported him to a medical clinic. Richard Lusimbo, head of the Uganda Key Populations Consortium, a community action group, indicated that Kabuye was in critical condition, though police later stated he was out of danger. Kabuye, who works with the Colored Voices Media Foundation advocating for LGBTQ youth, had returned to Uganda in December after traveling abroad. This incident has raised concerns among human rights defenders, especially in the wake of Uganda's adoption of one of the world's harshest anti-gay laws last year. This legislation makes "aggravated homosexuality" a potentially capital offense and imposes life imprisonment for consensual same-sex relations. The law has been met with widespread condemnation from rights advocates and Western countries and is currently being challenged in Uganda's constitutional court. President Yoweri Museveni's government has maintained a defiant stance, with officials accusing Western nations of pressuring Africa to accept homosexuality​​​​. 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