Why Voters Are Falling Out of Love with the ANC and Africa’s Liberation Movements Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 11, 2024 ​ Africa's oldest liberation movement, the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa, is facing significant challenges, reflecting a broader trend across the continent. Despite being South Africa's most popular party, the ANC has lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years. This decline in support marks a departure from the days when voters reflexively supported the party for its role in ending apartheid. This phenomenon is not unique to South Africa. Other liberation movements that led struggles against colonial rule have also experienced similar declines due to corruption, cronyism, and a population eager for change. Some parties still in power, like those in southern Africa, are accused of maintaining their hold through electoral manipulation. Researcher David Soler Crespo notes the inevitability of people seeking change, emphasizing that no party can democratically remain in power indefinitely. These movements have deeply ingrained themselves into national identities, making it difficult for citizens to separate the party from the state. For instance, Namibia's Swapo, which has been in power since 1990, lost its two-thirds majority in 2019, reflecting the population's growing discontent. Social scientists like Ndumba Kamwanyah argue that voters today are less influenced by historical achievements and more by current realities. The socialist ideologies once championed by these movements have often faded, leading to questions about equitable benefits for citizens. Zambia's United National Independence Party (Unip) was one of the first to experience this shift, losing power in the early 1990s after decades of sole governance. In countries like Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Angola, and Mozambique, liberation movements have seen a decline in support. Accusations of electoral fraud and voter intimidation are common, with activists and observers like Adriano Nuvunga highlighting persistent issues in the electoral process. The enduring challenge for these parties is adapting to governance after liberation. Chris Hani, a South African anti-apartheid hero, foresaw the potential for liberators to become elites, disconnected from the people's needs. A former Zimbabwean liberation fighter suggests that these movements are still catching up in a world not designed for them, emphasizing the difficulty of transitioning from revolutionary leadership to effective governance. While the legacy of liberation is deeply embedded in the culture and psyche of these nations, the demand for change is growing. To remain relevant, these parties must reconnect with their foundational ideals and address the needs of a younger, more progressive electorate. 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

President William Ruto to Establish 15 New Ministries to Reduce Public Expenditure Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 6, 2024 President William Ruto presides over a Cabinet meeting President William Ruto will create 15 new ministries to cut public expenditure, following pressure from Gen Z protesters who demanded the dismissal of corrupt Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) and Principal Secretaries (PSs). During a Thursday Cabinet meeting with anxious CSs, Ruto hinted at significant changes in his government. The restructuring will involve merging some ministries and disbanding certain state corporations. Ruto's reorganization will reduce the number of CSs from 22 to 15. The new ministries will be: Ministry of Defence Ministry of Interior Ministry of Energy Ministry of Health Ministry of Education National Treasury Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Community (EAC) Ministry of Labour and Public Service Ministry of Affirmative Action, Youth and Gender Ministry of Water, Forestry and Environment Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports Ministry of Infrastructure, Land, Housing, Public Works and Roads Ministry of Economic Planning Ministry of Trade, Investments and Industry, SMEs, Cooperatives, Delivery Unit and ICT Ruto also withdrew the controversial Finance Bill 2024 after widespread protests and directed austerity measures to reduce government expenditure, starting with the Office of the President. Despite Ruto's refusal to sign the bill into law, Gen Z protesters took to the streets on June 27, demanding radical reforms, including firing corrupt CSs, changing the Kenya Kwanza Alliance leadership in parliament, and conducting lifestyle audits for state officers. 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

Foreign Minister Cites Rwandan Aggression as Key Obstacle to Peacekeeper Pull-Out Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 14, 2024 U.N. peacekeepers patrol a village in North Kivu, Congo, where ongoing conflict with the Rwanda-backed M23 militia has displaced over a million people. The withdrawal of U.N. peacekeepers from Congo's North Kivu is unlikely while Rwandan troops remain in the region, according to Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner. The province has been engulfed in a two-year insurgency by the Rwanda-backed M23 militia, displacing over a million people. A recent U.N. report indicates that 3,000-4,000 Rwandan troops are fighting the Congolese army and controlling M23 operations, an allegation Rwanda denies. Congo's government recently stated that conditions for the U.N. mission's departure have not been met. Wagner emphasized the need for an orderly withdrawal when circumstances improve, citing Rwanda's aggression as a significant barrier. Bintou Keita, head of the U.N. mission MONUSCO, confirmed there is no set timeline for the pull-out. MONUSCO's withdrawal, which began with South Kivu's peacekeepers in June, will significantly impact security operations in eastern Congo. Wagner noted growing international awareness of Rwanda's involvement in the conflict and hopes for targeted sanctions against Rwanda's decision-makers. The fighting in North Kivu has displaced over 1.7 million people, contributing to a record 7.2 million Congolese displaced by various conflicts, according to U.N. estimates. 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

Jacob Zuma Vows to Fight Disqualification from South Africa Election Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 24, 2024 ​ South Africa's former president, Jacob Zuma in courtroom South Africa's former president, Jacob Zuma, has declared his intention to fight for his rights after the country's top court ruled him ineligible to run for parliament in the upcoming election. Constitutional Court Ruling On Monday, the Constitutional Court confirmed that Zuma's 15-month jail sentence for contempt of court in 2021 disqualifies him from participating in the May 29 vote. According to South Africa's constitution, anyone sentenced to 12 months or more in prison is barred from holding a parliamentary seat. Decisions made by the Constitutional Court are final and cannot be overruled. Zuma's Response In a YouTube video shared by his uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, Zuma expressed his determination to challenge the ruling. "Judges of the Constitutional Court have taken a decision that I can't exercise my freedom, my democracy," Zuma said. "I am going to fight for my rights until this country agrees that freedom must be a complete freedom, not for some and oppression for others." Impact on Election Despite the court's decision, Z uma's face will remain on the ballot papers as he is the registered leader of MK. His name, however, will be removed from the list of parliamentary candidates. Zuma endorsed MK in December, distancing himself from the governing African National Congress (ANC), which he led from 2007 to 2017. Political Background Zuma resigned as South Africa's president in 2018 under pressure from current ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa's allies. His nine-year tenure was plagued by corruption scandals and economic challenges. In 2021, Zuma's imprisonment sparked riots in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal, resulting in over 300 deaths and widespread looting. As Zuma continues to contest his disqualification, the upcoming election remains a focal point of political tension in South Africa. 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

Joseph Blackmore Triumphs as Winner of Tour du Rwanda 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Feb 26, 2024 ​ Peter Joseph Celebrating past the finish line. IMAGE by IGIHE Peter Joseph Blackmore, the star rider for Israel Premier Tech, clinched victory in Tour du Rwanda 2024 with a triumphant ride to the Kigali Convention Centre during Sunday's final stage. The 21-year-old Briton, who seized the yellow jersey on Friday by winning Stage Six from Musanze to Mount Kigali, maintained his lead with a stellar performance. Blackmore's success marks a notable achievement, succeeding Eritrean Henok Mulueberhane, the 2023 champion who was unable to defend his title due to a shoulder injury that forced him to withdraw from the competition. The rider's journey to the Kigali Convention Centre was accompanied by jubilant celebrations, solidifying his Tour du Rwanda 2024 glory and establishing him as a rising talent in the cycling world. 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

Tanzania's 2025 Elections: The Enduring Influence of Magufuli's Legacy Amid Samia's Reforms Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 16, 2024 ​ Late President of Tanzania and current President of Tanzania Suluhu Samia Three years after the death of former President John Magufuli, Tanzania continues to feel his impact on its political landscape as current President Samia Suluhu Hassan implements significant reforms. Despite these changes, Magufuli's legacy still resonates as the country approaches the 2025 elections. John Magufuli, who served from 2015 until his death in 2021, was a polarizing figure in Tanzanian politics. Known for his strict governance style, he was both revered and criticized. His administration was marked by a crackdown on political freedoms and a strong stance on development projects, which garnered both domestic and international attention. Since taking office, President Samia has reversed many of Magufuli’s restrictive policies, notably in political and civic spaces. Her administration has reformed election laws and reinstated public rallies, aiming to strengthen democracy and reduce the ruling party's grip on power. These measures have invigorated the opposition, boosting their visibility and engagement ahead of the upcoming election. Despite these reforms, the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party maintains significant advantages. Critics argue that some of Samia's reforms have not gone far enough, as recent legislation still falls short of substantial electoral change. Moreover, internal party dynamics and resistance from Magufuli loyalists pose additional challenges to her leadership. As Tanzania moves towards the 2025 elections, the interplay between Magufuli’s enduring influence and Samia’s progressive policies will be crucial in shaping the nation’s democratic trajectory. Samia’s strategic approach to party politics and governance reforms has positioned her as a transformative leader, yet the full impact of her policies will be tested in the forthcoming elections. 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

Tanzania's Banking Sector Battles 84% rise in Digital Fraud in 2023 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 18, 2024 ​ This image captures the urgent challenge facing Tanzanian institutions: to fortify their defenses against the ever-evolving threat of cyber fraud In a concerning revelation from the Bank of Tanzania (BoT), the final quarter of 2023 saw an unprecedented 84% surge in digital fraud incidents across Tanzania's commercial banks. This dramatic increase has put a spotlight on the escalating cybersecurity threats facing the financial industry and the urgent need for comprehensive countermeasures. A Stark Rise in Cybercrime The BoT's report, released in a March 5 circular to financial institutions, highlights a disturbing trend: more than Tsh1.65 billion ($647,000) was illicitly extracted through mobile and internet banking fraud in the October-December period. This represents a sharp uptick from the Tsh901.8 million ($353,600) reported in the preceding quarter, underscoring the growing sophistication and frequency of cyber-attacks. While the year's overall digital fraud figures slightly dipped below the Tsh1.66 billion ($650,980) peak in Q1, the consistent increase in subsequent quarters paints a worrisome picture of the evolving cyber threat landscape. Diverse Fraud Tactics Uncovered The analysis delves into the various strategies employed by cybercriminals, noting a 60% rise in ATM card skimming to Tsh159.87 million ($62,700) in Q4. Although the year saw fluctuations in the methods used, the cumulative effect of these digital thefts poses a significant challenge to the financial sector's integrity. The BoT's Call to Action The BoT's circular, while not providing comparative data from previous years, serves as a clarion call to Tanzania's financial service providers. The central bank urges heightened vigilance and the adoption of advanced internal controls to mitigate future fraud risks. This proactive stance is crucial in an era where digital transactions are becoming the norm, making robust cybersecurity measures more vital than ever. Towards a More Secure Financial Future With nearly Tsh4.9 billion ($1.92 million) lost to digital banking fraud in 2023, accounting for a substantial portion of the total losses in the sector, the message is clear: the fight against cybercrime requires continuous effort and innovation. As the digital frontier expands, so too must the strategies to protect it, ensuring the safety and confidence of Tanzania's banking customers . 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

Democratic Republic of Congo Faces Delay in Forming New Government: A Comparative Insight Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 30, 2024 ​ President Tshisekedi’s Stance on Constitutional Adherence Five months have elapsed since the general election in the Democratic Republic of Congo, yet the capital, Kinshasa, still awaits the formation of a new government. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, in ongoing discussions with various political parties and figures, faces challenges in establishing a stable administration amid the country's political intricacies. Government Formation Delays in the DRC: An Ongoing Issue The Democratic Republic of Congo is no stranger to prolonged political negotiations following elections. Similar to the 2019 scenario, the current delay underscores a recurring theme in the nation's political landscape. Prime Minister Suminwa is tasked with a herculean job of managing over 300 political parties within President Felix Tshisekedi’s coalition, aiming to condense the Cabinet from 58 to a more manageable 45 ministers. Comparison with Senegal’s Swift Government Formation Contrasting the DRC's slow pace, Senegal showcases a starkly different scenario. Following its March elections, a new government was swiftly in place by April, highlighting the impact of expedient government formation on political stability. The delay in the DRC, as pointed out by MP Godé Mpoy, suggests a need for a more streamlined process in government setups to avoid political and social unease. The Role of Outgoing Ministers and Constitutional Concerns Amidst this transitional phase, the DRC’s President Tshisekedi relies on the outgoing ministers, many of whom continue to serve despite being elected members of parliament. This arrangement, while necessary under the circumstances, has raised constitutional concerns among analysts regarding the dual roles held by these ministers. President Tshisekedi’s Stance on Constitutional Adherence President Tshisekedi, addressing concerns in February, stated his commitment to the nation’s well-being over strict constitutional adherence. “For me, the salvation of the people is the supreme law,” he remarked, highlighting the complex balance between legal frameworks and national welfare needs. As the DRC navigates these challenging waters, the international community watches closely. The formation of a new government is critical not only for domestic stability but also for maintaining international confidence in the DRC’s political processes. The anticipated new government, under Prime Minister Suminwa’s leadership, is expected to be revealed soon, offering hope for a resolution to the ongoing political stalemate. 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

UK Initiates Detention of Migrants for Deportation to Rwanda Under New Immigration Law Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah May 1, 2024 ​ Migrants detention centers British authorities have commenced the detention of migrants, setting the stage for their deportation to Rwanda in the upcoming weeks. This move is part of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's central immigration strategy, designed to address the influx of asylum seekers arriving by unauthorized routes. In April, the UK Parliament passed legislation facilitating the deportation of asylum seekers to Rwanda, with the first deportation flights anticipated to launch in July. This year alone, over 7,500 migrants have reached England via small boats from France. The government argues that this policy will curb the perilous journeys across the English Channel, which have already claimed five lives last week. However, the policy faces staunch opposition from human rights organizations and labor unions, who are gearing up to challenge the legality of the deportation flights. This follows a ruling by the UK Supreme Court last year, which deemed the policy unlawful. Recent images from Britain's Home Office depict the enforcement action, showing a man being escorted into a van and another being handcuffed at his residence. Interior Minister James Cleverly stated, "Our dedicated enforcement teams are working diligently to detain those without legal residency rights promptly to facilitate the departure of flights." Despite the government's firm stance, the initiation of detentions has sparked significant anxiety among the migrant community. Care4Calais, a refugee charity, reported that the detentions began on Monday, with their helpline receiving numerous calls from concerned individuals unclear about their status regarding the first deportation flight. Adding to the complexities, Britain reportedly deported its first asylum seeker to Rwanda under a voluntary scheme, according to The Sun newspaper, a program separate from the ongoing deportation policy. "People are very frightened," expressed Natasha Tsangarides, Associate Director of Advocacy at Freedom from Torture. Tsangarides highlighted the fear permeating the migrant community, which could drive some to evade authorities and disconnect from available support networks. As the UK pushes forward with this controversial policy, it remains to be seen how the impending legal challenges and the community's response will shape its implementation and impact. 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

José Mourinho Joins Egypt Cup Final Analysis Team as Pundit Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Feb 27, 2024 ​ José Mourinho aka Special One. IMAGE: Instagram/josemourinho Turki Al-Sheikh , the chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, has confirmed that renowned football manager José Mourinho will be part of the analysis team for the Egypt Cup final. This exciting development comes as the Egyptian Football Association collaborates with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation to stage the Cairo derby in the final of the 2022-2023 Egypt Cup, which will take place in Riyadh. In preparation for the highly anticipated match between Al Ahly and Zamalek , a total of 44 cameras will cover the action, including 28 inside the stadium. The production crew handling the broadcast is the same team that directed the World Cup final. Additionally, an agreement has been reached with the United Media Services Company for joint broadcasting, and discussions are ongoing with both Al Ahly and Zamalek regarding camera placement on the substitutes’ benches. This historic Egypt Cup final will be played in Saudi Arabia for the first time, specifically at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. As part of the Riyadh Season festivities, Turki Al-Sheikh has announced an additional cash prize of $500,000 for the cup final winner. The preparations for Al-Awwal Park Stadium are underway, and fans can look forward to a pre-match ceremony featuring a major star, followed by extensive celebrations with the victorious team. Al-Awwal Park( King Saud University Stadium). Photograph provided by StadiumDB The prize distribution is as follows: Winner: $500,000 Runner-up: $150,000 Best player: $50,000 Before kick-off, viewers can tune in to the pre-match analysis studio, hosted by Ibrahim Fayek and Walid Al Faraj, with the esteemed José Mourinho providing expert insights. [ kingfut ] 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

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko Urges African Youth to Stay in Africa Amid Tragic Migrant Boat Sinking Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 7, 2024 Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has called on the youth of Africa to remain on the continent following a tragic shipwreck off the coast of Mauritania. The incident, which involved a migrant boat attempting to reach Spain's Canary Islands, resulted in nearly 90 deaths. The boat had departed from Niodior, on the Senegal-Gambia border, carrying 170 passengers. In a speech at Gaston Berger University in Saint Louis, Sonko emphasized that the future lies in Africa, not in migration. "The future of the world is in Africa," he stated. He urged young people to recognize the continent's potential for significant growth and progress, asserting that Africa should drive global growth over the next 50 years. Sonko stressed that Africans must lead this development, rejecting the exploitation of natural resources by external entities. Three Senegalese NGOs have called on the Dakar authorities to provide better opportunities for young people to deter them from seeking dangerous migration routes. The Senegalese Navy has increased efforts to intercept migrant boats and rescue those in distress, with recent operations saving hundreds of people. The Atlantic migration route remains perilous due to strong currents and overcrowded, often unseaworthy boats. Despite the risks, it is increasingly used by migrants due to heightened surveillance in the Mediterranean. Sonko's appeal underscores the need for internal development and opportunities to prevent such tragedies and harness Africa's 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

MPs Criticize UK Government's Rwanda Asylum Scheme as Infeasible and Costly Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 30, 2024 ​ MPs gather in the House of Commons ahead of the second vote on the emergency Rwanda migrant deportation bill in London The UK government's plan to relocate asylum seekers to Rwanda lacks a credible implementation strategy, according to a scathing report by the Public Accounts Committee. The Home Office's accommodation plans have fallen "woefully short of reality," with costs spiraling far beyond initial estimates. One site alone has cost almost 10 times the projected £5m, totaling £49m. Since June 2022, the government has spent £310m on the scheme, with £290m allocated to Rwanda. Despite this significant expenditure, no flights are expected before the upcoming elections, as stated by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The National Audit Office revealed that the total cost of housing over 50,000 asylum seekers in the UK has also been substantial. Detention for Rwanda flights began last month, but immigration judges have since released at least 24 detainees due to unclear timetables. The government has not disclosed the number of successful bail applications for "operational reasons." MPs criticized the Home Office's lack of transparency and practical planning, expressing doubt in its ability to execute the Rwanda partnership effectively. The committee highlighted the significant overspending on new asylum accommodation sites, such as RAF Wethersfield and RAF Scampton, compared to keeping migrants in hotels. In response, Home Secretary James Cleverly emphasized the necessity of the Rwanda scheme to deter illegal immigration, while Labour's Yvette Cooper condemned the plan as ineffective and a waste of taxpayer money. 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