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- President Akufo-Addo Lauds IMF Support Amid Positive Shifts
President Akufo-Addo Lauds IMF Support Amid Positive Shifts Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 18, 2024 IMF boss to meet Akufo-Addo Ghana's partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), initiated in July 2022, has borne fruit, marking a significant turnaround in the nation's economic fortunes. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in discussions with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, highlighted the positive outcomes of this collaboration, including a steady decline in inflation, reduced interest rates, and a stable currency. These indicators not only reflect the current state of economic stability but also lay a strong foundation for sustained growth and prosperity. The collaboration is anchored in a three-year plan under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), totaling approximately US$3 billion, aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, achieving debt sustainability, and fostering an inclusive economic recovery. The plan encompasses fiscal consolidation, inflation control, and the implementation of structural reforms to enhance the economy's resilience to external shocks and internal vulnerabilities. President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to the agreed reforms, stressing the importance of steady progress towards the overarching goal of rapid development and prosperity for its citizens. He praised the IMF for its understanding and support, emphasizing Ghana's unique journey as a trailblazer in Africa's post-colonial development narrative. Meanwhile, Georgieva commended the Ghanaian government for its swift progress in debt restructuring, reflecting the productive nature of the Ghana-IMF partnership. In a related event highlighting Ghana's forward-looking stance, the country hosted an AI conference in collaboration with the IMF, themed "AI as a Catalyst to Transform Economies in Sub-Saharan Africa." This gathering underscores Ghana's commitment to leveraging technological innovations to drive economic transformation, showcasing its role as a model for resilience and innovation in the region. 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
- M23 is an empty shell the real criminal is Paul Kagame
M23 is an empty shell the real criminal is Paul Kagame Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 1, 2024 Felix Tshisekedi President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo During a candid interview with Deutsche Welle in Germany, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) voiced strong accusations against Rwanda, highlighting a long-standing issue of illegal mineral exploitation that has plagued his country. President Tshisekedi accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebel group, a claim supported by United Nations reports, and contributing to ongoing instability in eastern DRC. He described Rwanda's involvement as a façade for plundering DRC’s vast mineral wealth, which includes crucial elements like cobalt and coltan, essential for modern technology. The DRC leader’s narrative pointedly criticizes Paul Kagame, Rwanda’s president, labeling him the orchestrator behind the exploitation and violence in the region. Tshisekedi’s resolve is evident as he expresses a desire for a direct confrontation with Kagame to hold him accountable, dismissing any dialogue with the M23 as they are, in his view, merely a proxy for Rwandan interests. Tshisekedi said "M23 is an empty shell made to justify the aggression against my country But in reality, the real aggressor and the real criminal is Paul Kagame,I want to meet him not to beg him or to negotiate anything with him but to tell him clearly with my own eyes that he's a criminal that his dirty game is now known to everyone" President Tshisekedi's call for accountability extends to the international community, urging a reassessment of Rwanda's so-called development miracle. attributing its growth to the unauthorized extraction of Congolese resources rather than effective governance. The President's accusations extend beyond Apple, hinting at a broader network of complicity in the exploitation of the DRC's resources, which he insists is facilitated by international NGOs and benefits Rwanda economically. Tshisekedi's government has recently accused tech giant Apple of using minerals sourced from illegal exploitation, alleging that these minerals are smuggled through Rwanda, financing armed groups and perpetuating violence in eastern DRC. This situation is not new; it has been a destructive cycle for over thirty years, stemming from the influx of armed refugees from Rwanda in the 1990s. 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
- Rescue Efforts Halted After Building Collapse in South Africa Leaves 33 Dead
Rescue Efforts Halted After Building Collapse in South Africa Leaves 33 Dead Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 18, 2024 Rescue team attempting to get people who could still be stuck under debris Rescue efforts have been halted in the South African city of George after a devastating building collapse claimed 33 lives. For 11 days, rescue personnel and volunteers tirelessly combed through the rubble of the five-storey residential building that crumbled during construction, creating a massive cloud of dust. The Western Cape government now estimates that 62 people were present at the site during the disaster, with 29 individuals surviving after being rescued. Initially, municipal officials believed that 81 people might have been on-site when the building came down. Anton Bredell, a Western Cape provincial official, announced, "The site is empty. We have done our job." The tragedy has affected a diverse group, including migrants from neighboring Malawi and Zimbabwe, alongside South African workers. The Malawian foreign affairs ministry confirmed that nine Malawian nationals died in the incident, with 11 rescued. Of those rescued, two remain hospitalized. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the collapse. President Cyril Ramaphosa visited the site on Thursday, meeting with the families of the victims to offer his condolences and support. 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 Election could Mark the End of ANC Dominance
South Africa Election could Mark the End of ANC Dominance Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 1, 2024 The Electoral Commission of South Africa, in Midrand, South Africa, May 31, 2024 The Electoral Commission of South Africa, in Midrand, South Africa, May 31, 2024 South Africa is poised to end three decades of African National Congress (ANC) dominance, as voters express dissatisfaction with unemployment, inequality, and power shortages. The ANC's share of the vote has dropped to 40%, down from 57.5% in the 2019 parliamentary election. With 98% of polling stations reporting, the ANC has secured 40.15% of the vote. The main opposition, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has 21.71%, while the newly formed uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), led by former President Jacob Zuma, holds 14.76%. This dramatic decline means the ANC must now form a coalition to retain power, an unprecedented situation for the party that ended apartheid in 1994. MK’s strong performance, particularly in Zuma’s home province of KwaZulu-Natal, is a significant factor in the ANC's failure to secure a majority. The allocation of parliamentary seats, which will determine the presidency, is uncertain . President Cyril Ramaphosa remains a potential leader, with the ANC likely to receive about twice as many votes as the next party. However, his position is weakened, and he may face calls to step down from both opposition parties and internal critics. Despite this, a top ANC official expressed support for Ramaphosa's continued leadership on Friday. Analysts suggest there is no clear successor. A coalition deal might see the ANC retain the presidency in exchange for opposition control over certain cabinet posts or parliamentary roles. The election commission plans to announce the final results on Sunday. Investors in Africa’s most industrialized economy are eager for a swift resolution to the political uncertainty. 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
- French President Emmanuel Macron Roots for Kylian Mbappe's Inclusion in Paris Olympics
French President Emmanuel Macron Roots for Kylian Mbappe's Inclusion in Paris Olympics Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 13, 2024 Qatar World Cup 2022, Emmanuel Macron, Kylian Mbappe, France Football In a recent statement, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his hopes for soccer sensation Kylian Mbappe to represent France at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. This comes in the wake of Mbappe's announcement that he will be leaving Paris Saint-Germain, amidst widespread speculation about his potential transfer to Real Madrid. "Beyond the anticipation of his club transfer, I am keenly hopeful that Real Madrid will allow Kylian the opportunity to join the French squad at the Olympics," Macron mentioned in a video on his X account. This public endorsement highlights the national importance of Mbappe's participation, not just as a sports figure but as a national icon. Kylian Mbappe, 25, has already marked his prowess on the international stage, notably scoring in the 2018 World Cup final which secured France the championship against Croatia. His performance there and in subsequent matches has cemented his status as one of football's premier talents. As the Paris Olympic Games approach, all eyes will be on Mbappe’s next moves—both on and off the field. The involvement of a high-profile athlete like Mbappe could significantly boost the host country's morale and global standing in the sport. 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
- Kylian Mbappe Joins Real Madrid: Official Signing Confirmed
Kylian Mbappe Joins Real Madrid: Official Signing Confirmed Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 2, 2024 Mbappé celebrates scoring for PSG against RC Lens last year In a landmark transfer, Kylian Mbappe has officially signed with Real Madrid. The 25-year-old superstar, who recently became a free agent after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired, is set to bring his talents to the reigning European champions. Mbappe's move to Los Blancos comes on the heels of their 15th Champions League title win, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in European football. The French forward is expected to be unveiled this week, marking a new era for the club. Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news , tweeting: "Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid, HERE WE GO! Every document has been signed, sealed, and completed." Romano also revealed that Mbappe made his decision in February, indicating a long-term plan to join the Spanish giants. Stay tuned for the official announcement from Real Madrid, welcoming Mbappe as their latest star signing. 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
- Lola Group Grants $33 Million to SDD-UBIDS as Leader Claims All African Countries Can't Afford Guarantees
Lola Group Grants $33 Million to SDD-UBIDS as Leader Claims All African Countries Can't Afford Guarantees Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 15, 2024 Map of Africa with an Empty bank safe Vivian Fray Tarrence, team lead for the international investment platform Lola Group in Turkey, declared that all African countries are bankrupt and unable to provide even 5% of the required funding for investors. This statement was made during a visit to the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS), where Tarrence met with Vice-Chancellor Prof. Emmanuel K. Derbile. Tarrence announced a US$33 million approval from the Lola Group for constructing new faculties , supporting research, and providing hostels at SDD-UBIDS. The funding, arranged through non-recourse and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements, aims to address infrastructure deficits in collaboration with the College for Community and Organisational Development. Tarrence explained that the Lola Group has developed a strategy to bypass the need for guarantees, which allowed for the approval of the US$33 million grant without any guarantees or upfront payments. Despite expressing concerns about the reluctance of funders to invest in Africa due to past project failures, Tarrence highlighted plans to facilitate exchange programs, enabling students from countries like South Africa, Turkey, the USA, and Canada to study at SDD-UBIDS. Prof. Emmanuel K. Derbile assured the Lola Group that the university is committed to executing the projects according to specifications and will promptly review the MoU and agreements to work efficiently with the university council. He expressed gratitude to the Lola Group for approving the funds and awarding the university two grants for various projects, hoping that this partnership will significantly improve the university’s infrastructure and enhance student accommodation and faculty facilities. 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
- Media Forensics Continues Unveiling the Twitter Propaganda Machine: 464 Accounts Identified in Digital Deception
Media Forensics Continues Unveiling the Twitter Propaganda Machine: 464 Accounts Identified in Digital Deception Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Jun 24, 2024 Rwandan Spokesperson Yolanda Makolo and her boss Paul Kagame as powerhouse for their own media propagandists Recent investigations have uncovered a sophisticated network of 464 accounts on X/Twitter, orchestrating a coordinated influence operation (CIO). Researchers meticulously inspected the social media information environment across various platforms, focusing on narratives likely targeted for manipulation. The study revealed distinct clusters of accounts, highlighting key participants and potential opinion leaders. Key Findings Clusters of Influence The investigation identified two primary clusters: Pro-Rwanda Cluster : A smaller, tightly-knit group of highly active pro-Rwanda accounts, including influencers [ @FelixMugenzi ] and [ @BahoNtaganira ] This cluster aimed to undermine the credibility of Forbidden Stories, a collective of journalists. Forbidden Stories Cluster : A larger, more diffuse cluster containing Forbidden Stories (@FbdnStories) and several affiliated journalists, such as @SamuelBaker_B. This group promoted the investigative reporting by Forbidden Stories. Criteria for Identifying Accounts Researchers used stringent criteria to identify accounts involved in the campaign: Shared either # RwandaClassified or # RPFonTop between May 13 and May 31, 2024. Used at least two suspicious hashtags six or more times within the same period. Posted original tweets with common characteristics (language, media sources, length, and hashtags). Passed manual inspection to exclude accounts with substantial idiosyncratic content. Data Collection and Analysis The original data pull included all tweets mentioning # RwandaClassified or # RPFOnTop between May 13 and May 31, 2024, resulting in 149,246 messages from 5,537 accounts. Suspicious hashtags were identified based on frequency in messages from accounts sending at least ten messages during this period. The top suspicious hashtags included: #RPFOnTop (127,695 mentions) #PKNiWowe (95,100 mentions) #ThanksPK (27,609 mentions) #AgricultureAndFarming (26,879 mentions) Through further analysis, 610 accounts were identified as sharing two or more suspicious hashtags at least six times. After removing suspended accounts and applying additional hand-cleaning criteria, 464 accounts remained for the final analysis. On June 1, 2024, researchers pulled the latest data, collecting up to 10,000 messages from each of the 463 remaining accounts, resulting in 787,261 posts. Propaganda Tactics The identified accounts predominantly followed a pattern of rapid publication , using AI-generated text and preferred hashtags. Following the release of Forbidden Stories' reporting, these accounts targeted the reporting itself (# RwandaClassified) and promoted Rwandan political figures and parties, such as Paul Kagame (# PKNiWowe) and the Rwandan Patriotic Front (# RPFOnTop). These tactics aimed to disrupt online discussions and flood social media with government propaganda. The investigation into these 464 Twitter accounts highlights the extent and sophistication of coordinated influence operations. By employing media forensics and advanced analysis techniques, researchers were able to uncover a network dedicated to manipulating public perception and undermining credible journalism. As social media platforms continue to play a critical role in shaping public discourse, such studies are essential in identifying and countering the spread of disinformation. 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
- $1 Billion Innovation Boost: Rwanda and Nigeria Spearhead African Startup Revolution
$1 Billion Innovation Boost: Rwanda and Nigeria Spearhead African Startup Revolution Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 30, 2024 In a landmark move for African innovation, Rwanda's capital, Kigali, became the stage for an unprecedented collaboration between President Paul Kagame and former Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. The duo came together to spearhead the Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing African startups with a substantial $1 billion fund. Richard Tusabe, Rwanda's Minister of State for National Treasury, heralded the discussions between the leaders as pivotal. He underscored the Timbuktoo Foundation's commitment to elevating African youth, transforming them into entrepreneurs, innovators, and problem solvers. "The Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation is not just a fund; it's a catalyst for transformative change across Africa, fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship on a pan-African scale," Tusabe stated. This initiative, which saw its inception at a special session of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January, aims to bolster startups across the African continent with the $1 billion innovation fund. The fund represents a significant stride towards empowering the African innovation ecosystem, providing both financial support and a platform for young entrepreneurs to thrive. Yemi Osinbajo, serving as the High Representative of the Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation, celebrated the launch of the Foundation in Rwanda. He lauded the collaborative effort between the UNDP, African governments, and the private sector as "the world's largest initiative supporting Africa's innovation ecosystem." Osinbajo emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative, stating, "Timbuktoo transcends being merely an initiative; it embodies a movement towards redefining Africa through innovation." With initiatives like UniPods sparking creativity in 13 cities and thematic hubs promoting excellence in sectors ranging from FinTech to GreenTech, the Timbuktoo Foundation is set to revolutionize the landscape of African innovation. "This historic day marks the beginning of a transformative journey for Africa, turning dreams into impactful ventures," Osinbajo remarked, envisioning a future where innovation redefines the continent. The Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation is poised to ignite a new era of growth and creativity across Africa, making the dream of a vibrant, innovative continent a tangible reality. As leaders and visionaries unite under this cause, the future of African innovation shines brighter than ever, promising a legacy of entrepreneurship and transformative success . 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 Sudanese Parties Commit to Code of Conduct for Upcoming December 2024 Elections
South Sudanese Parties Commit to Code of Conduct for Upcoming December 2024 Elections Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 12, 2024 South sudan opposition leader Riek Machar handshaking President Salva Kiir. In a significant step towards maintaining peace and fairness in the forthcoming national elections, South Sudan's political parties have agreed on a Code of Conduct. This crucial development took place during a pivotal event on April 4th, hosted by the reconstituted Political Parties Council of South Sudan. The gathering brought together leaders from various political factions and representatives from civil society to endorse the new regulations that aim to guide their actions during the electoral process. United Efforts for a Peaceful Election Ismail Wais, the Special Envoy to South Sudan from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), emphasized the importance of the Code of Conduct. "The adoption of the Code of Conduct comes at a critical time," Wais stated. He highlighted its necessity as "an essential ingredient for peaceful elections," which will help clarify permissible behaviors and enforce accountability for any actions that deviate from the agreed standards. Support for the initiative was strong among international stakeholders, with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) playing a supportive role in the forum. Joram Biswaro, the ambassador of the African Union mission in South Sudan, acknowledged the encouragement from UNMISS and other entities. "UNMISS and the other stakeholders encourage us to support this process to the extent that we are here to see this Code of Conduct today being validated,” Biswaro remarked. Juba's Preparations for a Fair Electoral Process As the capital city, Juba is at the forefront of achieving peace benchmarks necessary for conducting the first national elections since the 2018 peace agreement. The city is focused on establishing the necessary technical, logistical, operational, and political frameworks to ensure a fair and equitable voting process. The Role of UNMISS and Regional Partners Consistent with its mandate, UNMISS, along with regional partners, regularly engages in consultations with political parties. These discussions aim to address unresolved issues and foster trust among the political entities, reinforcing the mission's ongoing commitment to support South Sudan’s peace processes. Importance of Public Participation The success of South Sudan's democratic journey heavily depends on broad public engagement in the peace processes and a vibrant, competitive political landscape. The establishment of a fair electoral system and adherence to the newly adopted Code of Conduct are seen as vital components in paving the way for a peaceful and democratic future. South Sudan stands at a crucial juncture, and the cooperation and commitment demonstrated by its political leaders and international supporters are hopeful signs of a peaceful electoral period ahead. 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
- Nigeria Pursues $2.25 Billion in World Bank Financing to Bolster Economic Growth
Nigeria Pursues $2.25 Billion in World Bank Financing to Bolster Economic Growth Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 22, 2024 WALE-EDUN-Minister-of-Finance Nigeria In a strategic move to enhance economic stability and growth, Nigeria is in talks to secure up to $2.25 billion in loans from the World Bank, as disclosed by the government following the recent IMF/World Bank spring meetings held in Washington, D.C. The proposed financial package, expected to receive approval in June, includes $1.5 billion in development policy financing alongside $750 million in programme-for-results financing. Finance Minister Wale Edun highlighted the nation's proactive efforts to attract essential foreign exchange, including plans to issue diaspora bonds later this year. These bonds are aimed at engaging Nigerians living abroad in the country's economic development by leveraging their investment in national growth. Despite challenges such as a foreign exchange shortage that led to a dip in the value of the naira, Nigeria's currency has shown signs of recovery. This rebound is critical as Nigeria remains Africa's largest oil exporter. The administration of President Bola Tinubu has also inherited significant challenges including record debt levels and high unemployment rates. However, recent measures have seen a reduction in federal borrowing from the central bank by 50%, indicating a robust approach to fiscal management. The World Bank's potential approval of this substantial loan package in June will play a pivotal role in supporting Nigeria's ongoing economic reforms and development initiatives. These efforts are geared towards building a more stable and prosperous economic landscape for Africa's giant. 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 Ruto Pledges cutting expenditure After Protests
Kenya's Ruto Pledges cutting expenditure After Protests Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 5, 2024 Kenyan President William Ruto addresses a press conference at the State House in Nairobi, June 26, 2024. Kenyan President William Ruto on Friday announced spending cuts of 177 billion shillings ($1.39 billion) for the fiscal year starting in July, following weeks of nationwide protests that led to the scrapping of planned tax hikes. To cover the 346 billion shilling shortfall from withdrawing the finance bill, the government will increase borrowing by 169 billion shillings. The protests, initially peaceful but later turning violent , have posed the biggest challenge to Ruto's two-year-old presidency. Rights groups reported hundreds of arrests and at least 39 deaths due to the government's heavy-handed response, sparking fears of rights violations. In a televised address, Ruto stated that the budget deficit is now projected at 4.6% of GDP for the 2024/25 financial year, up from an earlier estimate of 3.3%. He outlined measures to cut spending, including dissolving 47 state corporations, reducing government advisors by 50%, and suspending non-essential travel for public officials. "Budget lines for the operations of the Office of the First Lady, the spouse of the Deputy President, and the Prime Cabinet Secretary will be removed," Ruto said, adding that public servants aged 60 and above must retire immediately. 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