Biniam Girmay Becomes First Black African to Win Tour de France Stage Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 2, 2024 Eritrean Cyclist Biniam Girmay's Historic Victory in Turin Biniam Girmay made history as the first black African to win a Tour de France stage, triumphing in a dramatic finish in Turin. Eritrea's Girmay clinched victory in a reduced sprint, beating Colombia's Fernando Gaviria and Belgium's Arnaud de Lie. The stage, a 230.8km route from Piacenza, was marred by a late crash that disrupted many riders, including Mark Cavendish. Cavendish, aiming for a record 35th stage win, was caught out of position due to the crash just over 2km from the finish. He and several others avoided serious injury but lost the chance to compete in the final sprint. Richard Carapaz became the first Ecuadorian to wear the yellow jersey, leading the general classification tied on time with Tadej Pogacar, Remco Evenepoel, and Jonas Vingegaard. At the finish, an emotional Girmay, 24, reflected on his victory. "I would say thanks to God for everything, for giving me all the strength and support," he said. "Since I started cycling I was never dreaming to be part of the Tour de France but now I can't believe it. I want to say thank you to my family, my wife, Eritrea, and Africa. We must be proud. Now is our moment, now is our time. This is for all Africa." Cavendish and his Astana-Qazaqstan teammates were on the right side of the road when the crash occurred. The 39-year-old expressed relief at avoiding injury, having crashed out last year on stage eight. "Something was going to happen," Cavendish said. "You could feel it but you didn't know where or when. I heard it happening ahead so you're on the brakes, you skid and you wait for somebody to hit you from behind. Thankfully we were OK and I don't think anyone was seriously hurt. We didn't sprint but we're safe and that's the main thing." The Tour heads into the Alps on Tuesday, tackling the mighty Col du Galibier on the mountainous 139.6km route from Pinerolo to Valloire. 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

Beer prices hike again for the third time This Year Amid Economic Strain in Nigeria Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 14, 2024 ​ Popular Breweries in Nigeria (Beverages) Nigerian Breweries, the country's leading and most established brewing company, has declared another increase in beer prices due to escalating production costs. This marks the third price adjustment in less than twelve months, intensifying the financial burden on consumers seeking refreshment. The revised pricing is set to commence on Friday, closely following the previous adjustment a month ago. In the face of Nigeria's dire economic challenges, the brewery reported a significant net loss of 106 billion naira ($66 million/£53 million) last year. The naira's depreciation has notably inflated the cost of importing essential brewing ingredients, contributing to the financial strain. The broader manufacturing sector is similarly affected, with numerous local businesses raising product prices to counter the economic downturn, described as the most severe in recent decades. The scarcity of foreign currency, crucial for importing raw materials, coupled with inadequate power supply, stands out as primary obstacles for production and commercial operations in Nigeria. The ripple effects of heightened food and transport expenses have exacerbated the situation, plunging an increasing number of Nigerians into poverty. This price surge from Nigerian Breweries is a reflection of the broader economic hardships faced by industries and consumers alike. 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

Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou:"Joshua's Second-Round Thunderous Knockout win at Riyadh Showdown Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 9, 2024 ​ An explosive right hand sent Ngannou reeling, leading to the referee's Intervention and calling an end to the contest at the showdown In an electrifying bout in Saudi Arabia, British heavyweight Anthony Joshua delivered a stunning performance, securing a second-round knockout victory against former UFC champion Francis Ngannou. The match, highly anticipated by fans worldwide, saw Joshua, at 34, showcase his prowess and strategic acumen, reaffirming his status in the heavyweight division. From the onset, Joshua's intent was clear. He floored Ngannou in the initial round and continued his dominance into the second. An explosive right hand sent Ngannou reeling, leading to the referee intervening and calling an end to the contest. Ngannou, 37, visibly shaken by the power of Joshua's punch, required medical attention post-fall, highlighting the match's intensity. Joshua's victory was witnessed by none other than WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, adding a layer of intrigue given Fury's previous challenging encounter with Ngannou. Joshua's post-fight remarks hinted at respect for Ngannou's capabilities and an openness to future challenges within the boxing domain, further fueling speculations abou t potential matchups . This win marks Joshua's fourth victory in 11 months, a testament to his relentless pursuit of reclaiming a world title. The event also drew attention to the promotional prowess of Eddie Hearn, who has been instrumental in Joshua's career. Hearn's post-fight comments suggest ambitious plans for Joshua, eyeing a matchup with the winner of the forthcoming bout between Fury and Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight championship. The fight not only showcased Joshua's technical growth as a boxer but also highlighted his mental preparation and strategic planning. His ability to maintain composure under pressure and execute a game plan flawlessly was evident from the first bell. The knockout serves as a powerful statement in the heavyweight division and sets the stage for intriguing future contests. As Joshua looks ahead, the boxing world watches with bated breath for his next move. With potential high-stakes matches on the horizon, Joshua's career trajectory remains a focal point for fans and analysts alike, promising more thrilling encounters in the ring. 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

Ethiopia Chosen as Boeing's African Headquarters over Kenya and South Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 30, 2024 ​ The exterior of the Boeing Company headquarters is seen on March 25, 2024 in Arlington, Virginia Boeing has selected Ethiopia as the location for its African headquarters, surpassing Kenya and South Africa. This decision highlights Ethiopia's outstanding aviation safety record, which is among the best in Africa, according to reports In a strategic move, Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance airline operations and develop key areas, including industrial development, advanced aviation training, educational partnerships, and leadership development. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Ethiopian Airlines, which recently made history as the first African customer for Boeing's 777X aircraft. Despite facing recent challenges, Ethiopian Airlines remains committed to Boeing . Last year, the airline announced orders for 11 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 20 Boeing 737 Max airplanes as part of its fleet modernization strategy. In preparation for this new development, Boeing has appointed Henok Shawl, a former Ethiopian Airlines executive with extensive experience in the aviation and telecommunications sectors, to lead its Africa division. Boeing's decision to establish its African headquarters in Ethiopia reflects the continent's abundant natural resources and burgeoning young workforce, which are poised to drive significant growth in air traffic and airplane demand over the next two decades. Boeing projects that African carriers will require an estimated 1,030 new aircraft over the next 20 years to meet international standards. Last year, Boeing delivered 528 commercial airplanes and received 1,576 net orders, with an estimated market capitalization of USD 107 billion as of May 2024. The establishment of Boeing's headquarters in Ethiopia is expected to further enhance the region's aviation sector and contribute to its economic growth. 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 Arrival of Advanced Bullet Trains in Ghana as the country Ushers in New Era of Rail Transport Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 10, 2024 ​ In an exciting development for Ghana's transportation landscape, the first set of 12 cutting-edge bullet trains, assembled in Poland, has made its way to the Tema Port, signaling a major leap forward for the nation's rail sector. These state-of-the-art trains are set to operate on the newly constructed Tema-Mpakadan Standard-Gauge Railway Line, enhancing connectivity along Ghana's Eastern Corridor. Spanning 97 kilometers, the Tema-Mpakadan Railway Line is a crucial component of a larger vision aimed at fostering Ghana-Burkina Faso connectivity, linking Ouagadougou to Tema's port. This standard-gauge railroad is poised to revolutionize the transportation of goods and people, significantly boosting economic activities and accessibility in the region. The collaboration with Polish manufacturer PESA marks a pivotal moment in Ghana's railway expansion. Yaw Owusu, CEO of the Ghana Railways Development Authority, highlighted the significance of this partnership, which is not only a testament to international cooperation but also a foundation for long-term growth and sustainability in Ghana's railway system. The introduction of these modern trains is a key element in Ghana's broader strategy to construct a 4000km railway network, aligning with its industrialisation goals. This initiative is expected to significantly improve the travel experience for passengers and accelerate economic growth by facilitating smoother movement across the country. Preparations are underway for the official commissioning of the trains by the President in June 2024, following thorough system testing and trial runs. The recent visit by a delegation from PESA to Ghana's Transport Minister, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, reaffirms the commitment to expedite the operational readiness of these trains, aiming for the start of commercial operations by the end of May. "An optimism and commitment have been expressed towards ensuring that the initiation of commercial train operations is realized before the end of May, which would showcase the government's dedication to enacting significant enhancements within the nation's transportation infrastructure," he said. This transformative project underscores the Ghanaian government's dedication, under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to advance the nation's transportation infrastructure, setting the stage for a new chapter in Ghana's economic and developmental journey. 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

Burna Boy's Historic Sell-Out at Montreal's Bell Centre Marks New Milestone Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 29, 2024 ​ Burna Boy's Electrifying perfomance in Montreal In an electrifying display of talent and charisma, Afrobeat sensation Burna Boy has set a new benchmark by being the first African artist to sell out the massive 21,000-seat Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada. The Grammy-award-winning musician captivated the full house with his dynamic performance, further solidifying his status in the music industry. Some of the highlights at the event : Burna Boy's "I Told Them" tour's latest triumph in Montreal continues to build on his impressive list of accomplishments, including his historic performance at the Grammy Awards, marking him as the first African artist to grace its stage. His genre-defining Afrofusion sound—a vibrant mix of Afrobeat, dancehall, and reggae—has not only defined his career but also led to chart-topping hits that resonate globally. Among his many achievements, Burna Boy's track "Ye" stands out as his biggest hit, encapsulating the essence of Afrobeat while highlighting his lyrical prowess and unique sound. This track, among others, has played a pivotal role in Burna Boy's journey to becoming one of the most influential African artists of his generation. 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

U.S. Army Officers Enhance Emergency Joint Drills in Uganda Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 3, 2024 ​ In a significant demonstration of international collaboration and preparedness, U.S. Army personnel from the East Africa Response Force (EARF), under the auspices of the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, have embarked on a critical three-day emergency response exercise at the United States embassy in Kampala, Uganda. This initiative, running from April 1, 2024, is part of a broader effort to bolster humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities on the African continent. Dorothy Nanyonga, a strategic communications specialist at the U.S. Embassy, highlighted the essence of this exercise as a strategic endeavor to ensure readiness in real-life humanitarian crises. The EARF, established following the 2012 Benghazi attack, is a testament to the U.S. commitment to swiftly address emergencies and protect its interests in East Africa. This regularly scheduled training, endorsed by host nations across Africa, serves a dual purpose. It not only hones the skills required for effective emergency deployment but also strengthens the operational continuity of U.S. embassies under duress. Uganda, with its strategic significance in East Africa, provides an ideal backdrop for such comprehensive readiness drills, reinforcing the synergy between the U.S. military and Ugandan authorities in managing potential crises . The deployment of EARF personnel in Uganda is a clear indicator of the proactive measures being taken to ensure that both American and local assets are safeguarded in the face of unforeseen disasters. This exercise underscores the enduring partnership between Uganda and the United States, aimed at fostering a secure and responsive environment in the region. As this exercise unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of readiness and the global commitment to humanitarian assistance. The collaboration between the U.S. military and Ugandan officials exemplifies the shared dedication to peace and stability in East Africa, ensuring that both nations are better prepared to face any emergency with confidence and efficiency. 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

EAC Secretariat Alerts on False Currency Claims Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 4, 2024 ​ 'SHEAFRA': A fictional glimpse into the future of East African unity, marked by the stark reminder to always verify news The East African Community (EAC) Secretariat has issued a warning about misleading information spreading on social media concerning the launch of a new common currency for the region. This clarification comes after a fake account with a government-affiliated grey checkmark falsely announced the introduction of the East African currency, causing confusion among stakeholders. Prominent media figure Larry Madowo highlighted the issue, noting the challenges faced by the EAC's official account in addressing the misinformation caused by the unauthorized announcement. The EAC Secretariat reassured the public that the establishment of a single currency is an ongoing process, emphasizing the importance of disregarding unfounded rumors. The EAC is actively working towards a Monetary Union, with the eventual goal of launching a unified currency as part of its integration efforts. This initiative aims to streamline transactions, harmonize prices across the region, and enhance economic stability. However, it also involves complex considerations, such as the alignment of monetary and fiscal policies among member states and the potential loss of individual monetary control. The community urges stakeholders to stay informed through official channels and remain vigilant against misinformation on social media platforms. 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 Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan's Bright Stars in action during a pivotal basketball game South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, is transforming its historical narrative from conflict to triumph through basketball. Emerging from one of the longest civil wars, the country now garners attention for its athletic achievements. The men’s national basketball team, the Bright Stars, have secured a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics and recently came within seconds of a historic win against the United States. The Rise of the Bright Stars The Bright Stars’ rise to prominence in the international basketball arena is largely attributed to the influence of former NBA star Luol Deng. Deng, who spent 15 years in the NBA, has been a cornerstone of this transformation. His personal story of fleeing war-torn South Sudan as a child, finding refuge in the United Kingdom, and eventually becoming a basketball icon is a testament to resilience and determination. “Since I was born, I have known nothing but conversations about war,” Deng told BBC Sport Africa. “Whenever I was in school, even when I was in the NBA, it was always 'refugees left because of war' and 'war-torn country'. Now we are finding a new story.” A Historic Near Victory The team’s recent near victory against the United States marks a significant milestone in their journey. This game, which saw the Bright Stars narrowly miss a historic win, underscores their growing capability to compete with the best teams globally. It also serves as a powerful symbol of hope and progress for a nation eager for positive change. Luol Deng’s Leadership Luol Deng’s return to South Sudan as the head of the South Sudan Basketball Federation has been pivotal. His leadership and vision have galvanized the team and inspired a new generation of South Sudanese athletes. Deng’s dedication to the team’s success is helping to redefine South Sudan’s international image from one of conflict to one of achievement and potential. As the Bright Stars prepare for the Paris 2024 Olympics, their journey embodies the spirit of resilience and the power of sports to unite and inspire. The near victory over the United States is not just a game; it is a testament to what the team can achieve and a beacon of hope for the future. 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

Wole Soyinka Stars as Wale Ojo in the Cinematic Adaptation of 'The Man Died' Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 31, 2024 ​ The film adaptation of 'The Man Died' is set for a July release, aligning with the celebration of Soyinka's 90th birthday.@flavourway In a landmark moment for Nollywood, seasoned actor Wale Ojo is set to portray the esteemed Nigerian author and Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, in the forthcoming film adaptation of Soyinka's profound memoir, "The Man Died". This autobiographical work, first published in 1972, offers a gripping narrative of Soyinka's harrowing experiences as a political prisoner during the tumultuous Nigerian Civil War in the late 1960s. Renowned for his incisive literary contributions , Soyinka etched his name in history by clinching the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, becoming the first Sub-Saharan African laureate. The announcement of the film's adaptation coincides with Soyinka's 89th birthday celebrations, where Ojo, aged 55, lauded the literary giant on Instagram, describing him as "a rare icon" and acknowledging his indelible impact on the literary world. The film boasts an impressive cast including notable Nollywood figures such as Chidi Mokeme, Sam Dede, Norbert Young, Francis Onwochei, Edmond Enabe, and Segilola Ogidan, alongside emerging talents Simileoluwa Hassan, Christiana Oshunniyi, and Abraham Amkpa. The project is helmed by a distinguished team with Femi Odugbemi as producer, Bode Asiyanbi handling the screenplay, and Awam Amkpa in the director's chair. Scheduled for a July 2024 release, the film aims to commemorate Soyinka's 90th birthday, offering a cinematic tribute to his legacy. This adaptation follows the success of "Elesin Oba, The King's Horseman", a Netflix film based on Soyinka's 1975 play "Death and the King's Horseman", featuring a stellar cast including Odunlade Adekola and Shaffy Bello. Soyinka's literary oeuvre spans across various genres and themes, with notable works such as "The Lion and the Jewel", "The Trials of Brother Jero", "Aké: The Years of Childhood", and "You Must Set Forth at Dawn", continuing to resonate with audiences worldwide. 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 Economy on the Verge of Becoming East Africa's Largest Economy past Kenya. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 23, 2024 ​ Dar es salaam magnificent city of tanzania Surpassing Kenya Tanzania is on track to surpass Kenya as East Africa's largest economy within the next decade, according to projections by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This shift is attributed to Tanzania's impressive economic growth, fueled by its openness to foreign and domestic investments and its strategic partnerships in various sectors including technology, agriculture, mining, and construction. Tanzania's GDP, currently valued at $85.4 billion, is expected to grow to $136 billion by 2028, potentially outpacing Kenya's projected growth to $151 billion in the same period​​​​. Driving Factors Tanzania's rapid economic expansion is largely driven by its government's policies that encourage investment and trade. The nation has fostered relationships with countries and organizations worldwide, enhancing its position as a prime investment destination in Africa. Its commitment to intra-continental trade and efforts to eliminate trade tariffs with East African countries have significantly contributed to its economic momentum. Moreover, Tanzania's collaboration with Kenya on infrastructural projects like cross-border railways further cements its growing economic influence in the region​​. Future Prospects The anticipation of Tanzania overtaking Kenya underscores a broader trend of changing economic dynamics in East Africa. With its economy poised for substantial growth, Tanzania is embracing a more business-friendly environment under President Samia Suluhu Hassan's leadership. This environment is conducive to innovation and positions Tanzania not only as a fast-growing economy on the continent but also as one of Africa's top investment destinations. The country's strategic moves in fostering a conducive economic ecosystem are pivotal to its ascent as a regional economic powerhouse​​​​. Also read our xtrafrica article: Africa dominates list of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024 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

Afcon 2025 Qualifying Draw Set for July 4th in Johannesburg Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 14, 2024 ​ The qualifying draw for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) is scheduled to take place in Johannesburg on July 4th. The 48 competing teams will be divided into 12 groups of four each, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the finals in Morocco. The tournament hosts, Morocco, will be automatically included in the draw. However, as they are already guaranteed qualification, only one team from their group will secure a spot in the finals in North Africa. The exact dates for the 2025 Afcon finals have not yet been announced by the Confederation of African Football (Caf). Initially, Caf had planned to hold the tournament at the end of the European club season, in June-July. However, these dates would coincide with Fifa's inaugural 32-team Club World Cup. Veron Mosengo-Omba, the Caf secretary general, recently acknowledged the challenges of scheduling, describing it as "a nightmare. " He suggested that the 2025 finals might be played in early 2026 to ensure the best interests of the players are considered, addressing concerns about the workload of the continent’s elite players. The qualifiers for the 2025 Afcon will take place in September, October, and November this year . Chad, Eswatini, Liberia, and South Sudan have all progressed through a preliminary round to join the continent's 44 highest-ranked nations in the group draw. 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