Trust in the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) is eroding among opposition politicians, who cite unresolved cases and concerns over the commission's independence and impartiality. National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, known as Bobi Wine, recently withdrew a 2018 case involving the blockade of his concerts and the detention of his music equipment, citing inefficiency and perceived bias. Despite a five-year wait, the case was only heard for the first time recently. "This commission cannot hear it fairly," Kyagulanyi stated in a heated exchange with UHRC Chairperson Mariam Wangadiya. Dr. Kiiza Besigye, a former presidential candidate, also highlighted the commission's inefficiency. His case, filed in 2015 following multiple arrests, remains unresolved nearly a decade later. Similarly, Ingrid Turinawe of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has seen little progress on her 2017 complaint about violent arrest and sexual assault by security personnel. Opposition leaders argue that the UHRC’s slow processes and perceived governmental influence undermine its credibility. "The commission’s failure to handle cases involving opposition figures promptly and impartially calls into question its role as a fair arbiter," Besigye said. To regain trust, critics suggest the UHRC must demonstrate greater independence, expedite case resolutions, and ensure fair treatment for all citizens, irrespective of political affiliation. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 21, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ugandan Opposition leader Robert kyagulanyi Trust in the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) is eroding among opposition politicians, who cite unresolved cases and concerns over the commission's independence and impartiality. National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, known as Bobi Wine, recently withdrew a 2018 case involving the blockade of his concerts and the detention of his music equipment, citing inefficiency and perceived bias. Despite a five-year wait, the case was only heard for the first time recently. ADVERTISEMENT "This commission cannot hear it fairly," Kyagulanyi stated in a heated exchange with UHRC Chairperson Mariam Wangadiya. Dr. Kiiza Besigye, a former presidential candidate, also highlighted the commission's inefficiency. His case, filed in 2015 following multiple arrests, remains unresolved nearly a decade later. Similarly, Ingrid Turinawe of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has seen little progress on her 2017 complaint about violent arrest and sexual assault by security personnel. ADVERTISEMENT Opposition leaders argue that the UHRC’s slow processes and perceived governmental influence undermine its credibility. "The commission’s failure to handle cases involving opposition figures promptly and impartially calls into question its role as a fair arbiter," Besigye said. To regain trust, critics suggest the UHRC must demonstrate greater independence, expedite case resolutions, and ensure fair treatment for all citizens, irrespective of political affiliation. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

U.S. sanctions on the Rwanda Defence Force may block army-owned APR Basketball Club from the Basketball Africa League under OFAC’s 50 Percent Rule. Background: a club rooted in Rwanda’s army Armée Patriotique Rwandaise Basketball Club (APR BBC), nicknamed the "Lions," is one of Rwanda’s oldest basketball teams. Its history and finances are intertwined with the government – the club is owned and funded by the Ministry of Defence of Rwanda. APR emerged from the Rwandan Patriotic Front’s liberation struggle and historically served as a way to engage soldiers during a ceasefire. The Rwandan Ministry of Defence oversees the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), placing APR under the same ministry that commands the country’s military. This military lineage means that any sanctions aimed at the RDF may cascade down to the basketball team. U.S. sanctions and the 50‑Percent Rule On 2 March 2026, the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned the Rwanda Defence Force and four senior officers under the Democratic Republic of the Congo Sanctions Regulations. According to OFAC’s press release, the RDF and its leaders were designated for supporting the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo and for alleged human‑rights abuses. The sanctions freeze all property of the RDF and the listed officers subject to U.S. jurisdiction and bar U.S. persons from engaging in transactions with them. OFAC’s sanctions rules follow the so‑called “50 Percent Rule,” meaning that any entity directly or indirectly owned 50 percent or more by a blocked person is also considered blocked. Law firm Cleary Gottlieb notes that this rule automatically blocks any company majority‑owned by the RDF or other sanctioned persons. Because the Ministry of Defence owns the APR Basketball Club, and the ministry controls the RDF, the sanctions capture the club through ownership. OFAC issued General License No. 1, authorising U.S. persons to wind down transactions involving the RDF and entities it owns until 1 April 2026. After that date, any U.S. company or individual that continues to deal with the RDF or its affiliates risks civil or criminal penalties. Payments to blocked persons must be deposited into blocked accounts. The general licence does not apply to the four individuals listed by OFAC; dealing with them remains prohibited. Impact on the Basketball Africa League The Basketball Africa League (BAL) is a joint venture between the National Basketball Association (NBA) and FIBA, the sport’s global governing body. Though hosted in Africa, the BAL benefits from NBA investment, operational support, and global broadcast distribution. Because the NBA is a U.S. organisation, it must comply with OFAC rules. The sanctions require U.S. persons to block property and interests of the RDF and prohibit transactions with any entities majority‑owned by it. Non‑U.S. persons cannot cause U.S. persons to violate these restrictions, meaning that even international partners working on the BAL must avoid facilitating transactions on behalf of the RDF or its affiliates. APR’s participation in the BAL involves U.S. connections at multiple levels. U.S. firms provide broadcasting and sponsorship, the league is partly managed from New York, and NBA employees serve as executives. Under OFAC’s “facilitation” rules, U.S. entities are generally prohibited from providing services or making payments to blocked persons. This restriction could prevent the NBA, its broadcasters, and sponsors from paying appearance fees, travel expenses, or prize money to APR. It may also preclude the BAL from arranging visas for APR players or scheduling games in which a sanctioned entity would receive value. Potential consequences for APR Continue Reading Full Article SPORTS TRENDS EXPLAINED: APR Basketball Club at Risk After RDF Sanctions By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Mar 12, 2026 May 15, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Background: a club rooted in Rwanda’s army Armée Patriotique Rwandaise Basketball Club (APR BBC), nicknamed the "Lions," is one of Rwanda’s oldest basketball teams. Its history and finances are intertwined with the government – the club is owned and funded by the Ministry of Defence of Rwanda. APR emerged from the Rwandan Patriotic Front’s liberation struggle and historically served as a way to engage soldiers during a ceasefire. The Rwandan Ministry of Defence oversees the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), placing APR under the same ministry that commands the country’s military. This military lineage means that any sanctions aimed at the RDF may cascade down to the basketball team. U.S. sanctions and the 50‑Percent Rule On 2 March 2026, the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned the Rwanda Defence Force and four senior officers under the Democratic Republic of the Congo Sanctions Regulations. According to OFAC’s press release, the RDF and its leaders were designated for supporting the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo and for alleged human‑rights abuses. The sanctions freeze all property of the RDF and the listed officers subject to U.S. jurisdiction and bar U.S. persons from engaging in transactions with them. OFAC’s sanctions rules follow the so‑called “50 Percent Rule,” meaning that any entity directly or indirectly owned 50 percent or more by a blocked person is also considered blocked. Law firm Cleary Gottlieb notes that this rule automatically blocks any company majority‑owned by the RDF or other sanctioned persons. Because the Ministry of Defence owns the APR Basketball Club, and the ministry controls the RDF, the sanctions capture the club through ownership. ADVERTISEMENT OFAC issued General License No. 1, authorising U.S. persons to wind down transactions involving the RDF and entities it owns until 1 April 2026. After that date, any U.S. company or individual that continues to deal with the RDF or its affiliates risks civil or criminal penalties. Payments to blocked persons must be deposited into blocked accounts. The general licence does not apply to the four individuals listed by OFAC; dealing with them remains prohibited. Impact on the Basketball Africa League The Basketball Africa League (BAL) is a joint venture between the National Basketball Association (NBA) and FIBA, the sport’s global governing body. Though hosted in Africa, the BAL benefits from NBA investment, operational support, and global broadcast distribution. Because the NBA is a U.S. organisation, it must comply with OFAC rules. The sanctions require U.S. persons to block property and interests of the RDF and prohibit transactions with any entities majority‑owned by it. Non‑U.S. persons cannot cause U.S. persons to violate these restrictions, meaning that even international partners working on the BAL must avoid facilitating transactions on behalf of the RDF or its affiliates. APR’s participation in the BAL involves U.S. connections at multiple levels. U.S. firms provide broadcasting and sponsorship, the league is partly managed from New York, and NBA employees serve as executives. Under OFAC’s “facilitation” rules, U.S. entities are generally prohibited from providing services or making payments to blocked persons. This restriction could prevent the NBA, its broadcasters, and sponsors from paying appearance fees, travel expenses, or prize money to APR. It may also preclude the BAL from arranging visas for APR players or scheduling games in which a sanctioned entity would receive value. ADVERTISEMENT Potential consequences for APR Given that APR is owned by the Ministry of Defence and thus indirectly by the sanctioned RDF, the team effectively becomes a blocked entity under the 50 Percent Rule . Once the wind‑down period expires on 1 April 2026, U.S. persons will be barred from “facilitating any travel or payments” involving the team. If the BAL admitted APR after that date, the NBA and its partners could be accused of violating U.S. sanctions. The result is that APR may be forced out of the tournament unless it can sever its ties to the Ministry of Defence or secure a licence from OFAC, a highly unlikely outcome given the gravity of the sanctions. Rwanda’s basketball federation could nominate an alternative club to represent the country in the BAL. Two leading candidates are Rwanda Energy Group (REG), BBC, owned by the national energy utility, and the RSSB Tigers BBC, both of which compete in the Rwanda Basketball League. Because these teams are not owned by the Ministry of Defence, they would not fall under OFAC sanctions, making them viable replacements. As of this writing, there has been no official announcement by the BAL or the Rwanda Basketball Federation, but regional sports commentators have speculated about a replacement should APR be ruled ineligible. Legal and political ramifications The sanctions highlight the complexities of sports partnerships in geopolitically sensitive regions. The BAL has promoted itself as a pan‑African league that offers a pathway to professional opportunities while attracting global investment. Yet its reliance on a U.S. organisation makes it vulnerable to U.S. foreign‑policy decisions. The RDF sanctions underscore that teams with governmental or military ownership may expose leagues to legal risks far beyond their borders. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Jobs and Employment Kyerwa District Opens 8 Government Jobs — Form IV Eligible . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . Visa and Entry Updates US B1/B2 Visa Revocations: What Africans Need to Know . For Rwanda, an APR ban would be a symbolic setback. The club is a source of national pride, and playing home games at Kigali’s BK Arena in front of visiting NBA and FIBA officials is a key feature of the BAL’s marketing. Losing APR could also deprive local fans of seeing a Rwandan team compete on a continental stage. On the other hand, allowing an army‑owned team to participate after the United States designated the RDF for human‑rights abuses could tarnish the league’s reputation and jeopardise its relationship with sponsors and broadcasters. Conclusion APR Basketball Club’s close ties to the Rwanda Defence Force put it squarely in the crosshairs of U.S. sanctions. OFAC’s 50 Percent Rule means that the club is considered a blocked entity, and the general licence allowing wind‑down transactions expires on 1 April 2026 . Because the BAL is partly operated by the NBA, a U.S. organisation, continuing to work with APR after that date would likely violate U.S. sanctions laws. Unless the club can dissociate from the Ministry of Defence, a remote possibility, or obtain special authorisation, APR appears destined to be sidelined from the 2026 BAL season. Rwanda’s basketball authorities may need to pivot to civilian‑owned teams like REG or the Tigers to maintain the country’s presence in the league and preserve the BAL’s reputation as a legally compliant, pan‑African competition. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Jobs and Employment Kyerwa District Opens 8 Government Jobs — Form IV Eligible Kyerwa District Council has 8 Tanzania government jobs for secretaries and drivers. See qualifications, . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform The three-month process will reach all 26 provinces and seek consensus on peace, cohesion and . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . Tags Featured News Featured News Rwanda Rwanda

Congolese film *Rumba Royale* joins Montreal’s 2026 International Black Film Festival, bringing Kinshasa’s cinema and rumba to Canada. Congolese cinema is heading to Montreal as Rumba Royale earns a place at the 2026 Montreal International Black Film Festival. According to the Congolese Press Agency , the production team announced the selection on August 3, describing it as an important step for the international visibility of films made in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The film’s official project page also lists Rumba Royale as an official selection and Québec premiere at the Montreal festival. The event’s 22nd edition will take place in person and online from September 23 to 27, 2026. For the artists, technicians and partners behind the production, the moment carries a message larger than one film: stories created in Kinshasa can travel, connect with international audiences and claim space on major cultural platforms. A Congolese story made in Kinshasa Rumba Royale is a 97-minute historical thriller set in Léopoldville, now Kinshasa, in 1959 as the country moved closer to independence. The story follows Daniel, a young photographer who documents the energy of the Rumba Royale nightclub. His romance with Olive, a waitress who dreams of becoming a midwife, unfolds amid music, political tension and the changing social atmosphere of a city approaching a defining moment in its history. When Daniel is accused of murder following a disappearance, the film turns into a search for truth and justice against the rhythm of a capital preparing for change. The production was filmed entirely in Kinshasa with a Congolese technical team. It was co-directed by Congolese filmmaker Yohane Dean Lengol and Belgian-Iranian filmmaker Hamed Mobasser. Fally Ipupa plays Daniel in his first major film role, alongside Mélanie Bokata as Olive. The cast also includes Cécile Djunga, Patrick Kabundi, Hénoc Kiyombo and Olivier Loustau. Continue Reading Full Article FESTIVALS AND EVENTS Congolese Film *Rumba Royale* Selected for Montreal Festival By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Aug 3, 2026 Aug 5, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Congolese cinema is heading to Montreal as Rumba Royale earns a place at the 2026 Montreal International Black Film Festival. According to the Congolese Press Agency , the production team announced the selection on August 3, describing it as an important step for the international visibility of films made in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The film’s official project page also lists Rumba Royale as an official selection and Québec premiere at the Montreal festival. The event’s 22nd edition will take place in person and online from September 23 to 27, 2026. For the artists, technicians and partners behind the production, the moment carries a message larger than one film: stories created in Kinshasa can travel, connect with international audiences and claim space on major cultural platforms. A Congolese story made in Kinshasa Rumba Royale is a 97-minute historical thriller set in Léopoldville, now Kinshasa, in 1959 as the country moved closer to independence. ADVERTISEMENT The story follows Daniel, a young photographer who documents the energy of the Rumba Royale nightclub. His romance with Olive, a waitress who dreams of becoming a midwife, unfolds amid music, political tension and the changing social atmosphere of a city approaching a defining moment in its history. When Daniel is accused of murder following a disappearance, the film turns into a search for truth and justice against the rhythm of a capital preparing for change. The production was filmed entirely in Kinshasa with a Congolese technical team. It was co-directed by Congolese filmmaker Yohane Dean Lengol and Belgian-Iranian filmmaker Hamed Mobasser. Fally Ipupa plays Daniel in his first major film role, alongside Mélanie Bokata as Olive. The cast also includes Cécile Djunga, Patrick Kabundi, Hénoc Kiyombo and Olivier Loustau. From Congolese rumba to the international screen The Montreal selection carries particular cultural meaning because rumba is not simply the film’s soundtrack. It is part of the story, the setting and the identity of the world portrayed on screen. ADVERTISEMENT Congolese rumba has travelled across generations and continents , carrying stories of love, freedom, daily life and national identity. Its recognition by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2021 strengthened its place as one of the DRC’s most important cultural contributions to the world. By placing rumba at the centre of a historical thriller, Rumba Royale allows international audiences to experience Congolese culture through cinema as well as music. It also presents Kinshasa as more than a location. The city becomes a character in the film, a place of creativity, political awakening, fashion, nightlife and ambition during the final years of colonial rule. A proud moment for Congolese film professionals The selection gives international exposure not only to the actors and directors, but also to the Congolese camera crews, designers, technicians and other professionals whose work made the production possible. For the DRC’s growing film industry, that visibility can help create new connections with festivals, distributors, producers and audiences outside the country. It can also encourage more investment in stories told from Congolese perspectives. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Justice & Crime Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Transport and Airlines KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Sports Trends Gobena Sets Sydney Record as Jepchirchir Wins Women’s Race . International Justice FBI Sends Tinubu Records to US Judge for Private Review . Justice & Crime Three More Arrested in Dr Victoria Mutiso Murder Probe . The production team expressed hope that the Montreal appearance will help open doors for more Congolese films on the international stage. “From Kinshasa to Montreal, rumba now resonates internationally,” the team said in its message announcing the selection. The Montreal International Black Film Festival says its mission is to support independent filmmaking and give wider visibility to films exploring Black experiences around the world. That makes the festival a natural platform for a production combining Congolese history, music, romance and political transformation. The complete public screening schedule, ticket information and presentation time for Rumba Royale have not yet been announced. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny RTN footage and new reporting add arrests and Russian support to the official Base 101 account. . Transport and Airlines KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports Passengers should confirm departing flights with airlines as KAA manages disruptions . Sports Trends Gobena Sets Sydney Record as Jepchirchir Wins Women’s Race Ethiopia’s Addisu Gobena broke the course record as Kenya’s Peres Jepchirchir claimed her fourth major . International Justice FBI Sends Tinubu Records to US Judge for Private Review The sealed FOIA filing is not public and makes no new finding against Nigeria’s president. . Tags Breaking News Breaking News DRC Youths DRC Youths DR.Congo DR.Congo

Tiffany Pollard says Nicki Minaj’s recent political rhetoric has disappointed members of the LGBTQ+ community. Reality television personality Tiffany Pollard has publicly criticized rapper Nicki Minaj , saying the artist has disappointed members of the LGBTQ+ community due to her recent political statements. Speaking to TMZ in West Hollywood earlier this week, Pollard — who recently came out as queer and non-binary — said Minaj’s political involvement and rhetoric have alienated some of her longtime LGBTQ+ supporters. Pollard acknowledged that many in the community continue to appreciate Minaj’s music but expressed concern over what she described as a shift in the rapper’s public messaging. Pollard said she does not believe Minaj should be excluded from the entertainment industry but suggested the artist engage with more progressive voices. She referenced musician Bruce Springsteen, noting his public criticism of forme r President Donald Trump , as an example of a figure Minaj could learn from. Minaj has recently praised Trump’s agenda and appeared at a Turning Point USA event, where she drew attention after mistakenly referring to U.S. Senator J.D. Vance as an “assassin,” rather than a politician. Pollard also spoke about her own experience coming out and shared her views on celebrities speaking openly about politics, emphasizing the impact public figures can have on marginalized communities. Nicki Minaj has not publicly responded to Pollard’s remarks. Source: TMZ Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Tiffany Pollard Says Nicki Minaj Disappointed LGBTQ+ Fans By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jan 24, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Reality television personality Tiffany Pollard has publicly criticized rapper Nicki Minaj , saying the artist has disappointed members of the LGBTQ+ community due to her recent political statements. Speaking to TMZ in West Hollywood earlier this week, Pollard — who recently came out as queer and non-binary — said Minaj’s political involvement and rhetoric have alienated some of her longtime LGBTQ+ supporters. Pollard acknowledged that many in the community continue to appreciate Minaj’s music but expressed concern over what she described as a shift in the rapper’s public messaging. ADVERTISEMENT Pollard said she does not believe Minaj should be excluded from the entertainment industry but suggested the artist engage with more progressive voices. She referenced musician Bruce Springsteen, noting his public criticism of forme r President Donald Trump , as an example of a figure Minaj could learn from. Minaj has recently praised Trump’s agenda and appeared at a Turning Point USA event, where she drew attention after mistakenly referring to U.S. Senator J.D. Vance as an “assassin,” rather than a politician. ADVERTISEMENT Pollard also spoke about her own experience coming out and shared her views on celebrities speaking openly about politics, emphasizing the impact public figures can have on marginalized communities. Nicki Minaj has not publicly responded to Pollard’s remarks. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . Source: TMZ ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

Explore Himba food and daily life in Namibia, from maize porridge and sour milk to cattle culture, family labor, ceremonies, and change. Food in Himba life is not only about eating. It is about cattle, family work, dry seasons, movement, memory, and survival in one of Namibia’s most demanding landscapes. The Himba, also called OvaHimba, live mainly in northwestern Namibia’s Kunene region, especially Kaokoland. University field research on the Himba describes them as pastoralists whose lives are shaped by cattle, goats, sheep, small gardens, and the arid environment around them. In this world, food is practical, but it is also cultural. A bowl of maize porridge with milk can say a lot about land, labor, gender, wealth, and change. What Do the Himba Eat? The best-supported sources show that Himba food is built around maize porridge, milk or sour milk, and livestock products. A University of Pretoria repository chapter on the Himba and Zemba states that the Himba diet consists mainly of porridge made from maize meal and milk. It also notes that leftover milk may be churned into butter, while goat and sheep meat are more common than beef in everyday meals. This matters because cattle are not just meat. Among the Himba, cattle are wealth, status, and part of spiritual life. They provide milk, mark social value, and appear in ceremonies. So while beef is part of Himba food culture, it is usually eaten sparingly, especially because cattle represent the wealth of a family or clan. Maize Porridge: The Everyday Staple A common mistake is to describe Himba food as only meat and milk. That is too simple. David Crandall’s article record, “The importance of maize among the OvaHimba ”, notes that maize is the real staple food of the Himba, even though milk and meat carry a stronger cultural idea of proper nourishment. In daily life, maize porridge is central because it is more available than meat and often easier to depend on than milk during hard seasons. This creates an interesting cultural contrast. Cattle herding is highly valued and connected to men’s work, wealth, and prestige. Maize cultivation and preparation are more closely linked to women’s labor. So the food people eat most often may not always be the food with the highest symbolic status. Milk, Sour Milk, and Cattle Milk is one of the most important foods in Himba life. It comes from cattle and sometimes small livestock, and it is part of the pastoral rhythm of the homestead. The University of Pretoria chapter describes women rising early and cattle being milked before animals are taken out to graze. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Himba Food and Daily Life By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 16, 2026 Jun 16, 2026 8 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Food in Himba life is not only about eating. It is about cattle, family work, dry seasons, movement, memory, and survival in one of Namibia’s most demanding landscapes. The Himba, also called OvaHimba, live mainly in northwestern Namibia’s Kunene region, especially Kaokoland. University field research on the Himba describes them as pastoralists whose lives are shaped by cattle, goats, sheep, small gardens, and the arid environment around them. In this world, food is practical, but it is also cultural. A bowl of maize porridge with milk can say a lot about land, labor, gender, wealth, and change. What Do the Himba Eat? The best-supported sources show that Himba food is built around maize porridge, milk or sour milk, and livestock products. A University of Pretoria repository chapter on the Himba and Zemba states that the Himba diet consists mainly of porridge made from maize meal and milk. It also notes that leftover milk may be churned into butter, while goat and sheep meat are more common than beef in everyday meals. This matters because cattle are not just meat. Among the Himba, cattle are wealth, status, and part of spiritual life. They provide milk, mark social value, and appear in ceremonies. So while beef is part of Himba food culture, it is usually eaten sparingly, especially because cattle represent the wealth of a family or clan. Maize Porridge: The Everyday Staple A HIMBA woman carefully prepares traditional posho from corn flour over an open fire A common mistake is to describe Himba food as only meat and milk. That is too simple. David Crandall’s article record, “The importance of maize among the OvaHimba ”, notes that maize is the real staple food of the Himba, even though milk and meat carry a stronger cultural idea of proper nourishment. In daily life, maize porridge is central because it is more available than meat and often easier to depend on than milk during hard seasons. maize porridge is central because it is more available than meat and often easier to depend on amongest the Himba This creates an interesting cultural contrast. Cattle herding is highly valued and connected to men’s work, wealth, and prestige. Maize cultivation and preparation are more closely linked to women’s labor. So the food people eat most often may not always be the food with the highest symbolic status. ADVERTISEMENT Milk, Sour Milk, and Cattle Milk is one of the most important foods in Himba life. It comes from cattle and sometimes small livestock, and it is part of the pastoral rhythm of the homestead. The University of Pretoria chapter describes women rising early and cattle being milked before animals are taken out to graze. Sour milk is especially important in Himba food culture. Recent research on drought among Himba pastoralists found that drought reduced sour milk intake and increased reliance on nontraditional foods. That finding shows how closely food culture depends on livestock health. When cattle suffer, the household diet changes too. Milk is one of the most important foods in Himba life Cattle are therefore both practical and symbolic. They provide milk, but they also represent continuity. A homestead without cattle is not simply missing animals; it is missing part of what makes daily Himba life feel complete. Meat and Ceremony Meat is part of Himba food, but not always in the way outsiders imagine. Goat and sheep meat are more likely to appear in ordinary household use than beef. Cattle may be slaughtered for major ceremonies, including weddings and funerals, according to the University of Pretoria chapter. This gives meat a layered meaning. It can feed people, but it can also mark an important social moment. In a culture where cattle carry wealth and ancestral meaning, slaughtering an animal is not a casual act. It is tied to family, ritual, and status. ADVERTISEMENT Women’s Work and Daily Food Himba food culture depends heavily on women’s labor . Women are linked to maize processing, butter churning, collecting water, gathering firewood, and caring for children. These tasks are not small background details. They are the daily structure that makes household food possible. The same University of Pretoria chapter describes women making flour from maize and churning butter, while men and boys herd cattle to grazing areas and water points. Food therefore reveals how daily life is organized. Herding, milking, grinding, cooking, and moving with animals are all part of one system. Gardens, Wild Foods, and the Dry Land The Himba are often described as pastoralists, but pastoral life does not mean livestock alone. The University of Sheffield fieldsite notes that Himba households herd cattle, goats, and sheep, while women grow maize and sorghum during the rainy season. It also records some foraging, mainly for nuts and honey, though hunting is now prohibited in Kaokoland. Himba women proudly display fresh vegetables harvested from a thriving community garden in Namibia, highlighting local food production and sustainability. Credit: © Wilderness Destinations Bollig’s research on Himba pastoral risk also shows that households combine herd products with field produce such as maize, millet, melons, and pumpkins. This mix helps explain how Himba food systems respond to a harsh environment. Livestock are central, but gardens, gathered foods, and exchange also matter. Food, Drought, and Change Modern Himba food culture is changing. Drought is one of the strongest pressures. A study by Sean Prall and Brooke Scelza on the dietary impacts of drought in a traditional pastoralist economy found rising food insecurity, reduced diet breadth, lower sour milk intake, and more reliance on nontraditional foods among Himba pastoralists. Meat and maize consumption did not change in the same way, but the loss of sour milk was important because sour milk has strong cultural and nutritional value. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW Hadza Gender Roles Beyond Men Hunt, Women Gather . African Culture How the Himba Prepare Otjize, Namibia's Iconic Red Ochre Paste . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . African Culture Himba Language: What Is OtjiHimba and How Is It Connected to Herero? . African Culture POPULAR TODAY African Culture Hadza Gender Roles Beyond Men Hunt, Women Gather . African Culture How the Himba Prepare Otjize, Namibia's Iconic Red Ochre Paste . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . African Culture Himba Language: What Is OtjiHimba and How Is It Connected to Herero? . African Culture Himba Food and Daily Life . A recent Sustainability journal article on Himba cultural change also records Himba respondents describing shifts toward modern foods, reduced use of wild foods, and greater difficulty maintaining pastoral life after livestock losses. These changes should not be treated as the same everywhere. Some Himba communities remain more strongly pastoral, while others are closer to towns, schools, tourism, and markets. A Living Food Culture Himba food is often described in a few quick phrases: maize porridge, sour milk, meat. Those phrases are true, but they are not enough. Food is part of the whole rhythm of Himba life. Cattle must be watered and moved. Milk must be collected. Maize must be grown, ground, and cooked. Butter may be churned. Goats and sheep may be used for meat. Ceremonies may call for animal slaughter. Drought may force families toward gardens, markets, relief food, or town life. So Himba food is not frozen in the past. It is a living culture shaped by land, animals, family labor, climate pressure, and modern change. To understand Himba food well, we have to see both the bowl and the world around it. Sources & Further Reference University of Pretoria – The Himba and Zemba People of Namibia download the book here David P. Crandall – The Importance of Maize Among the OvaHimba Michael Bollig – Risk and Risk Minimisation among Himba Pastoralists in Northwestern Namibia Sean Prall & Brooke Scelza – The Dietary Impacts of Drought in a Traditional Pastoralist Economy Sustainability Journal – Cultural and Land-Use Change Among the Himba ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE African Culture Hadza Gender Roles Beyond Men Hunt, Women Gather A closer look at Hadza food, family, movement, and gendered work . African Culture How the Himba Prepare Otjize, Namibia's Iconic Red Ochre Paste A sourced guide to Namibia’s famous red ochre paste and its cultural meaning . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress What otjize, jewelry, hairstyles, and clothing represent in Himba culture . African Culture Himba Language: What Is OtjiHimba and How Is It Connected to Herero? A simple guide to OtjiHimba, OtjiHerero, and the Himba-Herero language connection . Tags Namibia Namibia Himba Tribe Himba Tribe African Culture African Culture

Explore the African tribes of Ethiopia’s Omo Valley rich cultures, ancient traditions, and timeless lifestyles await discovery. Nestled in the remote reaches of southern Ethiopia, the Omo Valley is not just a geographical location; it's a vibrant canvas of human history and culture. Home to an astonishing array of tribes, each with their own unique customs, languages, and traditions, the Omo Valley offers a rare glimpse into ways of life that have been preserved over millennia. This blog post invites you on an enlightening journey to explore these captivating tribes, whose fascinating lifestyles and traditions beckon with the allure of discovery. A Closer Look at the Mursi’s Lip Plate Tradition The custom of wearing a lip plate among the Mursi tribe of Ethiopia is a profound cultural expression linked to a woman's fertility and eligibility for marriage. When a Mursi girl reaches puberty, around the age of 15 to 16, she undergoes a significant rite of passage orchestrated by a female elder of the tribe. Her lower lip is carefully cut and initially stretched with a small wooden stick, marking her transition towards womanhood. Over time, larger plates replace the stick, symbolizing not only her readiness for marriage but also her social and economic value within the community. This practice, deeply embedded in the traditions of the Mursi, serves as both a personal and communal emblem of identity, beauty, and resilience. The Kaleidoscope of Cultures The Omo Valley is a veritable mosaic of ethnic diversity, hosting over a dozen distinct tribes. Among them are the Hamar, known for their bull-jumping ceremonies a rite of passage for young men; the Mursi, famed for their lip plates and intricate body paintings; and the Karo, who engage in elaborate body art to enhance their physical appeal and social status. Each tribe, with its own artistic expressions and social norms, offers a window into the human spirit's adaptability and artistry. Living Museums of Tradition Visiting the Omo Valley is like stepping into a living museum. The tribes here continue to live in close harmony with nature, their lifestyles beautifully synchronized with the rhythms of the environment. Their traditional practices, such as cattle herding, flood retreat cultivation, and ritualistic dances, are not just surviving but thriving, offering insights into sustainable living that the modern world can learn from. Festivals of Life and Color Imagine the vibrancy of the Donga stick-fighting festival of the Surma tribe or the evocative Evangadi night dancing of the Hamar people. These festivals are not mere spectacles but deep expressions of identity and communal bonds. Each event is a pulsating display of vigor, color, and sound, inviting the observer to experience the depth of human emotions and communal connections. A Photographer’s and Anthropologist's Paradise Continue Reading Full Article Inside the African Tribes of Omo Valley: Culture and Tradition By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jun 26, 2025 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nestled in the remote reaches of southern Ethiopia, the Omo Valley is not just a geographical location; it's a vibrant canvas of human history and culture. Home to an astonishing array of tribes, each with their own unique customs, languages, and traditions, the Omo Valley offers a rare glimpse into ways of life that have been preserved over millennia. This blog post invites you on an enlightening journey to explore these captivating tribes, whose fascinating lifestyles and traditions beckon with the allure of discovery. A Closer Look at the Mursi’s Lip Plate Tradition The custom of wearing a lip plate is linked to the female's fertility and eligibility for marriage The custom of wearing a lip plate among the Mursi tribe of Ethiopia is a profound cultural expression linked to a woman's fertility and eligibility for marriage. When a Mursi girl reaches puberty, around the age of 15 to 16, she undergoes a significant rite of passage orchestrated by a female elder of the tribe. Her lower lip is carefully cut and initially stretched with a small wooden stick, marking her transition towards womanhood. Over time, larger plates replace the stick, symbolizing not only her readiness for marriage but also her social and economic value within the community. This practice, deeply embedded in the traditions of the Mursi, serves as both a personal and communal emblem of identity, beauty, and resilience. The Kaleidoscope of Cultures The Omo Valley is a veritable mosaic of ethnic diversity, hosting over a dozen distinct tribes. Among them are the Hamar, known for their bull-jumping ceremonies a rite of passage for young men; the Mursi, famed for their lip plates and intricate body paintings; and the Karo, who engage in elaborate body art to enhance their physical appeal and social status. Each tribe, with its own artistic expressions and social norms, offers a window into the human spirit's adaptability and artistry. ADVERTISEMENT Omo happy tribes children - Southern Ethiopia, East Africa Living Museums of Tradition Visiting the Omo Valley is like stepping into a living museum. The tribes here continue to live in close harmony with nature, their lifestyles beautifully synchronized with the rhythms of the environment. Their traditional practices, such as cattle herding, flood retreat cultivation, and ritualistic dances, are not just surviving but thriving, offering insights into sustainable living that the modern world can learn from. Festivals of Life and Color Imagine the vibrancy of the Donga stick-fighting festival of the Surma tribe or the evocative Evangadi night dancing of the Hamar people. These festivals are not mere spectacles but deep expressions of identity and communal bonds. Each event is a pulsating display of vigor, color, and sound, inviting the observer to experience the depth of human emotions and communal connections. A Photographer’s and Anthropologist's Paradise For photographers and anthropologists, the Omo Valley is an uncharted treasure trove. The striking visual elements of tribal attire, from the ornate body paintings to the elaborate adornments, make every snapshot a masterpiece of cultural expression. Meanwhile, the social interactions and traditional practices provide endless opportunities for research and understanding, offering deeper insights into the resilience and richness of human cultures. ADVERTISEMENT The Call of the Wild The allure of the Omo Valley extends beyond human culture into the wild landscapes that frame the lives of these tribes. The region is teeming with biodiversity, including rare and endemic species, which coexist with the tribal communities. This interdependence highlights a profound lesson in conservation and respect for nature that resonates deeply in today’s ecologically sensitive world. Why Visit the Omo Valley? Embarking on a journey to the Omo Valley is not just about witnessing an exotic tableau of human diversity. It is about experiencing a profound connection with our collective human heritage. It's a reminder of the myriad ways in which human creativity and adaptability manifest under varied circumstances. For those yearning for travel that enlightens and inspires, the Omo Valley is not just a destination; it's a transformative experience. Conclusion The tribes of the Omo Valley offer more than just a peek into ancient cultures; they provide a mirror reflecting the diversity, resilience, and beauty of the human race. As the world moves forward, these tribes stand as guardians of our shared past, reminding us of the richness in diversity and the bonds that link us to our environment. Whether you're an avid traveller, a culture enthusiast, or simply a curious soul, the Omo Valley beckons with promises of revelations and awe-inspiring encounters. So, are you ready to answer the call? ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY African Culture Disability-Selective Infanticide: The Hidden History in Maasailand . African Culture Zee Nxumalo Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise . African Culture Wendy Shay Biography: Age, Nursing Career, Songs & AFRIMA Win . African Culture Vinka Biography: Real Name, Songs, Family & Music Career . African Culture Vestine & Dorcas Biography: Ages, Family, Songs & Career . Embark on this adventure, and let the Omo Valley transform your understanding of the world and your place within it. This isn't just a trip; it's a pilgrimage back to the roots of human civilization. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE African Culture Disability-Selective Infanticide: The Hidden History in Maasailand Field evidence exposes a history of killing, abandonment and neglect and the Maasai resisting it . African Culture Zee Nxumalo Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise Meet Zee Nxumalo: her age, real name, songs, awards and journey from viral covers to amapiano stardom. . African Culture Wendy Shay Biography: Age, Nursing Career, Songs & AFRIMA Win Discover Wendy Shay’s age, Ghana-Germany story, nursing career, albums, songs and awards. . African Culture Vinka Biography: Real Name, Songs, Family & Music Career Discover Vinka’s real name, family, hit songs, awards and journey from dancer to Ugandan star. . Tags African culture African culture Africa Africa

Chris Rea, the British singer-songwriter behind ‘Driving Home for Christmas,’ has died at 73 following a short illness. British singer and songwriter Chris Rea , best known for the seasonal classic Driving Home for Christmas , has died at the age of 73, his family has confirmed. In a statement released on Tuesday, Rea’s wife and two children said the musician died peacefully in hospital following a short illness, surrounded by family members. They described his passing as a moment of “immense sadness” for those closest to him. Rea, born Christopher Anton Rea in Middlesbrough, England, rose to prominence in the late 1970s and 1980s with a string of successful albums and singles. His best-known songs include Fool (If You Think It’s Over) , Let’s Dance , and The Road to Hell , which helped establish him as one of Britain’s distinctive blues-rock voices. Although Driving Home for Christmas was not an immediate hit upon release, it later became one of the UK’s most enduring festive songs, gaining renewed popularity through radio airplay and seasonal charts over the decades. The musician had faced significant health challenges for many years. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2001 and underwent surgery to remove his pancreas. In 2016, he also suffered a stroke, which affected his health in later life. Rea released his debut album, Whatever Happened to Benny Santini? , in 1978. The title referenced a stage name his record label initially wanted him to adopt, a move he later rejected as his career developed. Tributes have begun to emerge from fans and fellow musicians, many highlighting his songwriting, gravelly vocal style, and lasting influence on British rock and blues music. Source: Tribune Online, citing Sky News Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Chris Rea, ‘Driving Home for Christmas’ Singer, Dies at 73 By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 23, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: British singer and songwriter Chris Rea , best known for the seasonal classic Driving Home for Christmas , has died at the age of 73, his family has confirmed. In a statement released on Tuesday, Rea’s wife and two children said the musician died peacefully in hospital following a short illness, surrounded by family members. They described his passing as a moment of “immense sadness” for those closest to him. Rea, born Christopher Anton Rea in Middlesbrough, England, rose to prominence in the late 1970s and 1980s with a string of successful albums and singles. His best-known songs include Fool (If You Think It’s Over) , Let’s Dance , and The Road to Hell , which helped establish him as one of Britain’s distinctive blues-rock voices. ADVERTISEMENT Although Driving Home for Christmas was not an immediate hit upon release, it later became one of the UK’s most enduring festive songs, gaining renewed popularity through radio airplay and seasonal charts over the decades. The musician had faced significant health challenges for many years. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2001 and underwent surgery to remove his pancreas. In 2016, he also suffered a stroke, which affected his health in later life. ADVERTISEMENT Rea released his debut album, Whatever Happened to Benny Santini? , in 1978. The title referenced a stage name his record label initially wanted him to adopt, a move he later rejected as his career developed. Tributes have begun to emerge from fans and fellow musicians, many highlighting his songwriting, gravelly vocal style, and lasting influence on British rock and blues music. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . Source: Tribune Online, citing Sky News ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment U.K U.K

Abba Yusuf’s defection from NNPP to APC is reshaping Kano’s alliances and 2027 calculations, drawing sharp reactions from opposition parties. Kano’s political equation is under fresh strain after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf moved from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), triggering immediate pushback from opposition parties and an angry response from his former platform. The development, which the APC has framed as a major gain ahead of 2027, is being interpreted by rivals as elite realignment that may not translate into votes as Reported by The PUNCH . A defection with unusually high political weight Yusuf is not just any governor in Nigeria’s shifting party landscape. Kano is one of the country’s most politically consequential states, and his victory under the NNPP banner in 2023 was closely tied to the strength of the Kwankwasiyya movement led by former governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. That backdrop is why the NNPP described Yusuf’s exit as a betrayal of the Kano electorate and a direct blow to a political structure that mobilised voters for him. Beyond Yusuf’s personal move, the scale of accompanying defections is central to why the moment is being treated as disruptive. According to statements cited in the report, Yusuf is expected to formalise his APC registration alongside dozens of elected officials across state and federal legislatures and Kano’s local government leadership an organisational shift that can quickly change campaign machinery, patronage networks, and grassroots coordination. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Labour Party (LP) have argued that defections by political office holders should not be confused with voter alignment. Their public line is that electoral strength is ultimately determined at the ballot box, and that governors who switch platforms midstream do not automatically “move” the electorate with them. This argument mirrors a wider national debate about whether the growing trend of cross-party defections reflects genuine ideological convergence or strategic repositioning ahead of 2027. APC calls it validation; critics see a deeper 2027 test APC officials, including party spokesmen quoted in the report, describe Yusuf’s return as a “homecoming” and a sign the party’s agenda is gaining broader acceptance. Opponents counter that the ruling party’s expanding ranks raise questions about competitive balance, especially amid recurring public concerns about whether Nigeria is drifting toward one-party dominance an allegation the presidency and APC leaders have repeatedly denied in other public statements. For broader context on that national argument: The Kwankwasiyya factor: what this could stress-test Continue Reading Full Article POLITICAL SCANDALS Why Abba Yusuf’s APC Switch Is Shaking Kano Politics By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jan 26, 2026 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kano’s political equation is under fresh strain after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf moved from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), triggering immediate pushback from opposition parties and an angry response from his former platform. The development, which the APC has framed as a major gain ahead of 2027, is being interpreted by rivals as elite realignment that may not translate into votes as Reported by The PUNCH . A defection with unusually high political weight Yusuf is not just any governor in Nigeria’s shifting party landscape. Kano is one of the country’s most politically consequential states, and his victory under the NNPP banner in 2023 was closely tied to the strength of the Kwankwasiyya movement led by former governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. That backdrop is why the NNPP described Yusuf’s exit as a betrayal of the Kano electorate and a direct blow to a political structure that mobilised voters for him. Beyond Yusuf’s personal move, the scale of accompanying defections is central to why the moment is being treated as disruptive. According to statements cited in the report, Yusuf is expected to formalise his APC registration alongside dozens of elected officials across state and federal legislatures and Kano’s local government leadership an organisational shift that can quickly change campaign machinery, patronage networks, and grassroots coordination. ADVERTISEMENT The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Labour Party (LP) have argued that defections by political office holders should not be confused with voter alignment. Their public line is that electoral strength is ultimately determined at the ballot box, and that governors who switch platforms midstream do not automatically “move” the electorate with them. ADVERTISEMENT This argument mirrors a wider national debate about whether the growing trend of cross-party defections reflects genuine ideological convergence or strategic repositioning ahead of 2027. APC calls it validation; critics see a deeper 2027 test APC officials, including party spokesmen quoted in the report, describe Yusuf’s return as a “homecoming” and a sign the party’s agenda is gaining broader acceptance. Opponents counter that the ruling party’s expanding ranks raise questions about competitive balance, especially amid recurring public concerns about whether Nigeria is drifting toward one-party dominance an allegation the presidency and APC leaders have repeatedly denied in other public statements. For broader context on that national argument: ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 . Banking and Finance How to Check BVN Without Visiting a Bank . Government Services How to Check Your NIN From Your Phone in 2026 . Students Guide JAMB Result Slip 2026: How to Print It . Students Guide How to Generate JAMB Profile Code With NIN . The Kwankwasiyya factor: what this could stress-test Even for analysts who expect party switching to continue nationwide, Kano is a special case because of how strongly political identity and mobilisation have been shaped by the Kwankwasiyya bloc. If Yusuf’s move weakens the NNPP’s structure in the state, APC could gain organisational advantage. If, however, the movement’s grassroots loyalty holds independently of Yusuf’s position, the defection could become a test of whether Kano voters follow platforms, personalities, or entrenched political networks. A deeper look at the fault lines this creates in Kano’s power structure is also discussed here . What to watch next (without guessing outcomes) Formal registration and attendance: whether national APC figures publicly anchor the “homecoming” narrative in Kano. NNPP’s response strategy: whether the party rallies around Kwankwasiyya structures to show it retains voter loyalty. Opposition coordination: whether PDP/ADC/LP translate rhetorical pushback into practical alliances on the ground. 2027 calculations: whether this becomes a template for further high-profile switches or a cautionary tale if voters punish perceived opportunism. source: The PUNCH report ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 Tinubu orders 500 more CNG stations, but fare cuts depend on state implementation. . Banking and Finance How to Check BVN Without Visiting a Bank Retrieve your 11-digit BVN without visiting a bank by using the official NIBSS *565*0# service from... . Government Services How to Check Your NIN From Your Phone in 2026 Retrieve your 11-digit NIN from your phone using the official *346# service and learn . Students Guide JAMB Result Slip 2026: How to Print It Print or download your official 2026 JAMB result slip through the e-Facility portal using these tricks . Tags Nigeria Gov Services Nigeria Gov Services Africa Africa Nigeria Nigeria The Punch The Punch Nigeria News Nigeria News Nigeria Politics Nigeria Politics

Ethiopia’s election is expected to extend Abiy Ahmed’s mandate amid security concerns and opposition criticism. Ethiopians are voting in a national election expected to give Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s ruling Prosperity Party another strong mandate, with the party widely projected to retain its dominance in parliament, according to an Associated Press report . The election comes as Abiy’s government presents reconciliation and development as central priorities for the next term. Around 50 million people are expected to vote for members of the House of Peoples’ Representatives and regional councils, though insecurity in areas including Amhara and Oromia could affect turnout. Abiy’s Prosperity Party already controls more than 500 seats in the federal legislature and is expected to secure another majority. Under Ethiopia’s parliamentary system, voters elect representatives, who then vote for the prime minister. The vote is also being watched by the African Union , which has deployed an election observation mission led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta. The mission’s presence adds regional attention to a contest taking place in the country that hosts the AU headquarters. Security remains one of the biggest tests for the next mandate. Ethiopia is still dealing with the aftermath of the Tigray war, unrest in Amhara and Oromia, and tensions with Eritrea. Analysts have warned that the election alone is unlikely to resolve the deeper political and security pressures facing the country, especially in regions affected by conflict and exclusion from the vote, as noted in regional analysis by Chatham House. Tigray will not take part in the national election for a second time, leaving the region without federal representation. The Tigray People’s Liberation Front remains outlawed, while the federal government and regional authorities continue to clash over the future of the 2022 peace agreement. Opposition parties have questioned the fairness of the process, saying the ruling party benefits from an uneven political environment. Some candidates say they have faced restrictions on campaigning and meeting voters. For Abiy, the election is not only about retaining office. It is also a bid to renew political authority at a time when Ethiopia faces pressure to rebuild trust, manage unresolved conflicts, and deliver on development promises. Continue Reading Full Article ELECTIONS MONITORING Abiy’s Party Seeks New Mandate in Ethiopia Vote By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 31, 2026 May 31, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ethiopians are voting in a national election expected to give Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s ruling Prosperity Party another strong mandate, with the party widely projected to retain its dominance in parliament, according to an Associated Press report . The election comes as Abiy’s government presents reconciliation and development as central priorities for the next term. Around 50 million people are expected to vote for members of the House of Peoples’ Representatives and regional councils, though insecurity in areas including Amhara and Oromia could affect turnout. Abiy’s Prosperity Party already controls more than 500 seats in the federal legislature and is expected to secure another majority. Under Ethiopia’s parliamentary system, voters elect representatives, who then vote for the prime minister. ADVERTISEMENT The vote is also being watched by the African Union , which has deployed an election observation mission led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta. The mission’s presence adds regional attention to a contest taking place in the country that hosts the AU headquarters. Security remains one of the biggest tests for the next mandate. Ethiopia is still dealing with the aftermath of the Tigray war, unrest in Amhara and Oromia, and tensions with Eritrea. Analysts have warned that the election alone is unlikely to resolve the deeper political and security pressures facing the country, especially in regions affected by conflict and exclusion from the vote, as noted in regional analysis by Chatham House. ADVERTISEMENT Tigray will not take part in the national election for a second time, leaving the region without federal representation. The Tigray People’s Liberation Front remains outlawed, while the federal government and regional authorities continue to clash over the future of the 2022 peace agreement. Opposition parties have questioned the fairness of the process, saying the ruling party benefits from an uneven political environment. Some candidates say they have faced restrictions on campaigning and meeting voters. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW Gobena Sets Sydney Record as Jepchirchir Wins Women’s Race . Sports Trends The Painful Process Behind Suri Scarification . African Culture Meaning Behind Suri Scarification and Body Marking . African Culture Cattle Bloodletting Among the Suri of Ethiopia . African Culture POPULAR TODAY Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . International Relations Ndayishimiye Backs Leopards After Historic Draw With Portugal . For Abiy, the election is not only about retaining office. It is also a bid to renew political authority at a time when Ethiopia faces pressure to rebuild trust, manage unresolved conflicts, and deliver on development promises. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE African Culture Leadership Among the Suri of Ethiopia How elders, age grades, and ritual authority shape Suri public life . African Culture Why Suri Women Wear Lip Plates: The Real Story Beauty, womanhood, marriage, identity, and the truth behind a misunderstood tradition . African Culture How a Suri Boy Gets a Wife Culturally Marriage, donga, bridewealth, and family negotiation among the Suri
 . African Culture Inside the Dangerous World of Suri Donga Stick Fighting A look at courage, danger, ritual combat, and change in southwest Ethiopia . Tags Africa Africa Ethiopia Ethiopia africa africa Elections & Democracy Elections & Democracy

A fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland killed 40 people and injured 119. Authorities investigate cause and safety compliance. At least 30 people were killed when armed men attacked the Kasuwan Daji market in Demo village, Niger State, on 3 January 2026, according to police . The attackers, described by authorities as “bandits,” burned market stalls, looted food and abducted several people before fleeing into the surrounding forest. Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun said the assailants rode motorcycles into the market at about 4:30 p.m. local time, opened fire indiscriminately and set fire to shops. Witness accounts indicate the assault was part of a series of raids that began the previous day in nearby Agwarra and Borgu villages. Residents reported that women and children were among the dead and that the death toll could rise above 40 as bodies are recovered.President Bola Tinubu condemned the attack and ordered Nigeria’s defence chiefs, police and intelligence services to track down those responsible and rescue the abducted victims. In a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the attackers were suspected terrorists fleeing recent airstrikes and vowed they would “face the full consequences” of their crimes.Authorities believe the gunmen came from the National Park Forest along the Kabe district, a known hideout for armed gangs, before attacking the market . Local officials said security forces had been deployed to the area and operations were under way to rescue the abducted residents and restore order . The massacre is part of a broader pattern of banditry in north‑western and central Nigeria, where armed groups target remote communities for looting and ransom. Police and residents noted that the violence began one day after officials announced that schools in Niger State would reopen following the November abduction of more than 300 students from a Catholic school . While the Nigerian government has designated these groups as terrorists and outlawed ransom payments, such kidnappings persist amid reports that some ransoms are still paid. Niger State has been hit particularly hard by this surge in violence. Security forces have struggled to prevent mass killings and kidnappings across the region despite ongoing operations . The latest attack underscores the challenges facing authorities in protecting rural communities and restoring stability Continue Reading Full Article TERRORISM AND SECURITY At least 30 killed in Nigeria market attack,authorities launch manhunt By Sebastiane Ebatamehi Pan-African Analyst & Content Strategist Sebastiane Ebatamehi Home Comment Jan 5, 2026 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: At least 30 people were killed when armed men attacked the Kasuwan Daji market in Demo village, Niger State, on 3 January 2026, according to police . The attackers, described by authorities as “bandits,” burned market stalls, looted food and abducted several people before fleeing into the surrounding forest. Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun said the assailants rode motorcycles into the market at about 4:30 p.m. local time, opened fire indiscriminately and set fire to shops. Witness accounts indicate the assault was part of a series of raids that began the previous day in nearby Agwarra and Borgu villages. Residents reported that women and children were among the dead and that the death toll could rise above 40 as bodies are recovered.President Bola Tinubu condemned the attack and ordered Nigeria’s defence chiefs, police and intelligence services to track down those responsible and rescue the abducted victims. ADVERTISEMENT In a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the attackers were suspected terrorists fleeing recent airstrikes and vowed they would “face the full consequences” of their crimes.Authorities believe the gunmen came from the National Park Forest along the Kabe district, a known hideout for armed gangs, before attacking the market . Local officials said security forces had been deployed to the area and operations were under way to rescue the abducted residents and restore order . The massacre is part of a broader pattern of banditry in north‑western and central Nigeria, where armed groups target remote communities for looting and ransom. Police and residents noted that the violence began one day after officials announced that schools in Niger State would reopen following the November abduction of more than 300 students from a Catholic school . ADVERTISEMENT While the Nigerian government has designated these groups as terrorists and outlawed ransom payments, such kidnappings persist amid reports that some ransoms are still paid. Niger State has been hit particularly hard by this surge in violence. Security forces have struggled to prevent mass killings and kidnappings across the region despite ongoing operations . The latest attack underscores the challenges facing authorities in protecting rural communities and restoring stability ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY International Justice FBI Sends Tinubu Records to US Judge for Private Review . Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 . Sports Trends Ibrahim Gusau Resigns: What Happens Next at the NFF? . Terrorism and Security Nigeria Kidnapping Ransoms Triple to ₦7.78 Billion . Biography Ayyoub Bouaddi Biography: Age, Parents and Man City Move . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE International Justice FBI Sends Tinubu Records to US Judge for Private Review The sealed FOIA filing is not public and makes no new finding against Nigeria’s president. . Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 Tinubu orders 500 more CNG stations, but fare cuts depend on state implementation. . Sports Trends Ibrahim Gusau Resigns: What Happens Next at the NFF? The NFF president confirmed his exit in Abuja, opening a leadership transition. . Terrorism and Security Nigeria Kidnapping Ransoms Triple to ₦7.78 Billion A new SBM Intelligence report says 7,825 people were abducted as mass kidnappings reshaped the crisis. . Tags Nigeria Nigeria BBC NEWS BBC NEWS africa africa

Seun Kuti says Fela allowed his wives to have other partners, addressing long-standing claims about HIV and the late singer’s death Nigerian singer Seun Kuti has made new claims about the personal life of his late father, Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, particularly regarding his relationships and health history. Speaking during an Instagram livestream, Seun Kuti alleged that Fela did not restrict his wives from engaging in relationships with other men. According to him, this approach contributed to complications later in Fela’s life. He further claimed that some of Fela’s partners may have contracted HIV from other relationships and subsequently transmitted it to the musician. This assertion challenges widely held assumptions that Fela was responsible for infecting his partners. Kuti stated that his father believed in mutual freedom within his relationships, allowing his wives to see other partners under certain conditions, including not bringing those relationships into his home. Despite the claims, Seun Kuti described his father as a figure who stood for humanity, while acknowledging that he made personal mistakes. Source: The Sun Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Seun Kuti Speaks on Fela’s Wives, HIV Allegations By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Apr 6, 2026 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian singer Seun Kuti has made new claims about the personal life of his late father, Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, particularly regarding his relationships and health history. Speaking during an Instagram livestream, Seun Kuti alleged that Fela did not restrict his wives from engaging in relationships with other men. According to him, this approach contributed to complications later in Fela’s life. He further claimed that some of Fela’s partners may have contracted HIV from other relationships and subsequently transmitted it to the musician. This assertion challenges widely held assumptions that Fela was responsible for infecting his partners. ADVERTISEMENT Kuti stated that his father believed in mutual freedom within his relationships, allowing his wives to see other partners under certain conditions, including not bringing those relationships into his home. Despite the claims, Seun Kuti described his father as a figure who stood for humanity, while acknowledging that he made personal mistakes. ADVERTISEMENT Source: The Sun Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

EFCC arrests six suspects in Akwa Ibom for defrauding a victim of ₦6 million in a fake land deal. More accomplices still at large. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested six suspects in Akwa Ibom State for allegedly defrauding a victim of ₦6,000,000 in a fake land deal. According to the EFCC’s Uyo Zonal Directorate, the suspects are Enobong Clement Etim (alias Edet Nsem Udo), Iniakop Okot, Emmanuel Edet, Essien Edet Aniedi, Christopher Anthony, and Edwin Etim. The Fraud Investigators said the suspects posed as landowners and presented forged documents to a buyer, Aniekan Etukudo Koffi, who believed he was purchasing land in Ifa Ikot Ubo, Ifa Ikot Okpon–Etoi, Uyo Local Government Area. The victim reportedly paid ₦6 million, including ₦4 million transferred to a UBA account linked to the prime suspect, before discovering the deal was fraudulent. Preliminary findings confirmed the land did not belong to the syndicate. Next Steps The EFCC said efforts are ongoing to recover the stolen money and arrest more accomplices. The six suspects will be charged in court soon. Source: EFCC, Media & Publicity, September 29, 2025 JUSTICE & CRIME EFCC Arrests Six in ₦6 Million Land Fraud Case in Uyo By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Oct 2, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested six suspects in Akwa Ibom State for allegedly defrauding a victim of ₦6,000,000 in a fake land deal. According to the EFCC’s Uyo Zonal Directorate, the suspects are Enobong Clement Etim (alias Edet Nsem Udo), Iniakop Okot, Emmanuel Edet, Essien Edet Aniedi, Christopher Anthony, and Edwin Etim. ADVERTISEMENT The Fraud Investigators said the suspects posed as landowners and presented forged documents to a buyer, Aniekan Etukudo Koffi, who believed he was purchasing land in Ifa Ikot Ubo, Ifa Ikot Okpon–Etoi, Uyo Local Government Area. The victim reportedly paid ₦6 million, including ₦4 million transferred to a UBA account linked to the prime suspect, before discovering the deal was fraudulent. Preliminary findings confirmed the land did not belong to the syndicate. ADVERTISEMENT Next Steps The EFCC said efforts are ongoing to recover the stolen money and arrest more accomplices. The six suspects will be charged in court soon. Source: EFCC, Media & Publicity, September 29, 2025 ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY International Justice FBI Sends Tinubu Records to US Judge for Private Review . Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 . Sports Trends Ibrahim Gusau Resigns: What Happens Next at the NFF? . Terrorism and Security Nigeria Kidnapping Ransoms Triple to ₦7.78 Billion . Biography Ayyoub Bouaddi Biography: Age, Parents and Man City Move . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE International Justice FBI Sends Tinubu Records to US Judge for Private Review The sealed FOIA filing is not public and makes no new finding against Nigeria’s president. . Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 Tinubu orders 500 more CNG stations, but fare cuts depend on state implementation. . Sports Trends Ibrahim Gusau Resigns: What Happens Next at the NFF? The NFF president confirmed his exit in Abuja, opening a leadership transition. . Terrorism and Security Nigeria Kidnapping Ransoms Triple to ₦7.78 Billion A new SBM Intelligence report says 7,825 people were abducted as mass kidnappings reshaped the crisis. . Tags Nigeria Nigeria