Displaced families in Mwenga face severe shortages as civil society calls for a humanitarian corridor in South Kivu. Displaced families in Mwenga territory, South Kivu, are facing worsening humanitarian conditions after fleeing clashes between the Congolese army, supported by Wazalendo fighters, and the AFC/M23 armed grou p. Local civil society leaders are now calling for the urgent establishment of a humanitarian corridor to assist affected households. According to a report by Actualite.cd , displaced people from the chiefdom of Lwindi have sought refuge in Mwenga centre and surrounding areas. However, reception capacities remain insufficient. Many families are reportedly spending nights in schools, churches, or under the open sky due to overcrowding. Bienfait Fazili Mulonda Walubanda, coordinator of the civil society consultation framework of the Zalya Basin in the chiefdom of Wamuzimu, described the situation as critical. He stated that displaced households lack access to food, clean drinking water, hygiene kits, essential household items and healthcare services. Children, pregnant women and elderly persons are identified as the most vulnerable. In response, civil society organizations are urging authorities and humanitarian partners to open a secure corridor to facilitate the delivery of emergency assistance. They also warn of increased risks, including exposure to disease and sexual violence, as families struggle to survive without basic necessities. Fighting has been reported for several months in different chiefdoms of Mwenga territory, including Luhwinja, Basile, Burhinyi, Wamuzimu and Lwindi, contributing to repeated waves of displacement. While no official announcement has yet been made regarding the establishment of a humanitarian corridor, local leaders stress that safe access for aid delivery remains essential to prevent further deterioration of conditions in the area. Source: Actualite.cd Continue Reading Full Article HEALTH & HUMANITARIAN South Kivu Displaced Seek Humanitarian Corridor in Mwenga By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Feb 16, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Displaced families in Mwenga territory, South Kivu, are facing worsening humanitarian conditions after fleeing clashes between the Congolese army, supported by Wazalendo fighters, and the AFC/M23 armed grou p. Local civil society leaders are now calling for the urgent establishment of a humanitarian corridor to assist affected households. According to a report by Actualite.cd , displaced people from the chiefdom of Lwindi have sought refuge in Mwenga centre and surrounding areas. However, reception capacities remain insufficient. Many families are reportedly spending nights in schools, churches, or under the open sky due to overcrowding. ADVERTISEMENT Bienfait Fazili Mulonda Walubanda, coordinator of the civil society consultation framework of the Zalya Basin in the chiefdom of Wamuzimu, described the situation as critical. He stated that displaced households lack access to food, clean drinking water, hygiene kits, essential household items and healthcare services. Children, pregnant women and elderly persons are identified as the most vulnerable. In response, civil society organizations are urging authorities and humanitarian partners to open a secure corridor to facilitate the delivery of emergency assistance. They also warn of increased risks, including exposure to disease and sexual violence, as families struggle to survive without basic necessities. ADVERTISEMENT Fighting has been reported for several months in different chiefdoms of Mwenga territory, including Luhwinja, Basile, Burhinyi, Wamuzimu and Lwindi, contributing to repeated waves of displacement. While no official announcement has yet been made regarding the establishment of a humanitarian corridor, local leaders stress that safe access for aid delivery remains essential to prevent further deterioration of conditions in the area. Source: Actualite.cd Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Justice & Crime F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Visit DR Congo Maï-Ndombe River: Discover a Hidden Natural Treasure Near Kinshasa . Justice & Crime M23 → AFC → FRN: Has Anything Really Changed? . Biography Jean-Pierre Bemba Biography: Age, ICC Case, Family and Career . Justice & Crime Kagame's Failed Justifications for His Military Presence in the DRC . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Justice & Crime F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner Congo's foreign minister questions Formula 1's Rwanda decision, citing M23, human rights and financing . Visit DR Congo Maï-Ndombe River: Discover a Hidden Natural Treasure Near Kinshasa Explore the river's geography, dark waters, local communities and potential for responsible tourism . Justice & Crime M23 → AFC → FRN: Has Anything Really Changed? XTRAfrica examines Joseph Kabila's leadership of the FRN, its continuity with AFC/M23 and ... . Biography Jean-Pierre Bemba Biography: Age, ICC Case, Family and Career From MLC rebel commander to DRC vice-president, ICC defendant and deputy prime minister. . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo Wazalendo DRC Wazalendo DRC African Union African Union M23 Conflict Updates M23 Conflict Updates

TikTok star Peller has appealed to his former partner Jarvis for reconciliation weeks after announcing their breakup in December. Popular Nigerian TikToker Peller has publicly appealed to his former girlfriend, Jarvis, asking her to reconsider their relationship weeks after their breakup. The couple announced their separation in December 2025 through separate videos shared online. At the time, neither party provided detailed reasons for the split. However, in a video that surfaced on Sunday, Peller was seen pleading with Jarvis for a second chance , expressing regret over the failed relationship and promising significant changes if they reunite. Speaking while seated with Jarvis inside a car, the TikTok streamer said he had become more mature and assured her that their relationship would be kept private going forward. He also pledged that they would not publicly share their relationship online if they reconciled. In the video , Peller, speaking in Pidgin English, promised that he would not end the relationship again and spoke of future plans, including traveling together without public attention. The video has since circulated widely on social media, drawing mixed reactions from fans and followers of the popular content creator. Source : Daily Post Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Peller Seeks Reconciliation With Ex Jarvis After December Split By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 10, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Popular Nigerian TikToker Peller has publicly appealed to his former girlfriend, Jarvis, asking her to reconsider their relationship weeks after their breakup. The couple announced their separation in December 2025 through separate videos shared online. At the time, neither party provided detailed reasons for the split. ADVERTISEMENT However, in a video that surfaced on Sunday, Peller was seen pleading with Jarvis for a second chance , expressing regret over the failed relationship and promising significant changes if they reunite. Speaking while seated with Jarvis inside a car, the TikTok streamer said he had become more mature and assured her that their relationship would be kept private going forward. He also pledged that they would not publicly share their relationship online if they reconciled. ADVERTISEMENT In the video , Peller, speaking in Pidgin English, promised that he would not end the relationship again and spoke of future plans, including traveling together without public attention. The video has since circulated widely on social media, drawing mixed reactions from fans and followers of the popular content creator. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT Source : Daily Post ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . 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. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Mix Master Garzy engineered Stonebwoy’s live sound at Morocco’s AFCON 2025, reinforcing his global reputation in African music production. According to The Ghana Report , Ghanaian record producer and audio engineer Mix Master Garzy played a key behind-the-scenes role at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, overseeing live sound engineering for Stonebwoy during high-profile fan zone performances Mix Master Garzy solidifies glo…. As the continental football tournament reached its peak, music events formed a major part of the AFCON fan experience. Stonebwoy headlined performances at the OLM Souissi Fan Zone in Rabat, sharing the spotlight with other African stars including Burna Boy, Stormy and Jaylann, drawing large crowds throughout the tournament period. Garzy served as Stonebwoy’s official personal sound engineer and performance audio director, managing the technical delivery of the artist’s live sets. His responsibility included ensuring vocal clarity, balance and consistency across large outdoor venues designed to host tens of thousands of fans. The AFCON fan zone concerts were promoted under the theme “ The AFCON Last Dance : A Celebration of African Sound,” requiring sound production capable of matching the scale and intensity of Africa’s flagship football event. Garzy was tasked with adapting Stonebwoy’s Afro-dancehall sound to the open-air Moroccan environment while maintaining the artist’s signature sonic identity. Stonebwoy and Mix Master Garzy have worked together for several years, collaborating on multiple chart-topping releases and international tours. Their long-standing professional relationship contributed to the seamless execution of the AFCON performances. Beyond live engineering, Garzy is widely regarded as a key figure in contemporary Ghanaian music production. His catalogue includes notable works such as Stonebwoy’s Pull Up , Samini’s Iskoki , as well as collaborations with Becca, Harmonize, Davido and Patoranking. In 2024, Garzy was named Best Audio Engineer at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards , a recognition that further cemented his standing in the industry. His involvement at AFCON 2025 adds to his growing portfolio of large-scale international events. Industry observers note that Garzy’s work at the tournament highlights the increasing presence of African engineers on major global stages, demonstrating the technical capacity and professionalism driving modern African live music production. Source: The Ghana Report Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Mix Master Garzy powers Stonebwoy’s sound at AFCON 2025 in Morocco By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 1, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: According to The Ghana Report , Ghanaian record producer and audio engineer Mix Master Garzy played a key behind-the-scenes role at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, overseeing live sound engineering for Stonebwoy during high-profile fan zone performances Mix Master Garzy solidifies glo…. As the continental football tournament reached its peak, music events formed a major part of the AFCON fan experience. Stonebwoy headlined performances at the OLM Souissi Fan Zone in Rabat, sharing the spotlight with other African stars including Burna Boy, Stormy and Jaylann, drawing large crowds throughout the tournament period. Garzy served as Stonebwoy’s official personal sound engineer and performance audio director, managing the technical delivery of the artist’s live sets. His responsibility included ensuring vocal clarity, balance and consistency across large outdoor venues designed to host tens of thousands of fans. ADVERTISEMENT The AFCON fan zone concerts were promoted under the theme “ The AFCON Last Dance : A Celebration of African Sound,” requiring sound production capable of matching the scale and intensity of Africa’s flagship football event. Garzy was tasked with adapting Stonebwoy’s Afro-dancehall sound to the open-air Moroccan environment while maintaining the artist’s signature sonic identity. Stonebwoy and Mix Master Garzy have worked together for several years, collaborating on multiple chart-topping releases and international tours. Their long-standing professional relationship contributed to the seamless execution of the AFCON performances. ADVERTISEMENT Beyond live engineering, Garzy is widely regarded as a key figure in contemporary Ghanaian music production. His catalogue includes notable works such as Stonebwoy’s Pull Up , Samini’s Iskoki , as well as collaborations with Becca, Harmonize, Davido and Patoranking. In 2024, Garzy was named Best Audio Engineer at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards , a recognition that further cemented his standing in the industry. His involvement at AFCON 2025 adds to his growing portfolio of large-scale international events. Industry observers note that Garzy’s work at the tournament highlights the increasing presence of African engineers on major global stages, demonstrating the technical capacity and professionalism driving modern African live music production. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT Source: The Ghana Report ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . 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. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Ghana Ghana

After a period of apparent estrangement, Tiwa Savage and Toke Makinwa have reignited their friendship with an enthusiastic display of camaraderie. Known for their striking figures, the duo recently ventured out, showcasing their curves with flair during a lively evening. Their vibrant performance has sparked widespread commentary, with some playful remarks about their enhanced appearances. The previously rumored tension between Afrobeats icon Tiwa Savage and television host Toke Makinwa seems to have dissolved, as highlighted by a heartening video of their reunion. During their night out, Tiwa and Toke indulged in the Tshwala Bani and Shallipopi dance challenges, captivating onlookers with their dynamic energy and compelling dance moves. The video, which featured their captivating twerking skills, quickly became a sensation online, drawing an enthusiastic response from social media users. Many commentators praised their dance prowess and the infectious joy of their performance, highlighting the duo's ability to command attention and entertain. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 14, 2024 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: With their impressive twerking and complex footwork, they captivated the audience, leaving fans amazed and eager for more. Images from Instagrams/@tiwasavage @tokemakinwa After a period of apparent estrangement, Tiwa Savage and Toke Makinwa have reignited their friendship with an enthusiastic display of camaraderie. Known for their striking figures, the duo recently ventured out, showcasing their curves with flair during a lively evening. Their vibrant performance has sparked widespread commentary, with some playful remarks about their enhanced appearances. The previously rumored tension between Afrobeats icon Tiwa Savage and television host Toke Makinwa seems to have dissolved, as highlighted by a heartening video of their reunion. ADVERTISEMENT During their night out, Tiwa and Toke indulged in the Tshwala Bani and Shallipopi dance challenges, captivating onlookers with their dynamic energy and compelling dance moves. The video, which featured their captivating twerking skills, quickly became a sensation online, drawing an enthusiastic response from social media users. Many commentators praised their dance prowess and the infectious joy of their performance, highlighting the duo's ability to command attention and entertain. ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Bolaji Ogunmola reacts to social media criticism over her on-screen chemistry with Daniel Etim in The Bloom After. Nigerian actress and filmmaker Bolaji Ogunmola has responded to criticism on social media regarding her on- screen chemistry with co-star Daniel Etim Effiong in the film The Bloom After . Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… The backlash followed comments from a social media user who described the kissing scenes between Ogunmola and Etim Effiong as “excessive,” suggesting that their portrayal of romance appeared overly convincing. The critic also questioned why Ogunmola did not share a similar on-screen moment with another co-star, Anthony, and referenced past industry relationships to support their claim. Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… In response, Ogunmola addressed the remarks directly on her social media platform, defending her professionalism and the intent of the film. She criticised the assumptions being made about actors’ private lives based on fictional performances and emphasized the importance of maintaining boundaries between personal and professional roles. Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… The actress further clarified that The Bloom After is centered on themes beyond romance. According to Ogunmola, the film tells the story of a woman’s journey of self-discovery and reclaiming her identity after personal sacrifice. She encouraged viewers to focus on the broader message rather than isolated scenes. Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… Ogunmola concluded by urging audiences to recognize the film’s deeper meaning and share its message of self-worth. She also acknowledged the pressures that social media commentary can place on public figures but reaffirmed her commitment to her craft. Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… Source: Pulse Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article HOLLYWOOD UPDATES Bolaji Ogunmola Responds to Criticism Over Film Scenes By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 12, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian actress and filmmaker Bolaji Ogunmola has responded to criticism on social media regarding her on- screen chemistry with co-star Daniel Etim Effiong in the film The Bloom After . Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… The backlash followed comments from a social media user who described the kissing scenes between Ogunmola and Etim Effiong as “excessive,” suggesting that their portrayal of romance appeared overly convincing. The critic also questioned why Ogunmola did not share a similar on-screen moment with another co-star, Anthony, and referenced past industry relationships to support their claim. Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… In response, Ogunmola addressed the remarks directly on her social media platform, defending her professionalism and the intent of the film. She criticised the assumptions being made about actors’ private lives based on fictional performances and emphasized the importance of maintaining boundaries between personal and professional roles. Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… ADVERTISEMENT The actress further clarified that The Bloom After is centered on themes beyond romance. According to Ogunmola, the film tells the story of a woman’s journey of self-discovery and reclaiming her identity after personal sacrifice. She encouraged viewers to focus on the broader message rather than isolated scenes. Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… Ogunmola concluded by urging audiences to recognize the film’s deeper meaning and share its message of self-worth. She also acknowledged the pressures that social media commentary can place on public figures but reaffirmed her commitment to her craft. Bolaji Ogunmola slams social me… ADVERTISEMENT Source: Pulse Nigeria Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . 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. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Burkina Faso's military government has extended its rule by five years. Capt. Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power nearly two years ago, will be eligible to run in the next presidential election, according to state media. Capt. Traoré had initially pledged to restore civilian government by July 1, but this deadline has been pushed back. The announcement was made following a national consultation meeting in Ouagadougou. The new 60-month transition period will start on July 2. Elections may be held earlier if security improves , as noted by Reuters. Burkina Faso has been under military rule since Lt. Col. Paul-Henri Damiba ousted President Roch Kaboré in January 2022, citing failure to control Islamist violence. In September 2022, Capt. Traoré overthrew Col. Damiba, promising to improve security and restore civilian rule within 21 months. He later emphasized that elections are secondary to reclaiming jihadist-held territories. The new charter removes quotas for assembly seats, instead selecting deputies based on "patriotism." The national consultation saw swift decisions, with political parties reportedly absent at the start. International bodies, including the EU and UN, have accused Burkina Faso of serious human rights violations in its fight against Islamists, such as indiscriminate killings and forced disappearances of civilians. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 28, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Burkina Faso's military government has extended its rule by five years. Capt. Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power nearly two years ago, will be eligible to run in the next presidential election, according to state media. Capt. Traoré had initially pledged to restore civilian government by July 1, but this deadline has been pushed back. The announcement was made following a national consultation meeting in Ouagadougou. ADVERTISEMENT The new 60-month transition period will start on July 2. Elections may be held earlier if security improves , as noted by Reuters. Burkina Faso has been under military rule since Lt. Col. Paul-Henri Damiba ousted President Roch Kaboré in January 2022, citing failure to control Islamist violence. In September 2022, Capt. Traoré overthrew Col. Damiba, promising to improve security and restore civilian rule within 21 months. He later emphasized that elections are secondary to reclaiming jihadist-held territories. ADVERTISEMENT The new charter removes quotas for assembly seats, instead selecting deputies based on "patriotism." The national consultation saw swift decisions, with political parties reportedly absent at the start. International bodies, including the EU and UN, have accused Burkina Faso of serious human rights violations in its fight against Islamists, such as indiscriminate killings and forced disappearances of civilians. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Discover Bruce Melodie's biography, age, real name, Rwandan roots, hit songs, awards, debut album and journey from backup singer to East African star. Bruce Melodie is a Rwandan singer, songwriter and producer whose melodic Afropop has moved from Kigali church choirs to audiences across East Africa. Born Itahiwacu Bruce, he began as a backup singer, released his first song in 2011 and gradually built a catalogue led by records such as “Ikinya,” “Katerina,” “Saa Moya” and “When She's Around (Funga Macho).” His 2018 PGGSS victory made him a national headliner, while collaborations with Shaggy, Joeboy and Bien widened his regional reach. Fans can follow Bruce Melodie on his official Instagram profile and X account , or visit his verified XTRAfrica songs page for music and downloads. Who is Bruce Melodie? Bruce Melodie is the stage name of Itahiwacu Bruce, a Rwandan singer, songwriter and producer from Kigali. He progressed from church and backup singing to win PGGSS8, then expanded across East Africa through melodic Afropop, R&B collaborations and his 2025 debut album, Colorful Generation . Breakthrough: the PGGSS8 victory that changed his scale Bruce Melodie's breakthrough was not a single lucky audition. It was the result of returning to the same competition in a different role. In 2012, he appeared in Primus Guma Guma Super Star as a backup singer. Six years later, he entered as a headline contestant and won the eighth season. Rwanda Today reported that the July 2018 victory came with a Rwf20 million prize and followed a season in which he had been widely treated as the favourite. The win carried more than professional meaning. Bruce had been raised by his mother, who died in 2012, leaving him responsible for younger siblings. On the PGGSS stage, he connected the achievement directly to that loss: “I dedicate this to my late mum.” Bruce Melodie after winning PGGSS8, as reported by Rwanda Today That night changed the scale of his career. The national competition turned persistence into a public story: the former backing vocalist had become Rwanda's most visible winner. Creative roots: choir, family and Kanombe Itahiwacu Bruce was born in 1992 and grew up in Kanombe, Kigali, in a household with three siblings. Music entered his life at home and through church. In interviews, he has described singing in a choir before writing his own material. That foundation left a lasting mark: even his club-facing songs tend to place a clear vocal line and emotional hook at the centre. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Bruce Melodie Biography: Age, Songs, Awards & Rise By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Aug 20, 2026 Aug 20, 2026 12 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Bruce Melodie is a Rwandan singer, songwriter and producer whose melodic Afropop has moved from Kigali church choirs to audiences across East Africa. Born Itahiwacu Bruce, he began as a backup singer, released his first song in 2011 and gradually built a catalogue led by records such as “Ikinya,” “Katerina,” “Saa Moya” and “When She's Around (Funga Macho).” His 2018 PGGSS victory made him a national headliner, while collaborations with Shaggy, Joeboy and Bien widened his regional reach. Fans can follow Bruce Melodie on his official Instagram profile and X account , or visit his verified XTRAfrica songs page for music and downloads. Who is Bruce Melodie? Bruce Melodie is the stage name of Itahiwacu Bruce, a Rwandan singer, songwriter and producer from Kigali. He progressed from church and backup singing to win PGGSS8, then expanded across East Africa through melodic Afropop, R&B collaborations and his 2025 debut album, Colorful Generation . Breakthrough: the PGGSS8 victory that changed his scale Bruce Melodie's breakthrough was not a single lucky audition. It was the result of returning to the same competition in a different role. In 2012, he appeared in Primus Guma Guma Super Star as a backup singer. Six years later, he entered as a headline contestant and won the eighth season. Rwanda Today reported that the July 2018 victory came with a Rwf20 million prize and followed a season in which he had been widely treated as the favourite. The win carried more than professional meaning. Bruce had been raised by his mother, who died in 2012, leaving him responsible for younger siblings. On the PGGSS stage, he connected the achievement directly to that loss: “I dedicate this to my late mum.” Bruce Melodie after winning PGGSS8, as reported by Rwanda Today That night changed the scale of his career. The national competition turned persistence into a public story: the former backing vocalist had become Rwanda's most visible winner. Creative roots: choir, family and Kanombe Itahiwacu Bruce was born in 1992 and grew up in Kanombe, Kigali, in a household with three siblings. Music entered his life at home and through church. In interviews, he has described singing in a choir before writing his own material. That foundation left a lasting mark: even his club-facing songs tend to place a clear vocal line and emotional hook at the centre. His early professional period was far less polished. A 2013 profile in The New Times described him as a 21-year-old who had begun working as a backup singer roughly three years earlier. His first released song, “Tubivemo,” arrived in 2011. Access to studios, media and the internet was limited, and an early dismissive encounter with a DJ damaged his confidence. He continued anyway. The shortage of resources became a form of training. Bruce learned to shape melodies and produce because hiring established producers was not always possible. He also helped other singers arrange vocal ideas, which strengthened the skill that eventually supplied his stage name. Looking back, he told OkayAfrica : “I never went to music school , I learn by experience.” Sound and craft: building a catalogue by ear Bruce Melodie's strength is melodic adaptability. He can sit inside R&B, Afropop, Afrobeats or amapiano without abandoning the smooth, conversational vocal approach associated with his Rwandan records. Songs such as “Katerina” place romance inside an uncluttered pop frame; “Saa Moya” leans into rhythmic immediacy; and “When She's Around (Funga Macho)” uses a bilingual, cross-generational collaboration with Shaggy to connect East African pop and reggae. His method is practical rather than academic. Choir singing taught him how voices fit together, backup work trained his ear for supporting a lead, and self-production forced him to understand what a song needs beyond the microphone. That is why his credits as singer, songwriter, composer and producer belong to one continuous craft rather than separate job titles. ADVERTISEMENT In October 2023, S-Curve Records announced “When She's Around (Funga Macho),” produced by AJR and featuring Jamaican star Shaggy. Bruce described the session plainly: “Collaborating with Shaggy has been a dream come true.” The collaboration was important because it did not require Bruce to erase his musical identity. Instead, it positioned his melodic instincts within an international record. The same outward-facing strategy later brought collaborations with artists including Bien and Joeboy. XTRAfrica listeners can hear that direction on “Beauty on Fire” with Joeboy . Kinyarwanda, Kigali and East African identity Bruce Melodie's music is contemporary, but its identity remains Rwandan. Kinyarwanda lyrics give his songs intimacy at home, while accessible hooks allow them to travel across language borders. His sound also reflects Kigali's place inside a connected East African market, where Rwandan, Kenyan, Tanzanian and Ugandan audiences increasingly encounter one another through streaming, festivals and collaborations. Bruce does not present “African music” as one uniform genre. He brings a recognisably Rwandan melodic sensibility into conversations with Afrobeats, reggae and East African pop. In an interview with The Pit London , he explained the distinction: “I bring a blend of East African rhythms and melodies to the genre.” The 2019 single “Katerina,” his first English-language release, was an early test of that wider address. Later records moved more freely between languages and collaborators, but the goal remained consistent: make locally grounded music legible beyond Rwanda without flattening its origin. Personal journey: loss, responsibility and staying grounded Bruce Melodie's public story contains a difficult transition from dependence to responsibility. His mother's death in 2012 came while his career was still fragile. He had younger siblings to help care for, few guarantees from music and no established industry route to follow. The PGGSS8 dedication six years later revealed why that victory felt like more than a trophy. His album Colorful Generation carries another private response to loss. The song “Narinziko Uzagaruka,” meaning “I thought you would come back,” was written for his late parents. The record lets memory enter through music. Verified interviews illuminate its emotional source without requiring unsupported claims about his wider family or relationships. He has said that time with family and close friends keeps him grounded, and OkayAfrica described him as a father of two. His public ambition is large, yet the discipline behind it remains ordinary: writing, recording and rehearsing. Key events in Bruce Melodie's career timeline Year Event Significance 2011 Released “Tubivemo” Marked the beginning of his recorded catalogue 2012 Appeared in PGGSS as a backup singer Introduced him to the competition he would later win 2017 Broke through with “Ikinya” and joined Coke Studio Africa Expanded his audience beyond Rwanda 2018 Won Primus Guma Guma Super Star season eight Established him as a national headline artist 2019 Won Salax Best R&B Artist and Best Male Artist Confirmed his strength across Rwandan popular music 2023 Released “When She's Around” with Shaggy and won TRACE Best Rwandan Artist Joined international collaboration with continental recognition 2025 Released Colorful Generation Delivered his 21-track debut studio album 2026 Released “Détail” and toured Rwanda with The Ben Continued his catalogue while reinforcing his live audience at home ADVERTISEMENT Awards, Colorful Generation and the continental turn The years after PGGSS turned Bruce Melodie from a competition winner into a durable recording artist. At the 2019 Salax Awards , he was the night's biggest winner, taking Best R&B Artist and Best Male Artist. In October 2023, Rwanda's official development board recorded another milestone: he won Best Rwandan Artist at the TRACE Awards , held in Kigali before an international broadcast audience. His debut album took longer. Colorful Generation arrived on 17 January 2025 through S-Curve Records. The Apple Music listing identifies a 21-track, 64-minute project. Bruce told OkayAfrica that the final sequence was selected from about 200 songs recorded over three years. The title reflects his intended audience: young people whose differences are visible rather than hidden. The album moves between solo storytelling and cross-border records. Bien appears on “Iyo Foto,” Joeboy on “Beauty on Fire,” and Shaggy on “When She's Around.” “Intro” provides the project's opening statement and is also available through XTRAfrica's song and lyrics page . The breadth is deliberate, but the album's strongest thread is Bruce's voice reflective and built around hooks that survive changes in production style. Bruce Melodie's emerging impact Bruce Melodie's impact is most visible in the route he has made plausible for Rwandan pop: local-language success, national competition dominance, regional collaboration and international label distribution can belong to the same career. His 2017 Coke Studio Africa appearance made him the first Rwandan musician to participate in the franchise, according to Music In Africa. His TRACE win then placed Rwandan recognition inside a continental awards event staged at home. Streaming also shows a genuinely East African audience. His Spotify profile had 224,453 monthly listeners in July 2026. Third-party Spotify analytics placed Nairobi ahead of Kigali among his leading cities, with Dar es Salaam and Kampala also prominent. Those figures fluctuate, but the geography supports what the collaborations already suggest: Bruce is a Rwandan artist whose active market crosses the region. His example values apprenticeship: backup singing, choir practice, self-taught production and repeated competition were the career before fame arrived. What comes next after “Détail” Bruce Melodie's latest verified solo single is “Détail” , released on 13 May 2026. The track follows the larger world of Colorful Generation with a concise Afro-fusion record centred on romantic observation. Earlier in the year, “Pom Pom,” featuring Diamond Platnumz and Brown Joel, supported an international media tour through East Africa and Europe. At home, he and The Ben announced a 2026 country tour with dates in Musanze, Nyagatare and Bugesera. The partnership joined two major Rwandan voices and showed that international expansion need not replace domestic touring. Bruce has also spoken with unusual directness about the scale of his ambition: “My dream is not just to be an East African artist, I want to be a global superstar.” Bruce Melodie in OkayAfrica The next chapter depends on how consistently new releases convert that ambition into audiences outside the region. What is already clear is that Bruce Melodie is no longer approaching the world as an unknown. He is doing so with a substantial catalogue, a national awards history and a debut album designed as a continental introduction. Frequently asked questions about Bruce Melodie Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Justice & Crime F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime M23 → AFC → FRN: Has Anything Really Changed? . Justice & Crime Kagame's Failed Justifications for His Military Presence in the DRC . Justice & Crime Jean-Pierre Bemba Accuses Joseph Kabila of Serving Rwanda's Interests . Natural Disasters Rwanda, Musanze Fire Loss Estimate: Rwf30bn Figure Remains Preliminary . ADVERTISEMENT What is Bruce Melodie's real name? His birth name is Itahiwacu Bruce. He performs professionally as Bruce Melodie. How old is Bruce Melodie? Bruce Melodie is 34 years old as of 19 August 2026. Most public references give his birth date as 3 March 1992. Where is Bruce Melodie from? He is from Kanombe in Kigali, Rwanda, and is a Rwandan national. When did Bruce Melodie start making music? He began as a choir and backup singer before releasing “Tubivemo” in 2011. His professional catalogue therefore dates from 2011. What was Bruce Melodie's breakthrough song? “Ikinya” became his first major musical breakthrough in 2017. Winning PGGSS8 in 2018 then elevated him to national-headliner status. Which competition did Bruce Melodie win? He won season eight of Primus Guma Guma Super Star in July 2018, six years after appearing in the competition as a backup singer. What are Bruce Melodie's biggest songs? Popular songs include “Katerina,” “Saa Moya,” “Fou de Toi,” “Katapilla,” “Iyo Foto” and “When She's Around (Funga Macho).” His exact streaming rankings change over time. What is Bruce Melodie's latest album? His latest and debut studio album is Colorful Generation , released on 17 January 2025 with 21 tracks. Which major artists has Bruce Melodie worked with? His collaborators include Shaggy, Joeboy, Bien, Diamond Platnumz and Brown Joel. Which awards has Bruce Melodie won? His major verified honours include PGGSS8 in 2018, two Salax Awards in 2019 and TRACE Best Rwandan Artist in 2023. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Justice & Crime F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner Congo's foreign minister questions Formula 1's Rwanda decision, citing M23, human rights and financing . Justice & Crime M23 → AFC → FRN: Has Anything Really Changed? XTRAfrica examines Joseph Kabila's leadership of the FRN, its continuity with AFC/M23 and ... . Justice & Crime Kagame's Failed Justifications for His Military Presence in the DRC UN findings, U.S. sanctions and the reported FRN launch raise questions about Kigali's military role . Justice & Crime Jean-Pierre Bemba Accuses Joseph Kabila of Serving Rwanda's Interests Following Kabila's October 9 speech, Jean-Pierre Bemba accuses the former DRC president of serving.. . Tags Rwanda Rwanda Bruce Melodie Bruce Melodie

Sanna Manjang faces a Gambian military court over alleged desertion in 2017. Here is how the case differs from his civilian trial. BANJUL, The Gambia — A General Court Martial has opened proceedings against former Gambian lieutenant colonel Sanna Manjang over an allegation that he deserted the armed forces in January 2017. The hearing began on 21 September 2026 at Fajara Barracks, according to accounts based on a Gambia Armed Forces statement. The desertion case is a military proceeding. It does not determine the separate allegations against Manjang in the High Court, and it does not amount to a conviction. Gambian military prosecutors allege that Manjang left his State Guards Battalion duty post in Banjul around 21 January 2017 and remained absent for nine years with the intention of deserting. The allegation must now be proved before the General Court Martial. What the military charge says The Gambia Journal's account of the military announcement says Manjang is charged under the Gambia Armed Forces Act. The alleged offence is desertion contrary to Section 53(1)(a), with the charge brought under the military-law framework cited by the armed forces. According to the stated particulars, Manjang allegedly left his post at the State Guards Battalion in Banjul on or about 21 January 2017. Prosecutors say the absence continued for nine years and was accompanied by an intention to desert. Both the prolonged absence and the alleged intention are matters for the tribunal to decide from the evidence. The hearing is taking place at the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers' Mess at the Guards Battalion in Fajara. Voice Gambia reported that Colonel Ousman Bah is president of the military panel and Justice Omar Cham is serving as judge advocate. The Director of Public Prosecutions or representatives from his office, assisted by military lawyers, are handling the prosecution. The military said Manjang has defending officers and may instruct a defending officer or counsel of his choice. It also said the proceedings are open to the public and the media. Why this case is separate from the High Court trial The most important legal distinction is that the court martial concerns Manjang's alleged conduct as a military officer. It focuses on whether he deserted the armed forces in 2017. Continue Reading Full Article JUSTICE & CRIME Sanna Manjang Faces Gambia Court Martial for Desertion By Otieno kevin News Editor Otieno kevin Home Comment Sep 22, 2026 Sep 22, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: BANJUL, The Gambia — A General Court Martial has opened proceedings against former Gambian lieutenant colonel Sanna Manjang over an allegation that he deserted the armed forces in January 2017. The hearing began on 21 September 2026 at Fajara Barracks, according to accounts based on a Gambia Armed Forces statement. The desertion case is a military proceeding. It does not determine the separate allegations against Manjang in the High Court, and it does not amount to a conviction. Gambian military prosecutors allege that Manjang left his State Guards Battalion duty post in Banjul around 21 January 2017 and remained absent for nine years with the intention of deserting. The allegation must now be proved before the General Court Martial. What the military charge says The Gambia Journal's account of the military announcement says Manjang is charged under the Gambia Armed Forces Act. The alleged offence is desertion contrary to Section 53(1)(a), with the charge brought under the military-law framework cited by the armed forces. According to the stated particulars, Manjang allegedly left his post at the State Guards Battalion in Banjul on or about 21 January 2017. Prosecutors say the absence continued for nine years and was accompanied by an intention to desert. Both the prolonged absence and the alleged intention are matters for the tribunal to decide from the evidence. The hearing is taking place at the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers' Mess at the Guards Battalion in Fajara. Voice Gambia reported that Colonel Ousman Bah is president of the military panel and Justice Omar Cham is serving as judge advocate. The Director of Public Prosecutions or representatives from his office, assisted by military lawyers, are handling the prosecution. ADVERTISEMENT The military said Manjang has defending officers and may instruct a defending officer or counsel of his choice. It also said the proceedings are open to the public and the media. Why this case is separate from the High Court trial The most important legal distinction is that the court martial concerns Manjang's alleged conduct as a military officer. It focuses on whether he deserted the armed forces in 2017. The civilian case before the High Court concerns allegations linked to events during the rule of former president Yahya Jammeh. In July 2026, prosecutors amended that case. The Point reported from the High Court proceedings that four murder counts were withdrawn and replaced with two counts of assault causing actual bodily harm. Manjang pleaded not guilty to the assault counts. That amendment did not decide whether Manjang committed the alleged assaults, and it did not turn the military desertion allegation into part of the civilian case. Each proceeding has its own charge, forum and evidentiary questions. International reports have sometimes summarised the earlier case as a murder prosecution that was dropped. Africanews, citing AP , and Al Jazeera's AFP report both connect the new military hearing to the wider effort to address abuses from the Jammeh period. The precise current position, however, is that the court martial concerns desertion while the amended High Court case concerns assault allegations. ADVERTISEMENT How Manjang returned to The Gambia Manjang left The Gambia after Jammeh lost the December 2016 presidential election to Adama Barrow. XTRAfrica's profile of President Adama Barrow explains the political transition that ended Jammeh's rule and placed the country on a difficult path of institutional reform. Gambian authorities announced Manjang's arrest in Senegal's Casamance region on 29 November 2025. The Alkamba Times reported that the operation involved Gambian and Senegalese security services. He was later returned to The Gambia. An Associated Press report on his January 2026 High Court appearance said Manjang denied the murder charges then before the court. Those charges were subsequently replaced by the assault counts described above. The Junglers and the transitional-justice record Manjang has been publicly identified as a former commander of the Junglers, a unit accused of carrying out killings, disappearances and torture during Jammeh's rule. Those descriptions arise from testimony and findings associated with The Gambia's Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission, as well as later court cases. They should not be presented as convictions against Manjang. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Accident News Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Social Service Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Education Nigeria Polytechnic Degree Bill: Who Qualifies and What Happens Next? . Biography Gamal Nkrumah Biography: Journalism, Family and Legacy . Social Media Trends Uganda Charcoal Ban Explained: Parliament Pauses Enforcement . ADVERTISEMENT The commission investigated abuses committed during Jammeh's presidency and recommended prosecutions in a number of cases. Some proceedings involving alleged Jammeh-era crimes have taken place outside The Gambia, while the country has continued developing its own accountability process. The new court martial is narrower than that history. Its task is to decide the desertion allegation under military law. The prosecution must establish the elements of that charge, and Manjang retains the presumption of innocence. What happens next The General Court Martial will hear the prosecution's evidence and any defence challenge to the allegation that Manjang left his post with the intention of deserting. The military panel's rulings, the defence response and any scheduled hearing dates will determine the next stages. The High Court assault case will continue on a separate track. Reporting on either case should keep the two proceedings distinct, identify allegations as allegations and reserve any conclusion on guilt for the relevant court. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Accident News Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured Edo police report eight burn injuries as conflicting accounts leave the final death toll unresolved. . Social Service Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday Ramaphosa lifts the police chief's suspension, with Masemola due back on 19 October 2026. . Education Nigeria Polytechnic Degree Bill: Who Qualifies and What Happens Next? The Senate has backed B.Tech degrees, but legal approval and programme accreditation still matter. . Biography Gamal Nkrumah Biography: Journalism, Family and Legacy The Ghanaian journalist built a career in Cairo while carrying a historic family name. . Tags Breaking News Breaking News Gambia Gambia

Tshisekedi is in Türkiye for the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he is set to speak on regional ownership and peace. President Félix Tshisekedi has arrived in Türkiye for the Antalya Diplomacy Forum , where he is expected to take part in the fifth edition of the annual gathering and speak during a leaders’ panel on regional ownership in a changing world. According to the Congolese presidency, he will use the event to restate the Democratic Republic of Congo’ s commitment to regional peace and stability. The forum is being held in Antalya from April 17 to 19 and is hosted by Türkiye’s foreign ministry under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, according to the event’s official organisers. This year’s edition is focused on managing uncertainty in a rapidly changing global environment. The Antalya Diplomacy Forum has become a regular platform for heads of state, diplomats, experts and international decision-makers to discuss geopolitical tensions, global conflicts and the future of multilateral cooperation. Turkish media reports say the 2026 edition is expected to bring together participants from more than 150 countries for talks on regional and international challenges, underlining the scale of the gathering this year . For Kinshasa, Tshisekedi’s participation gives the DRC another another international platform to project its diplomatic position as regional security concerns remain central to its foreign policy. His appearance at the forum also fits into broader efforts by Congolese authorities to keep regional peace and stability high on the agenda during major multilateral meetings. Continue Reading Full Article INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Tshisekedi to address regional role at Antalya Turkey forum By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Apr 17, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: President Félix Tshisekedi has arrived in Türkiye for the Antalya Diplomacy Forum , where he is expected to take part in the fifth edition of the annual gathering and speak during a leaders’ panel on regional ownership in a changing world. According to the Congolese presidency, he will use the event to restate the Democratic Republic of Congo’ s commitment to regional peace and stability. The forum is being held in Antalya from April 17 to 19 and is hosted by Türkiye’s foreign ministry under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, according to the event’s official organisers. This year’s edition is focused on managing uncertainty in a rapidly changing global environment. ADVERTISEMENT The Antalya Diplomacy Forum has become a regular platform for heads of state, diplomats, experts and international decision-makers to discuss geopolitical tensions, global conflicts and the future of multilateral cooperation. Turkish media reports say the 2026 edition is expected to bring together participants from more than 150 countries for talks on regional and international challenges, underlining the scale of the gathering this year . ADVERTISEMENT For Kinshasa, Tshisekedi’s participation gives the DRC another another international platform to project its diplomatic position as regional security concerns remain central to its foreign policy. His appearance at the forum also fits into broader efforts by Congolese authorities to keep regional peace and stability high on the agenda during major multilateral meetings. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation . War in Eastern DRC FARDC Says It Is Thwarting M23 Advances Despite Rwandan Drone Support . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers DRC approves FGADEC, a national deposit-guarantee fund designed to protect eligible savings, . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll DRC plans to make salary inclusion a 2027 budget priority, aiming to progressively bring eligible . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure DRC plans more than $440 million in its 2027 budget for rural water, electricity and basic . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation DRC opposition coalition announces nationwide protest over constitutional reform dispute . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics Africa Africa Felix Tshisekedi Felix Tshisekedi Thérèse Kayikwamba Thérèse Kayikwamba DRC Peace Efforts DRC Peace Efforts

The inaugural Raha Festival, touted as Africa's grandest celebration of music, arts, and culture, is set to commence today at Uhuru Gardens. This event, spanning March 30th and 31st, 2024, promises a memorable fusion of musical performances, art showcases, and cultural exhibitions. The festival has successfully attracted a host of international and Kenyan talent to its stage for this two-day extravaganza. Raha Fest 2024 is designed to offer a plethora of experiences, from art installations and cultural showcases to gourmet food stalls and engaging workshops. Its primary objective is to foster unity among diverse groups through the appreciation of African artistry and cultural heritage. Leading the lineup is the internationally acclaimed Afrobeat superstar Davido, known for his energetic performances and a string of hits including " Unavailable ft Musa Keys ," " Feel ," " Fall ," "If ," and " FEM ." His presence at the festival underscores its significance in the African entertainment landscape. The festival will kick off with Davido sharing the stage with the talented Musa Keys, marking the beginning of a remarkable international showcase. Adding to the festival's allure are Nigerian talents Iyanya, Logos Olori, Olori, Morravey, and the celebrated DJ Neptune. The Kenyan music scene will be well-represented on the second day, featuring performances by Mejja, Samidoh, and Femi One among others. The second day continues with an impressive roster including Otile Brown, Bensoul, H-art the Band, Nadia Mukami, Boutross, Nviiri the Storyteller, Sanaipei Tande, and Melina Gold. Ghana's King Promise and the gifted Ya Levis from the Democratic Republic of Congo will also grace the stage, promising an unforgettable musical journey. King Promise, visiting Kenya for the first time, expressed his excitement and anticipation for delivering a memorable performance, inviting fans to partake in what promises to be a historic event. Tickets are available for purchase online through Ticket Sasa and Ticket Yetu, with prices set at KES 6000 for a regular weekend pass and KES 12000 for a VIP weekend pass. The gates will open at 12 PM, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in a celebration of African creativity and diversity. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 30, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Raha Fest, the continent's premier festival celebrating music, arts, and culture, is set to unfold over two days at Uhuru Gardens. @gossipssworld The inaugural Raha Festival, touted as Africa's grandest celebration of music, arts, and culture, is set to commence today at Uhuru Gardens. This event, spanning March 30th and 31st, 2024, promises a memorable fusion of musical performances, art showcases, and cultural exhibitions. The festival has successfully attracted a host of international and Kenyan talent to its stage for this two-day extravaganza. Raha Fest 2024 is designed to offer a plethora of experiences, from art installations and cultural showcases to gourmet food stalls and engaging workshops. Its primary objective is to foster unity among diverse groups through the appreciation of African artistry and cultural heritage. Leading the lineup is the internationally acclaimed Afrobeat superstar Davido, known for his energetic performances and a string of hits including " Unavailable ft Musa Keys ," " Feel ," " Fall ," "If ," and " FEM ." His presence at the festival underscores its significance in the African entertainment landscape. ADVERTISEMENT The festival will kick off with Davido sharing the stage with the talented Musa Keys, marking the beginning of a remarkable international showcase. Adding to the festival's allure are Nigerian talents Iyanya, Logos Olori, Olori, Morravey, and the celebrated DJ Neptune. The Kenyan music scene will be well-represented on the second day, featuring performances by Mejja, Samidoh, and Femi One among others. ADVERTISEMENT The second day continues with an impressive roster including Otile Brown, Bensoul, H-art the Band, Nadia Mukami, Boutross, Nviiri the Storyteller, Sanaipei Tande, and Melina Gold. Ghana's King Promise and the gifted Ya Levis from the Democratic Republic of Congo will also grace the stage, promising an unforgettable musical journey. King Promise, visiting Kenya for the first time, expressed his excitement and anticipation for delivering a memorable performance, inviting fans to partake in what promises to be a historic event. Tickets are available for purchase online through Ticket Sasa and Ticket Yetu, with prices set at KES 6000 for a regular weekend pass and KES 12000 for a VIP weekend pass. The gates will open at 12 PM, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in a celebration of African creativity and diversity. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Discover the 10 most travel-worthy lakes in DR Congo for 2025 from volcanic gems to jungle hideaways, packed with culture, wildlife, and local flavor. The Democratic Republic of Congo isn’t just about dense rainforests and mighty rivers it’s also home to some of Africa’s most stunning lakes. From the depths of the Great Rift Valley to hidden jungle gems, DRC’s lakes offer wild beauty, local lore, and laid-back adventure in equal measure. Here are ten of the most prominent lakes in DR Congo that should be on every traveler’s radar, each with its unique vibe, tips for visiting, and a splash of insider insight. 1. Lake Tanganyika Location & Vibe: Straddling DRC’s eastern border (and shared with three other countries), Lake Tanganyika is the superstar of African lakes. It’s the world’s second-deepest freshwater lake, plunging to 1,470 meters , and holds a whopping 17% of our planet’s available fresh water . In fact, Tanganyika is so immense that locals jokingly call it “the inland ocean.” Its crystal-clear waters meet palm-fringed shores around towns like Kalemie and Uvira, offering beachy relaxation with Central African flair. This dreamy slice of Lake Tanganyika was captured by @tropichelicopter s just four days ago. A true pilot’s paradise and yours too, if you're lucky enough to land there. See it in motion below. Don’t be surprised if you spot traditional makoro canoes and the evening glow of lanterns on fishing boats. The sunsets here turn the sky tangerine-orange, casting reflections that seem almost too perfect to be real see it on Instagram (the kind of scene that gives #NoFilter posts a run for their money). Price & Tips: Enjoying Lake Tanganyika is blissfully free Mother Nature doesn’t charge a cover. You can swim, snorkel, or just picnic on the sand without spending a franc. If you fancy a boat ride, locals may ferry you across a bay for about $10 (≈20,000 CDF) a small price for a front-row seat to paradise. Feeling peckish? Try some freshly grilled mukeke or ndagala fish (Tanganyika sardines) at the local market for under $5; it’s a crispy, smoky treat you won’t forget. Local tip: Tanganyika’s waters teem with unique species, including 250+ kinds of cichlid fish found nowhere else . And if you’re up for a legend, ask about the old German warship MV Liemba this century-old ferry still chugs along the lake occasionally, a living piece of history. From sky-blue panoramas to lively lakeside bars in Kalemie, Tanganyika lives up to its blockbuster status truly a lake of superlatives. 2. Lake Kivu Location & Vibe: Nestled amidst misty green hills on the border with Rwanda, Lake Kivu is the Rift Valley’s picturesque rebel. Why rebel? Because beneath Kivu’s tranquil surface lies a volcanic secret vast amounts of methane and CO₂ gas are dissolved in its depths . It’s a “killer lake” in theory (if those gases ever erupted, yikes!), yet everyday life on Kivu’s shores is utterly peaceful. Continue Reading Full Article Top 10 Most Prominent Lakes of DR Congo By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Nov 23, 2025 May 15, 2026 32 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo isn’t just about dense rainforests and mighty rivers it’s also home to some of Africa’s most stunning lakes. From the depths of the Great Rift Valley to hidden jungle gems, DRC’s lakes offer wild beauty, local lore, and laid-back adventure in equal measure. Here are ten of the most prominent lakes in DR Congo that should be on every traveler’s radar, each with its unique vibe, tips for visiting, and a splash of insider insight. 1. Lake Tanganyika A sweeping view of one of the world’s oldest and deepest lakes, framed by the Congolese hills Location & Vibe: Straddling DRC’s eastern border (and shared with three other countries), Lake Tanganyika is the superstar of African lakes. It’s the world’s second-deepest freshwater lake, plunging to 1,470 meters , and holds a whopping 17% of our planet’s available fresh water . In fact, Tanganyika is so immense that locals jokingly call it “the inland ocean.” Its crystal-clear waters meet palm-fringed shores around towns like Kalemie and Uvira, offering beachy relaxation with Central African flair. This dreamy slice of Lake Tanganyika was captured by @tropichelicopter s just four days ago. A true pilot’s paradise and yours too, if you're lucky enough to land there. See it in motion below. Don’t be surprised if you spot traditional makoro canoes and the evening glow of lanterns on fishing boats. The sunsets here turn the sky tangerine-orange, casting reflections that seem almost too perfect to be real see it on Instagram (the kind of scene that gives #NoFilter posts a run for their money). Price & Tips: Enjoying Lake Tanganyika is blissfully free Mother Nature doesn’t charge a cover. You can swim, snorkel, or just picnic on the sand without spending a franc. If you fancy a boat ride, locals may ferry you across a bay for about $10 (≈20,000 CDF) a small price for a front-row seat to paradise. Feeling peckish? Try some freshly grilled mukeke or ndagala fish (Tanganyika sardines) at the local market for under $5; it’s a crispy, smoky treat you won’t forget. Local tip: Tanganyika’s waters teem with unique species, including 250+ kinds of cichlid fish found nowhere else . And if you’re up for a legend, ask about the old German warship MV Liemba this century-old ferry still chugs along the lake occasionally, a living piece of history. From sky-blue panoramas to lively lakeside bars in Kalemie, Tanganyika lives up to its blockbuster status truly a lake of superlatives. 2. Lake Kivu Lake Kivu’s waterfront communities curve along the edge of one of Africa’s most scenic rift lakes. Location & Vibe: Nestled amidst misty green hills on the border with Rwanda, Lake Kivu is the Rift Valley’s picturesque rebel. Why rebel? Because beneath Kivu’s tranquil surface lies a volcanic secret vast amounts of methane and CO₂ gas are dissolved in its depths . It’s a “killer lake” in theory (if those gases ever erupted, yikes!), yet everyday life on Kivu’s shores is utterly peaceful. In Goma and Bukavu, locals sip primus beer at waterfront cafés, musicians strum guitars by the beach, and kids splash around carefree. Towering in the background is the silhouette of Nyiragongo volcano, often with a plume of smoke, reminding you this lake lives in the Ring of Fire. Kivu’s waters are a cool relief in the tropical heat shimmering by day, silvery under the moonlight. Where city meets serenity Lake Kivu reflects the peaceful rhythm of eastern DR Congo. Price & Tips: Access to Lake Kivu is free just stroll up to the shoreline in Goma’s Corniche or Bukavu’s port. For a deeper experience, hop on the daily Goma–Bukavu ferry (Ihusi Express) at around $50 per person (roughly 120,000 CDF) a 3-hour journey that’s part commute, part scenic cruise . Splurge on the faster speedboat (~$100) if you’re in a hurry, but honestly, on Africa time , who’s rushing? Along the way, snack on sambaza, the local tiny sardines often served fried in paper cones a Lake Kivu delicacy that pairs perfectly with cold beer and lake breezes. social insight Two kids wading through Lake Kivu at dusk, the world hushed around them it’s the kind of moment that says everything without needing a word. As one traveler put it on Instagram , “Lake Kivu, in silence.” The water stretches out like glass, the hills fade into haze, and the only soundtrack is the soft ripple of barefoot steps. Local insight: Kivu’s lakebed methane isn’t just for thrills; Rwanda taps it to generate electricity (talk about a hot tub with benefits). Meanwhile on the DRC side, the real attraction is cultural consider a detour to Idjwi Island in the lake’s heart, where time moves slower, bicycles rule the road, and coffee and bananas are the islands’ claim to fame (along with some seriously paradisiacal views see an idyllic island snapshot on Instagram, and just try not to daydream). Whether you’re kayaking at sunrise or grooving to soukous beats at a lakeside bar in Goma, Lake Kivu offers a mellow mix of adventure and relaxation all with a hint of geological drama underfoot . 3. Lake Albert Sunset over a lakeside village near Lake Albert, where still waters reflect the rhythm of rural life. Location & Vibe: Up in DRC’s far northeast corner lies Lake Albert, a long blue gem forming the natural border with Uganda. This lake is part of the Great Lakes family (albeit the shy cousin) and sits in the Albertine Rift like a mirror between two escarpments. Gaze east, and you’ll see Uganda’s rolling plains; look west, and the imposing Blue Mountains of Congo loom dark and handsome on the horizon, often capped with clouds. Lake Albert’s vibe is serene and a touch otherworldly think wide-open horizons, flocks of waterbirds skimming the surface, and dugout canoes gliding at dawn. It’s also a working lake: local Alur and Hema fishermen launch out each day from villages like Tchomia and Mahagi-Port, hoping for Nile perch or tilapia in their nets. Historically, this lake has seen everything from ancient trade to colonial steamships. (Fun fact: explorers Samuel Baker and his feisty wife Florence “discovered” it in 1864 and promptly named it after Queen Victoria’s hubby, Prince Albert .) Price & Tips: Visiting Lake Albert on the DRC side is an exercise in intrepid travel. There’s no fee to view or wander its shores it’s free to all but getting there might involve chartering a 4x4 or hitching a ride on a market truck. If you reach Mahagi Port, you could catch a local ferry toward Uganda (when running) for a few dollars a short ride that offers a panoramic lake view and a truly breezy border crossing. No fancy resorts here, but you can camp by the lakeside (ask village chiefs for permission, usually granted with a smile and maybe a small goodwill payment in CDF or a shared meal). Local tip: Impress the locals by calling the lake “Mwitanzige”, its traditional name meaning “ Locust Kille r”. Legend says a biblical swarm of locusts once descended, devouring crops, but when the locusts tried to cross the lake, Albert’s waters swallowed them whole . ADVERTISEMENT The name stuck, and it’s still used by communities generations later. While you’re swapping stories, ask a fisherman about the semliki monster you might hear a tall tale or two about mysterious creatures in these depths (after all, who’s to say what lurks beneath?). True or not, one thing’s certain: watching a fiery sunset over Lake Albert’s calm waters, with the call of fish eagles in the air, is pure magic no ticket needed. 4. Lake Edward Location & Vibe: Tucked between DRC’s Virunga National Park and Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth Park, Lake Edward is wild in the best way. It may be the smallest of Africa’s Great Lakes , but what it lacks in size, it makes up in untamed beauty. Picture glassy waters backdropped by the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains (yes, snow on the Equator!) and fringed by plains where elephants and buffalo occasionally wander for a lakeside drink. Lake Edward is entirely within protected areas so its shores are practically devoid of human settlement, save for a couple of ranger posts and fishing hamlets like Vitshumbi and Ishango . Tucked between DRC’s Virunga National Park and Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth Park, Lake Edward is wild in the best way This gives the lake an isolated, Eden-like atmosphere. Expect to see pods of snorting hippos bobbing up and down, flotillas of pelicans and cormorants patrolling for fish, and maybe the ripple of a lurking crocodile. If you’ve ever wanted to pretend you’re David Attenborough for a day, this is the place. Interestingly, this lake even had a brief identity crisis during the 1970s it was renamed Lake Idi Amin by the infamous Ugandan dictator, only to revert to good old Edward after his fall from power. Talk about a lake with stories! Price & Tips: Since Lake Edward sits inside Virunga National Park (DRC), a visit typically requires a park permit (around $40 USD for DRC residents, higher for foreigners) these fees support conservation and the rangers who protect the area. Most travelers experience Lake Edward via an organized Virunga safari or as part of a gorilla trekking or game drive package. If you’re DIY-ing it, coordinate with park authorities for access; wandering in on your own is not advised (besides the wildlife, there’s that pesky occasional insecurity). There’s no commercial boating on the lake for tourists, but you can arrange a boat trip with park rangers on patrol gliding among hippos costs about $30 in fuel contributions (and comes with unbeatable nature commentary from your ranger guide). Local insight: Don’t skip a stop at Ishango on the northern tip, if allowed not only is there a ranger station, but archaeologists found an ancient bone harpoon and the Ishango Bone here (thought to be an 20,000-year-old math tool!). Lake Edward has seen ages come and go. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of Virunga, and you’ll feel that primordial wonder when you’re out on its shores at dawn, mist rising off the water, with only bird calls and distant primate whoops breaking the silence. It’s like Africa distilled into one lake. And yes, you can totally brag that you visited “Lake Idi Amin” your trivia for the day, courtesy of Edward’s quirky history ! 5. Lake Mweru A lakeside settlement lines the edge of Lake Mweru, blending rural life with rich wetlands Location & Vibe: Down in the southeast, along the border with Zambia, sprawls Lake Mweru a broad, tranquil expanse whose very name literally means “lake” (that’s right, locals basically call it “Lake Lake,” which shows you how central it is to life here ). Mweru is off the typical tourist trail, giving it an end-of-the-world serenity. Its waters gleam a deep blue, and along the Congolese side, you’ll find rustic fishing villages like Pweto, Kilwa, and Lukonzolwa. Sandy beaches? Yes indeed Mweru boasts stretches of surprisingly white sand especially on some Zambian-side bays, and shallow turquoise shallows where kids play. The vibe is tropical and lazy: think fishermen mending their nets under mango trees, women smoking fish over wood fires, and herons and storks standing guard in the reeds. As evening falls, Lake Mweru truly comes alive with light thousands of floating lanterns bob on the dark water as fishermen set out with kerosene lamps to attract sardines. It’s an absolutely magical sight, like the lake is reflecting a starry sky from below . No wonder folks from as far as Lubumbashi crave the dried “kapenta” (sardines) from Mweru they’re fished by lamp-light and dried in the sun, a taste of the lake you can carry home. Price & Tips: Visiting Mweru is a journey, but not an expensive one. The lake has no entry fee (open-access, like all great lakes) your main costs will be transportation and perhaps hiring a local guide with a boat. A motorized pirogue ride to explore the shoreline or visit an island (like historical Kilwa Island, once a slave-trade hub) might cost about $15–$20 (30,000–40,000 CDF) per hour negotiate fuel costs and don’t forget lifejackets. Accommodation in Pweto is basic; expect to pay around $10–$15 for a simple guesthouse (or bring a tent and camp by the Catholic mission with permission). Local tip: Get up before dawn to witness the fishermen return with their catch. As they pull in their nets at sunrise, you can often buy a bucket of fresh fish for just a couple of dollars (they might even fry some for you on the spot). Also, try the local dish “makayabu” sun-dried, salted fish, usually Mweru tilapia, rehydrated and cooked in tomato sauce. It’s a salty-savory flavor bomb and goes great with fufu (cassava dough). Lastly, keep an eye out for birdlife Lake Mweru’s wetlands host everything from pied kingfishers to African fish eagles. It’s a birdwatcher’s haven, especially around the Luvua River delta. Mweru might be remote, but its unspoiled charm, friendly lakeside communities, and those lantern-lit nights will steal your heart and fill your camera roll. 6. Lake Upemba Location & Vibe: Venture into the savannas of Katanga and you’ll find Lake Upemba, shimmering like a mirage amid the grasses. Upemba isn’t just a lake; it’s the centerpiece of Upemba National Park a vast marshy paradise renowned for its biodiversity. This shallow lake (fed by the Lualaba, the headwaters of the Congo River) sprawls in a patchwork of lagoons, swamps and channels . The vibe? Imagine an African Okavango Delta, but virtually to yourself. Think waterlilies and floating papyrus mats, herds of graceful antelope and zebra grazing on distant floodplains , and flotillas of pelicans sweeping low over the water. Upemba’s shores are often fringed with villages of the Kisale people, who have fished these waters for centuries. You’ll see their cone-shaped fishing traps dotting the shallows and maybe hear the laughter of kids chasing each other along the muddy banks. This lake is teeming with life over 30 species of fish (many found nowhere else) thrive here, and sunbathing crocodiles and snorting hippos are common sights. In the wet season, Lake Upemba swells and merges with dozens of smaller lakes (the Upemba Depression holds about 50 lakes in total!). In dry season, it retreats, leaving a mosaic of ponds that attract wildlife from miles around. It’s raw, remote Africa at its finest. Price & Tips: Being in a national park, visiting Lake Upemba officially requires a park entry fee (around $15 USD for locals, and roughly $20–30 for foreign visitors). However, infrastructure is minimal this is real expedition territory. You’ll likely need a 4x4, a local park guide (budget ~$20/day for the guide’s fee), and plenty of provisions. For adventurous souls, the park does allow camping at designated sites near the lake (small fee, maybe $10 per tent) and trust us, camping under Upemba’s night sky, with distant hippo grunts as your lullaby, is next-level awesome. ADVERTISEMENT Local insight: The park has had security issues in the past, so check current conditions and go with an experienced guide or tour if possible. Assuming all is well: don’t miss a sunset boat ride on the lake. Rangers or fishermen can take you out in a wooden boat for a few dollars’ fuel gliding through mirrored water at golden hour, you might spot puku antelopes sipping at the shore or clouds of waterbirds swirling in a feeding frenzy. One quirky local legend: they say the Lualaba River spirits guard this lake; fishermen sometimes pour a bit of palm wine into the water as an offering for safe voyages. If someone hands you a calabash of palm wine on your boat ride, you’ll know why! Lake Upemba is a bit of a slog to reach, but those intrepid enough to make the journey are rewarded with pristine wild beauty and serious bragging rights you saw a side of Congo few ever do. 7. Lake Mai-Ndombe Lake Mai-Ndombe stretches like dark glass through the equatorial rainforest Location & Vibe: The name “Mai-Ndombe” literally means “Black Water” in Lingala/Kikongo , and one look at this lake in western DRC tells you why. Lake Mai-Ndombe stretches like dark glass through the equatorial rainforest its waters are stained tea-black by humic acids from decaying plants, giving it a mysterious, inky appearance. This large shallow lake (roughly the size of Rhode Island) lies in a remote province of the same name, forming part of one of the world’s largest wetlands (the Tumba-Ngiri-Mai-Ndombe Ramsar site). The vibe here is Jurassic Park meets National Geographic . Dense jungle lines much of the shore, with occasional openings where fishing villages perch on stilts above swampy ground. It’s common to see pirogues carved from giant logs gliding silently through floating forests, fishermen casting nets at dawn’s first light. The lake’s surface is often eerily calm, reflecting thunderclouds or a fiery sunset in perfect symmetry. Bird lovers, rejoice flocks of African jacanas, herons, egrets, and even the rare shoebill stork patrol these waters . You might spot otters playing in the shallows or hear the splash of a crocodile slipping off a sunning spot. Life for locals revolves around the lake’s pulse: seasonal floods can double its size , and villagers adapt by building houses on raised platforms and traveling by canoe as much as by foot. Price & Tips: Getting to Mai-Ndombe is half the adventure. There’s no fee to access the lake, but you’ll likely need to hire a motorboat or canoe guide from the town of Inongo (the main settlement on its southern shore). A motorized canoe day-trip might run about $30–$50 in fuel, depending on distance bargain hard and ensure fuel is included (gas isn’t cheap this deep in the interior!). Alternatively, hitch a ride on local transport boats that ply the Fimi River between Inongo and Kinshasa it’s slow (multi-day) but costs only a few dollars and is quite the cultural experience, sleeping on deck under the stars with friendly Congolese traders. Local tip: The lake’s black waters are very acidic (pH ~4.5-5), meaning few mosquitoes a blessing! However, that hasn’t stopped an innovative (if concerning) fishing practice: in recent years, some fishermen repurpose mosquito nets for fishing, which unfortunately catches even juvenile fish (a problem highlighted in a documentary called “Black Water”). As a visitor, be a responsible guest support sustainable fishing by buying from folks using proper nets or lines. Also, venture into the surrounding swamp forest with a local tracker if you can; you might see endemic species like the bonobo (yes, endangered bonobos live north of the lake) or hear the calls of grey parrots overhead. In the evenings, join villagers for story time around the fire you might hear tales of Mbenga, the lake spirit said to protect fishermen from storms. Under a sky crowded with stars and with the lake’s black mirror stretching beyond, you’ll feel the pull of Mai-Ndombe’s magic…and understand why some secrets here are known only to the waters. 8. Lake Tumba Framed by emerald hills and still waters, Lake Tumba offers a quieter, lesser-known twin to Mai-Ndombe's dramatic landscape. Location & Vibe: Just 120 km northwest of Mai-Ndombe lies her smaller sibling, Lake Tumba (also called Ntomba ). If Mai-Ndombe is all about dark mystery, Lake Tumba is about quiet charm. This shallow lake (barely 6 meters at its deepest ) expands and shrinks with the seasons, flooding into the surrounding forests and then retreating. The vibe is tranquil and timeless. During high water, the lake overflows into a maze of channels linking to the Congo River; in low water, it becomes a gentle giant bordered by green. Local Mongo communities live around Lake Tumba, and here’s an anthropological nugget: the Mongo people in this area include two main groups the Oto, who are farming folk, and the Twa (pygmies), who are fishing specialists . Thus, around Tumba you’ll encounter a unique cultural blend: tall Bantu farmers cultivating cassava and maize on the higher ground, and shorter Twa fisher-folk deftly navigating the lake’s backwaters and setting clever fish traps. The lake’s surface often turns golden at sunrise, as fishermen in carved canoes cast their nets, singing to coordinate their efforts. Birdsong is a constant soundtrack expect everything from whistling ducks to dazzling kingfishers. And if you’re lucky, you might catch sight of a sitatunga (swamp-dwelling antelope) peeking through the reeds, or even hear the distant grunt of a forest elephant (yes, they roam the swamp forests). Lake Tumba feels like a place where humans and nature have struck a harmonious chord. Price & Tips: Lake Tumba is freely accessible, but reaching it requires some determination. Most visitors come via Mbandaka, the nearest city, then travel south by boat or 4x4 to Tumba’s shores. In terms of cost: a local pirogue ride can be hired for as little as $5 per hour (10,000 CDF), and it’s absolutely worth it to explore the lake’s numerous inlets and possibly pay a visit to a Twa village on the water. Bring small gifts if you plan to visit communities (salt, fishing hooks, or sugar are appreciated tokens of friendship). Accommodations are virtually non-existent, so either plan a homestay (ask the village chief; hospitality is usually offered for a token fee or gift) or camp with your own gear. Local insight: The area around Lake Tumba has some intriguing history it was first “discovered” by Henry Morton Stanley in 1883 during his grand river expedition. He wrote about the “pygmy fishermen of Tumba” in awe. Today, you can still see the traditional fishing techniques he marveled at: men standing in dugouts, using long spear-like harpoons to catch giant catfish, or setting up conical nets that funnel fish like a corral. For a special treat, ask if there’s any “Liboke” happening this is a local dish where fish (often the tasty capitaine, aka Nile perch) is wrapped in marantaceae leaves with spices and smoked over coals. Savor it by the lakeside as the day cools. As night falls, fireflies flicker over the water’s edge, and the forest hums to life. On Lake Tumba, you’ll truly feel one with nature – a peaceful pause in your Congo adventures. 9. Lake Tshangalele (Lufira Reservoir) A satellite view of the Tshangalele Reservoir, a vital water body etched into southeastern DRC’s copperbelt. Location & Vibe: Heading back to the south, not far from Lubumbashi, we find Lake Tshangalele a man-made reservoir that has become one of Katanga’s favorite nature escapes. Formed by a 1920s dam on the Lufira River, Lake Tshangalele spreads out to about 410 km², creating a vast oasis in the otherwise dry highlands east of Likasi. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Visit DR Congo Maï-Ndombe River: Discover a Hidden Natural Treasure Near Kinshasa . Entertainment Papa Wemba: The Enduring Voice of Congo and His Lasting Legacy . Visit DR Congo Lake Ma Vallée: Kinshasa's Historic Nature Escape . Visit DR Congo Zongo Falls: A Complete Travel Guide to Kongo Central’s Natural Escape . Visit DR Congo Limete Interchange: The Story Behind Kinshasa's Iconic Tower . ADVERTISEMENT Despite its artificial origin, the lake feels totally natural now, with gentle waves lapping against grassy banks and acacia-dotted hills rolling in the background. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise think flocks of pink-backed pelicans, rows of sleek cormorants sunning their wings, and the occasional visiting flamingos painting the shallows pink. Weekends see a fun, local vibe: families from Likasi and Lubumbashi drive out with cars full of picnic baskets, kids, and pets. They’ve even dubbed one spot “La Plage” (the beach) a stretch of sand where you’ll find people barbecuing goat brochettes, playing music, and frolicking in the water (which, by the way, is refreshingly cool year-round at this altitude ~1100m). For the adventure-inclined, the lake offers kayaking and sailing opportunities; there’s a modest water-sports club near the dam, and rumor has it a curious hippo likes to visit those parts, possibly attracted by all the human merriment . In essence, Tshangalele combines scenic tranquility on weekdays with jovial, family-friendly energy on weekends. Price & Tips: Access to Lake Tshangalele is mostly free. If you’re entering via the official dam road, guards might ask for a token entry fee or registration (usually just a couple of dollars or a note in the logbook). There are no formal tour fees here, but if you want a boat ride, you can often rent a fisherman’s pirogue or a rudimentary sailboat for about $8–$10 per hour (15,000–20,000 CDF). The drive from Lubumbashi takes ~2 hours; hiring a taxi or driver for a day will run around $50 consider teaming up with other travelers to split the cost. Local tip: Bring your own food and drinks to fully enjoy a lakeside picnic there are scant services by the water aside from maybe a small kiosk selling beverages. One beloved local snack to try if you can source it beforehand is “Chikwangue with mbishi” that’s cassava bread with spicy grilled caterpillars (trust us, it’s much tastier than it sounds, and full of protein!). Also, keep your binoculars handy: over 300 bird species have been recorded around Tshangalele , from African fish eagles to rare wattled cranes. Early morning and dusk are prime times for bird activity and you’ll also catch the lake in its most photogenic light then. If you’re a fishing enthusiast, cast a line! Locals pull in tilapia, catfish, and even the occasional Tiger fish (a feisty, toothy game fish). Whether you come for relaxation or recreation, Lake Tshangalele will show you a refreshing side of Congolese life where nature and community chill out together. 10. Lake Mukamba Location & Vibe: Rounding out our list is a lake steeped in mystery and legend. Tucked in Kasai-Oriental, about 87 km from Mbuji-Mayi, lies Lake Mukamba a serene, oval-shaped lake with a past as deep as its waters. Mukamba’s vibe is almost mystical. It sits isolated among gentle hills, its surface often glassy in the early morning, disturbed only by the plop of fish or the distant silhouette of a lone canoe. For centuries, local Luntu people have lived around Mukamba and passed down an incredible origin story: They say that long ago, this lake didn’t exist until one fateful day when water mysteriously welled up from the ground, engulfing entire villages and forming the lake in a single terrifying sweep . The survivors spoke of it taking the shape of a giant human lying with arms outstretched indeed, from the air the lake’s outline vaguely resembles a person or a bird in flight . Even today, elders whisper that Lake Mukamba holds secrets “never revealed to ordinary people”. Spooky stuff, right? In day-to-day terms, Mukamba is a beloved local treasure. The waters are clear and teem with fish, notably tigerfish (known locally as “mbenga” vicious fighters on the line and delicious on the grill). The shoreline alternates between marshy patches alive with frogs and waterbirds, and firmer ground shaded by tall mango and palm trees where villagers cultivate crops. Sunsets here are unreal, turning the placid lake into a mirror of molten gold. At night, you might see campfires of fishermen glinting onshore and hear drums or songs yes, folks around Mukamba love a good bonfire jam session, often praising the lake in their songs. Price & Tips: Visiting Lake Mukamba can be done via a guided excursion (Congo Travel & Tours offers a 2-day trip, albeit at a hefty $600+ price). But if you’re adventurous and resourceful, you can DIY with local help. There’s no fee to visit the lake itself. You can hire a car or motorbike from Mbuji-Mayi (budget $100 for a 4x4 day rental with driver, or about $15 for a mototaxi if you pack light and your spine is ready for the bumpy ride). Once at the lake, ask for the village chief in Mukamba village he can usually arrange a canoe for you (tip the paddler ~$5-10) and even an overnight homestay in a basic guest hut (a gift of maybe $10 or some supplies is polite). Local tip: Do try fishing here Lake Mukamba’s tigerfish are legendary. You might need to bring your own rod, but local fishermen can provide bait and pointers. Imagine reeling in a thrashing, silver-and-black tigerfish as local kids cheer you on priceless! If you catch one, the custom is to share the catch in a communal feast. They’ll help roast it over a wood fire, and you’ll dine under the stars on the lakeshore, enjoying fish so fresh it practically melts in your mouth. Also, be sure to ask the elders to show you the “shape of the lake” lore: some will draw it in the sand, recounting how it’s a giant fallen from the sky or a sacred bird. It’s part of what makes Mukamba more than just a pretty lake it’s a place of living legend. As you depart, you might just feel a tingle, as if Mukamba’s ancient secret gently brushed by you. Or maybe that’s just the chill from the lake’s morning mist. Either way, Lake Mukamba closes our list with a touch of enchantment, reminding us that in DRC, every beautiful vista can also be a doorway to myth and history. From the towering depths of Tanganyika to the whispered mysteries of Mukamba, the lakes of DR Congo are as diverse as the country itself. Some are world-famous wonders, others well-kept local secrets all are integral to the communities and wildlife that depend on them. Whether you’re into extreme biodiversity, cultural encounters, or just a cold drink by a warm sunset, there’s a Congolese lake calling your name. So pack your sense of adventure (and maybe a fishing rod or binoculars), and dive into these aquatic gems. After all, as we say in Congo, “Maji makwetu hayatulii” “our waters never rest” which is a poetic way of saying there’s always something happening on the lakefront. Safe travels and see you on the shores! ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Visit DR Congo Maï-Ndombe River: Discover a Hidden Natural Treasure Near Kinshasa Explore the river's geography, dark waters, local communities and potential for responsible tourism . Entertainment Papa Wemba: The Enduring Voice of Congo and His Lasting Legacy From rumba and SAPE to La Dernière Symphonie, explore Papa Wemba's legacy ten years after his death. . Visit DR Congo Lake Ma Vallée: Kinshasa's Historic Nature Escape Discover the history, activities and environmental importance of this green retreat in Mont-Ngafula . Visit DR Congo Zongo Falls: A Complete Travel Guide to Kongo Central’s Natural Escape Plan a trip to Zongo Falls with routes, accommodation, safety tips and a suggested two-day itinerary . Tags Visit Congo Visit Congo Travel Blog Travel Blog DR.Congo DR.Congo DR.Congo Landmarks DR.Congo Landmarks Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism Travel Blog Travel Blog Travel Africa Travel Africa

UN officials reaffirm support for Faure Gnassingbé's mediation as efforts continue to resolve the eastern DRC conflict. African Union mediator Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé has intensified efforts to coordinate peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo , following a high-level meeting with senior United Nations officials in Lomé. According to a report by Actualité.cd , the UN reaffirmed its support for the Togolese leader's mediation role during talks held on June 8. The discussions brought together James Swan, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative in the DRC and head of MONUSCO, and Huang Xia, the UN Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region. The meeting focused on the progress of ongoing diplomatic initiatives and ways the United Nations can support African Union-led efforts toward a lasting settlement of the crisis in eastern Congo. According to the Togolese presidency, both UN officials welcomed Togo's commitment to promoting peace, stability and the peaceful resolution of conflicts across Africa. They also pledged continued support for Gnassingbé's role as the African Union's designated mediator, a position he assumed after succeeding Angolan President João Lourenço in the regional peace process. The meeting took place alongside a biannual review of mediation efforts in the Great Lakes region, reflecting growing international efforts to align diplomatic initiatives. Togo has increasingly emerged as a central platform for consultations involving the African Union, the United Nations and regional stakeholders seeking a coordinated approach to the conflict. Despite these diplomatic efforts, the security and humanitarian situation in eastern DRC remains fragile. The implementation of agreements reached through various initiatives, including the Washington process and talks facilitated by Qatar in Doha, continues to face obstacles as key parties remain divided over major provisions and commitments. Kinshasa continues to accuse Rwanda of supporting the AFC/M23 rebellion, an allegation Kigali denies and accepts sometimes . Meanwhile, mediators face the challenge of narrowing the gap between diplomatic commitments and realities on the ground, where violence and displacement continue to affect communities across eastern Congo. The renewed backing from the United Nations is expected to strengthen ongoing African Union efforts as regional and international actors seek to revive momentum toward a durable political and security solution. Continue Reading Full Article DRC PEACE EFFORT UN Reaffirms Support for Faure Gnassingbé's Mediation in Eastern DRC By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 9, 2026 Jun 9, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: African Union mediator Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé has intensified efforts to coordinate peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo , following a high-level meeting with senior United Nations officials in Lomé. According to a report by Actualité.cd , the UN reaffirmed its support for the Togolese leader's mediation role during talks held on June 8. The discussions brought together James Swan, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative in the DRC and head of MONUSCO, and Huang Xia, the UN Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region. The meeting focused on the progress of ongoing diplomatic initiatives and ways the United Nations can support African Union-led efforts toward a lasting settlement of the crisis in eastern Congo. ADVERTISEMENT According to the Togolese presidency, both UN officials welcomed Togo's commitment to promoting peace, stability and the peaceful resolution of conflicts across Africa. They also pledged continued support for Gnassingbé's role as the African Union's designated mediator, a position he assumed after succeeding Angolan President João Lourenço in the regional peace process. The meeting took place alongside a biannual review of mediation efforts in the Great Lakes region, reflecting growing international efforts to align diplomatic initiatives. ADVERTISEMENT Togo has increasingly emerged as a central platform for consultations involving the African Union, the United Nations and regional stakeholders seeking a coordinated approach to the conflict. Despite these diplomatic efforts, the security and humanitarian situation in eastern DRC remains fragile. The implementation of agreements reached through various initiatives, including the Washington process and talks facilitated by Qatar in Doha, continues to face obstacles as key parties remain divided over major provisions and commitments. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service 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 . ADVERTISEMENT Kinshasa continues to accuse Rwanda of supporting the AFC/M23 rebellion, an allegation Kigali denies and accepts sometimes . Meanwhile, mediators face the challenge of narrowing the gap between diplomatic commitments and realities on the ground, where violence and displacement continue to affect communities across eastern Congo. The renewed backing from the United Nations is expected to strengthen ongoing African Union efforts as regional and international actors seek to revive momentum toward a durable political and security solution. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles 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 UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress What otjize, jewelry, hairstyles, and clothing represent in Himba culture . Tags Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo African Union African Union DRC Politics DRC Politics DR Congo News DR Congo News African Union African Union