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American streamer IShowSpeed says Nigerian jollof rice is the best in Africa after tasting it during a livestream in Lagos. Entertainment IShowSpeed Says Nigerian Jollof Rice Is the Best in Africa American streamer IShowSpeed says Nigerian jollof rice is the best in Africa after tasting it during a livestream in Lagos. Published: January 23, 2026 at 9:15:44 AM Modified: January 23, 2026 at 9:15:44 AM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Famous American streamer Darren Jason Watkins Jr. , popularly known as IShowSpeed, has described Nigerian jollof rice as the best in Africa. The content creator made the remark during a livestream in Lagos, where he joined the ongoing debate over which African country produces the best jollof rice. IShowSpeed , who recently traveled to Nigeria from Senegal, said Nigerian jollof tasted better than the Senegalese version he had previously tried. He had earlier streamed Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations trophy parade before arriving in Lagos. “ Nigerian jollof rice is good. It tastes better than Senegal jollof rice,” he said during the livestream. “I think I would have to go with Nigeria in terms of which country has the best jollof rice.” The comment has since sparked reactions online, adding to the long-running jollof rivalry among West African countries. Source: Daily Post ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment United States United States Keep Reading Entertainment IShowSpeed Says Nigerian Jollof Rice Is the Best in Africa American streamer praises Nigerian jollof during Lagos livestream, comparing it with Senegal’s . Entertainment Drake appeals court ruling over Kendrick Lamar diss track Rapper challenges dismissal of defamation lawsuit tied to “Not Like Us” . Hollywood Updates Taraji P. Henson Reveals What It’s Like Behind The Masked Singer Actress says the Scarab costume was fun, and jokes about recruiting Viola Davis for the show . Entertainment IShowSpeed Declares Nigerian Jollof Rice the Best Worldwide Streamer makes the remark during Lagos livestream after comparing Nigerian and Senegalese jollof .

At Davos 2026, the DRC positioned itself as a strategic power in the green transition, using its cobalt dominance to push reforms, value-add, and partnerships. D.R.Congo, DRC Mining DRC President Felix Tshisekedi Why the World Needs Congo for the Green Energy Future? At Davos 2026, the DRC positioned itself as a strategic power in the green transition, using its cobalt dominance to push reforms, value-add, and partnerships. Published: January 23, 2026 at 6:53:38 AM Modified: January 23, 2026 at 6:56:50 AM Written By | Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda At the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) positioned itself not just as a resource supplier but as a strategic actor shaping the future of the global energy transition. Behind the speeches and side events lies a simple reality: without Congo, the green energy transition cannot scale. Why Congo matters to the green transition The global shift toward electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and decarbonised infrastructure is fundamentally mineral-dependent. Cobalt , a key component in lithium-ion batteries, is essential for electric cars, grid storage, and renewable technologies. The DRC supplies around 70% of the world’s cobalt, giving it unmatched leverage in the clean-energy value chain. As EV demand accelerates across Europe, China, and North America, securing reliable, ethical, and sustainable c obalt supplies has become a strategic priority for governments and corporations alike. This is where Congo’s message at Davos was clear: access to critical minerals must now go hand-in-hand with governance, stability, and responsible production. Congo’s strategy at Davos 2026 Speaking at a high-level side event, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo framed the DRC as a “solution country” for the climate and energy challenges of the 21st century. Rather than focusing solely on extraction, Congolese authorities highlighted a broader economic strategy built on reform, value creation, and international partnership. Three pillars stood out. First, the government emphasised the need to attract responsible investment by improving stability, security, and economic predictability. For global investors wary of supply disruptions and reputational risks, Congo presented itself as a partner willing to align mineral production with international standards. Second, Tshisekedi underscored reforms aimed at strengthening governance, transparency, and traceability in the mining sector. These measures are designed to combat corruption, reduce illicit supply chains, and reassure markets that Congolese cobalt can meet ESG and compliance requirements increasingly demanded by Western and Asian manufacturers. Third, Congo pushed for local processing and industrialisation. Rather than exporting raw materials, Kinshasa is seeking to retain more value domestically by developing refining, battery precursors, and downstream industries, a shift that could create jobs, diversify the economy, and rebalance global supply chains. Why this matters for the world economy For global markets, Congo’s approach signals a significant shift in its approach. The green transition is no longer just about securing minerals at the lowest cost; it is about securing them sustainably, politically, and ethically. As supply chains tighten and geopolitical competition over critical minerals intensifies, Congo’s stability and policy choices will increasingly affect EV prices, battery availability, and climate targets worldwide. For developed economies, engaging Congo as a strategic partner — rather than a passive supplier- is becoming an economic necessity. For the DRC, leveraging its mineral wealth through governance and value addition is central to transforming natural resources into long-term development. A country-solution, not just a resource base By asserting itself at Davos 2026, the DRC sent a clear signal: it intends to convert its mineral dominance into economic sovereignty and shared prosperity. Whether this strategy succeeds will depend on implementation, investor confidence, and sustained reforms. But one fact is already clear — the global green energy future runs through Congo, and the world can no longer afford to ignore how that future is shaped. ADVERTISEMENT DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo Keep Reading Regional Economy Why the World Needs Congo for the Green Energy Future? As demand for electric vehicles grows, Congo’s cobalt and clean-mining reforms take center stage . Mining and Minerals DRC and Saudi Arabia Advance Strategic Mining Cooperation Ministers agree on a concrete roadmap to implement the mining MoU signed in 2024. . Business & Investment Tshisekedi’s Grand Strategy at Davos 2026 Tshisekedi’s Grand Strategy: Inside His Bid to Redefine Africa’s Place in the Global Order . Business & Investment DRC Mines Ministry and AFA Partner to Mobilise Diaspora Investment DR Congo Mines Ministry Partners With Africans for Africa Initiative to Mobilise Diaspora Investment .

Taraji P. Henson shares behind-the-scenes details from The Masked Singer, including costume secrets and a joke about Viola Davi Entertainment Taraji P. Henson Reveals What It’s Like Behind The Masked Singer Taraji P. Henson shares behind-the-scenes details from The Masked Singer, including costume secrets and a joke about Viola Davi Published: January 23, 2026 at 7:13:14 AM Modified: January 23, 2026 at 7:13:14 AM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Taraji P. Henson has opened up about her time on The Masked Singer , sharing what it was like performing on the show while hidden behind the Scarab costume. Taraji P. Henson gives fans gli… The actress said she enjoyed watching the judges speculate about her identity, noting that some of the guesses—including names like Viola Davis and Angela Bassett —made her laugh. Taraji P. Henson gives fans gli… Henson also admitted she felt a bit frustrated when judge Rita Ora correctly identified her, adding that she would approach things differently if she had another chance to stay anonymous longer. Taraji P. Henson gives fans gli… According to the actress, joining the show was not about trends or attention. She said she follows what excites her creatively and believes her fans will continue to support her across different projects. Taraji P. Henson gives fans gli … Henson additionally joked that viewers may have recognized her through her gestures and the way she spoke during performances. Taraji P. Henson gives fans gli… Her appearance offered fans a lighter glimpse of her personality, highlighting her excitement for entertainment, friendship, and fun. Taraji P. Henson gives fans gli… Source Geo News Digital Desk ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment United States United States Keep Reading Hollywood Updates Taraji P. Henson Reveals What It’s Like Behind The Masked Singer Actress says the Scarab costume was fun, and jokes about recruiting Viola Davis for the show . Entertainment IShowSpeed Declares Nigerian Jollof Rice the Best Worldwide Streamer makes the remark during Lagos livestream after comparing Nigerian and Senegalese jollof . Entertainment Drake appeals court ruling over Kendrick Lamar diss track Rapper challenges dismissal of defamation lawsuit tied to “Not Like Us” . Entertainment Taylor Swift Becomes Youngest Woman in Songwriters Hall of Fame Pop star joins 2026 inductees after record-breaking albums and historic Grammy achievements .

Drake has filed an appeal after a U.S. judge dismissed his defamation lawsuit linked to Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us.” Entertainment Drake appeals court ruling over Kendrick Lamar diss track Drake has filed an appeal after a U.S. judge dismissed his defamation lawsuit linked to Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us.” Published: January 22, 2026 at 10:05:39 PM Modified: January 22, 2026 at 10:05:39 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Drake has filed an appeal in a U.S. Court of Appeals following the dismissal of his defamation lawsuit connected to Kendrick Lamar’ s diss track Not Like Us . The appeal was officially submitted on January 21 after a federal judge ruled in October 2025 that the song’s lyrics were protected opinion rather than statements of fact. The case was brought against Universal Music Group , which Drake accused of worsening the alleged damage through its promotion of the track. The legal dispute began in January 2025, when Drake claimed the song harmed his reputation by including allegations he described as defamatory. Kendrick Lamar is not named as a defendant in the lawsuit. Drake’s legal team has argued that the lyrics were presented as factual assertions and that marketing strategies surrounding the track misled listeners, causing further reputational harm. Court records show Drake first filed a notice of appeal in November 2025, formally launching the appellate process. The case continues to draw attention within the music industry due to its potential implications for artistic expression and defamation law. Source: Geo News Digital Desk, ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment United States United States Keep Reading Entertainment Drake appeals court ruling over Kendrick Lamar diss track Rapper challenges dismissal of defamation lawsuit tied to “Not Like Us” . Entertainment Taylor Swift Becomes Youngest Woman in Songwriters Hall of Fame Pop star joins 2026 inductees after record-breaking albums and historic Grammy achievements . Entertainment IShowSpeed Declares Nigerian Jollof Rice the Best Worldwide Streamer makes the remark during Lagos livestream after comparing Nigerian and Senegalese jollof . Entertainment Kwesi Arthur Says He Earned Nothing From Music Under Ground Up Artiste accuses former management of intimidation, financial demands and blocking releases .

American streamer IShowSpeed says Nigerian jollof rice is the best after tasting both Nigerian and Senegalese versions during a Lagos livestream. Entertainment IShowSpeed Declares Nigerian Jollof Rice the Best Worldwide American streamer IShowSpeed says Nigerian jollof rice is the best after tasting both Nigerian and Senegalese versions during a Lagos livestream. Published: January 22, 2026 at 9:29:08 PM Modified: January 22, 2026 at 9:29:08 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal American streamer Darren Jason Watkins Jr ., popularly known as IShowSpeed , has described Nigerian jollof rice as the best in the world. The remark was made on Wednesday during his livestream in Lagos, where he weighed in on the long-running debate over which African country produces the best jollof rice. The discussion followed his arrival in Nigeria from Senegal, where he had earlier streamed the country’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy parade. During the livestream, IShowSpeed compared Nigerian and Senegalese jollof rice based on his recent experience tasting both dishes. “ Nigerian jollof rice is good. It tastes better than Senegal jollof rice. I think I would have to go with Nigeria in terms of which country has the best jollof rice,” he said. His comments quickly drew reactions online, adding fresh fuel to the popular culinary rivalry across West Africa. Source: Tribune Online ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment United States United States Keep Reading Entertainment IShowSpeed Declares Nigerian Jollof Rice the Best Worldwide Streamer makes the remark during Lagos livestream after comparing Nigerian and Senegalese jollof . Entertainment Kwesi Arthur Says He Earned Nothing From Music Under Ground Up Artiste accuses former management of intimidation, financial demands and blocking releases . Entertainment Taylor Swift Becomes Youngest Woman in Songwriters Hall of Fame Pop star joins 2026 inductees after record-breaking albums and historic Grammy achievements . Entertainment Jose Chameleone Launches Radio Station in Burundi East African music star opens Chameleone FM 94.9 in Bujumbura after pledge to Burundi president .

Banyamulenge leader Enock Sebineza exposes Rwanda and M23 for using his community as a cover for occupation, chaos, and ethnic manipulation in Congo. D.R.Congo Enock Sebineza, the President of the Banyamulenge community, "Rwanda Is Not Protecting Us, It Is Exploiting Us.” Enock Sebineza Banyamulenge leader Enock Sebineza exposes Rwanda and M23 for using his community as a cover for occupation, chaos, and ethnic manipulation in Congo. Published: January 22, 2026 at 7:44:13 PM Modified: January 22, 2026 at 7:44:13 PM Written By | Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Enock Sebineza, the President of the Banyamulenge community, has delivered one of the strongest public denunciations on interview @rtncofficielle1 yet of Rwanda and the M23, accusing them of using his community as a cover for occupation, looting, and long-term destabilisation in eastern DR Congo. His message is clear: the Banyamulenge are Congolese, and they refuse to be used as a political weapon. THEY WANTED TO CREATE CHAOS IN UVIRA Sebineza says the withdrawal of M23 from Uvira should not be mistaken for goodwill. According to him, the group entered the city with one objective: create disorder, spark violence, and produce a crisis that could be blamed on Congolese communities. He admits that looting and tensions followed, but insists their bigger plan failed. "THEY DID NOT ACHIEVE THEIR OBJECTIVES," HE SAID “We Have Been Denouncing Rwanda’s Plan for 30 Years” In a direct rejection of Kigali’s propaganda, Sebineza says Rwanda’s presence in Congo has never been about protecting Banyamulenge civilians. He reminded the public that Banyamulenge leaders have warned about Rwanda’s manipulation for three decades, including since the 1996 wars. “Rwanda comes for its own interests, to plunder Congo’s resources,” he said. “And to push us, the Banyamulenge, out of Congo.” THE DEPORTATION PLAN IS REAL Sebineza confirmed that what happened in Uvira follows a long-standing pattern: intimidation, forced movement, and staged “protection” narratives. He accused M23 of leaving Uvira while taking part of the Banyamulenge population with them, not as a rescue, but as forced displacement. Some reportedly refused to leave. Others were pressured or compelled. “They want to deport us and take us to Rwanda,” he warned. “But we continue to resist.” RWANDA PLAYS BOTH ARSONIST AND FIREFIGHTER Sebineza used one of the most powerful descriptions in the interview: Rwanda creates conflict, and then presents itself as the solution. He says local disputes in eastern Congo do exist, but Rwanda exploits them deliberately. “They pour petrol on the fire,” he said, “then pretend to come as firefighters.” This is why he urges all Congolese communities not to fall into ethnic traps. “We must not give in to Rwanda’s pressure,” he said. “So we don’t end up killing each other.” THIS WITHDRAWAL IS NOT PEACE, IT IS DIPLOMATIC THEATER Sebineza strongly rejected claims that M23’s pullback from Uvira represents appeasement. He insists Rwanda cannot act in good faith and that its forces remain dangerously close, repositioned for future operations. He stated that instead of returning to where they came from (Kamanyola/Katogota axis), they have restructured their presence and continued occupying strategic highlands. “They are not far. They are still there,” he said. WE ARE THE TRIPLE VICTIMS Sebineza described the Banyamulenge as trapped inside a brutal triangle: Rwanda uses them as an excuse; M23 acts in their name, and civilians suffer the backlash. “Rwanda exploits us,” he said. “We are Congolese, and like all other Congolese, we are victims too.” "The Congolese government has a plan. We support peaceful coexistence." He confirmed he has engaged Congolese authorities in Kinshasa and welcomed the government’s security plan to stabilise Uvira. He acknowledged the looting and chaos that followed the withdrawal, but thanked God that the city did not descend into mass killings. “They prepared chaos that could lead to murder,” he said. “But thank God, there were no deaths.” ADVERTISEMENT DR.Congo DR.Congo Keep Reading Justice & Crime "Rwanda Is Not Protecting Us, It Is Exploiting Us.” Enock Sebineza Enock Sebineza denounces Rwanda’s role in destabilizing DRC and manipulating the Banyamulenge . Regional Economy DRC offers state mineral assets to US investors under pact Shortlist includes manganese, copper-cobalt and lithium projects . War in Eastern DRC DRC Says M23 Rebel Group Must Not Be Confused with Banyamulenge Rwanda uses Banyamulenge identity as war cover, says DRC . Government Announcements DRC: Kinshasa Launches Uvira Recovery Plan Kinshasa unveils its recovery plan for Uvira following the partial withdrawal of M23/RDF forces .

Taylor Swift has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, becoming the youngest female artist to receive the honour. Entertainment Taylor Swift Becomes Youngest Woman in Songwriters Hall of Fame Taylor Swift has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, becoming the youngest female artist to receive the honour. Published: January 22, 2026 at 7:43:42 PM Modified: January 22, 2026 at 7:43:42 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Taylor Swift has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, becoming the youngest female artist to receive the honour. The 36-year-old pop star is among nine songwriters named in the Hall of Fame’s 2026 class , which also includes A, lanis MorissetteWalter Afanasieff , Christopher “Tricky” Stewart, and members of the rock band Kiss, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons . Swift will be officially welcomed during a private induction ceremony in New York later this year. Founded in 1969, the Songwriters Hall of Fame recognises songwriters whose work has made a lasting impact on popular music. Fewer than 500 individuals have been inducted over the past five decades. Announcing the 2026 class, chairman Nile Rodgers said the group reflects unity across musical genres and honours creators whose songs have influenced billions of listeners worldwide. Swift is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with 12 studio albums and four re-recorded releases. In 2025, her latest album achieved the UK’s biggest opening week of the year, selling more than 300,000 copies in three days. She has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including becoming the first artist to win the Grammy Award for Album of the Year four times. Last year, she also regained ownership of the master recordings for her first six albums, ending a long-running dispute over her music rights. Source BBC ADVERTISEMENT USA USA Entertainment Entertainment Keep Reading Entertainment Taylor Swift Becomes Youngest Woman in Songwriters Hall of Fame Pop star joins 2026 inductees after record-breaking albums and historic Grammy achievements .

Kwesi Arthur alleges he made no income from music released under Ground Up and accuses former management of threats and control. Entertainment Kwesi Arthur Says He Earned Nothing From Music Under Ground Up Kwesi Arthur alleges he made no income from music released under Ground Up and accuses former management of threats and control. Published: January 22, 2026 at 7:09:32 PM Modified: January 22, 2026 at 7:09:32 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Ghanaian musician Kwesi Arthur has alleged that he did not earn any income from music released during his time with the Ground Up Chale collective . The award-winning artiste made the claims in a social media post, accusing music executive Glen boateng and members of the Ground Up Chale team of intimidation, financial demands and efforts to block his independent music releases. Kwesi Arthu r stated that he is being asked to pay $150,000 to use images of himself for a current project. He further claimed that Ground Up Chale asserts ownership over his image, music and all related rights dating back to 2016. In the post, the rapper warned that his safety could be at risk amid the ongoing dispute, adding that any harm to him should be attributed to his former management. He also said that despite no longer working with or having any affiliation with Ground Up Chale since the release of Son of Jacob , he has not received any earnings from music released during his time with the group. Kwesi Arthur further alleged that deliberate attempts are being made to frustrate the release of his independent projects, warning fans that any takedown of his current work should be blamed on his former manager. The artiste explained that he had remained silent for a long time despite the toll the situation had taken on his wellbeing, but decided to speak publicly for safety reasons concerning himself and his family. As of publication, Glen Boateng and Ground Up Chale had not issued a public response to the allegations. Kwesi Arthur recently announced plans to release a new body of work, following calls from fans for him to become more active in his music career. Source Myjoyonline.com ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment Ghanian Musics Ghanian Musics Ghana Ghana Keep Reading Entertainment Kwesi Arthur Says He Earned Nothing From Music Under Ground Up Artiste accuses former management of intimidation, financial demands and blocking releases . Entertainment Obrafour Says He Feels Embarrassed When Sarkodie Kneels Before Him Ghanaian rap legend says public gestures of respect from Sarkodie make him uncomfortable . Entertainment Jose Chameleone Launches Radio Station in Burundi East African music star opens Chameleone FM 94.9 in Bujumbura after pledge to Burundi president . Entertainment A$AP Rocky Announces Dates for ‘Don’t Be Dumb’ World Tour Rapper reveals North America and Europe tour stops supporting his upcoming album .

Jose Chameleone launches Chameleone FM 94.9 in Bujumbura, honoring a pledge made to Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye. Entertainment Jose Chameleone Launches Radio Station in Burundi Jose Chameleone launches Chameleone FM 94.9 in Bujumbura, honoring a pledge made to Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye. Published: January 22, 2026 at 5:36:53 PM Modified: January 22, 2026 at 5:36:53 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Ugandan music star Jose Chameleone has officially launched a radio station in Burundi, fulfilling a pledge he made to President Évariste Ndayishimiye during a visit to the country in December 2025. The radio station, Chameleone FM 94.9 , is based in Bujumbura and has begun broadcasting across the city and nearby areas. The launch marks Chameleone’s formal entry into Burundi’s media industry through private investment. According to information shared at the inauguration, the station will focus on music, entertainment, youth-oriented programs, and cultural content. It will also provide a platform for Burundian artists while promoting music from the East African region and international markets. Speaking at the launch event, Chameleone said the station is intended to connect people through music, culture, and information. He added that his investment reflects his long-standing relationship with Burundi and its citizens. Jose Chameleone, whose real name is Joseph Mayanja , is one of East Africa’s most influential musicians, with a career spanning more than 20 years. His move into broadcasting places him among regional artists expanding into media ownership. Media and entertainment stakeholders in Burundi have welcomed the launch, describing it as a positive contribution to the country’s growing media and creative sectors. Source: InyaRwanda ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment Uganda Uganda Keep Reading Entertainment Jose Chameleone Launches Radio Station in Burundi East African music star opens Chameleone FM 94.9 in Bujumbura after pledge to Burundi president . Entertainment A$AP Rocky Announces Dates for ‘Don’t Be Dumb’ World Tour Rapper reveals North America and Europe tour stops supporting his upcoming album . Entertainment Obrafour Says He Feels Embarrassed When Sarkodie Kneels Before Him Ghanaian rap legend says public gestures of respect from Sarkodie make him uncomfortable . Entertainment Wizkid Says He Is Bigger Than Fela Amid Clash With Seun Kuti Grammy-winning singer makes remarks on Instagram and X during public dispute .

Zanzibar unveils its first tourism campaign in London, branding iconic buses to raise the islands’ profile and draw more international visitors. Economy London, deploying the city’s world-famous double-decker buses as moving billboards to showcase Zanzibar islands. Why zanzibar chose london buses to promote its tourism brand Zanzibar unveils its first tourism campaign in London, branding iconic buses to raise the islands’ profile and draw more international visitors. Published: January 22, 2026 at 11:49:50 AM Modified: January 22, 2026 at 4:35:02 PM Written By | Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Dar es Salaam – Zanzibar has officially launched its first-ever “Visit Zanzibar” marketing campaign in London, deploying the city’s world-famous double-decker buses as moving billboards to showcase the islands. The campaign first reported by Tanzania’s The Citizen newspaper was unveiled by Tanzania ’s High Commissioner to the UK, Mbelwa Kairuki, as a Zanzibar Commission for Tourism (ZCT) initiative aimed at building destination awareness and boosting international arrivals. This landmark push follows Zanzibar President Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi’s visit to London in April 2025, during which expanding the islands’ global tourism presence was a key priority. London Buses Target Global Audience As part of the promotion, Visit Zanzibar -branded buses now depart from London’s Shepherd’s Bush depot and run across high-traffic central routes, reaching local commuters and the roughly 20 million international visitors who toured the UK capital in 2024. One of the primary routes the busy Route 94 through central London carries the Zanzibar ads past iconic landmarks such as Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street, Oxford Street and Marble Arch. By traversing these famous corridors daily, the Zanzibar campaign ensures the islands’ story is seen by countless residents and tourists in the heart of the city. Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Kairuki noted that London is among the world’s most visited cities (over 20 million international visitors a year) and a global gateway connecting Europe, North America, the Middle East and Africa. “For Zanzibar, London is an ideal platform to showcase our islands to a truly international audience. The iconic London bus travels through the very heart of the city, passing millions of residents, commuters and visitors each day, making it one of the most powerful and visible forms of destination advertising,” said Kairuki. He underscored the significance of this being Zanzibar’s first dedicated outdoor marketing campaign in London, designed to present Zanzibar as a premium destination for culture, heritage and warm-weather escapes while strengthening tourism ties with the UK. Strategic Drive to Boost Tourism The Visit Zanzibar campaign is led by ZCT as part of its international marketing and branding strategy. ZCT’s Executive Secretary, Arif Abbas Manji, described the initiative as a historic promotional opportunity to raise Zanzibar’s profile and draw more visitors for greater economic benefit. The United Kingdom is already a priority source market for Zanzibar’s tourism, officials note, and London’s status as a major travel hub means the campaign will engage a broad international audience daily inspiring many to discover Zanzibar’s beaches, culture and hospitality. By pairing an iconic advertising medium with a city that attracts tens of millions of travelers each year, Zanzibar aims to strengthen its ties with the UK market, expand long-haul awareness of the islands, and ultimately drive future visitor arrivals and investment. Tourism is a cornerstone of Zanzibar’s economy, accounting for a significant share of jobs and GDP. The islands have seen record growth in visitors in recent years, with officials projecting around one million tourist arrivals in 2025 the highest in Zanzibar’s history. Against this backdrop, the London bus campaign is one of several efforts to sustain that momentum. Zanzibar’s tourism authorities have been ramping up global outreach from securing new direct flights to participating in international travel expos as they seek to diversify source markets and cement the archipelago’s reputation as one of Africa’s top island destinations Source: The Citizen (Tanzania) ADVERTISEMENT South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services South Africa South Africa Visit Tanzania Visit Tanzania Tanzania Tanzania Africa Africa Keep Reading African Destinations Why zanzibar chose london buses to promote its tourism brand Zanzibar rolls out ads on London's iconic double-decker buses to boost tourism in the UK market. . Justice & Crime Booysens court shooting linked to Mondeor murder trial: Nel Deputy minister says five shot outside Joburg court after pre-trial; two killed, three hurt . Justice & Crime Vaal scholar crash: Driver now faces 14 murder charges Bail bid dropped as case moves to March; death toll rises to 14 after 2 pupils die in hospital. . Accident News SA classifies floods as national disaster across five provinces NDMC cites severe weather since late Nov 2025; CoGTA says national coordination now applies .

The Citizen

The 22-year-old driver in the Vanderbijlpark scholar crash has been charged with 14 counts of murder and abandoned bail. Budget Vaal scholar crash: Driver now faces 14 murder charges The 22-year-old driver in the Vanderbijlpark scholar crash has been charged with 14 counts of murder and abandoned bail. Published: January 22, 2026 at 11:23:55 AM Modified: January 22, 2026 at 11:41:13 AM Written By | Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga A 22-year-old minibus driver linked to the Vanderbijlpark scholar transport crash has been charged with 14 counts of murder after two more pupils died in hospital, taking the death toll to 14. The driver appeared in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court south Africa on Thursday, where he abandoned his bail application. The case was postponed to 5 March for further proceedings as reported by eNCA . Police said the two additional learners died in hospital in the early hours of Thursday morning. Their deaths brought the total number of fatalities in the crash to 14. The crash happened on Monday morning near Vanderbijlpark in Gauteng as pupils were travelling to school. Initial reports in the days after the collision varied as authorities worked to verify casualties and identify victims, with some updates placing the toll at 12 before later deaths were confirmed . Charges upgraded as investigation continues Prosecutors initially enrolled the matter as culpable homicide, but the National Prosecuting Authority said the charges have since been changed to murder. The driver also faces three counts of attempted murder, alongside allegations of reckless and negligent driving. Earlier police briefings following the crash had indicated the driver was facing multiple counts of culpable homicide, reflecting the status of the case before Thursday’s charge upgrade. Authorities have not yet provided full detail in court on the basis for the escalation from culpable homicide to murder, but investigators have indicated they are still probing the circumstances of the collision, including compliance issues linked to scholar transport operations. Permit concerns and alleged overtaking Officials have also raised concerns about the driver’s documentation at the time of the crash. The Citizen reported that Gauteng authorities established the driver’s professional driving permit had expired in November 2025. In addition, investigators have said it is understood the driver was attempting to overtake other vehicles when the crash happened on Monday. The South African Police Service has said investigations remain ongoing and that the driver will be questioned further as evidence is gathered. Focus on compliance and scholar transport safety The tragedy has renewed scrutiny of private scholar transport safety and oversight in Gauteng and beyond. Police previously confirmed the scholar transport vehicle involved in the crash was overloaded, carrying 18 people despite being certified for 14. Authorities said compliance checks and enforcement actions have been stepped up in the aftermath. In a separate incident highlighted by East Coast Radio, Gauteng transport officials stopped another scholar transport vehicle in Centurion and found multiple alleged violations, including false number plates and a driver without a professional driving permit. Preliminary report expected A preliminary report by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) was expected on Thursday, 22 January, as investigators work to determine contributing factors and whether any traffic or operating licence requirements were breached . For now, authorities say the Vanderbijlpark case remains a developing matter, with court proceedings continuing and further updates expected as investigations are finalised. Source: eNCA . ADVERTISEMENT South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services South Africa South Africa Keep Reading Justice & Crime Durban school protest over claims foreign learners get priority School says 968 of 1,548 pupils are South African as police monitor renewed picket in Durban. . Justice & Crime Booysens court shooting linked to Mondeor murder trial: Nel Deputy minister says five shot outside Joburg court after pre-trial; two killed, three hurt . Justice & Crime Vaal scholar crash: Driver now faces 14 murder charges Bail bid dropped as case moves to March; death toll rises to 14 after 2 pupils die in hospital. . Accident News SA classifies floods as national disaster across five provinces NDMC cites severe weather since late Nov 2025; CoGTA says national coordination now applies .