Researchers are tracking a deadly split among Kibale’s Ngogo chimpanzees. Researchers are focusing fresh attention on Kibale Forest National Park after an NTV Uganda report highlighted deadly violence within the Ngogo chimpanzee community, one of the largest known wild chimpanzee groups. The conflict has drawn international scientific interest because researchers say the once-cohesive group split into Western and Central factions before years of lethal attacks followed. The University of Texas at Austin said the case is the first clearly documented permanent fission in wild chimpanzees, based on nearly three decades of field observations. Reuters reported that the violence began after the split, with coordinated attacks targeting adult males and infants. Researchers documented 24 deaths through 2024, with the toll later rising to 28. Scientists are treating the Ngogo case cautiously. Lead researcher Aaron Sandel warned against loosely calling it a “civil war,” while noting that the violence shows how former group members can become rivals after social bonds break down. The events have also increased attention on Kibale as a major site for primate research, conservation monitoring and wildlife tourism. Researchers are expected to continue tracking the rival groups to understand how the conflict affects chimpanzee behavior, territory and long-term population stability. Continue Reading Full Article MEDICAL RESEARCH Kibale Chimpanzee civil war Puts Uganda at Center of Global Research By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 11, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Researchers are focusing fresh attention on Kibale Forest National Park after an NTV Uganda report highlighted deadly violence within the Ngogo chimpanzee community, one of the largest known wild chimpanzee groups. The conflict has drawn international scientific interest because researchers say the once-cohesive group split into Western and Central factions before years of lethal attacks followed. The University of Texas at Austin said the case is the first clearly documented permanent fission in wild chimpanzees, based on nearly three decades of field observations. ADVERTISEMENT Reuters reported that the violence began after the split, with coordinated attacks targeting adult males and infants. Researchers documented 24 deaths through 2024, with the toll later rising to 28. Scientists are treating the Ngogo case cautiously. Lead researcher Aaron Sandel warned against loosely calling it a “civil war,” while noting that the violence shows how former group members can become rivals after social bonds break down. ADVERTISEMENT The events have also increased attention on Kibale as a major site for primate research, conservation monitoring and wildlife tourism. Researchers are expected to continue tracking the rival groups to understand how the conflict affects chimpanzee behavior, territory and long-term population stability. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY 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 RELATED ARTICLE 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 Uganda Uganda Xtrafrica News Xtrafrica News African Union African Union

Nigerian creator Paramount Komedy says she uses comedy to entertain, educate and inspire positive change online. Paramount Komedy is not creating skits just for laughs. The Nigerian content creator and social media influencer says comedy has become her way of passing serious messages without making people feel overwhelmed. For her, humour is not only entertainment; it is a language people understand quickly. According to Saturday Sun, Sanni Iyabo Munirat, popularly known as Paramount Komedy, said her mission as a digital creator is to use comedy to teach, inspire and encourage positive change. With nearly 400,000 followers on Instagram, Paramount Komedy has built a strong online community around relatable humour. But behind the funny scenes and everyday characters, she says there is always a message. The creator explained that people naturally connect with humour, which makes comedy a powerful tool for discussing real-life issues. In her view, some serious topics become easier to understand when they are presented in a funny and familiar way. That idea has shaped the way she creates content. Before putting out a skit, Paramount Komedy says she thinks about what viewers will take away after laughing. Her goal is not only to make people smile, but also to leave them with something useful they can apply in their own lives. If the audience laughs and still learns a lesson, she believes the content has done its job. Her rise in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital comedy scene came with one major turning point. Paramount Komedy said one of her videos unexpectedly went viral, bringing in thousands of new followers within a short period. That viral moment changed the direction of her career. Brands began reaching out for collaborations, people started recognising her in public, and content creation stopped feeling like just a hobby. For Paramount Komedy, that success also came with responsibility. As her audience grew, she realised many people were paying attention to her voice, her choices and the messages inside her work. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Paramount Komedy Says Her Skits Carry Life Lessons By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jul 4, 2026 Jul 4, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Paramount Komedy is not creating skits just for laughs. The Nigerian content creator and social media influencer says comedy has become her way of passing serious messages without making people feel overwhelmed. For her, humour is not only entertainment; it is a language people understand quickly. According to Saturday Sun, Sanni Iyabo Munirat, popularly known as Paramount Komedy, said her mission as a digital creator is to use comedy to teach, inspire and encourage positive change. ADVERTISEMENT With nearly 400,000 followers on Instagram, Paramount Komedy has built a strong online community around relatable humour. But behind the funny scenes and everyday characters, she says there is always a message. The creator explained that people naturally connect with humour, which makes comedy a powerful tool for discussing real-life issues. In her view, some serious topics become easier to understand when they are presented in a funny and familiar way. That idea has shaped the way she creates content. Before putting out a skit, Paramount Komedy says she thinks about what viewers will take away after laughing. ADVERTISEMENT Her goal is not only to make people smile, but also to leave them with something useful they can apply in their own lives. If the audience laughs and still learns a lesson, she believes the content has done its job. Her rise in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital comedy scene came with one major turning point. Paramount Komedy said one of her videos unexpectedly went viral, bringing in thousands of new followers within a short period. That viral moment changed the direction of her career. Brands began reaching out for collaborations, people started recognising her in public, and content creation stopped feeling like just a hobby. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . For Paramount Komedy, that success also came with responsibility. As her audience grew, she realised many people were paying attention to her voice, her choices and the messages inside her work. Her story reflects the new power of Nigerian skit makers and African digital creators. They are no longer just filling timelines with jokes; many are shaping conversations, building communities and turning social media influence into real cultural impact. Paramount Komedy’s message is simple but important: laughter can entertain, but it can also teach. And in today’s crowded online world, creators who can do both are the ones people remember. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Pat Black reflects on 2025 success and plans 2026 Kenya return, collaborations, and growth in music career. Kenyan-American rapper Pat Black is closing 2025 on a high note, marking a year of industry recognition, growing audiences, and deepening ties to his roots. Pat Black, based in Pennsylvania, highlighted the support from his community and notable cosigns from hip-hop figures such as Bobby Shmurda, Sean Kingston, and Jadakiss. These endorsements affirmed that his music resonates at the highest levels of the industry. Despite rising recognition, Pat Black has maintained his artistic identity. He continues to blend rap, Afrobeat, and R&B, emphasizing elements that resonate with East African listeners. By analyzing streaming data, he has strengthened the cultural connection between Kenya and the U.S. while growing his fanbase organically. Looking ahead, Pat Black plans a significant return to Kenya in 2026. More than a performance tour, he describes it as an artistic and personal homecoming. He aims to reconnect with family, meet fans, collaborate with local artists, and engage directly with Kenya’s creative community. Collaboration will remain central to his 2026 strategy. Pat Black intends to pursue larger, multi-layered projects with Kenyan musicians, aiming to expand his audience and tell fuller narratives reflecting his cross-continental journey. Continue Reading Full Article MUSICS Pat Black Eyes 2026 Breakthrough After Star-Studded Cosigns By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 4, 2025 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kenyan-American rapper Pat Black is closing 2025 on a high note, marking a year of industry recognition, growing audiences, and deepening ties to his roots. Pat Black, based in Pennsylvania, highlighted the support from his community and notable cosigns from hip-hop figures such as Bobby Shmurda, Sean Kingston, and Jadakiss. These endorsements affirmed that his music resonates at the highest levels of the industry. ADVERTISEMENT Despite rising recognition, Pat Black has maintained his artistic identity. He continues to blend rap, Afrobeat, and R&B, emphasizing elements that resonate with East African listeners. By analyzing streaming data, he has strengthened the cultural connection between Kenya and the U.S. while growing his fanbase organically. Looking ahead, Pat Black plans a significant return to Kenya in 2026. More than a performance tour, he describes it as an artistic and personal homecoming. He aims to reconnect with family, meet fans, collaborate with local artists, and engage directly with Kenya’s creative community. ADVERTISEMENT Collaboration will remain central to his 2026 strategy. Pat Black intends to pursue larger, multi-layered projects with Kenyan musicians, aiming to expand his audience and tell fuller narratives reflecting his cross-continental journey. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Biography KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career . Pop Culture Trends Jessie J Says Cancer Risk Remains Despite Early Detection and Surgery . Celebrity Trends jay-z-solange-met-gala-elevator-incident-new-details . Afrobeats Lilian Mbabazi Misses Stage Appearance at Davido’s Kigali Concert . Justice & Crime Tekashi 6ix9ine Given Three-Month Prison Term for Probation Violations . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Biography KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career Meet Ghana’s KiDi: his age, family, breakthrough, awards and 2026 album . Pop Culture Trends Jessie J Says Cancer Risk Remains Despite Early Detection and Surgery Singer reflects on diagnosis, surgery and emotional moment with her mother after cancer news . Celebrity Trends jay-z-solange-met-gala-elevator-incident-new-details Designer Oscar G. Lopez offers new insight into the 2014 elevator confrontation at the Met Gala . Afrobeats Lilian Mbabazi Misses Stage Appearance at Davido’s Kigali Concert Singer left waiting backstage after planned duet with Kitoko was cut during Davido’s BK Arena show . Tags Musics Musics

DR Congo says it is intensifying operations in Mambasa after an ADF attack killed 43 people, burned 44 homes and damaged property. The Democratic Republic of Congo says it is stepping up security operations in Mambasa territory after an ADF attack on the Mambasa-Kisangani axis left 43 people dead, burned 44 houses and caused major material damage, according to authorities on Thursday. The latest assault adds to growing concern over civilian protection in Ituri, where repeated attacks have continued despite years of military pressure on the armed group. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya, citing the spokesperson of the Ituri operational sector, said the attack struck the locality of Bafwakoa and also damaged a truck and five motorcycles. He said the FARDC is reinforcing security measures, restoring order and intensifying targeted operations aimed at dismantling ADF networks in the area. The renewed military response comes after another violent period in Mambasa last month. In late March, It was reported that Congolese forces had retaken Muchacha , a strategic mining site in Ituri that had long been used by ADF fighters and had been linked to earlier massacres of civilians. The latest attack also fits a wider pattern of worsening insecurity in eastern Congo. Another report said that local officials gave a higher provisional toll than the army’s figure and said some people were still missing after the assault, underlining the difficulty of establishing final casualty counts in remote conflict zones. ADF violence has affected communities across Ituri and North Kivu for years, especially in Mambasa, Irumu, Beni and Lubero. The group, which originated in Uganda and later pledged allegiance to Islamic State, has remained one of the deadliest armed movements operating in eastern Continue Reading Full Article ADF REBELS ADF Attack in Ituri Leaves 43 Dead, 44 Homes Burned By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Apr 3, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo says it is stepping up security operations in Mambasa territory after an ADF attack on the Mambasa-Kisangani axis left 43 people dead, burned 44 houses and caused major material damage, according to authorities on Thursday. The latest assault adds to growing concern over civilian protection in Ituri, where repeated attacks have continued despite years of military pressure on the armed group. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya, citing the spokesperson of the Ituri operational sector, said the attack struck the locality of Bafwakoa and also damaged a truck and five motorcycles. He said the FARDC is reinforcing security measures, restoring order and intensifying targeted operations aimed at dismantling ADF networks in the area. ADVERTISEMENT The renewed military response comes after another violent period in Mambasa last month. In late March, It was reported that Congolese forces had retaken Muchacha , a strategic mining site in Ituri that had long been used by ADF fighters and had been linked to earlier massacres of civilians. The latest attack also fits a wider pattern of worsening insecurity in eastern Congo. Another report said that local officials gave a higher provisional toll than the army’s figure and said some people were still missing after the assault, underlining the difficulty of establishing final casualty counts in remote conflict zones. ADVERTISEMENT ADF violence has affected communities across Ituri and North Kivu for years, especially in Mambasa, Irumu, Beni and Lubero. The group, which originated in Uganda and later pledged allegiance to Islamic State, has remained one of the deadliest armed movements operating in eastern ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY 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 . War in Eastern DRC Lubutu Seeks Troop Reinforcements After Deadly Clashes . War in DR Congo Bukavu–Uvira Road Closure Leaves Nearly 1,000 Stranded . Political Parties C64 Delays Complaint Against Tshisekedi . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation DRC opposition coalition announces nationwide protest over constitutional reform dispute . War in Eastern DRC FARDC Says It Is Thwarting M23 Advances Despite Rwandan Drone Support DRC government says army continues to repel AFC/M23 operations in North and South Kivu. . War in Eastern DRC Lubutu Seeks Troop Reinforcements After Deadly Clashes Local authorities say extra forces are needed after FARDC-Mai-Mai fighting killed six. . War in DR Congo Bukavu–Uvira Road Closure Leaves Nearly 1,000 Stranded Stranded travelers face rising costs as RN5 closure disrupts movement . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo Xtrafrica News Xtrafrica News Wazalendo DRC Wazalendo DRC African Union African Union

A new SBM report says Nigeria recorded 7,825 abduction victims and ₦7.78 billion in confirmed ransom payments during a 12-month period. LAGOS, Nigeria — 27 August 2026: Confirmed ransom payments in Nigeria more than tripled to ₦7.78 billion between July 2025 and June 2026, according to a new SBM Intelligence report. The research group recorded at least 7,825 abduction victims across 1,713 kidnap and kidnap-related incidents, showing how mass seizures and insurgent financing are reshaping the country’s security crisis. What does Nigeria’s 2026 kidnapping report show? SBM Intelligence says recorded ransom payments rose from ₦2.56 billion to ₦7.78 billion in one year, while the number of people abducted increased by 66%. The figures are documented estimates drawn from public reporting and interviews, not a complete government count. What the new report found The SBM Intelligence report says 7,825 people were abducted during the 12 months ending in June 2026, up 66% from the previous reporting cycle. It counted 1,713 kidnapping and related incidents and at least 1,142 deaths connected to those events. The report’s most striking finding concerns payment. Total ransom demands fell from ₦48 billion to ₦22.9 billion, but confirmed payments increased from ₦2.56 billion to ₦7.78 billion. SBM calculated that the collection rate rose from 5.35% to 34%. These figures should be read as documented estimates rather than a complete official census. SBM compiled information from media reports, interviews and publicly available records, while families often avoid disclosing payments because of security concerns and Nigeria’s legal restrictions on paying ransom. Reuters reported that Nigeria’s presidency and military did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the findings. A small number of mass abductions drove most payments SBM says a Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad faction of Boko Haram received about 90% of the recorded ransom paid nationally. According to the report, eight incidents attributed to the faction generated ₦7 billion. Two mass abductions accounted for most of that total: the report records a ₦5 billion payment connected to 416 captives taken from Ngoshe in Borno State and ₦2 billion connected to 315 pupils and staff abducted from St Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State. Continue Reading Full Article TERRORISM AND SECURITY Nigeria Kidnapping Ransoms Triple to ₦7.78 Billion By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Aug 27, 2026 Aug 27, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: LAGOS, Nigeria — 27 August 2026: Confirmed ransom payments in Nigeria more than tripled to ₦7.78 billion between July 2025 and June 2026, according to a new SBM Intelligence report. The research group recorded at least 7,825 abduction victims across 1,713 kidnap and kidnap-related incidents, showing how mass seizures and insurgent financing are reshaping the country’s security crisis. What does Nigeria’s 2026 kidnapping report show? SBM Intelligence says recorded ransom payments rose from ₦2.56 billion to ₦7.78 billion in one year, while the number of people abducted increased by 66%. The figures are documented estimates drawn from public reporting and interviews, not a complete government count. What the new report found The SBM Intelligence report says 7,825 people were abducted during the 12 months ending in June 2026, up 66% from the previous reporting cycle. It counted 1,713 kidnapping and related incidents and at least 1,142 deaths connected to those events. The report’s most striking finding concerns payment. Total ransom demands fell from ₦48 billion to ₦22.9 billion, but confirmed payments increased from ₦2.56 billion to ₦7.78 billion. SBM calculated that the collection rate rose from 5.35% to 34%. These figures should be read as documented estimates rather than a complete official census. SBM compiled information from media reports, interviews and publicly available records, while families often avoid disclosing payments because of security concerns and Nigeria’s legal restrictions on paying ransom. Reuters reported that Nigeria’s presidency and military did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the findings. ADVERTISEMENT A small number of mass abductions drove most payments SBM says a Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad faction of Boko Haram received about 90% of the recorded ransom paid nationally. According to the report, eight incidents attributed to the faction generated ₦7 billion. Two mass abductions accounted for most of that total: the report records a ₦5 billion payment connected to 416 captives taken from Ngoshe in Borno State and ₦2 billion connected to 315 pupils and staff abducted from St Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State. The report does not mean that every kidnapping is conducted by the same organisation. Nigeria faces different armed actors, including insurgent groups and criminal gangs commonly described as bandits. Africanews’ account notes that the northwest remains the hardest-hit region by the frequency and scale of mass abductions. Zamfara alone recorded 236 incidents and 1,921 victims, according to SBM. Four out of every five people counted by the report were taken in group abductions. ADVERTISEMENT Why the payment pattern matters The findings suggest that Nigeria’s kidnapping crisis is functioning as both organised crime and a funding channel for armed groups. Ordinary criminal networks demanded ₦13.5 billion but collected about ₦719 million, while the JAS faction collected a much larger share of what it demanded. That imbalance means the national ransom total can shift sharply after a few large incidents. It also explains why schools, villages and groups of travellers remain attractive targets: mass abductions can create far greater leverage than individual seizures. XTRAfrica previously reported how Nigeria’s school-kidnapping crisis was spreading south and how an orphanage raid in Kogi State exposed the vulnerability of children and poorly protected institutions. The report’s warning also lands days after the latest mass abduction in Borgu, Niger State. XTRAfrica’s verified Borgu report explains why published victim totals from that incident still need careful attribution. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY International Justice FBI Sends Tinubu Records to US Judge for Private Review . Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 . Sports Trends Ibrahim Gusau Resigns: What Happens Next at the NFF? . Terrorism and Security Nigeria Kidnapping Ransoms Triple to ₦7.78 Billion . Biography Ayyoub Bouaddi Biography: Age, Parents and Man City Move . Payments do not guarantee victims’ survival SBM recorded at least six incidents in which victims were killed after a ransom had been paid. It also found cases in which people carrying ransom payments were themselves abducted. In 14 incidents, abductors demanded goods such as motorcycles, phones, food and fuel instead of or in addition to cash. That pattern shows how kidnapping networks adapt to communities with limited money while still extracting resources. Daily Times Nigeria highlighted the concentration of payments in one extremist faction, while ThinkBusiness Africa focused on the wider economic damage to households, schools, farms and public trust. SBM argues that disrupting payment networks alone will not end the crisis. Its recommendations combine financial disruption with measures addressing poverty, recruitment and weak security coverage. The next major test will be whether Nigerian authorities respond publicly to the findings and explain how current rescue and financial-intelligence operations will target the networks identified in the report. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE International Justice FBI Sends Tinubu Records to US Judge for Private Review The sealed FOIA filing is not public and makes no new finding against Nigeria’s president. . Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 Tinubu orders 500 more CNG stations, but fare cuts depend on state implementation. . Sports Trends Ibrahim Gusau Resigns: What Happens Next at the NFF? The NFF president confirmed his exit in Abuja, opening a leadership transition. . Terrorism and Security Nigeria Kidnapping Ransoms Triple to ₦7.78 Billion A new SBM Intelligence report says 7,825 people were abducted as mass kidnappings reshaped the crisis. . Tags Nigeria News Nigeria News Nigeria Nigeria Nigerian Army News Nigerian Army News Breaking News Breaking News

Kandi Burruss spent Thanksgiving with family, clarifying estranged husband Todd Tucker joined but wasn't in the photo. Divorce reportedly amicable. In a social media post, Burruss shared a family photo, noting Todd was absent from the picture. She clarified in the comments that Todd had attended the Thanksgiving meal but was not in the photo, writing, "He was not left out or anything like that." Burruss captioned her post, "Happy Thanksgiving. I truly enjoyed my day with my fam. I hope you enjoyed yours! Now I feel stuffed like a turkey & need to lay down." The singer and television personality announced her decision to file for divorce after 15 years of marriage last Friday. She stated that her focus would be on "protecting my peace, being the best mother I can be, and co-parenting with love and respect." According to TMZ, the couple reportedly split a few months ago and maintained an amicable relationship. Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker have two children: a 9-year-old son and a 6-year-old daughter. Continue Reading Full Article Kandi Burruss Shares Peaceful Thanksgiving After Divorce Announcement By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Nov 28, 2025 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: In a social media post, Burruss shared a family photo, noting Todd was absent from the picture. She clarified in the comments that Todd had attended the Thanksgiving meal but was not in the photo, writing, "He was not left out or anything like that." Burruss captioned her post, "Happy Thanksgiving. I truly enjoyed my day with my fam. I hope you enjoyed yours! Now I feel stuffed like a turkey & need to lay down." ADVERTISEMENT The singer and television personality announced her decision to file for divorce after 15 years of marriage last Friday. She stated that her focus would be on "protecting my peace, being the best mother I can be, and co-parenting with love and respect." According to TMZ, the couple reportedly split a few months ago and maintained an amicable relationship. Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker have two children: a 9-year-old son and a 6-year-old daughter. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY African Culture Vyroota Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Rise from Kireka . Entertainment Seputla Sebogodi Dies: Cause of Death and Biography . Investment Deals Burundi-Washington Nickel Deal Signals Great Lakes Strategic Shift . Afrobeats Ekunrawo and Jux Release New Afro-R&B Collaboration ‘Halima’ . Musics Bobi Wine Declined 10% Stake Offer in Uganda’s Galaxy FM . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE African Culture Vyroota Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Rise from Kireka Discover Vyroota’s age, family roots, breakthrough songs, award and journey from Kireka. . Entertainment Seputla Sebogodi Dies: Cause of Death and Biography Veteran Generations actor Seputla Sebogodi died after complications related to diabetes . Investment Deals Burundi-Washington Nickel Deal Signals Great Lakes Strategic Shift Burundi’s Washington nickel agreement sharpens Great Lakes competition over critical minerals. . Afrobeats Ekunrawo and Jux Release New Afro-R&B Collaboration ‘Halima’ Nigerian singer Ekunrawo partners with Tanzanian star Jux on the cross-border single ‘Halima’. . Tags African Entertainment African Entertainment Musics Musics

Uganda’s proposed “Foreign Agents” law could jail journalists for up to 20 years, raising global concerns over press freedom and government control of media. Uganda is moving closer to passing a controversial “foreign agents” law that could expose journalists to prison sentences of up to 20 years, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) . The proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill, introduced in parliament on April 15, includes sweeping provisions that could be used to criminalize reporting on sensitive issues such as the economy, foreign policy, and elections. The legislation also seeks to cap foreign media funding at roughly $100,000 annually and impose strict state oversight on newsrooms. According to CPJ, the bill is framed by authorities as a measure to regulate “agents of foreigners” and prevent what it describes as undue external interference in Uganda’s domestic affairs. Officials argue that foreign funding and digital platforms have contributed to misinformation and social instability. However, press freedom advocates warn that the law could be used as a tool to silence independent media. “Uganda’s Protection of Sovereignty Bill risks unleashing a dangerous legal weapon that authorities can easily turn against the press,” said Muthoki Mumo, CPJ’s Africa Program Coordinator. “If this bill is not stopped, journalists reporting in a manner that does not please President Yoweri Museveni’s administration could be labeled ‘agents of foreigners’ and jailed.” The bill adopts a broad definition of a “foreign agent,” covering individuals or organizations that receive any form of foreign funding or support. This could include independent media outlets that rely on international grants or partnerships. Under the proposed law, such entities would be required to register with the government every two years and disclose detailed operational and financial information. Authorities would also have the power to deny or revoke registration based on vague criteria such as “security threats” or “disruptive activities.” Failure to comply could result in prison sentences of up to 10 years. More critically, CPJ notes that the bill introduces harsh penalties for activities that could encompass routine journalism. Reporting that is interpreted as “damaging the economic system” or promoting foreign policies not endorsed by the government could be classified as “economic sabotage,” carrying sentences of up to 20 years. Journalists could also face similar penalties if their work is deemed to influence public opinion in ways considered to interfere with electoral processes. Continue Reading Full Article JUSTICE & CRIME Ugandan Journalists Face 20 Years Under ‘Foreign Agents’ Bill By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Apr 24, 2026 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Uganda is moving closer to passing a controversial “foreign agents” law that could expose journalists to prison sentences of up to 20 years, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) . The proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill, introduced in parliament on April 15, includes sweeping provisions that could be used to criminalize reporting on sensitive issues such as the economy, foreign policy, and elections. The legislation also seeks to cap foreign media funding at roughly $100,000 annually and impose strict state oversight on newsrooms. According to CPJ, the bill is framed by authorities as a measure to regulate “agents of foreigners” and prevent what it describes as undue external interference in Uganda’s domestic affairs. Officials argue that foreign funding and digital platforms have contributed to misinformation and social instability. However, press freedom advocates warn that the law could be used as a tool to silence independent media. ADVERTISEMENT “Uganda’s Protection of Sovereignty Bill risks unleashing a dangerous legal weapon that authorities can easily turn against the press,” said Muthoki Mumo, CPJ’s Africa Program Coordinator. “If this bill is not stopped, journalists reporting in a manner that does not please President Yoweri Museveni’s administration could be labeled ‘agents of foreigners’ and jailed.” The bill adopts a broad definition of a “foreign agent,” covering individuals or organizations that receive any form of foreign funding or support. This could include independent media outlets that rely on international grants or partnerships. Under the proposed law, such entities would be required to register with the government every two years and disclose detailed operational and financial information. Authorities would also have the power to deny or revoke registration based on vague criteria such as “security threats” or “disruptive activities.” ADVERTISEMENT Failure to comply could result in prison sentences of up to 10 years. More critically, CPJ notes that the bill introduces harsh penalties for activities that could encompass routine journalism. Reporting that is interpreted as “damaging the economic system” or promoting foreign policies not endorsed by the government could be classified as “economic sabotage,” carrying sentences of up to 20 years. Journalists could also face similar penalties if their work is deemed to influence public opinion in ways considered to interfere with electoral processes. The legislation further raises concerns over source protection. Government inspectors would be granted authority to enter media premises and demand information deemed necessary, potentially forcing journalists to reveal confidential sources. Refusal to comply could lead to prison terms of up to seven years. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Biography Who Was King Oyo? Tooro Monarch Dies at 34 . Crime Prevention Uganda Police Confirm Don Chris Arrest in Job Recruitment scam Case . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Biography Who Is Olara Otunnu? . Health News WHO Confirms Uganda’s 2026 Ebola Outbreak Is Over . According to CPJ, such measures come amid a broader trend across Africa, where similar laws have been introduced to regulate civil society and media under the banner of national sovereignty. Zimbabwe passed a comparable law in 2023, while proposals have surfaced in other countries. Uganda itself has a history of press crackdowns, including past newsroom raids and increasing regulatory pressure on independent outlets. While the government maintains that the bill is necessary to protect national stability, critics argue that it risks further narrowing civic space and undermining press freedom in the country. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Biography Who Was King Oyo? Tooro Monarch Dies at 34 The Ugandan king spent nearly his entire life on the throne . Crime Prevention Uganda Police Confirm Don Chris Arrest in Job Recruitment scam Case Christian Asiimwe remains in custody as police investigate overseas recruitment allegations. . 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, . Biography Who Is Olara Otunnu? The Ugandan diplomat’s age, career, UN record, family and 2026 secretary-general bid. . Tags Uganda Uganda Yoweri K. Museveni Yoweri K. Museveni

DRC advances a $1.258 billion plan to modernize the 1,004.5-km Dilolo–Sakania railway, strengthening its connection to the Lobito Corridor. The strategic project would rehabilitate 1,004.5 kilometres of railway connecting the Grand Katanga mining region to Angola’s Atlantic-facing Lobito Corridor. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is advancing a major railway modernization project valued at $1.258 billion, marking another step in the government’s programme to strengthen national transport infrastructure and expand the country’s access to regional and international markets. Angolan President João Lourenço travelled to Kinshasa on Wednesday to join President Félix Tshisekedi at a planned contract-signing ceremony connected to the development of the Lobito Corridor. The visit was officially confirmed by Angola’s Government Information Centre , which said the Angolan leader would witness the signing of a contract related to the strategic trade route. The project covers the rehabilitation and modernization of the Dilolo–Sakania railway, a 1,004.5-kilometre line passing through major economic centres including Kolwezi and Lubumbashi. It connects the Angolan border at Dilolo with Sakania near Zambia, crossing the mineral-rich provinces of Lualaba and Haut-Katanga. According to details reported by Actualite.cd , the proposed collaboration with Mota-Engil Africa covers project financing, rehabilitation of existing infrastructure, railway modernization, commercial operation and maintenance throughout the contractual period. The infrastructure would ultimately be transferred to the Congolese state under the approved framework. A strategic railway for Congolese trade The Dilolo–Sakania line forms the Congolese section of the Lobito Corridor, which links the mining and industrial regions of the DRC and Zambia to the Port of Lobito on Angola’s Atlantic coast. Modernizing the railway is expected to strengthen the movement of minerals and other goods from the Grand Katanga region while giving Congolese exporters another major route to global markets. The project is also designed to reinforce regional logistics, improve the competitiveness of the railway network and support more efficient commercial exchanges between the DRC, Angola and Zambia. The Congolese government previously approved the public-private partnership with Mota-Engil and subsequently adopted the project’s collaboration convention. The approved project documentation reported by Actualite.cd places the estimated investment at $1.258 billion and sets a target of progressively increasing railway capacity to as much as 13.7 million tonnes annually. The project framework also highlights national employment, local participation, technology transfer and increased public revenue among the anticipated economic benefits. Continue Reading Full Article INFRASTRUCTURE DRC Prepares $1.258 Billion Lobito Corridor Railway Contract By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 26, 2026 Aug 26, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The strategic project would rehabilitate 1,004.5 kilometres of railway connecting the Grand Katanga mining region to Angola’s Atlantic-facing Lobito Corridor. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is advancing a major railway modernization project valued at $1.258 billion, marking another step in the government’s programme to strengthen national transport infrastructure and expand the country’s access to regional and international markets. Angolan President João Lourenço travelled to Kinshasa on Wednesday to join President Félix Tshisekedi at a planned contract-signing ceremony connected to the development of the Lobito Corridor. The visit was officially confirmed by Angola’s Government Information Centre , which said the Angolan leader would witness the signing of a contract related to the strategic trade route. The project covers the rehabilitation and modernization of the Dilolo–Sakania railway, a 1,004.5-kilometre line passing through major economic centres including Kolwezi and Lubumbashi. It connects the Angolan border at Dilolo with Sakania near Zambia, crossing the mineral-rich provinces of Lualaba and Haut-Katanga. ADVERTISEMENT According to details reported by Actualite.cd , the proposed collaboration with Mota-Engil Africa covers project financing, rehabilitation of existing infrastructure, railway modernization, commercial operation and maintenance throughout the contractual period. The infrastructure would ultimately be transferred to the Congolese state under the approved framework. A strategic railway for Congolese trade The Dilolo–Sakania line forms the Congolese section of the Lobito Corridor, which links the mining and industrial regions of the DRC and Zambia to the Port of Lobito on Angola’s Atlantic coast. Modernizing the railway is expected to strengthen the movement of minerals and other goods from the Grand Katanga region while giving Congolese exporters another major route to global markets. The project is also designed to reinforce regional logistics, improve the competitiveness of the railway network and support more efficient commercial exchanges between the DRC, Angola and Zambia. ADVERTISEMENT The Congolese government previously approved the public-private partnership with Mota-Engil and subsequently adopted the project’s collaboration convention. The approved project documentation reported by Actualite.cd places the estimated investment at $1.258 billion and sets a target of progressively increasing railway capacity to as much as 13.7 million tonnes annually. The project framework also highlights national employment, local participation, technology transfer and increased public revenue among the anticipated economic benefits. Strengthening DRC–Angola cooperation President Lourenço’s visit underscores the strategic cooperation developing between Kinshasa and Luanda around transport, trade and regional integration. A bilateral meeting between Presidents Tshisekedi and Lourenço was also scheduled alongside the railway ceremony. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects . Infrastructure DRC Opens Lonshi Border Post to Expand Zambia Trade . Infrastructure DRC Moves to Turn Kasumbalesa Into a $600 Million Regional Trade Hub . Infrastructure DRC Prepares $1.258 Billion Lobito Corridor Railway Contract . Healthcare System DRC Launches $9 Million Congo River Ebola Protection Initiative . The Lobito Corridor offers the DRC a direct westward connection to the Atlantic Ocean. The Congolese Presidency has previously described the corridor as an important logistics route capable of reducing transport times and costs while connecting the country’s principal mining regions to overseas markets. The latest development places the Dilolo–Sakania railway closer to the implementation stage and reinforces the government’s wider objective of transforming the DRC’s geographic position and natural-resource base into stronger transport links, trade capacity and economic opportunity. At the time of publication, official announcements confirmed President Lourenço’s journey to witness the planned ceremony, while confirmation that the contract had been formally signed had not yet been released. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects Leaders target shared oil revenue, SONANGOL supplies and electricity for Grand Katanga . Infrastructure DRC Opens Lonshi Border Post to Expand Zambia Trade New facility strengthens migration control, security and formal cross-border commerce . Infrastructure DRC Moves to Turn Kasumbalesa Into a $600 Million Regional Trade Hub DRC advances the $600 million Kasumbalesa Dry Port, a major logistics hub planned to . Infrastructure DRC Prepares $1.258 Billion Lobito Corridor Railway Contract The $1.258 billion project would modernize 1,004.5 km of railway linking Grand Katanga . Tags DRC Infrastructure DRC Infrastructure Angola Angola DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo

Discover DR Congo’s 10 wildest, most impenetrable forests packed with mystery, lush chaos, and zero WiFi. Adventure (and mud) guaranteed. The Democratic Republic of Congo isn’t just big it’s junglicious . Home to the second-largest rainforest on Earth, DRC’s forests are as impenetrable as they are fascinating. If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner explorer (machete not included), here are 10 of the thickest, densest jungles in the DRC that will raise your curiosity and get your adrenaline pumping. From legendary national parks to remote reserves where even GPS might throw up its hands, these are the green labyrinths that top our list. 1. Virunga National Park Virunga isn’t just any forest it’s the OG of African parks. Established in 1925, it’s Africa’s oldest national park and celebrated a century of conservation in 2025 . Nestled in DRC’s far east, Virunga’s dense jungles cloak volcanic slopes and hide an astonishing array of wildlife (around 25% of the world’s mountain gorillas live here , alongside sneaky forest elephants and chimpanzees). The foliage is so thick that the gorillas sometimes appear and vanish like hairy phantoms. It’s a biodiverse treasure chest that feels downright prehistoric the kind of place where you half-expect King Kong to peek out. (In fact, locals around here have plenty of legends , and it only adds to Virunga’s mystique see it on Instagram.) Price: Around $400 (~880,000 CDF) for a gorilla trekking permit in Virunga (a bargain compared to neighboring countries). There’s also a modest park entry fee, but getting to this remote park will likely cost you more in transport. Local tip: Go with official guides/rangers not just for safety (Virunga’s had its dramas) but for their knack at finding wildlife. After a sweaty trek through the vines, celebrate with a cold Primus beer back in Goma while swapping adventure stories with locals and rangers who’ve seen it all. 2. Salonga National Park Deep in the Congo Basin lies Salonga, a roadless expanse so vast it’s like the green ocean of Africa. Spanning a whopping 36,000 km² (roughly the size of Belgium!), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest tropical rainforest park in Africa . Translation: bring a compass, because the canopy goes on forever. Salonga’s swamps and jungles are thicker than cassava paste , home to shy bonobos, rare Congo peafowls, forest elephants, and quirky critters found nowhere else (hello, endemic Salonga monkey!). Continue Reading Full Article TRAVEL GUIDE 10 Wildest, Thickest Forests in DR Congo That Even GPS Can’t Crack By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Nov 19, 2025 May 15, 2026 28 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo isn’t just big it’s junglicious . Home to the second-largest rainforest on Earth, DRC’s forests are as impenetrable as they are fascinating. If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner explorer (machete not included), here are 10 of the thickest, densest jungles in the DRC that will raise your curiosity and get your adrenaline pumping. From legendary national parks to remote reserves where even GPS might throw up its hands, these are the green labyrinths that top our list. 1. Virunga National Park Virunga isn’t just any forest it’s the OG of African parks. Established in 1925, it’s Africa’s oldest national park and celebrated a century of conservation in 2025 . Nestled in DRC’s far east, Virunga’s dense jungles cloak volcanic slopes and hide an astonishing array of wildlife (around 25% of the world’s mountain gorillas live here , alongside sneaky forest elephants and chimpanzees). The foliage is so thick that the gorillas sometimes appear and vanish like hairy phantoms. It’s a biodiverse treasure chest that feels downright prehistoric the kind of place where you half-expect King Kong to peek out. (In fact, locals around here have plenty of legends , and it only adds to Virunga’s mystique see it on Instagram.) Price: Around $400 (~880,000 CDF) for a gorilla trekking permit in Virunga (a bargain compared to neighboring countries). There’s also a modest park entry fee, but getting to this remote park will likely cost you more in transport. Local tip: Go with official guides/rangers not just for safety (Virunga’s had its dramas) but for their knack at finding wildlife. After a sweaty trek through the vines, celebrate with a cold Primus beer back in Goma while swapping adventure stories with locals and rangers who’ve seen it all. 2. Salonga National Park Deep in the Congo Basin lies Salonga, a roadless expanse so vast it’s like the green ocean of Africa. Spanning a whopping 36,000 km² (roughly the size of Belgium!), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest tropical rainforest park in Africa . Translation: bring a compass, because the canopy goes on forever. Salonga’s swamps and jungles are thicker than cassava paste , home to shy bonobos, rare Congo peafowls, forest elephants, and quirky critters found nowhere else (hello, endemic Salonga monkey!). French photographer thomas.nicolon captured this hauntingly serene shot deep in Salonga National Park the largest tropical rainforest in Africa. He spent 17 days on patrol with rangers, navigating its flooded arteries and thick green corridors. “Travelling at the heart of it is an adventure like no other,” he wrote, and honestly, the image says it all. It’s also notoriously impenetrable both in vegetation and logistics. With virtually no roads, intrepid travelers and researchers arrive by boat, chugging up murky rivers where crocodiles and hippos set the welcome committee. If any place can make you feel like a 19th-century explorer, it’s Salonga’s misty, steamy wilds a true heart-of-darkness adventure (Conrad would be proud). Price: No simple entry ticket here there’s no regular tourist infrastructure . You’ll likely need to arrange a special expedition which can start around $1,500 (~3,300,000 CDF) per person for a multi-day guided trek (including permits, guides, pirogue hire, and a lot of patience). Local tip: Plan well in advance with a reputable tour operator or through ICCN (parks authority) if you dream of Salonga. The journey often involves chartering a small plane or a very long boat ride up the Luilaka River. Bring waterproof everything, extra fuel, and brush up on your Lingala phrases you’ll be far from cell signal, relying on local river communities for updates on water levels and trail conditions. 3. Okapi Wildlife Reserve (Ituri Forest) Welcome to the Ituri Forest a place so thick with life that even the unicorns are real . (Well, sort of the okapi, an adorable zebra-giraffe relative , is often nicknamed the “African unicorn.”) The Okapi Wildlife Reserve protects about 14,000 km² of this dense Ituri jungle in northeastern DRC. Its towering trees create a shady green cathedral where elusive okapis nibble leaves in the gloom and Mbuti pygmy hunter-gatherers track duikers by ancient forest lore . Visiting here feels like stepping into a National Geographic documentary you might hear drums from a distant pygmy camp or stumble on a waterfall hidden in the foliage. The forest is practically humming with biodiversity: from colorful butterflies and birds to primates crashing through the canopy. It’s impenetrable alright sunlight struggles to reach the ground, and so will your GPS. But the enchantment of Ituri is worth every sweat bead. Price: $50/day (~110,000 CDF) is the ballpark for hiring local guides and community accommodation in the reserve . Interestingly, there’s currently no formal entry fee the Okapi reserve welcomes researchers and the odd adventurer by arrangement. Local tip: Base yourself at the Epulu Station , the reserve headquarters. There you can see semi-habituated okapi up close (they have a breeding center) and hire knowledgeable Efe or Mbuti trackers for a true forest trek. Respect the local customs: this is pygmy homeland, so a small gift of salt or tobacco can go a long way in friendship when visiting villages. And do pack long socks driver ants here don’t mess around! 4. Kahuzi-Biega National Park Kahuzi-Biega might sound like a hip new dance, but it’s actually a UNESCO-listed jungle paradise in South Kivu. Covering some 6,000 km² of both misty mountains and lowland rainfores t, this park has range : from swampy jungles at 700m elevation to bamboo forests on extinct volcanoes over 3,000m high . Straight from the lush depths of Kahuzi-Biega National Park, this heart-melting hug between ranger Shannon and a lowland gorilla is more than a viral moment it’s a powerful reminder of Congo’s frontline conservation heroes. As shared by @wildography_and_safaris , this bond represents years of trust, care, and community-led protection of endangered great apes. If you needed a reason to care about gorilla conservation this is it. The result? A symphony of ecosystems so dense and diverse that new species are still being catalogued. Kahuzi-Biega is most famous for its eastern lowland gorillas imagine gorilla trekking through tangles of vines, with Grauer’s gorillas (the largest gorilla subspecies) munching quietly just a few feet away. Fewer tourists come here than Virunga, meaning you often have the gorillas all to yourself (no crowds, just you and a 200-kg vegetarian giant eye-to-eye). Beyond gorillas, keep an eye out for troops of Angolan colobus, forest elephants hiding in ravines, and even the odd okapi in the lower sections . The park’s namesakes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biéga, loom over the canopy dormant volcanoes blanketed in green. If you crave intense jungle with a side of volcano, this is your spot see a ranger’s close encounter on Instagram. ADVERTISEMENT Price: $400 (~880,000 CDF) for a lowland gorilla trekking permit (yes, same price as Virunga’s mountain gorillas, and still far cheaper than Rwanda!). General park entry is about $35 for foreigners (≈77,000 CDF), but that’s usually wrapped into tour fees. Local tip: Start your trek from Tshivanga Visitor Center near Bukavu the rangers there know their gorillas by name. After conquering the mud and greenery, treat yourself to fried tilapia and kwembe (local stew) at a Bukavu eatery. Also, bring gardening gloves for the hike seriously. The stinging nettles in that rainforest have no chill , and your hands will thank you when you’re pushing aside prickly undergrowth in pursuit of gorillas. 5. Maiko National Park If ever a forest screamed “uncharted” , it’s Maiko. Tucked in a remote region straddling North Kivu, Orientale, and Maniema provinces, Maiko covers about 10,885 km² of pure, uncut jungle . No roads penetrate its heart in fact, parts of Maiko are so isolated that even Congolese park authorities rarely reach them. This isolation was a double-edged sword: it protected wildlife (Maiko harbors Grauer’s gorillas, okapis, Congo peafowl and more , but it also attracted troublemakers. Burnt ivory, busted traps, and boots on the red dirt this image from @rfe1news85 captures the gritty frontline of Maiko National Park’s anti-poaching battle. Rangers and community enforcers recently torched confiscated contraband in a public show of zero tolerance. It's not just symbolic it's proof that DRC’s most remote jungles are getting real results on the ground, one fire at a time. Notoriously, Simba rebels hid out here after the 1960s rebellion meaning the park has literally never been easy to access or tame. Don’t let that scare you off; think of it as added mystique. The forest itself is a lush tangle of old-growth trees, thick underbrush, and endless rain (bring an ark, just in case). Rangers and researchers who venture in speak of “jungle as far as the eye can see” an emerald world where sightings of okapi tracks or a shy chimp feel like discovering a unicorn. Maiko is the kind of place you visit to earn serious explorer cred (and maybe a few leech bites to show off back home) see a ranger’s rare peek from deep inside on Instagram. Price: There’s no official entry fee (0 CDF) for Maiko the challenge is getting there and staying alive, frankly. Costs will come from securing permits, hiring armed guides, and transport (think: chartering a bush plane or days of overland slog). An expedition can easily run several thousand USD in logistics, even if the park itself isn’t charging a dime. Local tip: Coordinate with ICCN and perhaps piggyback on a scientific or conservation mission if possible safety in numbers is key in Maiko’s territory. Any trip here is hardcore . You’ll need to be self-sufficient: carry satellite communication, first aid, and plenty of supplies. And a pro tip from those who’ve done it: waterproof your gear in double layers; everything will get wet. When the nearest village is days away, a dry pair of socks can feel like luxury. 6. Itombwe Nature Reserve The name Itombwe sends a shiver down the spine of even seasoned conservationists partly out of awe , partly because it’s known as one of DRC’s wildest frontiers. This high-altitude reserve (around 6,000 km² of forested mountains ) lies in South Kivu. It’s basically a giant slice of the Albertine Rift rainforest draped over craggy hills and hidden valleys. Impenetrable? You bet. Some slopes are so steep and overgrown that even gorillas probably get short of breath. Speaking of which, Itombwe is a last stronghold for Grauer’s gorillas and a ton of other endemics from spectacular birds (Regal sunbird, anyone?) to frogs and chameleons found only here. Just 55 brave rangers patrol this vast area, facing off against poachers and armed militias in the depths of the jungle . Translation: this forest doesn’t give up its secrets easily. Adventurous birdwatchers and biologists love Itombwe because new species pop up here and there (even an owl thought extinct was rediscovered). For the truly intrepid traveler, visiting Itombwe is like stepping into a legend where nature reigns supreme and humans are mere guests. (The proof is in the pics conservation groups posted footage of thriving gorilla families in Itombwe’s foggy forests that would melt anyone’s heart see it on Instagram.) Price: No fixed fee to enter Itombwe (it’s not a traditional national park with a gate). However, you must obtain permission from both ICCN and local community authorities. Expect to hire local guides/porters and possibly security; costs can be a few hundred dollars for a multi-day trek, depending on how far you go and how many people you need. ADVERTISEMENT Local tip: Start from the town of Mwenga or Minembwe these are common jumping-off points where you can find community guides who know the area. Be prepared to camp rough : there are no lodges, so it’s tents under the giant tree ferns. Also, Itombwe nights get surprisingly chilly due to elevation. Pack a warm layer nothing like shivering at 2,500m in a rainforest to teach you humility! 7. Lomami National Park One of DRC’s newest national parks, Lomami was established in 2016 the first new park in over 40 years, and boy, did they save a good one for last Encompassing about 8,874 km² of the central Congo Basin, Lomami is a pristine realm of primary rainforest cut through by ribbons of rivers. Think gargantuan trees, swinging vines, and the distant hoot of bonobos echoing at dawn. In fact, Lomami was created because scientists kept finding amazing things there like the discovery of the Lesula monkey, a new species with a human-like stare. This place is biodiversity on steroids . Bonobos (our peaceful, matriarchal great-ape cousins) thrive here alongside okapis, forest elephants, Congo peacocks and more. Part of Lomami’s charm is its inaccessibility; until recently, it was known simply as the TL2 (for Tshuapa-Lomami-Lualaba) landscape a vast blank spot on the map except to local communities. For adventurous visitors, a trip to Lomami is an expedition into one of Earth’s last Edens. You might boat down the Lomami River, dodge hippos, then trek inland following elephant trails to a research camp. Few have ever set foot here, which means maximum bragging rights for you see a peek of its untouched jungles on Instagram. Price: $0 entry officially (no established tourist fees yet), but realistically you’re looking at serious expedition costs . Chartering a small plane from Kinshasa or Kisangani to the park vicinity can be $3,000+ alone. If you coordinate with a conservation NGO or tour outfit, a several-week Lomami trek might run in the thousands of dollars per person (covering guides, gear, and transport). Local tip: Reach out to organizations like Lukuru Foundation (key in establishing the park) for guidance they sometimes assist researchers or eco-tourists in visiting. Aim for the dry season (June–July) when river levels are manageable and trails slightly less swampy. And consider bringing token gifts for villages (salt, soap); deep in the Lomami, goodwill with locals is as important as a good GPS. Plus, you might make friends who’ll show you the secret spots where wildlife abounds 8. Bili-Uere Hunting Reserve Far in DRC’s north, bordering South Sudan and CAR, sprawls the Bili-Uere Reserve one of the largest protected areas you’ve never heard of. Covering ~32,748 km² (bigger than Massachusetts!), this reserve is a mix of dense forest and savanna, dotted with rivers and marshes. Bili-Uere is so out-of-the-way that it’s practically a blank slate on tourist maps which is crazy considering the legends it holds. In the far reaches of Bili-Uélé, where roads vanish into jungle, even a bridge becomes a lifeline. As shared by @africanwildlifefoundation , this newly rebuilt 15-meter crossing isn't just stone and sweat it’s a symbol of resilience. After years of broken paths and risky treks, eco-guards and locals finally have a safer route across, connecting conservation outposts and communities once cut off by collapsed crossings. Here be “Bili apes” , a population of chimpanzees once rumored to be giant, lion-hunting chimps. While the lion-killer lore was exaggerated, researchers did find unusually large chimps that occasionally nest on the ground, stoking the local legend. Besides our primate friends, Bili-Uere harbors forest elephants, leopards, bongos, and maybe even the odd Sudanese species wandering over (giant forest hogs, anyone?). The forest parts of the reserve are thick and untouched so much so that during surveys, scientists kept uncovering new camera-trap surprises as recently as 2025 (ever seen a golden cat stalk through a glade at midnight? They have!). This place is the definition of “wild and free” . Don’t expect signage or trails expect adventure with a capital A. (It’s not on many Instagrams yet, but conservation NGOs like AWF have shared rare glimpses of Bili’s wildlife on Instagram to prove it’s teeming with life.) Price: No entry fee and no tourism infrastructure the jungle itself is free , getting there is the pricey part. Realistically, an expedition will require permits from provincial authorities and hiring local scouts. You might arrange a trip from Bili or Buta towns; costs could include vehicle hire, fuel, food for a small convoy easily a few thousand USD for a weeks-long foray, even though nobody’s charging you to enter the trees. Local tip: Logistics, logistics, logistics. This reserve is huge and undeveloped, so plan a route carefully. The Uele River running through it is navigable in stretches consider a dugout canoe journey to cover ground (and enjoy the rainforest from the water). Also, partner with an NGO or local eco-guard unit if you can; they know the terrain and the safest areas. Finally, brush up on French or even Lingala English speakers are rarer than okapis in these parts. Your ability to haggle for that second-hand Land Cruiser in Niangara might make or break the trip! 9. Sankuru Nature Reserve Sankuru is a colossus of a forest reserve smack in DRC’s central region, and it’s often called the “bonobo peace forest.” Why? Because at ~30,570 km² , Sankuru is the world’s largest continuous protected area for great apes namely the lovable bonobos. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Eco Tourism DRC Begins Major Rebuild of Kinshasa Zoo . Food and Travel 10 Best Shopping Malls in Kinshasa 2026 . Travel Guide Top 10 Family Friendly Spots in Kinshasa . Travel Guide Top 10 Gyms, Trails and Wellness Spots in Kinshasa . Travel Guide 6 ways to navigate public transport in Kinshasa . These gentle primates (our DNA cousins) live in female-led groups and famously “make love, not war” and they have a huge safe home in Sankuru’s jungles. The reserve itself, established in 2007, is a community-managed marvel: local people helped create it, and it’s a model for conservation helping both wildlife and villagers. In the heart of Sankuru, conservationists aren’t just protecting forests they’re dismantling illegal wildlife trade networks piece by piece. This powerful clip from @jackprimatesanctuary features Mr. Héritier MPO, who’s spearheading anti-trafficking efforts to combat the rampant trade in pangolin scales. His message is raw, urgent, and deeply rooted in local resolve: “We are fighting against the pangolin trade here in the DR Congo.” The forest here is classic Congo Basin: towering afzelia trees, a rich understorey, and swamps that never seem to dry. Wildlife surveys show not just thousands of bonobos, but also okapis (surprise they found okapi here outside their known range t ), elephants, and myriad monkeys. For a forest so large, almost no outsiders venture inside it’s truly off the tourist trail. Price: No standard fees for Sankuru it’s not a national park with ticket booths. Any trip will involve community arrangements . You’ll likely need to pay village guides and possibly a community fund or chief’s fee (budget maybe $100+ (~220,000 CDF) for local permissions and guidance for a short stay). Getting to Sankuru (usually via Lodja or Kole towns by bush plane, then motorcycle or boat) will be the big expense. Local tip: Touch base with the Bonobo Conservation Initiative (BCI) or similar groups active in Sankuru. They can help connect you with trackers who know bonobo troop territories. Be ready to trek long distances bonobos move daily and you might play hide-and-seek in the rainforest before you catch a blissful glimpse of them lounging high in a tree. And if a local invites you to taste Liboke (fish steamed in forest leaves) or palm wine , say yes after days of bland rations, Sankuru’s local cuisine is a godsend. 10. Ngiri-Tumba-Maindombe (Congo Swamp Forest) The Ngiri-Tumba-Maindombe wetland dubbed “The Great Swamp” Closing out our list is a forest of a different flavor a swamp forest so vast it’s sometimes called “The Green Abyss.” Ngiri-Tumba-Maindombe is actually a Ramsar-designated wetland complex covering about 65,696 km² in western DRC. Imagine endless marshy forests, networks of dark rivers, and lagoons where the trees themselves seem to float. This is the largest wetland of international importance in the world, and it’s as thick with flora as it is with water. Traveling here means gliding in a dugout canoe under arching mangroves and raffia palms, with monkeys leaping tree to tree above you and kingfishers darting like blue bullets. In the drier patches, swamp forest elephants (yes, a bit smaller and hairier than their savannah cousins) and sitatunga antelope tiptoe through the mud. The region also holds Lake Tumba and Lake Mai-Ndombe, connected by a labyrinth of channels teeming with fish. It’s impenetrable in the literal sense without a boat, good luck. Few adventurers tackle this quagmire, but those who do rave about its otherworldly beauty and the hospitality of riverine communities (who might invite you to try smoked fish or fufu on a banana leaf by the fireside). Bring high boots, bring mosquito repellent by the gallon, and bring your sense of wonder even NASA satellites struggle to see through this swampy green maze, but it’s waiting for you. (Want a glimpse? Check out WWF’s post on how vital these Congo wetlands are the drone shot will blow your mind see it on Instagram.) Price: No formal fee ; the swamp itself won’t charge you, but local chiefs might request a token for granting access to community-managed areas (think on the order of $20 here, $10 there say $30 total (~66,000 CDF) spread across villages). You’ll also be hiring a canoe and crew negotiate a daily rate (perhaps $15-20/day plus food for the boatman). Local tip: The town of Makanza or Mbandaka is a good launching point to find pirogues and guides for the Ngiri-Tumba area. Travel light and waterproof everything (again!). Keep an eye out for the African darter birds drying their wings on snags locals say they’re the swamp’s weather forecasters. If they all take flight suddenly, duck under a tree: rain’s coming hard . Also, when a local fisherman says a channel is “just there,” it could mean 5 hours more of paddling distances are deceiving in the jungle maze, so budget extra time for every journey. Embrace the slow pace and you’ll discover a hidden watery paradise. DRC’s thick forests are not your average walk in the park they’re challenging, yes, but overwhelmingly rewarding for those bold enough. Whether you’re eye-to-eye with a gorilla in a misty clearing or drifting on a flooded forest river listening to unseen creatures, these places remind us the world still has wild, secret corners. Respect the local people who call these forests home, tread lightly (both culturally and ecologically), and you’ll be welcomed into experiences few others on Earth have had. So go forth, intrepid traveler: grab those binoculars, double-knot your boots, and dive into Congo’s green heart. Just don’t forget to tell us your stories when you emerge if you manage to find your way out! ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Eco Tourism DRC Begins Major Rebuild of Kinshasa Zoo ICCN and Vantara launch a two-year plan to rebuild Kinshasa’s long-neglected zoo. . Food and Travel 10 Best Shopping Malls in Kinshasa 2026 Your 2025 guide to Kinshasa’s top malls for shopping, dining, errands and pure AC-powered bliss. . Travel Guide Top 10 Family Friendly Spots in Kinshasa Kinshasa’s best parks, lakes, sanctuaries and fun zones for an easy, kid approved day out in 2025. . Travel Guide Top 10 Gyms, Trails and Wellness Spots in Kinshasa A fast, witty guide to the best gyms, running trails and wellness spots keeping Kinshasa fit in 2025. . Tags Visit Congo Visit Congo Travel Blog Travel Blog DR.Congo DR.Congo DR.Congo Landmarks DR.Congo Landmarks Travel Blog Travel Blog DR Congo National Park DR Congo National Park DR Congo's Tourism DR Congo's Tourism

US supply concerns are sharpening focus on African mineral producers as Washington looks beyond China for critical materials. Africa’s critical minerals sector is drawing fresh attention as concerns grow over US access to rare earths and other defence-linked materials. A new report says Washington may be facing a tight reserve position, adding urgency to efforts to diversify supply away from China . The pressure point is not just mining output, but processing power. China remains the dominant force in rare earth refining and has tightened export controls on several materials, a shift that has deepened Western concern over strategic supply chains. USGS data and recent US policy moves both point to the same problem: the United States is still trying to build stronger buffers against disruptions in critical mineral supply . That is where Africa enters the picture. The Democratic Republic of the Congo remains the world’s leading source of mined cobalt, accounting for roughly three quarters of global output in 2024, while South Africa has highlighted its importance in minerals such as manganese, platinum group metals and vanadium. Botswana, meanwhile, has recently attracted attention after reports of a significant rare earth discovery linked to the Gchwihaba project. Still, the idea that Botswana, South Africa and the DRC are already effectively “on standby” for the United States goes further than the available evidence clearly shows. What is better supported is that Washington is expanding its search for alternative supply routes as it tries to reduce dependence on China, including through reserve-building efforts such as AP’s reported “ Project Vault ” initiative The broader signal is clear: as competition over critical minerals intensifies, African producers are becoming more central to global industrial and security calculations. Countries with cobalt, manganese, platinum group metals and emerging rare earth projects are likely to face rising international interest as supply resilience becomes a bigger geopolitical priority. Data from the US Geological Survey also underscores how concentrated some of these supply chains remain. Continue Reading Full Article BANKING AND FINANCE Why Botswana, South Africa and DRC matter in US rare earth race By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Mar 13, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Africa’s critical minerals sector is drawing fresh attention as concerns grow over US access to rare earths and other defence-linked materials. A new report says Washington may be facing a tight reserve position, adding urgency to efforts to diversify supply away from China . The pressure point is not just mining output, but processing power. China remains the dominant force in rare earth refining and has tightened export controls on several materials, a shift that has deepened Western concern over strategic supply chains. USGS data and recent US policy moves both point to the same problem: the United States is still trying to build stronger buffers against disruptions in critical mineral supply . ADVERTISEMENT That is where Africa enters the picture. The Democratic Republic of the Congo remains the world’s leading source of mined cobalt, accounting for roughly three quarters of global output in 2024, while South Africa has highlighted its importance in minerals such as manganese, platinum group metals and vanadium. Botswana, meanwhile, has recently attracted attention after reports of a significant rare earth discovery linked to the Gchwihaba project. Still, the idea that Botswana, South Africa and the DRC are already effectively “on standby” for the United States goes further than the available evidence clearly shows. What is better supported is that Washington is expanding its search for alternative supply routes as it tries to reduce dependence on China, including through reserve-building efforts such as AP’s reported “ Project Vault ” initiative ADVERTISEMENT The broader signal is clear: as competition over critical minerals intensifies, African producers are becoming more central to global industrial and security calculations. Countries with cobalt, manganese, platinum group metals and emerging rare earth projects are likely to face rising international interest as supply resilience becomes a bigger geopolitical priority. Data from the US Geological Survey also underscores how concentrated some of these supply chains remain. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Justice & Crime Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu Charged With Treason . Jobs and Employment How to Apply for SAPS Jobs Online in 2026 . Tax and Revenue SARS Auto Assessment 2026: How to Check and What to Do . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu Charged With Treason Lawyers confirm formal charges after the opposition leaders were questioned and detained in Lusaka. . Jobs and Employment How to Apply for SAPS Jobs Online in 2026 Use the official SAPS e-Recruitment portal to register, complete your profile, and apply. . Tax and Revenue SARS Auto Assessment 2026: How to Check and What to Do Check if SARS auto-assessed you, review the ITA34, and fix errors before the deadline. . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Tags South Africa South Africa Xtrafrica News Xtrafrica News South Africa News South Africa News South Africa News South Africa News

Taylor Swift awarded more than $197m in bonuses to Eras Tour crew members, a gesture captured in her Disney+ docuseries. Taylor Swift has rewarded members of her Eras Tour crew with more than $197 million in bonuses following the conclusion of the record-breaking global tour. The gesture is featured in the Disney+ docuseries Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour/The End of an Era , which documents the final stages of the 21-month tour. The production spanned 149 shows across 21 countries and reportedly generated about $2 billion in ticket sales, making it the highest-grossing tour in music history. In the series, Swift is shown addressing her crew in a group setting, thanking them for their endurance and commitment throughout the demanding tour schedule. She highlighted the collective effort behind the tour’s success before asking crew members to open messages placed on their vehicles, revealing the bonuses. Swift, who has previously been recognized for compensating tour staff generously, had earlier awarded $100,000 bonuses to her truck drivers during the tour’s early stages. The Eras Tour marked a major milestone in Swift’s career, celebrating her full catalogue while setting new commercial benchmarks for live music. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Taylor Swift Gives $197m Bonuses to Eras Tour Crew By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 13, 2025 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Taylor Swift has rewarded members of her Eras Tour crew with more than $197 million in bonuses following the conclusion of the record-breaking global tour. The gesture is featured in the Disney+ docuseries Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour/The End of an Era , which documents the final stages of the 21-month tour. The production spanned 149 shows across 21 countries and reportedly generated about $2 billion in ticket sales, making it the highest-grossing tour in music history. ADVERTISEMENT In the series, Swift is shown addressing her crew in a group setting, thanking them for their endurance and commitment throughout the demanding tour schedule. She highlighted the collective effort behind the tour’s success before asking crew members to open messages placed on their vehicles, revealing the bonuses. Swift, who has previously been recognized for compensating tour staff generously, had earlier awarded $100,000 bonuses to her truck drivers during the tour’s early stages. ADVERTISEMENT The Eras Tour marked a major milestone in Swift’s career, celebrating her full catalogue while setting new commercial benchmarks for live music. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

The saga of Paul Rusesabagina , famously known for his heroics during the Rwandan Genocide that inspired the film Hotel Rwanda , took a dark turn in recent years as he became a vocal critic of the Rwandan government. Rusesabagina's ordeal began when he was deceived into boarding a flight he believed was bound for a speaking engagement in Burundi. Instead, the flight, secretly orchestrated by the Rwandan government, took him to Kigali, Rwanda, where he was immediately taken into custody. This act sparked international outrage, with human rights organizations, journalists, and policymakers labeling it as a clear case of enforced disappearance and a gross violation of international law. The Lantos Foundation for Human Rights & Justice, among others, has been vocal in condemning the Rwandan government's actions, highlighting the clear evidence of complicity by Rwandan officials in Rusesabagina's abduction. The Foundation even called for Global Magnitsky sanctions against key Rwandan officials, underscoring the severity of human rights violations involved in this case. The international community, including the European Parliament and the US Congress, has condemned Rusesabagina's detention, pointing to the broader pattern of repression by the Rwandan government against critics and dissenters. Such actions have raised grave concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in Rwanda, suggesting a descent into authoritarian rule under President Paul Kagame's leadership. The case of Rusesabagina serves as a chilling reminder of the lengths to which the Rwandan government might go to silence its critics, further exacerbating fears for the safety and fair treatment of other dissenting voices within and outside the country. This incident not only casts a shadow over Rwanda's human rights record but also calls into question the international community's role and response to such blatant disregard for international norms and standards of justice and human dignity Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Feb 24, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: George W Bush awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Paul Rusesabagina at the White House in 2005.(Reuters: Jason Reed) The saga of Paul Rusesabagina , famously known for his heroics during the Rwandan Genocide that inspired the film Hotel Rwanda , took a dark turn in recent years as he became a vocal critic of the Rwandan government. Rusesabagina's ordeal began when he was deceived into boarding a flight he believed was bound for a speaking engagement in Burundi. Instead, the flight, secretly orchestrated by the Rwandan government, took him to Kigali, Rwanda, where he was immediately taken into custody. This act sparked international outrage, with human rights organizations, journalists, and policymakers labeling it as a clear case of enforced disappearance and a gross violation of international law. The Lantos Foundation for Human Rights & Justice, among others, has been vocal in condemning the Rwandan government's actions, highlighting the clear evidence of complicity by Rwandan officials in Rusesabagina's abduction. The Foundation even called for Global Magnitsky sanctions against key Rwandan officials, underscoring the severity of human rights violations involved in this case. ADVERTISEMENT The international community, including the European Parliament and the US Congress, has condemned Rusesabagina's detention, pointing to the broader pattern of repression by the Rwandan government against critics and dissenters. Such actions have raised grave concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in Rwanda, suggesting a descent into authoritarian rule under President Paul Kagame's leadership. The case of Rusesabagina serves as a chilling reminder of the lengths to which the Rwandan government might go to silence its critics, further exacerbating fears for the safety and fair treatment of other dissenting voices within and outside the country. This incident not only casts a shadow over Rwanda's human rights record but also calls into question the international community's role and response to such blatant disregard for international norms and standards of justice and human dignity ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags