Search Results

Published: July 3, 2024 at 2:44:08 PM Modified: July 9, 2024 at 8:26:55 PM The World Bank has approved a $208 million grant for Zambia to address the social and economic impact of the severe drought affecting the southern African nation. The finance ministry announced this development on Tuesday. Southern Africa is currently experiencing its worst drought in years, a situation exacerbated by the naturally occurring El Niño phenomenon and increased average temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions. The drought has severely impacted food production and the livelihoods of millions of people in Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, leading all three countries to declare a state of disaster. The World Bank's grant aims to assist Zambia in mitigating the drought's effects by providing additional temporary cash payments to affected households. According to the finance ministry, the support will reach over 1.6 million households across 84 drought-impacted districts over a 12-month period. In addition to direct financial assistance, the World Bank funding will bolster existing social protection programs, enhancing Zambia's ability to respond effectively to the crisis. This funding follows the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) decision last month to increase its financial support for Zambia from $1.3 billion to $1.7 billion to help the nation manage the drought's impact. ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Iran vs Israel Israel bombs Iran’s nuclear sites in surprise strike, kills IRGC chief Hossein Salami. .

tatata burna boy TaTaTa Burna Boy ft Travis Scott .

At least 70 civilians were killed in an ADF rebel attack on Ntoyo, North Kivu. Survivors call for urgent help as FARDC and UPDF launch search ops. North Kivu: At Least 70 Civilians Killed in ADF Attack on Ntoyo At least 70 civilians were killed in an ADF rebel attack on Ntoyo, North Kivu. Survivors call for urgent help as FARDC and UPDF launch search ops. Published: September 10, 2025 at 1:48:03 PM Modified: September 10, 2025 at 1:48:03 PM Written By | Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda At least 70 civilians were killed according to Radio Okapi during a brutal overnight attack attributed to ADF rebels in the town of Ntoyo, 7 kilometers from Mangurejipa in Lubero territory, North Kivu. According to local officials, the assault happened on Monday, September 8, around 10 p.m., as residents gathered for a wake. The attackers used both knives and guns, killing dozens on the spot. Heavy Toll and Destruction Sector chief Macaire Sovikunula reported a provisional toll of 71 dead, 8 injured, and around 20 people missing. At least 14 houses, vehicles, and motorcycles were also destroyed. Civil society leaders fear the number of victims could rise as more families search for loved ones. Security Response The quick intervention of joint FARDC and UPDF forces from Mangurejipa helped limit further killings, though the assailants managed to retreat into the forest west of Ntoyo. Military and administrative authorities confirmed the attack and said search operations are ongoing. Call for Help Local activists criticized security services for ignoring earlier warnings about rebel movements in the area. The governor’s advisor for humanitarian affairs has urged humanitarian organizations to step in and support the survivors. For now, daily life in Ntoyo is at a standstill. Shops remain closed, families are in mourning, and the community continues to search for the missing. This massacre is one of the deadliest ADF attacks in North Kivu this year, once again exposing the urgent need for stronger protection of civilians in eastern Congo. ADVERTISEMENT DR.Congo DR.Congo Keep Reading Regional Economy DRC offers state mineral assets to US investors under pact Shortlist includes manganese, copper-cobalt and lithium projects . War in Eastern DRC What a “Full Withdrawal” from Uvira Would Really Require DRC Authorities Say M23 Withdrawal from Uvira Not Credible Without Territorial Exit . Government Announcements DRC: Kinshasa Launches Uvira Recovery Plan Kinshasa unveils its recovery plan for Uvira following the partial withdrawal of M23/RDF forces . War in Eastern DRC Why Kinshasa Rejects Claims of an M23 “Withdrawal” from Uvira DRC says claims of M23 withdrawal from Uvira are misleading, warning of disinformation & infiltration .

China announces plans to drop all tariffs on African imports, except from Eswatini, to strengthen trade ties amid U.S. tariff threats. China’s President Xi Jinping speaking during the China-Africa cooperation summit to strengthen trade relations. [Photo Credit: Getty Images / BBC News] China announces plans to drop all tariffs on African imports, except from Eswatini, to strengthen trade ties amid U.S. tariff threats. Published: June 13, 2025 at 9:59:00 AM Modified: June 13, 2025 at 6:09:46 PM In a significant move to strengthen economic ties with Africa, China has announced plans to eliminate tariffs on imports from all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. The announcement was made during a China-Africa cooperation meeting and reinforces China's position as the continent’s primary trading partner, a title it has held for the past 15 years. The zero-tariff initiative , when fully implemented, would expand on a 2023 agreement that removed import duties on goods from 33 African nations classified as “least developed.” The new policy will now include larger economies like Nigeria and South Africa, further deepening trade ties between Beijing and the continent. However, Eswatini, the only African country that maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan, is excluded from the deal. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and does not maintain diplomatic ties with nations that recognize it as independent. In a joint ministerial statement, Chinese and African officials criticized unnamed countries, widely interpreted to mean the United States, for “disrupting the international economic and trade order” through the unilateral imposition of tariffs. The statement urged Washington to resolve trade disputes based on "equality, respect, and mutual benefit." This development comes at a time when the U.S. is reevaluating its own trade policies toward Africa. In April, former President Donald Trump’s administration proposed steep tariffs on African imports, including 50% on Lesotho, 30% on South Africa, and 14% on Nigeria . While implementation of those tariffs has been temporarily paused, they cast uncertainty over the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a long-standing agreement that allows duty-free exports from Africa to the U.S. In 2024, the U.S. imported goods worth $39.5 billion from Africa, some of which came under the AGOA deal. By contrast, Africa exported approximately $170 billion worth of goods to China in 2023, much of it in raw materials such as copper, cobalt, and bauxite, especially from resource-rich countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Guinea. No specific timeline has been given for when China’s zero-tariff policy will take effect, but the move is expected to significantly boost African exports, offering a potentially more stable alternative to the increasingly uncertain trade environment with the U.S. ADVERTISEMENT Africa Africa Eswatini Eswatini China China Keep Reading Regional Economy DRC offers state mineral assets to US investors under pact Shortlist includes manganese, copper-cobalt and lithium projects . Road Accidents Vanderbijlpark crash: Taxi driver held over 12 pupil deaths 22-year-old faces 12 culpable homicide counts after scholar taxi hit truck near N1 . Political Scandals Kaduna police confirm mass abduction after initial denials Police say Kurmin Wali abduction occurred; officials cite 168–172 worshippers taken . 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 .

Soukous Dance to Soukous from Congo. Guitar-rich, fast-paced African music. Stream or download top tracks. Soukous Dance to Soukous from Congo. Guitar-rich, fast-paced African music. Stream or download top tracks.

Discover 10 rare animal and plant species found only in Seychelles from giant tortoises to saucy coconuts all viewable by tourists in 2025. Endemic wildlife of Seychelles: Meet the rare black parrot, paradise flycatcher, and Coco de Mer in one wild island adventure. 10 Unique Seychelles Species: Wildlife You Must See Discover 10 rare animal and plant species found only in Seychelles from giant tortoises to saucy coconuts all viewable by tourists in 2025. Published: October 16, 2025 at 3:01:38 PM Modified: October 19, 2025 at 8:01:42 AM Written By | Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Seychelles may be famed for powdery beaches and gin-clear seas, but this little island nation hides a trove of one-of-a-kind creatures and plants you won’t find anywhere else. In-the-know locals will tell you the real magic happens when you wander off the sunbed and into the wild. From colossal Coco de Mer to birds back from the brink, here are ten endemic Seychelles species that’ll make you grab your binoculars (and give you serious bragging rights). Now, slap on some mosquito repellent, channel your inner Attenborough, and get ready to meet the Seychellois residents who put the “wild” in “wildlife.” Each entry comes with where to spot them, fun anecdotes, and how to enjoy the encounter because this is not your average beach holiday. 1.Seychelles Black Parrot :The “Black” Parrot That’s Actually Brown Moody, mysterious, and only found in Praslin’s palm forests the Seychelles black parrot knows how to keep a low profile and high status. This drab-chic bird is Seychelles’ national icon, found only here. It isn’t truly black but smoky brown, blending into Praslin’s palm forests. Only a few hundred remain , mostly flitting around Praslin’s Vallée de Mai. Despite its low-key looks, this parrot can belt out a surprisingly shrill whistle from the canopy a treat if you’re lucky enough to hear it. Get a glimpse into the incredible Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin, Seychelles. Often described as a "garden of Eden" and a UNESCO World Heritage site, this primeval forest is home to unique flora, including the famous coco de mer palm. The stunning image below, shared by @tour.parrot , Where to see them : Vallée de Mai on Praslin is prime habitat. Go at dawn with a guide, keep quiet, and listen for high-pitched squeals raining down from the palms. With luck you’ll spot one feasting on a wild papaya. It’s a treasure hunt vibe these parrots are elusive divas. But patience pays: snap a pic of a banded bird and you might get to name it in a conservation program. 2: La Digue’s Legendary “Widow” Serving gothic elegance with a hint of drama, this La Digue beauty flaunts a tail longer than your holiday. Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher La Digue’s Legendary “Widow”The male paradise flycatcher is goth-glam with inky-black plumage and a tail longer than its body. No wonder locals call it “veuve” (widow). This bird nearly vanished down to a few dozen on La Digue but now a few hundred exist (mostly on La Digue, plus some on Denis and Curieuse ). Males flaunt streaming tail feathers, females are chestnut-brown, and pairs perform acrobatic mid-air dances. It’s the fanciest aerial show in the archipelago, if you’re lucky enough to catch it. Where to see them: La Digue’s Veuve Reserve is the place. Go at sunrise when these “widow” birds are most vocal you might hear a raspy call or see a flash of that long tail overhead. They swoop low to snatch insects, sometimes whizzing right past your nose. The experience feels like stepping into a 19th-century nature journal, especially if a ranger shares how this “bird of love” escaped extinction. 3.Seychelles Magpie Robin: Comeback Kid of Cousin Island Back from the brink and dressed to impress Cousin Island’s sassiest conservation comeback in monochrome. This dapper black-and-white songbird nearly blinked out by 1965 only 16 were left on one island. Thanks to rescue efforts, 500+ now sing across five islands a true conservation success story. The magpie robin is bold and curious, often following visitors down trails hoping we’ll stir up insects. They warble lively, personalized songs as if greeting you. Basically, they’re the unofficial welcoming committee of Seychelles’ forests cheeky, charming, and back from the brink. Where to see them: Hop a 15-minute boat from Praslin to Cousin Island a predator-free bird haven teeming with magpie robins. On guided walks, they often hop right up to your feet to show off their white wing patches. (One might even tug your shoelaces.) They live on other isles too, but Cousin is the easiest visit. It feels like avian utopia: birds everywhere with zero fear. Don’t be shocked if a robin practically eats from your hand – not bad for a species once nearly gone 4.Aldabra Giant Tortoise: Ancient Island Time Traveler the world’s largest tortoises , unique to Aldabra Ever met a 150-year-old, 250 kg local? On Seychelles’ remote Aldabra Atoll, herds of giant tortoises roam like it’s the Jurassic era. These are the world’s largest tortoises , unique to Aldabra about 100,000 of them live there . Slow, steady, and perpetually munching, they’ve watched centuries come and go. Each has personality: some crane their necks for a scratch, others gaze at you with world-weary eyes. They’re literally living time machines with shells. Where to see them: No need to voyage to far-off Aldabra. Take a short boat from Praslin to Curieuse Island , where hundreds of Aldabra giants wander freely. Picture a beach picnic where giant tortoises lumber over to check you out that’s Curieuse! You can also meet some on Moyenne Island near Mahé or at Victoria’s Botanical Gardens, but seeing them roaming wild on Curieuse is unbeatable. It’s surreal and zen watching these gentle giants at their unhurried pace (and please resist the urge to hitch a ride!). 5.Seychelles Flying Fox (Fruit Bat): Sunset Sky Surfer sunset and watch silhouettes of bats gliding like kites At dusk, look up: those “birds” against the sunset are actually fruit bats heading out to feed. The Seychelles flying fox the islands’ only native mammal has a foxy face and a 1.2 m wingspan . By day they hang in trees like upside-down umbrellas; by night they glide over beaches seeking mangoes and guavas. Locals have a love-hate for these critters: they’re key pollinators but also pesky fruit thieves. (Some still wind up as bat curry , but most people now stick to shooting them with cameras.) Where to see them: Almost anywhere at dusk. Park yourself on a beach (say Beau Vallon on Mahé or Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue) at sunset and watch silhouettes of bats gliding like kites. By day, look up into big trees – you’ll spot them snoozing in clusters. A bat encounter here is oddly serene: warm twilight, silent wings drifting by. And fear not these “flying foxes” want fruit, not blood. 6.Seychelles Kestrel: Pint-Sized Predator with Swagger Seychelles Kestrel Pint-Sized Predator with SwaggerThis pocket-sized falcon (about 20 cm tall) is Seychelles’ only native bird of prey Known as katiti in Creole, the Seychelles kestrel is brimming with attitude. It often skips nest-building and moves into tree holes or building ledges instead. Look for it perched on telegraph poles (or listen for its sharp kee-kee-kee call) as it scans for geckos and skinks to snatch . Unlike other kestrels, it doesn’t hover – it prefers a swift pounce. Small bird, big boss energy. Where to see them : Mahé is kestrel central. Scan the skies around granite cliffs and coconut groves especially in Morne Seychellois National Park for a tiny falcon silhouette. They also hunt above villages (one pair even nested in the airport rafters!). For better luck, have a guide whistle a katiti call during a hike; these curious raptors often swoop in to investigate. It’s thrilling when one glides close a pint-sized predator making a big impression. 7.Coco de Mer: The World’s Sauciest Coconut Coco de Mer The World’s Sauciest CoconutThis is the famous double coconut with the world’s largest seed – a cheeky butt-shaped nut up to 30 kg. Coco de Mer The World’s Sauciest CoconutThis is the famous double coconut with the world’s largest seed – a cheeky butt-shaped nut up to 30  kg . Found only on Praslin and Curieuse , the Coco de Mer palm has inspired plenty of legends. (Victorians even whispered that the palms “mated” on stormy nights!) Its enormous fan fronds form a cathedral-like canopy over primordial forest, making you feel like you’ve wandered into the Garden of Eden. No wonder some believed Seychelles was Eden blame it on this nut’s seductive charm. Where to see it: The ultimate spot is Vallée de Mai on Praslin, a UNESCO-listed reserve where thousands of Coco de Mer palms loom overhead (like a prehistoric movie set). Walk under their giant fan leaves and marvel at the massive nuts on the ground. It’s almost spiritual sunlight filtering through ancient fronds, hushed footsteps on thick leaf litter. Unforgettable. (And don’t even think about smuggling a coco de mer nut home it’s illegal. Stick to photos!) 8.Jellyfish Tree : The Unicorn of Mahé This oddball tree was long thought extinct until a handful were rediscovered on Mahé in the 1970s . Even today, fewer than 100 survive , clinging to a few high ridges. It’s named for seed pods that look like tiny jellyfish . Locals call it bwa mediz . Don’t expect a giant it’s a scraggly little tree with gnarled bark and modest white blooms. But what it lacks in looks it makes up in mystique. Spotting one is like finding a secret level in nature serious bragging rights for any plant nerd. Where to see it: Only on a few steep slopes of Mahé (Morne Seychellois National Park). Realistically, you’ll need a guide who knows the spot. There’s no marked trail to this tree; it’s a treasure you must hunt. The hike is half the fun: scrambling through jungle and over boulders until your guide finally whispers “here it is.” The jellyfish tree itself looks unremarkable, but that moment is pure gold. (If you can’t brave the trek, check the Victoria Botanical Garden they sometimes nurture a seedling or two.) 9.Seychelles Pitcher Plant: Carnivorous Cutie Would you dare get close to this carnivorous beauty? The Seychelles Pitcher Plant ( Nepenthes pervillei ) is a natural wonder of the islands Bet you didn’t expect a carnivorous plant in paradise. Nepenthes pervillei , Seychelles’ endemic pitcher plant , hides on mountaintops of Mahé and Silhouette. It grows on exposed granite ledges under blazing sun surviving by snacking on insects. Its speckled green-red pitchers collect rainwater and digestive juices to trap ants and flies. Hikers often mistake the little cup-shaped plants for odd flowers until they peek inside and see the remains of yesterday’s bugs. A bit gruesome, a lot cool a pint-sized Little Shop of Horrors amid the palms. Where to see it: Hike the Copolia Trail on Mahé. Near the summit, clusters of pitcher plants bask in full sun with their tiny cup mouths agape. Guides will point out these oddities to you. It’s a crazy sight: epic ocean views, granite outcrops, and little green carnivores at your feet. You might even catch one “in action” digesting a bug strangely transfixing (and slightly gross). Just don’t poke your finger in the fluid it’s not exactly coconut water. 10.Wright’s Gardenia: Aride’s Fragrant Secret Wright’s Gardenia Aride’s Fragrant SecretAride Island is the only place on Earth where the critically rare Wright’s gardenia grows . This small tree’s white, purple-flecked flowers are so fragrant their scent carries half a mile out to sea . Sail toward Aride in bloom season and you might smell it before you see it. Once upon a time gardenias grew on larger isles until logging wiped them out. Now about 2,900 trees flourish on tiny Aride a miraculous comeback for one of the world’s rarest (and most aromatic) trees. Where to see it: Aride Island is reachable by guided day trip from Praslin (April–October). It’s worth the voyage. Rangers lead you up gentle slopes to the gardenia groves, and you’ll likely smell that “island perfume” before you see the flowers. If you visit after rains, the trees might be in full bloom the blossoms practically hurl their fragrance at you. Standing on Aride with seabirds swirling and that intoxicating aroma in the air, you’ll understand why this tree is pure island magic. Rare, resilient, and absolutely unforgettable. There you have it ten wild reasons to peel yourself off that sun lounger and explore Seychelles beyond the sand. From meeting century-old tortoises to sniffing elusive blossoms, you’ve earned some epic travel tales to tell. A few tips from your clued-in local friend: go with certified guides for the best spotting chances, respect the wildlife (no petting, picking, or poking even if that Coco de Mer begs for a cheeky squeeze), and pack patience along with your sunscreen. Seychelles may be a tiny dot on the map, but it’s bursting with life found nowhere else. Get out there and make eye contact with a fruit bat, share a moment with a magpie robin, or simply stand in awe under ancient palms. Chances are, you’ll leave the islands not just with a tan, but with a newfound appreciation for the quirky, beautiful creatures that call this paradise home. And trust us that beats any souvenir T-shirt. Happy exploring! ADVERTISEMENT Travel South Africa Travel South Africa Travel Blog Travel Blog Keep Reading Travel Guide 10 Unique Seychelles Species: Wildlife You Must See From butt-shaped coconuts to gothic birds, here’s your wild guide to Seychelles’ rarest residents. . Travel Guide Top 8 most visited islands on Africa’s Indian Ocean coast From Zanzibar to Seychelles: 8 African islands mixing paradise vibes with real culture . Travel Guide Island-Hopping in Seychelles 2025:Mahé,Praslin & La Digue Like a Local From city buzz in Mahé to beach-bum bliss in La Digue here’s how to crack Seychelles in 2025 . Entertainment Bioluminescence Cape Town 2025: Best Beaches, Dates & Viewing Guide Discover Cape Town’s glowing beaches in 2025, best spots, times & tips for visitors. .

Georgia

Published: April 10, 2024 at 5:16:48 AM Modified: April 10, 2024 at 5:16:48 AM In a recent conversation with Cool FM in Lagos, Nigerian artist Oluwafemi Oladapo, popularly known as Slimcase, expressed his enduring admiration for Burna Boy, whom he intriguingly considers an ever-refreshing presence in the music scene. Despite Burna Boy's decade-long tenure, Slimcase finds something perennially novel in his music, likening him to a 'new artist.' The discussion, steered by the host and reality TV star Tacha, had Slimcase sharing his current favorite musicians, placing Burna Boy at the pinnacle of his list. His lineup of favored artists also includes prominent names such as Wizkid, Omah Lay, and Davido, whom he referred to affectionately as "Baddest." This commentary follows a previous ripple in the industry when Davido, another heavyweight in the Nigerian music scene, categorized Burna Boy alongside rising stars like Rema, Asake, Fireboy, and Omah Lay, labeling them as "new cats." This comparison by Davido had sparked conversations and debates within the music community about the evolution and categorization of artists in the dynamic landscape of Nigerian music. ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

A viral video of a young woman in Kigali saying “we are broke, we are cooked” has sparked debate over unemployment, poverty, and Rwanda’s image. Rwanda We Are Broke, We Are Cooked”: Rwanda Youth Viral Video A viral video of a young woman in Kigali saying “we are broke, we are cooked” has sparked debate over unemployment, poverty, and Rwanda’s image. Published: January 21, 2026 at 6:49:55 PM Modified: January 21, 2026 at 6:49:55 PM Written By | Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Kigali A short video clip, recorded by a young Rwandan woman in her home, has exploded across social media platforms. But it's not the visuals that shocked viewers; it's her words. Calm yet piercing, personal yet deeply political, her message is clear: “We, the youth of Rwanda, are broke. We are cooked. Things are really bad.” In just 45 seconds, she strips away the façade of Rwanda’s celebrated “success story,” revealing a generation suffocating beneath rising poverty, youth unemployment, and economic inequality. Her testimony, raw, viral, and now polarizing, has ignited a national conversation about what lies beneath Kigali’s skyscrapers, drone showcases, and tech hub branding. Behind the polished image, many youth say reality doesn’t match the propaganda. A Generation in Crisis “I look good, right?” she says in the video. “But if you check my account, there’s only 300 Rwandan Francs, that’s 2 U.S. cents.” Her voice cracks between frustration and resignation. “We are not okay.” Her words resonated deeply, especially among Rwanda’s unemployed and underemployed youth, many of whom took to TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) to share similar stories. But they also sparked backlash from government-linked figures who accused her of being part of “opposition propaganda,” labeling her among the so-called “Ibigarasha”, a term President Paul Kagame himself once used to dismiss dissenters. Culture of Silence and Fear In Rwanda, open criticism of the government is rare — and often dangerous. The young woman’s video broke an unwritten rule: Don’t speak out. Don’t question the system. Appear content. The reaction was swift. Government supporters accused her of tarnishing the country’s image. Others questioned her patriotism. A known pro-government account even claimed she was mentally unstable, a common tactic used to discredit dissent. But civil society voices have pushed back, urging leaders to focus on fixing the problem, not attacking the messenger. “This youth isn’t the enemy,” one tweet read. “The economy is.” Mental Toll and Censorship Reports now suggest the young woman has suffered mental health consequences due to online harassment and government intimidation. Her viral fame, meant to be a wake-up call, has become a warning sign of how far Rwanda’s tolerance for criticism has collapsed. What Happened to “Vision 2050”? Under Kagame’s FPR government, Rwanda pledged to create 200,000 jobs annually, as part of the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2). While state media boasts of “progress,” the testimonies from youth, like this one, suggest a growing disconnect between policy claims and lived reality. Unemployment. Food inflation. Rising rents. Stagnant wages. Kigali’s tech-powered utopia isn’t lifting all boats, especially not the youth. What This Moment Reveals This viral moment isn’t just about one girl’s bank balance; it’s a crack in the image. For too long, Rwanda’s narrative has been built on external validation, donor-friendly metrics, and authoritarian discipline disguised as “stability.” But the youth are speaking now. And they’re speaking in Rwandan, online, and with urgency. Final Thought Rwanda doesn’t need more image management. It needs economic justice for the youth, the unemployed, and those silenced by fear If leaders can’t listen to a 20-year-old woman with 300 francs, who will they listen to? ADVERTISEMENT Trending News Trending News Rwanda Rwanda Keep Reading Economic Policies We Are Broke, We Are Cooked”: Rwanda Youth Viral Video “We Are Broke, We Are Cooked”: Rwanda Youth Viral Video Exposes Economic Desperation in Kigali . Entertainment Buzz Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors Granted Guinean Citizenship Hollywood stars receive Guinean nationality after DNA tests traced their African ancestry. . Elections Why Uganda's election results are being contested Why Uganda’s Election Results Are Being Contested After Museveni’s Re-Election . Opposition Politics Burkina Faso says it foiled assassination plot against Traoré Security minister says intelligence services stopped a late-night plot targeting the junta leader .

Actors Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors receive Guinean citizenship after DNA tests, joining Africa’s growing diaspora return movement. Entertainment Credit : Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/Shutterstock Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors Granted Guinean Citizenship Actors Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors receive Guinean citizenship after DNA tests, joining Africa’s growing diaspora return movement. Published: January 12, 2026 at 3:05:08 PM Modified: January 12, 2026 at 6:41:21 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Conakry — Hollywood actors Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors have been granted citizenship of Guinea, following DNA tests that traced their ancestral roots to the West African nation, Guinean authorities have confirmed, according to the report by BBC News The couple travelled to Guinea this week, where they were formally welcomed and presented with passports during an official ceremony organised by the country’s Ministry of Culture and Identity. The event took place at the Gbassi Kolo cultural centre on Friday and forms part of broader regional efforts to reconnect members of the African diaspora with the continent. Jonathan Majors, known for his roles in Creed and Ant-Man, described the decision to acquire Guinean citizenship as both personal and symbolic, saying it represents a way to align their professional lives with their African heritage and strengthen ties between Africa and its global diaspora. Meagan Good, best known for films such as Think Like a Man, expressed gratitude to Guinean authorities and said the visit marked her first time in the country. “There is nothing more we wish to say than thank you,” she said. Official Reception in Conakry The actors arrived at Conakry’s Gbessia International Airport on Friday morning, where they were greeted by government officials, traditional music, and cultural performers. During their stay, the couple are also expected to visit Boké, a coastal region historically associated with transatlantic slavery, where captives were once held before being transported overseas. Guinea’s Minister of State and Secretary-General of the Presidency, Djiba Diakité, presented the citizenship documents on behalf of President Mamadi Doumbouya, telling the actors they were now considered ambassadors of Guinean identity on the global stage. “We hope you will be among the sons and daughters who proudly represent Guinea and our flag around the world,” he said. Long-Term Ties Under Consideration Asked about their future plans, the couple told the BBC in an email exchange that they could envision establishing a home in Guinea and spending extended periods in the country. “This is not a short-term connection,” they said. “It’s something we see growing and lasting.” It remains unclear whether Good and Majors plan to make significant investments in Guinea or permanently relocate. Part of a Wider Diaspora Movement Their citizenship ceremony reflects a broader continental trend aimed at encouraging people of African descent to reconnect with their ancestral homelands. Similar initiatives gained prominence in 2019 when Ghana launched the ‘Year of Return’, inviting members of the African diaspora to visit, invest, and resettle. Among those who later responded to the call was American musician Stevie Wonder in 2024. Other high-profile figures have also acquired African citizenship in recent years, including singer Ciara, who became a citizen of Benin, and Hollywood actor Samuel L. Jackson, who received Gabonese nationality in 2020. Guinea’s Historical Role Guinea has a long history of welcoming African-descended activists and cultural figures. In the 1960s, South African singer Miriam Makeba and her husband, US civil rights activist Stokely Carmichael (later known as Kwame Ture), settled in Guinea after facing political persecution abroad. Makeba was stripped of her South African citizenship for opposing apartheid, while Carmichael lost his US visa due to his activism. Makeba later became a Guinean honorary citizen and cultural ambassador, while Carmichael remained in the country until his death in 1998. Political Context In recent years, Guinea has experienced political turbulence. The country has been under military-led rule since a coup in 2021, with authorities imposing restrictions on media and public demonstrations. A civilian government was installed following elections held last month, which were won by President Doumbouya with 87% of the vote. Despite political tensions, Guinea has maintained close relations with Western partners, particularly France. The country is rich in natural resources, including bauxite, gold, iron ore, diamonds, and uranium, yet a large portion of its population continues to live in poverty, making diaspora engagement and foreign investment a key focus of national policy. Source of this article: BBC News ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment Trending News Trending News Guinea Guinea Keep Reading 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 Kojo Mula tips Medikal for TGMA Artiste of the Year Entertainment pundit cites performances and 2025 successes as reasons for Medikal’s strong TGMA case . 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 . Entertainment Nollywood Actress Sarah Martins Collapses, Hospitalised Actress says extreme exhaustion led to collapse after weeks of nonstop work .

Published: March 7, 2024 at 7:53:09 AM Modified: March 12, 2024 at 3:04:44 PM Aliko Dangote's Visionary Leap into Global Oil Trading In a groundbreaking move, Africa's wealthiest individual, Aliko Dangote, is reportedly setting the stage for a novel oil trading division, potentially based in London, to support his forthcoming refinery project in Nigeria, according to individuals familiar with the matter. This strategic initiative is set to challenge the conventional interactions with leading global traders who have been involved in lengthy negotiations, offering financial and crude oil support to Dangote's refinery in exchange for access to its products. The anticipation is growing among traders as Dangote's massive 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery is expected to significantly impact the global oil and fuel markets. Sources indicate that Dangote is inclined towards a more autonomous approach, with plans to appoint Radha Mohan, a former Essar trading expert, to lead this new venture, as his recent role as director of international supply and trading at Dangote Group since 2021 suggests. The team is actively seeking to expand by recruiting skilled traders. Despite the refinery's construction phase, which lasted nearly a decade and exceeded the budget by $6 billion, totaling $20 billion, the facility has started operations, processing about 8 million barrels in its first two months. However, reaching its full operational capacity is expected to take additional time. To facilitate the refinery's crude oil acquisition, it's reported that Vitol has made upfront payments for certain product shipments, while Trafigura has engaged in crude oil swaps for future fuel cargoes. Both Vitol and Trafigura, based in Geneva, have remained silent on the matter. ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading