The Super Eagles will wear for the first time their newly designed home kits by Nike against Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Friday. It will be an all-white design with trimmings of green. Finidi George’s side will also wear for the first time the away strips of green with touch of black in the matchday four encounter against the Squirrels of Benin Republic in Abidjan next week Monday. The Super Eagles will look to secure their first win in the qualifiers when they take on Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 4, 2024 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Super Eagles will wear for the first time their newly designed home kits by Nike against Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Friday. It will be an all-white design with trimmings of green. Finidi George’s side will also wear for the first time the away strips of green with touch of black in the matchday four encounter against the Squirrels of Benin Republic in Abidjan next week Monday. ADVERTISEMENT The Super Eagles will look to secure their first win in the qualifiers when they take on Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. 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

The rescue of a stranded US airman in Iran highlights rising battlefield risk and a broader regional security threat. The report on the rescue of a stranded US airman in Iran points to more than a dramatic battlefield extraction. It also shows how the US-Iran confrontation is shifting into a more dangerous phase, with direct exposure for American personnel deep inside hostile territory. According to the account, the airman was left isolated in mountainous terrain after an F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down on Friday, April 3, 2026. While one crew member was recovered quickly, the second remained hidden for nearly two days before US special forces carried out the rescue. The operation, described in both the BBC account provided and reporting from The Guardian , unfolded as Iranian forces and civilians were also searching for the missing officer. What gives the episode wider significance is the way it expands the meaning of the conflict. This was no longer only a contest of long-range strikes and air superiority. It became a live rescue mission inside Iranian territory, requiring deception, surveillance, and a heavy military package to prevent capture. It was reported that the operation relied on dozens of aircraft and elaborate subterfuge, underscoring the scale of the risk involved. AP’s account reinforces that the mission quickly became a test of US reach and coordination under pressure. The incident also sharpens questions about regional stability. A US aircraft being shot down over Iran, followed by a rescue under threat, marks a serious escalation in operational danger even if Washington succeeds tactically. It shows that Iran still retains the ability to impose costs, while the US remains willing to commit major assets to recover personnel and sustain pressure. For the wider region, the rescue is a reminder that the conflict now carries greater cross-border and strategic risk. Every such operation increases the chance of further military losses, miscalculation, and a broader spillover that could pull in more actors or widen the theatre beyond current battle lines. Source: The Guardia n Continue Reading Full Article INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS US-Iran conflict enters new phase of direct ground risk By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Apr 7, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The report on the rescue of a stranded US airman in Iran points to more than a dramatic battlefield extraction. It also shows how the US-Iran confrontation is shifting into a more dangerous phase, with direct exposure for American personnel deep inside hostile territory. According to the account, the airman was left isolated in mountainous terrain after an F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down on Friday, April 3, 2026. While one crew member was recovered quickly, the second remained hidden for nearly two days before US special forces carried out the rescue. The operation, described in both the BBC account provided and reporting from The Guardian , unfolded as Iranian forces and civilians were also searching for the missing officer. What gives the episode wider significance is the way it expands the meaning of the conflict. This was no longer only a contest of long-range strikes and air superiority. It became a live rescue mission inside Iranian territory, requiring deception, surveillance, and a heavy military package to prevent capture. It was reported that the operation relied on dozens of aircraft and elaborate subterfuge, underscoring the scale of the risk involved. AP’s account reinforces that the mission quickly became a test of US reach and coordination under pressure. ADVERTISEMENT The incident also sharpens questions about regional stability. A US aircraft being shot down over Iran, followed by a rescue under threat, marks a serious escalation in operational danger even if Washington succeeds tactically. It shows that Iran still retains the ability to impose costs, while the US remains willing to commit major assets to recover personnel and sustain pressure. For the wider region, the rescue is a reminder that the conflict now carries greater cross-border and strategic risk. Every such operation increases the chance of further military losses, miscalculation, and a broader spillover that could pull in more actors or widen the theatre beyond current battle lines. ADVERTISEMENT Source: The Guardia n 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 Iran’s IRGC Pushes Staged Talks as War Shifts Power . International Relations US-Iran conflict enters new phase of direct ground risk . International Relations Iran Names Khamenei’s Son as New Leader; Trump Threatens to End Him . . . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Iran’s IRGC Pushes Staged Talks as War Shifts Power Tehran’s wartime command structure complicates U.S. talks over Hormuz and the nuclear file . International Relations US-Iran conflict enters new phase of direct ground risk A US rescue deep inside Iran underscored how the conflict is widening beyond air strikes. . International Relations Iran Names Khamenei’s Son as New Leader; Trump Threatens to End Him Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment adds a new strategic layer to a widening regional war. . Egypt Feels the Economic Shockwaves of Iran–Israel Missile Conflict More Than Any Other African Nation . Tags Israel Israel Iran Iran Xtrafrica News Xtrafrica News African Union African Union US Trump Iran US Trump Iran Iran vs Israel Iran vs Israel

South Africa faces regional pressure as xenophobia claims, protests and migrant safety concerns draw diplomatic attention. South Africa ’s migration debate is drawing wider regional scrutiny after an EWN report quoted political economist Dr Dale McKinley as saying claims that foreign nationals are “stealing jobs” are not supported by data and are being amplified for political purposes. McKinley told CapeTalk that misinformation, social media campaigns and political rhetoric have helped turn migration into a blame point for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services. The debate comes as Daily Maverick reported that Nigeria, Ghana and Mozambique have raised concerns with Pretoria over the treatment of their citizens. The issue has also drawn wider attention after the report that 130 Nigerians sought voluntary repatriation following renewed anti-immigration protests in South Africa. McKinley argued that migrant communities are often used as political scapegoats, especially before elections, while the economic role of foreign nationals is frequently ignored or distorted. South African authorities have condemned xenophobic violence, but the diplomatic pressure shows the issue is no longer only a domestic political dispute. It now sits within a broader regional conversation about migrant safety, African solidarity and state responsibility. Continue Reading Full Article JUSTICE & CRIME Xenophobia Tensions Put South Africa Under Regional Scrutiny By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment May 6, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: South Africa ’s migration debate is drawing wider regional scrutiny after an EWN report quoted political economist Dr Dale McKinley as saying claims that foreign nationals are “stealing jobs” are not supported by data and are being amplified for political purposes. McKinley told CapeTalk that misinformation, social media campaigns and political rhetoric have helped turn migration into a blame point for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services. The debate comes as Daily Maverick reported that Nigeria, Ghana and Mozambique have raised concerns with Pretoria over the treatment of their citizens. ADVERTISEMENT The issue has also drawn wider attention after the report that 130 Nigerians sought voluntary repatriation following renewed anti-immigration protests in South Africa. McKinley argued that migrant communities are often used as political scapegoats, especially before elections, while the economic role of foreign nationals is frequently ignored or distorted. ADVERTISEMENT South African authorities have condemned xenophobic violence, but the diplomatic pressure shows the issue is no longer only a domestic political dispute. It now sits within a broader regional conversation about migrant safety, African solidarity and state responsibility. 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 South Africa South Africa Xtrafrica News Xtrafrica News South Africa News South Africa News African Union African Union

KiDi says he has left Lynx Entertainment and is now working as an independent artist. Ghanaian highlife and Afrobeats singer KiDi has announced that he is no longer signed to Lynx Entertainment, bringing an end to his long-standing relationship with the record label that helped launch his mainstream career. The musician made the revelation during a TikTok Live session with content creator Code Micky while responding to questions about his current affiliation with the label. “No, I am no longer with Lyn x,” KiDi said during the live discussion. KiDi explained that he is now operating as an independent artist, marking a new chapter in his music career. According to the singer, plans surrounding his departure began around the release of “Gymnastic,” his collaboration with Olivetheboy and Kojo Blak . The singer joined Lynx Entertainment in 2016 after emerging winner of the 2015 MTN Hitmaker competition. Under the label, he released several successful songs including Say You Love Me , Enjoyment , and the internationally recognised hit Touch It . KiDi also released projects such as Sugar and The Golden Boy , which contributed to his rise as one of Ghana’s leading Afrobeats and highlife artists. His work earned him multiple awards and expanded his audience beyond Ghana. Despite leaving Lynx Entertainment, the artist remains active in the music industry. His recent single, Signature featuring Lasmid, continues to receive significant attention across radio stations and streaming platforms. Known for his melodic sound and crossover appeal, KiDi has built a strong international fan base through collaborations and consistent contributions to the growth of Afrobeats globally. Source : Grace Quaye Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT KiDi Confirms Exit From Lynx Entertainment By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment May 7, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ghanaian highlife and Afrobeats singer KiDi has announced that he is no longer signed to Lynx Entertainment, bringing an end to his long-standing relationship with the record label that helped launch his mainstream career. The musician made the revelation during a TikTok Live session with content creator Code Micky while responding to questions about his current affiliation with the label. “No, I am no longer with Lyn x,” KiDi said during the live discussion. ADVERTISEMENT KiDi explained that he is now operating as an independent artist, marking a new chapter in his music career. According to the singer, plans surrounding his departure began around the release of “Gymnastic,” his collaboration with Olivetheboy and Kojo Blak . The singer joined Lynx Entertainment in 2016 after emerging winner of the 2015 MTN Hitmaker competition. Under the label, he released several successful songs including Say You Love Me , Enjoyment , and the internationally recognised hit Touch It . KiDi also released projects such as Sugar and The Golden Boy , which contributed to his rise as one of Ghana’s leading Afrobeats and highlife artists. His work earned him multiple awards and expanded his audience beyond Ghana. ADVERTISEMENT Despite leaving Lynx Entertainment, the artist remains active in the music industry. His recent single, Signature featuring Lasmid, continues to receive significant attention across radio stations and streaming platforms. Known for his melodic sound and crossover appeal, KiDi has built a strong international fan base through collaborations and consistent contributions to the growth of Afrobeats globally. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . Source : Grace Quaye 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 Ghanian Musics Ghanian Musics Ghana Ghana

Nollywood actress Omeche Oko is receiving treatment after a motorbike accident on a Lagos movie set. A movie scene turned frightening for Nollywood actress Omeche Oko after a motorbike accident left her hospitalised just days before her birthday. According to the source article , Oko was filming on a movie location in Lagos with fellow actor Victory Michael when the bike they were using crashed into a pole during production. The actress later shared a video of the incident on her Instagram page on Wednesday, giving fans a closer look at the dangerous moment. In the clip, Victory Michael was riding the bike while Oko sat behind him before the crash happened. The accident left Victory Michael briefly unconscious after hitting his chest against the pole. Oko suffered a broken leg and was quickly taken to an undisclosed medical facility alongside her colleague. Crew members and colleagues at the location rushed to help both actors after the crash. The moment has since sparked fresh conversations about the risks actors face while shooting action scenes in Nollywood. In her Instagram caption, Oko said the experience reminded her how fragile life can be. She thanked God for surviving and asked people to show more love to actors, noting that many performers take serious risks for their craft. Several Nollywood figures later filled her comment section with prayers and support. Among them were Mofe Duncan, Chinenye Nnebe, Alichi Chizzy Mbah, Nkechi Blessing Sunday, Nosa Rex, Chidi Dike, Toniala Aladese, Doris Ifeka, Onyi Alex, as well as producers Uche Nancy and Toyosi Etim Effiong. Oko’s accident is another reminder that behind the glamour of Nollywood are long hours, physical scenes and real dangers. For fans, the hope now is simple: a full recovery for Omeche Oko and Victory Michael. NOLLYWOOD UPDATES Omeche Oko Hospitalised After Accident on Lagos Movie Set By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jun 26, 2026 Jun 26, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A movie scene turned frightening for Nollywood actress Omeche Oko after a motorbike accident left her hospitalised just days before her birthday. According to the source article , Oko was filming on a movie location in Lagos with fellow actor Victory Michael when the bike they were using crashed into a pole during production. ADVERTISEMENT The actress later shared a video of the incident on her Instagram page on Wednesday, giving fans a closer look at the dangerous moment. In the clip, Victory Michael was riding the bike while Oko sat behind him before the crash happened. The accident left Victory Michael briefly unconscious after hitting his chest against the pole. Oko suffered a broken leg and was quickly taken to an undisclosed medical facility alongside her colleague. ADVERTISEMENT Crew members and colleagues at the location rushed to help both actors after the crash. The moment has since sparked fresh conversations about the risks actors face while shooting action scenes in Nollywood. In her Instagram caption, Oko said the experience reminded her how fragile life can be. She thanked God for surviving and asked people to show more love to actors, noting that many performers take serious risks for their craft. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW 2Baba Urges Focus on National Issues, Not His Marriage . Entertainment Bigiano claims he wrote hook for Davido’s ‘Dami Duro’ . Entertainment Tiwa Savage Joins Nigeria’s 800M Spotify Streams Club . Entertainment Adekunle Gold Sets Lagos Homecoming With 55-Piece Orchestra . Entertainment 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 . Several Nollywood figures later filled her comment section with prayers and support. Among them were Mofe Duncan, Chinenye Nnebe, Alichi Chizzy Mbah, Nkechi Blessing Sunday, Nosa Rex, Chidi Dike, Toniala Aladese, Doris Ifeka, Onyi Alex, as well as producers Uche Nancy and Toyosi Etim Effiong. Oko’s accident is another reminder that behind the glamour of Nollywood are long hours, physical scenes and real dangers. For fans, the hope now is simple: a full recovery for Omeche Oko and Victory Michael. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Sola Allyson Explains Her Transition From Islam to Christianity Singer cites childhood experiences, family shifts and spiritual discovery in her faith journey. . Entertainment Champz Becomes Youngest African Artist to Hit 1M Spotify Listeners Fourteen-year-old Champz sets new streaming milestone weeks after releasing his debut EP. . Fashion Dr Teal’s Marks Year-End With Wellness-Themed Nigerian Owambe Event Brand hosts cultural wellness celebration in Lagos with performances, spa sessions and celebrity guests . Nollywood Updates Tonto Dikeh recounts recovery from smoking, addiction struggles Actress shares testimony at Streams of Joy church on quitting smoking, alcohol and anger . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Congolese forces repel an attack by RDF/M23-AFC fighters in South Kivu’s Uvira highlands, military authorities confirm. UVIRA, South Kivu — The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have repelled an attack by the Rwandan army and its allied M23/AFC armed groups in the highlands of Uvira territory, South Kivu province, military authorities said on Sunday. According to the spokesperson for the 33rd Military Region, the assault targeted positions held by Congolese forces near Nyambunguma village, on the high plateaus bordering Fizi territory, and aimed to advance toward strategic areas in the region. Captain Sylvain Bijanu, speaking on behalf of the FARDC, said Congolese troops had anticipated the attack after detecting suspicious movements and reinforcement of enemy positions in recent days. “The FARDC deployed in the Uvira highlands, precisely at Point Zéro in Nyambunguma village, were attacked by the coalition of the Rwandan army and M23-AFC-Twigwaneho,” Captain Bijanu said. “Thanks to accurate military intelligence gathered in advance, our forces had prepared several defensive ambushes.” He added that the attackers had intended to surprise Congolese positions but were met with a rapid and coordinated response. “The enemy believed they would catch our forces off guard. Instead, they were confronted by alert and reinforced loyalist units, which quickly launched a counter-offensive and inflicted heavy losses on the assailants,” he said. Heavy Losses Reported Among Attackers The FARDC spokesperson noted that several bodies were left behind on the battlefield, underlining the intensity of the fighting. While no official casualty figures were released, the army described the engagement as a significant tactical setback for the attacking forces. The confrontation follows days of unusual enemy movements and troop build-ups, observed since Friday in areas south of Uvira town and around Nyambunguma, according to military sources. FARDC Reaffirms Territorial Defense Continue Reading Full Article WAR IN DR CONGO FARDC Repels RDF/M23-AFC Attack in South Kivu Highlands By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jan 13, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: UVIRA, South Kivu — The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have repelled an attack by the Rwandan army and its allied M23/AFC armed groups in the highlands of Uvira territory, South Kivu province, military authorities said on Sunday. According to the spokesperson for the 33rd Military Region, the assault targeted positions held by Congolese forces near Nyambunguma village, on the high plateaus bordering Fizi territory, and aimed to advance toward strategic areas in the region. Captain Sylvain Bijanu, speaking on behalf of the FARDC, said Congolese troops had anticipated the attack after detecting suspicious movements and reinforcement of enemy positions in recent days. ADVERTISEMENT “The FARDC deployed in the Uvira highlands, precisely at Point Zéro in Nyambunguma village, were attacked by the coalition of the Rwandan army and M23-AFC-Twigwaneho,” Captain Bijanu said. “Thanks to accurate military intelligence gathered in advance, our forces had prepared several defensive ambushes.” He added that the attackers had intended to surprise Congolese positions but were met with a rapid and coordinated response. “The enemy believed they would catch our forces off guard. Instead, they were confronted by alert and reinforced loyalist units, which quickly launched a counter-offensive and inflicted heavy losses on the assailants,” he said. Heavy Losses Reported Among Attackers The FARDC spokesperson noted that several bodies were left behind on the battlefield, underlining the intensity of the fighting. While no official casualty figures were released, the army described the engagement as a significant tactical setback for the attacking forces. ADVERTISEMENT The confrontation follows days of unusual enemy movements and troop build-ups, observed since Friday in areas south of Uvira town and around Nyambunguma, according to military sources. FARDC Reaffirms Territorial Defense Captain Bijanu reiterated the Congolese army’s determination to defend national territory and called on local communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces. 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 Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas . Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects . “The FARDC remain fully committed to defending every inch of the national territory,” he said, urging civilians to report any suspicious movements to authorities. Eastern DRC has faced continued insecurity linked to the Rwandan-backed M23/AFC coalition, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts at the regional and international levels to de-escalate the conflict. Source: RTNC (Congolese National Radio and Television) ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" Tshisekedi says armed groups cannot turn military conquest into political legitimacy, . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% Rwanda faces surging prices at home as US sanctions and tighter external financing add pressure abroad. . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform The three-month process will reach all 26 provinces and seek consensus on peace, cohesion and . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas Kinshasa says students will not restart their studies as temporary measures protect academic records, . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo FARDC Congo FARDC Congo

Alexandra court grants R50,000 bail to JDA and acting JOSHCO CEO Themba Mathibe; case postponed to 2 June as police trace cash flows. A south African Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) head and acting Johannesburg Social Housing Company (JOSHCO) CEO Themba Mathibe has been granted R50,000 bail on a money-laundering charge, with the case postponed to 2 June as police continue an investigation they say could still expand to include additional arrests as reported by News24. Mathibe was arrested on Monday after police say he was found in possession of a substantial amount of cash at his home. While police did not confirm the exact figure, News24 reported it had been reliably informed the amount was around R2 million . National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the arrest followed an extensive investigation into allegations of procurement irregularities linked to the City’s social housing company. She said the arrest was carried out by the police Cold Case Unit and Special Task Force , and that investigators acted on a J51 search-and-seizure warrant , raiding both Mathibe’s home and offices. JOSHCO confirmed that police conducted a raid at its headquarters and that some employees were questioned. The organisation said it respected the rule of law and the presumption of innocence, and indicated its board would consider the way forward once any allegations were formally confirmed through the relevant legal and governance channels . People also read: Authorities to Review Safety After Chapman’s Peak Off-Road Incident Why the ANC NEC Lekgotla matters ahead of local elections Booysens court shooting linked to Mondeor murder trial: Nel The case lands in a sensitive part of city governance: JOSHCO is mandated to help address Johannesburg’s housing backlog and is solely owned by the City of Johannesburg, with thousands of rental units under management, according to sector body NASHO. The JDA, meanwhile, is the City’s development agency responsible for implementing regeneration and infrastructure programmes, and its executive listings identify Mathibe as CEO. For now, the court timetable is clear, while the investigative picture remains open: police say they are still pursuing the procurement probe and have not ruled out more arrests ahead of the June appearance. Continue Reading Full Article BUSINESS PROFILES JDA boss Mathibe on bail as money-laundering case set for June By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jan 28, 2026 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A south African Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) head and acting Johannesburg Social Housing Company (JOSHCO) CEO Themba Mathibe has been granted R50,000 bail on a money-laundering charge, with the case postponed to 2 June as police continue an investigation they say could still expand to include additional arrests as reported by News24. Mathibe was arrested on Monday after police say he was found in possession of a substantial amount of cash at his home. While police did not confirm the exact figure, News24 reported it had been reliably informed the amount was around R2 million . National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the arrest followed an extensive investigation into allegations of procurement irregularities linked to the City’s social housing company. She said the arrest was carried out by the police Cold Case Unit and Special Task Force , and that investigators acted on a J51 search-and-seizure warrant , raiding both Mathibe’s home and offices. ADVERTISEMENT JOSHCO confirmed that police conducted a raid at its headquarters and that some employees were questioned. The organisation said it respected the rule of law and the presumption of innocence, and indicated its board would consider the way forward once any allegations were formally confirmed through the relevant legal and governance channels . People also read: ADVERTISEMENT Authorities to Review Safety After Chapman’s Peak Off-Road Incident Why the ANC NEC Lekgotla matters ahead of local elections Booysens court shooting linked to Mondeor murder trial: Nel The case lands in a sensitive part of city governance: JOSHCO is mandated to help address Johannesburg’s housing backlog and is solely owned by the City of Johannesburg, with thousands of rental units under management, according to sector body NASHO. The JDA, meanwhile, is the City’s development agency responsible for implementing regeneration and infrastructure programmes, and its executive listings identify Mathibe as CEO. For now, the court timetable is clear, while the investigative picture remains open: police say they are still pursuing the procurement probe and have not ruled out more arrests ahead of the June appearance. 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 Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Social Service How to Check UIF Claim Status Online . Local Government How to Replace a Lost South African ID . Local Government How to Check Your South African Passport Status . Source: News24 ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return Use the official SARS checker and 2026 rules to see if you must file an ITR12. . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online Book a SARS branch, video or phone slot on eBooking, MobiApp, SMS or 0800 00 7277. . Social Service How to Check UIF Claim Status Online Use UIF Online, free USSD *134*843#, or call 0800 030 007 to track your claim. . Local Government How to Replace a Lost South African ID Report loss at SAPS, then reissue a Smart ID at Home Affairs or a bank for R140. . Tags South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services South Africa South Africa South Africa News South Africa News Crime & Justice Crime & Justice

Congo’s franc gains value after a $150M injection by BCC. President Tshisekedi calls for lower prices to reflect rising purchasing power. President Tshisekedi leads economic crisis meeting, calls for lower food and fuel prices as currency strengthens. The Congolese franc (CDF) has registered its first significant appreciation in history, following a $150 million injection by the Central Bank of Congo (BCC) into the local market. This monetary operation, carried out by newly appointed BCC Governor André Wameso, marks a critical milestone in efforts to stabilize the national currency and curb dollarization. Currency Strengthening Strategy Underway The foreign exchange operation follows the correction of the prudential coefficient, a monetary policy tool designed to boost confidence in the Congolese franc. Two additional corrections are planned, one in December 2025 and another in February 2026, as part of a long-term plan to reduce the dominance of the U.S. dollar in Congo’s economy. “This is the first time since its creation that the Congolese franc has appreciated in real terms,” said an official at the Central Bank. President Tshisekedi Chairs High-Level Economic Meeting On Wednesday, President Félix Tshisekedi convened a high-level economic meeting at the City of the African Union headquarters to assess the impact of the currency’s appreciation on consumer prices and purchasing power. Attendees included: Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Deputy Prime Ministers in charge of the Budget and the National Economy Continue Reading Full Article CONGO'S INVESTMENT Congo’s Franc Gains Ground as Central Bank Injects $150 Million By Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Political Analyst Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Home Comment Oct 23, 2025 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: President Tshisekedi leads economic crisis meeting, calls for lower food and fuel prices as currency strengthens. The Congolese franc (CDF) has registered its first significant appreciation in history, following a $150 million injection by the Central Bank of Congo (BCC) into the local market. This monetary operation, carried out by newly appointed BCC Governor André Wameso, marks a critical milestone in efforts to stabilize the national currency and curb dollarization. Currency Strengthening Strategy Underway The foreign exchange operation follows the correction of the prudential coefficient, a monetary policy tool designed to boost confidence in the Congolese franc. Two additional corrections are planned, one in December 2025 and another in February 2026, as part of a long-term plan to reduce the dominance of the U.S. dollar in Congo’s economy. “This is the first time since its creation that the Congolese franc has appreciated in real terms,” said an official at the Central Bank. ADVERTISEMENT President Tshisekedi Chairs High-Level Economic Meeting On Wednesday, President Félix Tshisekedi convened a high-level economic meeting at the City of the African Union headquarters to assess the impact of the currency’s appreciation on consumer prices and purchasing power. Attendees included: Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Deputy Prime Ministers in charge of the Budget and the National Economy Ministers of Finance and Industry Governor of the Central Bank André Wameso The key topic: ensuring that the franc’s gains translate into lower market prices, particularly for food and fuel. Government Calls for Price Adjustments Deputy Prime Minister of the Economy, Daniel Mukoko Samba , highlighted the government’s aim to coordinate fiscal and monetary policy more effectively. ADVERTISEMENT “Price decreases must be proportional to the CDF’s appreciation so that households feel the benefit in their daily lives,” Mukoko told reporters. He confirmed that: A technical review is underway to evaluate recent market trends. Fuel prices are likely to drop in the coming days. Price inspections will intensify to ensure economic actors comply with new price expectations. A follow-up consultation between the government and private sector is scheduled for Friday, aiming to align retail pricing with exchange rate improvements. 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 Opens Lonshi Border Post to Expand Zambia Trade . Infrastructure DRC Prepares $1.258 Billion Lobito Corridor Railway Contract . Regional Economy DRC and Tanzania Advance Central Corridor Plan to Cut Trade Costs . Regional Economy Tanzania and DRC Move to Deepen Trade, Mining and Infrastructure Ties . Business & Investment DRC Advances $491.3M Package for Education, Health and Businesses . Dollarization Still a Challenge Despite the progress, the Congolese economy remains highly dollarized, with a large portion of transactions still conducted in U.S. dollars. The government's current strategy aims to gradually restore confidence in the local currency and reduce dependency on the dollar in the medium to long term. Governor Wameso’s leadership at the Central Bank, which includes his recent appointment to head the regional CSBAOCM banking supervision committee for 2026, reflects Kinshasa’s ambition to assert stronger monetary sovereignty. Outlook If implemented effectively, these reforms could improve consumer welfare, boost local industry competitiveness, and lay the groundwork for a more autonomous financial system in Central Africa. The coming weeks will reveal whether the appreciation of the CDF will yield real savings at the market level or remain only a monetary milestone on paper. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Infrastructure DRC Opens Lonshi Border Post to Expand Zambia Trade New facility strengthens migration control, security and formal cross-border commerce . 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 . Regional Economy DRC and Tanzania Advance Central Corridor Plan to Cut Trade Costs Ports, rail, lake transport, fibre and a planned Congolese dry port could strengthen regional trade. . Regional Economy Tanzania and DRC Move to Deepen Trade, Mining and Infrastructure Ties Samia Suluhu Hassan and Félix Tshisekedi push for stronger trade, connectivity and mining ties. . Tags DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo

The United States Embassy in Tanzania has temporarily ceased operations for two days due to severe network disruptions affecting the country. As Tanzania grapples with a significant internet outage stemming from a damaged submarine cable, the embassy will remain closed to the public on May 14th and 15th. This outage not only impacts Tanzania but also extends to neighboring countries including Kenya, causing widespread connectivity issues across East and Southern Africa. In response to the network degradation, the embassy announced that all consular appointments initially scheduled for the affected dates will be postponed and rescheduled. Despite the closure, the embassy clarified that the consular section would still be open for visa collection and handling emergency situations involving American citizens. This network problem is linked to a cut in one of the submarine cables that provide internet connectivity to the region. The disruption has resulted in slower internet speeds across several African nations. Leading telecommunications provider Safaricom has already issued alerts to its customers, advising them of potential service interruptions. The situation underscores the vulnerability of global internet infrastructure and the cascading effects that can arise from disruptions in connectivity. As countries and companies in the region scramble to mitigate the impact, the incident highlights the critical need for robust and resilient internet infrastructure to support global communications and operations. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 14, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The United States national flag The United States Embassy in Tanzania has temporarily ceased operations for two days due to severe network disruptions affecting the country. As Tanzania grapples with a significant internet outage stemming from a damaged submarine cable, the embassy will remain closed to the public on May 14th and 15th. This outage not only impacts Tanzania but also extends to neighboring countries including Kenya, causing widespread connectivity issues across East and Southern Africa. In response to the network degradation, the embassy announced that all consular appointments initially scheduled for the affected dates will be postponed and rescheduled. ADVERTISEMENT Despite the closure, the embassy clarified that the consular section would still be open for visa collection and handling emergency situations involving American citizens. This network problem is linked to a cut in one of the submarine cables that provide internet connectivity to the region. The disruption has resulted in slower internet speeds across several African nations. Leading telecommunications provider Safaricom has already issued alerts to its customers, advising them of potential service interruptions. ADVERTISEMENT The situation underscores the vulnerability of global internet infrastructure and the cascading effects that can arise from disruptions in connectivity. As countries and companies in the region scramble to mitigate the impact, the incident highlights the critical need for robust and resilient internet infrastructure to support global communications and operations. 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

Donald Trump signalled more US strikes in Nigeria if Christians are killed. Nigeria says the Christmas strike targeted terrorists, not religion. United States President Donald Trump has suggested the US military could carry out further airstrikes in Nigeria if he believes Christians continue to be killed there. Citing an interview published by The New York Times , reported that Trump said he hoped December’s attack would be a “one‑time strike” but warned it could become a “many‑time strike” if attacks on Christians continued . The comments were first reported by BBC News , which noted Nigeria’s government rejects allegations of widespread Christian persecution. The remarks come two weeks after the US launched Tomahawk missile strikes in northwest Nigeria, an operation Washington said targeted Islamic State militants at the request of the Nigerian government. On 25 December 2025 , the US Navy fired about a dozen Tomahawk missiles at two camps in Nigeria’s Sokoto State , an area where a new jihadist faction called Lakurawa has been operating. The US Africa Command said the strikes were ordered by the president and conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities to kill militants associated with the Islamic State group. Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar later told local media the operation was “a joint operation” and emphasised that it “had nothing to do with a particular religion”. During his interview with the Times , Trump was asked whether the Christmas Day strike signaled a wider military campaign. “I’d love to make it a one‑time strike,” he said. “But if they continue to kill Christians, it will be a many‑time strike”. Pressed about his Africa adviser’s assertion that Islamist extremists kill more Muslims than Christians, the president acknowledged Muslims are victims too but insisted “it’s mostly Christians”. Nigeria rejects genocide claims Nigeria’s government has repeatedly rejected suggestions that Christians face systematic persecution. In the wake of Trump’s threat, presidential adviser Daniel Bwala said the country welcomes US assistance against insurgents but only if its sovereignty is respected. He stressed that Nigeria “does not discriminate against any tribe or religion” and dismissed talk of a Christian genocide. Foreign Minister Tuggar also insisted the Christmas strike was a joint counter‑terrorism operation and not aimed at any faith . The West African nation has a population of more than 230 million that is roughly evenly split between Christians and Muslims. Analysts and monitoring groups say jihadist violence has devastated communities of all religions and that the vast majority of victims are Muslims. Data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) cited by Reuters showed that out of 1,923 attacks on civilians in Nigeria during 2025 only 50 specifically targeted Christians. Experts note that much of the violence in northern Nigeria is driven by overlapping factors including ethnic tensions, competition over land and the influence of armed gangs. Background on Lakurawa and the wider insurgency Nigeria is already fighting several armed groups, including Boko Haram , its offshoot Islamic State West Africa Province , bandit gangs and more recently Lakurawa . The Lakurawa group emerged in northwest Nigeria in 2018 and has since been linked to Islamic State. A federal court declared it a terrorist organisation in January 2025, allowing security forces to use “maximum force” against its members. Continue Reading Full Article POLITICS & DIPLOMACY Trump signals more US strikes in Nigeria if Christians are killed By Sebastiane Ebatamehi Pan-African Analyst & Content Strategist Sebastiane Ebatamehi Home Comment Jan 9, 2026 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: United States President Donald Trump has suggested the US military could carry out further airstrikes in Nigeria if he believes Christians continue to be killed there. Citing an interview published by The New York Times , reported that Trump said he hoped December’s attack would be a “one‑time strike” but warned it could become a “many‑time strike” if attacks on Christians continued . The comments were first reported by BBC News , which noted Nigeria’s government rejects allegations of widespread Christian persecution. The remarks come two weeks after the US launched Tomahawk missile strikes in northwest Nigeria, an operation Washington said targeted Islamic State militants at the request of the Nigerian government. On 25 December 2025 , the US Navy fired about a dozen Tomahawk missiles at two camps in Nigeria’s Sokoto State , an area where a new jihadist faction called Lakurawa has been operating. The US Africa Command said the strikes were ordered by the president and conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities to kill militants associated with the Islamic State group. Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar later told local media the operation was “a joint operation” and emphasised that it “had nothing to do with a particular religion”. ADVERTISEMENT During his interview with the Times , Trump was asked whether the Christmas Day strike signaled a wider military campaign. “I’d love to make it a one‑time strike,” he said. “But if they continue to kill Christians, it will be a many‑time strike”. Pressed about his Africa adviser’s assertion that Islamist extremists kill more Muslims than Christians, the president acknowledged Muslims are victims too but insisted “it’s mostly Christians”. Nigeria rejects genocide claims Nigeria’s government has repeatedly rejected suggestions that Christians face systematic persecution. In the wake of Trump’s threat, presidential adviser Daniel Bwala said the country welcomes US assistance against insurgents but only if its sovereignty is respected. He stressed that Nigeria “does not discriminate against any tribe or religion” and dismissed talk of a Christian genocide. Foreign Minister Tuggar also insisted the Christmas strike was a joint counter‑terrorism operation and not aimed at any faith . The West African nation has a population of more than 230 million that is roughly evenly split between Christians and Muslims. Analysts and monitoring groups say jihadist violence has devastated communities of all religions and that the vast majority of victims are Muslims. ADVERTISEMENT Data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) cited by Reuters showed that out of 1,923 attacks on civilians in Nigeria during 2025 only 50 specifically targeted Christians. Experts note that much of the violence in northern Nigeria is driven by overlapping factors including ethnic tensions, competition over land and the influence of armed gangs. Background on Lakurawa and the wider insurgency Nigeria is already fighting several armed groups, including Boko Haram , its offshoot Islamic State West Africa Province , bandit gangs and more recently Lakurawa . The Lakurawa group emerged in northwest Nigeria in 2018 and has since been linked to Islamic State. A federal court declared it a terrorist organisation in January 2025, allowing security forces to use “maximum force” against its members. The group operates mainly in Kebbi and Sokoto states and has imposed harsh edicts on local communities, prompting Nigeria’s military to resume joint patrols with neighbouring Niger. 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 Visa and Entry Updates US B1/B2 Visa Revocations: What Africans Need to Know . Nigeria News Nigerian Army Raids IPOB/ESN Hideouts, Recovers IED Materials . Biography Who Was Babacar Mbaye Ndaak? Life, Career and Death . Accident News How Did Brandon Clarke Die? Latest Updates & Police Reports . Health News What Is Hantavirus? The Rare Virus Linked to Cruise Ship Deaths . The December airstrike marked a rare instance of US military action in Nigeria. A US defence official told Reuters the operation was partly symbolic and intended to deter extremists and reassure allies. Nigeria’s government said the attack was timed for strategic reasons and had the approval of President Bola Tinubu . Why it matters Trump’s comments underscore his administration’s willingness to use force in support of allies facing Islamist insurgencies and reflect domestic US politics; evangelical voters have pressured his administration to respond to violence against Christians abroad. Nigeria, which is Africa’s biggest economy, is a key security partner for Washington. Further unilateral US strikes risk straining relations if Nigeria perceives them as undermining its sovereignty. For now, Abuja says it will continue working with Washington to fight militants while rejecting claims that any one religion is being singled out. Source: BBC News ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Visa and Entry Updates US B1/B2 Visa Revocations: What Africans Need to Know Up to 200,000 visitor visas could be revoked under a planned US policy targeting foreigners . Nigeria News Nigerian Army Raids IPOB/ESN Hideouts, Recovers IED Materials Troops raided suspected IPOB/ESN positions in Anambra, recovering guns, motorcycles and IED materials. . Biography Who Was Babacar Mbaye Ndaak? Life, Career and Death The Senegalese storyteller devoted his life to protecting and teaching Africa’s oral heritage. . Accident News How Did Brandon Clarke Die? Latest Updates & Police Reports Police are investigating Brandon Clarke’s sudden death as a possible overdose. . Tags World News World News Nigeria Nigeria BBC NEWS BBC NEWS Nigeria News Nigeria News

FINCA RDC and TRANSFORME have signed an agreement to channel grants and financial support to 1,018 selected Congolese entrepreneurs. KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo - A new partnership between FINCA RDC and the government-led, World Bank-supported TRANSFORME project is moving 1,018 Congolese entrepreneurs closer to receiving grants awarded through the COPA-TRANSFORME business-plan competition. The two institutions signed a memorandum of understanding in Kinshasa on August 6 to organise the disbursement and management of financial support intended for selected new enterprises. Under the agreement, TRANSFORME will make the grant resources available through FINCA, while the microfinance institution will open accounts for beneficiaries, facilitate the transfer of funds and provide financial guidance to help entrepreneurs manage the support responsibly. The agreement is an important implementation milestone. It connects an entrepreneurship competition to a financial network capable of turning approved support into business capital for Congolese founders. From Selection to a Practical Grant Channel The 1,018 beneficiaries have already been selected through the COPA-TRANSFORME process. The agreement does not launch a new call for applications. Instead, it establishes the mechanism through which the approved grants are expected to reach those entrepreneurs. That distinction matters. Winning or being selected for a business-support programme is only one stage. Entrepreneurs also need a secure account, clear procedures and financial support that helps them convert grant money into productive investment. The FINCA–TRANSFORME arrangement is designed to provide that bridge. No individual grant amount or complete disbursement calendar was announced with the signing. The confirmed milestone is that the institutional channel for the 1,018 selected entrepreneurs has now been established. Why FINCA’s Network Matters Continue Reading Full Article BUSINESS & INVESTMENT DRC: FINCA-TRANSFORME Grants for 1,018 DRC Entrepreneurs By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 7, 2026 Aug 7, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo - A new partnership between FINCA RDC and the government-led, World Bank-supported TRANSFORME project is moving 1,018 Congolese entrepreneurs closer to receiving grants awarded through the COPA-TRANSFORME business-plan competition. The two institutions signed a memorandum of understanding in Kinshasa on August 6 to organise the disbursement and management of financial support intended for selected new enterprises. Under the agreement, TRANSFORME will make the grant resources available through FINCA, while the microfinance institution will open accounts for beneficiaries, facilitate the transfer of funds and provide financial guidance to help entrepreneurs manage the support responsibly. The agreement is an important implementation milestone. It connects an entrepreneurship competition to a financial network capable of turning approved support into business capital for Congolese founders. From Selection to a Practical Grant Channel The 1,018 beneficiaries have already been selected through the COPA-TRANSFORME process. The agreement does not launch a new call for applications. Instead, it establishes the mechanism through which the approved grants are expected to reach those entrepreneurs. That distinction matters. Winning or being selected for a business-support programme is only one stage. Entrepreneurs also need a secure account, clear procedures and financial support that helps them convert grant money into productive investment. ADVERTISEMENT The FINCA–TRANSFORME arrangement is designed to provide that bridge. Stage What it means for beneficiaries COPA selection 1,018 new enterprises have been identified as beneficiaries through the TRANSFORME competition Partnership signed TRANSFORME and FINCA now have a formal framework for managing the grants FINCA accounts Beneficiaries will receive their grants through accounts opened with FINCA RDC Financial guidance Entrepreneurs will receive support intended to strengthen responsible management, saving and investment Business growth The grants and related services are intended to help young enterprises develop their activities and create economic value No individual grant amount or complete disbursement calendar was announced with the signing. The confirmed milestone is that the institutional channel for the 1,018 selected entrepreneurs has now been established. Why FINCA’s Network Matters FINCA RDC was selected as a financial institution with a proximity network capable of serving entrepreneurs across the areas targeted by the programme. The institution has operated in the DRC since 2003 and reports a network of 23 branches and approximately 1,700 FINCA Express banking agents. That footprint can help bring formal financial services closer to entrepreneurs who may be using a regulated financial institution for the first time. The partnership covers beneficiaries in Kinshasa, the Kongo Central corridor, including Matadi, as well as Bunia, Mbuji-Mayi and Kananga. ADVERTISEMENT For young businesses outside the capital, proximity is critical. A financial partner with branches and agent banking points can reduce the distance between a national programme and the entrepreneurs it is intended to support. FINCA is also expected to offer relevant financial and non-financial products according to beneficiary needs. These may include business credit, savings tools, payment services and digital financial solutions that can extend the value of the original grant. A Stronger Path for Women and Young Enterprises TRANSFORME is formally known as the Project for the Empowerment of Women Entrepreneurs and Upgrading of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises for Economic Transformation and Employment. The programme is led by the Congolese government with World Bank support and places particular emphasis on women-owned and women-led businesses. The World Bank approved $300 million for TRANSFORME with the broader goals of strengthening new and existing enterprises, expanding access to finance and supporting job creation. The FINCA agreement falls under the programme component supporting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, including new businesses operating for less than three years. This focus is important because many promising Congolese businesses begin with strong ideas and local demand but remain limited by insufficient capital, weak financial records or a lack of access to formal banking services. 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 Opens Lonshi Border Post to Expand Zambia Trade . Infrastructure DRC Prepares $1.258 Billion Lobito Corridor Railway Contract . Regional Economy DRC and Tanzania Advance Central Corridor Plan to Cut Trade Costs . Regional Economy Tanzania and DRC Move to Deepen Trade, Mining and Infrastructure Ties . Business & Investment DRC Advances $491.3M Package for Education, Health and Businesses . By combining grant support with account ownership and financial guidance, the programme can help beneficiaries build more structured businesses. For women entrepreneurs in particular, greater access to finance can strengthen economic independence, household resilience and participation in Congo’s formal economy. A Government Strategy Focused on Congolese Enterprise The agreement advances the government’s effort to make entrepreneurship a practical pillar of economic transformation. Rather than treating small businesses only as survival activities, TRANSFORME positions micro, small and medium-sized enterprises as engines of production, innovation and employment. The programme links public leadership, international development financing and Congolese financial institutions around the needs of local entrepreneurs. The arrival of FINCA as TRANSFORME’s first microfinance partner expands an existing network that included seven commercial banks. It gives the programme an additional channel specifically suited to micro and young enterprises, including businesses that may not yet fit the traditional commercial-banking model. For the 1,018 selected entrepreneurs, the August 6 signing signals movement from competition results toward implementation. For the wider economy, it demonstrates how government programmes and financial institutions can work together to connect Congolese talent with the capital and services needed to grow. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Infrastructure DRC Opens Lonshi Border Post to Expand Zambia Trade New facility strengthens migration control, security and formal cross-border commerce . 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 . Regional Economy DRC and Tanzania Advance Central Corridor Plan to Cut Trade Costs Ports, rail, lake transport, fibre and a planned Congolese dry port could strengthen regional trade. . Regional Economy Tanzania and DRC Move to Deepen Trade, Mining and Infrastructure Ties Samia Suluhu Hassan and Félix Tshisekedi push for stronger trade, connectivity and mining ties. . Tags DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo

As US focus narrows, analysts urge African states to coordinate bargaining power to avoid weaker terms in security and minerals deals. African leaders meeting in Addis Ababa for the African Union’s annual summit are confronting a sharper strategic dilemma: how to protect national interests in a more transactional global environment where major powers increasingly prioritise selective partnerships and deal-by-deal bargaining. The warning from Chatham House’s Tighisti Amare is blunt without an effective common strategy, African countries risk being “left behind” as global competition accelerates and leverage concentrates in the hands of the strongest actors . The challenge is not new. African governments have long argued the continent deserves a stronger voice in global decision-making, including in multilateral forums and international financial institutions. What has changed is the intensity of the shift away from broad-based multilateralism toward narrower definitions of national interest among major powers especially in Washington paired with a growing appetite for bilateral arrangements that can be negotiated quickly and tailored to specific resources or security priorities. In the article, that shift is framed through a phrase popularised in recent international discussions: countries are either “at the table” or “on the menu.” For many African states, the concern is that the global “menu” is expanding particularly where minerals and natural resources are involved at a moment when fragmented negotiating positions can produce weaker terms, fewer safeguards, and limited room to extract long-term industrial benefits. A narrower US focus, and what it means in practice This analysis notes that US policy messaging has evolved from expansive partnership language in the previous administration to a more selective approach under President Donald Trump’s second term. The White House’s posture emphasises prioritisation, arguing the United States cannot be equally attentive to every region and every challenge. In practical terms, that implies reduced diplomatic bandwidth for Africa compared with other theatres while still leaving room for targeted engagement where US interests are clear, including trade, investment, and select security cooperation. This is the context in which Amare’s argument lands: if the external environment is becoming more transactional, then African states may need stronger coordination mechanisms to avoid negotiating from a position of isolation especially when major powers can offer incentives to individual countries to strike separate agreements. A central point in the original analysis is the growing appeal of bilateral deals particularly those tied to minerals and natural resources. These arrangements can move quickly, bypass regional consensus-building, and reduce opportunities for collective bargaining. For resource-rich states, the immediate gains can be attractive: investment pledges, security assistance, infrastructure commitments, or preferential market access. But critics argue that bilateral bargaining can also narrow what is on the negotiating table. If the discussion centres on extraction and access, it can become harder to secure broader packages that support industrialisation, skills development, value addition, and stronger regulatory frameworks. In other words, a country may secure a deal, but not necessarily a development pathway. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN MARKETS AU: African states urged to unite strategy or risk being left behind By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Feb 13, 2026 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: African leaders meeting in Addis Ababa for the African Union’s annual summit are confronting a sharper strategic dilemma: how to protect national interests in a more transactional global environment where major powers increasingly prioritise selective partnerships and deal-by-deal bargaining. The warning from Chatham House’s Tighisti Amare is blunt without an effective common strategy, African countries risk being “left behind” as global competition accelerates and leverage concentrates in the hands of the strongest actors . The challenge is not new. African governments have long argued the continent deserves a stronger voice in global decision-making, including in multilateral forums and international financial institutions. What has changed is the intensity of the shift away from broad-based multilateralism toward narrower definitions of national interest among major powers especially in Washington paired with a growing appetite for bilateral arrangements that can be negotiated quickly and tailored to specific resources or security priorities. In the article, that shift is framed through a phrase popularised in recent international discussions: countries are either “at the table” or “on the menu.” For many African states, the concern is that the global “menu” is expanding particularly where minerals and natural resources are involved at a moment when fragmented negotiating positions can produce weaker terms, fewer safeguards, and limited room to extract long-term industrial benefits. A narrower US focus, and what it means in practice This analysis notes that US policy messaging has evolved from expansive partnership language in the previous administration to a more selective approach under President Donald Trump’s second term. The White House’s posture emphasises prioritisation, arguing the United States cannot be equally attentive to every region and every challenge. In practical terms, that implies reduced diplomatic bandwidth for Africa compared with other theatres while still leaving room for targeted engagement where US interests are clear, including trade, investment, and select security cooperation. ADVERTISEMENT This is the context in which Amare’s argument lands: if the external environment is becoming more transactional, then African states may need stronger coordination mechanisms to avoid negotiating from a position of isolation especially when major powers can offer incentives to individual countries to strike separate agreements. A central point in the original analysis is the growing appeal of bilateral deals particularly those tied to minerals and natural resources. These arrangements can move quickly, bypass regional consensus-building, and reduce opportunities for collective bargaining. For resource-rich states, the immediate gains can be attractive: investment pledges, security assistance, infrastructure commitments, or preferential market access. But critics argue that bilateral bargaining can also narrow what is on the negotiating table. If the discussion centres on extraction and access, it can become harder to secure broader packages that support industrialisation, skills development, value addition, and stronger regulatory frameworks. In other words, a country may secure a deal, but not necessarily a development pathway. This is where a “common strategy” becomes more than a diplomatic slogan. It can mean shared benchmarks for minerals deals, regional consultation norms, minimum transparency expectations, or coordinated negotiating positions that raise the floor on terms offered to any one country. A realist argument without romantic assumptions The analysis also includes a realist defence of the US approach, voiced by Peter Pham, who argues that no country even a superpower can be “all things to everyone.” From this perspective, prioritisation is not hostility; it is a recognition of limited resources and competing priorities. ADVERTISEMENT For African policymakers, the lesson is not simply that external partners are unreliable, but that external attention is conditional and may be increasingly tied to specific strategic interests. That reality strengthens the case for coordination: if partners are selective, then African states may need to be more selective and more unified in defining what they want, what they will trade, and what standards must apply. Amare’s warning does not prescribe a single model, but it points toward a practical question AU leaders face: what coordination is realistic now? Shared negotiating principles for minerals and strategic infrastructure deals (value addition, local content, dispute resolution norms). Greater regional consultation before signing high-impact agreements that affect cross-border supply chains or security dynamics. Stronger collective messaging on financing and trade terms, especially where individual countries have limited leverage. 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 . Investment readiness coordination, so external capital supports industrial goals rather than fragmented projects with limited spillover. Longer-term coordination is harder because it runs into domestic politics, competing national interests, and uneven institutional capacity. But the direction of travel is clear in the analysis: fragmentation carries higher costs in a world of more assertive great-power bargaining. The AU summit moment , as described in the original piece, is less about a single decision than about a mindset shift. If African states treat coordination as optional, bilateral deal-making may continue to erode collective leverage. If they treat it as a strategic asset used selectively, pragmatically, and in ways that respect national interests then coordination can become a bargaining tool rather than an abstract ideal. The warning that Africa could be “left behind” is ultimately about pace: great powers are moving quickly, and the continent’s negotiating posture will matter most where decisions are made fastest security cooperation, critical minerals, and investment frameworks that shape development choices for years. 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 Ethiopia Ethiopia African Union African Union African Innovation African Innovation African Diaspora African Diaspora