ADF militants killed at least 40 people in eastern Congo, raising new concerns over civilian security near Uganda. At least 40 people were killed after Allied Democratic Forces militants attacked villages in eastern Congo near the Uganda border, according to an AP report citing local civil society leaders. The killings matter because they underline the continued threat posed by the ADF, an Islamic State-affiliated armed group with roots in Uganda that has operated for years across Congo’s eastern border region. Local sources said 25 people were killed in Beni territory in North Kivu, while 15 others died in Ituri province. Homes were also reportedly burned and looted, and the toll could rise because several residents remained missing. The attack comes days after Amnesty International accused the ADF of abuses against civilians that it said may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity . Eastern Congo remains under pressure from multiple armed groups, including the ADF and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebellion. Previous ADF attacks have caused heavy civilian casualties, including a July 2025 assault in which 66 people were killed, according to AP-linked reporting. The latest killings add to concerns over civilian protection in border communities where local authorities and residents continue to face recurring attacks, displacement and insecurity. Continue Reading Full Article WAR IN DR CONGO WHY 40 more people Killed In Congo ADF Attacks Raise Alarm By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 8, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: At least 40 people were killed after Allied Democratic Forces militants attacked villages in eastern Congo near the Uganda border, according to an AP report citing local civil society leaders. The killings matter because they underline the continued threat posed by the ADF, an Islamic State-affiliated armed group with roots in Uganda that has operated for years across Congo’s eastern border region. Local sources said 25 people were killed in Beni territory in North Kivu, while 15 others died in Ituri province. Homes were also reportedly burned and looted, and the toll could rise because several residents remained missing. ADVERTISEMENT The attack comes days after Amnesty International accused the ADF of abuses against civilians that it said may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity . Eastern Congo remains under pressure from multiple armed groups, including the ADF and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebellion. Previous ADF attacks have caused heavy civilian casualties, including a July 2025 assault in which 66 people were killed, according to AP-linked reporting. ADVERTISEMENT The latest killings add to concerns over civilian protection in border communities where local authorities and residents continue to face recurring attacks, displacement and insecurity. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW Kahuzi-Biega National Park: Land of Gorillas, Volcanoes & Wild Harmony . National Park Visit Virunga National Park – Congo’s Crown Jewel of Nature & Wildlife . National Park Denise Nyakeru Foundation Awards Top Students in Excellentia 2025 . Education EXETAT 2025: Congo Digitizes Exams with AI and Blockchain Tools . Education 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 . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE DRC Peace Effort Felix Tshisekedi’s Diplomacy Wins Youth Support at UNIKIN At UNIKIN, Minister Muyaya explains how President Tshisekedi's diplomacy defends Congo . Congo Diplomacy DRC Presents Its Vision for Transformation and Peace at UN SDG Forum At the UN SDG Forum, DRC highlighted its development achievements . Investment Investor’s Guide to DR Congo (2025): Sectors, Reforms & Opportunities Explore how to invest in DR Congo: key sectors, setup steps and legal safety . Tshisekedi Legacy Félix Tshisekedi: Champion of Change and Sovereignty in DR Congo Discover the bold legacy of Félix Tshisekedi, the DRC president transforming his nation . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo

President Tshisekedi launches Congo’s agriculture revolution: tractors, seeds, and reforms to revive the breadbasket dream for 2025-2026. Quick Links A Nation That Forgot Its Fertile Soil The Presidential Roadmap The Bigger Picture From Words to Action Voices from the Ground Introduction For decades, the Democratic Republic of Congo was known more for its mineral riches than for the fertile soil that covers the nation. Despite having more than 80 million hectares of arable land, conflict, mismanagement, and an economy built around the “resource curse” turned the country into a net food importer. Villages once fed themselves with cassava, maize, rice, and beans; today, many rely on imported flour and second‑hand vegetables trucked over broken roads. On 28 August 2025, a different image emerged. At the agricultural zone of Menkao, roughly 50 kilometres from central Kinshasa, President Félix Tshisekedi inaugurated the 2025–2026 agricultural season. Surrounded by ministers, planters, and farmers, he handed over hundreds of tractors and farming equipment destined for the 26 provinces, symbolising a government willing to invest in rural communities. In his speech, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security Muhindo Nzangi reminded the crowd that the government has allocated 10 % of the national budget to agriculture, meeting the African Union’s Maputo commitment to devote at least one‑tenth of public spending to the sector. The launch was more than a ceremony; it was a declaration that Congo’s soil will finally take “revenge” on the sub‑soil that has dominated its economy Continue Reading Full Article AGRICULTURE Tshisekedi Launches Congo’s Agricultural Revival in Menkao By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Aug 29, 2025 May 15, 2026 12 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Quick Links A Nation That Forgot Its Fertile Soil The Presidential Roadmap The Bigger Picture From Words to Action Voices from the Ground Introduction For decades, the Democratic Republic of Congo was known more for its mineral riches than for the fertile soil that covers the nation. Despite having more than 80 million hectares of arable land, conflict, mismanagement, and an economy built around the “resource curse” turned the country into a net food importer. Villages once fed themselves with cassava, maize, rice, and beans; today, many rely on imported flour and second‑hand vegetables trucked over broken roads. On 28 August 2025, a different image emerged. At the agricultural zone of Menkao, roughly 50 kilometres from central Kinshasa, President Félix Tshisekedi inaugurated the 2025–2026 agricultural season. Surrounded by ministers, planters, and farmers, he handed over hundreds of tractors and farming equipment destined for the 26 provinces, symbolising a government willing to invest in rural communities. Rows of blue tractors await dispatch to Congo’s 26 provinces, reflecting the scale of the mechanisation effort In his speech, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security Muhindo Nzangi reminded the crowd that the government has allocated 10 % of the national budget to agriculture, meeting the African Union’s Maputo commitment to devote at least one‑tenth of public spending to the sector. The launch was more than a ceremony; it was a declaration that Congo’s soil will finally take “revenge” on the sub‑soil that has dominated its economy A Nation That Forgot Its Fertile Soil DR Congo is one of the most fertile countries in Africa. The Bateke Plateau east of Kinshasa, with its endless savannas, once supplied the capital with cassava, maize, and peanuts. But during the years of President Mobutu and the subsequent wars, agriculture was neglected. Farmers lacked credit, seeds, and tools; public extension services collapsed; militia violence scared growers away from their fields. When the men of the Mobondo militia roamed the plateau in 2024-2025, production plummeted and food insecurity rose . As the country relied more heavily on mining, its nickname shifted from the “breadbasket of Central Africa” to the world’s cobalt warehouse. This neglect has serious consequences. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, only about 10 million hectares of Congo’s arable land are cultivated, leaving vast potential idle. The International Fund for Agricultural Development notes that nearly 70 % of Congolese households depend on subsistence farming, yet yields are low because of poor inputs and obsolete techniques. Imported food is expensive in landlocked provinces like Kasai and Maniema, pushing families into debt. It is against this backdrop that Tshisekedi’s agricultural revival should be understood: reclaiming the land is about sovereignty and dignity. ADVERTISEMENT The president’s supporters describe the campaign as the “Revanche du sol sur le sous‑sol,” literally, the soil’s revenge on the sub‑soil. The phrase, echoed by agronomists at the Menkao launch, captures a generational aspiration to reduce dependence on minerals and build prosperity from fields, orchards, and coffee groves. It also mirrors Tshisekedi’s broader philosophy: that economic diversification, not extractive exports, must underpin national unity and peace. The Presidential Roadmap Launching tractors is only the start; the government has a detailed roadmap for transforming agriculture. In Menkao, Minister Nzangi outlined five priorities to guide the agricultural revolution. Though the official list has not yet been published in full, statements from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security highlight the following pillars: Coordination of agricultural initiatives. For years, provincial projects, donor programmes, and private investments have been scattered and redundant. Nzangi is creating an inter‑agency coordination mechanism to align initiatives, share data, and avoid duplication. This coordination is particularly important because the African Development Bank (AfDB) pledged to support Congo’s agriculture, recognising it as one of the largest beneficiaries of the African Development Fund Research and improved seeds. Many Congolese farmers still plant old seed varieties that yield little and succumb to disease. The ministry plans to relaunch public research institutes to develop and distribute improved seeds. This includes reviving national seed centres, training agronomists, and working with universities to adapt crops to Congo’s diverse agro‑ecological zones. Accessibility of inputs (fertilisers and pesticides). Fertiliser consumption in Congo is among the lowest in Africa. Nzangi’s roadmap seeks to subsidise fertiliser and pesticide distribution, set up rural agro‑dealer networks, and support local production. During the Menkao ceremony, he emphasised that the availability of seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides is central to boosting yields Mechanisation and motorisation brigades. Most farmers still rely on hoes and machetes. The government will deploy motorisation brigades, teams equipped with tractors, ploughs, and harvesters that communities can rent at subsidised rates. The dozens of blue tractors lined up in Menkao signalled the start of this mechanisation drive. Rural youth are being trained as tractor operators, mechanics, and machine managers, creating jobs beyond farming. President Félix Tshisekedi (left) and Minister Muhindo Nzangi (centre) inspect new tractors and discuss the agricultural roadmap during the Menkao ceremony Valorisation of agricultural agents. Agronomists, extension workers, and inspectors form the backbone of the sector, yet their salaries and status have been low. Nzangi announced a professionalisation programme to provide uniforms, training, and career progression for agricultural agents. According to RTNC’s report, he highlighted the need to valorise agricultural agents and ensure they are respected as professionals These priorities reflect lessons from previous failures. Past programmes imported equipment that languished for lack of operators or spare parts. Seeds arrived without the training to use them. Inputs were delivered without roads to reach remote farmers. By addressing coordination, research, inputs, mechanisation, and human resources simultaneously, the roadmap aims to build an ecosystem rather than scatter projects. From Words to Action The Menkao launch showed that the roadmap is already moving from policy to practice. Beyond speeches, the event featured a symbolic handover of hundreds of tractors to provincial representatives. Long lines of blue tractors with trailers and seed drills stretched along the road, ready to be dispatched to each province. Farmers who had previously tilled with hoes watched as machines promised to reduce labour and expand cultivated land. ADVERTISEMENT The government also announced several immediate measures: Four buses for ministry agents. These vehicles will transport extension officers and inspectors between far‑flung fields, making supervision and training feasible. Decree on the clothing of agricultural inspectors. Issuing uniforms may seem trivial, but it reflects a push to professionalise the civil service and instil pride among agents who will enforce standards and assist farmers. Launch of a campaign for perennial crops. Nzangi revealed plans to promote cocoa and coffee, crops with export potential that had been neglected during the mining boom. Seedlings will be distributed and farmers organised into cooperatives to access markets. Agricultural Development Fund. Perhaps the most transformative measure is the creation of a permanent Agricultural Development Fund. This fund will finance seeds, inputs, and fertilisers predictably, insulating farmers from budgetary fluctuations. During the launch, Nzangi affirmed that the fund will mobilise domestic resources and partner financing, ensuring that the handover of equipment is backed by sustainable funding. The symbolic distribution of tractors at Menkao was widely shared on social media. Photographs captured President Tshisekedi inspecting equipment alongside Minister Nzangi and farmers, emphasising the tangible nature of the reforms. Rows of machinery waiting to be dispatched to provinces illustrate the scale of investment and the government’s intention to mechanise rural economies. Voices from the Ground Policy pronouncements only matter if they change lives. Interviews with farmers and cooperative leaders provide a glimpse into the human impact of Tshisekedi’s reforms. Marie, a cassava farmer from the Bateke Plateau, attended the launch to witness the tractors. “My parents farmed this land with hoes. When the militias came, we stayed away, ” she explained. “Now we see machines and fertiliser. For the first time, I believe we can feed Kinshasa again.” Jean‑Pierre, leader of a growers’ cooperative in Kwilu Province, recalled years of disappointment. “Politicians promised us tractors before, but none arrived. This time, I saw the keys handed over. We are trained to use them and pay a small fee. With one tractor, ten villages can cultivate quickly.” A group of youths from Kasai said they were forming a mechanisation brigade. Trained as tractor drivers and mechanics, they will operate equipment and earn income by ploughing others’ fields. “We used to dream of going to the mines in Kolwezi. Now we see a future in agriculture,” one young man said, echoing the government’s message that farming offers dignity and opportunity. These testimonies illustrate how mechanisation and structured support can restore confidence in agriculture. Yet the farmers also voiced concerns. They worry about the security of roads and the fairness of machinery allocation. They emphasised the need for timely seed delivery and market access. Their voices highlight that reforms must be accompanied by transparent management and continued dialogue. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW Why DR Congo’s World Cup Playoff Could Lift Central Africa . Sports Trends DRC, China Discuss Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation, Support . Economic Reports ENA 9th Class Enters Service With Anti-Corruption Mandate . Education Kinsuka Power targets 5-year build after financing for 900MW dam . Economic Reports POPULAR TODAY Women football Congolese-Born Grace Geyoro Sets Record in Women’s Football Deal . Travel Guide How to Enter the Democratic Republic of Congo: Travel & Visa Guide . Entertainment Bioluminescence Cape Town 2025: Best Beaches, Dates & Viewing Guide . Agriculture Tshisekedi Launches Congo’s Agricultural Revival in Menkao . From Power to Prison: Baltasar Ebang Engonga Sentenced to 8 Years . The Bigger Picture Tshisekedi’s agricultural revolution cannot be separated from his wider reforms. Since assuming office in 2019, he has sought to break the resource curse by renegotiating mining contracts, combating child labour, and investing in infrastructure. The future of the DRC lies in agriculture, video shared by the DR Congo Minister of Agriculture In January 2024, his government renegotiated the Sicomines agreement with Chinese partners. The original 2008 “minerals‑for‑infrastructure” deal gave Chinese companies a 68 % stake and promised US$3 billion of infrastructure. By 2023, only US$822 million had been invested. The revised contract boosts the infrastructure budget to US$7 billion and requires annual royalties of 1.2 % This shift has already translated into new roads: Chinese firms broke ground on a 900‑kilometre upgrade of the National 1 road linking Mbuji‑Mayi to the mining hub of Nguba, a project the infrastructure minister celebrated with the phrase “Where the road goes, development follows” . Improved highways will allow farmers to transport cassava, maize, and coffee from rural zones to urban markets and export corridors. Tshisekedi has also tackled child labour in mines. A Child Labour Monitoring and Remediation System (CLMRS) introduced in 2023 registered 5,346 children working in artisanal cobalt mines and is providing remediation services. By 2024, the system had identified over 6,200 children and aims to remove them from hazardous work. These reforms reflect a broader agenda: profits from minerals should fund schools and farms, not the exploitation of children. Linking the soil and the sub‑soil in this way is deliberate. Revenues from responsible mining are being channelled into agriculture and infrastructure. Roads built with mining royalties will carry fertiliser to villages; classrooms built with cobalt revenues will educate the next generation of agronomists; renegotiated contracts will finance irrigation and seed research. In Nzangi’s words, “The Head of State has provided the means. It is now up to us to do our part,” a call for collective responsibility to make the agricultural revolution succeed. Conclusion The tractors lined up in Menkao are more than shiny machines; they represent a reversal of fortune for a nation that had forgotten its soil. Under President Tshisekedi, Congo is beginning to invest the fruits of its mineral wealth back into its fields. Mechanisation brigades, improved seeds, accessible fertilisers, and the valorisation of agronomists form the backbone of a strategy to transform agriculture from subsistence to commercial production. The stakes are high. Achieving food sovereignty will strengthen national unity and reduce dependence on imports. Revitalising rural economies will offer alternatives to young people tempted by artisanal mining or migration. And connecting agriculture with responsible mining and infrastructure reforms will ensure that the country’s natural wealth benefits its people. If Menkao becomes the template for provinces across Congo, then the slogan “revanche du sol sur le sous‑sol” will no longer be rhetoric but a lived reality. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Women football Congolese-Born Grace Geyoro Sets Record in Women’s Football Deal Grace Geyoro’s €1.65m move to London City Lionesses breaks the women’s football transfer record . Travel Guide How to Enter the Democratic Republic of Congo: Travel & Visa Guide Planning a trip to DR Congo? Here’s your guide to DRC entry rules, visa types, tariffs & tips ... . Entertainment Bioluminescence Cape Town 2025: Best Beaches, Dates & Viewing Guide Discover Cape Town’s glowing beaches in 2025, best spots, times & tips for visitors. . From Power to Prison: Baltasar Ebang Engonga Sentenced to 8 Years Equatorial Guinea’s Baltasar “Bello” Engonga was sentenced to 8 years for embezzlement . Tags Top News Top News DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo Happening Now Happening Now African Food African Food

Check your UIF claim status on UIF Online or free USSD *134*843#. Call 0800 030 007. Employee claims are no longer on uFiling. To check your UIF claim status in South Africa, start with the official UIF Online portal, dial the free USSD code *134*843# , or call the UIF call centre on 0800 030 007 . Employee benefit claims are no longer processed on uFiling . The uFiling homepage tells employees to use uifonline.labour.gov.za for UIF benefit applications. Employers still use uFiling for contributions and declarations. Need to lodge a new claim first? See XTRAfrica’s guides on UIF Online claims after the uFiling change and how to claim UIF unemployment benefits online . Official portals and contacts UIF Online — employee benefit applications and online account UIF Online login — sign in if you already registered uFiling — employer contributions (not for new employee benefit claims) Free USSD: dial *134*843# for claims/payment status and related UIF options UIF call centre: 0800 030 007 (also shown as 08000 30007 on the UIF Online site) What you need Continue Reading Full Article SOCIAL SERVICE How to Check UIF Claim Status Online By The Editorial Staff Public Services The Editorial Staff Home Comment Aug 30, 2026 Aug 30, 2026 8 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: To check your UIF claim status in South Africa, start with the official UIF Online portal, dial the free USSD code *134*843# , or call the UIF call centre on 0800 030 007 . Employee benefit claims are no longer processed on uFiling . The uFiling homepage tells employees to use uifonline.labour.gov.za for UIF benefit applications. Employers still use uFiling for contributions and declarations. Need to lodge a new claim first? See XTRAfrica’s guides on UIF Online claims after the uFiling change and how to claim UIF unemployment benefits online . Official portals and contacts UIF Online — employee benefit applications and online account UIF Online login — sign in if you already registered uFiling — employer contributions (not for new employee benefit claims) Free USSD: dial *134*843# for claims/payment status and related UIF options UIF call centre: 0800 030 007 (also shown as 08000 30007 on the UIF Online site) What you need Your South African ID number Your UIF Online username and password if you already registered Your claim or reference number if you have one A working cellphone for USSD or call-centre callbacks Screenshots or notes of any status message or error you already saw Option 1 — Check status on UIF Online Open UIF Online . Confirm the address ends in labour.gov.za. Register for an individual account if you are new, or log in with your existing details. Open your benefit or claims section after login. Read the status or message shown for your application. Keep a screenshot. If the portal asks for more documents or information, upload or follow the instruction shown — do not open a duplicate claim unless UIF tells you to. If you cannot see a clear status online, use USSD or the call centre next. Do not pay anyone who claims they can “fast-track” your claim. Option 2 — Free USSD *134*843# The Department of Employment and Labour promotes a free USSD service so clients can check UIF services without data. Dial *134*843# on any mobile phone and follow the menu for claims and payment status, employee registration, payment continuation, or general enquiries. ADVERTISEMENT Have your ID number ready. Some USSD actions need a PIN registered at a labour centre. If the menu says you must visit a labour centre, go to the office that handled your claim or the nearest one with your ID and claim details. USSD can also support payment continuation for some benefit types. That is separate from a simple status check — follow only the prompts that match what you need. Option 3 — Call the UIF call centre Call 0800 030 007. Have your ID number, claim or reference number, and employer name ready. Ask for the current status of your benefit application and write down what the agent says. If documents are missing, ask exactly what to submit and through which channel (UIF Online or a labour centre). Official contact-centre material also says you can visit the labour centre where you applied if you need a face-to-face status enquiry. uFiling vs UIF Online Employees (benefit claims): use UIF Online. uFiling’s own notice says employee benefit claims are no longer processed there. Employers (contributions): keep using uFiling to declare and pay UIF contributions. Older guides that say “check application history on uFiling” are outdated for new employee claims. Prefer UIF Online, USSD, or the call centre. Common problems I still land on uFiling. Use the UIF Online link above. Bookmark uifonline.labour.gov.za so you do not reopen the old employee-claims path by mistake. ADVERTISEMENT Login or registration fails. Reset the password on UIF Online if available, or call 0800 030 007. Do not create multiple profiles for the same ID unless UIF instructs you to. No status change for a long time. Check UIF Online again, try USSD, then call the call centre with your reference number. Visit the labour centre if the agent asks you to. Keep proof of every submission. USSD asks for a PIN I do not have. Official USSD guidance for some flows says you may need to visit your nearest labour centre to register or update a PIN before continuing. Scam warning UIF will not ask you to pay a private agent to approve or speed up a claim. Never share your UIF Online password, OTP, or banking PIN on WhatsApp, Facebook, or SMS links. Type labour.gov.za and uifonline.labour.gov.za yourself — avoid sponsored short links. Checking status through official USSD, UIF Online, or 0800 030 007 is free of agent fees. Frequently asked questions Can I still check a claim on uFiling? New employee benefit claims are directed to UIF Online. Use UIF Online, USSD, or the call centre for status. Employers stay on uFiling for contributions. 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 . Is the USSD service free? Yes. Official Department messaging describes *134*843# as a free USSD service that only needs an active mobile number. What do the portal status labels mean? Read the exact wording shown on UIF Online or given by the call centre. Do not rely on unofficial lists of status labels — ask UIF if a message is unclear. I need a new ID before I can claim or follow up. See how to replace a lost South African ID . Official sources UIF Online uFiling notice (employee claims moved) Department of Employment and Labour — Online Tools UIF call centre: 0800 030 007 Free USSD: *134*843# Checked against uFiling, UIF Online, and Department of Employment and Labour public guidance on 30 August 2026 (ET). Portal screens and call-centre scripts can change — always follow what the official site or agent shows that day. 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

The EU is mobilising €81.2m in emergency humanitarian aid for eastern DRC and the Great Lakes as Hadja Lahbib visits to push access. The European Union says it is mobilising €81.2 million in emergency humanitarian funding for people affected by the escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) , alongside a regional push for safer humanitarian access. According to initial reports by Radio Okapi , the package is aimed at vulnerable populations in the Great Lakes region, including people inside DRC, Congolese refugees in neighbouring countries, and fragile host communities particularly in Burundi as displacement and shortages strain food, water and shelter. A key next step highlighted in the reporting is the diplomatic effort to unlock humanitarian access. Radio Okapi reports that EU Commissioner Hadja Lahbib is travelling in DRC, Burundi and Rwanda , with the stated goal of engaging “all parties” to help open safe corridors for aid deliveries, including in areas controlled by armed groups. The European Commission’s humanitarian aid department (DG ECHO) says the EU funding is designed to deliver life-saving support such as food assistance, emergency health and nutrition services, water and sanitation support, shelter for displaced families, and protection services, including child protection and care for survivors of violence. It is reported that Hadja Lahbib’s itinerary includes Kinshasa, followed by Burundi (18–19 February) with a planned visit to Busuma refugee camp, before concluding in Kigali (20 February), citing comments carried by the Belgian news agency Belga. Continue Reading Full Article JUSTICE & CRIME EU donates €81.2m aid for eastern DRC crisis as Lahbib visits region By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Feb 18, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The European Union says it is mobilising €81.2 million in emergency humanitarian funding for people affected by the escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) , alongside a regional push for safer humanitarian access. According to initial reports by Radio Okapi , the package is aimed at vulnerable populations in the Great Lakes region, including people inside DRC, Congolese refugees in neighbouring countries, and fragile host communities particularly in Burundi as displacement and shortages strain food, water and shelter. ADVERTISEMENT A key next step highlighted in the reporting is the diplomatic effort to unlock humanitarian access. Radio Okapi reports that EU Commissioner Hadja Lahbib is travelling in DRC, Burundi and Rwanda , with the stated goal of engaging “all parties” to help open safe corridors for aid deliveries, including in areas controlled by armed groups. ADVERTISEMENT The European Commission’s humanitarian aid department (DG ECHO) says the EU funding is designed to deliver life-saving support such as food assistance, emergency health and nutrition services, water and sanitation support, shelter for displaced families, and protection services, including child protection and care for survivors of violence. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation . War in Eastern DRC FARDC Says It Is Thwarting M23 Advances Despite Rwandan Drone Support . War in Eastern DRC Lubutu Seeks Troop Reinforcements After Deadly Clashes . War in DR Congo Bukavu–Uvira Road Closure Leaves Nearly 1,000 Stranded . Political Parties C64 Delays Complaint Against Tshisekedi . It is reported that Hadja Lahbib’s itinerary includes Kinshasa, followed by Burundi (18–19 February) with a planned visit to Busuma refugee camp, before concluding in Kigali (20 February), citing comments carried by the Belgian news agency Belga. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation DRC opposition coalition announces nationwide protest over constitutional reform dispute . War in Eastern DRC FARDC Says It Is Thwarting M23 Advances Despite Rwandan Drone Support DRC government says army continues to repel AFC/M23 operations in North and South Kivu. . War in Eastern DRC Lubutu Seeks Troop Reinforcements After Deadly Clashes Local authorities say extra forces are needed after FARDC-Mai-Mai fighting killed six. . War in DR Congo Bukavu–Uvira Road Closure Leaves Nearly 1,000 Stranded Stranded travelers face rising costs as RN5 closure disrupts movement . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics South Africa South Africa Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo M23 Conflict Updates M23 Conflict Updates M23 Rebels M23 Rebels M23 Rebels News M23 Rebels News

Ayra Starr says Burna Boy is her top collaboration choice while discussing her second Grammy nomination in a Billboard interview. According to the source article , Nigerian Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr has identified Burna Boy as her preferred choice for a future musical collaboration. The singer made the remarks during a Billboard interview with Love Island USA personality Chelley Bissainthe, where she discussed her career growth and her nomination for the 2026 Grammy Awards. Reflecting on her journey, Ayra Starr described her latest Grammy recognition as a moment of reassurance. She explained that while her first nomination came as a surprise, the second reinforced her confidence in her path and creative direction. Ayra Starr noted that she has worked with several artists over the years and remains open to further collaborations. However, she emphasized that Burna Boy stands out as the artist she most hopes to work with in the future. The singer earned a Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for Gimme Dat , her collaboration with Wizkid released in April 2025. The nominations were announced in November 2025, ahead of the Grammy Awards ceremony scheduled for February 1, 2026. She added that the recognition has encouraged her to trust her abilities and continue pushing forward in her career. Source: Daily Post Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Ayra Starr Names Burna Boy as Top Collaboration Choice By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 1, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: According to the source article , Nigerian Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr has identified Burna Boy as her preferred choice for a future musical collaboration. The singer made the remarks during a Billboard interview with Love Island USA personality Chelley Bissainthe, where she discussed her career growth and her nomination for the 2026 Grammy Awards. ADVERTISEMENT Reflecting on her journey, Ayra Starr described her latest Grammy recognition as a moment of reassurance. She explained that while her first nomination came as a surprise, the second reinforced her confidence in her path and creative direction. Ayra Starr noted that she has worked with several artists over the years and remains open to further collaborations. However, she emphasized that Burna Boy stands out as the artist she most hopes to work with in the future. ADVERTISEMENT The singer earned a Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for Gimme Dat , her collaboration with Wizkid released in April 2025. The nominations were announced in November 2025, ahead of the Grammy Awards ceremony scheduled for February 1, 2026. She added that the recognition has encouraged her to trust her abilities and continue pushing forward in her career. 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: Daily Post ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Discover Arusha National Park, a peaceful haven near Mount Meru offering walking safaris, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and volcanic wonders. “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” John Muir Nestled just 30 minutes from Arusha town, Arusha National Park is often overshadowed by Tanzania’s more famous parks. But don’t be fooled, this "little gem" is packed with magic, solitude, and scenery you’ll never forget. From misty rainforests and crater rims to flamingo-lined lakes and Mount Meru’s dramatic silhouette, this park is perfect for travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate safari. Dominated by Mount Meru At the heart of the park is Mount Meru, Africa’s 5th-highest peak and the 3rd-tallest free-standing mountain. Once a near-twin of Kilimanjaro before a dramatic eruption 8,000 years ago, today it’s a haven for hikers and geologists alike. Its slopes are cloaked in lush rainforest, echoing with the calls of colobus monkeys and birds. The 4-day Meru hike with overnight stays at Miriakamba and Saddle huts offers an unforgettable adventure through ever-changing vegetation zones. Ngurdoto Crater – The Hidden Eden Towards the park’s southern end lies Ngurdoto Crater, a volcanic marvel surrounded by forest and grassy glades. Now open for guided hikes, it’s the perfect picnic spot, often shared with warthogs, buffalo, and the occasional elephant wandering below. Wildlife Without the Crowds Don’t expect massive game herds. Arusha National Park offers something different: close-up experiences with bushbuck, giraffe, buffalo, baboon, and hippo, plus elusive sightings of leopards. It’s the best place in Tanzania to see black-and-white colobus monkeys, often lounging in the trees or making booming calls across the canopy. Continue Reading Full Article Arusha National Park: Tanzania’s Underrated Gem of Serenity By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jun 26, 2025 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” John Muir Nestled just 30 minutes from Arusha town, Arusha National Park is often overshadowed by Tanzania’s more famous parks. But don’t be fooled, this "little gem" is packed with magic, solitude, and scenery you’ll never forget. From misty rainforests and crater rims to flamingo-lined lakes and Mount Meru’s dramatic silhouette, this park is perfect for travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate safari. Dominated by Mount Meru At the heart of the park is Mount Meru, Africa’s 5th-highest peak and the 3rd-tallest free-standing mountain. Once a near-twin of Kilimanjaro before a dramatic eruption 8,000 years ago, today it’s a haven for hikers and geologists alike. Its slopes are cloaked in lush rainforest, echoing with the calls of colobus monkeys and birds. The 4-day Meru hike with overnight stays at Miriakamba and Saddle huts offers an unforgettable adventure through ever-changing vegetation zones. ADVERTISEMENT Ngurdoto Crater – The Hidden Eden Towards the park’s southern end lies Ngurdoto Crater, a volcanic marvel surrounded by forest and grassy glades. Now open for guided hikes, it’s the perfect picnic spot, often shared with warthogs, buffalo, and the occasional elephant wandering below. Wildlife Without the Crowds Don’t expect massive game herds. Arusha National Park offers something different: close-up experiences with bushbuck, giraffe, buffalo, baboon, and hippo, plus elusive sightings of leopards. It’s the best place in Tanzania to see black-and-white colobus monkeys, often lounging in the trees or making booming calls across the canopy. Bird lovers will be in paradise, with over 450 bird species , including flamingos around the Momella Lakes, the skies are always alive. Activities for Every Explorer ADVERTISEMENT What makes Arusha National Park truly special is the variety of activities you can enjoy, all in one compact area: Game Drives : Well-marked roads make this a great all-season drive. Walking Safaris : Experience nature on foot with an armed ranger. Horseback Safaris : A silent, graceful way to explore. Canoeing : Paddle past hippos and buffalo on Momella Lake. Mount Meru Hike : A serious climb with epic views and wildlife. Getting There Just 30 minutes by road from Arusha town and about an hour from Kilimanjaro International Airport , this park is one of the easiest to reach in Tanzania. 🛏️ Where to Stay You’ll find: Public & special campsites within the park Seasonal mobile camps Mount Meru climbing huts Hotels and lodges in Arusha or just outside the park gates Whether you want starry nights or soft beds, options are plentiful. 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 Travel Guide Stone Town Travel Guide: History, Food and a Walking Route . Travel Guide Mafia Island Travel Guide: Diving, Whale Sharks and When to Go . African Culture Nyerere vs Ruaha: Choosing a Southern Tanzania Safari . African Culture Tanzania Visa and Entry Requirements: What Travellers Need . Travel Tips Getting Around Tanzania: Flights, Trains, Buses and Ferries . 🌿 Safari Ideas Because of its location, Arusha National Park makes a perfect first or last stop on your Tanzania safari circuit. After days of dusty plains, it’s a refreshing retreat into green, cool, calm. Or start here to gently ease into the rhythm of the wild. Arusha National Park might not have the name recognition of Serengeti or Ngorongoro, but that’s its strength. It offers beauty without the bustle, wildlife without the crowds, and nature at your own pace. If you're looking for a safari that soothes the soul, start here. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Travel Guide Stone Town Travel Guide: History, Food and a Walking Route Stone Town occupies the western side of Unguja, the main island in the Zanzibar archipelago . Travel Guide Mafia Island Travel Guide: Diving, Whale Sharks and When to Go Plan Mafia Island by coast and season, with diving, whale sharks, transport, fees and places to stay. . African Culture Nyerere vs Ruaha: Choosing a Southern Tanzania Safari Compare wildlife, activities, access and costs before choosing Tanzania’s southern safari park. . African Culture Tanzania Visa and Entry Requirements: What Travellers Need Check visa eligibility, passport rules, health documents and Zanzibar insurance before travel. . Tags Visit Tanzania Visit Tanzania Travel to Tanzania Travel to Tanzania

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has called on the youth of Africa to remain on the continent following a tragic shipwreck off the coast of Mauritania. The incident, which involved a migrant boat attempting to reach Spain's Canary Islands, resulted in nearly 90 deaths. The boat had departed from Niodior, on the Senegal-Gambia border, carrying 170 passengers. In a speech at Gaston Berger University in Saint Louis, Sonko emphasized that the future lies in Africa, not in migration. "The future of the world is in Africa," he stated. He urged young people to recognize the continent's potential for significant growth and progress, asserting that Africa should drive global growth over the next 50 years. Sonko stressed that Africans must lead this development, rejecting the exploitation of natural resources by external entities. Three Senegalese NGOs have called on the Dakar authorities to provide better opportunities for young people to deter them from seeking dangerous migration routes. The Senegalese Navy has increased efforts to intercept migrant boats and rescue those in distress, with recent operations saving hundreds of people. The Atlantic migration route remains perilous due to strong currents and overcrowded, often unseaworthy boats. Despite the risks, it is increasingly used by migrants due to heightened surveillance in the Mediterranean. Sonko's appeal underscores the need for internal development and opportunities to prevent such tragedies and harness Africa's potential. By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jul 7, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has called on the youth of Africa to remain on the continent following a tragic shipwreck off the coast of Mauritania. The incident, which involved a migrant boat attempting to reach Spain's Canary Islands, resulted in nearly 90 deaths. The boat had departed from Niodior, on the Senegal-Gambia border, carrying 170 passengers. In a speech at Gaston Berger University in Saint Louis, Sonko emphasized that the future lies in Africa, not in migration. ADVERTISEMENT "The future of the world is in Africa," he stated. He urged young people to recognize the continent's potential for significant growth and progress, asserting that Africa should drive global growth over the next 50 years. Sonko stressed that Africans must lead this development, rejecting the exploitation of natural resources by external entities. Three Senegalese NGOs have called on the Dakar authorities to provide better opportunities for young people to deter them from seeking dangerous migration routes. The Senegalese Navy has increased efforts to intercept migrant boats and rescue those in distress, with recent operations saving hundreds of people. ADVERTISEMENT The Atlantic migration route remains perilous due to strong currents and overcrowded, often unseaworthy boats. Despite the risks, it is increasingly used by migrants due to heightened surveillance in the Mediterranean. Sonko's appeal underscores the need for internal development and opportunities to prevent such tragedies and harness Africa's potential. 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

All you need to know about UCT housing for 2025 – types, fees, policies, dates, and life tips to thrive in South Africa’s top university residences. Thinking about living on campus at the University of Cape Town (UCT) ? Whether you’re a new student, a returning learner, or a postgraduate, this guide breaks down everything about student housing, residence life, fees, and key policies for 2025. Welcome to UCT Residences UCT welcomes thousands of students each year to its residences. Housing is limited, so understanding the process early helps you secure your spot. 🔑 Quick Fact: In 2025, only about 8,400 students out of UCT’s 28,000+ student population will live in campus housing. Types of UCT Residences 🔹 1st Tier Residences (Mainly for undergraduates) Includes catered halls like: Avenue Road Residence Fuller Hall Tugwell Hall Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 27, 2025 May 15, 2026 7 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Thinking about living on campus at the University of Cape Town (UCT) ? Whether you’re a new student, a returning learner, or a postgraduate, this guide breaks down everything about student housing, residence life, fees, and key policies for 2025. Welcome to UCT Residences UCT welcomes thousands of students each year to its residences. Housing is limited, so understanding the process early helps you secure your spot. 🔑 Quick Fact: In 2025, only about 8,400 students out of UCT’s 28,000+ student population will live in campus housing. Types of UCT Residences 🔹 1st Tier Residences (Mainly for undergraduates) Includes catered halls like: Avenue Road Residence Fuller Hall Tugwell Hall Kopano Graça Machel Hall 👉 Best for: First-year students needing full support, meals, and an easy transition into university life. 🔹 2nd Tier Residences (Senior catering or self-catering) For senior undergraduates and some postgraduates: Groote Schuur Residence (catered) Forest Hill, Liesbeeck Gardens, Obz Square (self-catering) 👉 Best for: Students wanting more independence with meal options or self-catering. ADVERTISEMENT 🔹 3rd Tier Residences (Postgraduates & families) Self-catering flats and houses like: TB Davie Court Dullah Omar Hall Obz Square Postgrad Rondeberg Flats 👉 Best for: Postgraduate students, mature learners, or families. Key Housing Policies You Must Know ✅ Eligibility for First-Year Undergraduates Financial Aid recipients are prioritised. Minors (under 18 on Feb 1) are prioritised. Top achievers with 540+ APS points are prioritised. Medical and special needs are considered. ✅ Eligibility for Postgraduates Limited spots; priority given to Black South African honours students . Other PG students often arrange private housing. How Housing Offers Work Apply via UCT online applications by 31 July . Receive an Offer: Specified offer: Assigned a specific building. Unspecified offer: Placement confirmed later. Transit offer: Temporary dormitory-style housing for up to 6 weeks while permanent placement is finalised. Accept by Due Date: Or risk losing your spot. Sign In: On your assigned date, to officially take your room. 🔄 The Waiting List New Applicants: If you don’t get an offer, your name goes on the waiting list, but there is no guarantee of placement. Always plan for off-campus options, too. Returning Students: Must inform SHAAS to remain on the waiting list if housing isn’t secured. Late Arrivals If you arrive after the sign-in deadline , submit a late arrival notice on housingonline.uct.ac.za . Your room is only held for five days after the final sign-in date. ADVERTISEMENT Housing Fees and Financial Liabilities Annual Fees: Vary based on residence type. Example: ~R41,000 for catered, ~R27,500 for self-catering (subject to 2025 finalisation). Initial Payment: Due 31 January 2025 . Meal Plans: Flexible options, but you can’t change plans mid-semester after the cutoff date. Note: Non-payment risks de-registration . Always keep fee schedules updated with the Fees Office. Housekeeping & Room Essentials ✔ Rooms come with a bed, wardrobe, desk, chair, and curtains . ✔ Bring your own: Bedding, towels, kitchenware (for self-catering). ✔ Laundry: Central facilities available. ✔ Housekeeping: Public areas are cleaned daily in junior/senior residences. Self-catering units require full self-cleaning. 🛑 Important Rules to Remember No subletting or unauthorised roommates. First-year undergrads cannot park cars on campus. No pets allowed. Rooms may be inspected for health, safety, or policy compliance. Cancellation after signing incurs charges and possible penalties. Free Shuttle Service: Jammie Shuttle The Jammie Shuttle offers free transport between residences, campuses, and public transit hubs – including late-night and holiday services. Special hire options (like airport transfers) are also available. 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 Students Portal NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements . Students Guide NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements . Students Guide NSFAS 2026 Application Status: How to Check . Education Second Chance Matric Programme: How to Register . Students Portal NSFAS Supporting Documents: How to Upload Forms . 📆 Key 2025 Housing Dates Event Date Health Science Residences open 9 Jan 2025 All other residences are open 1 Feb 2025 Final sign-in date 4 Feb 2025 Mid-year break (1st Tier closes) 25 Jun 2025 Second semester starts (1st Tier reopens) 24 Jul 2025 Residences close (1st & 2nd Tier) 23 Nov 2025 Health Science & Leased Residences close 29 Nov 2025 3rd Tier residences close 13 Dec 2025 Vacation Accommodation Students needing housing during vacation for academic reasons must apply online with proof (exam timetable or faculty letter). Personal stays require upfront payment at higher rates. Off-Campus Housing Support UCT’s Off-Campus Student Accommodation Services (OCSAS) provides listings of approved private rentals but does not manage contracts. Always verify before signing leases. 📞 Useful Contacts Student Housing Admissions: res@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-2977 Vacation Accommodation: vacation@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-1049 International Office: iapo@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-2822 Fees Office: fnd-feeenq@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-1704 Financial Aid: sfa-finaid@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-3545 🔗 Full contact list on UCT Student Housing Final Words Living on campus at UCT isn’t just about having a bed near your classes – it’s about building lifelong friendships, engaging in diverse cultures, and growing as a global citizen. “Your residence becomes your home away from home. Respect it, contribute to it, and it will shape your university journey.” ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Students Portal NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements NSFAS Trimester 3 applications close today, 23 August 2026. Check requirements and apply through . Students Guide NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements Apply for NSFAS TVET Trimester 3 funding by 23 August 2026. Check eligibility, documents, . Students Guide NSFAS 2026 Application Status: How to Check Check your NSFAS 2026 application status online, understand each result, upload missing . Education Second Chance Matric Programme: How to Register Learn who qualifies for the Second Chance Matric Programme, Etc... . Tags South Africans Students Portal South Africans Students Portal UCT student portal UCT student portal

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of Nigeria, addresses the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2023 at U.N.headquarters. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II) (Frank Franklin II / Associated Press) ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Assuming you pay attention to the African chiefs tending to the U.N. General Gathering this year, the message is unequivocal and consistent: The landmass is finished being a casualty of a post-The Second Great War request. It is a worldwide power in itself and should be collaborated with — not sidelined. The greater part of Africa has logged a long period of freedom — about 60 years — and the landmass of more than 1.3 billion individuals is more aware of the difficulties smothering its turn of events. There's likewise another intensity that accompanies the African Association's G20 seat. We as Africa have come to the world, not to request aid, good cause or presents, however to work with the remainder of the worldwide local area and give each person in this world a fair opportunity of safety and thriving," Kenyan President William Ruto said. As of late, Africa has been clear about its ability to turn into a worldwide power, from endeavors to handle environmental change at home —, for example, the existential danger of environmental change overturning lives and vocations in the district, regardless of Africa contributing by a wide margin the least to an Earth-wide temperature boost — to assisting with cultivating harmony somewhere else, as in Russia and Ukraine. In his location, Ghana's Leader Nana Akufo-Addo put Africa's present-day challenges on "authentic shameful acts" and called for compensations for the slave exchange. President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa said the mainland is ready to "recapture its situation as a site of human advancement" in spite of managing a "tradition of double-dealing and oppression." Nigeria's chief, Bola Tinubu, encouraged his companions to see the locale not as "an issue to be stayed away from" but rather as "genuine companions and accomplices. "Africa isn't anything not exactly the way in to the world's future," said Tinubu, who drives a nation that, by 2050, is estimate to turn into the third generally crowded on the planet. With the biggest coalition of nations at the Unified Countries, it is justifiable that African chiefs progressively request a greater voice in multilateral organizations, said Murithi Mutiga, program chief for Africa at the Emergency Gathering. "Those calls will develop particularly when the mainland is being sought by enormous powers in the midst of developing international contest." Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 28, 2019 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of Nigeria, addresses the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2023 at U.N.headquarters. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II) (Frank Franklin II / Associated Press) ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Assuming you pay attention to the African chiefs tending to the U.N. General Gathering this year, the message is unequivocal and consistent: The landmass is finished being a casualty of a post-The Second Great War request. It is a worldwide power in itself and should be collaborated with — not sidelined. ADVERTISEMENT The greater part of Africa has logged a long period of freedom — about 60 years — and the landmass of more than 1.3 billion individuals is more aware of the difficulties smothering its turn of events. There's likewise another intensity that accompanies the African Association's G20 seat. We as Africa have come to the world, not to request aid, good cause or presents, however to work with the remainder of the worldwide local area and give each person in this world a fair opportunity of safety and thriving," Kenyan President William Ruto said. ADVERTISEMENT As of late, Africa has been clear about its ability to turn into a worldwide power, from endeavors to handle environmental change at home —, for example, the existential danger of environmental change overturning lives and vocations in the district, regardless of Africa contributing by a wide margin the least to an Earth-wide temperature boost — to assisting with cultivating harmony somewhere else, as in Russia and Ukraine. In his location, Ghana's Leader Nana Akufo-Addo put Africa's present-day challenges on "authentic shameful acts" and called for compensations for the slave exchange. President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa said the mainland is ready to "recapture its situation as a site of human advancement" in spite of managing a "tradition of double-dealing and oppression." Nigeria's chief, Bola Tinubu, encouraged his companions to see the locale not as "an issue to be stayed away from" but rather as "genuine companions and accomplices. 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 "Africa isn't anything not exactly the way in to the world's future," said Tinubu, who drives a nation that, by 2050, is estimate to turn into the third generally crowded on the planet. With the biggest coalition of nations at the Unified Countries, it is justifiable that African chiefs progressively request a greater voice in multilateral organizations, said Murithi Mutiga, program chief for Africa at the Emergency Gathering. "Those calls will develop particularly when the mainland is being sought by enormous powers in the midst of developing international contest." ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

This Tuesday, May 13, President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo made a special visit to the Société de Production des Permis de Conduire (SPC) in Gombe, Kinshasa DR Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi personally tested the new digital driver’s license system during a visit to the SPC center in Gombe. This Tuesday, May 13, President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo made a special visit to the Société de Production des Permis de Conduire (SPC) in Gombe, Kinshasa. The SPC is a private partner working with CONADEP, the National Commission in charge of driver’s licenses. Tshisekedi came to understand how the new biometric digital driver’s license is issued, and he even got one himself. 🔍 A New Process That’s Modern and Transparent Welcomed by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, Transport Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba, and SPC Director General, the President was shown how the modern one-stop shop works. Each applicant: First goes to an “observation room” to choose the vehicle type. Then pays $18 at a commercial bank counter. Takes a 20-question theoretical exam on a computer (30 seconds per question). If they score at least 12 correct, they move on to a driving simulator for the practical test. Continue Reading Full Article DRC Launches Secure Biometric Driver License System By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 18, 2025 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: DR Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi personally tested the new digital driver’s license system during a visit to the SPC center in Gombe. This Tuesday, May 13, President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo made a special visit to the Société de Production des Permis de Conduire (SPC) in Gombe, Kinshasa. The SPC is a private partner working with CONADEP, the National Commission in charge of driver’s licenses. Tshisekedi came to understand how the new biometric digital driver’s license is issued, and he even got one himself. ADVERTISEMENT 🔍 A New Process That’s Modern and Transparent Welcomed by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, Transport Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba, and SPC Director General, the President was shown how the modern one-stop shop works. Each applicant: First goes to an “observation room” to choose the vehicle type. Then pays $18 at a commercial bank counter. Takes a 20-question theoretical exam on a computer (30 seconds per question). If they score at least 12 correct, they move on to a driving simulator for the practical test. Once both steps are passed, the driver is informed by email and receives the new digital license within 48 hours. ADVERTISEMENT Secure, Fast, and International Standard “The new biometric driver’s license is highly secure and meets international standards,” Nicolas Nkane, President of the License Issuing Commission According to SPC officials, this upgrade isn’t just about going digital, it’s about road safety. They believe the new process: Reduces fraud and fake licenses Ensures real driving skills Improves traffic safety by reducing accidents caused by human error 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 . Presidential Participation in the Process During his visit, President Tshisekedi chose to personally go through the entire licensing procedure and was issued a biometric driver’s license at the end of the process. His involvement offered a practical demonstration of how the new system functions for the public. SPC officials noted that this rollout could help introduce a more streamlined and secure approach to issuing driver’s licenses across the country. The shift to biometric and digital licenses reflects Congo’s intention to modernize public services and align with international practices. While still early, such reforms, if consistently implemented may contribute to better governance, improved road safety, and enhanced service delivery. 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 Technology & Innovation Technology & Innovation

This analysis examines how Tshisekedi leveraged U.S., UN, and economic tools to narrow Rwanda’s regional influence Introduction: A Shifting Landscape in the Great Lakes The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have long been locked in a cycle of insecurity. Since the late‐1990s Rwandan troops have justified incursions into eastern Congo as necessary to pursue ex‑Rwandan Hutu militias, while Congolese leaders accuse Kigali of sponsoring rebellions to extract minerals. President Félix Tshisekedi’s term has coincided with the resurgence of the March 23 Movement (M23), an armed group originally made up of Congolese Tutsi rebels. M23’s battlefield gains in 2024-25, widely attributed by United Nations experts to systematic support from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and advanced Rwandan military technology , brought Goma, Bukavu, and Uvira to the brink. Facing a stronger Rwanda‑backed insurgency, Kinshasa has chosen diplomatic pressure and global partnerships rather than direct talks with M23. This article examines how Tshisekedi has narrowed Rwanda’s diplomatic space – through U.S. and UN pressure, refusal to legitimise rebels, soft‑power contests and economic realignment – and asks whether this strategy is approaching an endgame. U.S. Policy Recalibration: Sanctions and Warnings Washington has long maintained security cooperation with Rwanda while funding peacekeeping in the DRC. In recent years, however, U.S. policy has shifted. In 2023, Rwanda was placed on the Child Soldiers Prevention Act list because the United States concluded that Kigali supported M23, which recruits child soldiers, triggering restrictions on security assistance . Over the past two years, the U.S. has imposed targeted sanctions on M23 commanders and Rwandan officials, including M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma (December 2023) and deputy commander Bernard Byamungu (August 2023). In February 2025, the State Department went further, sanctioning Rwanda’s minister of state for regional integration, James Kabareb,e and M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka. The statement described M23 as “Rwanda‑backed” and noted that the group’s offensives had seized territory and threatened civilians; Washington called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces and end support for M23 . U.S. diplomats reinforced these measures at the United Nations. In October 2023, the U.S. representative reminded the Security Council that Rwanda had been listed under the Child Soldiers Prevention Act and urged Kigali to stop supporting M23 . After M23’s lightning offensive on the strategic city of Uvira in December 2025, U.S. ambassador Mike Waltz warned that Kigali was violating a U.S.‑brokered peace agreement, noting that more than 400 civilians had been killed and that Rwandan special forces were in Uvira; he vowed that the United States would use “the tools at our disposal” to hold spoilers accountable. Such remarks signalled that Washington was prepared to expand sanctions or curb aid if Rwanda continued to flout ceasefire commitments. This policy recalibration contrasts with earlier U.S. ambivalence and undercuts Rwanda’s image as a reliable security partner. UN Scrutiny and Resolutions The UN Security Council has increasingly framed the conflict around sovereignty rather than rebel grievances. Resolution 2773, adopted in February 2025, condemned M23’s offensives, demanded that the group cease hostilities and withdraw from occupied areas, called on the RDF to immediately withdraw from Congolese territory without preconditions, and urged Kinshasa and Kigali to resume diplomatic talks . By explicitly naming Rwanda’s support to M23, the resolution shifted the narrative from a “Tutsi rebel grievance” to an inter‑state violation of sovereignty. Meanwhile, the UN Group of Experts reports have provided detailed evidence of Rwanda’s involvement. The 2024 mid‑term report concluded that a ceasefire failed because the M23‑AFC coalition was “ systematically supported by the Rwanda Defence Force”, which provided advanced military technology to ensure the rebels’ dominance. The report documented the capture of the coltan‑rich Rubaya mine and the export of 150 tonnes of coltan to Rwanda, highlighting how the insurgency feeds regional smuggling networks. It also noted that a proposed concept of operations (CONOPS) to neutralise the FDLR and disengage Rwandan forces faltered because of mutual mistrust between Kinshasa and Kigali. Such findings bolstered Tshisekedi’s diplomatic arguments that Rwanda, not M23 grievances, is the engine of instability. Continue Reading Full Article | ANALYSIS & OPINION The Endgame? How Tshisekedi Has Narrowed Kagame’s Diplomatic Space By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Feb 18, 2026 May 15, 2026 9 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Introduction: A Shifting Landscape in the Great Lakes The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have long been locked in a cycle of insecurity. Since the late‐1990s Rwandan troops have justified incursions into eastern Congo as necessary to pursue ex‑Rwandan Hutu militias, while Congolese leaders accuse Kigali of sponsoring rebellions to extract minerals. President Félix Tshisekedi’s term has coincided with the resurgence of the March 23 Movement (M23), an armed group originally made up of Congolese Tutsi rebels. M23’s battlefield gains in 2024-25, widely attributed by United Nations experts to systematic support from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and advanced Rwandan military technology , brought Goma, Bukavu, and Uvira to the brink. Facing a stronger Rwanda‑backed insurgency, Kinshasa has chosen diplomatic pressure and global partnerships rather than direct talks with M23. This article examines how Tshisekedi has narrowed Rwanda’s diplomatic space – through U.S. and UN pressure, refusal to legitimise rebels, soft‑power contests and economic realignment – and asks whether this strategy is approaching an endgame. U.S. Policy Recalibration: Sanctions and Warnings Washington has long maintained security cooperation with Rwanda while funding peacekeeping in the DRC. In recent years, however, U.S. policy has shifted. In 2023, Rwanda was placed on the Child Soldiers Prevention Act list because the United States concluded that Kigali supported M23, which recruits child soldiers, triggering restrictions on security assistance . Over the past two years, the U.S. has imposed targeted sanctions on M23 commanders and Rwandan officials, including M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma (December 2023) and deputy commander Bernard Byamungu (August 2023). In February 2025, the State Department went further, sanctioning Rwanda’s minister of state for regional integration, James Kabareb,e and M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka. The statement described M23 as “Rwanda‑backed” and noted that the group’s offensives had seized territory and threatened civilians; Washington called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces and end support for M23 . U.S. diplomats reinforced these measures at the United Nations. In October 2023, the U.S. representative reminded the Security Council that Rwanda had been listed under the Child Soldiers Prevention Act and urged Kigali to stop supporting M23 . After M23’s lightning offensive on the strategic city of Uvira in December 2025, U.S. ambassador Mike Waltz warned that Kigali was violating a U.S.‑brokered peace agreement, noting that more than 400 civilians had been killed and that Rwandan special forces were in Uvira; he vowed that the United States would use “the tools at our disposal” to hold spoilers accountable. Such remarks signalled that Washington was prepared to expand sanctions or curb aid if Rwanda continued to flout ceasefire commitments. This policy recalibration contrasts with earlier U.S. ambivalence and undercuts Rwanda’s image as a reliable security partner. ADVERTISEMENT UN Scrutiny and Resolutions The UN Security Council has increasingly framed the conflict around sovereignty rather than rebel grievances. Resolution 2773, adopted in February 2025, condemned M23’s offensives, demanded that the group cease hostilities and withdraw from occupied areas, called on the RDF to immediately withdraw from Congolese territory without preconditions, and urged Kinshasa and Kigali to resume diplomatic talks . By explicitly naming Rwanda’s support to M23, the resolution shifted the narrative from a “Tutsi rebel grievance” to an inter‑state violation of sovereignty. Meanwhile, the UN Group of Experts reports have provided detailed evidence of Rwanda’s involvement. The 2024 mid‑term report concluded that a ceasefire failed because the M23‑AFC coalition was “ systematically supported by the Rwanda Defence Force”, which provided advanced military technology to ensure the rebels’ dominance. The report documented the capture of the coltan‑rich Rubaya mine and the export of 150 tonnes of coltan to Rwanda, highlighting how the insurgency feeds regional smuggling networks. It also noted that a proposed concept of operations (CONOPS) to neutralise the FDLR and disengage Rwandan forces faltered because of mutual mistrust between Kinshasa and Kigali. Such findings bolstered Tshisekedi’s diplomatic arguments that Rwanda, not M23 grievances, is the engine of instability. Narrative Shift: M23 as Proxy, Not Partner Tshisekedi’s government has consistently refused to treat M23 as a legitimate interlocutor. While his predecessor Joseph Kabila negotiated the 2013 Nairobi Accord with M23, Tshisekedi declined to meet rebel leaders during the 2023–25 offensives. U.S. and UN statements echoed this posture, characterising M23 as a proxy. For instance, an official U.S. fact‑check noted that the United States had sanctioned M23 and urged Rwanda to end its support. In the mid‑term UN report, analysts described the coalition’s success as a direct result of RDF support . By framing M23 as Rwanda’s instrument rather than as a Congolese movement, Kinshasa and its partners delegitimised calls for political concessions. Rwandan officials nevertheless sought to justify cooperation with M23 on security grounds. In January 2026, Rwanda’s ambassador to Washington, Mathilde Mukantabana, acknowledged that Kigali engages in “security coordination” with the M23‑aligned Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC). She said this cooperation is meant to protect vulnerable Tutsi communities, is time‑bound and conditional, and will cease when the FDLR is neutralised. She emphasised that Rwanda does not seek to dictate DRC politics and would draw down its defensive measures once Congolese authorities address cross‑border threats. While this admission clarifies Rwanda’s rationale, it also reinforces the narrative of Rwanda’s direct involvement and gives Kinshasa grounds to insist on withdrawal. ADVERTISEMENT Refusal to Legitimize M23 Diplomatically The Washington Peace Agreement , signed in June 2025 under U.S. mediation, formalised Tshisekedi’s refusal to engage M23 as an equal. The agreement reaffirmed mutual respect for sovereignty and explicitly prohibited state support to armed groups, committing DRC and Rwanda not to conduct or condone military incursions into each other’s territory. It also endorsed a joint security coordination mechanism to implement the CONOPS for FDLR neutralisation and Rwandan disengagement, but importantly, it did not include M23 representatives. Subsequent meetings of the joint mechanism in Washington reviewed progress and emphasised the implementation of the CONOPS to neutralise the FDLR and lift Rwanda’s defensive measures. By sidelining M23, the agreement signalled that the conflict must be resolved through state‑to‑state arrangements rather than through negotiations with rebels. In December 2025, M23 captured Uvira with significant Rwandan military support, then withdrew after U.S. pressure. Analysts described the offensive as a breach of the Washington Accords and noted that the UN assessed that Rwanda maintained command and control over M23 operations. U.S. officials threatened further sanctions, and the episode underscored the fragility of the peace mechanism. Tshisekedi’s insistence that M23 be excluded from political talks remains controversial; however, the siege of Uvira and the high civilian death toll (over 400 people) make it unlikely that Kinshasa will alter its stance. Soft‑Power Contest: Francophonie Leadership Diplomatic pressure has also extended to cultural institutions. In February 2026, the DRC announced it would field a candidate to challenge Rwandan incumbent Louise Mushikiwabo for the secretary‑general position at the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). The move signalled Kinshasa’s bid to contest Rwanda’s soft‑power influence : Congolese officials criticised the paradox of an English‑speaking Commonwealth member leading the French‑language organisation and argued that the DRC, with its large francophone population, should head the OIF. Kinshasa had even considered leaving the OIF but opted instead to stay and lobby for leadership. By targeting Rwanda’s diplomatic prestige, Tshisekedi is widening the field of confrontation beyond the battlefield. 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 Jobs and Employment Kyerwa District Opens 8 Government Jobs — Form IV Eligible . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . Visa and Entry Updates US B1/B2 Visa Revocations: What Africans Need to Know . Economic Realignment: Minerals and the Lobito Corridor Another pillar of Tshisekedi’s strategy is to deepen partnerships that bypass Rwanda’s informal mineral networks. In December 2025, the DRC andthe United States signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement to cooperate on security, critical minerals, and infrastructure. The accord identifies the Sakania–Lobito Corridor – a rail corridor linking the DRC’s copperbelt to Angola’s Atlantic port – as a priority project and commits to increasing U.S. private investment while strengthening governance in Congo’s mining sector. It aims to ensure responsible mining and local value addition so that U.S. companies gain long‑term access to critical minerals. The inaugural meeting of the partnership’s Joint Steering Committee in February 2026 designated strategic mineral assets and promised preferential access for U.S. firms. Participants underscored that peace and security are prerequisites and encouraged private investment to accelerate the Sakania–Lobito corridor. A report by the Atlantic Council notes that the Lobito Corridor has already connected Zambia and the DRC to Angola’s port and demonstrates how collaborative partnerships can unlock mineral wealth and promote regional integration. By aligning with U.S. and international investors, Kinshasa seeks to reduce reliance on supply chains that pass through Rwanda and to build leverage in diplomatic disputes. Uvira Incident and Conditional Diplomacy The Uvira offensive illustrates both the risks and the efficacy of Tshisekedi’s approach. M23’s capture of Uvira triggered fierce U.S. condemnation and threatened to derail the Washington Accords. The Guardian reported that the offensive left more than 400 people dead and that Rwandan special forces were present in the city; ambassador Waltz warned that Rwanda risked drawing the region into a broader war. Under U.S. pressure, M23 withdrew within days . Yet the incident showed that the peace mechanism still allows Rwanda to calibrate violence. Rwanda’s ambassador later justified “security coordination” with M23 as a defence against genocidal threats and insisted that coordination would end once the FDLR is dismantled. This conditional diplomacy – linking Rwanda’s disengagement to DRC’s progress against the FDLR – is built into the Washington Accord’s CONOPS. Tshisekedi must therefore balance pressure on Rwanda with credible steps to address the FDLR and other Congolese militias, lest Kigali invoke security clauses to prolong its presence. Conclusion: An Endgame By leveraging U.S. sanctions, UN resolutions, and new economic partnerships, Tshisekedi has narrowed Rwanda’s diplomatic and economic manoeuvring space. He has re‑framed M23 not as a legitimate Tutsi movement but as a Rwandan proxy; refused direct talks with rebels; challenged Rwanda’s leadership in francophone institutions; and aligned with Washington on infrastructure and mineral projects that skirt Rwandan transit routes. These moves have yielded tangible results: U.S. sanctions have targeted Rwandan officials, UN resolutions now name Rwanda as a spoiler, and M23’s withdrawal from Uvira demonstrates the leverage of coordinated pressure. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Jobs and Employment Kyerwa District Opens 8 Government Jobs — Form IV Eligible Kyerwa District Council has 8 Tanzania government jobs for secretaries and drivers. See qualifications, . 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 . 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 Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . Tags Featured News Featured News DR.Congo DR.Congo Paul Kagame Paul Kagame Felix Tshisekedi Felix Tshisekedi

South Africa signed a China partnership framework as it seeks duty-free access and export growth amid a tariff dispute with the U.S. South Africa is accelerating trade talks with China as it looks to protect export earnings and widen market access at a moment of heightened trade uncertainty with the United States, a key destination for South African goods. The government says a new framework signed in Beijing is designed to move negotiations toward duty-free access for more South African exports into the Chinese market. At the center of the push is a tariff shock from Washington. South Africa’s trade ministry has said U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 30% tariff on South African exports to the United States in August, raising costs for South African producers trying to compete in one of their most important markets. With the U.S. described as South Africa’s second-largest bilateral trading partner after China, Pretoria is seeking to avoid over-reliance on any single export route while keeping overall export volumes growing. The immediate step is procedural but significant. South Africa says Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau and China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao signed a “Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Prosperity,” which South Africa describes as a platform for negotiating improved access to China. Reuters reported that the framework is expected to be followed by an “Early Harvest Agreement” by the end of March 2026 intended to deliver concrete gains sooner, including duty-free access for South African exports. That “early harvest” approach matters because it signals urgency: rather than waiting for a comprehensive trade agreement that could take much longer to negotiate, Pretoria is aiming for near-term measures that can quickly reduce tariff barriers and give exporters clearer visibility. South Africa’s push also lines up with a broader trade signal from Beijing. China has said it would eliminate tariffs applied to African states with which it has diplomatic relations an announcement South Africa is positioning to benefit from as it tries to place more of its products competitively in China’s market. Export diversification, with sectors already in focus South Africa’s trade ministry has pointed to mining and agriculture as sectors that stand to gain from deeper trade ties with China, alongside wider ambitions to draw investment. A South African business case is implicit here: China is already a major buyer of commodity exports and a large consumer market; lowering border costs could make it easier for South African firms especially in resource-linked and farm-linked value chains to expand volumes or move into additional product lines. Beijing, for its part, has invited South Africa to an event promoting investment opportunities in South Africa’s steel industry, That invitation underscores how the current trade push is not only about exports, but also about investment flows and industrial partnerships areas where China already plays a substantial role across the continent. Even as it pursues market access, Pretoria is also signalling caution. Tau said South Africa would negotiate safeguards to protect the country’s industrial capacity, indicating the government wants the upside of improved access to China without exposing sensitive domestic industries to new competitive shocks. That balancing act is familiar in South African trade policy: grow exports and attract investment, while managing local manufacturing pressures and employment risks especially when global tariff regimes are becoming less predictable. Continue Reading Full Article ECONOMIC REPORTS Why South Africa Is Pushing a China Trade Deal Now By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Feb 6, 2026 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: South Africa is accelerating trade talks with China as it looks to protect export earnings and widen market access at a moment of heightened trade uncertainty with the United States, a key destination for South African goods. The government says a new framework signed in Beijing is designed to move negotiations toward duty-free access for more South African exports into the Chinese market. At the center of the push is a tariff shock from Washington. South Africa’s trade ministry has said U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 30% tariff on South African exports to the United States in August, raising costs for South African producers trying to compete in one of their most important markets. With the U.S. described as South Africa’s second-largest bilateral trading partner after China, Pretoria is seeking to avoid over-reliance on any single export route while keeping overall export volumes growing. The immediate step is procedural but significant. South Africa says Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau and China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao signed a “Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Prosperity,” which South Africa describes as a platform for negotiating improved access to China. Reuters reported that the framework is expected to be followed by an “Early Harvest Agreement” by the end of March 2026 intended to deliver concrete gains sooner, including duty-free access for South African exports. That “early harvest” approach matters because it signals urgency: rather than waiting for a comprehensive trade agreement that could take much longer to negotiate, Pretoria is aiming for near-term measures that can quickly reduce tariff barriers and give exporters clearer visibility. ADVERTISEMENT South Africa’s push also lines up with a broader trade signal from Beijing. China has said it would eliminate tariffs applied to African states with which it has diplomatic relations an announcement South Africa is positioning to benefit from as it tries to place more of its products competitively in China’s market. Export diversification, with sectors already in focus South Africa’s trade ministry has pointed to mining and agriculture as sectors that stand to gain from deeper trade ties with China, alongside wider ambitions to draw investment. A South African business case is implicit here: China is already a major buyer of commodity exports and a large consumer market; lowering border costs could make it easier for South African firms especially in resource-linked and farm-linked value chains to expand volumes or move into additional product lines. ADVERTISEMENT Beijing, for its part, has invited South Africa to an event promoting investment opportunities in South Africa’s steel industry, That invitation underscores how the current trade push is not only about exports, but also about investment flows and industrial partnerships areas where China already plays a substantial role across the continent. Even as it pursues market access, Pretoria is also signalling caution. Tau said South Africa would negotiate safeguards to protect the country’s industrial capacity, indicating the government wants the upside of improved access to China without exposing sensitive domestic industries to new competitive shocks. That balancing act is familiar in South African trade policy: grow exports and attract investment, while managing local manufacturing pressures and employment risks especially when global tariff regimes are becoming less predictable. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Justice & Crime Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu Charged With Treason . Jobs and Employment How to Apply for SAPS Jobs Online in 2026 . Tax and Revenue SARS Auto Assessment 2026: How to Check and What to Do . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . The regional backdrop: others are moving, too South Africa is not the only country adjusting its China strategy. Kenya announced a preliminary trade deal with China last month, as reported by Reuters, reflecting a broader African interest in securing improved access to China’s market where available. What to watch next The key date on the calendar is end-March 2026, when South Africa says the “Early Harvest Agreement” is expected. If concluded as planned, that would move the story from framework-level diplomacy to measurable trade terms starting with which products qualify for duty-free treatment and what safeguards South Africa includes. Source: Reuters ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu Charged With Treason Lawyers confirm formal charges after the opposition leaders were questioned and detained in Lusaka. . Jobs and Employment How to Apply for SAPS Jobs Online in 2026 Use the official SAPS e-Recruitment portal to register, complete your profile, and apply. . Tax and Revenue SARS Auto Assessment 2026: How to Check and What to Do Check if SARS auto-assessed you, review the ITA34, and fix errors before the deadline. . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Tags South Africa South Africa South Africa News South Africa News African Union African Union