Bullet has urged TGMA organisers to bring back Shatta Wale, saying his presence increases fan engagement. RuffTown Records founder Bullet has called on organisers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) to reinstate dancehall artist Shatta Wale to the award scheme. Speaking during an interview, Bullet said Shatta Wale’s participation in events consistently brings excitement, competition and increased public interest. “I think they should bring back Shatta Wale. If only they are willing to and would listen to me, they should bring him back,” he said. According to Bullet, the artist’s fanbase plays a major role in creating energy and engagement at entertainment events. “They should bring him back to make it more fun because, after all, he is still a Ghanaian musician, so they should talk things out with him and bring him back,” he stated during an interview on OKAY FM. Bullet added that healthy competition within the music industry helps improve entertainment value and audience participation. “I do not care if anybody disagrees, but I am saying what I also think. We all need competition, and I know when SM is involved in something, no doubt it makes it fun,” he added. Shatta Wale’s relationship with the TGMA has remained strained since the widely publicised incident involving fellow dancehall artist Stonebwoy during the 2019 edition of the awards. The altercation occurred after Stonebwoy was announced winner of the Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year category. A confrontation between members of both camps caused disruption at the venue, while Stonebwoy briefly displayed a firearm on stage, leading to panic among attendees. Both artists were later arrested and granted bail following the incident, which remains one of the most controversial moments in the history of the TGMA. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Bullet Calls for Shatta Wale’s Return to TGMA By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment May 14, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: RuffTown Records founder Bullet has called on organisers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) to reinstate dancehall artist Shatta Wale to the award scheme. Speaking during an interview, Bullet said Shatta Wale’s participation in events consistently brings excitement, competition and increased public interest. “I think they should bring back Shatta Wale. If only they are willing to and would listen to me, they should bring him back,” he said. According to Bullet, the artist’s fanbase plays a major role in creating energy and engagement at entertainment events. ADVERTISEMENT “They should bring him back to make it more fun because, after all, he is still a Ghanaian musician, so they should talk things out with him and bring him back,” he stated during an interview on OKAY FM. Bullet added that healthy competition within the music industry helps improve entertainment value and audience participation. “I do not care if anybody disagrees, but I am saying what I also think. We all need competition, and I know when SM is involved in something, no doubt it makes it fun,” he added. ADVERTISEMENT Shatta Wale’s relationship with the TGMA has remained strained since the widely publicised incident involving fellow dancehall artist Stonebwoy during the 2019 edition of the awards. The altercation occurred after Stonebwoy was announced winner of the Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year category. A confrontation between members of both camps caused disruption at the venue, while Stonebwoy briefly displayed a firearm on stage, leading to panic among attendees. 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 . Both artists were later arrested and granted bail following the incident, which remains one of the most controversial moments in the history of the TGMA. Source: OKAY FM ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Ghanian Musics Ghanian Musics Ghana Ghana

Nigerian rapper YCee reveals how a mental health diagnosis in 2020 led to years of treatment and recovery. Nigerian rapper YCee has shared one of the most personal chapters of his life, revealing that a mental health diagnosis in 2020 forced him to step away from music and begin a long journey toward recovery. According to The Punch, the 'Omo Alhaji' hitmaker, whose real name is Oludemilade Martin Alejo, spoke about his experience during a recent episode of the Afropolitan Podcast, explaining how the COVID-19 lockdown became a turning point in his life. YCee said he was living in London when doctors diagnosed him with a mental health condition. He spent about three months in and out of hospital during a six-month stay in the UK before returning to Nigeria to continue treatment because of his visa status. Back in Lagos, the rapper said adjusting to mental healthcare in Nigeria was not easy. He underwent years of treatment that included medication, therapy sessions and several hospital admissions as he worked to manage his condition. The award-winning artist described the recovery process as unpredictable, saying there were periods when things improved and others when life became extremely difficult. His experience also explains why fans saw less of him during those years, as his focus shifted from music to his health. YCee revealed that he is now in a much better place after years of treatment and therapy. While he continues to prioritize his wellbeing, he says he has reached a level of stability that allows him to move forward. By speaking openly about his mental health journey, YCee joins a growing number of African entertainers using their platforms to encourage honest conversations about mental wellness. His story highlights the importance of seeking help and reminds fans that recovery often takes time, patience and support. ENTERTAINMENT YCee Opens Up About Mental Health Battle and Recovery By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jun 26, 2026 Jun 26, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian rapper YCee has shared one of the most personal chapters of his life, revealing that a mental health diagnosis in 2020 forced him to step away from music and begin a long journey toward recovery. According to The Punch, the 'Omo Alhaji' hitmaker, whose real name is Oludemilade Martin Alejo, spoke about his experience during a recent episode of the Afropolitan Podcast, explaining how the COVID-19 lockdown became a turning point in his life. YCee said he was living in London when doctors diagnosed him with a mental health condition. He spent about three months in and out of hospital during a six-month stay in the UK before returning to Nigeria to continue treatment because of his visa status. ADVERTISEMENT Back in Lagos, the rapper said adjusting to mental healthcare in Nigeria was not easy. He underwent years of treatment that included medication, therapy sessions and several hospital admissions as he worked to manage his condition. The award-winning artist described the recovery process as unpredictable, saying there were periods when things improved and others when life became extremely difficult. His experience also explains why fans saw less of him during those years, as his focus shifted from music to his health. ADVERTISEMENT YCee revealed that he is now in a much better place after years of treatment and therapy. While he continues to prioritize his wellbeing, he says he has reached a level of stability that allows him to move forward. By speaking openly about his mental health journey, YCee joins a growing number of African entertainers using their platforms to encourage honest conversations about mental wellness. His story highlights the importance of seeking help and reminds fans that recovery often takes time, patience and support. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Explore Maasai songs, oral literature, women’s voices, age-set ceremonies and cultural learning beyond the familiar jumping-dance image. The photograph is familiar: young Maasai men rise vertically while a line of singers watches. It is a powerful scene, but it has become an inadequate shorthand for an entire musical culture. The jump draws the camera. The voices carry the occasion. Maasai performance belongs to a much larger oral world. Song can praise, teach, pray, remember, tease, advise and mark a change in social responsibility. Stories, proverbs and riddles extend that work beyond music. Meaning comes not from one spectacular movement but from who is speaking, who answers, why people have gathered and what the community needs to remember. What do Maasai songs and oral traditions communicate? Maasai songs and oral traditions communicate history, moral expectations, age-set identity, spiritual ideas, relationships, livestock knowledge and community memory. Their meanings vary by locality, generation, gender and occasion. The famous jumping dance is one visible performance within this broader system of voice, movement, teaching and collective participation. The Maasai Communities Behind the Performance The Maasai are Indigenous East Africans whose homeland crosses southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. Maa language, pastoral knowledge, kinship, age sets and ceremonial relationships have historically shaped community life. Maasai people today also live in cities and work in education, business, conservation, government, health and the arts. XTRAfrica's guide to Maasai culture, history and traditions provides the wider context. There is no single performance rule for this large cross-border society. A song documented in Kajiado, Kenya, should not automatically be assigned to Monduli, Tanzania. Words, vocal styles, participation and ceremonial use may differ among sections, settlements, age groups and families. Religious commitment, schooling, migration and the intended audience also matter. Maa is equally important. A translation can communicate a song's subject, but it may not carry every verbal association, sound pattern, joke or relationship encoded in the original performance. The history and regional variation of Maa explain why online lists of supposedly universal lyrics or song names deserve caution. The Dance Is Visible, but the Voice Organises the Moment Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Maasai Songs and Oral Tradition Beyond the Jumping Dance By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jul 28, 2026 Jul 28, 2026 14 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The photograph is familiar: young Maasai men rise vertically while a line of singers watches. It is a powerful scene, but it has become an inadequate shorthand for an entire musical culture. The jump draws the camera. The voices carry the occasion. Maasai performance belongs to a much larger oral world. Song can praise, teach, pray, remember, tease, advise and mark a change in social responsibility. Stories, proverbs and riddles extend that work beyond music. Meaning comes not from one spectacular movement but from who is speaking, who answers, why people have gathered and what the community needs to remember. What do Maasai songs and oral traditions communicate? Maasai songs and oral traditions communicate history, moral expectations, age-set identity, spiritual ideas, relationships, livestock knowledge and community memory. Their meanings vary by locality, generation, gender and occasion. The famous jumping dance is one visible performance within this broader system of voice, movement, teaching and collective participation. The Maasai Communities Behind the Performance The Maasai are Indigenous East Africans whose homeland crosses southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. Maa language, pastoral knowledge, kinship, age sets and ceremonial relationships have historically shaped community life. Maasai representatives from Kenya and Tanzania participating in the Living Cultures project. Maasai people today also live in cities and work in education, business, conservation, government, health and the arts. XTRAfrica's guide to Maasai culture, history and traditions provides the wider context. There is no single performance rule for this large cross-border society. A song documented in Kajiado, Kenya, should not automatically be assigned to Monduli, Tanzania. Words, vocal styles, participation and ceremonial use may differ among sections, settlements, age groups and families. Religious commitment, schooling, migration and the intended audience also matter. Maa is equally important. A translation can communicate a song's subject, but it may not carry every verbal association, sound pattern, joke or relationship encoded in the original performance. The history and regional variation of Maa explain why online lists of supposedly universal lyrics or song names deserve caution. The Dance Is Visible, but the Voice Organises the Moment The jumping performance widely called adumu is especially associated in public imagery with young men. It can display stamina, discipline, rhythm and age-set fellowship. Yet isolating the jump from its vocal and social setting turns a participatory event into an athletic trick. Many Maasai performances bring individual and collective voices into relationship. A lead part may prompt a response; repeated phrases allow a group to enter; breath, pulse and bodily movement help hold the performance together. The result is not simply a “song” separated from daily life. It is an exchange in which performers and listeners recognise roles, reputations, memories and the reason for gathering. An archival recording makes the limits of the popular image clear in a different way. The Smithsonian Folkways catalogue identifies a 1963 Tanzanian track, “ War Chant of the Elmoran ,” as Maa-language group vocals by young Maasai warriors. It preserves audible evidence, but its unnamed performers and old catalogue label also show why an archive is not a complete community explanation. Recordings capture performances; they do not automatically preserve every relationship and interpretation around them. ADVERTISEMENT Songs Mark Responsibility, Not Just Celebration Some of the clearest institutional evidence comes from three Kenyan rites of passage: Enkipaata, Eunoto and Olng'esherr. UNESCO's cultural-heritage record describes a progression from preparation for initiation through moranhood and towards elderhood. It links the rites with responsibility, livestock knowledge, conflict management, legends, traditions and life skills. Song is part of that larger curriculum. A separate UNESCO safeguarding account says the rites involve the community and feature songs alongside folktales, proverbs and riddles. In other words, performance helps make a change of status publicly intelligible. It teaches what a new position demands while connecting one age set to those before and after it. That context matters when watching a ceremonial clip online. Clothing, singing or movement may be the visible surface of instruction, blessing and transfer of responsibility. XTRAfrica's detailed account of Enkipaata, Eunoto and Olng'esherr also explains why school calendars, land pressure, religion, employment and cost can alter the timing and form of rites without making every adaptation a cultural disappearance. Women’s Voices Are Central, Not Background Tourist imagery often places young men in the foreground and women at the edge of the frame. The oral record is broader. Women sing, respond, compose, remember, teach and shape the social force of performances. Their participation cannot be understood as decoration around male action. Maasai women singing collectively in a circle Credit: Georgina Goodwin/World Bank . One carefully bounded example comes from the Ereto Maasai Women Group. A scholarly review of the field-recorded album Maigisa: Songs of the Maasai documents 21 performances with Maa, Kiswahili and English song texts . It does not represent all Maasai women, but it establishes women as named performers whose repertoire merits translation and documentation on its own terms. Recent ethnography offers a more specific Tanzanian view. Joseph Pesambili's open-access study in Meserani and Engaruka reports eight months of fieldwork and interviews or discussions with 72 mothers and female elders. In the documented night gatherings, young women and men sang and danced together; participants described the setting as a place where girls learned confidence, social expectations and relationships through observation and participation. The Monduli study is local evidence, not a universal template, but it corrects any account in which women merely watch. Oral Literature Reaches Beyond Song Music sits inside a wider field of spoken art. Naomi Kipuri's Oral Literature of the Maasai collects narratives, proverbs, riddles and songs for different occasions. Its value lies partly in its precision about place: the versions came from a particular community around Ilbissil in Kajiado County, and many examples were recorded during live performances in the early 1970s. Maasai women and a child gather at the OMOM Maasai Community Foundation, which promotes education, cultural identity and youth participation in Tanzania. Credit: © OMOM Maasai Community Foundation, via UNESCO. ADVERTISEMENT The publisher-supplied book description also connects the material with livestock, environment, moral and spiritual concerns and human relationships. That range challenges the idea that oral tradition is an imperfect substitute for writing. A proverb can condense a judgement into memorable language. A riddle can train attention and shared reference. A narrative can organise remembered experience, while a song can make a message collective and repeatable. None is a sealed container. A skilled performer selects, adapts and delivers material to people who already know how to answer, laugh, challenge or interpret it. Oral accounts also require historical care. Memory is evidence, but it is not a mechanical recording. A story may explain identity or moral order without supplying a date-by-date chronology. Historians compare oral testimony with linguistic, archaeological and documentary evidence. Respecting oral tradition means taking its knowledge seriously while also asking what kind of truth a particular performance is designed to communicate. Children Learn by Listening, Joining and Repeating Songs are educational because participation joins words to bodies, relationships and occasions. Alexander Ronoh's Kenyan study, based on archival work, interviews and student focus groups, found that Maasai singing and dancing transmit learning drawn from history, culture and nature . The article argues that these practices have implications for a school curriculum that often treats knowledge as something delivered only through a classroom. Learning may begin before a child understands every word. Children hear how adults greet, praise, warn and remember. They watch when particular people lead or answer. Gradually they join repeated parts, learn the expectations surrounding an occasion and connect language with livestock, landscape, kin and responsibility. This is not a claim that song replaces literacy or formal schooling. The stronger argument is that education occurs through several systems. Community-based oral teaching can coexist with books, classrooms, recordings and digital media. The Pitt Rivers Museum's Maasai educational films , produced with Maasai video collectives in Kenya and Tanzania, show one contemporary method: community members use recorded media to represent their own knowledge and living culture. When Performance Meets Tourism, Church and the Phone Maasai community members hold hymn books during an outdoor Christian gathering, showing how communal singing continues within changing religious settings. Public performance changes when the audience changes. A short programme for visitors may select the most visually recognisable movement, compress the sequence and remove the private instruction that gives it local depth. Such a performance can still be genuinely created and controlled by Maasai people, but it should not be mistaken for a complete ceremony or the musical life of every community. Other settings produce different changes. 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 . Christian worship may introduce new texts and occasions while older patterns of blessing, collective voice and ceremonial belonging continue, combine or become contested. XTRAfrica's examination of Maasai spirituality and Christianity shows why the result is rarely a clean division between “traditional” and “modern.” Phones, studios and social platforms create another audience. A song can travel beyond the locality that understands all its references. Recording can preserve a voice and give artists reach, yet it can also detach sound from consent, translation and context. The answer is not to demand that Maasai culture remain offline. It is to ask who performs, who explains, who earns, what has been edited and whether material intended for a limited setting should circulate at all. That question matters in cities too. As XTRAfrica's account of Maasai professionals balancing city life and heritage makes clear, cultural belonging does not end when someone takes an office job or lives away from a rural homestead. Oral tradition survives through use and reinterpretation, not through confinement to a safari stage. Frequently Asked Questions What is the Maasai jumping dance called? It is widely called adumu in popular and English-language accounts. Usage and explanation can vary, and the jump should be understood within a larger vocal, age-set and social performance rather than as a standalone contest. Are all Maasai songs warrior songs? No. Documented repertoires include songs connected with ceremony, social relationships, praise, prayer, learning and other occasions. Warrior performance is prominent in outside imagery, but it is one part of a much wider oral world. Do Maasai women perform songs and dances? Yes. Women may lead, respond, compose, teach and perform, although roles differ by place and occasion. Women’s field recordings and Tanzanian ethnography both demonstrate active participation rather than a merely decorative presence. Is Maasai oral tradition only music? No. It also includes narratives, proverbs, riddles, praise, blessings and other forms of spoken knowledge. These forms can preserve memory, teach judgement, entertain and organise community understanding. Is a tourist performance an authentic Maasai tradition? It may be authentically performed and community controlled, but it is usually selected for a particular audience and time limit. Viewers should not treat one staged programme as a complete ceremony or a universal picture of Maasai culture. The famous jump deserves appreciation, but not the burden of representing everything. To listen beyond it is to hear a social archive in motion: women and men, elders and young people, leaders and respondents using voice, language and memory to make responsibility public. Maasai oral tradition is not a surviving fragment behind modern life. It is one of the ways Maasai communities continue to interpret that life. Sources and Further Reading Kipuri, Naomi. Oral Literature of the Maasai . East African Educational Publishers. First published 1983; ebook edition listed 2023. Book description and collection scope available through OverDrive . Pesambili, Joseph C. 2026. “Exploring Traditional Learning and Socialisation Pathways Outside Formal Schooling among Maasai Girls in Monduli, Tanzania.” Discover Education 5, article 487. Full open-access article , especially the abstract, Methods and section 4.2. Ronoh, Alexander K. 2016. “Indigenous Educational Practices in Kenya: Traditional Singing and Dancing as Elements of Maasai Children’s Learning Experiences.” Journal of Global Research in Education and Social Science 8(4): 253–259. Abstract and citation record . UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. “Enkipaata, Eunoto and Olng'esherr, Three Male Rites of Passage of the Maasai Community.” Inscribed in 2018. Nomination and decision record . UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. “Safeguarding of Enkipaata, Eunoto and Olng'esherr.” Project implemented 2017–2020. Safeguarding overview . Hill, Stephen. 2003. Review of Maigisa: Songs of the Maasai , performed by the Ereto Maasai Women Group. Yearbook for Traditional Music 35: 215–216. Cambridge Core record . Smithsonian Folkways Recordings. “War Chant of the Elmoran.” The Demonstration Collection of E.M. von Hornbostel and the Berlin Phonogramm-Archiv , released 1963. Catalogue record . Pitt Rivers Museum. “Maasai Living Cultures Educational Films.” Community-produced learning resources . 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 Kenya Kenya Tanzania Tanzania The Maasai People The Maasai People

On a spirited Sunday, President Félix Tshisekedi attended a crucial World Cup qualifying match, witnessing the Leopards secure a narrow 1-0 victory over the Sparrows of Togo. The match, part of the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in USA-Mexico-Canada, was marked by an electrifying atmosphere in a packed stadium. The Leopards took an early lead, thanks to a sixth-minute goal from Meschak Elia. This decisive strike proved enough to claim victory, showcasing the team's resilience and skill under pressure. President Tshisekedi's presence and unwavering support have been a cornerstone for the team, reinforcing their morale and performance. This victory adds to a string of successes under the guidance of coach Sébastien Desarbre. Tshisekedi's support was also pivotal during the Congolese team's impressive run at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d'Ivoire, where their strategic play and determination were evident. The win over Togo places the DRC in a favorable position as they continue their journey in the World Cup qualifiers. With strong backing from the highest levels of government, the Leopards are poised to tackle the remaining fixtures with confidence and national pride Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 10, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: President Félix Tshisekedi attended the victory (1-0) of the Leopards of the DRC On a spirited Sunday, President Félix Tshisekedi attended a crucial World Cup qualifying match, witnessing the Leopards secure a narrow 1-0 victory over the Sparrows of Togo. The match, part of the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in USA-Mexico-Canada, was marked by an electrifying atmosphere in a packed stadium. The Leopards took an early lead, thanks to a sixth-minute goal from Meschak Elia. This decisive strike proved enough to claim victory, showcasing the team's resilience and skill under pressure. President Tshisekedi's presence and unwavering support have been a cornerstone for the team, reinforcing their morale and performance. ADVERTISEMENT Meschak Elia Congolese soccer player This victory adds to a string of successes under the guidance of coach Sébastien Desarbre. Tshisekedi's support was also pivotal during the Congolese team's impressive run at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d'Ivoire, where their strategic play and determination were evident. The win over Togo places the DRC in a favorable position as they continue their journey in the World Cup qualifiers. With strong backing from the highest levels of government, the Leopards are poised to tackle the remaining fixtures with confidence and national pride ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

Two Chinese nationals were arrested in the US for spying and trying to recruit Navy members as Chinese intelligence assets. Two Chinese nationals have been arrested in the United States for allegedly spying and trying to recruit members of the US Navy to work as intelligence assets for China. The US Justice Department announced the arrests on Tuesday, saying the two men face up to 10 years in prison if convicted . Who Are the Suspects? The accused are: Yuance Chen (38) – a resident of Happy Valley, Oregon, who came to the US in 2015 and became a permanent resident. Liren “Ryan” Lai (39) – a Chinese national who arrived in Houston, Texas, earlier this year on a tourist visa. Both were arrested by the FBI on Friday , charged with acting as agents of the Chinese government without registering as foreign agents, which is required under US law. What Did They Do? According to court documents: Continue Reading Full Article Two Chinese Nationals Arrested in US for Spying on US Navy By Serge Kabongo Sports & Entertainment Serge Kabongo Home Comment Jul 2, 2025 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Two Chinese nationals have been arrested in the United States for allegedly spying and trying to recruit members of the US Navy to work as intelligence assets for China. The US Justice Department announced the arrests on Tuesday, saying the two men face up to 10 years in prison if convicted . ADVERTISEMENT Who Are the Suspects? The accused are: Yuance Chen (38) – a resident of Happy Valley, Oregon, who came to the US in 2015 and became a permanent resident. Liren “Ryan” Lai (39) – a Chinese national who arrived in Houston, Texas, earlier this year on a tourist visa. Both were arrested by the FBI on Friday , charged with acting as agents of the Chinese government without registering as foreign agents, which is required under US law. What Did They Do? According to court documents: Lai recruited Chen in 2021 to work for China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS). They paid cash to gather national security information. They tried to recruit US Navy members as intelligence assets. Their operations included: Photographing a US Navy base in Washington state. Photographing a Navy recruiting station in California. Organising a secret cash drop of at least $10,000 to an MSS contact. Sending personal details of Navy recruits, especially those of Chinese descent, to Chinese intelligence contacts. In one conversation, Chen reportedly told Lai about a Navy recruit, noting family details to identify potential weaknesses for recruitment. ADVERTISEMENT What US Officials Are Saying Attorney General Pamela Bondi said: “This case underscores the Chinese government’s sustained and aggressive effort to infiltrate our military and undermine our national security from within.” Assistant Attorney General John Eisenberg added: “Adverse foreign intelligence services like the PRC's Ministry of State Security dedicate years to recruiting individuals and cultivating them as intelligence assets within the United States.” China’s Response A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, Liu Pengyu , said he had no knowledge of the case and claimed: “The US has never stopped its espionage activities against China,” dismissing the accusations as lacking evidence. Background: China’s Espionage in the US This arrest is part of a broader pattern of Chinese intelligence targeting the US military. In August 2023, two Navy sailors were charged with supplying China with sensitive military information , including details of wartime exercises and naval deployments. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Visa and Entry Updates US B1/B2 Visa Revocations: What Africans Need to Know . Nigeria News Nigerian Army Raids IPOB/ESN Hideouts, Recovers IED Materials . Biography Who Was Babacar Mbaye Ndaak? Life, Career and Death . Accident News How Did Brandon Clarke Die? Latest Updates & Police Reports . Health News What Is Hantavirus? The Rare Virus Linked to Cruise Ship Deaths . What Happens Next? If convicted, Chen and Lai face up to 10 years in prison . The US continues to monitor and counter foreign espionage efforts, especially those targeting its military and national security. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Visa and Entry Updates US B1/B2 Visa Revocations: What Africans Need to Know Up to 200,000 visitor visas could be revoked under a planned US policy targeting foreigners . Nigeria News Nigerian Army Raids IPOB/ESN Hideouts, Recovers IED Materials Troops raided suspected IPOB/ESN positions in Anambra, recovering guns, motorcycles and IED materials. . Biography Who Was Babacar Mbaye Ndaak? Life, Career and Death The Senegalese storyteller devoted his life to protecting and teaching Africa’s oral heritage. . Accident News How Did Brandon Clarke Die? Latest Updates & Police Reports Police are investigating Brandon Clarke’s sudden death as a possible overdose. . Tags World News World News United States United States

UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with comprehensive funding. See eligibility, documents and deadlines. CAPE TOWN, South Africa — August 26, 2026 — Applications are open for the 2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town (UCT), offering comprehensive scholarship support to academically talented students from across Africa who face significant financial and social barriers to higher education. UCT officially announced the 2027 intake on August 21, 2026. Applicants must be citizens of an African country, including South Africa, and must be applying for their first bachelor’s degree or an eligible postgraduate programme at UCT. UCT News The scholarship covers major study and living costs, including tuition, accommodation, living expenses, medical aid, travel and study-visa costs where applicable. Scholars also receive academic support, leadership development, career preparation and access to internship opportunities. University of Cape Town Who Can Apply for the UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship? Applicants must be citizens of an African country, including South Africa. UCT says candidates should demonstrate strong academic ability while also showing that significant social or economic barriers have limited their access to higher education. Applicants are also expected to demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to their communities and an interest in contributing to positive change in Africa. UCT particularly encourages applications from young women, people with disabilities, refugees and forcibly displaced young people. University of Cape Town Eligible study options include: A first undergraduate bachelor’s degree A postgraduate diploma offered by UCT's Faculty of Health Sciences Continue Reading Full Article SCHOLARSHIPS UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 27, 2026 Aug 27, 2026 9 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: CAPE TOWN, South Africa — August 26, 2026 — Applications are open for the 2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town (UCT), offering comprehensive scholarship support to academically talented students from across Africa who face significant financial and social barriers to higher education. UCT officially announced the 2027 intake on August 21, 2026. Applicants must be citizens of an African country, including South Africa, and must be applying for their first bachelor’s degree or an eligible postgraduate programme at UCT. UCT News The scholarship covers major study and living costs, including tuition, accommodation, living expenses, medical aid, travel and study-visa costs where applicable. Scholars also receive academic support, leadership development, career preparation and access to internship opportunities. University of Cape Town Who Can Apply for the UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship? Applicants must be citizens of an African country, including South Africa. UCT says candidates should demonstrate strong academic ability while also showing that significant social or economic barriers have limited their access to higher education. Applicants are also expected to demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to their communities and an interest in contributing to positive change in Africa. UCT particularly encourages applications from young women, people with disabilities, refugees and forcibly displaced young people. University of Cape Town Eligible study options include: A first undergraduate bachelor’s degree A postgraduate diploma offered by UCT's Faculty of Health Sciences An honours degree An eligible coursework master's degree Study opportunities are available across UCT's faculties of Commerce, Engineering & the Built Environment, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law and Science. University of Cape Town The scholarship does not cover part-time programmes, research-only master's degrees or PhD programmes. ADVERTISEMENT What Does the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Cover? The UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is designed as comprehensive support for the duration of an eligible degree. UCT says funding can include: Full tuition fees International student fees where applicable UCT student accommodation Living expenses Meals Medical aid A laptop Study-visa support where applicable Travel between the scholar's home and Cape Town Book and study-related support Academic and peer support Leadership development Career-readiness training Entrepreneurship development Internship opportunities Access to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Network UCT states that support continues for the full period of the student's programme and is renewed annually subject to satisfactory academic performance, conduct and participation in Scholars Program activities. University of Cape Town Important Warning for Undergraduate Applicants There is an important restriction for students hoping to begin a bachelor's degree in 2027. UCT's general undergraduate applications for the 2027 academic year are already closed. This means a student who has not already applied to UCT for undergraduate admission cannot now use the Mastercard Foundation scholarship application as a way to submit a new UCT bachelor’s application. Students who already submitted their 2027 undergraduate application to UCT may still apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program if they meet the scholarship requirements. They must ultimately receive an offer of admission from UCT to qualify for the scholarship. University of Cape Town Postgraduate applicants still have an opportunity to apply to UCT, although individual faculties and academic programmes may have their own closing dates. Documents Required UCT's current scholarship application form provides a clearer document checklist for 2027 applicants. ADVERTISEMENT Applicants must provide proof of address, such as an official bank statement, utility or municipal bill, or qualifying letter confirming their home address. They must also provide evidence of their family's financial situation, which may include parent or guardian bank statements or documentation of government or social grants. University of Cape Town Applicants also need a CV or resume of no more than three pages covering their education, employment where applicable, extracurricular activities, community involvement and leadership experience. University of Cape Town A recommendation letter is also required. UCT says it may come from a teacher, lecturer, religious leader or previous employer and should include the referee's full name and contact details. University of Cape Town Applicants Must Submit an Essay Both undergraduate and postgraduate candidates have an essay requirement of no more than 2,000 words. Undergraduate applicants are asked to discuss why they want to join the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, their personal and professional goals, their educational journey, barriers they have overcome and how they have supported people around them. University of Cape Town Postgraduate applicants must focus more strongly on leadership, community service, entrepreneurship and how they intend to contribute to the economic and social development of their community, country and Africa. University of Cape Town How to Apply The Mastercard Foundation scholarship application and the normal UCT academic application are two separate processes. 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 Education KUCCPS Placement 2026: How to Check Your Results . Education HELB Student Portal Login: How to Check Loan Status . Education HELB Loan Application 2026: Requirements and How to Apply . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Applicants should: Identify an eligible programme at the University of Cape Town. Apply for academic admission to UCT, where academic applications are still available. Obtain and keep their UCT applicant or campus number. Complete the separate Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application. Upload the required supporting documents. Submit the application before the applicable scholarship deadline. UCT advises prospective scholars to apply for academic admission first because receiving the scholarship depends on obtaining admission to an eligible UCT programme. University of Cape Town UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Deadline There are two main scholarship deadlines: Undergraduate applicants: September 30, 2026 Postgraduate applicants: October 31, 2026 The September 30 deadline applies only to prospective undergraduate scholars who already submitted a 2027 undergraduate application to UCT before university admissions closed. University of Cape Town Postgraduate candidates should also check the closing date for their individual academic programme because a faculty or department may close applications before the Mastercard Foundation scholarship deadline. Is the UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Fully Funded? UCT describes the programme as providing comprehensive financial support. Its published benefits include tuition, accommodation, living costs, medical cover, study-visa support and travel, alongside academic and professional-development support. University of Cape Town The scholarship is therefore one of the most substantial current university-funding opportunities available to eligible African students seeking undergraduate or postgraduate education in South Africa. Applicants should use only the official University of Cape Town application channels and carefully review the eligibility requirements before submitting. Official Application Links Apply for the UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 Open the official 2027 scholarship application form Read UCT's August 21 announcement ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Education KUCCPS Placement 2026: How to Check Your Results Log in at students.kuccps.net with your KCSE details to see your placement. . Education HELB Student Portal Login: How to Check Loan Status Log in at portal.hef.co.ke, reset your password, and check allocation and disbursement. . Education HELB Loan Application 2026: Requirements and How to Apply First-time HELB and HEF funding for 2026/2027: documents, portal steps, and *642# renewals. . 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, . Tags Scholarships & Bursaries Scholarships & Bursaries South Africa South Africa opportunity opportunity Africa Africa

DRC and M23 resume talks in Switzerland as mediators push for progress on ceasefire, civilians and disarmament. The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels resumed a new round of peace talks in Switzerland on Monday, in the latest effort to revive a stalled process aimed at ending violence in the country’s east. The negotiations mark a fresh phase in a dialogue that had previously been held in Doha, with both sides returning to the table nearly nine months after signing a declaration of principles meant to pave the way for a final agreement. The talks are expected to focus on practical next steps, including humanitarian access, civilian protection, prisoner exchanges, and the disarmament and reintegration of fighters. The question of ceasefire monitoring also remains central after earlier commitments failed to produce lasting calm on the ground. The July 19, 2025 declaration signed under Qatari mediation committed the parties to work toward a broader peace agreement, with the United States publicly welcoming that framework at the time. More recently, the UN said previous Doha discussions had produced terms for a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism, even as insecurity in eastern DRC remained volatile. This latest round also reflects a shift in the diplomatic format. Reports in recent days indicated that upcoming meetings between Kinshasa and M23 would move to Switzerland, while broader international involvement around the process continues to grow. That wider push matters because fighting in North Kivu and South Kivu has continued despite repeated ceasefire calls, leaving negotiators under pressure to turn past commitments into measurable progress. For Kinshasa, the negotiations are another attempt to convert diplomacy into concrete security gains. For M23, they are a chance to press unresolved demands that have lingered since the earlier agreement, including security arrangements and implementation guarantees. Whether the Switzerland round produces a breakthrough may depend less on new declarations than on whether both sides can agree on enforceable steps. Continue Reading Full Article WAR IN EASTERN DRC DRC, M23 resume talks in Switzerland to push peace deal By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Apr 13, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels resumed a new round of peace talks in Switzerland on Monday, in the latest effort to revive a stalled process aimed at ending violence in the country’s east. The negotiations mark a fresh phase in a dialogue that had previously been held in Doha, with both sides returning to the table nearly nine months after signing a declaration of principles meant to pave the way for a final agreement. The talks are expected to focus on practical next steps, including humanitarian access, civilian protection, prisoner exchanges, and the disarmament and reintegration of fighters. The question of ceasefire monitoring also remains central after earlier commitments failed to produce lasting calm on the ground. ADVERTISEMENT The July 19, 2025 declaration signed under Qatari mediation committed the parties to work toward a broader peace agreement, with the United States publicly welcoming that framework at the time. More recently, the UN said previous Doha discussions had produced terms for a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism, even as insecurity in eastern DRC remained volatile. This latest round also reflects a shift in the diplomatic format. Reports in recent days indicated that upcoming meetings between Kinshasa and M23 would move to Switzerland, while broader international involvement around the process continues to grow. ADVERTISEMENT That wider push matters because fighting in North Kivu and South Kivu has continued despite repeated ceasefire calls, leaving negotiators under pressure to turn past commitments into measurable progress. For Kinshasa, the negotiations are another attempt to convert diplomacy into concrete security gains. For M23, they are a chance to press unresolved demands that have lingered since the earlier agreement, including security arrangements and implementation guarantees. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . International Relations Ndayishimiye Backs Leopards After Historic Draw With Portugal . Whether the Switzerland round produces a breakthrough may depend less on new declarations than on whether both sides can agree on enforceable steps. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress What otjize, jewelry, hairstyles, and clothing represent in Himba culture . Tags Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo African Union African Union M23 Rebels News M23 Rebels News DR Congo Rising DR Congo Rising African Union African Union

Millie Bobby Brown meets Burna Boy backstage before co-hosting the ‘Tonight Show,’ where he performs tracks from his latest album. Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown met Nigerian Afrobeats artist Burna Boy ahead of her appearance on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon . A short video shared online captured Brown expressing excitement as she greeted the Grammy-winning performer backstage. Brown, who was scheduled to co-host the episode, introduced herself before giving Burna Boy a brief hug. During the show, Burna Boy performed “Love” and “Update,” tracks from his No Sign of Weakness album. Continue Reading Full Article HOLLYWOOD UPDATES Millie Bobby Brown Meets Burna Boy Ahead of TV Appearance By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 9, 2025 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown met Nigerian Afrobeats artist Burna Boy ahead of her appearance on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon . A short video shared online captured Brown expressing excitement as she greeted the Grammy-winning performer backstage. Brown, who was scheduled to co-host the episode, introduced herself before giving Burna Boy a brief hug. ADVERTISEMENT During the show, Burna Boy performed “Love” and “Update,” tracks from his No Sign of Weakness album. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW Master P Faces Son Mercy Miller in College Basketball Clash . Entertainment Taylor Swift’s ‘End of an Era’ Docuseries Moves Fans to Tears . Entertainment Kim Kardashian Faces Setback as Mentor Discusses Bar Exam Effort . Entertainment U.S. Vows to Hold Rwanda, M23 Accountable for Congo War Crimes . Washington Peace Accord POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Hollywood Updates Zooey Deschanel Talks New Christmas Film and Holiday Legacy Deschanel discusses her new Christmas movie Merv and her long-standing festive music career . Hollywood Updates Diddy’s Mother Refutes Claims Raised in New Netflix Documentary Janice Combs disputes allegations about family history in Sean Combs: The Reckoning . Musics Kendrick Lamar’s Scrapped ‘The Recipe’ Video Revealed on Podcast Producers explain why Kendrick Lamar and Dr. Dre’s planned lead video never made the final rollout. . Musics Ariana Grande Reflects on Mac Miller’s Influence Seven Years On Singer recounts Mac Miller’s impact on her artistry during a recent master class appearance . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

President Bola Tinubu lands in Abu Dhabi for the 2026 Sustainability Week, seeking partnerships on climate action and renewable energy. Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, 11 January 2026 to take part in the 2026 edition of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). According to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the presidential aircraft landed at the presidential wing of Zayed International Airport around 11:30 p.m. local time, where Tinubu was received by the UAE’s minister of state for foreign affairs, Sheikh Shakhboot Nahyan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al‑Shamsi, and Nigeria’s foreign affairs minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar . The visit follows a stopover in Europe during which the Nigerian leader held consultations with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and French President Emmanuel Macron. Arrival and welcome ceremony The presidential flight touched down late Sunday night, and Tinubu was greeted not only by UAE officials but also by members of Nigeria’s diplomatic mission. In addition to Mr Tuggar, senior Nigerian figures on hand included the minister of budget and planning, Atiku Bagudu; the minister of industry, trade and investment, Jumoke Oduwole; and the director‑general of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed. The Nigerian delegation later converged at the president’s hotel, highlighting Abuja’s determination to seize opportunities at the high‑profile meeting. The Cable, a Nigerian news outlet, first reported that Tinubu had arrived in Abu Dhabi and was set to join other heads of state at the sustainability summit. Subsequent official statements clarified the details of his arrival. Purpose of the trip Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said in an earlier statement that Tinubu’s participation underscores Nigeria’s intent to “strengthen alliance between Nigeria and the UAE,” particularly in renewable energy and economic cooperation. The president is expected to position Nigeria as a partner for green investment and to seek foreign capital to support the country’s transition away from fossil fuels. Premium Times noted that Tinubu wants Nigeria to be a leading player in sustainable development and that the visit is aimed at attracting foreign investment and fostering partnerships that align with Nigeria’s growth objectives . About Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 Continue Reading Full Article ECONOMIC POLICIES Nigeria’s Tinubu arrives in Abu Dhabi for 2026 Sustainability Week By Sebastiane Ebatamehi Pan-African Analyst & Content Strategist Sebastiane Ebatamehi Home Comment Jan 12, 2026 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, 11 January 2026 to take part in the 2026 edition of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). According to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the presidential aircraft landed at the presidential wing of Zayed International Airport around 11:30 p.m. local time, where Tinubu was received by the UAE’s minister of state for foreign affairs, Sheikh Shakhboot Nahyan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al‑Shamsi, and Nigeria’s foreign affairs minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar . The visit follows a stopover in Europe during which the Nigerian leader held consultations with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and French President Emmanuel Macron. Arrival and welcome ceremony The presidential flight touched down late Sunday night, and Tinubu was greeted not only by UAE officials but also by members of Nigeria’s diplomatic mission. In addition to Mr Tuggar, senior Nigerian figures on hand included the minister of budget and planning, Atiku Bagudu; the minister of industry, trade and investment, Jumoke Oduwole; and the director‑general of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed. ADVERTISEMENT The Nigerian delegation later converged at the president’s hotel, highlighting Abuja’s determination to seize opportunities at the high‑profile meeting. The Cable, a Nigerian news outlet, first reported that Tinubu had arrived in Abu Dhabi and was set to join other heads of state at the sustainability summit. Subsequent official statements clarified the details of his arrival. Purpose of the trip Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said in an earlier statement that Tinubu’s participation underscores Nigeria’s intent to “strengthen alliance between Nigeria and the UAE,” particularly in renewable energy and economic cooperation. The president is expected to position Nigeria as a partner for green investment and to seek foreign capital to support the country’s transition away from fossil fuels. ADVERTISEMENT Premium Times noted that Tinubu wants Nigeria to be a leading player in sustainable development and that the visit is aimed at attracting foreign investment and fostering partnerships that align with Nigeria’s growth objectives . About Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week is a major annual gathering hosted by Masdar under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The 2026 edition, running from 11‑15 January, brings together world leaders, investors and innovators to accelerate practical solutions across energy, finance, food, water and nature. The event’s theme, “The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go,” invites participants to rethink how these interconnected systems can be scaled and integrated. According to the Emirates News Agency, the week will feature high‑level dialogues, a Blue Forum on water and ocean investment, the World Future Energy Summit and several side events including the Youth 4 Sustainability Forum. ADSW 2026 aims to mobilise new technologies such as AI‑driven energy networks and climate‑finance innovations and to set a new benchmark for global collaboration. 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 Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 . Banking and Finance How to Check BVN Without Visiting a Bank . Government Services How to Check Your NIN From Your Phone in 2026 . Students Guide JAMB Result Slip 2026: How to Print It . Students Guide How to Generate JAMB Profile Code With NIN . Tinubu is attending at the invitation of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Nigeria has in recent years sought to deepen ties with the UAE, particularly after the two countries resolved a diplomatic row that led to the lifting of a visa ban on Nigerian travellers. The summit offers an opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its energy‑transition plans and to court investors for renewable power projects and infrastructure. Outlook Tinubu’s presence at ADSW 2026 signals a desire to project Nigeria as an active participant in global sustainability conversations. The sustainability week provides a platform for policy discussions and deal‑making that could attract investment into Nigeria’s renewable energy sector and help diversify its economy away from oil dependency. With global attention focused on the economic and climate crises, Abuja’s engagement in Abu Dhabi is seen as part of a broader strategy to secure financing and partnerships for green growth. Verified facts The president’s plane landed at the presidential wing of Zayed International Airport at about 11:30 p.m. local time. Tinubu was welcomed by UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sheikh Shakhboot Nahyan Al Nahyan and Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar . Additional Nigerian officials, including ministers Atiku Bagudu and Jumoke Oduwole and NIA head Mohammed Mohammed, met the president at his hotel. Tinubu arrived from Europe after holding consultations with Paul Kagame and Emmanuel Macron. ADSW 2026 runs from 11‑15 January and is themed “The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go”. The summit aims to unite world leaders and innovators to address sustainability challenges across interconnected systems Source: The Cable, a Nigerian news ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Transport and Logistics Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 Tinubu orders 500 more CNG stations, but fare cuts depend on state implementation. . Banking and Finance How to Check BVN Without Visiting a Bank Retrieve your 11-digit BVN without visiting a bank by using the official NIBSS *565*0# service from... . Government Services How to Check Your NIN From Your Phone in 2026 Retrieve your 11-digit NIN from your phone using the official *346# service and learn . Students Guide JAMB Result Slip 2026: How to Print It Print or download your official 2026 JAMB result slip through the e-Facility portal using these tricks . Tags Nigeria Gov Services Nigeria Gov Services Nigeria Nigeria The cable The cable opportunities for Africans opportunities for Africans africa africa

Kenya’s fuel protests killed four people as transport strikes exposed wider cost-of-living pressure. Four people were killed and more than 30 injured after protests over Kenya’s fuel price hikes spread during a nationwide public transport strike that stranded commuters and blocked roads in Nairobi and other towns as reported by BBC news . The strike followed sharp increases in pump prices announced for the May 15-June 14 pricing cycle. Reuters reported that diesel in Nairobi rose to 242.92 Kenyan shillings per litre, while super petrol increased to 214.25 shillings. The unrest matters because fuel costs sit at the centre of Kenya’s transport and food economy. Public transport operators said higher fuel prices had forced fare increases, while commuters reported paying much more to travel. It was reported that thousands were stranded as protesters blocked roads and erected burning barricades. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said four Kenyans were killed and more than 30 injured. Police used tear gas in some areas, while authorities said hundreds of people were arrested. The Associated Press also reported four deaths and dozens of injuries during clashes linked to the strike. Government ministers met transport operators late Monday, but no full agreement was reached. Operators pushed for deeper price relief, warning that the strike could continue if the government did not act. Kenya imports nearly all its fuel products, making households vulnerable to global supply shocks. Reports linked the latest increases to pressure from the Middle East conflict, which has squeezed oil and gas supplies. The protests now place President William Ruto’s government under renewed pressure over living costs, transport fares and the price of basic goods. Continue Reading Full Article PROTESTS AND MOVEMENTS WHY Kenya Fuel Protests Matter After Four Deaths By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 19, 2026 May 19, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Four people were killed and more than 30 injured after protests over Kenya’s fuel price hikes spread during a nationwide public transport strike that stranded commuters and blocked roads in Nairobi and other towns as reported by BBC news . The strike followed sharp increases in pump prices announced for the May 15-June 14 pricing cycle. Reuters reported that diesel in Nairobi rose to 242.92 Kenyan shillings per litre, while super petrol increased to 214.25 shillings. The unrest matters because fuel costs sit at the centre of Kenya’s transport and food economy. Public transport operators said higher fuel prices had forced fare increases, while commuters reported paying much more to travel. It was reported that thousands were stranded as protesters blocked roads and erected burning barricades. ADVERTISEMENT Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said four Kenyans were killed and more than 30 injured. Police used tear gas in some areas, while authorities said hundreds of people were arrested. The Associated Press also reported four deaths and dozens of injuries during clashes linked to the strike. ADVERTISEMENT Government ministers met transport operators late Monday, but no full agreement was reached. Operators pushed for deeper price relief, warning that the strike could continue if the government did not act. Kenya imports nearly all its fuel products, making households vulnerable to global supply shocks. Reports linked the latest increases to pressure from the Middle East conflict, which has squeezed oil and gas supplies. 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 Transport and Airlines KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Justice & Crime Three More Arrested in Dr Victoria Mutiso Murder Probe . Technology and Innovation How to Reverse an M-Pesa Transaction . Protests and Movements Kenya Traders Face Tear Gas in KRA Cargo Protest . Business Trends KRA Explains KSh3.2m Rule as Traders Plan Protest . The protests now place President William Ruto’s government under renewed pressure over living costs, transport fares and the price of basic goods. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Transport and Airlines KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports Passengers should confirm departing flights with airlines as KAA manages disruptions . Justice & Crime Three More Arrested in Dr Victoria Mutiso Murder Probe A Kenyan police officer is among three suspects held after a coordinated Nairobi–Kampala operation. . Technology and Innovation How to Reverse an M-Pesa Transaction Forward the M-PESA SMS to 456 within 24 hours, or use the app or Zuri. . Protests and Movements Kenya Traders Face Tear Gas in KRA Cargo Protest Nairobi traders closed shops and marched over KRA's KSh3.2m consolidated-cargo benchmark. . Tags Kenya Kenya Kenya Protests Kenya Protests

Renowned South African football figure Doctor Khumalo asserts his confidence in Bafana Bafana securing a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup over Nigeria, according to a report by soccernet Both teams find themselves in Group C of the qualifiers, facing stiff competition from Rwanda, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and the Benin Republic. Despite Nigeria's formidable football history, boasting six World Cup appearances and three continental championships, their journey in the qualifiers began with less-than-stellar performances, drawing against Lesotho and Zimbabwe. South Africa, while slightly more successful, earned three points from victories over Benin and a loss to Rwanda. The narrative gained momentum following their encounter in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals, where Nigeria emerged victorious on penalties. Undeterred, South Africa demonstrated resilience, securing a bronze medal in the third-place faceoff against DR Congo. As anticipation builds for their June rematch, Khumalo expresses optimism about South Africa's potential success. He calls for unwavering support for coach Hugo Broos and the team, declaring confidently, "I can bet all my money that SA can overcome that obstacle," referring to Nigeria. Adding a layer of intrigue to the upcoming World Cup qualifiers are the recent struggles of Nigeria, currently ranked as the third-best team in Africa. Khumalo's belief in South Africa's ability to overcome challenges adds an element of excitement to the narrative. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Feb 17, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Bafana Bafana Team: winners of 1996 AFCON with Doctor Khumalo left on the last raw Renowned South African football figure Doctor Khumalo asserts his confidence in Bafana Bafana securing a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup over Nigeria, according to a report by soccernet Both teams find themselves in Group C of the qualifiers, facing stiff competition from Rwanda, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and the Benin Republic. Despite Nigeria's formidable football history, boasting six World Cup appearances and three continental championships, their journey in the qualifiers began with less-than-stellar performances, drawing against Lesotho and Zimbabwe. South Africa, while slightly more successful, earned three points from victories over Benin and a loss to Rwanda. The narrative gained momentum following their encounter in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals, where Nigeria emerged victorious on penalties. Undeterred, South Africa demonstrated resilience, securing a bronze medal in the third-place faceoff against DR Congo. ADVERTISEMENT As anticipation builds for their June rematch, Khumalo expresses optimism about South Africa's potential success. He calls for unwavering support for coach Hugo Broos and the team, declaring confidently, "I can bet all my money that SA can overcome that obstacle," referring to Nigeria. Adding a layer of intrigue to the upcoming World Cup qualifiers are the recent struggles of Nigeria, currently ranked as the third-best team in Africa. Khumalo's belief in South Africa's ability to overcome challenges adds an element of excitement to the narrative. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

Iran’s Guards now shape wartime strategy as Tehran pushes phased U.S. talks while delaying nuclear negotiations. Iran’s wartime leadership is pushing a staged diplomatic path with Washington as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps gains greater influence over Tehran’s strategic decisions, according to a Reuters report published Tuesday. The report says Iran submitted a new proposal that would begin with talks on ending the war and resolving Gulf shipping disputes, while leaving the nuclear issue for a later stage. That sequencing has become a central obstacle, with Washington insisting that nuclear questions must be addressed from the start. The shift comes after the reported death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the elevation of Mojtaba Khamenei, whose role is described by sources as more symbolic than directive. Real wartime power, the report says, is increasingly concentrated among IRGC commanders, security officials and a narrower hardline leadership circle. That structure could slow diplomacy. A Pakistani official briefed on mediation efforts told Reuters that Tehran’s responses can take two to three days, suggesting the absence of a single decisive command authority. The diplomatic front remains active, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammed Baqer Qalibaf involved in talks. But the report identifies IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi as a key wartime figure shaping Iran’s position on the ground. For Tehran, the staged proposal appears designed to preserve leverage over the Strait of Hormuz while avoiding early nuclear concessions. For Washington, however, separating the war file from the nuclear file remains unacceptable. The result is a tense diplomatic pause: Iran signals talks are possible, but only on its preferred sequence; the United States wants nuclear commitments first. With the Guards now central to decision-making, any deal may depend less on traditional clerical authority and more on what Iran’s wartime security leadership is willing to accept. Source: Reuters report JUSTICE & CRIME Iran’s IRGC Pushes Staged Talks as War Shifts Power By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Apr 30, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Iran’s wartime leadership is pushing a staged diplomatic path with Washington as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps gains greater influence over Tehran’s strategic decisions, according to a Reuters report published Tuesday. The report says Iran submitted a new proposal that would begin with talks on ending the war and resolving Gulf shipping disputes, while leaving the nuclear issue for a later stage. That sequencing has become a central obstacle, with Washington insisting that nuclear questions must be addressed from the start. ADVERTISEMENT The shift comes after the reported death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the elevation of Mojtaba Khamenei, whose role is described by sources as more symbolic than directive. Real wartime power, the report says, is increasingly concentrated among IRGC commanders, security officials and a narrower hardline leadership circle. That structure could slow diplomacy. A Pakistani official briefed on mediation efforts told Reuters that Tehran’s responses can take two to three days, suggesting the absence of a single decisive command authority. ADVERTISEMENT The diplomatic front remains active, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammed Baqer Qalibaf involved in talks. But the report identifies IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi as a key wartime figure shaping Iran’s position on the ground. For Tehran, the staged proposal appears designed to preserve leverage over the Strait of Hormuz while avoiding early nuclear concessions. For Washington, however, separating the war file from the nuclear file remains unacceptable. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . International Relations Ndayishimiye Backs Leopards After Historic Draw With Portugal . The result is a tense diplomatic pause: Iran signals talks are possible, but only on its preferred sequence; the United States wants nuclear commitments first. With the Guards now central to decision-making, any deal may depend less on traditional clerical authority and more on what Iran’s wartime security leadership is willing to accept. Source: Reuters report ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress What otjize, jewelry, hairstyles, and clothing represent in Himba culture . 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