Africans for Africa Initiative appoints Launch Africa Capital to lead $100M fund reshaping mining finance with 51% of project benefits for Africans. Africans for Africa Initiative Appoints Launch Africa Capital Manager to Lead Pan-African Mining Fund with first close of $100M Africa sits at the centre of the global race for minerals that will power the world’s future yet historically, Africans have captured only a fraction of the value created from their own natural resources. As demand for critical minerals accelerates, a new institution is stepping forward with a bold, African vision for ownership, capital mobilisation, and value retention. The Africans for Africa Initiative (AFA) has appointed Launch Africa Capital Manager (LAC) as Fund Manager for the AFA Fund, a Pan-African investment platform targeting an initial $100 million first close to reshape how mining projects are financed, governed, and developed across the continent. The AFA Fund is a specialist, mineral-agnostic investment vehicle, designed to channel African, diaspora, and international capital into high-quality resource projects in a way that places African interests at the centre of value creation. With this decision, AFA is positioning itself as one of the first continent-wide resource funds grounded in a non-negotiable principle: a minimum of 51% of project benefits must demonstrably accrue to Africans and their communities. Building an African-Led Investment Institution AFA’s appointment of Launch Africa Capital Manager reflects a deeper strategic alignment. LAC brings a track record that is rare on the continent: 164 investments across 25 African countries, consistent institutional stewardship, and the ability to mobilise capital from domestic, diaspora, and international investors at scale. This combination, a mission-driven resource strategy and a proven Pan-African capital allocator, gives the AFA Fund the institutional architecture needed to deliver what many African nations have long sought: structured, patient, professionally governed African capital backing African resource development. Tim Tokun, Managing Director and Co-Founder of AFA, puts it plainly: “For decades, world-class African mineral assets have not been adequately matched with African capital. The result was predictable — value leakage, limited local beneficiation, and missed opportunities for broad-based prosperity. AFA is designed to close that historical gap. We are building an institution that ensures our mineral wealth finally drives sustainable development and wealth retention on the continent .” Why Now? The Global Context Driving the AFA Approach Continue Reading Full Article PRESS RELEASE AFA Appoints Launch Africa to Manage $100M Pan-African Mining Fund By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Dec 2, 2025 May 15, 2026 7 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Africans for Africa Initiative Appoints Launch Africa Capital Manager to Lead Pan-African Mining Fund with first close of $100M Africa sits at the centre of the global race for minerals that will power the world’s future yet historically, Africans have captured only a fraction of the value created from their own natural resources. As demand for critical minerals accelerates, a new institution is stepping forward with a bold, African vision for ownership, capital mobilisation, and value retention. The Africans for Africa Initiative (AFA) has appointed Launch Africa Capital Manager (LAC) as Fund Manager for the AFA Fund, a Pan-African investment platform targeting an initial $100 million first close to reshape how mining projects are financed, governed, and developed across the continent. The AFA Fund is a specialist, mineral-agnostic investment vehicle, designed to channel African, diaspora, and international capital into high-quality resource projects in a way that places African interests at the centre of value creation. With this decision, AFA is positioning itself as one of the first continent-wide resource funds grounded in a non-negotiable principle: a minimum of 51% of project benefits must demonstrably accrue to Africans and their communities. Building an African-Led Investment Institution AFA’s appointment of Launch Africa Capital Manager reflects a deeper strategic alignment. LAC brings a track record that is rare on the continent: 164 investments across 25 African countries, consistent institutional stewardship, and the ability to mobilise capital from domestic, diaspora, and international investors at scale. This combination, a mission-driven resource strategy and a proven Pan-African capital allocator, gives the AFA Fund the institutional architecture needed to deliver what many African nations have long sought: structured, patient, professionally governed African capital backing African resource development. ADVERTISEMENT Tim Tokun, Managing Director and Co-Founder of AFA, puts it plainly: “For decades, world-class African mineral assets have not been adequately matched with African capital. The result was predictable — value leakage, limited local beneficiation, and missed opportunities for broad-based prosperity. AFA is designed to close that historical gap. We are building an institution that ensures our mineral wealth finally drives sustainable development and wealth retention on the continent .” Why Now? The Global Context Driving the AFA Approach From copper and lithium to gold and manganese, Africa holds the minerals that are indispensable for global decarbonisation, electrification, and industrial expansion. Africa's mineral dominance is well established: the continent supplies nearly 70% of the world’s cobalt, over 40% of global manganese, and holds some of the largest reserves of platinum-group metals, bauxite, graphite, and rare earth opportunities. As the global energy transition accelerates, this concentration of supply is transforming Africa into the strategic anchor of future mineral security, making the question of who finances African resource development more important than ever. Several converging trends make AFA’s timing significant: Critical minerals demand is skyrocketing, with the US, EU, China, and India aggressively securing supply. African governments are tightening local content and beneficiation policies, requiring more domestic value capture. Diaspora capital pools are growing but lack structured vehicles to deploy into mining and energy. Institutional investors are seeking Pan-African exposure, but require governance, scale, and pipeline credibility. AFA’s thesis intersects all four. At the same time, many international operators working in Africa increasingly recognise the importance of African capital participation in their projects for strengthening project resilience and long-term stability. AFA is designed to close this gap: providing a trusted, professionally governed platform through which African and diaspora capital can partner with global operators, creating symbiotic structures that enhance project bankability. ADVERTISEMENT Launch Africa Capital Manager: A Platform Built for Pan-African Execution LAC’s appointment gives the AFA Fund immediate reach across regulatory environments, investor networks, and deal ecosystems. The mandate includes: Leading Pan-African, diaspora, and international capital mobilisation Deploying into a balanced, de-risked portfolio of mining and energy projects Ensuring every investment adheres to the 51% African-benefit mandate Building a long-term institution, not a short-cycle fund Janade du Plessis, Co-Managing Partner of Launch Africa Capital Manager, notes: “AFA’s 51% African-benefit mandate aligns directly with our mission to build sustainable African businesses that improve quality of life. We’ve built the infrastructure to mobilise and deploy capital across Africa’s most complex environments. With AFA, we are now applying that capability to the resource sector; building an institution that scales without compromising governance, community benefit, or African ownership.” Early Execution: AFA Secures First Investment in Ghana To demonstrate immediate traction, AFA has commenced operations in West Africa with its first strategic deployment: a $10 million investment into a gold tailings reprocessing venture in Ghana, secured through AFA’s Regional Investment Partner. This project represents AFA’s investment model in action: It focuses on high-yield, near-production assets It leverages tailings reprocessing, reducing environmental impact It generates rapid cash flow and community-level benefits It offers technical de-risking, given the known recoverable material This deal serves as proof for how the AFA Fund intends to blend profitability, sustainability, and African value retention. 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 Import and Export DRC Launches Pepper Task Force for China Exports . Mining and Minerals DRC Certifies Its First Manono Lithium Cargo . Science and Environment New Monkey Species Discovered in the DRC’s Congo Rainforest . War in Eastern DRC How Rwanda Keeps the FDLR Narrative Alive to Stay in Congo . Geopolitics Africa Biya’s Appointment of His Son Marks Nepotism at the Highest Level . As global mineral security intensifies, institutions capable of sourcing, developing, and financing African minerals while ensuring Africans benefit will become increasingly essential. AFA aims to sit at the forefront of that future for decades to come, and welcomes partners who share this vision. About Launch Africa Capital Manager: Launch Africa Capital Manager is the Managed Accounts Fund division of Launch Africa Ventures, recognized as Africa’s most active early-stage institutional investor. With a presence across 25 African countries, LAC is mandated to drive significant returns and institutional development by mobilizing capital from the global diaspora and international investors. About The Africans for Africa Initiative: The Africans for Africa Initiative (AforA) is a purpose-driven platform focused on indigenous leadership in resource development. Through its dual pillars: The AFA Initiative (Network & Advocacy) and the AFA Fund (Investment Vehicle), AforA promotes African agency, value addition, and resource maximization for sustainable, equitable continental growth. For comments: AFA Media Team: info@afainitiative.org Launch Africa Capital Manager: info@launchafrica.vc ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Import and Export DRC Launches Pepper Task Force for China Exports ANAPEX targets pepper, cocoa, coffee, soy and sesame, but no export deal is signed yet . Mining and Minerals DRC Certifies Its First Manono Lithium Cargo First CEEC-certified lots leave Kalemie as Congo opens a new battery-mineral export trade . Science and Environment New Monkey Species Discovered in the DRC’s Congo Rainforest a rare orange-lipped monkey species found in Lomami National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo . War in Eastern DRC How Rwanda Keeps the FDLR Narrative Alive to Stay in Congo Rwanda cites the FDLR threat to justify its presence in eastern Congo, but past operations...... . Tags Must Read Must Read PRESS RELEASE PRESS RELEASE Africa Africa Pana-Africa Pana-Africa Pan-Africanism Pan-Africanism

Read Aroma Music’s verified biography, from Wakimala and Butida to Yoola, Mpeke, her real name, background and active 2026 career. Aroma Music is a Ugandan singer and songwriter whose catalogue connects Afrobeat, R&B, dancehall and zouk with direct Luganda storytelling. She began releasing professionally in 2019, found early recognition through “Akayimba” and “Butida,” and widened her audience with collaborations including “Yoola” with B2C, “Ombulamu” with Fik Fameica and “Mpeke” with An-Known. Her official X profile carries the same public identity used across her current releases. By 2026, Aroma had moved beyond one breakthrough song into a steady, collaboration-rich career built on romantic writing, energetic performance and patient catalogue growth. Who is Aroma Music? Aroma Music is a Ugandan Afrobeat, R&B, dancehall and zouk singer-songwriter who debuted professionally with “Wakimala” in 2019. She became known through “Butida,” “Akayimba” and “Yoola,” then expanded her audience with “Mbimalanga,” “Ombulamu,” “Mpeke,” “Onfuna” and an active run of 2026 releases. Creative Roots: A Prayerful Home and the First Studio Visit Aroma’s public story begins in a prayerful Born Again household. In a 2021 interview with Uganda’s Daily Monitor , she said relatives called her “Little Pastor” while she was growing up. Her first studio experience was a gospel recording paid for by her mother, an unusually clear piece of evidence about both family support and the direction people around her expected her to take. The path changed when secular Ugandan pop became more compelling. Aroma named Sheebah Karungi and Spice Diana as influences on that turn, placing her ambition inside the female-led Kampala pop movement that was shaping radio, clubs and youth culture. She also described secondary-school friendships and an early holiday job as a receptionist, where she earned a daily wage and bought books, uniforms and other school materials. Credible opened sources do not establish Aroma’s birth date, birthplace, parents’ names or full education history. Those details should not be reconstructed from entertainment databases. What the direct interview does establish is more useful to her creative story: faith remained part of her routine even after her musical direction changed. Before performances, she said she prayed because: “Prayer calms my nerves.” From “Wakimala” to “Butida”: Career Rise and Breakthrough Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Aroma Music Biography: Real Name, Songs & Uganda Rise By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Aug 9, 2026 Aug 9, 2026 13 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Aroma Music is a Ugandan singer and songwriter whose catalogue connects Afrobeat, R&B, dancehall and zouk with direct Luganda storytelling. She began releasing professionally in 2019, found early recognition through “Akayimba” and “Butida,” and widened her audience with collaborations including “Yoola” with B2C, “Ombulamu” with Fik Fameica and “Mpeke” with An-Known. Her official X profile carries the same public identity used across her current releases. By 2026, Aroma had moved beyond one breakthrough song into a steady, collaboration-rich career built on romantic writing, energetic performance and patient catalogue growth. Who is Aroma Music? Aroma Music is a Ugandan Afrobeat, R&B, dancehall and zouk singer-songwriter who debuted professionally with “Wakimala” in 2019. She became known through “Butida,” “Akayimba” and “Yoola,” then expanded her audience with “Mbimalanga,” “Ombulamu,” “Mpeke,” “Onfuna” and an active run of 2026 releases. Creative Roots: A Prayerful Home and the First Studio Visit Aroma’s public story begins in a prayerful Born Again household. In a 2021 interview with Uganda’s Daily Monitor , she said relatives called her “Little Pastor” while she was growing up. Her first studio experience was a gospel recording paid for by her mother, an unusually clear piece of evidence about both family support and the direction people around her expected her to take. The path changed when secular Ugandan pop became more compelling. Aroma named Sheebah Karungi and Spice Diana as influences on that turn, placing her ambition inside the female-led Kampala pop movement that was shaping radio, clubs and youth culture. She also described secondary-school friendships and an early holiday job as a receptionist, where she earned a daily wage and bought books, uniforms and other school materials. Credible opened sources do not establish Aroma’s birth date, birthplace, parents’ names or full education history. Those details should not be reconstructed from entertainment databases. What the direct interview does establish is more useful to her creative story: faith remained part of her routine even after her musical direction changed. Before performances, she said she prayed because: “Prayer calms my nerves.” From “Wakimala” to “Butida”: Career Rise and Breakthrough Aroma’s official YouTube biography dates her professional debut to “Wakimala” in 2019. The record introduced a singer still testing how romance, rhythm and performance could meet. “Mere Yo” followed, while “Akayimba” placed her with VMusic and producer Nessim Pan Production. The clearer public turning point arrived with “Butida.” A contemporary Galaxy FM report on the song’s video credited producer Zuli Tums and director Zyga Phix while presenting Aroma as a promising new female act. Her own official upload later dated the full release to 2020. “Butida” did not create her career from nothing, but it gave the early run a recognisable centre and helped move her name beyond introductory releases. “Akayimba” and “Butida” also established two qualities that remained useful as her catalogue grew: a voice comfortable with affectionate, conversational writing and a stage identity designed for bright pop presentation. Those qualities made collaborations a natural next step rather than a detour. “Yoola,” “Mpeke” and a Collaboration-Led Catalogue The 2021 release “Yoola” became Aroma’s most important early expansion. Its official video with B2C paired her with one of Uganda’s established vocal groups and placed her romantic style inside a larger ensemble performance. The collaboration gave her more reach while preserving her own identity; she was not reduced to a guest line on someone else’s record. ADVERTISEMENT That strategy continued through “New Comer” with Chosen Becky and Grenade Official, “Automatic” with Grenade Official, “Mbimalanga” with Acidic Vokoz and “Ombulamu” with Fik Fameica. XTRAfrica’s Fik Fameica catalogue gives readers a route into the rapper’s wider work, while Aroma’s pairing with him showed how her melodic phrasing could sit against a sharper rap delivery. “Mpeke” with An-Known became the defining digital collaboration of her next phase. The XTRAfrica song page for “Mpeke” identifies the record as a Ugandan Afro-pop love song, and Audiomack dates the release to 6 March 2025. Aroma and An-Known do not compete for the emotional centre; their voices build a conversation, which helps explain why the official video passed four million YouTube views by August 2026. The collaboration also links two catalogues directly. XTRAfrica’s An-Known songs page places “Mpeke” inside his emotionally driven R&B work, while the official Aroma catalogue on XTRAfrica groups it with her own releases “Stone” and “Mpeke.” Selected career achievements Established a professional recording career with “Wakimala” in 2019. Built early recognition through “Akayimba” and “Butida.” Expanded her national audience through “Yoola” with B2C. Worked with Fik Fameica, Acidic Vokoz, Chosen Becky, Grenade Official, An-Known and Winnie Nwagi. Carried the official “Mpeke” video beyond four million YouTube views by August 2026. Sustained the catalogue with “Newadeyo,” “Omudigidi” and “Mulirwana” in 2026. Ugandan Language, Identity and Cultural Belonging Aroma publicly identifies as Ugandan, and her work belongs to a Kampala-centred pop culture where Luganda can carry intimacy without limiting a record’s regional ambition. Her genre description is broad because the songs are broad: Afrobeat provides much of the rhythmic base, R&B supplies romantic softness, dancehall gives some records movement, and zouk appears in the way she shapes melody and tempo. The value of that mix is clearest across contrasting collaborations. “Yoola” uses group chemistry, “Ombulamu” creates a singer-rapper exchange, “Mbimalanga” leans into a gentler duet, and “Mpeke” works as an emotional conversation. Aroma’s identity is therefore not tied to one production formula. It comes through voice, language and a preference for relationships as narrative material. Her current YouTube Music discography reflects that range. It places “Mpeke,” “Ombulamu,” “Mbimalanga,” “Yoola” and “Onfuna” among her leading songs while documenting 2026 singles including “Newadeyo,” “Omudigidi” and “Mulirwana.” Aroma Music Career Timeline and Key Events Year Event Significance 2019 Released debut single “Wakimala” Marked the start of Aroma’s verified professional recording career. 2020 Released “Butida” and “Akayimba” Gave her early catalogue a recognisable identity and stronger public visibility. 2021 Released “Yoola” with B2C Opened the door to a sustained collaboration-led phase. 2023–2024 Added “Mbimalanga,” “Mumasekati” and “Ombulamu” Broadened her sound through duets and a singer-rapper pairing with Fik Fameica. 2025 Released “Mpeke,” “Onfuna” and “Malawo” Delivered her largest current video milestone and connected her with An-Known and Winnie Nwagi. 2026 Released “Newadeyo,” “Omudigidi” and “Mulirwana” Kept her catalogue active while she publicly prioritised depth over rushing into a concert. Faith, Pressure and the Person Behind the Music Aroma’s direct comments show a career shaped by tension rather than a simple rejection of her upbringing. She moved from a gospel beginning to secular pop, yet prayer remained her private preparation for work. Her mother appears in that story both as the person who financed the first studio session and as someone who continued to imagine a faith-based path for her. ADVERTISEMENT The same Daily Monitor interview captured the harder side of the profession: competition, blocked opportunities and the feeling that people could attack an artist without reason. Aroma balanced that frustration with a clearer description of why the work mattered to her: “Seeing different faces every day and loving what I do gives me joy.” That combination pressure acknowledged, performance still enjoyed helps explain why her career has survived beyond the first publicity cycle. It also makes her 2026 decision about a solo concert feel consistent rather than timid. Aroma’s Emerging Impact on Uganda’s Pop Scene Aroma’s impact is best measured through continuity and collaboration, not inflated claims that she transformed Ugandan music alone. She entered a competitive female pop field, built a recognisable voice and became a useful creative partner across different styles. “Yoola” connected her to B2C’s harmonies; “Ombulamu” tested her against rap; “Mpeke” paired two emotionally direct singers; and “Onfuna” joined her with Winnie Nwagi’s larger performance presence. Those records also show a practical route for an independent or developing artist: build audience song by song, use collaborations to explore new chemistry and keep a consistent public channel where the catalogue remains accessible. Her 40,492 Spotify monthly listeners and 235,000 YouTube Music monthly audience in August 2026 are time-sensitive snapshots, not permanent rankings, but they show that her work now travels beyond local video rotation. What Comes Next: Building Before the Big Concert Aroma’s 2026 chapter is active. “Newadeyo” arrived in April, “Omudigidi” with Ssuuna Ben and Mbaziira Tonny followed in May, and “Mulirwana” with Nandor Love appeared in June. No verified studio-album announcement has been published, and the five-track “Tonenya” grouping on YouTube should not be mislabelled as a confirmed studio album. Her clearest forward plan came in an April 2026 Sqoop report on her concert ambitions . Instead of following pressure to headline immediately, she said she wanted enough material to deliver a full performance: “I would first concentrate on building my catalog.” That is the most credible frame for Aroma’s next phase. The goal is not a rushed spectacle but a stronger body of songs capable of carrying one when the time is right. Aroma Music FAQs What is Aroma Music’s real name? Recent Ugandan reporting gives her name as Aroma Kyaverimukama. A 2021 Daily Monitor interview used the spelling Aroma Kyavaerimukama, so the surname has a documented published variation. How old is Aroma Music? A credible opened source did not establish Aroma Music’s exact birth date. Her age should therefore not be guessed from unsourced celebrity databases. Where was Aroma Music born? Aroma is Ugandan, but the strong sources reviewed did not establish a precise birthplace. The article does not infer one from her nationality or Kampala-based 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 Biography Who Was King Oyo? Tooro Monarch Dies at 34 . Crime Prevention Uganda Police Confirm Don Chris Arrest in Job Recruitment scam Case . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Biography Who Is Olara Otunnu? . Health News WHO Confirms Uganda’s 2026 Ebola Outbreak Is Over . What nationality is Aroma Music? Aroma Music is Ugandan. Her professional career, official channels and catalogue consistently identify her with Uganda’s contemporary music scene. Who are Aroma Music’s parents? She has not publicly established her parents’ names in the strongest sources reviewed. She has said her mother paid for her first gospel studio recording and remained an important voice in her faith journey. When did Aroma Music start singing professionally? Her official channel identifies “Wakimala” as her debut single in 2019. “Butida” and “Akayimba” strengthened her public recognition in 2020. Which song made Aroma Music famous? “Butida” was an important early breakthrough, while “Yoola” with B2C broadened her audience. “Mpeke” with An-Known later became her strongest current digital-video milestone. What are Aroma Music’s most popular songs? Her best-known releases include “Butida,” “Akayimba,” “Yoola,” “Nkulinda,” “Mbimalanga,” “Ombulamu,” “Mpeke,” “Onfuna,” “Newadeyo” and “Mulirwana.” Has Aroma Music released an album? No verified studio album appears in her current official discography. Her catalogue is built mainly from singles, collaborations and the five-track “Tonenya” release grouping. Has Aroma Music won any major awards? No major award win was verified through an official award body or strong independent source as of August 2026. Her clearest documented milestones are catalogue growth, collaborations and digital reach. What are Aroma Music’s official social-media accounts? Her official Instagram handle is @aroma_music_official , and her official X/Twitter handle is @aromamusic_ . What are Aroma Music’s latest songs? Her clearly documented 2026 releases include “Newadeyo,” “Omudigidi” with Ssuuna Ben and Mbaziira Tonny, and “Mulirwana” with Nandor Love. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Biography Who Was King Oyo? Tooro Monarch Dies at 34 The Ugandan king spent nearly his entire life on the throne . Crime Prevention Uganda Police Confirm Don Chris Arrest in Job Recruitment scam Case Christian Asiimwe remains in custody as police investigate overseas recruitment allegations. . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Biography Who Is Olara Otunnu? The Ugandan diplomat’s age, career, UN record, family and 2026 secretary-general bid. . Tags Uganda Uganda Aroma Aroma

Scientists have identified Likweli, a rare orange-lipped monkey species found in Lomami National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo Scientists have formally identified a previously undocumented monkey species living in the dense rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, adding another remarkable animal to the country’s globally important natural heritage. The species has been given the scientific name Colobus congoensis . Researchers recommend Likweli as its common name, following the name used by Balanga communities living near its range. The discovery was described in a peer-reviewed study published in PLOS ONE on 15 July 2026 . It is only the fifth new African monkey species discovered from a population previously unknown to science during the past 75 years. The animal was not “created” or newly arrived in the forest. It had lived there for generations and was known to a small number of local residents. What is new is its formal scientific identification as a species distinct from every other known monkey. Meet Likweli, the orange-lipped monkey Likweli has glossy black fur, a long tail and distinctive orange-cream markings around its mouth and nose. Long black hairs frame its face, while large folded ears and a white patch beneath its tail help distinguish it from related colobus monkeys. It is smaller than many of its relatives, weighing approximately 6.8 kilograms, or about 15 pounds. Researchers most often observed the monkeys in small groups averaging around six animals. The species lives high in closed-canopy forest in and around Lomami National Park, between the Lomami and Congo, or Lualaba, rivers in east-central DRC. Its known range covers only about 1,700 square kilometres. This remote habitat and the animal’s quiet behaviour helped it remain outside the formal scientific record for so long. The discovery began with a photograph in 2008 Continue Reading Full Article SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT New Monkey Species Discovered in the DRC’s Congo Rainforest By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jul 16, 2026 Aug 5, 2026 10 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Scientists have formally identified a previously undocumented monkey species living in the dense rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, adding another remarkable animal to the country’s globally important natural heritage. The species has been given the scientific name Colobus congoensis . Researchers recommend Likweli as its common name, following the name used by Balanga communities living near its range. The discovery was described in a peer-reviewed study published in PLOS ONE on 15 July 2026 . It is only the fifth new African monkey species discovered from a population previously unknown to science during the past 75 years. The animal was not “created” or newly arrived in the forest. It had lived there for generations and was known to a small number of local residents. What is new is its formal scientific identification as a species distinct from every other known monkey. Meet Likweli, the orange-lipped monkey Likweli has glossy black fur, a long tail and distinctive orange-cream markings around its mouth and nose. Long black hairs frame its face, while large folded ears and a white patch beneath its tail help distinguish it from related colobus monkeys. Pic: Daniel Rosengren It is smaller than many of its relatives, weighing approximately 6.8 kilograms, or about 15 pounds. Researchers most often observed the monkeys in small groups averaging around six animals. The species lives high in closed-canopy forest in and around Lomami National Park, between the Lomami and Congo, or Lualaba, rivers in east-central DRC. Its known range covers only about 1,700 square kilometres. This remote habitat and the animal’s quiet behaviour helped it remain outside the formal scientific record for so long. The discovery began with a photograph in 2008 The first recorded evidence emerged in 2008 when conservationists Ashley Vosper and Bernard Ikembelo photographed an unidentified monkey during an expedition by the Lukuru Wildlife Research Foundation. The animal was high in the forest canopy in an area that later became part of Lomami National Park. The photograph showed only part of the monkey, but the field team suspected that it did not match any species already documented in the area. ADVERTISEMENT Pic:Science alert There were no further confirmed reports for approximately ten years. In November 2018, Jean-Pierre Kapale led a surveillance patrol in the park’s Courbure Sector and photographed a black monkey with pale facial markings and a white patch beneath its tail. Kapale and local field assistants subsequently documented the animal at seven additional locations over the following ten months. Researchers then reviewed photographs collected during earlier patrols and discovered another image taken in August 2018 that had initially been misidentified. Between 2018 and 2022, field teams eventually recorded 114 observations across the species’ limited range. How scientists proved it was a separate species A different appearance alone is not always enough to establish a new species. The research team therefore examined several independent forms of evidence. Physical evidence Researchers studied the monkey’s body size, fur, facial markings, skull and teeth. Its orange-cream mouth patch, smaller body and other anatomical characteristics separated it from known members of the Colobus genus. Genetic evidence DNA analysis confirmed that Likweli belongs to the Colobus group but represents a distinct evolutionary lineage. Its closest known relative is the black colobus, Colobus satanas , whose present range is more than 1,200 kilometres away in west-central Africa. The genetic evidence indicates that their ancestral lineages separated approximately five million years ago. Vocal evidence The team also studied recordings of the monkey’s deep calls. Although some features resemble the calls of the black colobus, the sequence and frequency of Likweli’s vocalisations have their own acoustic pattern. The combination of anatomical, genetic and sound evidence gave the researchers confidence that they were dealing with a separate species. Local knowledge was essential The discovery also demonstrates why local knowledge remains important to modern science. ADVERTISEMENT Researchers interviewed people in 52 settlements around the animal’s known habitat. Residents in only eight locations could accurately describe it, showing how rare and difficult to observe the monkey is even within its home range. Balanga communities west of the Lomami River used the name Likweli . Mituku communities near the eastern limit of its range called it kasaba nkoni , meaning “the branch shaker.” The peer-reviewed paper uses “Balanga,” correcting some early media reports that wrote “Bangala.” Congolese naturalists, community monitors, park personnel and eco-guards carried out much of the difficult fieldwork. The research was authorised by the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation, known as ICCN. Lead author John Hart said the discovery could not have happened without Congolese explorer-naturalists who recognised an unfamiliar animal and completed extensive surveys across trackless forest. A name connected directly to the DRC The scientific name Colobus congoensis recognises the fact that the species’ known range is limited to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Congolese biologist Junior Amboko, a co-corresponding author of the study, said the name honours the Congo Basin’s natural heritage and underlines the country’s importance to global biodiversity research. Researchers believe it may be the first primate formally named specifically for the Democratic Republic of Congo. They recommend retaining Likweli as the common name in recognition of the communities familiar with the animal. The same DRC forests revealed the Lesula monkey Likweli is not the first major primate discovery from the wider Lomami landscape. In 2007, researchers encountered another monkey known locally as the Lesula in the middle Lomami Basin. Scientists formally described it as Cercopithecus lomamiensis in a PLOS ONE study published in 2012 . The Lesula is restricted to the lowland forests between the middle Lomami and upper Tshuapa rivers. Physical and molecular analysis showed that it was distinct from its closest known relative, Hamlyn’s monkey. 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 Science and Environment New Monkey Species Discovered in the DRC’s Congo Rainforest . Several scientists involved in the Lesula research also helped identify Likweli. The two discoveries, separated by 14 years of scientific publication, strengthen the case that the central Congo Basin remains one of the world’s most important—and still incompletely documented—regions for mammal research. They also show that the rivers of the Congo Basin can act as natural barriers. Over long periods, isolated animal populations can follow separate evolutionary paths and eventually become distinct species. Scientists recommend endangered status The excitement surrounding the discovery comes with an urgent conservation warning. Likweli occupies a small area, appears to have a limited population and depends on particular patches of high, closed-canopy forest. Researchers identified habitat conversion and increased hunting pressure as major risks. The scientific paper proposes a preliminary classification of Endangered under International Union for Conservation of Nature criteria. This is a research recommendation; it should not be reported as a completed formal IUCN Red List assessment unless the IUCN publishes one. Researchers say protecting Lomami National Park, limiting habitat destruction and working with nearby communities to prevent hunting will be essential to the species’ survival. Why the discovery matters for the DRC The identification of Colobus congoensis is a scientific achievement with national and international importance. It highlights the extraordinary biodiversity protected inside the DRC’s rainforests. It also recognises the contribution of Congolese researchers, eco-guards, field assistants and communities whose knowledge made the discovery possible. The finding may encourage further scientific research, responsible conservation investment and greater global interest in Lomami National Park. However, attention must be matched by support for the people protecting the forest and by measures addressing hunting and habitat loss. Likweli’s formal identification shows that the Congo rainforest still holds biological secrets. It also delivers a clear message: species can disappear before science has even had the opportunity to understand them. Reporting and research credits Primary scientific study: John A. Hart, Junior D. Amboko, Julia L. Arenson, Emma R. Horton, Kathryn F. Coates, Jean-Pierre I. Kapale, Mardoché B. Koko, Terese B. Hart, Christopher C. Gilbert, Eric J. Sargis and Kate M. Detwiler. “ Likweli: A remarkable new species of Colobus monkey from the Lomami National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo .” PLOS ONE , 15 July 2026. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0349857. Original supplied news source: Jess Cockerill. “ Entirely New Monkey Species Discovered in The Congo Rainforest, And It Doesn't Look Impressed .” ScienceAlert , 16 July 2026. Research institution: Florida Atlantic University. “ New Species of African Monkey Discovered in the Congo Rainforest ,” 15 July 2026. Supporting institutional account: Yale University. “ Meet ‘Likweli’: A new monkey species discovered in the Congo Basin ,” 15 July 2026. Supporting DRC discovery: John A. Hart and colleagues. “ Lesula: A New Species of Cercopithecus Monkey Endemic to the Democratic Republic of Congo .” PLOS ONE , 12 September 2012. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0044271. Congolese conservation authority: Fieldwork was conducted with authorisation from the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation. The published study credits Balanga and Mituku communities, Congolese explorer-naturalists, ICCN personnel, park staff and local field teams. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Science and Environment New Monkey Species Discovered in the DRC’s Congo Rainforest a rare orange-lipped monkey species found in Lomami National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo . Tags Science and Environment Science and Environment Must Read Must Read DR.Congo DR.Congo

Read Marina Deborah’s biography: age, real-name record, Rwandan roots, hit songs, career, 2026 music and engagement to Yvan Muziki. Marina is a Rwandan singer and songwriter whose voice moves easily between R&B, Afro-soul, Afropop and Afrobeat. Raised in Rwamagana and shaped by church choirs, she entered professional music in 2016 before building a catalogue around romance, regret, self-respect and emotional recovery. Songs including “Byarara Bibaye,” “Log Out,” “Decision,” “Ndabazi,” “Ndarahira” and “Paje” established her as a distinctive female voice in Rwanda’s modern pop scene. By 2026, she was opening a more independent chapter, creating new music and publicly separating her present career from an old management relationship. Who is Marina? Marina Deborah is a Rwandan R&B and Afropop singer from Rwamagana. She began professional music in 2016 after winning a radio singing competition, rose with “Byarara Bibaye,” and developed a decade-long catalogue of emotionally direct songs and East African collaborations. Artistic Craft: The Emotional Voice Behind Marina’s Music Marina’s strongest records are not held together by one production style. They are connected by the way she presents emotion. Her singing can be soft and conversational in a love song, then sharper when the subject becomes betrayal, regret or personal boundaries. That flexibility has allowed her to work across R&B, Afro-soul, Afropop, hip-hop and dance-oriented music without losing the impression that the song begins with a feeling. Her XTRAfrica songs page currently centres “I’m Sorry,” a remorseful R&B-influenced recording in Kinyarwanda and English. Elsewhere, “Log Out” uses the language of digital disconnection to discuss a relationship, while “Decision” and “Ndarahira” place difficult choices at the centre of the story. Marina’s sound is therefore less about inventing a new genre than giving familiar East African pop forms a recognisable emotional character. That quality has made her especially effective in collaborations. She has recorded with Kidum, Harmonize, Ykee Benda, Queen Cha, Social Mula, Safi Madiba, Amalon, Alyn Sano, Bushali and others. The range matters: it shows a vocalist able to carry a chorus, share a romantic duet or provide melodic balance beside rap voices. In 2025, Khalfan described Marina as an exceptional chorus singer when discussing their Rwanda-centred collaboration “We Made It” in an InyaRwanda interview . Formative Life: From Rwamagana Choirs to a Radio Break Marina was born on 28 August 1997 in Rwamagana District, Eastern Province. A detailed 2021 InyaRwanda profile reports that she was the eldest of two children and grew up with both parents before moving to Kigali. Their names are not established strongly enough in dependable public records to include. Music began in church. As a child, she sang with the Intama za Yesu choir at ADEPR and later joined the Azaph choir at Zion Temple. She studied accounting at ESSA Nyarugunga in Kanombe, but a radio competition supplied the practical opening into music. In November 2016, she won an Airtel-backed contest on Kiss FM after performing a cover of Yvan Buravan’s “Urwo Ngukunda.” Uncle Austin, who was involved with the programme, became an early guide in her career. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Marina Biography: Age, Songs, Fiancé & Rwandan R&B Career By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Aug 2, 2026 Aug 2, 2026 10 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Marina is a Rwandan singer and songwriter whose voice moves easily between R&B, Afro-soul, Afropop and Afrobeat. Raised in Rwamagana and shaped by church choirs, she entered professional music in 2016 before building a catalogue around romance, regret, self-respect and emotional recovery. Songs including “Byarara Bibaye,” “Log Out,” “Decision,” “Ndabazi,” “Ndarahira” and “Paje” established her as a distinctive female voice in Rwanda’s modern pop scene. By 2026, she was opening a more independent chapter, creating new music and publicly separating her present career from an old management relationship. Who is Marina? Marina Deborah is a Rwandan R&B and Afropop singer from Rwamagana. She began professional music in 2016 after winning a radio singing competition, rose with “Byarara Bibaye,” and developed a decade-long catalogue of emotionally direct songs and East African collaborations. Artistic Craft: The Emotional Voice Behind Marina’s Music Marina’s strongest records are not held together by one production style. They are connected by the way she presents emotion. Her singing can be soft and conversational in a love song, then sharper when the subject becomes betrayal, regret or personal boundaries. That flexibility has allowed her to work across R&B, Afro-soul, Afropop, hip-hop and dance-oriented music without losing the impression that the song begins with a feeling. Her XTRAfrica songs page currently centres “I’m Sorry,” a remorseful R&B-influenced recording in Kinyarwanda and English. Elsewhere, “Log Out” uses the language of digital disconnection to discuss a relationship, while “Decision” and “Ndarahira” place difficult choices at the centre of the story. Marina’s sound is therefore less about inventing a new genre than giving familiar East African pop forms a recognisable emotional character. That quality has made her especially effective in collaborations. She has recorded with Kidum, Harmonize, Ykee Benda, Queen Cha, Social Mula, Safi Madiba, Amalon, Alyn Sano, Bushali and others. The range matters: it shows a vocalist able to carry a chorus, share a romantic duet or provide melodic balance beside rap voices. In 2025, Khalfan described Marina as an exceptional chorus singer when discussing their Rwanda-centred collaboration “We Made It” in an InyaRwanda interview . Formative Life: From Rwamagana Choirs to a Radio Break Marina was born on 28 August 1997 in Rwamagana District, Eastern Province. A detailed 2021 InyaRwanda profile reports that she was the eldest of two children and grew up with both parents before moving to Kigali. Their names are not established strongly enough in dependable public records to include. Music began in church. As a child, she sang with the Intama za Yesu choir at ADEPR and later joined the Azaph choir at Zion Temple. She studied accounting at ESSA Nyarugunga in Kanombe, but a radio competition supplied the practical opening into music. In November 2016, she won an Airtel-backed contest on Kiss FM after performing a cover of Yvan Buravan’s “Urwo Ngukunda.” Uncle Austin, who was involved with the programme, became an early guide in her career. The name record requires care. Current entertainment reporting widely identifies her as Marina Deborah or Ingabire Deborah , while the 2021 biographical profile says her parents named her Uwase Ingabire . Because both forms appear in established Rwandan coverage, this biography uses Marina Deborah the professional identity she currently presents without pretending the public record is perfectly uniform. “Byarara Bibaye” and the First Breakthrough Her first widely documented solo release was “Byarara Bibaye” in 2017, recorded after the radio competition. It gave listeners an immediate point of recognition and was followed by work such as “Bikakubera” and the multi-artist track “Too Much.” A 2018 New Times profile described her as having started the journey at the beginning of 2016 and already looking beyond Rwanda’s borders. ADVERTISEMENT Marina later joined Bad Rama’s The Mane Music as the label’s first artist. The relationship expanded the scale and consistency of her releases. “Ni Wowe,” “Madede,” “Kora,” “Like That,” “Tubisubiremo,” “Karibu,” “Decision” and “Log Out” arrived during the period, while collaborations connected her to other markets. “Love You” with Tanzania’s Harmonize and “Mbwira” with Burundi’s Kidum were particularly useful cross-border steps. Recognition followed even when trophies did not. The 2019 Salax Awards record shows Marina nominated for both Best Upcoming Artist and Best Female Artist. Buravan and Queen Cha won those categories respectively. The distinction matters because nomination is evidence of her place in the national conversation, but it should not be rewritten as an award victory. Collaborations, Independence and a Wider East African Reach Marina’s career has repeatedly advanced through collaboration. “Do Me” with Queen Cha brought two leading Rwandan women together. “True Love” paired her with Safi Madiba, while “Amabara” placed her beside Amalon, Bushali, B-Threy and Alyn Sano. These records connected melodic R&B with Rwanda’s newer hip-hop and alternative pop circles. In January 2024, she released “Ndokose” with Ugandan singer Ykee Benda. Marina told InyaRwanda that she had wanted the collaboration since around 2019 and finally completed it after learning that he was in Rwanda. The five-year wait illustrates a patient regional strategy rather than an accidental feature. The management story was less linear. Marina and The Mane experienced public disagreements, reconciliations and changing working arrangements. By April 2026, she issued a firm statement ending every professional and personal association with Bad Rama. In InyaRwanda’s report on that statement , she objected to her name and photographs being used in his public activities. “My heart and loyalty belong to Rwanda and its leadership.” The statement placed ownership of her name, public image and future direction back in her hands. It also closed a long-running story that had sometimes distracted from the music. Achievements: Songs, Nominations and Milestones Marina has not released a verified studio album. Her career has instead been built through singles and collaborations released steadily across several years. That catalogue is broad enough to show development without inflating a collection of songs into an album history. Major verified achievements include: Beginning professional music through a competitive radio performance rather than an inherited industry position. Earning two Salax Awards nominations in 2019: Best Upcoming Artist and Best Female Artist. Building cross-border collaborations with artists from Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and Uganda. Maintaining an active recording career from 2016 through 2026. Becoming a dependable melodic collaborator across R&B, Afropop and hip-hop projects. Continuing independently after several changes in management. ADVERTISEMENT Marina Career Timeline Personal Journey: Growth, Love and Yvan Muziki Marina has spoken publicly about emotional experience when it directly informed her music. In a May 2025 interview about “Ndarahira” , she described leaving a four-year relationship she considered manipulative and emotionally damaging. Her emphasis was not on naming the former partner, but on recovery and a healthier standard for love. “Love isn’t my priority right now. At this moment, I’m focusing on myself and growth.” Her circumstances later changed publicly. On 14 February 2026, singer Yvan Muziki proposed during his Kigali homecoming concert and album launch. The New Times reported that the couple had been dating since 2023. XTRAfrica’s account of Marina’s reaction records that she had not expected the proposal. The relationship also became part of their creative work. Marina contributed to Yvan Muziki’s 17-track Inganzo Ntahangarwa album and performed with him at the launch. In July 2026, the pair released “NDATUNGUWE,” a duet whose official video extended that musical partnership. Engagement confirms an intention to marry, but it is not the same as a completed wedding; this biography therefore identifies Yvan Muziki as her fiancé. Rwandan Heritage and Identity in Marina’s Music Her wider influence is visible in collaboration rather than a single continental hit. Marina has connected Rwanda’s singers, rappers and producers with musicians from surrounding markets while keeping Kinyarwanda at the centre of much of her work. She has also made vulnerability useful: heartbreak and regret are not publicity accessories in her songs but recurring narrative tools. Emerging Impact: Durability Beyond a Single Hit Marina’s emerging impact lies in durability. Rwanda’s pop industry has changed significantly since 2016, yet she has remained visible through label changes, shifting collaborators and a singles-led market. Her church-trained voice, willingness to work across genres and emotional openness have helped her occupy a space between mainstream Afropop and R&B storytelling. The 2025 single “Paje” also forced her to defend authorship. When another musician claimed the song, Marina said she had recorded it years earlier with Passy Kizito. XTRAfrica’s report on the dispute documented her account and her manager’s response. The episode was not an artistic achievement, but it revealed the importance of song ownership, documentation and control for an independent artist. The Next Chapter After “NDATUNGUWE” Marina’s verified direction in 2026 is continued recording under greater personal control. The July release of “NDATUNGUWE” on her official YouTube channel shows that her partnership with Yvan Muziki is both personal and musical. No studio album, tour or wedding date should be announced without a formal statement. The next test is catalogue organisation. After a decade of singles, an album could give listeners a clearer view of Marina’s artistic growth, but it remains only a possibility until she confirms one. What is already established is a body of work built through emotional directness, cross-border collaboration and repeated professional reinvention. Marina FAQs What is Marina’s real name? She is professionally known as Marina Deborah. Rwandan sources also use Ingabire Deborah, while a detailed 2021 profile records Uwase Ingabire as the name given by her parents. The public record is not completely uniform. 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% . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Rwanda Politics Kagame Sides With Journalist Against His Own Foreign Minister . War in DR Congo DRC Accuses RDF and AFC/M23 of Killings, Torture and Abductions . How old is Marina? Marina is 28 years old as of 2 August 2026. She was born on 28 August 1997 and will turn 29 later in the month. Where is Marina from? She was born and raised in Rwamagana District in Rwanda’s Eastern Province before moving to Kigali. What is Marina’s nationality? Marina is Rwandan. What music does Marina make? She performs R&B, Afro-soul, Afropop and Afrobeat, often singing in Kinyarwanda and English. Which song made Marina famous? “Byarara Bibaye,” released in 2017, was her first major solo breakthrough. “Log Out,” “Decision,” “Ndabazi,” “Brigade,” “Ndarahira” and “Paje” later strengthened her catalogue. Has Marina released an album? No verified Marina studio album had been released by 2 August 2026. Her professional catalogue is mainly singles and collaborations. Has Marina won a Salax Award? No Salax win is verified. She was nominated for Best Upcoming Artist and Best Female Artist in 2019; Buravan and Queen Cha won those categories. Is Marina married to Yvan Muziki? No completed marriage had been publicly confirmed by 2 August 2026. Yvan Muziki proposed on 14 February 2026, making him Marina’s fiancé. When did Marina start music? She entered professional music in 2016 after winning a Kiss FM singing competition and released “Byarara Bibaye” in 2017. What is Marina doing in 2026? She ended her remaining association with former adviser Bad Rama, continued independent music work and released “NDATUNGUWE” with Yvan Muziki in July 2026. 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. . 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, . Rwanda Politics Kagame Sides With Journalist Against His Own Foreign Minister Kagame said Olivier Nduhungirehe, not journalist Scovia Umutesi, should have apologized. . Tags Rwanda Rwanda Marina Marina

Top diplomats from France, Germany, and the European Union are rallying to intensify support for Sudan during a crucial conference in Paris, marking one year since the outbreak of the devastating conflict in the African nation. French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné, alongside German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell, and Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič, spearhead the funding initiative. The conference aims to address the dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan, triggered on April 15, 2023, by clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The ongoing violence has dismantled infrastructure, raised the specter of famine, and displaced millions both within and beyond Sudan's borders. Despite the escalating needs, international funding has fallen short. "The international response has been pitiful. We're at 5% of the needed amount," stated U.S. Special Envoy Tom Perriello, emphasizing the urgency for increased contributions. The U.S. has pledged an additional $100 million, boosting its total commitment to over $1 billion in humanitarian aid. The meeting will culminate with French President Emmanuel Macron engaging EU leaders Borrell and Lenarčič to further discuss the support measures. With thousands of civilian casualties and accusations of war crimes on both sides, the international community's consolidated efforts at the Paris conference underscore a pivotal moment in global diplomacy and humanitarian advocacy for Sudan. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 15, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell Top diplomats from France, Germany, and the European Union are rallying to intensify support for Sudan during a crucial conference in Paris, marking one year since the outbreak of the devastating conflict in the African nation. French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné, alongside German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell, and Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič, spearhead the funding initiative. ADVERTISEMENT The conference aims to address the dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan, triggered on April 15, 2023, by clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The ongoing violence has dismantled infrastructure, raised the specter of famine, and displaced millions both within and beyond Sudan's borders. Despite the escalating needs, international funding has fallen short. "The international response has been pitiful. We're at 5% of the needed amount," stated U.S. Special Envoy Tom Perriello, emphasizing the urgency for increased contributions. The U.S. has pledged an additional $100 million, boosting its total commitment to over $1 billion in humanitarian aid. ADVERTISEMENT The meeting will culminate with French President Emmanuel Macron engaging EU leaders Borrell and Lenarčič to further discuss the support measures. With thousands of civilian casualties and accusations of war crimes on both sides, the international community's consolidated efforts at the Paris conference underscore a pivotal moment in global diplomacy and humanitarian advocacy for Sudan. 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

Hadza microbiome studies reveal seasonal gut diversity, fiber-linked microbes, and clues about industrialized disease risk. The phrase “the world’s healthiest gut” makes a strong headline. It is memorable, clickable, and easy to understand. But the science behind the Hadza microbiome is more careful than that. Researchers have not proved that the Hadza have the healthiest gut in the world. What they have shown is still remarkable: Hadza gut microbiomes studied in northern Tanzania are more diverse than some industrialized comparison groups, change with the seasons, and include microbial lineages that are rare or missing in many industrialized populations. That makes the Hadza important to modern health research. Their gut bacteria do not offer a simple cure for obesity, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or heart disease. But they do challenge one of the quiet assumptions of industrial life: that the modern gut is normal. Who Are the Hadza? The Hadza are an Indigenous people of northern Tanzania, especially associated with the Lake Eyasi region. In Demography and Evolutionary Ecology of Hadza Hunter-Gatherers, Nicholas Blurton Jones describes Hadza life around the “rocky hills in the eastern rift valley near Lake Eyasi” (Blurton Jones, 2016, p. 3). For generations, many Hadza families have relied on hunting wild animals and gathering plant foods. Blurton Jones writes that most Hadza in his research period acquired the bulk of their food by “hunting wild animals and gathering wild plants” (Blurton Jones, 2016, p. 4). This matters because the Hadza microbiome cannot be separated from Hadza food systems, movement, land, and seasonal ecology. The gut is not only a medical organ. It is also an ecological record. Further Reading Nicholas Blurton Jones (2016) Demography and Evolutionary Ecology of Hadza Hunter-Gatherers Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Inside the World’s Healthiest Gut: Hadza Microbiome Lessons By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jun 28, 2026 Jun 29, 2026 15 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The phrase “the world’s healthiest gut” makes a strong headline. It is memorable, clickable, and easy to understand. But the science behind the Hadza microbiome is more careful than that. Researchers have not proved that the Hadza have the healthiest gut in the world. What they have shown is still remarkable: Hadza gut microbiomes studied in northern Tanzania are more diverse than some industrialized comparison groups, change with the seasons, and include microbial lineages that are rare or missing in many industrialized populations. A Hadza hunter from northern Tanzania eats wild honey, a traditional food that helps scientists study the tribe's diverse gut microbiome and its potential links to modern health. That makes the Hadza important to modern health research. Their gut bacteria do not offer a simple cure for obesity, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or heart disease. But they do challenge one of the quiet assumptions of industrial life: that the modern gut is normal. Who Are the Hadza? The Hadza are an Indigenous people of northern Tanzania, especially associated with the Lake Eyasi region. In Demography and Evolutionary Ecology of Hadza Hunter-Gatherers, Nicholas Blurton Jones describes Hadza life around the “rocky hills in the eastern rift valley near Lake Eyasi” (Blurton Jones, 2016, p. 3). Hadza hunters practice traditional archery in northern Tanzania, where hunting, wild foods, and a high-fiber diet have helped shape one of the world's most diverse gut microbiomes. For generations, many Hadza families have relied on hunting wild animals and gathering plant foods. Blurton Jones writes that most Hadza in his research period acquired the bulk of their food by “hunting wild animals and gathering wild plants” (Blurton Jones, 2016, p. 4). This matters because the Hadza microbiome cannot be separated from Hadza food systems, movement, land, and seasonal ecology. The gut is not only a medical organ. It is also an ecological record. Further Reading Nicholas Blurton Jones (2016) Demography and Evolutionary Ecology of Hadza Hunter-Gatherers Relevant pages: Introduction, pp. 3–4 What Researchers Found in the Hadza Gut In 2014, Stephanie Schnorr and colleagues published one of the key Hadza microbiome studies in Nature Communications. The researchers analyzed fecal microbiota from 27 Hadza hunter-gatherers and compared them with 16 urban Italian adults. Their finding was clear: the Hadza had “higher levels of microbial richness and biodiversity” than the Italian urban controls (Schnorr et al., 2014, p. 1). The study also reported that the Hadza diet consisted of five main wild food categories: meat, honey, baobab, berries, and tubers (Schnorr et al., 2014, p. 2). This does not mean every Hadza person has the same microbiome. It also does not mean Italian or Western microbiomes are simply “bad.” But it does show that the studied Hadza gut ecosystem was richer and more varied than the industrialized comparison group. The same paper also found major differences in microbial composition. Hadza samples were enriched in groups such as Prevotella and Treponema, while Bifidobacterium was almost absent or depleted compared with the Italian controls (Schnorr et al., 2014, pp. 2–3). That is important because Bifidobacterium is often marketed as a sign of gut health in industrialized settings. The Hadza data show that “healthy” cannot be reduced to one universal bacterial checklist. A microbe that looks beneficial in one food system may not play the same role in another. Further Reading Schnorr et al. (2014) Gut microbiome of the Hadza hunter-gatherers Relevant pages: 1–3, 7 ADVERTISEMENT A Gut That Changes With the Seasons The most striking Hadza microbiome evidence came from Samuel Smits and colleagues in a 2017 Science study. The researchers examined 350 stool samples collected over more than a year from Hadza participants in Tanzania. Wild Meat: Protein From the Hunt They found what they called an “annual cyclic reconfiguration of the microbiome” (Smits et al., 2017, p. 1). In simple terms, some gut microbes became hard to detect in one season and then returned in another. This is one of the most important lessons from the Hadza research. In industrialized health culture, people often imagine the ideal gut as stable and unchanging. The Hadza findings suggest something different: a resilient gut may be one that can shift with food, season, and environment. Smits et al. explain that Hadza activity and diet follow seasonal patterns. Berry foraging and honey consumption are more common during the wet season, while hunting is more successful during the dry season. Tubers and baobab are eaten year-round (Smits et al., 2017, p. 2). The gut changed with that rhythm. Dry-season microbiomes showed greater phylogenetic diversity and more unique operational taxonomic units than wet-season microbiomes (Smits et al., 2017, p. 3). Bacteroidetes, especially Prevotellaceae, declined during the wet season, while other taxa showed different patterns of seasonal stability or disappearance (Smits et al., 2017, pp. 3–4). That finding gives modern readers a different way to think about the gut. The microbiome is not just shaped by “good foods” and “bad foods.” It is shaped by ecological variety. Further Reading Smits et al. (2017) Seasonal Cycling in the Gut Microbiome of the Hadza Hunter-Gatherers of Tanzania Relevant pages: 1–5 Fiber Is Food for Microbes One of the safest lessons from the Hadza research is the importance of complex plant foods. In the 2014 study, Schnorr et al. argued that Hadza gut microbes may help them “digest and extract valuable nutrition from fibrous plant foods” (Schnorr et al., 2014, p. 1). This is more than a basic point about digestion. Humans cannot break down many complex plant carbohydrates on their own. Gut microbes help convert those materials into useful compounds, including short-chain fatty acids. Schnorr et al. reported that the Hadza gut showed features consistent with a heavily plant-based diet, including enrichment in Prevotella, Treponema, and unclassified microbial groups with potential fiber-degrading roles (Schnorr et al., 2014, p. 7). The study also notes that Hadza tubers are available and exploited year-round, even though they are ranked lower than some preferred foods (Schnorr et al., 2014, p. 7). This helps explain why the Hadza microbiome has attracted attention in modern disease research. Many industrialized diets are low in microbiota-accessible carbohydrates. Highly processed foods can be energy-dense but poor in the complex fibers that feed a diverse microbial ecosystem. The Hadza evidence does not prove that fiber alone prevents modern disease. Insufficient evidence found. But it does support a more specific claim: gut microbes respond to complex plant foods, and industrialized diets may reduce the ecological support that some microbes need. Vanishing Microbes and Industrialized Life In 2023, Matthew Carter and colleagues published a major Cell study using ultra-deep metagenomic sequencing of Hadza fecal samples. The study compared Hadza samples with populations in Nepal and California. ADVERTISEMENT The researchers identified “124 gut-resident species vanishing in industrialized populations” (Carter et al., 2023, p. 3111). They also recovered 91,662 genomes of bacteria, archaea, bacteriophages, and eukaryotes, with 44% absent from existing unified datasets (Carter et al., 2023, p. 3111). This is a major finding, but it must be handled carefully. “Vanishing” does not automatically mean every missing species is beneficial. It also does not prove that restoring those microbes would prevent disease. What it does show is that industrialized lifestyles are associated with a major shift in the human gut ecosystem. Carter et al. also reported that industrialized gut microbes were enriched in genes associated with oxidative stress, which may reflect microbial adaptation to inflammatory processes (Carter et al., 2023, p. 3111). That points toward a possible connection between industrialization, inflammation, and microbial change, but it is not proof of direct causation. The responsible conclusion is not that Hadza microbes are magic. It is that modern gut ecosystems may be missing microbial lineages that were once more common in human populations. Further Reading Carter et al. (2023) Ultra-deep sequencing of Hadza hunter-gatherers recovers vanishing gut microbes Relevant pages: 3111–3124.e13 What This Means for Modern Disease Modern diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and inflammatory bowel disease are often discussed through diet, exercise, genetics, and environment. The Hadza microbiome adds another layer: microbial ecology. A 2016 metabolome study by Silvia Turroni and colleagues compared Hadza fecal metabolites with urban Italian controls. The authors reported that rainy-season Hadza samples showed enrichment in hexoses, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and acylcarnitines, while being depleted in many common amino acids and derivatives (Turroni et al., 2016, pp. 1–2). The study suggested that Hadza fecal metabolome patterns may reflect a gut ecosystem less rich in factors connected to inflammation-based Western diseases. But the authors were careful. They stated that whether Hadza participants actually had lower inflammation than the Italian cohort “still remains to be investigated” (Turroni et al., 2016, p. 6). That sentence is essential. The Hadza microbiome does not prove a cure for modern disease. It gives scientists clues about what industrialized life may have changed: microbial diversity, fiber-processing capacity, seasonal flexibility, and the presence or absence of certain gut lineages. Hadza microbiome studies raise serious questions about whether industrialized diets and environments have narrowed the microbial ecosystems that help regulate metabolism and immune function. Further Reading Turroni et al. (2016) Fecal metabolome of the Hadza hunter-gatherers Relevant pages: 1–2, 6 The Exercise Story Is Also More Complicated Hadza research also complicates the common idea that modern disease is only caused by laziness or inactivity. In a 2012 PLOS ONE study, Herman Pontzer and colleagues measured daily energy expenditure among Hadza adults using the doubly labeled water method. The Hadza were physically active, but their average daily energy expenditure was not significantly higher than Westerners after controlling for body size (Pontzer et al., 2012). 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 . This finding matters for obesity debates. It suggests that modern disease cannot be explained only by people moving less. Food quality, processing, energy density, fiber loss, microbial change, sleep, stress, and inflammation may all be part of the story. The Hadza are not a simple model to copy. They are evidence that human health works through systems. The Hadza Are Not a Wellness Trend There is a real danger in writing about the Hadza microbiome: turning a living people into a health metaphor.The Hadza are not a diet brand. They are a contemporary Indigenous community facing land pressure, market contact, tourism, government interventions, and nutrition transition. Different Hadza individuals and camps may have different exposure to market foods, medicines, processed foods, and foraging opportunities. It is misleading to write as if every Hadza person today has the same gut profile recorded in earlier studies. The better approach is respect and precision: in the studied Hadza samples, researchers found distinctive patterns of microbial diversity, seasonality, and fiber-linked functions. What Modern Readers Can Learn The Hadza microbiome does not tell modern readers to imitate Hadza life. Most people cannot and should not try to recreate another people’s food system. But the research does offer clear lessons. First, microbial diversity matters. A gut ecosystem shaped by many wild foods, seasonal change, and environmental exposure can look very different from one shaped by repetitive industrial diets. Second, fiber is not just roughage. It is microbial food. Diets low in complex plant carbohydrates may reduce support for microbes that depend on them. Third, stability is not the only sign of health. The Hadza gut shows seasonal change. That may be part of resilience, not a problem. Fourth, industrialized disease may have microbial dimensions. The disappearance or reduction of certain microbes may be one part of a larger story involving processed foods, antibiotics, sanitation, land separation, and reduced ecological exposure. Finally, the Hadza research should produce humility. The modern gut may not be the default human gut. It may be a narrowed version of what human microbial life can be. The Hadza gut is not a miracle cure. It is a scientific mirror. It reflects how different the human microbiome can look when shaped by seasonal foods, wild plant fibers, movement, and environmental contact. It also reflects what industrialized life may have reduced: microbial diversity, ecological flexibility, and some gut-resident species that once may have been more common. The strongest lesson is not to romanticize the Hadza. It is to take the evidence seriously. Modern disease may not begin only in calories, genes, or exercise habits. Part of the story may begin in the quiet loss of microbial worlds inside us. Other references: Nature Communications: Gut microbiome of the Hadza hunter-gatherers Science author manuscript : Seasonal cycling in the Hadza gut microbiome 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 Tanzania Tanzania The Hadza Tribe The Hadza Tribe African Culture African Culture

Kinshasa plans to challenge Louise Mushikiwabo’s third-term bid at OIF, citing neutrality concerns amid DRC–Rwanda tensions. The International Organisation of the Francophonie (OIF) is heading into a politically charged succession contest, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) indicating it will put forward an alternative candidate to replace Secretary-General Louise Mushikiwabo, the Rwandan diplomat who has led the organization since her election in 2018 and re-election in 2022. For Kinshasa, the move is less about personalities than a public test of whether the Francophonie can remain a credible, unifying platform when member states are locked in an escalating regional dispute. A leadership challenge rooted in “neutrality” disputes At the center of Kinshasa’s case is a long-running complaint about how the OIF has been managed under Mushikiwabo specifically, whether the Secretary-General has maintained sufficient impartiality as tensions between the DRC and Rwanda have deepened. Mushikiwabo’s mandate places her at the heart of the Francophonie’s institutional machinery, including chairing key bodies and coordinating the organization’s work as reported by Africa Press . Congolese officials, according to the original report, argue that OIF leadership has not reflected what they see as the gravity of the security crisis in eastern Congo and the regional tensions that accompany it. Their criticism is framed as a governance and credibility question: if the Francophonie claims shared values and political dialogue among members, Kinshasa wants the institution to demonstrate that those principles apply even when conflicts involve influential member states. The eastern Congo conflict is the unspoken driver The DRC–Rwanda relationship has been strained for years, but the conflict in eastern DRC has intensified mistrust. Kinshasa has repeatedly accused Kigali of supporting the M23 rebel movement an allegation Rwanda has denied. The political significance for the OIF is that this dispute is no longer confined to bilateral channels; it is increasingly shaping how the DRC engages with multilateral bodies where Rwanda is also present. Independent reporting and diplomatic statements have pointed to UN expert findings on the eastern DRC conflict, which have been cited internationally in discussions about M23 and regional dynamics . This wider context helps explain why Kinshasa is treating the OIF succession as a consequential decision: the Secretary-General is not expected to arbitrate a war, but the DRC is signaling that perceived institutional “silence” or “imbalance” can carry diplomatic costs. The 2023 Kinshasa Francophonie Games episode became symbolic The disagreement did not start with the current succession season. It was already visible in public moments most notably around the 2023 Francophonie Games hosted in Kinshasa. Mushikiwabo did not attend the opening, and competing accounts circulated about the circumstances, including questions of protocol and invitations. While the Games were not an OIF political summit, the controversy became a proxy for the broader relationship: Kinshasa interpreted it as another sign of strained ties within the Francophonie ecosystem at a time when the DRC wanted stronger institutional solidarity. Continue Reading Full Article DIPLOMACY Why Kinshasa Is Challenging Mushikiwabo’s Leadership at OIF By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Feb 2, 2026 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The International Organisation of the Francophonie (OIF) is heading into a politically charged succession contest, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) indicating it will put forward an alternative candidate to replace Secretary-General Louise Mushikiwabo, the Rwandan diplomat who has led the organization since her election in 2018 and re-election in 2022. For Kinshasa, the move is less about personalities than a public test of whether the Francophonie can remain a credible, unifying platform when member states are locked in an escalating regional dispute. A leadership challenge rooted in “neutrality” disputes At the center of Kinshasa’s case is a long-running complaint about how the OIF has been managed under Mushikiwabo specifically, whether the Secretary-General has maintained sufficient impartiality as tensions between the DRC and Rwanda have deepened. Mushikiwabo’s mandate places her at the heart of the Francophonie’s institutional machinery, including chairing key bodies and coordinating the organization’s work as reported by Africa Press . Congolese officials, according to the original report, argue that OIF leadership has not reflected what they see as the gravity of the security crisis in eastern Congo and the regional tensions that accompany it. Their criticism is framed as a governance and credibility question: if the Francophonie claims shared values and political dialogue among members, Kinshasa wants the institution to demonstrate that those principles apply even when conflicts involve influential member states. The eastern Congo conflict is the unspoken driver The DRC–Rwanda relationship has been strained for years, but the conflict in eastern DRC has intensified mistrust. Kinshasa has repeatedly accused Kigali of supporting the M23 rebel movement an allegation Rwanda has denied. The political significance for the OIF is that this dispute is no longer confined to bilateral channels; it is increasingly shaping how the DRC engages with multilateral bodies where Rwanda is also present. ADVERTISEMENT Independent reporting and diplomatic statements have pointed to UN expert findings on the eastern DRC conflict, which have been cited internationally in discussions about M23 and regional dynamics . This wider context helps explain why Kinshasa is treating the OIF succession as a consequential decision: the Secretary-General is not expected to arbitrate a war, but the DRC is signaling that perceived institutional “silence” or “imbalance” can carry diplomatic costs. The 2023 Kinshasa Francophonie Games episode became symbolic The disagreement did not start with the current succession season. It was already visible in public moments most notably around the 2023 Francophonie Games hosted in Kinshasa. Mushikiwabo did not attend the opening, and competing accounts circulated about the circumstances, including questions of protocol and invitations. While the Games were not an OIF political summit, the controversy became a proxy for the broader relationship: Kinshasa interpreted it as another sign of strained ties within the Francophonie ecosystem at a time when the DRC wanted stronger institutional solidarity. ADVERTISEMENT A contest shaped by the OIF’s consensus culture The succession process is complicated by how the OIF traditionally reaches decisions often through consensus and coalition-building rather than straightforward bloc voting. That means the DRC’s strategy must go beyond rallying Francophone African states and extend to member governments in Europe, North America, and elsewhere that carry influence within the organization. The original report notes that Mushikiwabo’s campaign is already active and is believed to benefit from support in several major capitals. That dynamic raises the bar for Kinshasa: to win, it must present a candidate who can be framed as broadly acceptable not merely as an “anti-Rwanda” choice. What Kinshasa is trying to achieve From Kinshasa’s perspective, the challenge serves multiple objectives at once: Reassert influence as the largest Francophone country. The DRC has long argued its demographic and cultural weight should translate into stronger leadership standing in Francophone institutions. Force a debate about institutional credibility. By pushing the leadership question, the DRC is effectively asking whether the OIF can maintain unity and legitimacy when members face severe regional conflict. Create leverage in a broader diplomatic contest. Even if Kinshasa does not ultimately secure the top job, mounting a serious challenge can shift negotiations, alliances, and the tone of engagement inside the OIF. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW Why zanzibar chose london buses to promote its tourism brand . African Destinations Ruto appoints Ababu Namwamba as Kenya envoy to Uganda . | Appointments DRC offers state mineral assets to US investors under pact . Regional Economy Kaduna police confirm mass abduction after initial denials . Political Scandals 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 . Some diplomats referenced in the original reporting also float a third possibility: if polarization deepens, the organization could turn toward a compromise candidate from a third country to avoid an open rupture. Why this matters beyond one office The OIF is primarily a cultural and linguistic organization, but its members also present it as a community of shared political values. The DRC’s challenge highlights a recurring tension: when security crises implicate member states, institutions built for cooperation and cultural diplomacy can struggle to serve as credible venues for political mediation. For that reason, the next OIF summit’s leadership decision will be read as more than an internal appointment. It will signal whether Kinshasa can translate national weight into multilateral influence and whether Kigali can sustain backing for Mushikiwabo’s continued leadership in a shifting diplomatic landscape. Source: Africa press ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Politics & Diplomacy Mamady Doumbouya takes oath as Guinea’s civilian president Junta leader takes oath under new seven-year constitution after disputed election . Elections Monitoring How Top Candidates Performed Across Regions in Uganda’s 2026 Election Data shows President Museveni’s vote shares across major regions in 2026 presidential poll . Political Scandals U.S. accuses SA flight academy of aiding China with NATO expertise Justice Department alleges Test Flying Academy exported US technology; company denies wrongdoing . Breaking Internet Moments Fire crews fight Wemmershoek blaze near Franschhoek Cape Winelands teams use back‑burning and air support to shield farms; no casualties reported so far . Tags Africa Africa African Union African Union Rwanda Invasion in DRC Rwanda Invasion in DRC DRC Peace Efforts DRC Peace Efforts DRC Politics DRC Politics

Learn how to check your NIN from your phone with *346#, the SIM and airtime requirements, likely fee and fixes when retrieval fails You can retrieve a forgotten National Identification Number from your phone by dialling the official NIMC USSD code, *346# , from the phone number recorded on your NIN profile. The service does not require mobile data or a smartphone. It normally works through Nigerian mobile networks, but you need an active SIM, sufficient regular airtime and access to the number connected to your NIMC record. Quick answer: Dial *346# from the phone number used for your NIN enrolment or later updated on your NIMC record. Select NIN Retrieval , approve the displayed charge and copy the 11-digit number shown on the screen. Official Code for Checking Your NIN The NIN retrieval code is: *346# Use the code to recover a NIN that has already been issued to you. It does not register you for a new NIN and does not correct errors in your identity record. The service is commonly available to customers of: MTN Nigeria; Airtel Nigeria; Continue Reading Full Article GOVERNMENT SERVICES How to Check Your NIN From Your Phone in 2026 By Wilson Munezero Government Services & Opportunities Expert Wilson Munezero Home Comment Aug 20, 2026 Aug 20, 2026 17 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: You can retrieve a forgotten National Identification Number from your phone by dialling the official NIMC USSD code, *346# , from the phone number recorded on your NIN profile. The service does not require mobile data or a smartphone. It normally works through Nigerian mobile networks, but you need an active SIM, sufficient regular airtime and access to the number connected to your NIMC record. Quick answer: Dial *346# from the phone number used for your NIN enrolment or later updated on your NIMC record. Select NIN Retrieval , approve the displayed charge and copy the 11-digit number shown on the screen. Official Code for Checking Your NIN The NIN retrieval code is: *346# Use the code to recover a NIN that has already been issued to you. It does not register you for a new NIN and does not correct errors in your identity record. The service is commonly available to customers of: MTN Nigeria; Airtel Nigeria; Globacom; and 9mobile. Network availability can vary temporarily. Follow the wording and price displayed in the USSD menu because the order of the options and the service charge may change. What You Need Before Dialling the Code Make sure you have: The SIM associated with your NIMC record. Access to the phone number used during enrolment or officially updated afterwards. A working mobile-network signal. Enough regular airtime for the retrieval charge. A safe place to record the 11-digit number. Do not use another person's phone and assume the system will ask for your name. The retrieval service identifies the record through the phone number making the request. How to Check Your NIN With *346# Step 1: Insert or select the correct SIM Use the phone number connected to your NIN record. If you have a dual-SIM phone, confirm that the USSD call will be made from the correct line. Step 2: Open the phone dialler Open the same app you use to make calls. Step 3: Dial the official code Enter: *346# Then press the call or send button. Step 4: Select “NIN Retrieval” Choose the option labelled NIN Retrieval . It is often option 1, but read the menu instead of assuming the number because the options can be updated. Step 5: Review and approve the charge The menu should show the service charge before the request is completed. Current Nigerian guides commonly report a charge of about ₦20 per successful retrieval , but confirm the amount shown on your phone because NIMC or a network operator may change it. Cancel the session if the displayed amount is unexpected. Step 6: Copy the 11-digit NIN Your National Identification Number should appear on the screen. It contains 11 digits. Write it down carefully or store it in a secure password manager or private encrypted note. Do not post a screenshot publicly or save the number in a shared phone. ADVERTISEMENT How to Check NIN on MTN, Airtel, Glo and 9mobile The core retrieval process is the same across the major Nigerian networks: Network NIN retrieval code What to do MTN *346# Select NIN Retrieval and confirm the displayed charge Airtel *346# Select NIN Retrieval and confirm the displayed charge Glo *346# Select NIN Retrieval and confirm the displayed charge 9mobile *346# Select NIN Retrieval and confirm the displayed charge The codes a network uses for SIM registration, SIM-NIN linking or checking linkage status are different services. If your goal is to recover the 11-digit identity number, start with NIMC's *346# retrieval route. How Much Does NIN Retrieval Cost? The phone service is not normally free. Recent 2026 consumer guides report a fee of approximately ₦20 , deducted from regular airtime after confirmation. Because the current NIMC SMS-services page does not expose a fixed fee in its accessible page text, XTRAfrica recommends treating the amount shown in the live USSD menu as authoritative. Charges can be changed by NIMC or the mobile network. If the balance is too low, recharge with regular airtime and try again. Bonus airtime may not work for the service. NIN Code Not Working? Try These Fixes 1. Confirm that you used the correct phone number Dial from the number stored against your NIMC record. A different line may return no record even if both SIMs belong to you. Remember that a SIM being linked to your NIN for telecom compliance is not always proof that it is the contact number stored in your original NIMC profile. 2. Select the correct SIM on a dual-SIM phone If two lines are active, the phone may send the USSD request through the wrong network. Choose the NIMC-linked SIM before dialling. 3. Add regular airtime The retrieval may fail if the line cannot cover the service fee. Recharge and retry after confirming that the balance is available for ordinary paid services. 4. Check the network signal USSD sessions need an active mobile-network connection. Move to an area with better reception and try again later if the session times out. 5. Wait for temporary system problems to clear The mobile network or NIMC service may be temporarily unavailable. Do not keep redialling rapidly if the system is failing. Wait and try again later. 6. Restart the phone A restart can clear a stuck USSD session or temporary SIM error. Confirm that the correct SIM is active after the phone turns back on. 7. Contact the mobile network If ordinary calls and other USSD codes also fail, the problem may be with the SIM or network account. Ask the operator whether premium USSD services are blocked. 8. Contact NIMC if the record still cannot be found Use NIMC's official contact page or visit an authorised NIMC enrolment centre . Do not send your NIN, BVN, biometric data or identity documents to an unofficial social-media account. What to Do if You Lost the SIM Linked to Your NIN The simplest first step is to recover the same phone number from your mobile operator. Take the identification and SIM-ownership evidence required by the network. If the number cannot be recovered: ADVERTISEMENT Visit an official NIMC office or authorised enrolment centre. Explain that the phone number on the NIN record is lost or inaccessible. Take any NIN slip, tracking ID or valid identity record still available to you. Complete the identity and biometric checks requested by NIMC. Follow the official process for retrieving the NIN or updating the recorded phone number. NIMC lists phone number as an updatable identity field. Supporting evidence may be required, and an official modification or slip-reissuance fee may apply. Do not register for a second NIN because the original number was forgotten or the SIM was lost. A NIN is unique and remains attached to one identity. Can You Check Your NIN Online? NIMC provides digital identity services, including NINAuth and mobile identity tools. However, a public website should not reveal a person's NIN merely from a name or phone number. That would create a serious identity-theft risk. Some NIMC mobile services require the user to already know the NIN before creating or restoring an account. Therefore, they may not solve the problem when the 11-digit number itself has been completely forgotten. For a forgotten NIN, use *346# from the recorded phone number or seek help at an authorised NIMC centre. Avoid websites that promise instant retrieval after you submit a BVN, card information or one-time password. Can You Check Your NIN by SMS? The widely recognised self-service retrieval method is the *346# USSD menu. It is dialled like a phone code rather than sent as a normal text message. Do not text personal information to random numbers advertising NIN retrieval. Use the official NIMC service or an authorised centre. NIN Retrieval Is Not the Same as NIN Verification These terms refer to different actions: Service Meaning NIN retrieval Recovering your existing 11-digit NIN after forgetting or losing it NIN verification Confirming that a NIN and identity record are valid NIN-SIM linking Associating a mobile line with the subscriber's NIN through a network operator NIN slip download or reissue Obtaining an official printable identity slip NIN modification Correcting or updating an approved field in the NIMC record Dialling *346# retrieves the number. It does not correct a name, change a date of birth, print an official slip or automatically resolve a failed bank or SIM verification. NIN and Tracking ID: What Is the Difference? A NIN is the permanent 11-digit number assigned after successful enrolment and de-duplication. A tracking ID is connected to the enrolment process and is not a substitute for the completed NIN. If a service requests your 11-digit NIN, do not enter the tracking ID. If enrolment has not been completed and no NIN has been issued, *346# cannot create one. Contact the centre where you enrolled or visit NIMC. What to Do After Retrieving Your NIN After the number appears: Check that it contains exactly 11 digits. Copy it carefully without spaces or missing digits. Keep it in a secure private location. Obtain or reprint an official NIN slip if an organisation requires the document. Share it only with a verified institution for a legitimate identity purpose. Never publish it on Facebook, X, TikTok, WhatsApp groups or a public form. NIMC describes the NIN as sensitive identity information that should be guarded and disclosed only to relevant authorities when required. Scam and Privacy Warning NIMC warns the public against unauthorised apps, websites and social-media accounts that collect NIN or BVN information. A fake retrieval service may use the data for identity fraud. Never give an unknown person your: Full NIN or NIN slip. BVN. Bank-card details or PIN. One-time password. Fingerprints or facial image. SIM-replacement code. Password for a government or financial account. Do not allow a stranger to dial the retrieval code while holding your unlocked phone. Someone with access to the registered SIM may be able to view the number. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW Nigeria Targets Lower Transport Fares From October 1 . Transport and Logistics How to Check BVN Without Visiting a Bank . Banking and Finance JAMB Result Slip 2026: How to Print It . Students Guide How to Generate JAMB Profile Code With NIN . Students Guide 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 . Frequently Asked Questions What code can I use to check my NIN? Dial *346# from the phone number connected to your NIMC record and select NIN Retrieval. How many digits are in a NIN? A National Identification Number contains 11 digits. Can I check my NIN without internet access? Yes. The *346# USSD service uses the mobile network and does not require mobile data. Can I check my NIN on any phone? You can put the correct SIM in another handset, but the request must be made through the phone number associated with your NIMC record. The handset itself is not the identity key. Can I use another person's phone number? No. The service searches for the record associated with the line making the request. Use your recorded number or visit NIMC for assistance. How much does *346# cost? Recent guides commonly report about ₦20 for a successful retrieval. Confirm the live amount displayed in the USSD menu before approving it. Does *346# work on MTN, Airtel, Glo and 9mobile? It is the common NIMC retrieval code used across the major Nigerian networks. Temporary network or system availability can still affect a request. Why is my NIN not showing? Possible causes include using the wrong SIM, insufficient airtime, poor network coverage, temporary NIMC downtime or an incomplete identity record. Can I retrieve a NIN that has never been issued? No. Retrieval only returns an existing NIN. A person who has never completed NIMC enrolment must enrol through an authorised centre. Can I retrieve my NIN after losing the registered SIM? Recover the same phone number from the mobile operator where possible. Otherwise, visit NIMC for identity verification and help updating or retrieving the record. Should I enrol again if I forgot my NIN? No. Do not create a duplicate identity record. Retrieve the existing number through *346# or an authorised NIMC centre. Does the code print a NIN slip? No. It displays or returns the 11-digit number. Use an official NIMC slip service or visit an authorised centre when a printable document is required. Official Sources and Verification Note This guide was checked on 20 August 2026 against: NIMC SMS Services — official phone-service page. NIMC National Identification Number guide — the 11-digit format, identity purpose and uniqueness of the NIN. NIMC mobile digital identity information — official mobile identity services. NIMC enrolment-centre finder — official physical-support locations. NIMC contact page — customer-service channels. NIMC fraud alert — warnings about unauthorised apps, websites and requests for identity data. The USSD option number and fee can change. Follow the live menu shown after dialling *346# and rely on NIMC or your mobile operator for the latest charge. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Terrorism and Security Nigeria plans stronger military response after Maiduguri blasts Government pledges action as analysts warn militants remain capable . Justice & Crime Dozens Killed in Kwara as Villagers Reject Jihadists, Governor Says officials cite mass killings, abductions and arson in Woro and Nuku ,Nigeria deploys troops to the area . Political Commentary APC opens back-channel talks to ease Rivers political crisis Party secretary Ajibola Basiru says quiet negotiations are engaging Wike and Gov. Fubara . Geopolitics Africa Tinubu’s Türkiye Visit Deepens Security and Defence Ties Ankara pledges counter-terror support as viral stumble clips revive misinformation risks . Tags Nigeria Gov Services Nigeria Gov Services Nigeria Nigeria

Angelique Kidjo, the multi-Grammy-winning songstress, has authored a heartfelt homage to fellow musician Burna Boy, following his inclusion in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2024. The esteemed Beninese artist lauded the Nigerian Afro-fusion sensation, recognizing him as an artist who has carved out a historical legacy and serves as an inspiration for Africa’s youth. In her tribute, Kidjo reflected on her advice to young African artists, urging them to embrace the richness of African traditions instead of emulating American artists. She noted the global influence of African music, calling it an unfailing source of inspiration with the power to captivate the world. Burna Boy, according to Kidjo, has actualized this vision on the global stage. Drawing inspiration from the powerful rhythms of Nigerian folk music and honing his craft in the tradition of Africa’s great singer-songwriters, he walks in the giant strides of Fela Kuti, the iconic Afrobeats pioneer and activist. Kidjo highlighted Burna Boy's unique style and rhythmic groove, which have led him to a succession of groundbreaking achievements. In 2023, he was the first African artist to headline and sell out a stadium show in the United States. In 2024, he became the first Afrobeats performer to take the stage at the Grammy Awards. Burna Boy's influence extends beyond music, as he stands as a historical figure shaping a new generation of African youth. Since his international breakthrough in 2018, Burna Boy has emerged as one of the world’s leading musicians. His 2019 Grammy-nominated album 'African Giant' included a collaboration with Kidjo and Damian Marley on the track 'Different'. Furthermore, Kidjo and Burna Boy joined forces on her Grammy-nominated song 'Do Yourself' in 2021. Out of a diverse list of luminaries, Burna Boy stands as the sole African artist named in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2024, signifying his remarkable impact on music and culture. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 17, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Burna Boy Featured Among Icons in Time Magazine's 2024 List of 100 Most Influential Individuals. Photo:GettyImages Angelique Kidjo, the multi-Grammy-winning songstress, has authored a heartfelt homage to fellow musician Burna Boy, following his inclusion in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2024. The esteemed Beninese artist lauded the Nigerian Afro-fusion sensation, recognizing him as an artist who has carved out a historical legacy and serves as an inspiration for Africa’s youth. In her tribute, Kidjo reflected on her advice to young African artists, urging them to embrace the richness of African traditions instead of emulating American artists. She noted the global influence of African music, calling it an unfailing source of inspiration with the power to captivate the world. ADVERTISEMENT Burna Boy, according to Kidjo, has actualized this vision on the global stage. Drawing inspiration from the powerful rhythms of Nigerian folk music and honing his craft in the tradition of Africa’s great singer-songwriters, he walks in the giant strides of Fela Kuti, the iconic Afrobeats pioneer and activist. Kidjo highlighted Burna Boy's unique style and rhythmic groove, which have led him to a succession of groundbreaking achievements. In 2023, he was the first African artist to headline and sell out a stadium show in the United States. In 2024, he became the first Afrobeats performer to take the stage at the Grammy Awards. Burna Boy's influence extends beyond music, as he stands as a historical figure shaping a new generation of African youth. Since his international breakthrough in 2018, Burna Boy has emerged as one of the world’s leading musicians. His 2019 Grammy-nominated album 'African Giant' included a collaboration with Kidjo and Damian Marley on the track 'Different'. Furthermore, Kidjo and Burna Boy joined forces on her Grammy-nominated song 'Do Yourself' in 2021. ADVERTISEMENT Out of a diverse list of luminaries, Burna Boy stands as the sole African artist named in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2024, signifying his remarkable impact on music and culture. 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

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen and track star Tobi Amusan have been recognized as part of the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 Class of 2024, highlighting their athletic achievements and impactful contributions both within and beyond their sports. Their selection not only celebrates their professional success but also their roles as community influencers and national icons in Nigeria. This year's selection process by Forbes Africa was particularly rigorous, involving a panel of high-profile judges and experts, along with contributions from previous honorees, to identify truly deserving young talents across the continent. Osimhen and Amusan are the only Nigerian athletes to make this prestigious list, underscoring Nigeria's strong presence in the international sports arena. Osimhen, at 25, has become the highest-paid Nigerian footballer following a significant contract with Napoli in December 2023. Similarly, 26-year-old Amusan has risen to become the top-paid Nigerian in track and field, securing multiple endorsement deals thanks to her continued dominance in the sport. Their careers are characterized by resilience, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to their disciplines. The inclusion of these athletes in the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 roster not only marks personal milestones but also reflects the vast potential and rich talent pool within Africa. Their stories of perseverance and success are set to inspire a new generation of athletes to chase their dreams with determination, further elevating the continent's standing on the global sports stage. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 15, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Only two Nigerian athletes secured spots on the prestigious Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list for 2024. Credit: GettyImages Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen and track star Tobi Amusan have been recognized as part of the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 Class of 2024, highlighting their athletic achievements and impactful contributions both within and beyond their sports. Their selection not only celebrates their professional success but also their roles as community influencers and national icons in Nigeria. This year's selection process by Forbes Africa was particularly rigorous, involving a panel of high-profile judges and experts, along with contributions from previous honorees, to identify truly deserving young talents across the continent. Osimhen and Amusan are the only Nigerian athletes to make this prestigious list, underscoring Nigeria's strong presence in the international sports arena. Osimhen, at 25, has become the highest-paid Nigerian footballer following a significant contract with Napoli in December 2023. Similarly, 26-year-old Amusan has risen to become the top-paid Nigerian in track and field, securing multiple endorsement deals thanks to her continued dominance in the sport. Their careers are characterized by resilience, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to their disciplines. ADVERTISEMENT The inclusion of these athletes in the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 roster not only marks personal milestones but also reflects the vast potential and rich talent pool within Africa. Their stories of perseverance and success are set to inspire a new generation of athletes to chase their dreams with determination, further elevating the continent's standing on the global sports stage. 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

Zendaya and Tom Holland may have wed in secret, stylist Law Roach says, but the couple has not publicly confirmed the marriage. Hollywood actors Zendaya and Tom Holland may have tied the knot in a private ceremony, according to comments made by Zendaya’s longtime stylist, Law Roach. Roach made the remark while speaking on the red carpet at the 2026 Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles. In an interview with Access Hollywood , he stated, “The wedding has already happened. You missed it.” Roach has worked closely with Zendaya for more than a decade and is considered one of her most trusted collaborators. Neither Zendaya nor Holland has publicly confirmed the reported marriage . Representatives for both actors have also not responded to media inquiries. The pair, both 29, first met in 2017 while filming Spider-Man: Homecoming . Rumours of a romantic relationship began during the film’s press tour and were widely confirmed in 2021 after they were photographed together in Los Angeles. Speculation about an engagement surfaced in January 2025 when Zendaya was seen wearing a diamond ring at the Golden Globe Awards. Holland later confirmed in September 2025 that he had proposed. In early 2026, fans noted that Zendaya appeared to be wearing a gold band instead of her engagement ring, prompting further speculation about a possible private wedding. Since going public with their relationship, the couple — popularly nicknamed “Tomdaya” — have kept their personal lives largely private. Zendaya has recently starred in major productions including Dune: Part Two and Challengers , while Holland continues portraying Peter Parker in Marvel’s Spider-Man franchise. Source: The Sun Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article HOLLYWOOD UPDATES Zendaya, Tom Holland Reportedly Marry in Private Ceremony By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 2, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Hollywood actors Zendaya and Tom Holland may have tied the knot in a private ceremony, according to comments made by Zendaya’s longtime stylist, Law Roach. Roach made the remark while speaking on the red carpet at the 2026 Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles. In an interview with Access Hollywood , he stated, “The wedding has already happened. You missed it.” Roach has worked closely with Zendaya for more than a decade and is considered one of her most trusted collaborators. Neither Zendaya nor Holland has publicly confirmed the reported marriage . Representatives for both actors have also not responded to media inquiries. ADVERTISEMENT The pair, both 29, first met in 2017 while filming Spider-Man: Homecoming . Rumours of a romantic relationship began during the film’s press tour and were widely confirmed in 2021 after they were photographed together in Los Angeles. Speculation about an engagement surfaced in January 2025 when Zendaya was seen wearing a diamond ring at the Golden Globe Awards. Holland later confirmed in September 2025 that he had proposed. ADVERTISEMENT In early 2026, fans noted that Zendaya appeared to be wearing a gold band instead of her engagement ring, prompting further speculation about a possible private wedding. Since going public with their relationship, the couple — popularly nicknamed “Tomdaya” — have kept their personal lives largely private. Zendaya has recently starred in major productions including Dune: Part Two and Challengers , while Holland continues portraying Peter Parker in Marvel’s Spider-Man franchise. 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 Hollywood Updates Vin Diesel Honors Michael Caine With New Festival Tribute . Hollywood Updates Kim Kardashian Shares Surprise Wedding Photos From TV Drama . Justice & Crime Opera Singer Jubilant Sykes Fatally Stabbed in Santa Monica . Hollywood Updates Angela Bassett Reflects on Aging, Says She Still Feels Young at 67 . Hollywood Updates Pamela Anderson Confirms Brief Romance With Liam Neeson . Source: The Sun Nigeria 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. . 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In a significant development, Anglo American's CEO, Duncan Wanblad, is set to meet South Africa's Mines Minister Gwede Mantashe on Friday. This meeting marks the first interaction between the two since Anglo American rebuffed a staggering $39 billion takeover offer from BHP Group, the largest listed mining group globally. Sources close to the matter highlight that BHP is not stepping back, despite the rejection. The mining giant is currently engaging privately with investors to strategize its subsequent actions. Amidst these talks, another commodities heavyweight, Glencore, is reportedly considering entering the fray, potentially triggering a bidding war for Anglo American, a venerable institution in the mining world established 107 years ago. Anglo American has maintained silence over the specifics of the upcoming discussion with Minister Mantashe. The company's decision to reject BHP's initial proposal was unanimous, citing the bid as opportunistic and a significant undervaluation of Anglo American's long-term value. A controversial aspect of BHP’s proposal involved Anglo American divesting from its South African entities , notably Anglo Platinum (Amplats) and Kumba Iron Ore. This suggested divestiture raises concerns among Anglo's investors, wary of potential losses from the South African subsidiaries if they were to be spun off. Further complicating the scenario is the potential reaction from South African regulatory bodies, including the central bank, which may view the un-bundling and associated capital outflows with apprehension, especially from foreign investors hesitant to retain shares in the local assets. As the mining sector watches closely, the outcomes of these discussions could reshape not only the future of Anglo American but also the broader dynamics of the mining industry in South Africa. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 3, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: In a significant development, Anglo American's CEO, Duncan Wanblad, is set to meet South Africa's Mines Minister Gwede Mantashe on Friday. This meeting marks the first interaction between the two since Anglo American rebuffed a staggering $39 billion takeover offer from BHP Group, the largest listed mining group globally. Sources close to the matter highlight that BHP is not stepping back, despite the rejection. The mining giant is currently engaging privately with investors to strategize its subsequent actions. Amidst these talks, another commodities heavyweight, Glencore, is reportedly considering entering the fray, potentially triggering a bidding war for Anglo American, a venerable institution in the mining world established 107 years ago. ADVERTISEMENT Anglo American has maintained silence over the specifics of the upcoming discussion with Minister Mantashe. The company's decision to reject BHP's initial proposal was unanimous, citing the bid as opportunistic and a significant undervaluation of Anglo American's long-term value. A controversial aspect of BHP’s proposal involved Anglo American divesting from its South African entities , notably Anglo Platinum (Amplats) and Kumba Iron Ore. This suggested divestiture raises concerns among Anglo's investors, wary of potential losses from the South African subsidiaries if they were to be spun off. ADVERTISEMENT Further complicating the scenario is the potential reaction from South African regulatory bodies, including the central bank, which may view the un-bundling and associated capital outflows with apprehension, especially from foreign investors hesitant to retain shares in the local assets. As the mining sector watches closely, the outcomes of these discussions could reshape not only the future of Anglo American but also the broader dynamics of the mining industry in South Africa. 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