South Africa's former president, Jacob Zuma, has declared his intention to fight for his rights after the country's top court ruled him ineligible to run for parliament in the upcoming election. Constitutional Court Ruling On Monday, the Constitutional Court confirmed that Zuma's 15-month jail sentence for contempt of court in 2021 disqualifies him from participating in the May 29 vote. According to South Africa's constitution, anyone sentenced to 12 months or more in prison is barred from holding a parliamentary seat. Decisions made by the Constitutional Court are final and cannot be overruled. Zuma's Response In a YouTube video shared by his uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, Zuma expressed his determination to challenge the ruling. "Judges of the Constitutional Court have taken a decision that I can't exercise my freedom, my democracy," Zuma said. "I am going to fight for my rights until this country agrees that freedom must be a complete freedom, not for some and oppression for others." Impact on Election Despite the court's decision, Z uma's face will remain on the ballot papers as he is the registered leader of MK. His name, however, will be removed from the list of parliamentary candidates. Zuma endorsed MK in December, distancing himself from the governing African National Congress (ANC), which he led from 2007 to 2017. Political Background Zuma resigned as South Africa's president in 2018 under pressure from current ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa's allies. His nine-year tenure was plagued by corruption scandals and economic challenges. In 2021, Zuma's imprisonment sparked riots in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal, resulting in over 300 deaths and widespread looting. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 24, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: South Africa's former president, Jacob Zuma in courtroom South Africa's former president, Jacob Zuma, has declared his intention to fight for his rights after the country's top court ruled him ineligible to run for parliament in the upcoming election. Constitutional Court Ruling On Monday, the Constitutional Court confirmed that Zuma's 15-month jail sentence for contempt of court in 2021 disqualifies him from participating in the May 29 vote. According to South Africa's constitution, anyone sentenced to 12 months or more in prison is barred from holding a parliamentary seat. Decisions made by the Constitutional Court are final and cannot be overruled. ADVERTISEMENT Zuma's Response In a YouTube video shared by his uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, Zuma expressed his determination to challenge the ruling. "Judges of the Constitutional Court have taken a decision that I can't exercise my freedom, my democracy," Zuma said. "I am going to fight for my rights until this country agrees that freedom must be a complete freedom, not for some and oppression for others." Impact on Election Despite the court's decision, Z uma's face will remain on the ballot papers as he is the registered leader of MK. His name, however, will be removed from the list of parliamentary candidates. Zuma endorsed MK in December, distancing himself from the governing African National Congress (ANC), which he led from 2007 to 2017. ADVERTISEMENT Political Background Zuma resigned as South Africa's president in 2018 under pressure from current ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa's allies. His nine-year tenure was plagued by corruption scandals and economic challenges. In 2021, Zuma's imprisonment sparked riots in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal, resulting in over 300 deaths and widespread looting. As Zuma continues to contest his disqualification, the upcoming election remains a focal point of political tension in South Africa. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

DR Congo and M23 rebels resume Qatar talks as violence escalates. UN experts say Rwanda backs the rebellion, fueling displacement and mass killings. Delegations from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel movement have resumed talks in Doha, Qatar, as fighting continues to devastate the country’s east. According to Qatar’s foreign ministry, the two sides met this week to review the truce signed in July. The deal was supposed to stop hostilities and lead to a full peace agreement, but deadlines for progress in early August passed without results. Qatari spokesman Majed al-Ansari said the discussions now include creating a system to monitor the ceasefire, as well as a possible exchange of prisoners. The United States and the International Committee of the Red Cross are also involved in supporting the process. The Qatar initiative followed an earlier Washington agreement signed in June between the DRC and Rwanda, the main backer of the M23 rebellion. The rebels rejected that deal, insisting on direct negotiations with Kinshasa. US President Donald Trump has claimed credit for ending the conflict, calling Congo “the darkest, deepest part of Africa.” He even suggested that nine million people were killed with machetes before he “stopped it.” Human rights groups, however, dismissed his words as misleading. Christian Rumu of Amnesty International stressed that “people on the ground continue to experience grave human rights violations, some amounting to crimes against humanity.” In reality, violence has only intensified. This year alone, more than two million people have been forced from their homes in North and South Kivu. Human Rights Watch has accused the M23 of carrying out ethnically targeted massacres. United Nations experts have confirmed that Rwandan troops play a “critical” role in supporting the rebel offensive. Rwanda continues to deny involvement, but the facts on the ground tell a different story. The M23’s capture of large areas, including the key city of Goma earlier this year, shows how Kigali uses the rebellion as a proxy to destabilize Congo. For Kinshasa, the talks in Qatar are another attempt to restore peace, but the real challenge remains Rwanda’s hidden hand in the conflict. Continue Reading Full Article DRC PEACE EFFORT DR Congo, M23 Rebels Resume Qatar Talks Amid Escalating Violence By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Aug 27, 2025 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Delegations from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel movement have resumed talks in Doha, Qatar, as fighting continues to devastate the country’s east. According to Qatar’s foreign ministry, the two sides met this week to review the truce signed in July. The deal was supposed to stop hostilities and lead to a full peace agreement, but deadlines for progress in early August passed without results. ADVERTISEMENT Qatari spokesman Majed al-Ansari said the discussions now include creating a system to monitor the ceasefire, as well as a possible exchange of prisoners. The United States and the International Committee of the Red Cross are also involved in supporting the process. The Qatar initiative followed an earlier Washington agreement signed in June between the DRC and Rwanda, the main backer of the M23 rebellion. The rebels rejected that deal, insisting on direct negotiations with Kinshasa. ADVERTISEMENT US President Donald Trump has claimed credit for ending the conflict, calling Congo “the darkest, deepest part of Africa.” He even suggested that nine million people were killed with machetes before he “stopped it.” Human rights groups, however, dismissed his words as misleading. Christian Rumu of Amnesty International stressed that “people on the ground continue to experience grave human rights violations, some amounting to crimes against humanity.” Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation . ADVERTISEMENT In reality, violence has only intensified. This year alone, more than two million people have been forced from their homes in North and South Kivu. Human Rights Watch has accused the M23 of carrying out ethnically targeted massacres. United Nations experts have confirmed that Rwandan troops play a “critical” role in supporting the rebel offensive. Rwanda continues to deny involvement, but the facts on the ground tell a different story. The M23’s capture of large areas, including the key city of Goma earlier this year, shows how Kigali uses the rebellion as a proxy to destabilize Congo. For Kinshasa, the talks in Qatar are another attempt to restore peace, but the real challenge remains Rwanda’s hidden hand in the conflict. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health Lawmakers back four financing bills supporting entrepreneurs, primary education, maternal health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers DRC approves FGADEC, a national deposit-guarantee fund designed to protect eligible savings, . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll DRC plans to make salary inclusion a 2027 budget priority, aiming to progressively bring eligible . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure DRC plans more than $440 million in its 2027 budget for rural water, electricity and basic . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics Rwanda Rwanda DR.Congo DR.Congo Qatar Qatar DR Congo News DR Congo News

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Stephen Constantine Warns Nigeria: Rwanda Is No Easy Opponent Mar 16, 2025 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Rwanda’s national team prepares for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Nigeria. Stephen Constantine, who coached Rwanda’s national football team between 2014 and 2015, has reminded Nigeria that Rwanda is a rising force in football. Despite being a small country, Rwanda has produced many talented players. With just a few days left before Rwanda faces Nigeria in the fifth match of Group C in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, anticipation is high. The tournament will be hosted in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, and Rwanda hopes to qualify for the first time. Meanwhile, Nigeria, having played in six World Cups, missed out on the last one. Speaking to DW, Constantine emphasized that Rwanda’s size does not reflect its football potential. He stated, "The size of a country or a small population does not determine how far it can go. Rwanda understands this very well. I think people underestimate the level of talent in Rwanda—there is a lot of it." "In many places, the government does not get involved in sports, but in Rwanda, sports have been prioritized in a way that surprises many." Defeating Nigeria at Stade Amahoro on March 21, 2025, would be a huge milestone for Rwanda, proving that dreams can indeed become reality. Rwanda is currently ranked 124th in the FIFA rankings, while Nigeria stands at 80th. The last time they met in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, Rwanda won 2-1. As of now, Rwanda leads Group C with seven points, followed closely by South Africa and Benin, who share the same points. Lesotho is fourth with five points, Nigeria is fifth with three, and Zimbabwe sits at the bottom with two. DR.Congo Congo Prepares to Host First-Ever National AI Symposium in Kinshasa DR.Congo Joseph Kabila Accused of High Treason as Congo Seizes Assets and Shuts Down His Party DR.Congo Rwanda’s Puppet Returns: Kabila Enters Goma After Trump’s Warning to Kagame DR.Congo US to Rwanda: Withdraw from Congo, Mining Talks with DRC Moving Forward Top News More News US Visa Now ‘Nearly Impossible’ for Rwandans in 2025, Political Fears and Kagame’s Rule Blamed . Kagame's twisted genocide narrative nearly destroys US-based Nsabumukunzi . Rwanda’s $2 Billion Airport: A Debt Trap Disguised as Progress . Kagame's Desperate Economy: When Rwanda Starts Taxing Weddings, You Know It's Broken .

Aba Blues, a new Nigerian drama by FilmOne Studios, will premiere in cinemas nationwide on March 20, highlighting love, ambition and resilience. A new Nigerian drama film, Aba Blues , is scheduled to premiere in cinemas nationwide on March 20, offering audiences a story centered on love, ambition and resilience set in the bustling commercial city of Aba in Abia State. Produced by FilmOne Studios , the film uses the city of Aba not only as a setting but as an integral part of the story. Known for its entrepreneurial spirit and vibrant commercial activity, the city plays a central role in shaping the characters’ choices, relationships and turning points throughout the narrative The film is written and directed by Jack’enneth Opukeme , the filmmaker behind Farmer’s Bride , a FilmOne original production that previously sparked conversations within the Nollywood industry. According to the report, Aba Blues carries the same distinctive storytelling style that characterized Opukeme’s earlier work The cast features Angel Anosike, Prince Nelson , Jidekene Achufusi , Toni Tones and Odunlade Adekola , alongside a supporting ensemble delivering performances focused on emotional depth and complex character dynamics. At its core, the film explores themes of betrayal, personal ambition, social expectations and emotional resilience , focusing on individuals navigating relationships and life challenges in a rapidly evolving city environment. Speaking on the project, Ladun Awobokun , Chief Content Officer at FilmOne Entertainment, said the film reflects the studio’s commitment to culturally rooted storytelling that resonates with audiences. “Aba Blues represents the stories we are intentional about telling at FilmOne: honest, emotionally resonant, and rooted in who we are,” Awobokun said Director Jack’enneth Opukeme also noted that the film aims to present a realistic portrayal of complex relationships shaped by the rhythm and character of Aba. With the upcoming release, FilmOne Studios continues expanding its portfolio of Nigerian productions designed to connect with both local and international audiences through authentic storytelling. Continue Reading Full Article NOLLYWOOD UPDATES Aba Blues Set for Nationwide Cinema Release March 20 By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 6, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A new Nigerian drama film, Aba Blues , is scheduled to premiere in cinemas nationwide on March 20, offering audiences a story centered on love, ambition and resilience set in the bustling commercial city of Aba in Abia State. Produced by FilmOne Studios , the film uses the city of Aba not only as a setting but as an integral part of the story. Known for its entrepreneurial spirit and vibrant commercial activity, the city plays a central role in shaping the characters’ choices, relationships and turning points throughout the narrative The film is written and directed by Jack’enneth Opukeme , the filmmaker behind Farmer’s Bride , a FilmOne original production that previously sparked conversations within the Nollywood industry. According to the report, Aba Blues carries the same distinctive storytelling style that characterized Opukeme’s earlier work ADVERTISEMENT The cast features Angel Anosike, Prince Nelson , Jidekene Achufusi , Toni Tones and Odunlade Adekola , alongside a supporting ensemble delivering performances focused on emotional depth and complex character dynamics. At its core, the film explores themes of betrayal, personal ambition, social expectations and emotional resilience , focusing on individuals navigating relationships and life challenges in a rapidly evolving city environment. Speaking on the project, Ladun Awobokun , Chief Content Officer at FilmOne Entertainment, said the film reflects the studio’s commitment to culturally rooted storytelling that resonates with audiences. ADVERTISEMENT “Aba Blues represents the stories we are intentional about telling at FilmOne: honest, emotionally resonant, and rooted in who we are,” Awobokun said Director Jack’enneth Opukeme also noted that the film aims to present a realistic portrayal of complex relationships shaped by the rhythm and character of Aba. With the upcoming release, FilmOne Studios continues expanding its portfolio of Nigerian productions designed to connect with both local and international audiences through Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT authentic storytelling. Source: The Sun Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . 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. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Download Menopause by Akothee, a bold and vibrant pop track with strong attitude, catchy rhythm, and empowering vibes. Download Menopause – Akothee Bold Pop Anthem Kenya Afropop 2026 Download Menopause by Akothee, a bold and vibrant pop track with strong attitude, catchy rhythm, and empowering vibes. Download MP3 VIEW LYRICS Menopause Akothee 00:00 / 03:08 Share this song Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Copy link Artist Akothee Release Date April 6, 2026 Genre Quality Downloads You May Also Like Kenya Afropop 50/50 Saint Realest . : Lavender Watendawili . : ANITAH JIVU . : Lavender Watendawili . : Calipso Dyana Cods . : Lovely Day : Jahzeal . : Last Dance Wakadinali . : Mariana Lexsil . Official Music Video More Songs By More By View All Songs Song Details Artist: Akothee Title: Menopause Featured: Genre: Release Date: Apr 6, 2026 Format: About the Song If you’re looking to download Menopause , Akothee delivers a bold and unapologetic anthem that is already making waves across the African music scene. Known for her fearless personality, Akothee brings that same energy into this… Trending Downloads From Kenya dradi Blxckie . Maradona Mawelele . Never Stopping Sparo UG . Mpiga Shoti Tunda Man . Casanova Bensoul . HOLY GHOST FIRE Omah Lay . Latest Entertainment News Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Nigeria Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Kenya Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Eritrea Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Nigerian Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Nigeria Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . South Africa Afropop Kenya

The DRC and WFP plan to expand school meals to nearly one million children while buying more food from Congolese farmers. The Congolese government and the World Food Programme are preparing a new plan that could bring school meals to nearly one million children across the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa met WFP senior official Carl Skau in Kinshasa on Tuesday, 28 July. The two sides agreed to develop WFP’s next country strategic plan for the DRC, covering 2027 to 2030. School meals are expected to be one of its major priorities. The ambition is not only to provide food at school. The proposed model would increasingly purchase ingredients from Congolese small-scale farmers, allowing money spent on school meals to support agricultural families and local cooperatives. It is a potentially important national programme, but the expansion has not yet reached nearly one million children. The target, budget, provinces and annual rollout schedule must still be detailed in the new strategic plan. What did the government and WFP agree? According to the Journal de Kinshasa , the meeting focused on food security, nutrition, school meals and WFP’s support for the Ebola response. The main long-term decision was to prepare a four-year country strategic plan for 2027–2030. Within that framework, the government and WFP said they want to accelerate the national school-meals programme and reach nearly one million children. They also promoted a home-grown school-feeding model. This approach connects schools with nearby farmers so that at least part of the food served to pupils is produced and purchased locally. Continue Reading Full Article EDUCATION DRC and WFP Target School Meals for One Million Children By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jul 29, 2026 Jul 29, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Congolese government and the World Food Programme are preparing a new plan that could bring school meals to nearly one million children across the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa met WFP senior official Carl Skau in Kinshasa on Tuesday, 28 July. The two sides agreed to develop WFP’s next country strategic plan for the DRC, covering 2027 to 2030. School meals are expected to be one of its major priorities. The ambition is not only to provide food at school. The proposed model would increasingly purchase ingredients from Congolese small-scale farmers, allowing money spent on school meals to support agricultural families and local cooperatives. It is a potentially important national programme, but the expansion has not yet reached nearly one million children. The target, budget, provinces and annual rollout schedule must still be detailed in the new strategic plan. What did the government and WFP agree? According to the Journal de Kinshasa , the meeting focused on food security, nutrition, school meals and WFP’s support for the Ebola response. The main long-term decision was to prepare a four-year country strategic plan for 2027–2030. ADVERTISEMENT Within that framework, the government and WFP said they want to accelerate the national school-meals programme and reach nearly one million children. They also promoted a home-grown school-feeding model. This approach connects schools with nearby farmers so that at least part of the food served to pupils is produced and purchased locally. The meeting therefore established a direction and a target. It did not announce that one million children are already enrolled, that funding has been secured or that nationwide distribution has begun. Does the DRC already have school canteens? Yes. The new proposal builds on a programme that has already started on a smaller scale. Prime Minister Suminwa officially launched the government’s school-canteen initiative in Kalemie, Tanganyika province, in March 2026. The launch took place at Kifungo Primary School, which had nearly 250 pupils. The Primature said WFP was supporting 78 primary schools in Kalemie at the time. ADVERTISEMENT The government presented Kalemie as the starting point for progressive national expansion. It also said the programme would be financed with state resources and support from partners including WFP and the French Development Agency. The national strategy covers 2025–2030 and aims to give pupils at least one balanced meal during the school day. That means the July meeting did not create school meals from nothing. Its importance lies in the attempt to move from a limited rollout toward a much larger, nationally supported system. Why can a school meal change a child’s education? Learning becomes harder when a child arrives in class hungry. A reliable meal can give pupils a stronger reason to attend school and help families who struggle to provide food every day. It can also support concentration, nutrition and retention, especially in vulnerable or food-insecure communities. WFP describes school meals as both an education and social-protection measure. Its programmes are designed to support children’s health and learning while reducing some of the financial pressure on households. The need is especially serious in the DRC. WFP’s country information estimates that 26.5 million people face acute food insecurity. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . ADVERTISEMENT How could Congolese farmers benefit? The local-purchasing component could turn school canteens into regular customers for Congolese farmers. Instead of depending entirely on food brought from distant locations, schools could buy suitable products from nearby smallholders, cooperatives and community businesses. That could create demand for locally produced maize, beans, rice, cassava, vegetables, fruit and other foods, depending on provincial production and the nutritional standards adopted for school menus. The Food and Agriculture Organization says home-grown school feeding can offer small-scale farmers a regular market, create business opportunities and connect agriculture, nutrition and social protection. The possible chain is simple: Farmers grow food in or near participating communities. Schools or programme managers purchase approved products. Local workers transport, store and prepare the food. Pupils receive meals during the school day. Programme spending circulates through local farming communities. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty Will Democrats support Kagame after the 2026 midterms? Blinken's statements, Biden's Rwanda policy . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution In London, the DRC government spokesperson rejects constitutional politics as a cause of the eastern . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 Four firms will rebuild runways and terminals from Kalemie to Muanda under a Treasury-funded plan . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews Board vote set for December; minister says up to $771 million could follow if approved . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo

A new SGR rail link now connects DRC, Tanzania, and Burundi, boosting trade, stability, and regional integration under Africa's Agenda 2063. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania- August 2025; The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Tanzania have launched a transformative regional rail link that promises to redefine trade and connectivity across Central and East Africa. The new block train operating on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) now connects Dar es Salaam to Burundi and the DRC via Kindu, marking a milestone aligned with the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Representing President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Communication Channels and Access, Mr. Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, joined Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her Transport Minister Makame Mbarawa at the official launch ceremony in Dar es Salaam. A Game-Changer for Regional Trade The new SGR route positions the DRC, with over 100 million consumers, as a central market in the region and a catalyst for interstate commerce. For Burundi, the link offers a breakthrough: access to steady supplies of fuel and essential goods, reinforcing economic stability and food security through the elimination of seasonal shortages. This tripartite rail integration promises: • Faster movement of goods • Lower logistics costs • Stronger regional supply chains • Enhanced market access for landlocked countries As part of the launch, Tanzania Railway Corporation officially handed over rehabilitated freight wagons, financed by the Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency (ASTUCE), where the DRC is a key member state. Continue Reading Full Article REGIONAL ECONOMY DRC - Tanzania - Burundi Launch Regional Rail Link By Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Political Analyst Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Home Comment Aug 4, 2025 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania- August 2025; The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Tanzania have launched a transformative regional rail link that promises to redefine trade and connectivity across Central and East Africa. The new block train operating on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) now connects Dar es Salaam to Burundi and the DRC via Kindu, marking a milestone aligned with the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Representing President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Communication Channels and Access, Mr. Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, joined Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her Transport Minister Makame Mbarawa at the official launch ceremony in Dar es Salaam. A Game-Changer for Regional Trade The new SGR route positions the DRC, with over 100 million consumers, as a central market in the region and a catalyst for interstate commerce. For Burundi, the link offers a breakthrough: access to steady supplies of fuel and essential goods, reinforcing economic stability and food security through the elimination of seasonal shortages. This tripartite rail integration promises: • Faster movement of goods • Lower logistics costs • Stronger regional supply chains ADVERTISEMENT • Enhanced market access for landlocked countries As part of the launch, Tanzania Railway Corporation officially handed over rehabilitated freight wagons, financed by the Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency (ASTUCE), where the DRC is a key member state. In his remarks, VPM Jean-Pierre Bemba highlighted ongoing plans to operationalize dry ports in Tanzania that will serve Congolese cargo. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, the DRC government is finalizing the selection of a private partner to build dry ports on 45 hectares in Kwala and 15 hectares in Katosho. These dry ports will serve as strategic transit hubs for Congolese freight via the Port of Dar es Salaam,” Bemba stated. Direct Economic Impact for the DRC According to Minister Bemba, the new infrastructure projects will deliver tangible benefits for the Congolese economy: • Increased foreign direct investment (FDI) • Stronger anti-fraud and anti-smuggling systems • Enhanced traceability of cargo ADVERTISEMENT • Job creation in both the DRC and Tanzania These benefits align with Congo’s broader infrastructure vision and economic diplomacy under President Tshisekedi. Interconnecting Africa: Congo at the Center This launch is just one piece of a larger integration strategy. The DRC and Congo-Brazzaville are also set to begin construction by December 2025 on the long-awaited ROAD & RAIL bridge linking Kinshasa and Brazzaville, the two closest capitals in the world. Once completed, the project will connect the DRC to a broader economic corridor, tying into Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Angola, and Gabon, and reinforcing Congo’s position as a trigger economy for Africa. At the close of the ceremony, VPM Bemba delivered a personal message from President Félix Tshisekedi to President Samia Suluhu Hassan, expressing his strong commitment to regional integration. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . Economic Policies DR Congo and Russia Establish Permanent Economic Commission . Economic Reports DRC Exits FATF Grey List After Completing Reform Plan . Infrastructure Grand Inga Moves Forward as RDC-US Committee Meets in Paris . ADVERTISEMENT President Tshisekedi also conveyed his intent to co-chair the official launch ceremony of the Congolese dry port projects, once contract signing and technical procedures, especially those related to Congolese public tender laws, are finalized. The DRC-Tanzania - Burundi SGR block train isn’t just a railway; it’s a symbol of a shifting Africa. With strategic dry ports, trade corridors, and regional bridges now in motion, the DRC is emerging not only as a major market but as a logistics hub and economic engine for the continent. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews Board vote set for December; minister says up to $771 million could follow if approved . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid DR Congo opens a UK investment forum in London with nearly 90 British investors, seeking partnerships . Economic Policies DR Congo and Russia Establish Permanent Economic Commission A new bilateral commission will coordinate trade, technology, technical cooperation... . Economic Reports DRC Exits FATF Grey List After Completing Reform Plan The October 30 decision recognizes reforms to combat money laundering and strengthen.... . Tags DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo DR Congo Rising DR Congo Rising East Africa East Africa

The DRC can use global demand for cobalt, copper, lithium and tantalum to secure peace, investment, local processing and lasting prosperity. Congo’s sovereignty now has to be the essential condition for economic trade. The country’s leverage is its resources, chiefly cobalt, copper, lithium, and tantalum.” — Judi Rever The Democratic Republic of the Congo is no longer standing at the edge of the global economy. It is at the centre of the competition shaping the future of technology, clean energy, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and defence. China wants secure access to Congo’s minerals. The United States and its allies want diversified supply chains that reduce their dependence on Chinese processing. Global technology and automotive companies need the cobalt, copper, lithium and tantalum found beneath Congolese soil. That reality gives Kinshasa something far more valuable than attention: leverage. In a new analysis published by Canadian Dimension , Canadian investigative journalist Judi Rever argues that the DRC should use this exceptional position to place peace and sovereignty at the heart of every major minerals partnership. Her central message is direct: “Congo’s sovereignty now has to be the essential condition for economic trade.” That principle offers the DRC a powerful path forward. Access to Congolese minerals should produce more than export contracts. It should help secure territorial integrity, remove foreign forces and armed proxies from Congolese territory, strengthen transparent supply chains and generate visible development for the Congolese people. The world needs what Congo has The technologies driving the modern economy depend on minerals that the DRC possesses at extraordinary scale. Cobalt is essential for many electric-vehicle batteries, energy-storage systems and aerospace applications. Copper carries the electricity required for power grids, data centres, smart devices and industrial expansion. Lithium is central to battery production, while tantalum is used in electronics, telecommunications, aerospace equipment and other high-performance technologies. Continue Reading Full Article PEACE FOR DRC NOW Congo’s Minerals Are Global Power and Kinshasa should set the terms By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Sep 11, 2026 Sep 11, 2026 8 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Congo’s sovereignty now has to be the essential condition for economic trade. The country’s leverage is its resources, chiefly cobalt, copper, lithium, and tantalum.” — Judi Rever The Democratic Republic of the Congo is no longer standing at the edge of the global economy. It is at the centre of the competition shaping the future of technology, clean energy, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and defence. China wants secure access to Congo’s minerals. The United States and its allies want diversified supply chains that reduce their dependence on Chinese processing. Global technology and automotive companies need the cobalt, copper, lithium and tantalum found beneath Congolese soil. That reality gives Kinshasa something far more valuable than attention: leverage. In a new analysis published by Canadian Dimension , Canadian investigative journalist Judi Rever argues that the DRC should use this exceptional position to place peace and sovereignty at the heart of every major minerals partnership. Her central message is direct: “Congo’s sovereignty now has to be the essential condition for economic trade.” That principle offers the DRC a powerful path forward. Access to Congolese minerals should produce more than export contracts. It should help secure territorial integrity, remove foreign forces and armed proxies from Congolese territory, strengthen transparent supply chains and generate visible development for the Congolese people. The world needs what Congo has The technologies driving the modern economy depend on minerals that the DRC possesses at extraordinary scale. Cobalt is essential for many electric-vehicle batteries, energy-storage systems and aerospace applications. Copper carries the electricity required for power grids, data centres, smart devices and industrial expansion. Lithium is central to battery production, while tantalum is used in electronics, telecommunications, aerospace equipment and other high-performance technologies. The US Geological Survey’s 2026 mineral summaries reinforce the DRC’s importance as a world-leading source of cobalt and tantalum and as a major copper producer. Congo’s mineral wealth is therefore not peripheral to the global technological transition—it is one of its foundations. ADVERTISEMENT China understood this strategic reality early. Chinese companies became leading investors in Congolese copper and cobalt projects, supported by infrastructure-for-resources arrangements and long-term commercial partnerships. The United States is now moving to strengthen its own access to strategic minerals. American-backed investors have shown interest in Congolese copper, cobalt, lithium, gold, manganese and tantalum opportunities. The growing interest in the Manono lithium project further demonstrates how the DRC is becoming indispensable to the next generation of global battery supply chains. For Congo, this competition creates an opening to negotiate from strength. Peace should be the price of strategic access Judi Rever’s argument connects mineral diplomacy directly to the security crisis in eastern Congo. She contends that international partners seeking privileged access to Congolese resources should also support the restoration of Congolese authority throughout the national territory. This position is consistent with the commitments already placed at the centre of international diplomacy. The Washington peace framework recognizes territorial integrity and the withdrawal of foreign forces as essential elements of peace. In June 2026, the United States Treasury again stated that Rwanda must withdraw its troops and military equipment from the DRC and end support for M23. Kinshasa can build on these commitments by making security performance inseparable from economic cooperation. A minerals agreement should not be treated as complete when signatures are placed on paper. Its value to Congo should also be measured by whether it advances peace, protects communities, restores state authority, stops illicit mineral flows and creates legal economic opportunities in affected provinces. The message to every global partner can be constructive and firm: a peaceful Congo is the most reliable foundation for a secure mineral supply chain. ADVERTISEMENT Ending the trade in Congo’s stolen wealth The battle for eastern Congo is also a battle over who controls and profits from Congolese resources. The Global Witness investigation Who buys Rwanda’s smuggled coltan? traced coltan reportedly moved from DRC territory through Rwanda and onward to international traders and smelters. Its findings illustrate why mineral traceability is a sovereignty issue, not simply a corporate compliance exercise. Every tonne of Congolese mineral exported through an unauthorized network represents lost public revenue, weakened state authority and fewer resources for roads, schools, hospitals, electricity and employment. The international demand for responsible supply chains gives the DRC another source of negotiating power. Kinshasa can insist that buyers recognize Congolese origin, exclude supply linked to armed control, disclose traders and smelters, and support traceability systems led by Congolese institutions. Major technology, automotive and defence companies should be able to demonstrate that their products do not depend on minerals removed from Congo through violence or illegal cross-border networks. From mineral access to Congolese prosperity Peace is the first return Congo should demand—but it should not be the only one. Future partnerships can help move the DRC from exporting raw materials toward processing, refining and manufacturing more of its minerals at home. That means creating Congolese jobs in geological research, engineering, mineral certification, transport, battery materials, component production, logistics and industrial services. Strategic agreements can also be tied to measurable infrastructure: reliable electricity for mining communities, rehabilitated roads and railways, modern border facilities, clean drinking water, technical schools, hospitals and digital systems that make revenue collection more transparent. For young Congolese people, the minerals race should translate into scholarships, apprenticeships, technology transfer and careers in the industries their country helps power. For producing communities, it should deliver visible social investment, environmental restoration and a fair share of the wealth generated from their land. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Patriotism Tshisekedi Urges Congolese in Russia to Be DRC Ambassadors . Diplomacy Tshisekedi, Putin Seal Three DRC- Russia Cooperation Deals . Economic Policies DR Congo and Russia Establish Permanent Economic Commission . Politics & Diplomacy Tshisekedi Champions Peace, Jobs and Africa’s Voice in Moscow . Investment Deals DRC Creates Task Force to Accelerate U.S. Minerals Deal . ADVERTISEMENT For the Congolese state, it should strengthen control over production, taxation, certification and exports. This is how natural resources become national power. Congo can negotiate with both East and West The DRC does not need to become a passive prize in a confrontation between China and the United States. Its strongest position is to remain sovereign, pragmatic and focused on Congolese interests. Kinshasa can work with China, the United States, Europe, the Gulf states and other partners while applying the same national standard to every agreement: respect Congo’s sovereignty, support peace, create local value, transfer skills, build infrastructure and deliver measurable benefits to citizens. Competition among global powers can work in Congo’s favour when the country defines its priorities clearly and negotiates confidently. The world is racing for the minerals of the future. The DRC possesses those minerals today. That gives Congo the right—and the responsibility—to demand partnerships worthy of its strategic importance. The country should never again be asked to exchange its wealth for promises while its people carry the cost of conflict. Congo’s minerals can power the world, but they must first help secure Congo’s peace, sovereignty and prosperity. That is the opportunity before Kinshasa. And this time, Congo holds the cards. About the original analysis This article draws on arguments advanced by Montréal journalist Judi Rever in “The US and China want Congo’s minerals. Kinshasa should demand peace in return” , published by Canadian Dimension . Rever is the author of In Praise of Blood: The Crimes of the Rwandan Patriotic Front and Rwanda’s 30-Year Assault on Congo: The Crimes, the Criminals, and the Cover-Up . ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Patriotism Tshisekedi Urges Congolese in Russia to Be DRC Ambassadors Meeting the Congolese diaspora in Moscow, Tshisekedi calls for patriotism, academic excellence . Diplomacy Tshisekedi, Putin Seal Three DRC- Russia Cooperation Deals The two presidents oversee agreements on economic cooperation, healthcare and education . Economic Policies DR Congo and Russia Establish Permanent Economic Commission A new bilateral commission will coordinate trade, technology, technical cooperation... . Politics & Diplomacy Tshisekedi Champions Peace, Jobs and Africa’s Voice in Moscow At the 2026 Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow, Tshisekedi calls for peace in eastern Congo... . Tags DRC Diplomacy & Peace DRC Diplomacy & Peace DR.Congo DR.Congo DRC Conflict & Security DRC Conflict & Security Featured News Featured News

Discover the bold legacy of Félix Tshisekedi, the DRC president transforming his nation while confronting foreign interference and restoring dignity. A Legacy Forged in Struggle Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo is not just the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo; he is the embodiment of a generational struggle for dignity, democracy, and independence. From his father's exile under Mobutu to his own resistance against foreign meddling today, Tshisekedi’s journey is the story of Congo’s long-awaited awakening. Born in 1963 in Kinshasa, just after Congo's independence from Belgium, Félix Tshisekedi inherited a name synonymous with resistance. His father, Étienne Tshisekedi , was a legendary opposition leader who stood fearlessly against dictatorship. Under Mobutu, the Tshisekedi family suffered house arrest and exile, but the dream of a free, just Congo never died. After years of political apprenticeship, including leading the UDPS diaspora branch in Brussels, Félix returned home to build from within. In 2019, against all odds, he was sworn in as the DRC’s fifth president, the first peaceful transition of power in Congo’s post-colonial history. Rising Amid Shadows: Governing with Resilience Tshisekedi assumed office under a shadow: his predecessor Joseph Kabila’s party held sway over parliament, the military, and the intelligence services. Many expected Tshisekedi to be a puppet. But the son of Étienne Tshisekedi had different plans. With careful diplomacy, Tshisekedi navigated power-sharing with Kabila’s loyalists while subtly consolidating his own base. His presidency has been marked by strategic appointments, assertive reforms, and bold assertions of sovereignty. Within two years, he outmaneuvered Kabila’s camp, eventually dissolving the power pact and asserting true presidential control, a rare feat in post-conflict African politics. Restoring the Nation’s Soul President Tshisekedi did not stop at internal reforms. He launched initiatives to heal a wounded nation. He pardoned over 700 political prisoners jailed under Kabila. He called home exiles who had long fled persecution. These symbolic acts rekindled faith in Congolese democracy. Education, too, became a national mission. With the introduction of free primary schooling, more than five million children entered classrooms, an investment not just in human capital but in dignity. Mothers in Kinshasa now receive free maternity care in public hospitals, part of a larger promise of universal access to healthcare. Continue Reading Full Article TSHISEKEDI LEGACY Félix Tshisekedi: Champion of Change and Sovereignty in DR Congo By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jul 22, 2025 Oct 19, 2026 7 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A Legacy Forged in Struggle Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo is not just the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo; he is the embodiment of a generational struggle for dignity, democracy, and independence. From his father's exile under Mobutu to his own resistance against foreign meddling today, Tshisekedi’s journey is the story of Congo’s long-awaited awakening. Born in 1963 in Kinshasa, just after Congo's independence from Belgium, Félix Tshisekedi inherited a name synonymous with resistance. His father, Étienne Tshisekedi , was a legendary opposition leader who stood fearlessly against dictatorship. Under Mobutu, the Tshisekedi family suffered house arrest and exile, but the dream of a free, just Congo never died. After years of political apprenticeship, including leading the UDPS diaspora branch in Brussels, Félix returned home to build from within. In 2019, against all odds, he was sworn in as the DRC’s fifth president, the first peaceful transition of power in Congo’s post-colonial history. Rising Amid Shadows: Governing with Resilience Tshisekedi assumed office under a shadow: his predecessor Joseph Kabila’s party held sway over parliament, the military, and the intelligence services. Many expected Tshisekedi to be a puppet. But the son of Étienne Tshisekedi had different plans. With careful diplomacy, Tshisekedi navigated power-sharing with Kabila’s loyalists while subtly consolidating his own base. His presidency has been marked by strategic appointments, assertive reforms, and bold assertions of sovereignty. Within two years, he outmaneuvered Kabila’s camp, eventually dissolving the power pact and asserting true presidential control, a rare feat in post-conflict African politics. Restoring the Nation’s Soul President Tshisekedi did not stop at internal reforms. He launched initiatives to heal a wounded nation. He pardoned over 700 political prisoners jailed under Kabila. He called home exiles who had long fled persecution. These symbolic acts rekindled faith in Congolese democracy. ADVERTISEMENT Education, too, became a national mission. With the introduction of free primary schooling, more than five million children entered classrooms, an investment not just in human capital but in dignity. Mothers in Kinshasa now receive free maternity care in public hospitals, part of a larger promise of universal access to healthcare. Under his leadership, the national budget nearly tripled, from $6 billion in 2019 to $16 billion by 2024. Even amid global pandemics and inflationary shocks, Congo’s economy is growing. For the first time in decades, Congolese people are starting to feel their government’s presence beyond the capital. The Defender of Congo’s Riches Tshisekedi’s fight for Congo’s future extends to its mineral wealth. Not only has he demanded a renegotiation of imbalanced mining deals with China, contracts that deprived Congolese people of their rightful share, but he has also championed a strategic new partnership with the United States. In July 2025, he personally endorsed an agreement allowing KoBold Metals, a mining firm backed by Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos, to secure exploration rights at Manono, a world-class lithium deposit, and launch a large-scale mineral exploration program, including cobalt, copper, nickel, and lithium. This deal, which will see the digitization of geological records and billions in U.S. investment, positions Congo as a leader in ethical, high-tech mining and counters Chinese dominance This firm stance has elevated Congo on the global stage. The world now watches as Kinshasa asserts itself not as a pawn in foreign chess games, but as a proud partner demanding equitable, forward-looking terms from all sides. Standing Tall Against Kagame’s Imperialism Perhaps the most defining chapter of President Félix Tshisekedi’s leadership is his bold and unrelenting confrontation with Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, a regional strongman who operated for decades in the shadows of eastern Congo, exploiting instability to plunder minerals and control territory through rebel proxies. ADVERTISEMENT For years, Kagame backed armed groups like M23 , orchestrating chaos in North Kivu and Ituri while profiting from the looting of Congolese resources. While previous Congolese leaders often bowed to external pressure or turned a blind eye, Tshisekedi charted a different course, one rooted in sovereignty, accountability, and national dignity. In 2019, Tshisekedi extended an olive branch to Kagame by inviting him to his father’s funeral, signaling a willingness to reset relations. But by 2023, that diplomatic veneer had collapsed. A wave of UN reports exposed the undeniable: Rwanda was actively supporting M23, deploying troops across the border under the guise of “defensive operations.” Tshisekedi acted decisively, expelling the ineffective East African force and turning instead to trusted allies within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Then came the watershed moment: the Washington Accord was signed on June 27, 2025. In front of international mediators and U.S. officials, Rwanda finally admitted its “defensive presence” in Congo, a diplomatic phrase that masked the reality of illegal troop deployments. That moment shattered Kagame’s carefully crafted narrative. His regime, once portrayed as a peacekeeper, now stood exposed as the aggressor. Weeks later, the Doha Declaration of Principles between the DRC and M23 marked a pivotal breakthrough. For the first time, M23 rebels formally agreed to allow the Congolese state to reassert control over eastern territories. They vowed to stop indefinitely occupying towns, a quiet but clear admission that Kagame’s strategy was collapsing under diplomatic pressure. In Bukavu, during his re-election campaign, Tshisekedi pulled no punches. He publicly compared Kagame to “ the Hitler of Africa. ” delivering a thunderous rebuke that echoed across the Great Lakes region. While critics saw the statement as extreme, many Congolese viewed it as long overdue, a necessary reckoning with a man responsible for decades of violence and plunder. Tshisekedi’s message now resonates far beyond Congo’s borders: the era of foreign-backed aggression is over. The days when Paul Kagame acted with impunity in Congolese affairs are rapidly ending. Not through war, but through firm diplomacy, principled resistance, and an unshakable commitment to national sovereignty, President Tshisekedi has done what many thought impossible: he stood up to a dictator and won. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation . ADVERTISEMENT A Second Term with Clear Vision Now re-elected for a second term, Félix Tshisekedi carries the weight of expectation and the momentum of hope. He has promised more jobs, stronger economic resilience, and an end to insecurity in the East. He has made mistakes, yes. His critics remain vocal. But his resolve is unwavering. In a region plagued by coups and chaos, Tshisekedi stands as a constitutionalist. In a world of autocrats, he pardons dissidents. And where others bowed to Kagame’s shadow empire, Tshisekedi drew a red line: “The withdrawal of Rwandan troops and M23 is non-negotiable. “ Conclusion: Fatshi the Nation-Builder Félix Tshisekedi is no longer just the son of Étienne. He is the man charting a new course for Congo, a nation long defined by suffering, now daring to dream again. He does not claim to have built the “Germany of Africa” yet. But by reclaiming Congo’s minerals, its sovereignty, and its voice, he is laying the foundation for a future built not on dependency, but dignity. And for that, history will remember him not only as a president, but as a turning point. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health Lawmakers back four financing bills supporting entrepreneurs, primary education, maternal health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers DRC approves FGADEC, a national deposit-guarantee fund designed to protect eligible savings, . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll DRC plans to make salary inclusion a 2027 budget priority, aiming to progressively bring eligible . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure DRC plans more than $440 million in its 2027 budget for rural water, electricity and basic . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics DR.Congo DR.Congo Felix Tshisekedi Felix Tshisekedi

Learn how to apply for NSFAS funding in South Africa. Step-by-step guide for creating your myNSFAS account, documents needed, and application process. Are you ready to apply for NSFAS bursary funding but not sure where to start? This guide explains the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) application process in simple steps to help you secure funding for your studies at TVET colleges or public universities in South Africa. What is NSFAS? NSFAS is a government scheme that offers financial assistance to deserving South African students for registration, tuition, books, accommodation, transport, food, and personal care needs. Over the past 28 years, NSFAS has helped more than 4 million students achieve their education dreams. Who Qualifies for NSFAS? You can apply if you are: A South African citizen A SASSA grant recipient From a household earning less than R350,000 per year A person with a disability from a household earning less than R600,000 per year A student who first registered at university before 2018 with a household income of less than R122,000 per year Continue Reading Full Article STUDENTS PORTAL How to Apply for NSFAS Funding in South Africa – Simple Guide By Wilson Munezero Government Services & Opportunities Expert Wilson Munezero Home Comment Jun 27, 2025 Aug 21, 2026 9 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Are you ready to apply for NSFAS bursary funding but not sure where to start? This guide explains the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) application process in simple steps to help you secure funding for your studies at TVET colleges or public universities in South Africa. What is NSFAS? NSFAS is a government scheme that offers financial assistance to deserving South African students for registration, tuition, books, accommodation, transport, food, and personal care needs. Over the past 28 years, NSFAS has helped more than 4 million students achieve their education dreams. Who Qualifies for NSFAS? You can apply if you are: A South African citizen A SASSA grant recipient From a household earning less than R350,000 per year A person with a disability from a household earning less than R600,000 per year A student who first registered at university before 2018 with a household income of less than R122,000 per year Who Should Not Apply? Students who have completed a previous qualification (unless applying for an approved funded postgraduate qualification) Students already funded by NSFAS for the duration of their studies Documents Needed for NSFAS Application Here’s what you need to prepare: ✔️ Copy of your South African ID ✔️ Consent from parent(s), guardian, or spouse to use their personal information ✔️ If dependent on parents or spouse: Their ID copies Proof of income (payslips or appointment letters) ✔️ If self-sufficient: Proof of income Latest IRP5 form ✔️ If you have a disability: Completed Disability Annexure A Form ✔️ If under 18 or a vulnerable child: ADVERTISEMENT Completed Vulnerable Child Declaration and Consent Form from a social worker ✔️ Other documents if applicable: Retrenchment letter Death certificates Divorce decree Note: SASSA recipients do not need to submit proof of income. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, certified documents are not required. How to Apply for NSFAS – Step by Step Create a myNSFAS Account Go to www.nsfas.org.za , click myNSFAS , then REGISTER . Provide: Your valid email address & cellphone number Your South African ID number ✔️ You’ll receive a One Time Pin (OTP) via SMS and email. Enter it to confirm your account. Complete Your Application Click the ‘Apply’ tab on your myNSFAS profile Confirm your pre-populated personal details Fill in any additional required fields Upload all supporting documents Agree to the terms and conditions Click ‘Submit’ ✔️ You will receive an Application Reference Number by SMS and email. Track Your Application Log in to your myNSFAS account anytime to track your application status. Forgot Your myNSFAS Password or Username? Go to www.nsfas.org.za Click myNSFAS then Forgot Password Enter your ID number and choose to reset your password or username Follow the SMS and email prompts to update your login details Final Tips ✅ Always provide the correct ID number, name, and surname as in your ID document ✅ Keep your myNSFAS username and password safe and confidential Useful NSFAS Contacts 🌐 Website: www.nsfas.org.za ADVERTISEMENT 📧 Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme 📷 Instagram: myNSFAS 🐦 Twitter: myNSFAS Source This blog is based on the NSFAS 2021 Application How to Apply Digital Brochure , available on NSFAS official site . NSFAS Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ✅ Q1: What is NSFAS? A: NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) is a government program that provides loans and grants to help students from poor households access higher education and training in South Africa. ✅ Q2: Who qualifies for NSFAS funding? A: Students from households earning less than R122,000 per year qualify, though there are calls to raise this threshold to include more students from middle-income families who still cannot afford tuition. ✅ Q3: What does NSFAS funding cover? A: Funding can cover tuition fees, accommodation, food, books, transport, and other study-related expenses. TVET grants are direct and not repayable, while university loans are repayable but may be converted partly into bursaries. ✅ Q4: Do NSFAS loans have to be repaid? A: Yes, university loans are repayable after graduation based on income. Repayments start when a graduate earns over R30,000 per year , at rates between 3% and 8% of gross income . ✅ Q5: How does NSFAS incentivise student success? A: NSFAS converts parts of student loans into bursaries if students meet academic goals. Final-year loans can be fully converted upon graduation, encouraging students to complete their studies. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Students Portal NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements . Students Guide NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements . Students Guide NSFAS 2026 Application Status: How to Check . Students Portal NSFAS Supporting Documents: How to Upload Forms . Students Portal How to Apply for NSFAS Funding in South Africa – Simple Guide . ADVERTISEMENT ✅ Q6: Why is NSFAS important for South Africa? A: It helps break the cycle of poverty by enabling youth from poor households to obtain tertiary education, boosting skills development and economic inclusion nationwide. ✅ Q7: What is the new student-centred NSFAS model? A: The new model centralises applications, verifies eligibility automatically, and sustains funding as long as students meet academic requirements. It prioritises full coverage for some students rather than partial awards to many. ✅ Q8: What challenges does NSFAS face? A: Challenges include low loan repayment rates, outdated repayment thresholds, funding limits not matching rising tuition costs, and administrative inconsistencies across institutions. ✅ Q9: Has NSFAS funding increased over time? A: Yes. Funding rose from R3.7 billion in 2010 to R9 billion in 2014 , supporting nearly 425,000 students by 2014. ✅ Q10: What are the National Development Plan goals related to NSFAS? A: Goals include increasing higher education participation to 25% , raising graduates to 425,000 by 2030 , and improving throughput rates to 75% , which would require doubling NSFAS loan disbursements. ✅ Q11. What is the 'missing middle'? These are students from working-class families who earn too much to qualify for NSFAS but cannot afford to pay for university themselves. The government is exploring ways to support them. ✅ Q12. Where can I read the full NSFAS Performance and Expenditure Review (PER) report? The full report is available at www.gtac.gov.za/programmes-and-services/public-expenditure-and-policy-analysis . ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Students Portal NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements NSFAS Trimester 3 applications close today, 23 August 2026. Check requirements and apply through . Students Guide NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements Apply for NSFAS TVET Trimester 3 funding by 23 August 2026. Check eligibility, documents, . Students Guide NSFAS 2026 Application Status: How to Check Check your NSFAS 2026 application status online, understand each result, upload missing . Students Portal NSFAS Supporting Documents: How to Upload Forms Asked to upload missing NSFAS documents? See the official forms . Tags NSFAS NSFAS South Africans Students Portal South Africans Students Portal South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services

Mursi women’s lip plates in Ethiopia began as protection from slave traders and are now a powerful symbol of culture, beauty, and tourism statu When the conversation turns to the reasons for this fashion among the Ethiopian Mursi tribe, I often hear the opinion: These Africans generally love something pretentious. They can do it. But any extravagance has its history. For example, this is the coloring of other African tribes: The South African Zulu tribe borrowed the striped coloring of zebras not only for the sake of beauty. It turned out that such stripes protect against dangerous tsetse flies, which carry terrible diseases for humans. The flies lose their orientation and do not bite those with black and white stripes. Let's get back to Mursi, though. Of course, such traditions must have their good reasons, especially if we are talking about such an inconvenient accessory. It's not just a matter of braiding and weaving. Such tuning of the body obviously complicates the life of its owner, and you can't call it aesthetically valuable. Often, such a plate is combined with shaving the head bald. Both are not signs of femininity in all cultures. Is it just that the Mursi tribe and their neighbors have a perverted sense of beauty? Not at all. The reasons come from past centuries and they were quite practical. The main reason for this fashion was to disfigure their women to protect them from the interest of Arab slave traders. The Arabs willingly bought Ethiopian slaves, they were highly valued both for their appearance and for their physical characteristics. And they were often sold into slavery by... their own Ethiopians. The local aristocracy raided the Ethiopian tribes and captured valuable human "goods" to sell to the Middle East and Europe. Just as stripes protected the Zulus from tsetse flies, so disfigurement - with disks and shaving the head - protected the Ethiopian tribes from slave traders. They became " unmarketable goods ." Yes, such decorations were found before - and not only in Ethiopia but also in Sudan. For example, disks were found that were made about 6 thousand years ago BC, Long before any slave traders. In some tribes, this was even a sign of high social status. But these were rare, one-off stories. Continue Reading Full Article Mursi Tribe: Sad History of Lip Plates and Traditions By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jun 26, 2025 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: When the conversation turns to the reasons for this fashion among the Ethiopian Mursi tribe, I often hear the opinion: These Africans generally love something pretentious. They can do it. But any extravagance has its history. For example, this is the coloring of other African tribes: The South African Zulu tribe borrowed the striped coloring of zebras not only for the sake of beauty. It turned out that such stripes protect against dangerous tsetse flies, which carry terrible diseases for humans. The flies lose their orientation and do not bite those with black and white stripes. Zulu tribes traditionally wear minimal clothing, often adorned with beaded accessories and animal hides Let's get back to Mursi, though. Of course, such traditions must have their good reasons, especially if we are talking about such an inconvenient accessory. It's not just a matter of braiding and weaving. Such tuning of the body obviously complicates the life of its owner, and you can't call it aesthetically valuable. Often, such a plate is combined with shaving the head bald. Both are not signs of femininity in all cultures. Is it just that the Mursi tribe and their neighbors have a perverted sense of beauty? ADVERTISEMENT Not at all. The reasons come from past centuries and they were quite practical. The main reason for this fashion was to disfigure their women to protect them from the interest of Arab slave traders. The Arabs willingly bought Ethiopian slaves, they were highly valued both for their appearance and for their physical characteristics. And they were often sold into slavery by... their own Ethiopians. The local aristocracy raided the Ethiopian tribes and captured valuable human "goods" to sell to the Middle East and Europe. 19th-century engraving of an Arab slave trading caravan transporting African slaves across the Sahara to North Africa Just as stripes protected the Zulus from tsetse flies, so disfigurement - with disks and shaving the head - protected the Ethiopian tribes from slave traders. They became " unmarketable goods ." Yes, such decorations were found before - and not only in Ethiopia but also in Sudan. For example, disks were found that were made about 6 thousand years ago BC, Long before any slave traders. In some tribes, this was even a sign of high social status. But these were rare, one-off stories. Lip plate The mass use of disks in combination with a shaved head entered the culture of some African tribes precisely for protection from slave traders. That is, the tribesmen themselves did not consider this a sign of beauty. ADVERTISEMENT Now this tradition is only preserved by the Mursi tribe. They live in a place surrounded by mountains between two rivers. And their land is one of the most isolated regions of Ethiopia. With the end of the slave trade, this tradition was temporarily forgotten. But in the age of the Internet, it was remembered again. Tourists love to come here and take pictures with locals. Of course, the Mursi also earn good money on these excursions - this is almost their main source of income. Now local girls insert disks into themselves at the age of 15 to 18. And they are considered enviable brides. Although most people here do not remember what this tradition is connected with. Now they compete with each other in outrageousness. The largest disc was recorded by Ethiopian Ataya Eligidagn - 59.6 cm. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today African Culture Disability-Selective Infanticide: The Hidden History in Maasailand . African Culture Zee Nxumalo Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise . African Culture Wendy Shay Biography: Age, Nursing Career, Songs & AFRIMA Win . African Culture Vinka Biography: Real Name, Songs, Family & Music Career . African Culture Vestine & Dorcas Biography: Ages, Family, Songs & Career . ADVERTISEMENT Old African Ethiopian Mursi Tribe Clay Lip Plate The tradition, by the way, is harmful to health. It often provokes infections, and is very harmful to teeth, loosening them and damaging gums. Until the age of 15, local girls don’t think about fancy lip tuning Some Latin American tribes have this tradition independently of Africa. But their disks are also much smaller - no more than 6 cm in diameter, and the reasons are more related to religious beliefs. And local men insert such disks when they leave their parents' house and are considered adults. This is also considered a sign of a skilled orator and singer. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles African Culture Disability-Selective Infanticide: The Hidden History in Maasailand Field evidence exposes a history of killing, abandonment and neglect and the Maasai resisting it . 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