Kinshasa War College graduated 27 senior officers, including 11 international trainees, strengthening FARDC leadership and regional defence cooperation. The Kinshasa War College (EGK) officially closed its sixth training cycle on July 8, 2026, with 27 senior officers receiving higher military education certificates, according to Radio Okapi . Among the graduates were 11 international trainees, reflecting the school’s growing regional reach. Ten officers also earned a Master II in strategic studies, defence and disaster management from the University of Kinshasa. Established through defence cooperation between France and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the EGK prepares FARDC officers for senior strategic and command responsibilities. The French Embassy said its support for the institution is aimed at strengthening Congolese military expertise and helping the DRC protect its sovereignty, defend its territorial integrity and improve national security. Since its creation, the school has trained 154 senior officers, including 110 Congolese. It is also part of the Francophone War Colleges Network and the International Network of Security and Defence Schools. The EGK now aims to become a regional centre of excellence serving countries across Central, East and Southern Africa. PEACE AND SECURITY Kinshasa War College Graduates 27 Senior Officers By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jul 10, 2026 Jul 10, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Kinshasa War College (EGK) officially closed its sixth training cycle on July 8, 2026, with 27 senior officers receiving higher military education certificates, according to Radio Okapi . Among the graduates were 11 international trainees, reflecting the school’s growing regional reach. Ten officers also earned a Master II in strategic studies, defence and disaster management from the University of Kinshasa. ADVERTISEMENT Established through defence cooperation between France and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the EGK prepares FARDC officers for senior strategic and command responsibilities. The French Embassy said its support for the institution is aimed at strengthening Congolese military expertise and helping the DRC protect its sovereignty, defend its territorial integrity and improve national security. ADVERTISEMENT Since its creation, the school has trained 154 senior officers, including 110 Congolese. It is also part of the Francophone War Colleges Network and the International Network of Security and Defence Schools. The EGK now aims to become a regional centre of excellence serving countries across Central, East and Southern 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 Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas . Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" Tshisekedi says armed groups cannot turn military conquest into political legitimacy, . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% Rwanda faces surging prices at home as US sanctions and tighter external financing add pressure abroad. . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform The three-month process will reach all 26 provinces and seek consensus on peace, cohesion and . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas Kinshasa says students will not restart their studies as temporary measures protect academic records, . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo FARDC Congo FARDC Congo FARDC FARDC

HRW reports Rwanda-backed M23 rebels massacred over 140 civilians near Virunga Park in eastern Congo, sparking calls for justice and international action. Introduction The densely forested hills of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have witnessed some of the world’s most brutal conflicts. In July 2025, they became the setting for one of the deadliest massacres in recent memory. A Human Rights Watch (HRW) investigation reports that fighters from the M23 rebellion, a group backed and reinforced by Rwanda’s armed forces, executed over 140 civilians – mostly ethnic Hutu farmers – across at least 14 villages around the edges of Virunga National Park . The killings, which may exceed 300 fatalities according to United Nations human‑rights monitors, took place just weeks after the DRC and Rwanda signed a Washington‑brokered peace deal and the M23 agreed to a ceasefire in Doha. Survivors describe a slaughter that lasted nearly three weeks: men, women, and children were marched from their homes and farms to riverbanks, shot or hacked with machetes, and dumped in the Rutshuru River This report for XTRAfrica examines the chain of command behind the attacks, the methods of terror used to intimidate farming communities, allegations of ethnic targeting, forced disappearances and detentions, the evidence collected, the denials from Kigali and M23, and the regional and international response. It is written in a neutral, investigative style but reflects Congo’s demand for justice and accountability. Chain of Command: Sanctioned Leaders and Deafening Silence Human Rights Watch believes the killings were orchestrated by senior M23 commanders operating in alliance with Rwanda’s military. Witnesses identified the perpetrators as the 1st Battalion of M23’s 1st Brigade, commanded by Colonel Samuel Mushagara, under the leadership of Brigadier General Baudoin Ngaruye. Ngaruye has been under United Nations sanctions since 2013 for previous war crimes. Residents also saw uniformed soldiers they described as members of Rwanda’s Defence Force (RDF), participating in and supervising the massacres . On the administrative side, M23’s political leader Bertrand Bisimwa remained silent even as villagers begged for help, raising questions about chain‑of‑command responsibility. Colonel Claude Imani, the group’s economic coordinator, oversaw the movement’s “work tax”, demanding US$10 from farmers for permission to cultivate fields in occupied areas. In June, Imani temporarily allowed farmers to return to their fields after payments were made; weeks later, many of those same farmers were slaughtered. Under international law, commanders who knew about the crimes and failed to prevent them can be held criminally responsible, yet M23 leadership has offered no acknowledgement, let alone contrition. Methods of Killing and Terror Survivors recounted a systematic pattern of terror. In one village, a woman described being forced to march with about 70 women and children to the banks of the Rutshuru River; M23 fighters ordered them to sit, then began shooting. She survived only because she fell into the water. Continue Reading Full Article INVESTIGATIVE M23 Massacres in Congo: 140 Civilians Killed Near Virunga – HRW By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Aug 20, 2025 May 15, 2026 11 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Introduction The densely forested hills of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have witnessed some of the world’s most brutal conflicts. In July 2025, they became the setting for one of the deadliest massacres in recent memory. A Human Rights Watch (HRW) investigation reports that fighters from the M23 rebellion, a group backed and reinforced by Rwanda’s armed forces, executed over 140 civilians – mostly ethnic Hutu farmers – across at least 14 villages around the edges of Virunga National Park . The killings, which may exceed 300 fatalities according to United Nations human‑rights monitors, took place just weeks after the DRC and Rwanda signed a Washington‑brokered peace deal and the M23 agreed to a ceasefire in Doha. Survivors describe a slaughter that lasted nearly three weeks: men, women, and children were marched from their homes and farms to riverbanks, shot or hacked with machetes, and dumped in the Rutshuru River This report for XTRAfrica examines the chain of command behind the attacks, the methods of terror used to intimidate farming communities, allegations of ethnic targeting, forced disappearances and detentions, the evidence collected, the denials from Kigali and M23, and the regional and international response. It is written in a neutral, investigative style but reflects Congo’s demand for justice and accountability. Chain of Command: Sanctioned Leaders and Deafening Silence Human Rights Watch believes the killings were orchestrated by senior M23 commanders operating in alliance with Rwanda’s military. Witnesses identified the perpetrators as the 1st Battalion of M23’s 1st Brigade, commanded by Colonel Samuel Mushagara, under the leadership of Brigadier General Baudoin Ngaruye. Ngaruye has been under United Nations sanctions since 2013 for previous war crimes. Residents also saw uniformed soldiers they described as members of Rwanda’s Defence Force (RDF), participating in and supervising the massacres . On the administrative side, M23’s political leader Bertrand Bisimwa remained silent even as villagers begged for help, raising questions about chain‑of‑command responsibility. Colonel Claude Imani, the group’s economic coordinator, oversaw the movement’s “work tax”, demanding US$10 from farmers for permission to cultivate fields in occupied areas. In June, Imani temporarily allowed farmers to return to their fields after payments were made; weeks later, many of those same farmers were slaughtered. Under international law, commanders who knew about the crimes and failed to prevent them can be held criminally responsible, yet M23 leadership has offered no acknowledgement, let alone contrition. Methods of Killing and Terror Survivors recounted a systematic pattern of terror. In one village, a woman described being forced to march with about 70 women and children to the banks of the Rutshuru River; M23 fighters ordered them to sit, then began shooting. She survived only because she fell into the water. Another man recalled watching from a hiding place as rebels killed his wife and four children, aged nine months to ten years ADVERTISEMENT HRW investigators documented multiple executions carried out with machetes; some victims were decapitated, and entire families were wiped out. The killings often took place in farming areas that M23 had first isolated by blocking roads and destroying paths, preventing escape. Bodies were dumped into rivers or left to decompose in the fields, and fighters ordered relatives to bury the dead quickly or leave them unburied. Survivors were not allowed to hold funerals, a strategy that both instilled fear and denied communities the ability to mourn. Ethnic Targeting and the FDLR M23’s July offensive appears to have been aimed at areas populated largely by Hutu and Nande farmers. HRW reports that most of the victims were ethnic Hutu, with some Nande villagers among those killed. The massacres occurred near areas where the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) – a remnant Hutu militia implicated in the 1994 Rwandan genocide – operates. While M23 and Kigali portray their offensive as a counter‑insurgency against the FDLR, the deliberate killing of civilians in villages surrounding FDLR positions suggests a strategy that conflates an entire ethnic group with armed adversaries. This targeting has inflamed ethnic tensions. The Rwandan government has long justified intervention in eastern Congo by citing security threats posed by the FDLR. However, CFR’s Global Conflict Tracker notes that Kigali’s support for the M23 has destabilised the region, contributing to a conflict that has displaced millions . Hutu leaders accuse the Kagame government of pursuing a campaign of ethnic cleansing under the guise of anti‑genocide operations. The mass killings in July provide the most chilling evidence yet that ordinary Hutu farmers were treated as enemy combatants. War on Farmers: Starvation as a Weapon Beyond outright killings, the M23 tried to control rural populations by controlling their food supply. In June, the group imposed a US$10 “work tax” on every farmer seeking to harvest crops. HRW notes that residents paid the fee reluctantly and were allowed to return to their fields for a few weeks before July’s massacre. Survivors said they felt they had to choose between starvation and risking their lives; many decided to cultivate their plots because hunger was already acute. Killing farmers in their fields during harvest season appears designed to deepen food insecurity. HRW investigators emphasise that the farmland in question does exist and has long been cultivated, despite M23’s later claims that there were no crops in the area. By attacking farmers and destroying crops, M23 effectively weaponised hunger, a tactic with deep roots in eastern Congo’s conflicts. Disappearances and Mass Detentions While many killings occurred in the open, M23 also detained dozens of men during the same period. On 30 July, local leaders in Ishasha, a trading hub near the Uganda border, announced over loudspeakers that all men under 45 should assemble. HRW reports that at least 120 men were marched to the border post and detained; some were later released, but others remain missing. Families who attempted to inquire about detained relatives were threatened, and many have fled in fear of further reprisals. Such disappearances not only traumatise communities but also potentially constitute enforced disappearances, a serious violation of international law. ADVERTISEMENT Evidence Trail: Witnesses, Forensics, and Satellite Data The strength of the HRW report lies in its meticulous evidence collection. Researchers conducted over 70 interviews, including 25 eyewitness accounts, as well as testimonies from medical workers, military, and U.N. personnel. They gathered photographs and videos showing victims with bound hands and machete wounds, which forensic experts reviewed to confirm the causes of death. Satellite imagery corroborated local reports by pinpointing the burning of homes and fields in at least 14 villages. The U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights independently verified and amplified HRW’s findings. U.N. human‑rights chief Volker Türk confirmed that at least 319 civilians, including 48 women and 19 children, were killed between 9 and 21 July . Türk called on all parties to stop attacks on civilians and to hold perpetrators accountable. The U.N. also noted that the massacre occurred despite peace agreements signed in Washington and Doha, underscoring the fragility of diplomatic efforts Denial vs. Proof: Kigali, M23 and “State Denialism” Both M23 and Rwanda strongly deny responsibility. In statements quoted by Reuters, M23 official Benjamin Mbonimpa claimed that areas under their control were well administered and that the group was being gratuitously blamed. Rwanda dismissed U.N. accusations as “sensational” and argued that an armed group opposed to the M23 carried out the killings. Kigali’s persistent denial of any RDF involvement has prompted Congolese officials to accuse Rwanda of “state denialism.” HRW’s evidence counters these denials. Witnesses consistently recognised M23 fighters from their uniforms and accents. Several survivors said they saw uniformed Rwandan soldiers accompanying the attackers. The chronological alignment of events – with killings beginning days after the imposition of the work tax and occurring along major supply routes controlled by M23 – undermines claims that other militias were responsible. The pattern of injuries, the use of M23 checkpoints to block escape, and the disposal of bodies in the Rutshuru River all point to a coordinated operation rather than random violence. Regional & International Response Congo’s Position and Diplomatic Efforts The DRC government has condemned the massacre and says the atrocities undermine the sincerity of ongoing peace talks. In a statement referenced by Reuters, the Congolese foreign affairs ministry said the killings “cast a shadow over the sincerity and commitment of stakeholders” to the Washington and Doha agreements. Officials have vowed to present evidence before the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council and the U.N. Security Council, urging these bodies to demand accountability and to press Rwanda to withdraw its forces. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Rwanda Politics Kagame Sides With Journalist Against His Own Foreign Minister . Natural Disasters Guinea Landfill Landslide Kills 30 as Search Continues . Justice & Crime Niger Governor Orders Rescue of Worshippers Abducted in Borgu . Biography DJ Maphorisa Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise . Biography Who Is Patrick Vieira, Senegal’s New Head Coach? . UN and Human Rights Organisations U.N. High Commissioner Volker Türk’s condemnation is part of a broader push within the U.N. to address the crisis. Peacekeeping forces from the U.N. Mission in Congo (MONUSCO) have been criticised for failing to protect rural communities, but MONUSCO has said its troops were blocked from entering the area during the massacre. The International Criminal Court (ICC) – which has been investigating crimes in the DRC since 2004 – issued an urgent call for information in late 2024, specifically focusing on alleged Rome Statute crimes in North Kivu since 1 January 2022 . The Office of the Prosecutor said it is monitoring the escalation of violence around Goma and urged victims, journalists, and organisations to submit evidence. That call now seems prescient given the July killings. Calls for Sanctions and Prosecutions HRW urges the U.N. Security Council, European Union, and individual governments to expand existing sanctions against M23 commanders and Rwandan officials complicit in abuses. The group also calls for arrest warrants and prosecutions, reminding states that commanders may be liable for war crimes. The rights organisation specifically asked Rwanda to allow U.N. and independent forensic experts into M23‑controlled areas to exhume bodies and document evidence International reaction has been muted. While the United States has previously sanctioned Congolese and Rwandan individuals linked to illicit mining and violence, there were no immediate new sanctions announced after July’s massacre. European diplomats have expressed concern but continue to prioritise the Washington‑brokered peace process. Critics argue that sustained impunity for atrocities in eastern Congo encourages further violations. Peace Talks and Ceasefire Efforts The killings occurred just weeks after Rwanda and the DRC signed a U.S.‑brokered peace agreement in Washington, and the M23 agreed to a ceasefire in Doha. Despite these diplomatic moves, M23 walked away from negotiations days after the massacre, accusing Kinshasa of failing to implement the ceasefire. The conflict is now at risk of escalating, with regional mediators struggling to reconvene talks. Observers note that any peace process that ignores accountability for mass atrocities is unlikely to succeed. Conclusion: A Call for Justice and Protection The July 2025 massacre near Virunga National Park is a grim reminder of the human cost of unresolved conflicts in eastern Congo. The evidence compiled by HRW and corroborated by the U.N. shows a deliberate and coordinated campaign by M23 fighters, supported by Rwanda’s military, to terrorise and depopulate farming communities. The slaughter of hundreds of farmers, women, and children – executed with machetes and guns, their bodies dumped into rivers – demands accountability. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Rwanda Politics Kagame Sides With Journalist Against His Own Foreign Minister Kagame said Olivier Nduhungirehe, not journalist Scovia Umutesi, should have apologized. . Natural Disasters Guinea Landfill Landslide Kills 30 as Search Continues Rescuers are searching for survivors after a massive waste collapse buried homes in Conakry. . Justice & Crime Niger Governor Orders Rescue of Worshippers Abducted in Borgu Governor Bago orders intensified rescue efforts as officials verify how many worshippers were abducted. . Biography DJ Maphorisa Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise Meet the South African producer behind Scorpion Kings, “Khona,” “One Dance” and amapiano hits. . Tags Trending News Trending News Rwanda Rwanda DRC Politics DRC Politics DR.Congo DR.Congo Investigative Reports Investigative Reports Kagame Crimes Kagame Crimes DR Congo News DR Congo News M23 Rebels M23 Rebels

DRC’s census drive gains momentum after the World Bank and AfDB announced major support for the long-delayed exercise. The Democratic Republic of Congo has secured major donor backing for its long-delayed population and housing census, after the World Bank announced planned support of $100 million and the African Development Bank pledged a further $80 million for the operation and related institutional capacity-building. The commitments were presented during a donor roundtable in Kinshasa focused on financing the country’s second General Population and Housing Census, known as RGPH-2. According to the World Bank commitment outlined at the roundtable, $75 million of the proposed package would go directly to census operations, while the remaining funding would support the wider statistical system and help leave a longer-term institutional legacy. The bank said the financing still depends on board approval and the fulfilment of required government conditions. The African Development Bank said its own support would be structured in two parts, with $50 million earmarked for census operations and $30 million intended to strengthen national institutions involved in statistics, planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation. The bank’s broader support for census and social data systems in the DRC is also reflected in its existing project framework on population census and social databases . For Congolese authorities and development partners, the census is being presented as more than a statistical exercise. It is intended to provide reliable demographic and housing data that can improve public policy, budget planning and service delivery in a country that has not carried out a full census since 1984. UNFPA, which has supported census preparation in the DRC, has previously described the exercise as essential for effective long-term development planning and stronger data systems, a position it reiterated in its support for the government’s census preparations . The overall cost of the census operation has been put at $192 million, leaving the government and its partners still looking to close the remaining financing gap. Officials have proposed a basket fund to pool donor resources into a single mechanism dedicated to RGPH-2 activities. The renewed push comes with less than five years left to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, at a time when Congolese officials argue that the absence of updated population data has limited development planning and weakened the precision of policy decisions. A successful census would give the country a more reliable basis for measuring needs, targeting investment and tracking inequality across provinces and communities. Continue Reading Full Article CIVIL SOCIETY DRC secures major backing for long-delayed national census By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Mar 25, 2026 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo has secured major donor backing for its long-delayed population and housing census, after the World Bank announced planned support of $100 million and the African Development Bank pledged a further $80 million for the operation and related institutional capacity-building. The commitments were presented during a donor roundtable in Kinshasa focused on financing the country’s second General Population and Housing Census, known as RGPH-2. ADVERTISEMENT According to the World Bank commitment outlined at the roundtable, $75 million of the proposed package would go directly to census operations, while the remaining funding would support the wider statistical system and help leave a longer-term institutional legacy. The bank said the financing still depends on board approval and the fulfilment of required government conditions. The African Development Bank said its own support would be structured in two parts, with $50 million earmarked for census operations and $30 million intended to strengthen national institutions involved in statistics, planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation. The bank’s broader support for census and social data systems in the DRC is also reflected in its existing project framework on population census and social databases . ADVERTISEMENT For Congolese authorities and development partners, the census is being presented as more than a statistical exercise. It is intended to provide reliable demographic and housing data that can improve public policy, budget planning and service delivery in a country that has not carried out a full census since 1984. UNFPA, which has supported census preparation in the DRC, has previously described the exercise as essential for effective long-term development planning and stronger data systems, a position it reiterated in its support for the government’s census preparations . The overall cost of the census operation has been put at $192 million, leaving the government and its partners still looking to close the remaining financing gap. Officials have proposed a basket fund to pool donor resources into a single mechanism dedicated to RGPH-2 activities. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas . Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects . The renewed push comes with less than five years left to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, at a time when Congolese officials argue that the absence of updated population data has limited development planning and weakened the precision of policy decisions. A successful census would give the country a more reliable basis for measuring needs, targeting investment and tracking inequality across provinces and communities. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" Tshisekedi says armed groups cannot turn military conquest into political legitimacy, . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% Rwanda faces surging prices at home as US sanctions and tighter external financing add pressure abroad. . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform The three-month process will reach all 26 provinces and seek consensus on peace, cohesion and . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas Kinshasa says students will not restart their studies as temporary measures protect academic records, . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo Wazalendo DRC Wazalendo DRC DR Congo Investment DR Congo Investment DR Congo Rising DR Congo Rising

A women-led festival in Goma is using music, dance and solidarity to promote peace in rebel-held eastern Congo. In rebel-held Goma, a women-led music festival has once again turned culture into a public call for peace, unity and resilience, as performers and residents gathered despite the insecurity hanging over eastern Democratic Republic of Congo . At the center of the event was “Musika na Kipaji,” a three-day festival that organizers say is meant to showcase women’s talent while pushing back against gender-based violence in a city marked by conflict as cited by AP News . The festival, now in its seventh year, drew nearly 3,000 people, according to organizers. Congolese rapper Clem Cléopâtre was among the performers using the stage to speak about peace, social cohesion and solidarity, themes that resonated in Goma, where daily life has been reshaped by war and political instability. The backdrop remains severe. Eastern DRC is facing one of the world’s largest displacement crises, with millions uprooted by years of fighting and a fresh deterioration since early 2025, according to UNHCR . In that setting, events like this festival have taken on added weight as rare civic spaces where people can gather across divisions and reclaim a sense of normal life. Organizers say that is especially important for women, who continue to face heightened risks as conflict fuels abuse and weakens support systems. Human Rights Watch said in January that conflict-related sexual violence in eastern Congo has escalated even as assistance for survivors has dropped, underscoring why women-led platforms in the region are carrying both cultural and social significance . For festivalgoers, the value of the gathering goes beyond entertainment. In a city where tension can return quickly, the event offered a visible reminder that culture still has the power to hold communities together, even under armed control. Continue Reading Full Article DRC PEACE EFFORT WHY Goma’s women-led music festival endures under rebels By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Apr 2, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: In rebel-held Goma, a women-led music festival has once again turned culture into a public call for peace, unity and resilience, as performers and residents gathered despite the insecurity hanging over eastern Democratic Republic of Congo . At the center of the event was “Musika na Kipaji,” a three-day festival that organizers say is meant to showcase women’s talent while pushing back against gender-based violence in a city marked by conflict as cited by AP News . ADVERTISEMENT The festival, now in its seventh year, drew nearly 3,000 people, according to organizers. Congolese rapper Clem Cléopâtre was among the performers using the stage to speak about peace, social cohesion and solidarity, themes that resonated in Goma, where daily life has been reshaped by war and political instability. The backdrop remains severe. Eastern DRC is facing one of the world’s largest displacement crises, with millions uprooted by years of fighting and a fresh deterioration since early 2025, according to UNHCR . In that setting, events like this festival have taken on added weight as rare civic spaces where people can gather across divisions and reclaim a sense of normal life. ADVERTISEMENT Organizers say that is especially important for women, who continue to face heightened risks as conflict fuels abuse and weakens support systems. Human Rights Watch said in January that conflict-related sexual violence in eastern Congo has escalated even as assistance for survivors has dropped, underscoring why women-led platforms in the region are carrying both cultural and social significance . ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . International Relations Ndayishimiye Backs Leopards After Historic Draw With Portugal . For festivalgoers, the value of the gathering goes beyond entertainment. In a city where tension can return quickly, the event offered a visible reminder that culture still has the power to hold communities together, even under armed control. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress What otjize, jewelry, hairstyles, and clothing represent in Himba culture . Tags Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo African Union African Union M23 Rebels M23 Rebels M23 Rebels News M23 Rebels News

A Guardian report finds African migrants lured by fake jobs were coerced into Russia’s war, with many sent to the frontline without training. Dozens of African Migrants Forced Into Russia’s War After Fake Job Offers — Report Kampala/Nairobi — Dozens of African nationals, including more than 200 Kenyans, have been deceived into joining Russia’s military after responding to fake overseas job advertisements, according to a detailed investigation by The Guardian. Many expected ordinary employment but were instead transported to military facilities and deployed to the frontline in Ukraine with little or no training. According to the report , young jobseekers from Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, and several other African countries have been recruited through informal networks and local employment agencies advertising plumbing, security, and manual labor positions in Russia. Upon arrival, many were allegedly coerced into military service, their travel documents confiscated, and their signatures obtained on paperwork written in Russian. One Kenyan survivor, identified under a pseudonym for safety reasons, said he realized too late that he had been enrolled in the Russian armed forces. After being taken from the airport in St Petersburg to a private residence, he and other recruits were issued identical clothing and later taken to a police station for fingerprinting. The following day, he said they were registered at a military facility and handed Russian military identification cards. Sent to the Front Without Training The investigation found that the group was transported to Belgorod, near the Ukrainian border, and then issued weapons and combat uniforms. Several recruits reported being ordered directly into combat roles without instruction. Some described being tasked with targeting Ukrainian drones, spending long hours concealed in forested areas where they were vulnerable to attack. Others recounted surviving drone strikes or witnessing fellow conscripts killed in action. Ukraine’s foreign ministry has previously stated that more than 1,400 fighters from 36 African nations are believed to be serving with Russian units in Ukraine, with many now held as prisoners of war. Growing Concerns Over Human Trafficking and Racist Abuse Kenyan officials have acknowledged that hundreds of their citizens may have been trafficked through fraudulent recruitment schemes. Social media videos circulating in recent months appear to show African fighters being subjected to racist language and life-threatening coercion by Russian personnel. Although these videos cannot be independently verified, they align with earlier reports of Russian commanders sending soldiers on extremely high-risk missions. Continue Reading Full Article CONFLICT ZONES Africans Forced Into Russia’s War After Fake Job Offers By Serge Kabongo Sports & Entertainment Serge Kabongo Home Comment Jan 27, 2026 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Dozens of African Migrants Forced Into Russia’s War After Fake Job Offers — Report Kampala/Nairobi — Dozens of African nationals, including more than 200 Kenyans, have been deceived into joining Russia’s military after responding to fake overseas job advertisements, according to a detailed investigation by The Guardian. Many expected ordinary employment but were instead transported to military facilities and deployed to the frontline in Ukraine with little or no training. According to the report , young jobseekers from Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, and several other African countries have been recruited through informal networks and local employment agencies advertising plumbing, security, and manual labor positions in Russia. Upon arrival, many were allegedly coerced into military service, their travel documents confiscated, and their signatures obtained on paperwork written in Russian. One Kenyan survivor, identified under a pseudonym for safety reasons, said he realized too late that he had been enrolled in the Russian armed forces. After being taken from the airport in St Petersburg to a private residence, he and other recruits were issued identical clothing and later taken to a police station for fingerprinting. The following day, he said they were registered at a military facility and handed Russian military identification cards. ADVERTISEMENT Sent to the Front Without Training The investigation found that the group was transported to Belgorod, near the Ukrainian border, and then issued weapons and combat uniforms. Several recruits reported being ordered directly into combat roles without instruction. Some described being tasked with targeting Ukrainian drones, spending long hours concealed in forested areas where they were vulnerable to attack. Others recounted surviving drone strikes or witnessing fellow conscripts killed in action. Ukraine’s foreign ministry has previously stated that more than 1,400 fighters from 36 African nations are believed to be serving with Russian units in Ukraine, with many now held as prisoners of war. ADVERTISEMENT Growing Concerns Over Human Trafficking and Racist Abuse Kenyan officials have acknowledged that hundreds of their citizens may have been trafficked through fraudulent recruitment schemes. Social media videos circulating in recent months appear to show African fighters being subjected to racist language and life-threatening coercion by Russian personnel. Although these videos cannot be independently verified, they align with earlier reports of Russian commanders sending soldiers on extremely high-risk missions. Security analysts in East Africa say the trafficking networks exploit high unemployment rates and weak oversight of local recruitment agencies. Many recruits reportedly pay fees to secure what they believe are legitimate work opportunities abroad. A Mother Searching for Answers Families in Kenya continue to struggle for information about missing sons. One mother interviewed said her 22-year-old son traveled to Russia last August after being promised a security job. He later sent home images of military documents and a voice message indicating he might not survive his next deployment. He has not been heard from since. 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 Rwanda Politics Kagame Sides With Journalist Against His Own Foreign Minister . Natural Disasters Guinea Landfill Landslide Kills 30 as Search Continues . Justice & Crime Niger Governor Orders Rescue of Worshippers Abducted in Borgu . Biography DJ Maphorisa Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise . Biography Who Is Patrick Vieira, Senegal’s New Head Coach? . Kenya’s foreign affairs ministry has confirmed that several repatriations have occurred, but it remains unclear how many citizens remain in active combat or have been detained. A Survivor’s Escape The Kenyan man who spoke anonymously to The Guardian described escaping after being injured in a drone blast while traveling with Russian soldiers. After receiving treatment in multiple hospitals, he fled to the Kenyan embassy in Moscow, more than 600 kilometers from his assigned base, and secured emergency travel documents. He is now home and recovering from surgery. He said the trauma of combat continues to affect him: “When you see someone dying beside you, that stays with you.” ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Rwanda Politics Kagame Sides With Journalist Against His Own Foreign Minister Kagame said Olivier Nduhungirehe, not journalist Scovia Umutesi, should have apologized. . Natural Disasters Guinea Landfill Landslide Kills 30 as Search Continues Rescuers are searching for survivors after a massive waste collapse buried homes in Conakry. . Justice & Crime Niger Governor Orders Rescue of Worshippers Abducted in Borgu Governor Bago orders intensified rescue efforts as officials verify how many worshippers were abducted. . Biography DJ Maphorisa Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise Meet the South African producer behind Scorpion Kings, “Khona,” “One Dance” and amapiano hits. . Tags Trending News Trending News

Kim Kardashian shared candid dating advice in Paris as reports link her to Formula One star Lewis Hamilton, according to media reports. Kim Kardashian has shared her views on modern dating as speculation continues over a possible relationship with Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton, according to a source article Kim Kardashian shares dating ad…. The reality television personality was recently seen in Paris, where she attended the launch of the Nike x SKIMS pop-up . During the event, Kardashian spoke with British Vogue , responding to reader questions on topics including dating culture and personal boundaries. Addressing social media dynamics in relationships, Kardashian suggested a relaxed approach, saying people should not overthink online interactions such as story views. Her comments come amid reports about her personal life. British tabloid The Sun has claimed that Kardashian and Hamilton are dating, alleging that the SKIMS founder recently travelled to the United Kingdom to spend time with the racing driver. According to the report, Kardashian flew privately to England and stayed at Estelle Manor in the Cotswolds, where the pair were said to have enjoyed private spa access and a dinner at the venue’s country club. Separately, HELLO! magazine cited an unnamed source who claimed the pair had been seen together previously, including at a New Year’s Eve gathering hosted by Kate Hudson in Aspen, suggesting their connection may have developed over several months. Neither Kardashian nor Hamilton has publicly commented on the reports. Source : Geo News Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Kim Kardashian offers dating advice amid Lewis Hamilton rumours By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 4, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kim Kardashian has shared her views on modern dating as speculation continues over a possible relationship with Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton, according to a source article Kim Kardashian shares dating ad…. The reality television personality was recently seen in Paris, where she attended the launch of the Nike x SKIMS pop-up . During the event, Kardashian spoke with British Vogue , responding to reader questions on topics including dating culture and personal boundaries. Addressing social media dynamics in relationships, Kardashian suggested a relaxed approach, saying people should not overthink online interactions such as story views. ADVERTISEMENT Her comments come amid reports about her personal life. British tabloid The Sun has claimed that Kardashian and Hamilton are dating, alleging that the SKIMS founder recently travelled to the United Kingdom to spend time with the racing driver. According to the report, Kardashian flew privately to England and stayed at Estelle Manor in the Cotswolds, where the pair were said to have enjoyed private spa access and a dinner at the venue’s country club. ADVERTISEMENT Separately, HELLO! magazine cited an unnamed source who claimed the pair had been seen together previously, including at a New Year’s Eve gathering hosted by Kate Hudson in Aspen, suggesting their connection may have developed over several months. Neither Kardashian nor Hamilton has publicly commented on the reports. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . Source : Geo News ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

Stand in one park and see three countries! Explore Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park, Tanzania’s wild, scenic borderland with Uganda and Rwanda. Did you know there’s a place in Africa where you can see Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania at the same time, just by standing in one spot? Welcome to Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park! A hidden gem in the northwestern corner of Tanzania, this park offers something truly rare: wildlife, culture, and geography all in one place. 🌍 What Makes This Park Special? Ibanda-Kyerwa is the only national park in Tanzania that touches two other countries, Uganda and Rwanda. Imagine standing on a scenic point and watching daily life unfold in three different countries at once. Now that’s a view you won’t forget. 🕰️ A Quick Look at the History Originally a game reserve in 1971, Ibanda-Kyerwa became a national park in July 2019, covering 294 square kilometers of unspoiled natural beauty. ✈️ How to Get There By Air: Fly into Bukoba or Chato Airports. From there, small aircraft can take you to the Karagwe District or even land inside the park at a nearby airstrip. By Road: From Bukoba via Omurushaka (221 km) From Biharamulo through Benako (327 km) Continue Reading Full Article Visit Ibanda-Kyerwa: Tanzania’s Hidden Border Park By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jun 26, 2025 May 15, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Did you know there’s a place in Africa where you can see Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania at the same time, just by standing in one spot? Welcome to Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park! A hidden gem in the northwestern corner of Tanzania, this park offers something truly rare: wildlife, culture, and geography all in one place. 🌍 What Makes This Park Special? Ibanda-Kyerwa is the only national park in Tanzania that touches two other countries, Uganda and Rwanda. Imagine standing on a scenic point and watching daily life unfold in three different countries at once. Now that’s a view you won’t forget. 🕰️ A Quick Look at the History Originally a game reserve in 1971, Ibanda-Kyerwa became a national park in July 2019, covering 294 square kilometers of unspoiled natural beauty. ✈️ How to Get There By Air: Fly into Bukoba or Chato Airports. From there, small aircraft can take you to the Karagwe District or even land inside the park at a nearby airstrip. By Road: From Bukoba via Omurushaka (221 km) From Biharamulo through Benako (327 km) Or from Uganda via the Kikagati–Murongo border post, only 4 km from the Kifurusa Gate. ADVERTISEMENT 🌦️ When Is the Best Time to Visit? Best months: July to September, and December to February Rainy seasons: Short rains (October–November) and long rains (March–May). Choose the dry months for the best wildlife viewing and comfortable walking safaris! 🐘 What Will You See? Let’s Explore the Attractions 🦁 Wildlife Galore The park is home to: Buffaloes, Leopards, Hippopotamus, Roan Antelope Topi, Eland, Waterbuck, ImpalaKeep your camera ready! 🌊 Kagera River This famous river forms the natural border between Tanzania and Rwanda, and even reaches Uganda. It also divides two national parks: Ibanda-Kyerwa (Tanzania) and Akagera (Rwanda). 🌿 Beautiful Landscapes From savannah woodlands to valleys and hills, the park’s terrain is diverse and stunning. Nature photographers and explorers will love this. 🐦 Birdwatching Heaven Over 200 bird species have been recorded. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the colorful symphony of nature! ADVERTISEMENT 🚙 Fun Things to Do in the Park 🎯 Game Drive Explore the park’s vast grasslands, Acacia trees, and river zones. Spot herds of animals and enjoy the thrill of wild Africa from your vehicle. 🚶 Walking Safari Want to get up close? Go on a guided walking tour with an armed ranger. Feel the ground beneath your feet and experience the bush from a new angle. ⛺ Where to Stay? Right now, you can enjoy public campsites, perfect for those who love the outdoors. More facilities are developing, so it’s a great time to visit before the crowds arrive. 💚 Why Your Visit Matters 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 . By visiting, you're not just enjoying nature, you’re also supporting local communities. Learn about Tanzanian culture, meet friendly locals, and contribute to their livelihoods. 💸 Park Fees (Summary) Category Tanzanian (Tshs) Expat/Resident (USD) Foreigner (USD) Entry – Adult 5,000 30 15 Entry – Age 5-15 2,000 10 5 Entry – Under 5 Free Free Free Camping – Adult (Public) 5,000 30 30 Walking Safari (1-4 hrs) 5,000 20 20 Walking Safari (4+ hrs) 10,000 25 25 Guide per group 5,000 20 20 Filming – – 250 per day 🔔 Full tariff list available at the park office or brochure. Proof of ID required. Fees may exclude VAT. 📜 Park Rules (A Must-Know!) Please help protect the park: ✅ Do Use marked roads and trails Keep the park clean Respect animals and fellow visitors Get an entry permit valid for 24 hours ❌ Don’t Feed animals or make a loud noise Bring pets or weapons Leave the road during game drives Pick plants or disturb the ecosystem ⏰ Park Hours: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm🚗 Speed Limit: Max 50 kph (25 kph for game viewing) 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

Introduction to the Conflict The United States has recently intensified its calls for Rwanda to hold its military forces accountable following an attack on a camp for internally displaced persons near Goma, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Both the DRC and the U.S. have accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which is said to have participated in the assault. Direct Accusations from the U.S. State Department On Friday, the U.S. State Department made a direct accusation against Rwandan forces for collaborating with M23 rebels in the deadly attack, which claimed the lives of over a dozen people. The U.S. insists that Rwanda must thoroughly investigate the incident and penalize those responsible. Rwanda's Firm Denial In response to these allegations, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo dismissed the claims as "ridiculous," asserting that Rwanda's army operates professionally and would never target a displacement camp. Rwanda contends that the accusations are unfounded and has called for a credible external investigation to determine the facts of the incident. Evidence of Rwandan Support for M23 Despite Rwanda's denials, the U.S. maintains that there is sufficient evidence indicating Rwandan support for M23 rebels. These rebels, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis, have been involved in conflicts in the region since their resurgence in 2021. International Responses and Diplomatic Efforts The European Union, the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and various international leaders have condemned the attack, calling for Rwanda to cease its alleged backing of M23. Recent diplomatic efforts include U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Kigali, where he encouraged Rwanda to engage diplomatically to resolve the ongoing conflict. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 8, 2024 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: U.S. and DRC's Partners Call On Rwanda to Punish Forces Over Attack Introduction to the Conflict The United States has recently intensified its calls for Rwanda to hold its military forces accountable following an attack on a camp for internally displaced persons near Goma, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Both the DRC and the U.S. have accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which is said to have participated in the assault. Direct Accusations from the U.S. State Department On Friday, the U.S. State Department made a direct accusation against Rwandan forces for collaborating with M23 rebels in the deadly attack, which claimed the lives of over a dozen people. The U.S. insists that Rwanda must thoroughly investigate the incident and penalize those responsible. ADVERTISEMENT Rwanda's Firm Denial In response to these allegations, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo dismissed the claims as "ridiculous," asserting that Rwanda's army operates professionally and would never target a displacement camp. Rwanda contends that the accusations are unfounded and has called for a credible external investigation to determine the facts of the incident. Evidence of Rwandan Support for M23 ADVERTISEMENT Despite Rwanda's denials, the U.S. maintains that there is sufficient evidence indicating Rwandan support for M23 rebels. These rebels, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis, have been involved in conflicts in the region since their resurgence in 2021. International Responses and Diplomatic Efforts The European Union, the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and various international leaders have condemned the attack, calling for Rwanda to cease its alleged backing of M23. Recent diplomatic efforts include U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Kigali, where he encouraged Rwanda to engage diplomatically to resolve the ongoing conflict. 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 Ongoing Regional Tensions The situation remains tense as regional and international actors strive for a resolution. The Congolese government continues to urge Rwanda to adhere to international calls for a ceasefire and to withdraw its troops from the DRC, emphasizing that the recent attacks violate international humanitarian law. The DRC and its international partners remain firm in their stance against Rwanda's alleged involvement in the region's unrest. With continued diplomatic negotiations and international pressure, there is hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, which has long plagued the eastern regions of the DRC. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

Liquorose reveals how her stage name was inspired by liquor and her real name, while sharing why she misses home. Reality TV star and actress Roseline Afije, widely known as Liquorose, has revealed the inspiration behind her popular stage name. Speaking on a podcast with VJ Adams, she explained that the name was formed from her fondness for liquor combined with her birth name, Roseline. Liquorose said she adopted the name on December 31, 2012, noting that it has since become a significant part of her public identity. “I picked Liquorose on December 31st, 2012. I like liquor, and my name is Rosaline as well. I am a very shy person too. My mum says in her language, ‘Alcohol is never shy,’” she said. The entertainer also spoke about her personal life, admitting that her demanding schedule keeps her away from home more often than she would like. She stated that although her career requires frequent travel, she misses the comfort and closeness of her family. “I don’t go home often; it’s bad. I miss my home, I miss my bed. We are very close in my family, and we know how to make each other laugh. We have stories we tell each other. I miss that,” she said. Liquorose added that her last visit to her neighborhood was the previous year during her annual charity outreach, a tradition she holds every December. Continue Reading Full Article REALITY TV STARS How Liquorose Created Her Stage Name By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 1, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Reality TV star and actress Roseline Afije, widely known as Liquorose, has revealed the inspiration behind her popular stage name. Speaking on a podcast with VJ Adams, she explained that the name was formed from her fondness for liquor combined with her birth name, Roseline. Liquorose said she adopted the name on December 31, 2012, noting that it has since become a significant part of her public identity. “I picked Liquorose on December 31st, 2012. I like liquor, and my name is Rosaline as well. I am a very shy person too. My mum says in her language, ‘Alcohol is never shy,’” she said. ADVERTISEMENT The entertainer also spoke about her personal life, admitting that her demanding schedule keeps her away from home more often than she would like. She stated that although her career requires frequent travel, she misses the comfort and closeness of her family. “I don’t go home often; it’s bad. I miss my home, I miss my bed. We are very close in my family, and we know how to make each other laugh. We have stories we tell each other. I miss that,” she said. ADVERTISEMENT Liquorose added that her last visit to her neighborhood was the previous year during her annual charity outreach, a tradition she holds every December. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . Entertainment BBNaija 11: Chimsom Chuka Wins Head of House for Second Time . Nigerian Entertainment Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’ Buried in Ilaro as Nollywood Stars Pay Tribute . Entertainment Asake Returns to Toronto With Uncle Waffles on World Tour . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post Some fans questioned her birthday posts on Ogogo’s burial day, while others defended the actress. . Entertainment BBNaija 11: Chimsom Chuka Wins Head of House for Second Time Chimsom secured Week Five immunity after beating Gerard to claim his second Head of House title. . Nigerian Entertainment Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’ Buried in Ilaro as Nollywood Stars Pay Tribute Family, Nollywood stars and fans gathered in Ilaro for the veteran Yoruba actor’s final farewell. . Tags Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Musics Musics

Justice Department alleges Test Flying Academy exported US technology and NATO expertise to China; the South African firm strongly denies any wrongdoing. The United States has accused a prominent South African flight training company of illegally exporting U.S.‑origin technology and recruiting former NATO pilots to help train China’s military. On 15 January 2026 the U.S. Department of Justice filed a civil forfeiture complaint seeking permanent custody of two mission crew trainers (mobile classrooms) that were built by Test Flying Academy of South Africa (TFASA) and seized while being shipped via Singapore to China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). U.S. officials say the equipment was designed to teach Chinese aircrews how to operate airborne warning and control system aircraft and to conduct anti‑submarine warfare, using restricted U.S. software and technology. TFASA, which operates flight‑test facilities in South Africa and China, denies the accusations, claiming the units were basic training classrooms with no sensitive technology as first reported by News 24 Verified facts and allegations U.S. allegations and seizure: • The Justice Department’s complaint says that in November 2024 U.S. authorities intercepted two Mission Crew Trainers (MCTs) housed in shipping containers as they transited Singapore on a China‑bound COSCO freighter. The units were later seized under U.S. export control laws. • According to court documents, the MCTs were intended to train PLA personnel in operating airborne warning and control system aircraft and anti‑submarine warfare aircraft. The system’s layout reportedly mimicked the P‑8 Poseidon , the U.S. Navy’s maritime patrol aircraft, and used software based on a U.S. flight simulator that TFASA engineers enhanced with technical data from Western anti‑submarine platforms. • The project, referred to by TFASA staff as “Project Elgar” , aimed to give Chinese aviators the ability to locate and track U.S. submarines operating in the Pacific. Former NATO pilots were allegedly recruited to ensure the training matched Western procedures. • U.S. officials say TFASA “masquerades as a civilian flight‑training academy” while transferring NATO aviation expertise and restricted technology to the PLA. Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg described the company as a “pipeline for transferring NATO aviation expertise, operational knowledge and restricted technology” to China. FBI Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky warned that the alleged illegal export of U.S. military simulator technology and NATO expertise “jeopardizes U.S. national security” and risks American service members’ lives. • The Justice Department said the seizure demonstrates the threat posed by China and its enablers in obtaining U.S. military technology, and noted that TFASA had previously been placed on the U.S. Commerce Department’s Entity List in 2023 for training Chinese military pilots using Western sources. TFASA’s response: Continue Reading Full Article POLITICAL SCANDALS U.S. accuses SA flight academy of aiding China with NATO expertise By Sebastiane Ebatamehi Pan-African Analyst & Content Strategist Sebastiane Ebatamehi Home Comment Jan 18, 2026 May 15, 2026 7 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The United States has accused a prominent South African flight training company of illegally exporting U.S.‑origin technology and recruiting former NATO pilots to help train China’s military. On 15 January 2026 the U.S. Department of Justice filed a civil forfeiture complaint seeking permanent custody of two mission crew trainers (mobile classrooms) that were built by Test Flying Academy of South Africa (TFASA) and seized while being shipped via Singapore to China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). U.S. officials say the equipment was designed to teach Chinese aircrews how to operate airborne warning and control system aircraft and to conduct anti‑submarine warfare, using restricted U.S. software and technology. TFASA, which operates flight‑test facilities in South Africa and China, denies the accusations, claiming the units were basic training classrooms with no sensitive technology as first reported by News 24 Verified facts and allegations U.S. allegations and seizure: • The Justice Department’s complaint says that in November 2024 U.S. authorities intercepted two Mission Crew Trainers (MCTs) housed in shipping containers as they transited Singapore on a China‑bound COSCO freighter. The units were later seized under U.S. export control laws. • According to court documents, the MCTs were intended to train PLA personnel in operating airborne warning and control system aircraft and anti‑submarine warfare aircraft. The system’s layout reportedly mimicked the P‑8 Poseidon , the U.S. Navy’s maritime patrol aircraft, and used software based on a U.S. flight simulator that TFASA engineers enhanced with technical data from Western anti‑submarine platforms. • The project, referred to by TFASA staff as “Project Elgar” , aimed to give Chinese aviators the ability to locate and track U.S. submarines operating in the Pacific. Former NATO pilots were allegedly recruited to ensure the training matched Western procedures. • U.S. officials say TFASA “masquerades as a civilian flight‑training academy” while transferring NATO aviation expertise and restricted technology to the PLA. Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg described the company as a “pipeline for transferring NATO aviation expertise, operational knowledge and restricted technology” to China. FBI Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky warned that the alleged illegal export of U.S. military simulator technology and NATO expertise “jeopardizes U.S. national security” and risks American service members’ lives. • The Justice Department said the seizure demonstrates the threat posed by China and its enablers in obtaining U.S. military technology, and noted that TFASA had previously been placed on the U.S. Commerce Department’s Entity List in 2023 for training Chinese military pilots using Western sources. ADVERTISEMENT TFASA’s response: • TFASA issued a statement rejecting the U.S. allegations, saying they are factually incorrect and misleading. • The company insists the seized containers were basic mobile classrooms containing individual workstations with commercially available Windows computers and did not include tactical simulators, advanced systems or classified technology. It says the mission crew trainers were designed solely for crew resource management training within maritime patrol aviation and used only publicly available, commercially licensed inputs . • TFASA claims the shipment was vetted by appropriate authorities before export and contained no sensitive or restricted technologies. The company has published an independent investigation conducted in 2025, saying there is no evidence of illegal software or export violations . • South Africa’s government has not endorsed the U.S. charges. In comments reported by the Independent Online, Department of International Relations and Cooperation spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said Pretoria would engage diplomatically with Washington to ensure the facts are understood. Context and background Project and seizure history: TFASA was established in 2003 and offers flight‑test services, including training for Chinese pilots. The company was added to the U.S. Commerce Department’s trade‑restriction Entity List in June 2023 for providing training to Chinese military pilots using Western and NATO sources. U.S. officials say that the seized mission crew trainers were built using a U.S. simulator program and technical data for anti‑submarine aircraft and that ex‑NATO aviators were involved. ADVERTISEMENT The equipment was seized in Singapore while en route to the PLA, and U.S. authorities filed the forfeiture complaint in Washington, DC. The case forms part of a broader effort by U.S. agencies to curb transfers of sensitive technology to China. Geopolitical backdrop: The seizure and complaint come amid heightened tensions over China’s military ties in Africa. Early January 2026 saw South Africa host “Will for Peace 2026” —a China‑led naval exercise involving Chinese, Russian and Iranian warships. According to the South African National Defence Force, the drill focused on joint maritime safety operations and interoperability . The same exercise drew criticism from South Africa’s opposition parties for including nations under international sanctions. The U.S. allegations against TFASA therefore add to Western concerns about China’s growing military footprint in South Africa. Reactions • U.S. law enforcement officials hailed the seizure as a measure to protect national security and prevent adversaries from obtaining advanced American technology. • South Africa’s government has indicated it will seek clarity through diplomatic channels, while the broader African region monitors the case’s geopolitical ramifications. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . International Relations Ndayishimiye Backs Leopards After Historic Draw With Portugal . • TFASA is preparing to defend its position and has invited stakeholders to review its independent investigation report, maintaining that its exports were lawful . People also liked South Africa urges UN to censure US over Venezuela raid Analyst says China led naval drills reveal SA navy’s limited readiness China‑led naval exercise draws Russia and Iran to South African waters Why it matters The forfeiture action highlights growing competition over military technology and expertise as China seeks to modernise its armed forces. For the U.S., preventing the outflow of sensitive technology is seen as essential to maintaining its strategic advantage in anti‑submarine warfare and protecting American service members. The dispute also places South Africa, which strives for non‑aligned status, at the centre of a broader confrontation between Washington and Beijing. This case could test South Africa’s export controls and its diplomatic balancing act, especially as it deepens defence cooperation with BRICS partners. The 2023 inclusion of TFASA and its affiliates on the U.S. Commerce Department’s Entity List followed earlier warnings that former Western military pilots were being hired to train Chinese aircrews. Western governments, including the United Kingdom and Australia, have prosecuted former pilots under national security laws for similar training activities. These measures reflect broader efforts to curb the transfer of NATO‑level expertise to China. Sources: News 24 ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress What otjize, jewelry, hairstyles, and clothing represent in Himba culture . Tags Africa Africa South Africa South Africa news24 news24 South Africa News South Africa News US Foreign Policy Africa US Foreign Policy Africa

Burna Boy becomes the first African artist to pass 50 million monthly listeners on Spotify, boosted by Dai Dai with Shakira. Burna Boy has pushed African music into another historic streaming moment. According to the report , the Nigerian superstar has become the first African artist to cross 50 million monthly listeners on Spotify, setting a new benchmark for the continent’s music scene on the global platform. The milestone was reached on Monday, making Burna Boy the African artist with the highest monthly listener count ever recorded on Spotify. For an artist who has spent years carrying Afrobeats, Afro-fusion, and Nigerian pop into bigger rooms, this is another sign of how far his sound has travelled. A major part of the surge comes from “Dai Dai,” his collaboration with Colombian pop icon Shakira. The song has been sitting at the top of Spotify’s Global Top Songs chart for several days, gaining even more attention during the ongoing FIFA World Cup. The success of “Dai Dai” has also boosted Shakira’s own streaming numbers. She recently crossed 100 million monthly listeners on Spotify for the first time in her career, becoming the second Latino artist to reach that level after Bad Bunny. The song’s video has also made noise on YouTube, where “Dai Dai” reportedly became the first music video of 2026 to pass 300 million views. That kind of crossover power shows how a Nigerian artist and a global Latin pop star can turn one song into a worldwide event. For Burna Boy, the 50 million Spotify monthly listeners record is bigger than a number. It speaks to the growing power of African music, the international reach of Nigerian artists, and the way Afrobeats continues to shape global pop culture. Burna Boy has already built a career on breaking doors open. With this new Spotify record, he is not just celebrating another personal win — he is helping redraw the map for African artists on the world stage. ENTERTAINMENT Burna Boy Sets African Spotify Record With 50 Million Listeners By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jul 7, 2026 Jul 7, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Burna Boy has pushed African music into another historic streaming moment. According to the report , the Nigerian superstar has become the first African artist to cross 50 million monthly listeners on Spotify, setting a new benchmark for the continent’s music scene on the global platform. ADVERTISEMENT The milestone was reached on Monday, making Burna Boy the African artist with the highest monthly listener count ever recorded on Spotify. For an artist who has spent years carrying Afrobeats, Afro-fusion, and Nigerian pop into bigger rooms, this is another sign of how far his sound has travelled. A major part of the surge comes from “Dai Dai,” his collaboration with Colombian pop icon Shakira. The song has been sitting at the top of Spotify’s Global Top Songs chart for several days, gaining even more attention during the ongoing FIFA World Cup. ADVERTISEMENT The success of “Dai Dai” has also boosted Shakira’s own streaming numbers. She recently crossed 100 million monthly listeners on Spotify for the first time in her career, becoming the second Latino artist to reach that level after Bad Bunny. The song’s video has also made noise on YouTube, where “Dai Dai” reportedly became the first music video of 2026 to pass 300 million views. That kind of crossover power shows how a Nigerian artist and a global Latin pop star can turn one song into a worldwide event. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . For Burna Boy, the 50 million Spotify monthly listeners record is bigger than a number. It speaks to the growing power of African music, the international reach of Nigerian artists, and the way Afrobeats continues to shape global pop culture. Burna Boy has already built a career on breaking doors open. With this new Spotify record, he is not just celebrating another personal win — he is helping redraw the map for African artists on the world stage. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Guinea-Bissau’s military takes full control, suspends the constitution, removes the president, shuts borders, and imposes a curfew. “National Security and Constitutional Order Must Be Restored,” says the High Military Command BISSAU, November 26, 2025 — Guinea-Bissau’s military announced late Tuesday that it has taken full control of the state, suspended constitutional institutions, and imposed a nationwide curfew following what it described as the discovery of a major destabilization plot involving political figures and international drug networks. The declaration, read on national television by Denise Encanha, Head of the Military House and senior military official, introduced a new governing body called the High Military Command for the Restoration of National Security and Public Order. A Coup Framed as “National Emergency” In its statement , the High Command said it had “assumed the fullness of state powers” to prevent what it called an operational plan of national destabilization, allegedly involving: Certain national politicians, A “known drug baron” operating between Guinea-Bissau and abroad, And an alleged scheme to manipulate electoral results in the recent vote. The military claimed the State Intelligence Service had uncovered war-grade weapon stockpiles linked to the plot, prompting immediate intervention. “The Armed Forces have acted to defend peace, civil order, territorial integrity, and the independence of Guinea-Bissau,” the communiqué said. Continue Reading Full Article Guinea-Bissau Army Seizes Power, Suspends Constitution in ‘Emergency’ By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Nov 26, 2025 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: “National Security and Constitutional Order Must Be Restored,” says the High Military Command BISSAU, November 26, 2025 — Guinea-Bissau’s military announced late Tuesday that it has taken full control of the state, suspended constitutional institutions, and imposed a nationwide curfew following what it described as the discovery of a major destabilization plot involving political figures and international drug networks. The declaration, read on national television by Denise Encanha, Head of the Military House and senior military official, introduced a new governing body called the High Military Command for the Restoration of National Security and Public Order. A Coup Framed as “National Emergency” In its statement , the High Command said it had “assumed the fullness of state powers” to prevent what it called an operational plan of national destabilization, allegedly involving: ADVERTISEMENT Certain national politicians, A “known drug baron” operating between Guinea-Bissau and abroad, And an alleged scheme to manipulate electoral results in the recent vote. The military claimed the State Intelligence Service had uncovered war-grade weapon stockpiles linked to the plot, prompting immediate intervention. “The Armed Forces have acted to defend peace, civil order, territorial integrity, and the independence of Guinea-Bissau,” the communiqué said. Key Measures Announced The High Command outlined sweeping emergency measures to “restore constitutional order”: Immediate removal of the President of the Republic from office. Suspension of all national institutions until further notice. Closure of all media outlets and suspension of broadcasting activities. Suspension of the ongoing electoral process. Closure of all borders, land, sea, and air. Imposition of a nationwide curfew from 19:00 to 06:00 “until further notice.” ADVERTISEMENT The statement said these measures would remain in force “until the conditions for a full return to constitutional normality are re-established.” Appeal for Calm The High Command described its action as a “patriotic and necessary response” to a national emergency, calling on citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the armed forces. “We appeal for calm, collaboration, and understanding from all Guineans in the face of this grave situation, imposed by the need to safeguard national stability,” the statement concluded. Regional Context The development marks another political rupture in the fragile West African state, which has experienced multiple coups and attempted takeovers since its independence in 1974. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW Guinea-Bissau Coup: Brig. Gen. Denis N’Canha Announces State Takeover . Coup d’État Updates POPULAR TODAY Coup d’État Updates Guinea-Bissau Coup: Brig. Gen. Denis N’Canha Announces State Takeover . Guinea-Bissau Army Seizes Power, Suspends Constitution in ‘Emergency’ . President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, who came to power in 2020, had survived previous coup attempts, including one in February 2022 and another in December 2023. This new declaration by the High Command comes just days after tense post-election disputes and reports of gunfire near the presidential palace, signaling a new phase of political uncertainty in the country. What Comes Next The international community, including ECOWAS and the African Union, is expected to react within hours. Regional observers warn that the military’s control of communications and border closures could isolate Guinea-Bissau and destabilize the Gulf of Guinea corridor, already under pressure from trafficking and political volatility. For now, the High Military Command says it will govern “temporarily” until stability and constitutional order are restored, a pledge that echoes past transitions, but one that will test both national unity and regional diplomacy. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Coup d’État Updates Guinea-Bissau Coup: Brig. Gen. Denis N’Canha Announces State Takeover Brig. Gen. Denis N’Canha declares the military has seized full state power in Guinea-Bissau . Guinea-Bissau Army Seizes Power, Suspends Constitution in ‘Emergency’ Guinea-Bissau’s military takes full control, suspends the constitution, removes the president, . Tags Guinea-Bissau Guinea-Bissau