IShowSpeed made a surprise appearance as the AFCON final mascot in Rabat and gifted an iPhone 17 to a blind fan. American YouTuber and livestreamer IShowSpeed made an unexpected appearance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat, creating a widely shared moment during the championship match. The content creator, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr. , entered the stadium disguised as the tournament’s official mascot, Simba, while wearing a Morocco national team jersey. He livestreamed the experience as he interacted with fans and reacted to the match between Morocco and Senegal. The final ended in a 1–0 extra-time victory for Senegal after Morocco missed a stoppage-time Panenka penalty. IShowSpeed’s animated reactions during the game drew significant online attention, with reports indicating his livestream peaked at more than 400,000 concurrent viewers. After the final whistle, the streamer met a young Moroccan fan outside the stadium who shared his personal story. The boy is visually impaired following multiple medical procedures and lives with autoimmune complications. During their interaction, IShowSpeed revealed he had purchased a new iPhone 17 earlier with the intention of giving it to a deserving fan. After learning about the boy’s condition and his reliance on accessibility technology, he handed him the device, citing its features designed to assist visually impaired users. The exchange concluded with an emotional moment that resonated widely online, even as fans continued to reflect on Morocco’s narrow defeat on home soil. Source: TNX Africa Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT IShowSpeed Appears as AFCON Mascot, Gifts Blind Fan iPhone By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jan 19, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: American YouTuber and livestreamer IShowSpeed made an unexpected appearance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat, creating a widely shared moment during the championship match. The content creator, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr. , entered the stadium disguised as the tournament’s official mascot, Simba, while wearing a Morocco national team jersey. He livestreamed the experience as he interacted with fans and reacted to the match between Morocco and Senegal. ADVERTISEMENT The final ended in a 1–0 extra-time victory for Senegal after Morocco missed a stoppage-time Panenka penalty. IShowSpeed’s animated reactions during the game drew significant online attention, with reports indicating his livestream peaked at more than 400,000 concurrent viewers. After the final whistle, the streamer met a young Moroccan fan outside the stadium who shared his personal story. The boy is visually impaired following multiple medical procedures and lives with autoimmune complications. ADVERTISEMENT During their interaction, IShowSpeed revealed he had purchased a new iPhone 17 earlier with the intention of giving it to a deserving fan. After learning about the boy’s condition and his reliance on accessibility technology, he handed him the device, citing its features designed to assist visually impaired users. The exchange concluded with an emotional moment that resonated widely online, even as fans continued to reflect on Morocco’s narrow defeat on home soil. Trending Now Master P Faces Son Mercy Miller in College Basketball Clash . Entertainment Taylor Swift’s ‘End of an Era’ Docuseries Moves Fans to Tears . Entertainment Kim Kardashian Faces Setback as Mentor Discusses Bar Exam Effort . Entertainment U.S. Vows to Hold Rwanda, M23 Accountable for Congo War Crimes . Washington Peace Accord Popular Today 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 Source: TNX Africa ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Hollywood Updates Zooey Deschanel Talks New Christmas Film and Holiday Legacy Deschanel discusses her new Christmas movie Merv and her long-standing festive music career . Hollywood Updates Diddy’s Mother Refutes Claims Raised in New Netflix Documentary Janice Combs disputes allegations about family history in Sean Combs: The Reckoning . Hollywood Updates Millie Bobby Brown Meets Burna Boy Ahead of TV Appearance Actress greets Nigerian star backstage before co-hosting the ‘Tonight Show’ . Musics Kendrick Lamar’s Scrapped ‘The Recipe’ Video Revealed on Podcast Producers explain why Kendrick Lamar and Dr. Dre’s planned lead video never made the final rollout. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

Learn how Suri marriage works culturally, from donga stick-dueling and a girl’s choice to clan rules, bridewealth, and family talks. Among the Suri of southwest Ethiopia , marriage is not a simple story of a boy fighting another boy and “winning” a wife. That version is popular online because it sounds dramatic. The real cultural process is more human, more social, and more layered. A Suri boy becomes visible as a possible husband through age, courage, public performance, family reputation, and the support of his kin. Stick-dueling, often called donga, can play an important role because it gives young men a public stage. But marriage itself depends on something deeper: clan rules, the girl’s preference, long family negotiation, and bridewealth. The strongest available evidence comes from anthropologist Jon Abbink’s work on the Suri, including his Encyclopedia of World Cultures entry on the Suri, and from modern context in Ethiopia’s Surma Woreda Disaster Risk Profile . Together, they show that Suri marriage is not a private romance alone. It is a public alliance between families. Who Are the Suri? The Suri are an agro-pastoral people of southwest Ethiopia, historically associated with the Chai, Tirma, and Bale groups. Abbink describes them as “agro-pastoralists/cultivators,” a phrase that matters because cattle, farming, and kinship all shape marriage. The suri cattle keeping Cattle are not just animals in this setting. They are wealth, social standing, family security, and a major part of bridewealth. In modern Surma woreda, Ethiopia’s National Disaster Risk Management Commission records “livestock rearing” as a major livelihood category ( NDRMC, 2020, p. 95 pdf ). That helps explain why marriage cannot be separated from cattle, land, water, and family survival. Suri society is also shaped by clan identity. Abbink records that Suri people belong to a unit called keno, often translated as a clan or branch. Marriage is expected to happen outside this clan line. In Abbink’s words, Suri marriages are possible “across keno (clan) lines only.” That rule is one of the first answers to the question: how does a Suri boy get a wife? He does not simply choose anyone. The match must fit the social rules of kinship. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE How a Suri Boy Gets a Wife Culturally By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jul 5, 2026 Jul 5, 2026 12 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Among the Suri of southwest Ethiopia , marriage is not a simple story of a boy fighting another boy and “winning” a wife. That version is popular online because it sounds dramatic. The real cultural process is more human, more social, and more layered. A Suri boy becomes visible as a possible husband through age, courage, public performance, family reputation, and the support of his kin. Stick-dueling, often called donga, can play an important role because it gives young men a public stage. A Suri family gathers beside their cattle at dusk A young Suri man displays traditional scarification, a cultural expression of identity A Suri warrior competes in a traditional donga stick-fighting contest Suri community members wear intricate white clay body paint during a cultural gathering But marriage itself depends on something deeper: clan rules, the girl’s preference, long family negotiation, and bridewealth. The strongest available evidence comes from anthropologist Jon Abbink’s work on the Suri, including his Encyclopedia of World Cultures entry on the Suri, and from modern context in Ethiopia’s Surma Woreda Disaster Risk Profile . Together, they show that Suri marriage is not a private romance alone. It is a public alliance between families. Who Are the Suri? The Suri are an agro-pastoral people of southwest Ethiopia, historically associated with the Chai, Tirma, and Bale groups. Abbink describes them as “agro-pastoralists/cultivators,” a phrase that matters because cattle, farming, and kinship all shape marriage. The suri cattle keeping livestock in identity, livelihood, and social life in Ethiopia's Lower Omo Valley. Cattle are not just animals in this setting. They are wealth, social standing, family security, and a major part of bridewealth. In modern Surma woreda, Ethiopia’s National Disaster Risk Management Commission records “livestock rearing” as a major livelihood category ( NDRMC, 2020, p. 95 pdf ). That helps explain why marriage cannot be separated from cattle, land, water, and family survival. Suri society is also shaped by clan identity. Abbink records that Suri people belong to a unit called keno, often translated as a clan or branch. Marriage is expected to happen outside this clan line. In Abbink’s words, Suri marriages are possible “across keno (clan) lines only.” That rule is one of the first answers to the question: how does a Suri boy get a wife? He does not simply choose anyone. The match must fit the social rules of kinship. The Role of Donga Stick-Dueling The most famous part of Suri courtship is stick-dueling. These contests are often described as if they are marriage tournaments, where the winner receives a wife. That is too simple. According to Abbink’s account, marriages are usually arranged after the rainy-season dueling contests. ADVERTISEMENT suri kids practice Donga right from childhood Getting ready with arm gear Donga fight Suri warrior At this time, girls watch the contests and may notice a young man whose courage, strength, or appearance appeals to them. A boy’s performance can make him admired. It can make people talk about him. It can make a girl interested. But the fight itself does not complete the marriage. A Suri boy who performs well in dueling may become more attractive as a potential husband because public courage matters. Donga gives young men a way to show discipline, bravery, and readiness before the community. It is not only about violence. It is also about reputation. Anthropologist Debra Martin, writing more generally about violence and masculinity in small-scale societies, notes that public male performance can shape identity and status. In Suri life, donga should be understood in that wider cultural frame: a public test of young masculinity, not a legal wedding ceremony. The Girl’s Choice Matters One of the most important details in Abbink’s account is that the girl’s choice is not absent. He writes that after dueling contests, a girl who has watched and chosen a favored duelist may approach him indirectly through friends and relatives. The suri marriage ready girls Young Suri women display distinctive stretched earlobes, beadwork, and traditional adornments Abbink says one decisive factor is the “preference of the girl.” That short phrase changes the whole story. This does not mean Suri marriage is purely individual romantic choice in the modern urban sense. Families still matter. Bridewealth still matters. Clan rules still matter. But the girl is not described as a passive prize handed to whoever wins a fight. Instead, courtship begins through indirect communication. A girl may send messages through trusted people. Relatives and friends become go-betweens. Interest is tested carefully, because marriage is not only about two individuals. It brings two kin groups into a long relationship. Family Negotiation Comes Next Once interest is known, the two families begin testing whether a marriage alliance is possible. This is where the process becomes more serious. Abbink explains that the families consider the girl’s preference and the amount of “bride-wealth” to be paid by the groom’s family. This bridewealth may include cattle, small stock, bullets, and/or a rifle. The exact arrangement depends on negotiation. ADVERTISEMENT The negotiations can take months. This slow pace is important. Marriage is not treated as a quick personal decision. It is a social agreement that affects families, cattle, children, inheritance, and future obligations. Among the Suri, a husband’s family does not simply “buy” a woman. Bridewealth is better understood as part of alliance-making between kin groups. It recognizes the transfer of a woman into another domestic and kinship setting, but it also creates obligations between families. A Suri child stands among the family's cattle, highlighting the central role of livestock in daily life especially marriage ceremony / Credit: © Piper Mackay Photography That is why Abbink describes Suri marriage as a “multi-stranded alliance between two kin groups.” A boy needs more than personal bravery. He needs a family able to negotiate, contribute bridewealth, and form a lasting relationship with the bride’s family. Further Reading Jon Abbink, “ Suri”
Encyclopedia of World Cultures
Relevant section : Kinship, Marriage, and Family Bridewealth and Cattle Bridewealth is central to how a Suri boy becomes a husband. Cattle are especially important, though the evidence does not support one fixed number that applies everywhere. Many online claims say a Suri man must own a specific number of cattle, sometimes 60. What is well supported is that cattle and other valuables form a major part of the negotiation. This makes sense in a pastoral setting where livestock carries social value. The NDRMC profile shows that livestock remains part of the modern economy in Surma woreda, and it also records environmental pressures affecting herding life. In some communities, people migrate because they are “Searching for pasture and water” (NDRMC, 2020, p. 55). On another page, the same profile records decreased rainfall and increased temperature across kebeles (NDRMC, 2020, p. 84). These modern pressures matter because bridewealth depends on wealth that families can gather. Cattle are not symbolic only. They are living resources that need pasture, water, protection, and labor. 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 Ethiopia Rebases GDP: Economy Now Measured at $210.7 Billion . Biography Timnit Gebru Biography: AI Ethics, DAIR and Right Livelihood . Sports Trends Guye Adola and Tigst Assefa Win Berlin . Conflict Zones Tigray Forces Seize Airports as Fighting Spreads . International Relations Seven Ethiopian Armed Groups Form Anti-Government Alliance . ADVERTISEMENT The Wedding Ceremony When the families reach agreement, the wedding can take place. Abbink describes the ceremony as involving “beer, song and dance,” followed by the ritual entrance of the girl into the new hut and into the groom’s family. Suri Marriage Celebrations Suri Marriage Celebrations Suri Marriage Celebrations That ritual entrance is important. It marks a social transition. The bride is not only moving into a new home. She is entering a new family network. The domestic unit among the Suri is centered around a wife and her children. Abbink notes that a married woman has her own hut, garden, economic activities, and social network. A husband may have more than one wife, and he does not necessarily have a personal hut of his own. He moves between domestic units and carries responsibilities outside the home, including herding, guarding, farming, public discussion, and sometimes raiding. So when a Suri boy becomes a husband, he is not simply gaining a companion. He is entering a demanding adult role tied to cattle, kinship, public responsibility, and the future of children. What the Boy Must Have Culturally, a Suri boy needs several things before marriage becomes possible: He needs maturity. Participation in public male life, including stick-dueling, helps show that he is no longer a child. He needs social visibility. A girl and her relatives must know who he is, and his public behavior matters. He needs to fit clan rules. Marriage should happen outside the keno line. He needs the girl’s interest. Abbink’s account makes clear that her preference matters. He needs family backing. Bridewealth is not only an individual payment; it comes through family negotiation. He needs wealth or access to wealth, especially livestock and other valuables that may be included in bridewealth. This is why “winning a wife” is the wrong phrase. A Suri boy does not get a wife by a single act. He becomes marriageable through a chain of public, personal, and family steps. Common Misconceptions The first misconception is that donga automatically gives a boy a wife. The evidence does not support that. Donga can influence attraction and reputation, but marriage depends on negotiation and bridewealth. The second misconception is that the girl has no say. Abbink’s account directly names the “preference of the girl” as one of the decisive factors. The third misconception is that all Suri marriages require one fixed number of cattle. The fourth misconception is that Suri marriage is only about violence. That misses the larger picture. Marriage is about kinship, cattle, social maturity, family alliance, and the public reputation of both sides. Conclusion A Suri boy gets a wife culturally through more than strength. Donga may help him become noticed, but it does not replace the marriage process. The girl’s preference matters. Clan rules matter. Families must negotiate. Bridewealth must be agreed. The wedding then brings the bride into a new hut and a new kin relationship. The most accurate way to describe the process is this: a Suri boy becomes a possible husband through public maturity and family backing, but he becomes a married man only when the girl’s choice, clan rules, bridewealth, and family agreement come together. Reference: Jon Abbink’s Suri entry in Encyclopedia of World Cultures Ethiopian NDRMC Surma Woreda Disaster Risk Profile pdf ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Economic Reports Ethiopia Rebases GDP: Economy Now Measured at $210.7 Billion The revision adds about 59% to measured output, but officials say the economy did not grow overnight . Biography Timnit Gebru Biography: AI Ethics, DAIR and Right Livelihood Meet Timnit Gebru, the Ethiopian-born AI researcher honored with the 2026 Right Livelihood Award. . Sports Trends Guye Adola and Tigst Assefa Win Berlin Ethiopia swept the elite titles as Assefa ran 2:11:04 and Adola claimed his second Berlin win. . Conflict Zones Tigray Forces Seize Airports as Fighting Spreads Ethiopian Airlines halted flights to Mekelle, Axum and Shire amid renewed battles. . Tags Ethiopia Ethiopia The Suri People The Suri People African Culture African Culture

Pretoria, South Africa - South Africa's women's national football team, Banyana Banyana, is gearing up for a crucial Olympic qualifying match against Nigeria, following a narrow 1-0 defeat in Abuja. Head coach Desiree Ellis expressed confidence in the team's potential for a strong comeback in the upcoming second leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Despite the setback in the first leg of the final qualifying round, Ellis remains optimistic about Banyana Banyana's chances of securing a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics. The absence of the away goal rule adds an extra layer of excitement to the contest, promising a fiercely competitive match. In preparation for Tuesday's game, the team has thoroughly reviewed their previous performance. "We are better than what we demonstrated in Nigeria," Ellis stated, confident of the team's abilities. The second half of the first leg showcased Banyana Banyana's true potential, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthra lling encounter .Ellis emphasized the importance of an early goal to gain momentum and take control of the game. "We have to prepare for every eventuality," she added, acknowledging Nigeria's one-goal lead but underscoring her team's readiness for the challenge. As South Africa's pride, Banyana Banyana is determined to overturn the deficit and claim victory on home soil, keeping their Olympic dreams alive. Fans and supporters are eagerly anticipating a spirited performance that showcases the team's resilience and skill . Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 9, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Pretoria, South Africa - South Africa's women's national football team, Banyana Banyana, is gearing up for a crucial Olympic qualifying match against Nigeria, following a narrow 1-0 defeat in Abuja. Head coach Desiree Ellis expressed confidence in the team's potential for a strong comeback in the upcoming second leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Despite the setback in the first leg of the final qualifying round, Ellis remains optimistic about Banyana Banyana's chances of securing a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics. The absence of the away goal rule adds an extra layer of excitement to the contest, promising a fiercely competitive match. ADVERTISEMENT In preparation for Tuesday's game, the team has thoroughly reviewed their previous performance. "We are better than what we demonstrated in Nigeria," Ellis stated, confident of the team's abilities. The second half of the first leg showcased Banyana Banyana's true potential, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthra lling encounter .Ellis emphasized the importance of an early goal to gain momentum and take control of the game. "We have to prepare for every eventuality," she added, acknowledging Nigeria's one-goal lead but underscoring her team's readiness for the challenge. As South Africa's pride, Banyana Banyana is determined to overturn the deficit and claim victory on home soil, keeping their Olympic dreams alive. Fans and supporters are eagerly anticipating a spirited performance that showcases the team's resilience and skill . ADVERTISEMENT 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

Victoria Beckham surprised fans by reuniting with the Spice Girls for a private singalong at her London home, 30 years after the group formed. Victoria Beckham has reunited with the Spice Girls for a rare performance, more than three decades after the iconic group was formed, according to a report by Geo News . The singer joined her former bandmates for a private gathering at her London home, where the group performed their hit song Viva Forever . The moment marked Beckham’s first time singing with the group in years, following her decision not to take part in the Spice Girls’ 2019 reunion tour. The gathering also included members of Beckham’s family. Her son, Cruz Beckham, played guitar during the performance, while his girlfriend, Jackie Apostel, was present. One Spice Girls member, Mel B, did not attend the event, though she has publicly expressed interest in a future reunion. Mel C has also stated that discussions about reuniting continue, with an emphasis on doing it “the right way.” Beckham has previously explained that she stepped away from touring to focus on her fashion business and family, calling the decision a difficult but necessary one. While no official plans have been announced, the recent appearance has renewed speculation among fans about a possible reunion in the future. Even as an informal gathering, the performance has been widely welcomed by fans as a nostalgic moment for one of pop music’s most successful groups. Source: Geo News Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Victoria Beckham Reunites With Spice Girls After 30 Years By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 5, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Victoria Beckham has reunited with the Spice Girls for a rare performance, more than three decades after the iconic group was formed, according to a report by Geo News . The singer joined her former bandmates for a private gathering at her London home, where the group performed their hit song Viva Forever . The moment marked Beckham’s first time singing with the group in years, following her decision not to take part in the Spice Girls’ 2019 reunion tour. ADVERTISEMENT The gathering also included members of Beckham’s family. Her son, Cruz Beckham, played guitar during the performance, while his girlfriend, Jackie Apostel, was present. One Spice Girls member, Mel B, did not attend the event, though she has publicly expressed interest in a future reunion. Mel C has also stated that discussions about reuniting continue, with an emphasis on doing it “the right way.” ADVERTISEMENT Beckham has previously explained that she stepped away from touring to focus on her fashion business and family, calling the decision a difficult but necessary one. While no official plans have been announced, the recent appearance has renewed speculation among fans about a possible reunion in the future. Even as an informal gathering, the performance has been widely welcomed by fans as a nostalgic moment for one of pop music’s most successful groups. Trending Now One Direction Reunion Uncertain Despite Fan Hopes . Entertainment Ghetts Jailed 12 Years Over Fatal Hit-and-Run . Entertainment Sade Adu Earns Second Rock Hall Nomination . Entertainment Anthony Joshua Tattoos Names of Friends Lost in Crash . Entertainment 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 Source: Geo News ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Hollywood Updates Joe Alwyn Marks Career Moment Amid Taylor Swift Wedding Reports Actor attends royal event in London as reports emerge about Swift and Kelce wedding plans . Entertainment Dua Lipa Shares Cape Town Highlights After Radical Optimism Tour Singer posts Instagram photos from South Africa following the end of her global tour . Entertainment Meghan Markle May Join Prince Harry for UK Invictus Games Event Possible UK appearance tied to security decision as Harry awaits Home Office ruling . Entertainment Chris Rea, ‘Driving Home for Christmas’ Singer, Dies at 73 British musician passed away after a short illness, family confirms . Tags Entertainment Entertainment U.K U.K

DRC has activated emergency Ebola measures in Ituri and North Kivu as authorities battle rising cases amid conflict and insecurity in eastern Congo Executive summary The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is confronting its 17th Ebola outbreak since 1976. This epidemic, declared by the Ministry of Public Health on 15 May 2026, involves the Bundibugyo virus, a strain for which no approved vaccine or specific treatment exists. The outbreak began in Mongbwalu, a gold‑mining hub in Ituri province, where the movement of mine workers fuelled spread before cases were detected. By mid‑May, authorities reported hundreds of suspected cases and more than one hundred deaths across Ituri and neighbouring North Kivu; by 19 May the numbers had risen to over 543 suspected cases and 131 deaths. Key facts The government activated its national emergency response on 15 May, deployed rapid response teams, and established provincial coordination and treatment centres. Spokesperson Patrick Muyaya stressed that Ebola is a viral disease, not mystical, and urged the public to follow barrier measures such as hand‑washing and avoiding physical contact. Surveillance and contact‑tracing are ongoing. More than 65 contacts were identified early in the outbreak, including 15 considered high‑risk. Follow‑up has been hampered by insecurity and population movements, but isolation and monitoring are being implemented. Treatment capacity is expanding. The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs are erecting tents and opening new isolation centres in Bunia and other zones. An information hotline (151) and community outreach have been launched. President Félix Tshisekedi convened a crisis meeting and instructed ministers to strengthen the response. International partners, WHO, Africa CDC, UNICEF, MONUSCO, WFP, CDC and Médecins sans frontières (MSF), are supporting the response. WHO has airlifted supplies, deployed experts in epidemiology, contact tracing and infection prevention, and is helping with safe burials. Africa CDC convened a regional coordination meeting and is assisting with surveillance, laboratories and cross‑border collaboration. UNICEF mobilised nearly 50 t of infection‑control supplies and sent an emergency rapid‑response team to Bunia. MONUSCO has reinforced screening at mission clinics and is adapting its operations to support health authorities. Security challenges are severe. Ituri and North Kivu are plagued by armed groups, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and Rwanda‑backed M23, whose attacks have displaced communities and closed roads. The humanitarian situation restricts surveillance and contact tracing, while attacks on health facilities undermine trust. Border closures and checkpoints, such as the Goma–Rwanda crossing, have slowed commerce and risk unmonitored crossings. The United Nations warns that nearly nine million people in eastern DRC face crisis‑level hunger and that only 30 % of required health funding had been mobilised by mid‑May. DRC’s history of managing Ebola, especially the 2018‑2020 North Kivu outbreak—has created a foundation of trained responders, laboratory networks and community outreach mechanisms. This experience, coupled with rapid mobilisation of international support, positions the government to contain the Bundibugyo outbreak. However, success hinges on security, access and trust; health authorities and partners consistently stress that public health cannot be separated from peace and state authority. Continue Reading Full Article EBOLA OUTBREAK How DRC Is Fighting Ebola Amid War and Security Chaos in Eastern Congo By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment May 20, 2026 May 20, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Executive summary The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is confronting its 17th Ebola outbreak since 1976. This epidemic, declared by the Ministry of Public Health on 15 May 2026, involves the Bundibugyo virus, a strain for which no approved vaccine or specific treatment exists. The outbreak began in Mongbwalu, a gold‑mining hub in Ituri province, where the movement of mine workers fuelled spread before cases were detected. By mid‑May, authorities reported hundreds of suspected cases and more than one hundred deaths across Ituri and neighbouring North Kivu; by 19 May the numbers had risen to over 543 suspected cases and 131 deaths. Key facts The government activated its national emergency response on 15 May, deployed rapid response teams, and established provincial coordination and treatment centres. Spokesperson Patrick Muyaya stressed that Ebola is a viral disease, not mystical, and urged the public to follow barrier measures such as hand‑washing and avoiding physical contact. Surveillance and contact‑tracing are ongoing. More than 65 contacts were identified early in the outbreak, including 15 considered high‑risk. Follow‑up has been hampered by insecurity and population movements, but isolation and monitoring are being implemented. Treatment capacity is expanding. The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs are erecting tents and opening new isolation centres in Bunia and other zones. An information hotline (151) and community outreach have been launched. President Félix Tshisekedi convened a crisis meeting and instructed ministers to strengthen the response. International partners, WHO, Africa CDC, UNICEF, MONUSCO, WFP, CDC and Médecins sans frontières (MSF), are supporting the response. WHO has airlifted supplies, deployed experts in epidemiology, contact tracing and infection prevention, and is helping with safe burials. Africa CDC convened a regional coordination meeting and is assisting with surveillance, laboratories and cross‑border collaboration. UNICEF mobilised nearly 50 t of infection‑control supplies and sent an emergency rapid‑response team to Bunia. MONUSCO has reinforced screening at mission clinics and is adapting its operations to support health authorities. Security challenges are severe. Ituri and North Kivu are plagued by armed groups, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and Rwanda‑backed M23, whose attacks have displaced communities and closed roads. The humanitarian situation restricts surveillance and contact tracing, while attacks on health facilities undermine trust. Border closures and checkpoints, such as the Goma–Rwanda crossing, have slowed commerce and risk unmonitored crossings. The United Nations warns that nearly nine million people in eastern DRC face crisis‑level hunger and that only 30 % of required health funding had been mobilised by mid‑May. ADVERTISEMENT DRC’s history of managing Ebola, especially the 2018‑2020 North Kivu outbreak—has created a foundation of trained responders, laboratory networks and community outreach mechanisms. This experience, coupled with rapid mobilisation of international support, positions the government to contain the Bundibugyo outbreak. However, success hinges on security, access and trust; health authorities and partners consistently stress that public health cannot be separated from peace and state authority. ADVERTISEMENT Timeline of response actions Date (2026) Event 24 Apr (approx.) A nurse in Bunia (Ituri) falls ill after working in Mongbwalu, becoming the first known case of Bundibugyo Ebola. 5 May WHO receives an alert of an unknown illness with high mortality in Mongbwalu. 15 May DRC government declares the country’s 17th Ebola outbreak; Ituri’s Rwampara, Mongbwalu and Bunia health zones are epicentres. Africa CDC notes there is no vaccine or specific treatment for Bundibugyo. 15 May WHO announces outbreak confirmation, praises DRC’s experience, and sends rapid response teams to strengthen surveillance, contact tracing, infection prevention and safe burials. 17 May WHO Director‑General declares the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The health cluster reports eight lab‑confirmed cases, 393 suspected cases and 105 suspected deaths. A confirmed case in Goma triggers closure of the border with Rwanda. 18 May President Tshisekedi convenes a crisis meeting, instructs ministers to strengthen the Ebola response , and emphasises rapid care for patients. Health Minister Roger Kamba announces 69 patients under care and more than 543 suspected cases. 18 May UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq tells journalists that WHO and humanitarian partners are supporting the government; WFP airlifts five tonnes of supplies and experts to Ituri; insecurity and displacement complicate operations. 19 May Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya reports 1 18 deaths among 435 suspected cases and urges adherence to barrier measures. 19 May Health authorities confirm 543 suspected cases, 131 deaths and 33 confirmed cases; limited diagnostic capacity (six tests per hour) and armed violence hinder detection. 20 May WHO reaffirms the PHEIC; it notes 51 confirmed cases, 139 deaths and more than 600 suspected cases. WHO allocates US$3.9 million and warns that insecurity and mobility impede surveillance. Late May CDC update notes 536 suspected cases, 105 probable cases, 34 confirmed cases and 134 deaths (DRC and Uganda combined). CDC emphasises supportive care, as case fatality for Bundibugyo ranges 25‑50 %. Despite the challenges, there is reason for cautious optimism. The DRC’s previous Ebola outbreaks have taught communities the importance of early reporting and safe practices. Rapid mobilisation of international partners has brought supplies, expertise and global attention. Communities are adapting; radio broadcasts in local languages remind listeners to seek care, and many families have begun using ash or soap to clean their hands. If armed groups allow health workers safe passage and funding continues, the DRC could once again demonstrate its capacity to overcome one of the world’s deadliest viruses. 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 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

Nigerian rap sensation Emeka Akumefule, widely known by his stage name Blaqbonez, has attributed the global ascendancy of afrobeats to Wizkid's chart-topping single "Essence." During a candid discussion in Los Angeles, where Blaqbonez shed light on his meteoric rise in the music scene, he also revealed his anticipation for an upcoming performance at the Grammys. Despite his burgeoning fame, Blaqbonez shared his initial skepticism about achieving such heights in his career. The artist, best known for his hit "Back In Uni," lauded "Essence," which features Tems' captivating vocals, as a turning point for the afrobeats genre. Blaqbonez's comments underline the song's critical role in propelling afrobeats to the forefront of the global music industry, marking it as a genre that not only captivates audiences worldwide but also promises a vibrant future. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 4, 2024 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian rap sensation Emeka Akumefule, widely known by his stage name Blaqbonez, has attributed the global ascendancy of afrobeats to Wizkid's chart-topping single "Essence." During a candid discussion in Los Angeles, where Blaqbonez shed light on his meteoric rise in the music scene, he also revealed his anticipation for an upcoming performance at the Grammys. ADVERTISEMENT Despite his burgeoning fame, Blaqbonez shared his initial skepticism about achieving such heights in his career. The artist, best known for his hit "Back In Uni," lauded "Essence," which features Tems' captivating vocals, as a turning point for the afrobeats genre. Blaqbonez's comments underline the song's critical role in propelling afrobeats to the forefront of the global music industry, marking it as a genre that not only captivates audiences worldwide but also promises a vibrant future. ADVERTISEMENT 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

Rwandan artist Nel Ngabo will stage his first-ever concert in Uganda on February 1, 2026, after seven years in music. According to the source article, Rwandan singer Rwangabo Byusa Nelson, popularly known as Nel Ngabo , is preparing to perform in Uganda for the first time since launching his music career seven years ago. The concert is scheduled to take place in Kampala on Sunday, February 1, 2026. The performance will coincide with regional celebrations marking Heroes Day, a public holiday observed in Uganda. Nel Ngabo described the upcoming show as a significant step in expanding his music beyond Rwanda and reaching a broader East African audience. The artist said the event is intended to celebrate unity and shared cultural moments, noting that it provides an opportunity to engage Ugandan fans while honoring the historical significance of the day. Nel Ngabo also indicated that the Kampala concert will serve as the opening event in a series of international performances planned for 2026, as part of efforts to grow his presence on the global music scene. Since debuting with the song Why , Nel Ngabo has released several popular tracks including Nzahinduka , Byakoroha , and Ya Motoma , the latter featuring Platini. He also collaborated with Platini P on Look at You , a track included on their joint album Vibranium . Over the past seven years, the singer has released three studio albums. His most recent project, Life Love & Light , was released in May 2025, following earlier albums RNB 360 and Ingabo . The upcoming Kampala show places Nel Ngabo among a growing number of Rwandan artists seeking to establish a presence on international stages. Source: InyaRwanda Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Nel Ngabo to Perform in Uganda for First Time After Seven Years By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jan 28, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: According to the source article, Rwandan singer Rwangabo Byusa Nelson, popularly known as Nel Ngabo , is preparing to perform in Uganda for the first time since launching his music career seven years ago. The concert is scheduled to take place in Kampala on Sunday, February 1, 2026. The performance will coincide with regional celebrations marking Heroes Day, a public holiday observed in Uganda. Nel Ngabo described the upcoming show as a significant step in expanding his music beyond Rwanda and reaching a broader East African audience. ADVERTISEMENT The artist said the event is intended to celebrate unity and shared cultural moments, noting that it provides an opportunity to engage Ugandan fans while honoring the historical significance of the day. Nel Ngabo also indicated that the Kampala concert will serve as the opening event in a series of international performances planned for 2026, as part of efforts to grow his presence on the global music scene. Since debuting with the song Why , Nel Ngabo has released several popular tracks including Nzahinduka , Byakoroha , and Ya Motoma , the latter featuring Platini. He also collaborated with Platini P on Look at You , a track included on their joint album Vibranium . ADVERTISEMENT Over the past seven years, the singer has released three studio albums. His most recent project, Life Love & Light , was released in May 2025, following earlier albums RNB 360 and Ingabo . The upcoming Kampala show places Nel Ngabo among a growing number of Rwandan artists seeking to establish a presence on international stages. 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 Source: InyaRwanda 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 Rwandan Entertainment Rwandan Entertainment Rwanda Rwanda

Khloé Kardashian says vodka changes her mood, admitting she has been aggressive toward Kendall Jenner during past drinking moments. Khloé Kardashian has acknowledged that alcohol, particularly vodka, significantly alters her behavior, leading to moments she now regrets. Speaking on her “Khloé In Wonder Land” podcast with guest Savas Oguz, the reality star said vodka tends to make her aggressive, noting that her sister Kendall Jenner has been on the receiving end of that shift in mood. Khloé said she has, at times, become physical with Kendall after drinking, a pattern she openly criticized in herself. Oguz supported her account, saying he has personally witnessed the incidents. Khloé emphasized that there is no justification for her past actions, describing Kendall as one of the kindest people she knows. Oguz added that during such moments, he would avoid proximity to Khloé to prevent potential embarrassment or conflict. The conversation highlighted Khloé’s candid reflection on how certain types of alcohol negatively impact her behavior and her acknowledgment of the need for accountability. Continue Reading Full Article FASHION Khloé Kardashian Admits Vodka Makes Her Aggressive With Kendall By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 3, 2025 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Khloé Kardashian has acknowledged that alcohol, particularly vodka, significantly alters her behavior, leading to moments she now regrets. Speaking on her “Khloé In Wonder Land” podcast with guest Savas Oguz, the reality star said vodka tends to make her aggressive, noting that her sister Kendall Jenner has been on the receiving end of that shift in mood. Khloé said she has, at times, become physical with Kendall after drinking, a pattern she openly criticized in herself. Oguz supported her account, saying he has personally witnessed the incidents. ADVERTISEMENT Khloé emphasized that there is no justification for her past actions, describing Kendall as one of the kindest people she knows. ADVERTISEMENT Oguz added that during such moments, he would avoid proximity to Khloé to prevent potential embarrassment or conflict. The conversation highlighted Khloé’s candid reflection on how certain types of alcohol negatively impact her behavior and her acknowledgment of the need for accountability. 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 KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career . Pop Culture Trends Jessie J Says Cancer Risk Remains Despite Early Detection and Surgery . Celebrity Trends jay-z-solange-met-gala-elevator-incident-new-details . Afrobeats Lilian Mbabazi Misses Stage Appearance at Davido’s Kigali Concert . Justice & Crime Tekashi 6ix9ine Given Three-Month Prison Term for Probation Violations . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career Meet Ghana’s KiDi: his age, family, breakthrough, awards and 2026 album . Pop Culture Trends Jessie J Says Cancer Risk Remains Despite Early Detection and Surgery Singer reflects on diagnosis, surgery and emotional moment with her mother after cancer news . Celebrity Trends jay-z-solange-met-gala-elevator-incident-new-details Designer Oscar G. Lopez offers new insight into the 2014 elevator confrontation at the Met Gala . Afrobeats Lilian Mbabazi Misses Stage Appearance at Davido’s Kigali Concert Singer left waiting backstage after planned duet with Kitoko was cut during Davido’s BK Arena show . Tags Musics Musics

For the first time, women hold nearly one‑third of DRC government posts. This article celebrates Judith Suminwa and Tshisekedi’s reforms, & inclusive leadership. A historic breakthrough For the first time in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s history, women now hold almost 32 % of government positions. The cabinet reshuffle of 7 August 2025 produced a slimmed down team of 53 members in which 17 women serve alongside Prime Minister Judith Suminwa In comparison, the May 2024 government had 18 women out of 55 members (32.7 %) while the Sacred Union government of 2021 had only 27 % women This steady climb from 17 % in 2019 to one third today signals a cultural shift: women are no longer token appointments; they are central to policymaking. Globally, the DRC is outpacing many nations. UN Women’s Facts and Figures report shows that women represent only 22.9 % of cabinet ministers worldwide, and just 18 countries have a woman head of state, while 20 have a woman head of government. Women account for 27.2 % of parliamentarians. The DRC’s 32 % female cabinet therefore sits above the global average and close to parity targets set by the African Union. The August 2025 reshuffle: a government led by women President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi, re-elected in December 2023, chose to retain Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, the country’s first woman premier, and to deepen gender inclusion across key ministries. Suminwa, an economist and former planning minister, acknowledged the enormity of her task during her inaugural press conference: “I know the task is big and the challenge immense. But together, with the head of state, support from the government and all institutions, and that of the Congolese population, we will make it. In a national address, she also pledged to “work for peace and the development of the country”. The new cabinet breaks with past gendered stereotypes. Women now head portfolios well beyond traditional social sectors. Thérèse Wagner leads Foreign Affairs, confronting regional security challenges and asserting Congo’s sovereignty; at the UN Security Council she denounced Rwanda’s incursion into eastern Congo as a “declaration of war” and an “open violation of national sovereignty” Ève Bazaiba continues at Social Affairs, while Acacia Bandubola oversees Hydrocarbons, a sector central to economic diversification. The state minister for National Education and New Citizenship, Raïssa Malu , has become an articulate advocate for youth. In an interview, she stressed that “Education is a fundamental right and an essential means of protecting vulnerable children… Investing in education in the Democratic Republic of the Congo means investing in stability, sustainable development, and peace. She pledged to consolidate free primary education launched under Tshisekedi and to provide scholarships and digital learning to reach rural children. Malu also frames girls’ education as a question of social justice, citing programmes that promote STEM, cultural activities, and school clubs Other women occupy influential posts: Marie Nyange Ngambo at Environment, Marie Thérèse Sombo at Higher Education, Yolande Elebe at Culture, Micheline Ombaye at Gender & Family, Grâce Kutino at Youth, Oneige Nsele at Land Affairs, and Arlette Bahati as minister delegate for the New Economy. Their mandates range from climate policy and oil revenues to land reform, culture, and youth empowerment. Culture minister Yolande Elebe champions cultural sovereignty; speaking at the World Music and Tourism Festival she called rumba “a fluid, pure and universal recognition of the grandeur of Congolese heritage” and described culture as “a formidable, peaceful weapon” for national identity, This poetic defense of culture underscores how women leaders are shaping not only social policy but national narratives. Judith Suminwa: the face of inclusive leadership Continue Reading Full Article WOMAN LEADERSHIP Women Transform DR Congo’s Future: 32% of Government Now Female By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 8, 2025 May 15, 2026 8 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A historic breakthrough For the first time in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s history, women now hold almost 32 % of government positions. The cabinet reshuffle of 7 August 2025 produced a slimmed down team of 53 members in which 17 women serve alongside Prime Minister Judith Suminwa In comparison, the May 2024 government had 18 women out of 55 members (32.7 %) while the Sacred Union government of 2021 had only 27 % women This steady climb from 17 % in 2019 to one third today signals a cultural shift: women are no longer token appointments; they are central to policymaking. Globally, the DRC is outpacing many nations. UN Women’s Facts and Figures report shows that women represent only 22.9 % of cabinet ministers worldwide, and just 18 countries have a woman head of state, while 20 have a woman head of government. Women account for 27.2 % of parliamentarians. The DRC’s 32 % female cabinet therefore sits above the global average and close to parity targets set by the African Union. The August 2025 reshuffle: a government led by women President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi, re-elected in December 2023, chose to retain Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, the country’s first woman premier, and to deepen gender inclusion across key ministries. Suminwa, an economist and former planning minister, acknowledged the enormity of her task during her inaugural press conference: “I know the task is big and the challenge immense. But together, with the head of state, support from the government and all institutions, and that of the Congolese population, we will make it. In a national address, she also pledged to “work for peace and the development of the country”. The new cabinet breaks with past gendered stereotypes. Women now head portfolios well beyond traditional social sectors. Thérèse Wagner leads Foreign Affairs, confronting regional security challenges and asserting Congo’s sovereignty; at the UN Security Council she denounced Rwanda’s incursion into eastern Congo as a “declaration of war” and an “open violation of national sovereignty” Ève Bazaiba continues at Social Affairs, while Acacia Bandubola oversees Hydrocarbons, a sector central to economic diversification. The state minister for National Education and New Citizenship, Raïssa Malu , has become an articulate advocate for youth. In an interview, she stressed that “Education is a fundamental right and an essential means of protecting vulnerable children… Investing in education in the Democratic Republic of the Congo means investing in stability, sustainable development, and peace. She pledged to consolidate free primary education launched under Tshisekedi and to provide scholarships and digital learning to reach rural children. ADVERTISEMENT Malu also frames girls’ education as a question of social justice, citing programmes that promote STEM, cultural activities, and school clubs Other women occupy influential posts: Marie Nyange Ngambo at Environment, Marie Thérèse Sombo at Higher Education, Yolande Elebe at Culture, Micheline Ombaye at Gender & Family, Grâce Kutino at Youth, Oneige Nsele at Land Affairs, and Arlette Bahati as minister delegate for the New Economy. Their mandates range from climate policy and oil revenues to land reform, culture, and youth empowerment. Culture minister Yolande Elebe champions cultural sovereignty; speaking at the World Music and Tourism Festival she called rumba “a fluid, pure and universal recognition of the grandeur of Congolese heritage” and described culture as “a formidable, peaceful weapon” for national identity, This poetic defense of culture underscores how women leaders are shaping not only social policy but national narratives. Judith Suminwa: the face of inclusive leadership Judith Suminwa Tuluka’s journey embodies Congo’s transformation. Before becoming prime minister, she served as planning minister and attended the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program, where she refined a strategy to stimulate economic growth through human development and better resource allocation, Her technocratic credentials help her implement Tshisekedi’s six pillar program, national economy, security, spatial planning, social well being, responsible ecosystems and human development, outlined during her first hundred days, Suminwa frequently links peace to opportunity: during a visit to conflict torn eastern Congo she declared, “I think of all these people and my heart beats for them” pledging to translate promises into concrete actions. Suminwa is also unafraid to speak on the international stage. At the UN Human Rights Council in February 2025, she lamented that some 7,000 people had died since January and highlighted that about 450,000 people were left without shelter after 90 displacement camps were destroyed, demonstrating her willingness to confront the humanitarian crisis head-on on reuters.com. Such candor, combined with pragmatic policy making, positions her as both a symbol of change and a catalyst for reform. ADVERTISEMENT Tshisekedi’s reformist vision President Tshisekedi has deliberately fostered this surge of women leaders. His administration enacted a 2022 electoral law that exempts parties from deposit fees if at least 50 % of their candidate lists are women, incentivising gender parity in electoral competition. In a speech to the UN General Assembly in 2024, Tshisekedi argued that women’s concerns must be integrated into major decisions. He pledged to change mentalities, involve men in advancing women’s success, and noted that the Congolese constitution enshrines parity. He highlighted the creation of a national strategy against gender based violence and celebrated the appointment of a woman as prime minister and increased female presence in government, the judiciary, and the Central Bank Beyond gender equality, Tshisekedi’s reforms include free primary education, digital connectivity projects, anti-corruption efforts, and investment in basic infrastructure. Suminwa’s government has introduced ambitious investment programs worth nearly US$93 billion over five years and proposed fiscal reforms to boost purchasing power. These socioeconomic policies, combined with gender inclusion, reflect a holistic approach to development. Global benchmarks: DR Congo punches above its weight In 2025, the world will still struggle with gender parity. UN Women’s data show that 22.9 % of cabinet ministers are women worldwide and that the most common portfolios entrusted to women are social protection and culture. Only 18 countries have a woman head of state, and 20 have a woman head of government, and women hold 27.2 % of parliamentary seats. Against this backdrop, the DRC’s 32 % female cabinet and first female prime minister stand out, placing the country ahead of many more developed democracies. What remains to be done Despite the progress, challenges persist. None of the current deputy prime minister positions nor the defense, interior, finance, or economy portfolios are held by women. Representation remains uneven at the provincial level and within parastatal agencies. Women leaders themselves acknowledge that parity is a process. As Raïssa Malu notes, “Free primary education… is an important achievement that needs to be consolidated”, but obstacles such as indirect costs and cultural barriers still hinder girls’ education. She advocates scholarships, digital learning, and community awareness to keep girls in school. Similarly, Suminwa and Wagner face daunting security crises that test their capacity and underline the need for systemic reforms in security and justice. 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 Scholarships Russia Confirms 100 Scholarships for Congolese Students . Patriotism Tshisekedi Urges Congolese in Russia to Be DRC Ambassadors . Healthcare System Kasa-Vubu Youth Centre Inaugurated in Kinshasa . Business & Investment DRC Urges Diaspora to Invest Skills and Capital at Home . Biography Miguel Masaisai Biography: The Cyclist Who Rode for Peace . ADVERTISEMENT A hopeful, Pan African conclusion From 17 % female representation in 2019 to almost one-third today, the Democratic Republic of Congo is rewriting its political narrative. A generation of competent, articulate, and courageous women now sit at the cabinet table. They manage foreign affairs, energy, education, culture, environment, and youth; they speak frankly about conflict and humanitarian crises; they champion culture as a weapon of peace. President Tshisekedi’s reformist agenda, and his own words at the UN that women’s concerns must be central, have created space for this transformation. But the momentum also springs from the women themselves: Judith Suminwa’s relentless pragmatism, Thérèse Wagner’s diplomatic resolve, Raïssa Malu’s vision for an educated youth, and Yolande Elebe’s cultural pride. For young Congolese women and those in the diaspora, this moment is inspiring. It signals that leadership is no longer defined by gender but by merit and vision. It affirms that the DRC can be a Pan African leader in inclusive governance, proving that bold reforms and female leadership can coexist with stability, growth, and national pride. The path to parity is not over, but the future of Congo is already being shaped by the women who govern it. Explore the DR Congo Rising hub for more stories that highlight DR Congo’s progress and potential. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Scholarships Russia Confirms 100 Scholarships for Congolese Students Russia confirms 100 government scholarship places for Congolese students, reaffirming education . Patriotism Tshisekedi Urges Congolese in Russia to Be DRC Ambassadors Meeting the Congolese diaspora in Moscow, Tshisekedi calls for patriotism, academic excellence . Healthcare System Kasa-Vubu Youth Centre Inaugurated in Kinshasa A new youth space combines health information and participation, with access details still unclear. . Business & Investment DRC Urges Diaspora to Invest Skills and Capital at Home DiaspoBoost 2026 urges Congolese abroad to invest capital, share expertise and support local businesses . Tags DRC Youths DRC Youths DR.Congo DR.Congo DR Congo Rising DR Congo Rising DR Congo News DR Congo News

Davido turned a FIFA World Cup performance into a call for the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers from Oyo State. When most artists step onto a World Cup stage, the focus is usually on music, celebration, and spectacle. Davido had something else on his mind. The Nigerian superstar used his appearance at a FIFA World Cup event to shine a spotlight on the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers from Oyo State, transforming a high-profile performance into a moment of advocacy. According to reports , Davido appeared on stage wearing a custom-made jacket carrying the names of the kidnapped victims alongside a clear message: "Bring Them Home." The gesture immediately caught the attention of fans both inside the venue and online. As photos and videos from the performance spread across social media, many Nigerians praised the singer for using one of the world's biggest entertainment platforms to draw attention to a humanitarian issue unfolding back home. Rather than delivering a direct speech, Davido let the symbolism speak for itself. The message on his outfit served as a public appeal for the safe return of the victims while showing support for families still waiting for answers. The moment added a more serious tone to the World Cup celebrations. While football fans around the world were focused on the tournament , Davido reminded audiences that communities in Nigeria continue to face security challenges that rarely receive sustained international attention. Public reaction has been largely positive. Many supporters described the move as a powerful example of how artists can use their visibility to highlight issues that extend beyond music and entertainment. For Davido, it was more than a performance. It was an opportunity to place a national concern before a global audience and ensure that the voices of affected families were not lost amid the noise of one of the world's largest sporting events. ENTERTAINMENT Davido Uses World Cup Stage to Demand Return of Oyo Pupils By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jun 11, 2026 Jun 11, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: When most artists step onto a World Cup stage, the focus is usually on music, celebration, and spectacle. Davido had something else on his mind. The Nigerian superstar used his appearance at a FIFA World Cup event to shine a spotlight on the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers from Oyo State, transforming a high-profile performance into a moment of advocacy. ADVERTISEMENT According to reports , Davido appeared on stage wearing a custom-made jacket carrying the names of the kidnapped victims alongside a clear message: "Bring Them Home." The gesture immediately caught the attention of fans both inside the venue and online. As photos and videos from the performance spread across social media, many Nigerians praised the singer for using one of the world's biggest entertainment platforms to draw attention to a humanitarian issue unfolding back home. ADVERTISEMENT Rather than delivering a direct speech, Davido let the symbolism speak for itself. The message on his outfit served as a public appeal for the safe return of the victims while showing support for families still waiting for answers. The moment added a more serious tone to the World Cup celebrations. While football fans around the world were focused on the tournament , Davido reminded audiences that communities in Nigeria continue to face security challenges that rarely receive sustained international attention. 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 Public reaction has been largely positive. Many supporters described the move as a powerful example of how artists can use their visibility to highlight issues that extend beyond music and entertainment. For Davido, it was more than a performance. It was an opportunity to place a national concern before a global audience and ensure that the voices of affected families were not lost amid the noise of one of the world's largest sporting events. 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

DRC plans a major mining reform that would give workers company shares, expand Congolese ownership, and boost local benefits from mineral wealth. The Democratic Republic of Congo is preparing a draft decree to finally enforce one of the most ambitious provisions of its 2018 Mining Code: requiring mining companies to reserve 10% of their equity for Congolese nationals. The move is designed to ensure that the country's vast mineral wealth generates direct ownership opportunities for Congolese citizens rather than benefiting only shareholders and foreign investors. Under the proposed framework, 5% of a mining company's equity would be allocated to Congolese employees through worker cooperatives. Rather than requiring workers to purchase shares upfront, companies would provide interest-free financing, with future dividends used to repay the cost of the shares. Once the financing is fully repaid, workers would become the outright owners of the stake and receive the full benefits of future dividends. The remaining 5% would be reserved for other Congolese nationals through locally owned companies or public social security institutions. Together, the measures aim to broaden participation in one of the world's most strategic mining industries and ensure that more Congolese citizens benefit directly from the country's copper, cobalt, and critical mineral wealth. The reform comes as the government increases pressure on mining companies to comply with the law. In January 2026, Mines Minister Louis Watum Kabamba instructed operators to provide proof of compliance by July 31, 2026, warning that sanctions could follow for those that fail to meet the requirement. Major companies operating in the country, including Glencore, Ivanhoe Mines, and CMOC, are expected to demonstrate how they will implement the ownership provisions. One of the most significant elements of the draft decree is its anti-dilution protection. The proposed rules would prevent companies from reducing the Congolese ownership stake through future capital increases or share issuances, ensuring that the 10% allocation remains intact over time regardless of changes in corporate structure. Supporters argue that the reform could mark a historic shift in the way mining wealth is distributed in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By transforming workers from employees into shareholders, the government hopes to promote long-term wealth creation, strengthen local participation in the sector, and align mining growth more closely with national development objectives. If fully implemented, the decree would represent one of the most significant local ownership reforms in Africa's mining industry and could redefine how the world's leading cobalt producer shares the benefits of its natural resources with its own citizens. MINING AND MINERALS DRC Plans Landmark Mining Reform to Make Workers Shareholders By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jun 24, 2026 Jun 24, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo is preparing a draft decree to finally enforce one of the most ambitious provisions of its 2018 Mining Code: requiring mining companies to reserve 10% of their equity for Congolese nationals. The move is designed to ensure that the country's vast mineral wealth generates direct ownership opportunities for Congolese citizens rather than benefiting only shareholders and foreign investors. Under the proposed framework, 5% of a mining company's equity would be allocated to Congolese employees through worker cooperatives. Rather than requiring workers to purchase shares upfront, companies would provide interest-free financing, with future dividends used to repay the cost of the shares. ADVERTISEMENT Once the financing is fully repaid, workers would become the outright owners of the stake and receive the full benefits of future dividends. The remaining 5% would be reserved for other Congolese nationals through locally owned companies or public social security institutions. Together, the measures aim to broaden participation in one of the world's most strategic mining industries and ensure that more Congolese citizens benefit directly from the country's copper, cobalt, and critical mineral wealth. ADVERTISEMENT The reform comes as the government increases pressure on mining companies to comply with the law. In January 2026, Mines Minister Louis Watum Kabamba instructed operators to provide proof of compliance by July 31, 2026, warning that sanctions could follow for those that fail to meet the requirement. Major companies operating in the country, including Glencore, Ivanhoe Mines, and CMOC, are expected to demonstrate how they will implement the ownership provisions. One of the most significant elements of the draft decree is its anti-dilution protection. The proposed rules would prevent companies from reducing the Congolese ownership stake through future capital increases or share issuances, ensuring that the 10% allocation remains intact over time regardless of changes in corporate structure. 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 Mining and Minerals Kamilombe Relocation: Compensation and ZEA 371 Explained . Mining and Minerals Zijin Reports About $6 Billion in Cumulative DRC Mining Investment . Mining and Minerals DRC Takes Mining Investment Campaign to China Conference . Mining and Minerals Eastern DRC copper project delivers promising new drilling results . Mining and Minerals DRC to Launch State-Controlled Geological Data Bank in 2026 . ADVERTISEMENT Supporters argue that the reform could mark a historic shift in the way mining wealth is distributed in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By transforming workers from employees into shareholders, the government hopes to promote long-term wealth creation, strengthen local participation in the sector, and align mining growth more closely with national development objectives. If fully implemented, the decree would represent one of the most significant local ownership reforms in Africa's mining industry and could redefine how the world's leading cobalt producer shares the benefits of its natural resources with its own citizens. 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