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  • Prince Harry reacts to Meghan Markle’s Valentine’s Day gift

    Meghan Markle surprised Prince Harry with an early Valentine’s Day gift, sharing a behind-the-scenes video of his reaction on Instagram. Prince Harry was surprised with an early Valentine’s Day gift from Meghan Markle , according to a video the Duchess of Sussex shared on social media. The short clip, posted on Meghan’s personal Instagram accoun t on February 5, shows her entering a room where Prince Harry was working and presenting him with chocolates from her As Ever x Compartes collection. The Duke of Sussex, seated at his desk, looked up from his laptop and reacted with visible enthusiasm as he accepted the gift. In the video, Harry selects one chocolate from the assortment and thanks Meghan before telling her, “Love you,” prompting laughter from off camera. The moment appeared informal and unscripted, offering a glimpse into the couple’s home setting. Meghan later described the chocolate collection as part of her Valentine’s Day release, calling it “a love letter in chocolate” and highlighting new and exclusive flavors included in the assortment. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have occasionally shared personal moments through social media, though they largely keep their private life out of public view. Source: Geo News Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Prince Harry reacts to Meghan Markle’s Valentine’s Day gift 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: Prince Harry was surprised with an early Valentine’s Day gift from Meghan Markle , according to a video the Duchess of Sussex shared on social media. The short clip, posted on Meghan’s personal Instagram accoun t on February 5, shows her entering a room where Prince Harry was working and presenting him with chocolates from her As Ever x Compartes collection. The Duke of Sussex, seated at his desk, looked up from his laptop and reacted with visible enthusiasm as he accepted the gift. In the video, Harry selects one chocolate from the assortment and thanks Meghan before telling her, “Love you,” prompting laughter from off camera. The moment appeared informal and unscripted, offering a glimpse into the couple’s home setting. ADVERTISEMENT Meghan later described the chocolate collection as part of her Valentine’s Day release, calling it “a love letter in chocolate” and highlighting new and exclusive flavors included in the assortment. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have occasionally shared personal moments through social media, though they largely keep their private life out of public view. ADVERTISEMENT Source: Geo News 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 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

  • Nathi Mthethwa Biography: Paris Death Probe Closed

    Nathi Mthethwa’s biography, political career, wife, diplomatic role and the official closure of the French investigation into his death. French authorities have closed the investigation into Nathi Mthethwa’s 2025 death, allowing South African estate proceedings to move forward. Who was Nathi Mthethwa? Emmanuel Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa was a South African politician and diplomat who served as police minister, arts and culture minister, and ambassador to France. He died in Paris at 58 in September 2025. In September 2026, South Africa confirmed that the French investigation had been closed. Why Nathi Mthethwa is back in the news South Africa’s Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development said on 18 September 2026 that it had received documentation required by the Master of the High Court concerning Mthethwa’s estate. The documents followed the Paris Prosecutor’s Office’s finalisation of its investigation into his death. The official Justice Ministry statement said the French finding reaffirmed the cause previously communicated by the family. It did not repeat the cause in the statement itself. The ministry said the matter was finalised and closed, enabling administration of the estate to proceed. eNCA’s report on the closure confirmed the same administrative consequence, while Jacaranda FM carried Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi’s call for the public and media to stop circulating unfounded claims and respect the family’s privacy. French authorities had previously described the death as suicide. The new South African statement is important because it confirms receipt of the formal documentation needed at home; it is not an invitation to revive unsupported theories about the circumstances. His death and the official record Mthethwa died in Paris on 30 September 2025 while serving as South Africa’s ambassador to France. He was 58. The initial Associated Press report cited the Paris prosecutor and reported that the investigation found no signs of a struggle at the scene. The Presidency later declared a Special Official Funeral Category 2 in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal. Its official funeral notice recorded his death, age, diplomatic posting and 15 years in Cabinet. Continue Reading Full Article BIOGRAPHY Nathi Mthethwa Biography: Paris Death Probe Closed By Truce Elikia Art & Culture Journalist Truce Elikia Home Comment Sep 20, 2026 Sep 20, 2026 7 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: French authorities have closed the investigation into Nathi Mthethwa’s 2025 death, allowing South African estate proceedings to move forward. Who was Nathi Mthethwa? Emmanuel Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa was a South African politician and diplomat who served as police minister, arts and culture minister, and ambassador to France. He died in Paris at 58 in September 2025. In September 2026, South Africa confirmed that the French investigation had been closed. Why Nathi Mthethwa is back in the news South Africa’s Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development said on 18 September 2026 that it had received documentation required by the Master of the High Court concerning Mthethwa’s estate. The documents followed the Paris Prosecutor’s Office’s finalisation of its investigation into his death. The official Justice Ministry statement said the French finding reaffirmed the cause previously communicated by the family. It did not repeat the cause in the statement itself. The ministry said the matter was finalised and closed, enabling administration of the estate to proceed. eNCA’s report on the closure confirmed the same administrative consequence, while Jacaranda FM carried Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi’s call for the public and media to stop circulating unfounded claims and respect the family’s privacy. French authorities had previously described the death as suicide. The new South African statement is important because it confirms receipt of the formal documentation needed at home; it is not an invitation to revive unsupported theories about the circumstances. His death and the official record Mthethwa died in Paris on 30 September 2025 while serving as South Africa’s ambassador to France. He was 58. The initial Associated Press report cited the Paris prosecutor and reported that the investigation found no signs of a struggle at the scene. The Presidency later declared a Special Official Funeral Category 2 in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal. Its official funeral notice recorded his death, age, diplomatic posting and 15 years in Cabinet. The September 2026 closure supplies an official endpoint to the French inquiry and allows the estate process to continue. It does not change the date of death, his age or his record of public service. ADVERTISEMENT From anti-apartheid activism to Parliament Mthethwa was born on 23 January 1967 and became politically active as a teenager in KwaZulu-Natal. The South African Government’s career profile says he joined the Klaarwater Youth Organisation at 15, later became a shop steward in the Food and Allied Workers Union and participated in the ANC’s underground Operation Vula. He rose through structures of the ANC Youth League and entered Parliament in 2002. He chaired the National Assembly’s Minerals and Energy Portfolio Committee and became ANC chief whip in 2008. Mthethwa served as minister of safety and security from September 2008 until the portfolio became the police ministry in 2009. He remained police minister until 2014. He then led arts and culture from 2014 to 2019 and the combined sport, arts and culture portfolio from 2019 to March 2023. His education included a diploma in community development from the University of Natal, an executive preparatory programme certificate in mining engineering from the University of Johannesburg, and a leadership communication certificate from Rhodes University. Diplomatic posting in France After leaving Cabinet and Parliament in 2023, Mthethwa was appointed South Africa’s ambassador to France. The South African Embassy in Paris profile recorded his earlier political and ministerial roles and his service as South Africa’s representative in France. He also served as South Africa’s permanent delegate to UNESCO. The posting extended his public career from domestic politics into diplomacy and cultural relations. At his official funeral, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s eulogy remembered Mthethwa’s activism, trade-union work, ANC leadership and advocacy for artists’ rights. His political legacy remains debated, especially his years in the police portfolio, but the official record establishes the offices he held and the chronology of his service. ADVERTISEMENT Personal life and family information Mthethwa was married to Philisiwe Buthelezi. The Presidency addressed her directly at his funeral and extended condolences to her and the wider family. Official funeral material also acknowledged his children but did not establish their number or names, so weaker biographical claims should not be repeated as fact. Nathi Mthethwa career timeline Year Event Significance 1982 Joined the Klaarwater Youth Organisation Began organised political activism as a teenager 1988–1989 Worked underground in Operation Vula Participated in the anti-apartheid movement 2002 Entered South Africa’s Parliament Began national legislative service 2008 Became minister of safety and security Entered Cabinet 2009–2014 Served as minister of police Led the national police portfolio 2014–2023 Led arts, culture and later sport portfolios Oversaw cultural and sporting policy 2024 Began service as ambassador to France Moved into international diplomacy 2025 Died in Paris at 58 Ended a long political and diplomatic career 2026 French investigation formally closed Allowed South African estate administration to proceed Frequently asked questions Who was Nathi Mthethwa? He was a South African ANC politician, former Cabinet minister and ambassador to France. What was Nathi Mthethwa’s full name? His full name was Emmanuel Nkosinathi Mthethwa, though he was widely known as Nathi Mthethwa. How old was Nathi Mthethwa when he died? He was 58 years old. 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 Elections Monitoring South Africa Election Results: How to Read the Count . Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: Voting Hours, IDs and Ballots . Justice & Crime Julius Mkhwanazi, Kagiso Lerutla: Court Case Explained . Sports Trends Khanyisa Mayo Return Update: What Da Cruz Has Said . Elections Monitoring South Africa Special Voting: Hours, IDs and Home Visits . ADVERTISEMENT When did Nathi Mthethwa die? He died in Paris on 30 September 2025. Has the investigation into his death ended? Yes. South Africa’s Justice Ministry said on 18 September 2026 that the Paris matter was finalised and closed. Which government ministries did he lead? He served as minister of safety and security, police, arts and culture, and sport, arts and culture. Who was Nathi Mthethwa’s wife? He was married to Philisiwe Buthelezi. Did Nathi Mthethwa have children? Official funeral material acknowledged his children, but reliable official sources reviewed did not establish their number or names. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Elections Monitoring South Africa Election Results: How to Read the Count A practical guide to partial tallies, projections, ward winners and municipal council seats. . Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: Voting Hours, IDs and Ballots South Africans vote on 4 November. Check polling times, voter details, IDs and ballot rules. . Justice & Crime Julius Mkhwanazi, Kagiso Lerutla: Court Case Explained The Ekurhuleni fraud and corruption case returned to the news on 3 November 2026. . Sports Trends Khanyisa Mayo Return Update: What Da Cruz Has Said The Chiefs coach says Mayo is getting closer, but his post-derby comments give no comeback date. . Tags Southern Africa News Southern Africa News South Africa South Africa

  • Flavour Says He Can’t Be Tied Down to One Woman

    Nigerian music star Flavour says he isn't built for a traditional relationship and describes himself as part of the "wild world." Flavour is once again getting people talking—not because of a new song, but because of his candid thoughts on relationships. According to Daily Post , the Nigerian singer recently shared a personal perspective on his private life during a video broadcast that has since circulated widely on social media. The Nabania hitmaker made it clear that settling into a traditional one-partner relationship is not something he sees for himself. Describing his personality as adventurous and free-spirited, Flavour said he views himself as someone who thrives outside conventional expectations. Rather than seeing himself as a man who enjoys a domesticated lifestyle, the award-winning artist explained that he identifies more with freedom and exploration. He suggested that some men are comfortable with a more settled life, but he does not consider himself part of that group. The comments offer a rare glimpse into the mindset of one of Nigeria’s most private music stars. While Flavou r has largely kept discussions about his romantic life away from the spotlight, his latest remarks have sparked conversations online about relationships, commitment, and personal choice. The singer remains unmarried and is a father of three children with three different women, all of whom previously held beauty queen titles. Over the years, his personal life has often attracted public attention alongside his successful music career. As fans continue to debate his comments, Flavour’s message was straightforward: he sees himself as someone who values freedom above all else. Whether people agree or disagree, the singer has once again shown a willingness to speak openly about a part of his life that usually stays behind the scenes. ENTERTAINMENT Flavour Says He Can’t Be Tied Down to One Woman By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jun 4, 2026 Jun 4, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Flavour is once again getting people talking—not because of a new song, but because of his candid thoughts on relationships. According to Daily Post , the Nigerian singer recently shared a personal perspective on his private life during a video broadcast that has since circulated widely on social media. The Nabania hitmaker made it clear that settling into a traditional one-partner relationship is not something he sees for himself. Describing his personality as adventurous and free-spirited, Flavour said he views himself as someone who thrives outside conventional expectations. ADVERTISEMENT Rather than seeing himself as a man who enjoys a domesticated lifestyle, the award-winning artist explained that he identifies more with freedom and exploration. He suggested that some men are comfortable with a more settled life, but he does not consider himself part of that group. The comments offer a rare glimpse into the mindset of one of Nigeria’s most private music stars. While Flavou r has largely kept discussions about his romantic life away from the spotlight, his latest remarks have sparked conversations online about relationships, commitment, and personal choice. ADVERTISEMENT The singer remains unmarried and is a father of three children with three different women, all of whom previously held beauty queen titles. Over the years, his personal life has often attracted public attention alongside his successful music career. As fans continue to debate his comments, Flavour’s message was straightforward: he sees himself as someone who values freedom above all else. Whether people agree or disagree, the singer has once again shown a willingness to speak openly about a part of his life that usually stays behind the scenes. 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 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

  • Kim Kardashian Shares Surprise Wedding Photos From TV Drama

    Kim Kardashian releases wedding photos from a scene in ‘All’s Fair,’ prompting brief fan confusion before confirming it was promotional. Kim Kardashian surprised fans after sharing a series of wedding-themed photos on social media, prompting brief speculation about her marital status. The images, however, were from a scene in the finale of her legal drama All’s Fair . The reality star and entrepreneur appeared in a white gown and veil for the on-screen wedding, which features her character, Allura Grant, and co-star Matthew Noszka’s character, Chase. Kardashian has been promoting the two-part finale of the Ryan Murphy series on her Instagram account. “What do you think will come of Chase and Allura in season 2? All’s Fair two-part finale is on Hulu now!” she wrote in the caption. The post initially led some followers to believe she had actually married again, with several users commenting that they mistook the images for a real-life wedding announcement. The photos were later understood to be part of a promotional campaign for the show. All’s Fair follows a team of female divorce attorneys who leave a male-dominated law firm to launch their own practice. Kardashian was last publicly linked to NFL player Odell Beckham Jr., though her current relationship status remains unconfirmed. Continue Reading Full Article HOLLYWOOD UPDATES Kim Kardashian Shares Surprise Wedding Photos From TV Drama By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 10, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kim Kardashian surprised fans after sharing a series of wedding-themed photos on social media, prompting brief speculation about her marital status. The images, however, were from a scene in the finale of her legal drama All’s Fair . The reality star and entrepreneur appeared in a white gown and veil for the on-screen wedding, which features her character, Allura Grant, and co-star Matthew Noszka’s character, Chase. Kardashian has been promoting the two-part finale of the Ryan Murphy series on her Instagram account. “What do you think will come of Chase and Allura in season 2? All’s Fair two-part finale is on Hulu now!” she wrote in the caption. ADVERTISEMENT The post initially led some followers to believe she had actually married again, with several users commenting that they mistook the images for a real-life wedding announcement. The photos were later understood to be part of a promotional campaign for the show. All’s Fair follows a team of female divorce attorneys who leave a male-dominated law firm to launch their own practice. ADVERTISEMENT Kardashian was last publicly linked to NFL player Odell Beckham Jr., though her current relationship status remains unconfirmed. 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 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 United States United States

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

  • DRC Launches Major Diplomatic Mission in Latin America

    DRC launches a rare high-level diplomatic tour in Latin America, aiming to strengthen South-South ties ahead of its UN Security Council seat in 2026. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has launched a high-level diplomatic mission to Latin America, led by Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner. As the DRC prepares to assume the Vice-Presidency of the 80th United Nations General Assembly and a seat on the UN Security Council for the 2026–2027 term, it is seeking to strengthen South-South partnerships and deepen ties with Latin American nations. The mission, which began on August 5, 2025, in Uruguay, is the first of its kind in over four decades. It includes planned visits to Argentina and Brazil and will continue until August 13. “This is not simply a symbolic diplomatic rapprochement, but a major and courageous political act,” said Minister Wagner. “Latin America is not a distant continent for the DRC. It is a space of strategic opportunities with which we share strong values.” According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the DRC aims to develop cooperation in areas such as diplomacy, defense, environment, trade, culture, and new technologies. The delegation includes key government members: Defense Minister Guy Kabombo Mwadiamvita Environment Minister Eve Bazaiba Masudi Foreign Trade Minister Julien Paluku Kahongya Culture Minister Yolande Elebe Ma Ndembo Continue Reading Full Article DIPLOMACY DRC Launches Major Diplomatic Mission in Latin America By Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Political Analyst Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Home Comment Aug 6, 2025 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of the Congo has launched a high-level diplomatic mission to Latin America, led by Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner. As the DRC prepares to assume the Vice-Presidency of the 80th United Nations General Assembly and a seat on the UN Security Council for the 2026–2027 term, it is seeking to strengthen South-South partnerships and deepen ties with Latin American nations. The mission, which began on August 5, 2025, in Uruguay, is the first of its kind in over four decades. It includes planned visits to Argentina and Brazil and will continue until August 13. “This is not simply a symbolic diplomatic rapprochement, but a major and courageous political act,” said Minister Wagner. “Latin America is not a distant continent for the DRC. It is a space of strategic opportunities with which we share strong values.” ADVERTISEMENT According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the DRC aims to develop cooperation in areas such as diplomacy, defense, environment, trade, culture, and new technologies. The delegation includes key government members: Defense Minister Guy Kabombo Mwadiamvita Environment Minister Eve Bazaiba Masudi Foreign Trade Minister Julien Paluku Kahongya Culture Minister Yolande Elebe Ma Ndembo Senior Presidential Advisor Mbuyi Katharina Wagner In Montevideo, the group paid tribute to Uruguayan personnel who lost their lives while serving under MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC. A moment of silence was held at the General Command of the Uruguayan Army. ADVERTISEMENT “Their sacrifice for peace in the DRC is an act of courage that we will never forget,” said Minister Wagner during the ceremony. On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, the Congolese delegation was officially received by Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi in Montevideo. The delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Guy Kabombo Mwadianvita. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, personally delivered an official letter from President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo to her Uruguayan counterpart. President Orsi welcomed the Congolese mission and expressed strong support for the strengthening of bilateral ties, calling the signed agreements a symbol of lasting partnership rooted in mutual values. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation . ADVERTISEMENT “Uruguay is honored to strengthen its ties with the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said President Orsi. “These agreements are not only bilateral commitments, but a shared promise of cooperation, solidarity, and a common vision for a better future.” The diplomatic initiative is part of President Félix Tshisekedi’s broader foreign policy strategy to reposition the DRC as a regional leader and build stronger alliances across the Global South. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka has backed the mission as a key component of Congo's diplomatic redeployment. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health Lawmakers back four financing bills supporting entrepreneurs, primary education, maternal health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers DRC approves FGADEC, a national deposit-guarantee fund designed to protect eligible savings, . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll DRC plans to make salary inclusion a 2027 budget priority, aiming to progressively bring eligible . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure DRC plans more than $440 million in its 2027 budget for rural water, electricity and basic . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics DR.Congo DR.Congo DR Congo News DR Congo News

  • Congolese Group Files ICC Communication Naming Kagame, Kabila

    Front Uni pour la RDC says it filed an ICC communication naming Paul Kagame, Joseph Kabila and three AFC/M23 leaders over alleged crimes in eastern DRC. Front Uni pour la RDC says it submitted material to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court in The Hague naming Rwandan President Paul Kagame, former DRC president Joseph Kabila and three AFC/M23 leaders over alleged crimes committed in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. THE HAGUE, Netherlands — September 18, 2026 — A Belgium-based Congolese diaspora organization says it has submitted a dossier to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) naming Rwandan President Paul Kagame, former Congolese president Joseph Kabila, and AFC/M23 leaders Corneille Nangaa, Bertrand Bisimwa and Sultani Makenga in connection with alleged crimes in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The organization, Front Uni pour la RDC, says the material was delivered in The Hague on September 16, 2026. Congolese media began reporting the development the following day. Actu30 reported that the group described the alleged conduct as war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, including allegations involving massacres, torture, sexual violence, enforced disappearances and forced displacement. What Front Uni says it submitted According to Actu30 and other Congolese outlets that reported the filing, Front Uni says its dossier contains material concerning alleged abuses in several areas of eastern DRC, including Goma, Bukavu, Rutshuru, Masisi, Nyiragongo, Lubero, Walikale, Kalehe, Kabare and Walungu. The organization says it named Sultani Makenga in connection with the military leadership of M23, Bertrand Bisimwa in connection with M23's political leadership and Corneille Nangaa as leader of the Congo River Alliance, or AFC. Front Uni also accuses Paul Kagame of political and military support for the AFC/M23 coalition and alleges that Joseph Kabila played a supporting role. A filing to the ICC is not the same as an ICC case The legal status of the submission is important. Continue Reading Full Article JUSTICE & CRIME Congolese Group Files ICC Communication Naming Kagame, Kabila By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Sep 18, 2026 Sep 18, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Front Uni pour la RDC says it submitted material to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court in The Hague naming Rwandan President Paul Kagame, former DRC president Joseph Kabila and three AFC/M23 leaders over alleged crimes committed in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. THE HAGUE, Netherlands — September 18, 2026 — A Belgium-based Congolese diaspora organization says it has submitted a dossier to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) naming Rwandan President Paul Kagame, former Congolese president Joseph Kabila, and AFC/M23 leaders Corneille Nangaa, Bertrand Bisimwa and Sultani Makenga in connection with alleged crimes in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The organization, Front Uni pour la RDC, says the material was delivered in The Hague on September 16, 2026. Congolese media began reporting the development the following day. Actu30 reported that the group described the alleged conduct as war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, including allegations involving massacres, torture, sexual violence, enforced disappearances and forced displacement. What Front Uni says it submitted According to Actu30 and other Congolese outlets that reported the filing, Front Uni says its dossier contains material concerning alleged abuses in several areas of eastern DRC, including Goma, Bukavu, Rutshuru, Masisi, Nyiragongo, Lubero, Walikale, Kalehe, Kabare and Walungu. The organization says it named Sultani Makenga in connection with the military leadership of M23, Bertrand Bisimwa in connection with M23's political leadership and Corneille Nangaa as leader of the Congo River Alliance, or AFC. Front Uni also accuses Paul Kagame of political and military support for the AFC/M23 coalition and alleges that Joseph Kabila played a supporting role. ADVERTISEMENT A filing to the ICC is not the same as an ICC case The legal status of the submission is important. Congolese reports have commonly described the move as a "complaint" or plainte . Under ICC procedure, however, individuals, groups and non-governmental organizations may submit information about alleged crimes to the Prosecutor under Article 15 of the Rome Statute. The ICC's own Office of the Prosecutor submission portal explains that any individual, group, state, intergovernmental organization or NGO may provide such information. These submissions are commonly referred to as Article 15 communications. The Prosecutor then assesses the information to determine whether it concerns conduct within the Court's jurisdiction, whether it relates to an existing situation or investigation and whether further analysis is warranted. As of publication, the ICC has not publicly announced what action, if any, it will take in response to Front Uni's filing. Delegation also held a sit-in outside the Court Actu30 reported that after delivering the material, members of the Front Uni delegation held a sit-in outside the ICC headquarters in The Hague. A statement was reportedly read by Sonny Kabeya Mukanya, identified by the organization as its secretary-general. ADVERTISEMENT Front Uni also called on Congolese authorities to strengthen cooperation with the ICC and support international judicial examination of alleged crimes committed in eastern DRC. Who is Front Uni pour la RDC? Front Uni pour la RDC describes itself as a Congolese diaspora organization founded in Belgium and active across the Benelux and other Francophone Congolese communities. Its official website identifies the group as a non-profit association focused on sovereignty, civilian protection, international advocacy, justice and combating impunity. The organization says one of its core priorities is documenting alleged crimes against civilians and advocating before international institutions. Its public activities have included advocacy in European institutions, political discussions within the diaspora and assistance to families of Congolese soldiers and wounded military personnel. ICC already has a long-running DRC situation The new communication arrives against the background of the ICC's longstanding work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is one of the Court's longest-running investigations. The ICC has previously prosecuted individuals including Thomas Lubanga, Germain Katanga and Bosco Ntaganda for crimes connected to conflicts in the country. 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 . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu . Diplomacy Tshisekedi, Putin Seal Three DRC- Russia Cooperation Deals . ADVERTISEMENT The Office of the Prosecutor has also said that alleged crimes within the scope of the DRC situation have continued to be reported and that it has worked with Congolese authorities on accountability for international crimes. In its Policy on Complementarity and Cooperation , the Prosecutor's office described the DRC as one of the Court's longest-open investigations and noted ongoing work concerning alleged crimes and cooperation with national authorities. Whether the information submitted by Front Uni becomes relevant to an existing ICC investigation, triggers further analysis or leads to no further action will depend on the Prosecutor's assessment. What happens next The immediate next step lies with the Office of the Prosecutor. Under Article 15 procedures, prosecutors may screen the material, compare it with information already in their possession and determine whether it falls within the Court's jurisdiction or an existing investigative framework. There is no automatic timetable for a public response to an Article 15 communication. Front Uni says it wants the allegations examined as part of wider efforts to end impunity for violence in eastern Congo. Whether the submission produces any formal ICC action remains to be seen. 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 . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA Trump plans to remove Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA trade benefits starting January 1, 2027 . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu South Kivu accuses Rwandan forces and M23 of forcibly displacing civilians in Katogota, . Tags DRC Conflict & Security DRC Conflict & Security DR.Congo DR.Congo Peace For DRC Now Peace For DRC Now Featured News Featured News

  • Chella Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & My Darling Rise

    Explore Chella's biography, age, real name, Abuja and Abia roots, “My Darling” breakthrough, songs, *Chella Chant* EP and growing Afrobeats career. Chella is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer whose playful melodies, emotional turns and eccentric visual language have made him one of Afrobeats' most distinctive recent arrivals. Born Uzochukwu Michael Ikechukwu in Abuja and rooted in Abia State, he moved through several Nigerian cities before taking his music online. “Nyash Na Nyash” introduced his humour-driven style in 2024, but “My Darling” transformed his reach in 2025, topping Nigeria's official singles chart and the global Shazam chart. He shares current releases through his official X account , while his verified XTRAfrica songs page gathers music and downloads. Who is Chella? Chella is the stage name of Uzochukwu Michael Ikechukwu, a Nigerian Afrofusion singer from Abuja with roots in Abia State. He rose through “Nyash Na Nyash” before “My Darling” became a Nigerian No. 1 and global Shazam leader, establishing his melody-led, visually playful approach. “Sweet melody” as sound, craft and signature Chella's music works through contrast. A phrase may sound comic on first contact, then reveal insecurity, loneliness or romantic strain underneath. His singing is light and elastic, but the writing often moves between joy and melancholy. The repeated “sweet melody” tag identifies him before a verse begins, functioning as both vocal signature and creative promise. In a detailed Guardian Music interview , Chella described his sound without trying to force it into a narrow category: “It’s a sweet melody mixed with vibe, emotions, and melodies.” His process begins with rhythm. He listens for a beat that creates space for instinct, then follows the mood rather than writing to a fixed genre formula. That helps explain why his catalogue can touch highlife melody, dancehall, Afro-R&B, amapiano, pop and street-facing Afrobeats without losing its centre. The visual craft is equally important. Early street freestyles paired eccentric clothing with an intentionally unsettled persona. Later videos developed a Chaplin-like figure whose awkward movement and expressive face could carry humour and sadness at once. The image is not simply costume; it gives physical form to songs about desire, confusion and survival. Creative roots across Abuja, Abia, Benue and Onitsha Continue Reading Full Article BIOGRAPHY Chella Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & My Darling Rise By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Aug 20, 2026 Aug 20, 2026 12 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Chella is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer whose playful melodies, emotional turns and eccentric visual language have made him one of Afrobeats' most distinctive recent arrivals. Born Uzochukwu Michael Ikechukwu in Abuja and rooted in Abia State, he moved through several Nigerian cities before taking his music online. “Nyash Na Nyash” introduced his humour-driven style in 2024, but “My Darling” transformed his reach in 2025, topping Nigeria's official singles chart and the global Shazam chart. He shares current releases through his official X account , while his verified XTRAfrica songs page gathers music and downloads. Who is Chella? Chella is the stage name of Uzochukwu Michael Ikechukwu, a Nigerian Afrofusion singer from Abuja with roots in Abia State. He rose through “Nyash Na Nyash” before “My Darling” became a Nigerian No. 1 and global Shazam leader, establishing his melody-led, visually playful approach. “Sweet melody” as sound, craft and signature Chella's music works through contrast. A phrase may sound comic on first contact, then reveal insecurity, loneliness or romantic strain underneath. His singing is light and elastic, but the writing often moves between joy and melancholy. The repeated “sweet melody” tag identifies him before a verse begins, functioning as both vocal signature and creative promise. In a detailed Guardian Music interview , Chella described his sound without trying to force it into a narrow category: “It’s a sweet melody mixed with vibe, emotions, and melodies.” His process begins with rhythm. He listens for a beat that creates space for instinct, then follows the mood rather than writing to a fixed genre formula. That helps explain why his catalogue can touch highlife melody, dancehall, Afro-R&B, amapiano, pop and street-facing Afrobeats without losing its centre. The visual craft is equally important. Early street freestyles paired eccentric clothing with an intentionally unsettled persona. Later videos developed a Chaplin-like figure whose awkward movement and expressive face could carry humour and sadness at once. The image is not simply costume; it gives physical form to songs about desire, confusion and survival. Creative roots across Abuja, Abia, Benue and Onitsha Chella was born in Abuja on 9 July 2000. His age is 26 as of 20 August 2026. His real name appears in release credits as Uzochukwu Michael Ikechukwu, although he explained that family members commonly called him Michael or Mitchell. “Chella” came from shortening Mitchell and adding an “a.” His childhood was geographically mobile. He told the Guardian that he left Abuja for his family's hometown in Abia, later lived in Benue and Onitsha, and eventually returned to Abuja. Each place added experience, but Abuja became especially important because its competitions exposed him to other singers and rappers. Music began before the professional releases. Chella recorded “Toxic Feelings” in Abuja for a singing and rap competition, then practised through covers. Competitions could motivate and discourage him at the same time; eventually, he concluded that waiting for judges was limiting his route. His education continued alongside music. A Nigerian Tribune profile reported that he earned a bachelor's degree from Abia State University while developing his performance identity. The decisive change was strategic: “I knew I had to go online.” That choice connected his eccentric presentation, short-form performance and memorable melodic phrases to an audience beyond any single competition room. ADVERTISEMENT Breakthrough: from “Nyash Na Nyash” to “My Darling” “Nyash Na Nyash,” released in April 2024, was Chella's first verified professional breakthrough. Its cheeky title, direct phrasing and danceable rhythm gave listeners an immediate character to recognise. THISDAY's account of the song's rise traced how the record found a second wave of attention as new listeners discovered it online. A Young Jonn-assisted remix expanded its reach later that year. The debut EP Tears of a Mad Man placed the humour inside a broader emotional frame. Tracks including “Wahala” and “Iweriwe Love” dealt with strain, affection and instability without abandoning accessible hooks. XTRAfrica's “Wahala” page shows how the catalogue could hold betrayal and resilience beside club-friendly production. “My Darling,” released on 26 March 2025, changed the scale again. Chella built the song around mixed feelings: a relationship question that could sound tender, worried and danceable within the same two minutes. The track's short-form appeal translated into search and listening activity rather than remaining a temporary meme. Pulse Nigeria reported that it reached No. 1 on Shazam's global chart in April. The stronger measure at home came from TurnTable Charts . “My Darling” climbed to No. 1 on the Official Nigeria Top 100 with 2.83 million on-demand streams and 33.7 million radio impressions during the tracking week. It was Chella's first No. 1 and evidence that online discovery had crossed into nationwide consumption. Abia roots, Nigerian language and artistic identity Chella's identity is Nigerian and connected to Abia State, but his upbringing was not confined to one hometown. Moving among Abuja, Abia, Benue and Onitsha gave him a vocabulary shaped by different urban and regional environments. His songs use English, Nigerian Pidgin and Igbo phrases, allowing humour and emotion to move at different speeds. It would be inaccurate to treat the local-language elements as decoration. The sound of a phrase can become part of the percussion, while its cultural familiarity deepens the joke or emotional turn for listeners who understand it. At the same time, the hooks remain open enough to travel beyond Nigeria. That balance places Chella within XTRAfrica's wider Afrobeats catalogue and its Nigerian music hub , but his work resists the idea that current Afropop must be polished into one international template. The strange clothing, bent posture, sudden chants and melody-first writing keep the work deliberately personal. Personal journey: discouragement, solitude and attachment to music Chella's rapid public rise came after a longer private attachment to music. He says he had wanted to make songs since childhood, even when he could not trace the desire to one event. Competition losses tested his confidence, while moving between cities repeatedly required him to restart his creative circle. Rather than present himself as endlessly confident, he allows uncertainty into the music. “My Darling” grew from a scenario involving a partner's insecurity. Tears of a Mad Man made emotional instability part of its central image, and CHELLA CHANT later placed solidarity, love, temptation and distress beside energetic production. Music also occupies his private time. In the same 2025 interview, Chella explained that he prefers solitude and listening to other people create: “I feel addicted to music.” ADVERTISEMENT That statement helps make sense of the range in his catalogue. Experiment is not a campaign slogan for him; it is the result of spending most of his attention inside sound. Key events in Chella's career timeline Year Event Significance 2024 Released “Nyash Na Nyash” Established his humour, melody and visual persona online 2024 Released Tears of a Mad Man and joined Apple Music Up Next Nigeria Expanded one viral song into a recognisable artistic identity 2025 “My Darling” topped Nigeria's official chart and the global Shazam chart Turned digital discovery into national and international reach 2025 Released the pan-African My Darling remix pack Connected the song with Diamond Platnumz, Zee Nxumalo, Not3s and Tawsen 2025 Released CHELLA CHANT Broadened his palette through amapiano, punk and Jersey club influences 2026 Released “JIGGLE” Continued the dance-driven direction after his breakthrough year CHELLA CHANT , achievements and a wider African reach The My Darling remix EP translated one Nigerian hit into several markets. Diamond Platnumz joined “Mpenzi Wangu,” Zee Nxumalo appeared on “uDali Wami,” Not3s brought a UK connection, and Tawsen extended the record toward Francophone and North African listeners. The collaborations supported Chella's stated goal of making non-Nigerian audiences connect with his phrasing rather than replacing it. Released on 27 November 2025, CHELLA CHANT became his second EP. Apple Music's editorial notes describe a seven-song project drawing on amapiano, punk and Jersey club alongside Afrobeats. Its title track turns community into a dance-floor call, while “Loyal,” “Sweater” and “Shameless Devil” move between affection and personal pressure. The project had accumulated 61.7 million plays on Chella's official Audiomack upload by August 2026. Verified achievements include: Apple Music Up Next Nigeria selection in October 2024. No. 1 on the Official Nigeria Top 100 with “My Darling” in April 2025. No. 1 on Shazam's global chart with “My Darling.” “My Darling” at No. 19 on TikTok's global year-end songs list for 2025. A place for the “My Darling” video in XTRAfrica's report on Nigeria's leading YouTube music videos of 2025 . No major competitive award win was verified as of August 2026, so chart and platform recognition should not be mislabelled as trophies. Chella's emerging impact Chella's emerging impact lies in proving that unusual presentation can support rather than obstruct popular reach. His visual persona is comic without making the music disposable; his melodies are simple without removing emotional tension. That combination gives audiences several entry points: a dance, a catchphrase, a facial expression or a relationship feeling. His Spotify profile displayed 1,951,809 monthly listeners in August 2026. The figure will change, but it shows that “My Darling” created an audience large enough to test follow-up ideas. His position also reflects a wider shift in Nigerian music: artists can build a public language through short video first, then prove its durability through radio, charts, projects and collaborations. What comes next after “JIGGLE” Chella's latest verified solo single is “JIGGLE,” released on 26 June 2026 through Chella Music/222 Ent. Apple Music's artist page places it at the front of a catalogue that now includes two EPs, remixes and cross-border features. His stated future direction is fusion rather than repetition. He has discussed introducing chants and developing a style that moves between rapping and singing. That ambition matches the steps already taken on CHELLA CHANT and “JIGGLE.” He summarised the larger goal in the Guardian interview: “I am taking it global, bringing my vibe to non-Nigerians.” The challenge now is not recreating “My Darling.” It is turning the freedom created by that hit into a catalogue whose strange, melodic and emotional qualities remain recognisably his. 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 Technology and Innovation Mauritius, South Africa, Nigeria Clear Youth AI Benchmark . Business Trends Lwazi Bam Named to MTN Nigeria Board From 1 December . | Appointments Dapo Akande Elected ICJ Judge: UK-Nigerian Lawyer's 2026 Win . Biography Dapo Akande Biography: Nigerian-British Lawyer Elected to ICJ . Energy and Power Africa Energy Bank Explained: Funding, Purpose and Projects . ADVERTISEMENT Frequently asked questions about Chella What is Chella's real name? Chella's real name is Uzochukwu Michael Ikechukwu. His stage name grew from Michael or Mitchell, names used for him within his family. How old is Chella? Chella is 26 years old as of 20 August 2026. He was born on 9 July 2000. Where was Chella born? He was born in Abuja, Nigeria. His family roots are in Abia State, and he also spent parts of his childhood in Benue and Onitsha. Is Chella Nigerian? Yes. Chella is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer. What song made Chella famous? “Nyash Na Nyash” introduced him to a broad online audience in 2024. “My Darling” produced his larger national and international breakthrough in 2025. Did “My Darling” reach No. 1? Yes. It reached No. 1 on both the Official Nigeria Top 100 and Shazam's global chart in April 2025. What genre does Chella make? His music blends Afrofusion, Afrobeats, Afro-R&B and Afro-pop, with influences from highlife, dancehall, amapiano, punk and Jersey club. Does Chella have an album? Chella has not released a full-length studio album. His verified EPs are Tears of a Mad Man (2024) and CHELLA CHANT (2025). What are Chella's biggest songs? His best-known tracks include “My Darling,” “Nyash Na Nyash,” “Loyal,” “Wahala,” “Iweriwe Love,” “CHELLA CHANT” and “JIGGLE.” What is Chella's latest song? His latest verified solo release is “JIGGLE,” issued in June 2026. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Technology and Innovation Mauritius, South Africa, Nigeria Clear Youth AI Benchmark Only three African Commonwealth countries meet the new 53-point readiness line . Business Trends Lwazi Bam Named to MTN Nigeria Board From 1 December MTN Group's chief risk officer joins four other appointees in a November board announcement. . | Appointments Dapo Akande Elected ICJ Judge: UK-Nigerian Lawyer's 2026 Win Oxford professor Dapo Akande wins a nine-year ICJ term as Britain returns to the World Court. . Biography Dapo Akande Biography: Nigerian-British Lawyer Elected to ICJ Dapo Akande’s Nigerian education, Oxford career, international cases and 2026 ICJ election. . Tags Nigeria Nigeria Chella Chella

  • How to Tour the Namib Desert Like a Local (Angola Side)

    Explore Angola’s Namib Desert like a local in 2025: eco-tours, tribal encounters, stargazing, wild camping, and off-grid adventures from Namibe to Iona. If you think Namibia has a monopoly on epic dunes and desert adventures, think again. Angola’s slice of the Namib Desert is the cool secret spot only the savviest locals know about. Stretching along Angola’s southwest coast, this ancient desert is an untouched gem where you can roam empty golden dunes, encounter nomadic tribes, and camp under a billion stars with zero light pollution. In fact, Angola is just now emerging on travelers’ radars as “Africa’s untouched gem” even CNN hopped on the bandwagon in 2025, highlighting how off-grid and special this place is . Touring the Namib Desert from the Angola side means adventure with an insider twist : you’ll do it the local way, with local people, and on local turf that few outsiders have seen. Ready to ditch the tourist convoy and become an eco-tourist explorer? Here’s how to experience Angola’s Namib like a true local (with a dash of comfort and plenty of wit). 1. Hire Local Guides to Unlock Iona’s Secrets The Iona National Park is Angola’s portion of the Namib Desert a sprawling wilderness of dunes, mountains, and surreal landscapes so remote that road signs basically say “good luck” . To truly unlock Iona’s secrets, team up with a local guide or community-run tour. Trust us: you’ll need a 4x4 . Local guides know the shifting sands like their backyard, from the safest river crossings to the hidden waterholes where desert oryx and springboks graze . They’ll help you find Lion’s Cave, track elusive desert elephants, and navigate by the stars if needed all while regaling you with local lore in Portuguese (with some laughs in between). “Iona, Angola… you are harsh but damn beautiful,” one overlander quipped after tackling the park’s trails, marveling at how much a knowledgeable guide can reveal. Price: Entry to Iona is about 5,000 Kz (~$6) per person plus 4,000 Kz (~$5) per vehicle a small price to pay for traversing a land that feels like Mars on Earth. Multi-day guided safaris aren’t cheap (an 8-day southern Angola adventure runs around $3,200 (≈2.6 million Kz) per person ), but every dollar supports local communities and makes your journey safer and richer. Local tip: Go with guides who grew up in Namibe province. They not only know every dune and coastal tide schedule, but often are part of desert communities themselves. In one 2025 journey, park manager Pedro Monterosso (a Namibe native) and driver Mauro expertly guided visitors across Iona’s tricky coastal flats and roaring dunes , timing the route with the rare low tides . Continue Reading Full Article TRAVEL TIPS How to Tour the Namib Desert Like a Local (Angola Side) By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Dec 20, 2025 May 15, 2026 16 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: If you think Namibia has a monopoly on epic dunes and desert adventures, think again. Angola’s slice of the Namib Desert is the cool secret spot only the savviest locals know about. Stretching along Angola’s southwest coast, this ancient desert is an untouched gem where you can roam empty golden dunes, encounter nomadic tribes, and camp under a billion stars with zero light pollution. In fact, Angola is just now emerging on travelers’ radars as “Africa’s untouched gem” even CNN hopped on the bandwagon in 2025, highlighting how off-grid and special this place is . Touring the Namib Desert from the Angola side means adventure with an insider twist : you’ll do it the local way, with local people, and on local turf that few outsiders have seen. Ready to ditch the tourist convoy and become an eco-tourist explorer? Here’s how to experience Angola’s Namib like a true local (with a dash of comfort and plenty of wit). 1. Hire Local Guides to Unlock Iona’s Secrets The Iona National Park is Angola’s portion of the Namib Desert a sprawling wilderness of dunes, mountains, and surreal landscapes so remote that road signs basically say “good luck” . To truly unlock Iona’s secrets, team up with a local guide or community-run tour. Trust us: you’ll need a 4x4 . Local guides know the shifting sands like their backyard, from the safest river crossings to the hidden waterholes where desert oryx and springboks graze . They’ll help you find Lion’s Cave, track elusive desert elephants, and navigate by the stars if needed all while regaling you with local lore in Portuguese (with some laughs in between). “Iona, Angola… you are harsh but damn beautiful,” one overlander quipped after tackling the park’s trails, marveling at how much a knowledgeable guide can reveal. Price: Entry to Iona is about 5,000 Kz (~$6) per person plus 4,000 Kz (~$5) per vehicle a small price to pay for traversing a land that feels like Mars on Earth. Multi-day guided safaris aren’t cheap (an 8-day southern Angola adventure runs around $3,200 (≈2.6 million Kz) per person ), but every dollar supports local communities and makes your journey safer and richer. Local tip: Go with guides who grew up in Namibe province. They not only know every dune and coastal tide schedule, but often are part of desert communities themselves. In one 2025 journey, park manager Pedro Monterosso (a Namibe native) and driver Mauro expertly guided visitors across Iona’s tricky coastal flats and roaring dunes , timing the route with the rare low tides . That kind of desert savvy only comes from living there! Plus, local guides can translate when you meet villagers and ensure your visit respects local customs. Angola’s tourism is still very young “this is not a country prepared for tourism,” one traveler noted so having an insider by your side is priceless. You’ll get you to the coolest spots safely (and maybe even be invited to a home-brewed beer by your guide’s family afterward). In short, hiring a local expert turns a daunting desert into an open-air playground. Insider vibe: You’re not just a tourist; you’re a guest in their backyard, so listen and learn. By trip’s end, you’ll be swapping stories in broken Portuguese and high-fiving your guide as the Namib sun sets over the dunes agora somos família! (now we’re family). 2. Camp Where the Desert Meets the Atlantic Along Angola’s southwest coast, the Namib Desert spills directly into the Atlantic Ocean, creating one of Africa’s most dramatic and least explored camping landscapes. ADVERTISEMENT There’s roughing it, and then there’s camping on a beach where giant sand dunes plunge into the Atlantic Ocean Angolan style. Along the coast of Namibe province, the Namib Desert literally ends in the sea, creating a jaw-dropping collision of sand and surf. Locals and in-the-know adventurers love to set up camp here, falling asleep to ocean waves on one side and silent dunes on the other. One minute you’re sandboarding down a golden slope, the next you’re splashing in cold Atlantic waters talk about contrast! At spots like Baía dos Tigres, an eerie abandoned fishing village on an island cut off by shifting sands, you can wander ghost-town ruins and have a picnic where seagulls and jackals are your only company. And if you prefer a bit more structure, Flamingo Lodge is a legendary local hideaway on the desert coast: a rustic eco-lodge with nine bungalows and campsites perched above the beach. Here you’ll wake up to dolphins off the shore and flamingos in the lagoon, then enjoy fresh-caught fish for dinner on the porch as the sun sinks into the ocean. Price: Wild beach camping is blissfully free (just pack out everything!), but if you opt for Flamingo Lodge’s comfort, budget roughly $80 (≈65,000 Kz) per night for a bungalow with meals. Not bad for an unplugged paradise where your “front yard” is endless sand and sea. Local tip: Time your coastal adventures with the tides. Locals know that certain routes like the drive to Tigres Island or along remote beaches are only passable at low tide. They’ll deflate the 4x4’s tires (to float on soft sand) and follow the fishermen’s tracks. Tag along or hire a local driver if you’re unsure; getting stuck in quicksand-like salt flats is not on your to-do list. Also, bring layers! The Benguela Current makes desert nights chilly and foggy mornings common that means you might need a fleece after you’ve been sunbathing at noon. In the evening, crack open a cold Cuca beer (Angola’s favourite brew) or a ginguba (roasted peanut) snack around the campfire. There’s nothing like sipping a cerveja as the sky turns pink over the dunes as one traveler posted after a beach cookout, “You gotta love Angola! I call this lunch with a view Pro Max,” soaking in a scene of dunes meeting ocean on Instagram. Indeed, the serene beauty of Namibe’s desert meeting the waves will make you pinch yourself and probably inspire a poetic social media post of your own. Just remember to tag it #NoFilter because honestly, nature already did the filtering for you . 3. Experience Nomadic Life with Desert Tribes Communities such as the Mucubal and Himba continue to practice semi-nomadic traditions in southern Angola, maintaining deep cultural ties to the desert environment. Touring the Namib like a local isn’t just about landscapes it’s about the people who call this desert home. In the far southwest of Angola, you’ll encounter semi-nomadic tribes like the Mucubal (Mucubai) and Himba who have thrived here for centuries. Visiting a desert village is like stepping into a living museum (minus the glass cases): you’ll see Mucubal women wearing their traditional ompota headdresses and stunning ochre body paint, and Himba families tending cattle and cooking over open fires, much as their ancestors did. This isn’t a packaged “cultural show” it’s real life. In fact, north of the Cunene River (which separates Angola from Namibia), Himba communities are “hardly discovered” by tourism and remain incredibly authentic . You might arrive at a homestead at milking time or during a casual afternoon, and be welcomed with shy smiles, curious stares, and eventually warm laughter once ice is broken. Local guides are crucial here to translate and ensure both you and your hosts feel at ease. Don’t be surprised if a Himba matriarch sizes you up, then decides to smear a bit of red ochre paste on your arm a friendly blessing from a culture that sees beauty in rich earthy red. Price: Be prepared to pay a community visit fee (often about 3,000–5,000 Kz (~$4-6) per group) or bring small gifts like salt, sugar, or useful goods. It’s a respectful way to support the community and say obrigado for their time. Hiring a translator or local fixer may cost around $50 (≈41,000 Kz) for a day, but it’s worth every penny for an enriching cross-cultural encounter. ADVERTISEMENT Local tip: Respect and patience are the name of the game. Desert tribes may live far from modern cities, but they’re nobody’s tourist props they’re proud people with deep knowledge of the land. Approach with a learning mindset: ask before snapping photos (your guide can help ask in local dialect), and don’t be offended if not everyone is eager to meet you. Often, starting simple helps: try a few words of Portuguese (many locals speak some due to Angola’s official language) or even a local greeting (like “Moro” in Oshiwambo, spoken by some groups). Showing interest in their daily tasks whether it’s goat herding, crafting jewelry from ostrich eggshell, or styling that intricate ochre hairstyle will lead to more genuine interactions than treating it like a zoo. One traveler from 2025 recalled sharing millet porridge under a tree with a Mucawal clan, communicating through smiles and hand gestures a humble moment far richer than any staged tourist village. Also, be ready for surprises: you could end up dancing to a traditional desert rhythm or learning to grind maize on a stone. Roll with it! By evening, you might camp nearby and fall asleep to the distant sound of tribal singing under the stars. These human connections fleeting but heartfelt are what “touring like a local” is all about. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of how these communities flourish in such a harsh environment, and perhaps a new friend or two (plus a few handmade bracelets to remember them by). 4. Chase Ancient Wonders Hidden in the Sands When locals tour their own desert, they don’t rush from dune to dune they know the Namib is full of ancient wonders waiting quietly off the main track. Take some time to seek out the desert’s subtle but mind-blowing attractions that most tourists miss. One must-see is the Welwitschia mirabilis, a freaky-looking plant that’s basically a living fossil. With just two leaves that grow continuously and tangle upon themselves, welwitschias can live for well over 1,000 years in the Namib’s harsh climate . The Welwitschia mirabilis, a plant species found in the Namib Desert, can survive for over a thousand years, making it one of the world’s oldest living plants. Angolans are so proud of this resilient plant that they even named a sports arena after it! Spotting a giant welwitschia (some are 1.5 meters tall and over 3 meters wide) in Angola’s Namibe province is like meeting a wise old desert guardian. Ask your guide or a park ranger to show you a cluster – they’re often found in dry riverbeds or rocky plains. It’s humbling to stand next to a plant that germinated around the time of the Middle Ages and is still kicking today, thanks to fog and a “never say die” attitude. Local tip: Please don’t touch or trample these plants they’re endangered and slow-growing. Marvel from a respectful distance, and you’ll get all the good vibes knowing these green grandpas appreciate it. 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 Travel Tips 6 most known rivers of Angola and how to actually experience them . Luxury Travel 8 Best Spots to Watch Movies in Luanda 2026 . Travel Tips How to Tour the Namib Desert Like a Local (Angola Side) . Food and Travel Top 6 Public Libraries in Luanda (City & Suburbs) 2026 . Luxury Travel Top 8 Festivals and Events Celebrated in Luanda, Angola . ADVERTISEMENT 5. Sleep Under a Million Stars for the Full Experience With virtually no light pollution, nights in Angola’s Namib Desert reveal expansive views of the Milky Way and some of the clearest night skies in southern Africa Finally, to tour the Namib Desert like a local, you must spend a night (or three) under its starry skies. City folk in Luanda will tell you: even they dream of escaping to the desert for the clearest Milky Way views and tranquil nights. When you camp out here, the silence is so deep you can hear your own heartbeat literally nothing but perhaps a faint desert breeze. ( “When’s the last time you heard… nothing?” one amazed adventurer marveled amid Angola’s Curoca Red Rocks .) As the sun sets, the sand cools and an absurd number of stars pop out. With zero light pollution, the Namib night sky looks like a planetarium on steroids you’ll see constellations you didn’t know existed. Locals often forego tents entirely on dry nights, preferring to lay a mat on a dune and sleep in the open, a practice called “dune bedding.” If you’re not keen on sharing your bedroll with beetles, by all means use a tent… but do step out in the middle of the night and look up. You might catch the Magellanic Clouds (dwarf galaxies visible in the Southern Hemisphere) or a shooting star zipping across Orion’s Belt. Price: Desert camping is typically low-cost or free. In Iona National Park, there are a few designated campsites where rangers might charge a token fee (say, 2,000–5,000 Kz, ~$3-6 per night). Otherwise, if wild camping on the fly, it’s just you and Mother Nature’s hotel the “million-star accommodation” as locals joke. Local tip: Be prepared for extreme conditions at night. The same desert that hits 40°C (104°F) by day can drop to below 10°C (50°F) by late night. Do as locals do: bring layers, a wool hat, and sip some caporoto (a homemade distilled spirit) for a bit of warmth if you’re feeling brave. Also, position your camp on high ground away from dry riverbeds flash floods are rare but not impossible if there were rains in distant mountains. Before you sleep, take a moment to absorb the surreal silence and the glow of the dunes under moonlight. It’s in these moments that the magic of the Namib really sinks in. You’ll understand why so many travelers come back from Angola absolutely enchanted . One influencer recently wrote, “UNBELIEVABLE… Angola deserves more recognition as a tourism destination!” and it’s on these starry nights that you’ll wholeheartedly agree. In the morning, you might even wake to tiny desert geckos skittering around your campsite or the soft footprints of an overnight jackal visitor. Rather than an alarm clock, it’s the first light of dawn painting the dunes that gently rouses you a natural wake-up call no five-star resort can match. Pack up your tent, shake the sand out of your shoes, and get ready for another day of desert adventure, local-style. Touring the Namib Desert from Angola’s side is about immersing yourself in an experience that’s equal parts rugged and soulful. You’ll return with red dust in your backpack, perhaps a sunburned nose, and definitely a changed outlook on what “travel” means. In Angola’s Namib, there are no tourist crowds or fancy gift shops just welcoming locals, ancient landscapes, and genuine encounters. Remember to greet people with a friendly “Olá” , support local businesses (that roadside grilled goat meat or bag of ginguba peanuts goes a long way), and leave every place as pristine as you found it. The desert has looked after the people here for millennia, and if you tour it with respect and curiosity, it will look after you too. As the Angolans say, “Quem come da terra, da terra tem vida” who eats from the earth, from the earth has life. Treat the Namib Desert like the life-giving wonder it is, and you’ll unlock travel moments that no algorithm or guidebook could ever dream up. Enjoy the journey, vá com Deus (go with God)… and don’t forget to brag to your friends that you experienced the Namib Desert the true local way barefoot, star-struck, and grinning from ear to ear. Safe travels and até à próxima (until next time)! ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Travel Tips 6 most known rivers of Angola and how to actually experience them From the Kwanza to the Zambezi, discover Angola’s most famous rivers and how to explore them . Luxury Travel 8 Best Spots to Watch Movies in Luanda 2026 Luanda’s luxe movie spots, from 4DX thrills to velvet VIP lounges your 2026 cinema guide is here. . Travel Tips How to Tour the Namib Desert Like a Local (Angola Side) Tour Angola’s wild side: desert tribes, starlit dunes, and eco-adventures few tourists ever reach. . Food and Travel Top 6 Public Libraries in Luanda (City & Suburbs) 2026 From grand archives to under-bridge gems, Luanda’s libraries are where the city’s soul shelves itself. . Tags Travel Blog Travel Blog Angola Angola travel abroad travel abroad Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism Travel Blog Travel Blog Travel Africa Travel Africa

  • Mzbel Says ‘666’ Already Exists Through Internet and Technology

    Mzbel argues the biblical “number of the beast” already exists through smartphones, the internet, and digital platforms. Ghanaian musician and entrepreneur Belinda Nana Ekua Amoah , widely known as Mzbel, has shared her interpretation of the biblical “number of the beast,” stating that she believes it is already present in everyday life through modern technology. In an interview with blogger Zion Felix , Mzbel said the widely referenced number 666 should not be viewed as a future occurrence but as something embedded in tools people use daily, particularly smartphones and internet services. According to the artist, reliance on digital technology places users within systems often associated with spiritual symbolism and prophecy. She argued that individuals who regularly use the internet and mobile devices have, in her view, already accepted what many fear as the “mark of the beast.” Mzbel explained that she sees modern life as deeply interconnected with spirituality, extending beyond religion into technology, media, and financial systems. She suggested that devices such as phones, televisions, and digital payment platforms are not spiritually neutral and influence how people interact and live. The musician also noted that it has become increasingly difficult for people to function without these technologies, making participation in digital systems almost unavoidable in contemporary society. When asked whether she personally identified with the symbolism she described, Mzbel responded humorously, saying she could be considered an “ambassador” because of her constant dependence on internet access, which she described as a reality for many people today. She further discussed the spiritual implications of digital music platforms such as Spotify and iTunes, claiming that these services extend beyond business transactions. According to her, musicians who distribute their work through such platforms are engaging in exchanges that go beyond the physical and financial. Mzbel’s remarks also align with her previously stated views on religion. She has openly distanced herself from Christianity in the past and reiterated that she has no plans to return, citing what she describes as inconsistencies between Christian teachings and practice. She said she finds greater alignment with African spirituality, which she believes better reflects her personal values. Source: The Ghana Report https://www.instagram.com/zionfelixdotcom/?hl=en Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Mzbel Says ‘666’ Already Exists Through Internet and Technology By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jan 11, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ghanaian musician and entrepreneur Belinda Nana Ekua Amoah , widely known as Mzbel, has shared her interpretation of the biblical “number of the beast,” stating that she believes it is already present in everyday life through modern technology. In an interview with blogger Zion Felix , Mzbel said the widely referenced number 666 should not be viewed as a future occurrence but as something embedded in tools people use daily, particularly smartphones and internet services. ADVERTISEMENT According to the artist, reliance on digital technology places users within systems often associated with spiritual symbolism and prophecy. She argued that individuals who regularly use the internet and mobile devices have, in her view, already accepted what many fear as the “mark of the beast.” Mzbel explained that she sees modern life as deeply interconnected with spirituality, extending beyond religion into technology, media, and financial systems. She suggested that devices such as phones, televisions, and digital payment platforms are not spiritually neutral and influence how people interact and live. The musician also noted that it has become increasingly difficult for people to function without these technologies, making participation in digital systems almost unavoidable in contemporary society. ADVERTISEMENT When asked whether she personally identified with the symbolism she described, Mzbel responded humorously, saying she could be considered an “ambassador” because of her constant dependence on internet access, which she described as a reality for many people today. She further discussed the spiritual implications of digital music platforms such as Spotify and iTunes, claiming that these services extend beyond business transactions. According to her, musicians who distribute their work through such platforms are engaging in exchanges that go beyond the physical and financial. Trending Now Jah Lead Targets Collaboration With Amakye Dede . Entertainment D-Black Says His Children Prefer Snapchat Chats . Entertainment Samini Urges Ghanaian Musicians to Learn from Nigeria . Entertainment Sarkodie Explains Why He Continues to Rap in Twi . 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 Mzbel’s remarks also align with her previously stated views on religion. She has openly distanced herself from Christianity in the past and reiterated that she has no plans to return, citing what she describes as inconsistencies between Christian teachings and practice. She said she finds greater alignment with African spirituality, which she believes better reflects her personal values. Source: The Ghana Report https://www.instagram.com/zionfelixdotcom/?hl=en ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Entertainment Yaw Darlington Says Music Is His Priority Over Marriage The Ghanaian singer says his focus on music leaves no room for marriage at age 26 . Entertainment Blakk Rasta Questions Delay in GH₵100m Lawsuit by Shatta Wale Broadcaster says no court summons received days after defamation suit was publicised . Entertainment Diana Hamilton Explains How “Aha Ye” Was Created With Elder Mireku Gospel singer says the worship song emerged during a live session in Koforidua . Entertainment Sarkodie Says Yaw Sarpong’s Music Strengthened His Faith Rapper pays tribute to late gospel pioneer following his death in Accra . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Ghanian Musics Ghanian Musics Ghana Ghana

  • When Will SASSA Pay You in July 2025? See Sassa Grants Dates Here

    SASSA July 2025 payment dates: Older persons (2 July), disability (3 July), children’s (4 July). Funds remain in accounts until needed SASSA has announced the payment dates for July 2025 grants, urging beneficiaries not to rush to withdraw cash on the first day, as funds will remain safely in their accounts until needed. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has released the official grant payment schedule for July 2025 , ensuring millions of South Africans can plan ahead for essential expenses. ✔ Older Person’s Grants: Payments start on Wednesday, 2 July 2025 . This includes any grants linked to these accounts. ✔ Disability Grants: Payments start on Thursday, 3 July 2025 . ✔ Children’s Grants: Payments start on Friday, 4 July 2025 . “There is no need to rush to withdraw cash on the first day. Once the money is in the account, it will remain there until it is needed,” SASSA emphasised. This reminder aims to reduce overcrowding at ATMs and pay points , keeping the collection process safer and more convenient. How to Apply for NSFAS Funding in South Africa – Simple Guide How to Register for DDD Webinars Online in South Africa SASSA reaffirmed its mission: “Paying the right social grant, to the right person, at the right time and place. NJALO!” Continue Reading Full Article SASSA PAYMENT DATES When Will SASSA Pay You in July 2025? See Sassa Grants Dates Here By Wilson Munezero Government Services & Opportunities Expert Wilson Munezero Home Comment Jul 1, 2025 Aug 21, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: SASSA has announced the payment dates for July 2025 grants, urging beneficiaries not to rush to withdraw cash on the first day, as funds will remain safely in their accounts until needed. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has released the official grant payment schedule for July 2025 , ensuring millions of South Africans can plan ahead for essential expenses. ✔ Older Person’s Grants: Payments start on Wednesday, 2 July 2025 . This includes any grants linked to these accounts. ✔ Disability Grants: Payments start on Thursday, 3 July 2025 . ✔ Children’s Grants: Payments start on Friday, 4 July 2025 . “There is no need to rush to withdraw cash on the first day. Once the money is in the account, it will remain there until it is needed,” SASSA emphasised. This reminder aims to reduce overcrowding at ATMs and pay points , keeping the collection process safer and more convenient. How to Apply for NSFAS Funding in South Africa – Simple Guide How to Register for DDD Webinars Online in South Africa ADVERTISEMENT SASSA reaffirmed its mission: “Paying the right social grant, to the right person, at the right time and place. NJALO!” Beneficiaries are encouraged to use online platforms for any grant-related queries and avoid rushing to collection points to ensure safety and ease of access for all. Latest SASSA Updates You Should Know 1. Grant Increases Effective From May 2025 As part of the R387.3 billion social grant budget for 2025/26, beneficiaries have received increased amounts since May: Old Age (60–74), Disability, Care Dependency: R2,315 Old Age (75+): R2,335 Foster Care: R1,250 (R50 increase) Child Support: R560 (R20 increase) These include a R90 increase in April 2025, plus an additional R10 increase set for October 2025 . 2. SRD Grant Extension The R350 SRD grant has been extended until March 2026 , with R33.6 billion allocated to support unemployed South Africans in 2025/26. ADVERTISEMENT 3. Postbank Black Card Transition The transition deadline to Postbank’s new Black Card ended in June 2025 . Beneficiaries who failed to migrate may struggle to access grants through old channels. They are advised to visit Postbank urgently to complete the card swap process . ⚠ Important Reminder: Postbank Black Card users cannot be served at Post Office branches and must use designated retailers or ATMs for transactions. SASSA emphasises: “There is no need to rush to withdraw cash on the first day. Once the money is in the account, it will remain there until needed.” Stay Informed Beneficiaries are encouraged to check SASSA online platforms for queries and avoid overcrowding at collection points for safety and convenience. ❓ SASSA July 2025 Grants FAQ ✅ Who qualifies for the Older Person’s Grant? Applicants must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees aged 60 years or older , not receiving another social grant, and must pass the means test. They must live in South Africa and not be cared for in a state institution. ✅ Who can get the Child Support Grant? The primary caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee living in South Africa with the child. The child must be under 18 , not cared for in a state institution, and applicants cannot apply for more than six non-biological children . 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 SASSA Payment Dates SASSA Change Banking Details Link: Official Guide . Government Policies SASSA SRD Status Check Using ID Number: How to Check . Government Policies How to Change SASSA SRD Banking Details Safely . Government Services SASSA Payment Dates for August 2026 . SASSA Payment Dates SASSA Status Check and SRD R370 Payment Dates 2026: Full Guide . ADVERTISEMENT ✅ Who qualifies for the Foster Child Grant? The foster parent must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee, living in South Africa with the child who has been legally placed under their care . ✅ What are the requirements for the Disability Grant? Applicants must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees aged 18 to 59 , with a medical assessment report (not older than 3 months) confirming the disability. They must pass the means test and not be cared for in a state institution or receiving another personal social grant. ✅ Who can receive the Care Dependency Grant? This is for caregivers of children under 18 with permanent, severe disabilities . Both must live in South Africa, and applicants must pass the means test. Children cared for in state institutions do not qualify. Foster parents’ income is not considered, and they can apply for both Foster Child and Care Dependency Grants for the same child. ✅ What is the Grant-in-Aid? It supports individuals already receiving Older Person’s, Disability, or War Veteran’s grants who need full-time care due to physical or mental disabilities. It cannot be applied for alone and will end if the main grant stops. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles SASSA Payment Dates SASSA Change Banking Details Link: Official Guide Use the official SASSA link to change your SRD banking details safely. Follow the steps and avoid . Government Policies SASSA SRD Status Check Using ID Number: How to Check Check your SASSA SRD status using your South African ID number and registered phone number. . Government Policies How to Change SASSA SRD Banking Details Safely Change your SASSA SRD banking details safely. See the official link, ownership rules. . Government Services SASSA Payment Dates for August 2026 Check confirmed SASSA payment dates, grant amounts and SRD status information for August 2026 . Tags SASSA Grant SASSA Grant South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services Vacancies in South Africa Vacancies in South Africa South Africans Students Portal South Africans Students Portal SASSA Grant SASSA Grant SASSA News SASSA News

  • A 74-year-old Ghanaian man, Nelson Shardey, who has lived in the UK for nearly 50 years, must wait another decade before the Home Office will allow him to stay permanently. Shardey, a retired newsagent from Wallasey in Wirral, believed he was recognized as British until 2019 when he discovered otherwise. Shardey first came to the UK in 1977 on a student visa to study accountancy but had to take various jobs after a coup in Ghana cut off his financial support. He worked in factories and eventually ran his own business, a newsagent called Nelson's News. He married twice, both times to British women, and raised two sons, both of whom have successful careers. Despite paying taxes and contributing to the community , including performing jury service and receiving a police bravery award in 2007, Shardey was told in 2019 that he was not British when he applied for a passport to visit Ghana following his mother's death. The Home Office instructed him to apply for the 10-year route to settlement, which costs about £7,000 plus an additional £10,500 for NHS access. Shardey, who is recovering from prostate cancer, cannot afford these fees and sees the process as unfair, given his long-term residence and contributions to the UK. An error in his initial application has reset the process, delaying his chance for permanent residency until he is 84. With the support of Nicola Burgess from the Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU), Shardey is taking the Home Office to court, arguing that his long residence and community contributions warrant an exception. His sons are crowdfunding to cover legal costs. The Home Office has declined to comment on the ongoing legal case. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 16, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A 74-year-old Ghanaian man, Nelson Shardey A 74-year-old Ghanaian man, Nelson Shardey, who has lived in the UK for nearly 50 years, must wait another decade before the Home Office will allow him to stay permanently. Shardey, a retired newsagent from Wallasey in Wirral, believed he was recognized as British until 2019 when he discovered otherwise. Shardey first came to the UK in 1977 on a student visa to study accountancy but had to take various jobs after a coup in Ghana cut off his financial support. He worked in factories and eventually ran his own business, a newsagent called Nelson's News. He married twice, both times to British women, and raised two sons, both of whom have successful careers. ADVERTISEMENT Despite paying taxes and contributing to the community , including performing jury service and receiving a police bravery award in 2007, Shardey was told in 2019 that he was not British when he applied for a passport to visit Ghana following his mother's death. The Home Office instructed him to apply for the 10-year route to settlement, which costs about £7,000 plus an additional £10,500 for NHS access. ADVERTISEMENT Shardey, who is recovering from prostate cancer, cannot afford these fees and sees the process as unfair, given his long-term residence and contributions to the UK. An error in his initial application has reset the process, delaying his chance for permanent residency until he is 84. With the support of Nicola Burgess from the Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU), Shardey is taking the Home Office to court, arguing that his long residence and community contributions warrant an exception. His sons are crowdfunding to cover legal costs. The Home Office has declined to comment on the ongoing legal case. 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

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