Discover six Kinshasa hotspots where beginners can learn Ndombolo in one night music, rhythm, and dance energy that defines Congo’s nightlife in 2025 Ndombolo isn’t just a dance it’s a cultural calling card. Born in the 1990s, the hip‑swaying offshoot of soukous mixes fast percussion, searing guitars and lyrical sass . A successful Ndombolo number builds to a joyous sebene where dancers shake and solicit in Kikongo (“ndombolo” means to ask or solicit ). It was banned in parts of Central Africa in the early 2000s for being too risqué , yet it remains the soundtrack of Kinshasa nights a city that lives in four‑four time. If you want to master its undulating moves in a single evening, these six venues mix live Congolese rhythms, rum, rooftop vibes and friendly locals who’ll happily show you a step or two. 1. ChaCha Bar Perched on the ninth floor of the old Forescom tower, this lounge is a long way from Matonge chaos. Two terraces one facing the Congo River, the other the glimmering city and mood lighting set the scene for flirty salsa‑cum‑ndombolo sessions on the dance floor. ChaCha Bar hosts 2025 “Paint & Vibes” nights where local instructors teach dance basics while you sip cocktails costing around CDF 30 000–36 000 (about  US$10‑12 ). Come early for the view, stay late for the moves. The bar’s menu mixes spicy bites with Kinois favourites like poulet mayo and grilled tilapia, making it an ideal warm‑up before a long night. There’s no cover charge, but reservations help when expats and fashion‑set locals descend around 9 pm. Dress is whatever you feel fabulous in denim and heels work just as well as a colourful pagne . Insider tip: order the signature mango mojito and ask the bartender about their favourite Ndombolo track; you’ll get a playlist and maybe a spontaneous demo. 2. La Crèche This unpretentious Matonge institution is the city’s seedy‑but‑magnificent musical heart . Housed on a rooftop terrace near the Victoire roundabout, La Crèche packs a live band that belts out rumba and Ndombolo classics at ear‑splitting volume locals joke that your ears will ring for days . Once the music starts, names are shouted to the band to request a beer or a song, and strangers pull each other into fast hip‑moves. Expect to spend about CDF 4 800 (≈US$2.20) on a local beer and a little more for rum cocktails . Unfortunately, La Crèche doesn’t have a public Instagram page, so soak up the in‑person vibe instead. Arrive by 10 pm to secure a plastic table; things peak after midnight when off‑duty musicians join and impromptu dance lessons erupt. There’s no cover, but tipping the band when they call your name is part of the ritual bring small CDF notes. La Crèche’s chaos can feel overwhelming, so pack ear plugs and a sense of humour. Order a plate of goat brochettes from the street vendor downstairs; the grease fuels the hip gyrations. Continue Reading Full Article TRAVEL GUIDE Where to learn ndombolo in one night: six Kinshasa spots By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Nov 6, 2025 May 15, 2026 10 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ndombolo isn’t just a dance it’s a cultural calling card. Born in the 1990s, the hip‑swaying offshoot of soukous mixes fast percussion, searing guitars and lyrical sass . A successful Ndombolo number builds to a joyous sebene where dancers shake and solicit in Kikongo (“ndombolo” means to ask or solicit ). It was banned in parts of Central Africa in the early 2000s for being too risqué , yet it remains the soundtrack of Kinshasa nights a city that lives in four‑four time. If you want to master its undulating moves in a single evening, these six venues mix live Congolese rhythms, rum, rooftop vibes and friendly locals who’ll happily show you a step or two. 1. ChaCha Bar Perched on the ninth floor of the old Forescom tower, this lounge is a long way from Matonge chaos. Two terraces one facing the Congo River, the other the glimmering city and mood lighting set the scene for flirty salsa‑cum‑ndombolo sessions on the dance floor. ChaCha Bar hosts 2025 “Paint & Vibes” nights where local instructors teach dance basics while you sip cocktails costing around CDF 30 000–36 000 (about  US$10‑12 ). Come early for the view, stay late for the moves. The bar’s menu mixes spicy bites with Kinois favourites like poulet mayo and grilled tilapia, making it an ideal warm‑up before a long night. There’s no cover charge, but reservations help when expats and fashion‑set locals descend around 9 pm. Dress is whatever you feel fabulous in denim and heels work just as well as a colourful pagne . Insider tip: order the signature mango mojito and ask the bartender about their favourite Ndombolo track; you’ll get a playlist and maybe a spontaneous demo. 2. La Crèche Drums, smoke, and sweat-lit smiles a full-body Ndombolo moment in Kinshasa, where rhythm isn’t played, it’s lived. This unpretentious Matonge institution is the city’s seedy‑but‑magnificent musical heart . Housed on a rooftop terrace near the Victoire roundabout, La Crèche packs a live band that belts out rumba and Ndombolo classics at ear‑splitting volume locals joke that your ears will ring for days . Once the music starts, names are shouted to the band to request a beer or a song, and strangers pull each other into fast hip‑moves. Expect to spend about CDF 4 800 (≈US$2.20) on a local beer and a little more for rum cocktails . Unfortunately, La Crèche doesn’t have a public Instagram page, so soak up the in‑person vibe instead. Arrive by 10 pm to secure a plastic table; things peak after midnight when off‑duty musicians join and impromptu dance lessons erupt. There’s no cover, but tipping the band when they call your name is part of the ritual bring small CDF notes. La Crèche’s chaos can feel overwhelming, so pack ear plugs and a sense of humour. Order a plate of goat brochettes from the street vendor downstairs; the grease fuels the hip gyrations. ADVERTISEMENT 3. Chez Ntemba Spotlights, sweat, and soul Kinshasa’s Ndombolo floor where every beat dares you to out-shine the DJ. Kinshasa’s most notorious club chain has outposts across Africa, but the original in Gombe is still the wildest. Chez Ntemba ’s trademark is Congolese rumba, and patrons flock after midnight to forget their worries over beers and local music until dawn . Local celebrities and mopao (big spenders) mingle, and the small catering service keeps grilled meat flowing . Drinks are mid‑range, domestic beers around CDF 4 800 (US$2.20) and cocktails from CDF 17 500 ( ≈US$8 ) . The club’s central dance floor is ringed by booths where patrons loosen up before venturing into the spotlight. Don’t bother arriving before midnight; the action only starts when the DJ drops rumba classics and segues into Ndombolo bangers. There’s often a small cover on weekends (around CDF 22 000, about US$10), but women sometimes get in free. Dress code: Fancy jeans and nice shoes; anything flashier will mark you as a touring diplomat. Tip the DJ with a small bill to hear your favourite track and watch the crowd go wild. 4. New Savanana Two glasses, one beat the calm before Kinshasa’s dance floor chaos kicks back in. Longtime Kinois still get misty‑eyed about this boulevard legend. New Savanana sits along Boulevard du 30 Juin and remains a meeting place where men and women dance under multicoloured lights . ADVERTISEMENT The hall is vast with a dance floor in the middle facing the bar; you can slip unnoticed into the swaying crowd and attempt hip‑isolations without judgement . Music leans Western think Afro‑house remixes and Beyoncé drawing expats and Kinshasa’s bourgeoisie . Drinks hover around CDF 4 800–10 000 (US$2‑4) for beer and local spirits . There’s a restaurant on the terrace and snacks at the bar , so you can refuel between dance rounds. The vibe varies: some nights are sweaty social mixers, others are calmer after‑work hangouts. Try attending on a Thursday when DJs sneak more Congolese classics into the playlist, and watch the floor erupt. Bring cash; card machines are unreliable. Pro tip: ladies, wear comfortable flats the glittering floor is deceptively slick after a few spilled Primus beers. 5. L’Atmosphère Tucked away near the upmarket Gombe district, L’Atmosphère is for purists who like their Ndombolo mixed with live instruments. A renowned venue blending traditional Congolese beats with modern tunes, it hosts live bands playing soukous, rumba and jazz . The crowd skews older think rum‑sipping uncles and elegant aunties but the atmosphere is warm and inclusive. Expect cocktails from around CDF 17 500 (about US$8) and imported beers closer to CDF 11 000 (US$5). For a taste of the vibe, follow their live‑music teasers on Instagram at L’Atmosphère often hosts dance workshops before the band takes the stage, so arrive by 8 pm to snag a seat and learn a few hip‑pop combinations. There’s usually no cover, but tipping musicians is customary. Go on a Friday when the sound system is at its crispest and the lead singer might bring dancers onstage for an impromptu Ndombolo contest. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Eco Tourism DRC Begins Major Rebuild of Kinshasa Zoo . Food and Travel 10 Best Shopping Malls in Kinshasa 2026 . Travel Guide Top 10 Family Friendly Spots in Kinshasa . Travel Guide Top 10 Gyms, Trails and Wellness Spots in Kinshasa . Travel Guide 6 ways to navigate public transport in Kinshasa . Dress smart‑casual; the velvet banquettes and candlelit tables demand at least a collared shirt or a chic blouse. Don’t be shy the uncle next to you will gladly demonstrate a sebene shimmy. 6. Millionaire Club New money meets old rhythms at this glossy nightclub near Bon Marché. Millionaire Club boasts a spacious dance floor with strobe lights and a state‑of‑the‑art sound system; premium spirits and champagne bottles flow, luring diplomats, musicians and well‑heeled locals . Entry fees vary but expect to pay around CDF 22 000–44 000 (US$10‑20) depending on the DJ line‑up. Drinks start at CDF 17 500 (≈US$8) for cocktails, climbing steeply for imported champagne . For a glimpse of the glamour, scroll through @millionaireclubkin on Instagram the bottle‑service shots are legendary. Arrive before midnight to avoid the velvet‑rope scrum. Once inside, grab a booth near the dance floor; the resident DJ blends international hits with Congolese Ndombolo so you can practise your hips in a more polished setting. Dress to impress sneakers won’t fly here. Local tip: watch the bartenders flair‑pouring flaming shots; it’s a show in itself. If you’re feeling flush, book a VIP table and you might end up two‑stepping with a visiting Afrobeats star. Kinshasa’s Ndombolo scene is as varied as the city itself: from rooftop sundowners and rowdy street terraces to chic clubs and old‑school ballrooms. Wherever you end up, remember that Congolese dance is less about perfection than participation. Locals will drag you into the circle even if your hips lie, and they’ll cheer your progress with cold Primus beer and belly laughs. In one night you might not master every move but you’ll leave sweaty, smiling, and humming a sebene all the way back to your hotel. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Eco Tourism DRC Begins Major Rebuild of Kinshasa Zoo ICCN and Vantara launch a two-year plan to rebuild Kinshasa’s long-neglected zoo. . Food and Travel 10 Best Shopping Malls in Kinshasa 2026 Your 2025 guide to Kinshasa’s top malls for shopping, dining, errands and pure AC-powered bliss. . Travel Guide Top 10 Family Friendly Spots in Kinshasa Kinshasa’s best parks, lakes, sanctuaries and fun zones for an easy, kid approved day out in 2025. . Travel Guide Top 10 Gyms, Trails and Wellness Spots in Kinshasa A fast, witty guide to the best gyms, running trails and wellness spots keeping Kinshasa fit in 2025. . Tags Visit Congo Visit Congo Travel Blog Travel Blog DR.Congo DR.Congo Travel Blog Travel Blog Travel Africa Travel Africa Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism

Addis Ababa, June 8, 2024 – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the Ashenafi Kebede Performing Arts Center, a new addition to the Yared School of Music at Addis Ababa University. Named after Ethiopia’s renowned musical artist, composer, conductor, historical musicologist, music educator, novelist, and poet, Professor Ashenafi Kebede, the center honors his legacy. Professor Kebede was also the first director of the Yared Music School. At the inauguration, Prime Minister Abiy expressed his pleasure, stating, "I am pleased to witness the inauguration of the Ashenafi Kebede Performing Arts Center at the Yared School of Music." Abiy highlighted the significance of Professor Kebede’s contributions, emphasizing the center's new director, Girma Yifrashewa, who aims to bridge the past and future of Ethiopian music. "Such continuity and linkage are essential in all our institutions. Music is powerful, and we must use this power to enlighten our youth," Abiy noted. The Prime Minister underscored the role of the arts in shaping future generations and boosting tourism. He called for efforts to promote Ethiopia’s rich artistic, historical, and cultural heritage. "The Yared School of Music has a responsibility to promote the history and culture of Ethiopia to the outside world," Abiy stressed. Founded in 1954 by the Ministry of Education & Fine Arts, the Yared School of Music stands as a premier state-owned institution for higher music education in Ethiopia. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 9, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Addis Ababa, June 8, 2024 – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the Ashenafi Kebede Performing Arts Center, a new addition to the Yared School of Music at Addis Ababa University. Named after Ethiopia’s renowned musical artist, composer, conductor, historical musicologist, music educator, novelist, and poet, Professor Ashenafi Kebede, the center honors his legacy. Professor Kebede was also the first director of the Yared Music School. ADVERTISEMENT At the inauguration, Prime Minister Abiy expressed his pleasure, stating, "I am pleased to witness the inauguration of the Ashenafi Kebede Performing Arts Center at the Yared School of Music." Abiy highlighted the significance of Professor Kebede’s contributions, emphasizing the center's new director, Girma Yifrashewa, who aims to bridge the past and future of Ethiopian music. ADVERTISEMENT "Such continuity and linkage are essential in all our institutions. Music is powerful, and we must use this power to enlighten our youth," Abiy noted. The Prime Minister underscored the role of the arts in shaping future generations and boosting tourism. He called for efforts to promote Ethiopia’s rich artistic, historical, and cultural heritage. "The Yared School of Music has a responsibility to promote the history and culture of Ethiopia to the outside world," Abiy stressed. Founded in 1954 by the Ministry of Education & Fine Arts, the Yared School of Music stands as a premier state-owned institution for higher music education in Ethiopia. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

South Africa leads Africa on the 2025 Forbes Global 2000 List, highlighting the country’s dominance in Africa’s corporate landscape. South Africa has once again emerged as Africa’s corporate leader, with 17 companies making the 2025 Forbes Global 2000 list, a prestigious annual ranking of the world’s largest and most influential publicly traded firms. The list, which evaluates companies based on a composite score of revenue, profit, assets, and market value, reflects the relative strength of national economies through their top-tier enterprises. Of the African continent’s total representation, South Africa commands the lion’s share, reaffirming its place as Africa’s most diversified and industrialized economy. The country’s presence spans multiple sectors, including media, finance, mining, telecoms, and retail. The top-ranked African firm is Naspers, the Cape Town–based media and internet behemoth , valued at $36 billion, primarily driven by its investments in global tech firms, including Tencent in China. Naspers continues to dominate Africa’s corporate space due to its high market value and innovation-driven strategy. South Africa’s banking giants are also well-represented: FirstRand – Market value: $27.4 billion Standard Bank Group – Market value: $22.8 billion Capitec Bank – Market value: $19.3 billion Absa Group – Market value: $9.6 billion These financial institutions have consistently ranked high due to their regional influence, customer base, profitability, and Pan-African operations. Mining continues to be a pillar of South Africa’s economy. Notable mining companies on the list include: Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 15, 2025 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: South Africa has once again emerged as Africa’s corporate leader, with 17 companies making the 2025 Forbes Global 2000 list, a prestigious annual ranking of the world’s largest and most influential publicly traded firms. The list, which evaluates companies based on a composite score of revenue, profit, assets, and market value, reflects the relative strength of national economies through their top-tier enterprises. Of the African continent’s total representation, South Africa commands the lion’s share, reaffirming its place as Africa’s most diversified and industrialized economy. The country’s presence spans multiple sectors, including media, finance, mining, telecoms, and retail. The top-ranked African firm is Naspers, the Cape Town–based media and internet behemoth , valued at $36 billion, primarily driven by its investments in global tech firms, including Tencent in China. Naspers continues to dominate Africa’s corporate space due to its high market value and innovation-driven strategy. South Africa’s banking giants are also well-represented: ADVERTISEMENT FirstRand – Market value: $27.4 billion Standard Bank Group – Market value: $22.8 billion Capitec Bank – Market value: $19.3 billion Absa Group – Market value: $9.6 billion These financial institutions have consistently ranked high due to their regional influence, customer base, profitability, and Pan-African operations. Mining continues to be a pillar of South Africa’s economy. Notable mining companies on the list include: Gold Fields – $12.7 billion Anglo American Platinum – $9.76 billion Harmony Gold Mining – $6.67 billion Kumba Iron Ore – $6.65 billion In telecommunications, MTN Group ($9.81 billion) and Vodacom Group ($13.1 billion) maintain strong standings due to their expansive networks and growing subscriber bases across Africa and the Middle East. ADVERTISEMENT South Africa’s robust retail and services sector is represented by: Shoprite Holdings – Africa’s largest retailer, with a market value of $10.37 billion Bidvest Group – A diversified services and trading company valued at $8.6 billion Aspen Pharmacare – The continent’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturer While South Africa leads, Morocco also secured a notable place on the Forbes Global 2000 with three major financial institutions: Attijariwafa Bank – Market value: $11.1 billion Banque Centrale Populaire Maroc Telecom Morocco’s consistent economic reforms, stable financial sector, and strategic trade agreements with Europe and Arab nations have enabled its corporate champions to grow beyond national borders. Egypt, although absent from the top performers in this edition, continues to produce mid-sized corporations that are expanding rapidly in sectors such as banking, construction, and energy. Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy by GDP, remains underrepresented due to currency fluctuations, regulatory uncertainty, and listing preferences on foreign exchanges over local ones. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Sports Trends Morocco Captain Achraf Hakimi Ordered to Stand rape Trial in France . FIFA World Cup Qualifier Why South Africa and Morocco Face Trolling from Most African Fans . Sports Trends Senegal to appeal Caf Afcon title reversal at CAS . . . According to Forbes and industry analysts, a company's appearance on the Global 2000 list signals not only business scale but also market resilience and global competitiveness. South Africa’s performance reflects: A maturing investment environment with a long history of public listings Diversified industry strength beyond commodities, spanning technology and finance Regulatory consistency that supports private-sector growth A 2024 McKinsey report noted that South Africa hosts more than 40% of Africa’s billion-dollar firms, out of an estimated 147 companies across the continent with revenues over $1 billion. These firms contribute significantly to employment, taxation, and GDP. The 2025 Forbes Global 2000 rankings serve as a barometer for Africa’s corporate trajectory . South Africa’s leadership underscores the importance of diversified economies and strong capital markets. Morocco’s emergence points to the value of regional integration and stable governance. Other African nations, particularly Nigeria, Kenya, and Egypt, are urged to improve the business climate and encourage more public listings to elevate their continental influence. With Africa poised to benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the next decade may see a broader distribution of global corporate influence across the continent—if the right policies are in place. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Sports Trends Morocco Captain Achraf Hakimi Ordered to Stand rape Trial in France French court process moves forward as the Morocco captain denies the rape allegation . FIFA World Cup Qualifier Why South Africa and Morocco Face Trolling from Most African Fans South Africa & Morocco Are Being Trolled by Some African Fans at the 2026 World Cup . Sports Trends Senegal to appeal Caf Afcon title reversal at CAS Senegal challenges Caf ruling awarding Morocco 2025 Afcon title . South Africa Emerges as Africa's Corporate Leader on 2025 Forbes Global 2000 List . Tags Morocco Morocco South Africa South Africa Egypt Egypt Forbes Global 2000 Forbes Global 2000

Malaysia joins Indonesia in restricting Elon Musk’s Grok AI over deepfake misuse; UK weighs action amid growing global backlash. Malaysia and Indonesia have temporarily blocked access to Grok, the artificial‑intelligence chatbot built by Elon Musk’s xAI and embedded in the X social media platform, following reports that the tool generated non‑consensual sexualised images of women and children. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said on 12 January 2026 that repeated misuse of the tool to produce obscene and non‑consensual images left it with no option but to restrict access until effective technical and moderation safeguards are in place as first reported by Reuters. Indonesia’s Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs had blocked the service two days earlier, becoming the first country to deny access to the AI tool after warning that non‑consensual deepfakes violate human rights and digital safety . Core facts Regulators act after repeated misuse. MCMC said it issued notices to X and xAI earlier in January demanding safeguards to prevent misuse, but the responses relied mainly on user‑initiated reporting and failed to address risks posed by Grok’s design. The regulator added that access would remain blocked until effective measures are implemented . Indonesia cites human rights violations. Indonesian communications minister Meutya Hafid said the government views non‑consensual sexual deepfakes as “a serious violation of human rights, dignity, and the security of citizens in the digital space”. The ministry summoned X officials to discuss the matter. Developer limits features. On 9 January 2026, xAI restricted image generation and editing features of Grok to paying subscribers after global backlash, though the standalone app and tab on X continued to allow image generation. The company said this would identify users who misuse the feature; the European Commission said the change did not address its concerns about unlawful images Official responses in the UK. Britain’s media regulator Ofcom launched an investigation into X to determine whether Grok’s sexualised images breached UK law. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the images “disgusting” and “unlawful” and urged X to “get a grip”. Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the government would support Ofcom if it sought a court order to block X in Britain. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the Online Safety Act gives Ofcom the power to block services that refuse to comply and pledged full support if those powers are used. Additional context Grok is an AI chatbot developed by xAI, an Elon Musk‑led company, and is accessible through X as well as a standalone app. The tool can generate text and images in response to user prompts. In early January 2026, social media users began sharing examples of the tool producing altered images of women and minors, prompting condemnation from governments and regulators worldwide. The European Commission, French regulators and Indian authorities have described the images as unlawful and urged swift action. Continue Reading Full Article TECH TRENDS Musk’s Grok AI banned in Malaysia and Indonesia over Deepfake Abuse By Sebastiane Ebatamehi Pan-African Analyst & Content Strategist Sebastiane Ebatamehi Home Comment Jan 12, 2026 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Malaysia and Indonesia have temporarily blocked access to Grok, the artificial‑intelligence chatbot built by Elon Musk’s xAI and embedded in the X social media platform, following reports that the tool generated non‑consensual sexualised images of women and children. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said on 12 January 2026 that repeated misuse of the tool to produce obscene and non‑consensual images left it with no option but to restrict access until effective technical and moderation safeguards are in place as first reported by Reuters. Indonesia’s Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs had blocked the service two days earlier, becoming the first country to deny access to the AI tool after warning that non‑consensual deepfakes violate human rights and digital safety . ADVERTISEMENT Core facts Regulators act after repeated misuse. MCMC said it issued notices to X and xAI earlier in January demanding safeguards to prevent misuse, but the responses relied mainly on user‑initiated reporting and failed to address risks posed by Grok’s design. The regulator added that access would remain blocked until effective measures are implemented . Indonesia cites human rights violations. Indonesian communications minister Meutya Hafid said the government views non‑consensual sexual deepfakes as “a serious violation of human rights, dignity, and the security of citizens in the digital space”. The ministry summoned X officials to discuss the matter. Developer limits features. On 9 January 2026, xAI restricted image generation and editing features of Grok to paying subscribers after global backlash, though the standalone app and tab on X continued to allow image generation. The company said this would identify users who misuse the feature; the European Commission said the change did not address its concerns about unlawful images Official responses in the UK. Britain’s media regulator Ofcom launched an investigation into X to determine whether Grok’s sexualised images breached UK law. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the images “disgusting” and “unlawful” and urged X to “get a grip”. Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the government would support Ofcom if it sought a court order to block X in Britain. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the Online Safety Act gives Ofcom the power to block services that refuse to comply and pledged full support if those powers are used. Additional context Grok is an AI chatbot developed by xAI, an Elon Musk‑led company, and is accessible through X as well as a standalone app. The tool can generate text and images in response to user prompts. In early January 2026, social media users began sharing examples of the tool producing altered images of women and minors, prompting condemnation from governments and regulators worldwide. The European Commission, French regulators and Indian authorities have described the images as unlawful and urged swift action. Non‑consensual intimate images and child sexual abuse material are illegal in both Malaysia and Indonesia, which have previously taken tough stances on online pornography. Malaysia’s decision follows Indonesia’s block and makes it one of the first countries to restrict access to Grok. The actions highlight growing regulatory scrutiny of generative AI tools and underscore concerns that such technology can facilitate harassment and abuse if left unchecked . ADVERTISEMENT Background Grok forms part of a wave of generative AI tools that can create realistic images and text from user prompts. While such tools have potential for productivity and entertainment, they also raise new issues about safety and legality. Authorities in Malaysia and Indonesia emphasised that the bans are temporary and could be lifted once robust safeguards against abuse are in place. Observers say the swift actions by the South‑East Asian nations may set a precedent for other jurisdictions grappling with AI‑generated deepfakes and online safety. Source: Reuters. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW POPULAR TODAY Tech Trends Musk’s Grok AI banned in Malaysia and Indonesia over Deepfake Abuse . 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NBA Africa and New Era Education, a Cairo-based educational services and school management company, have announced the launch of the first NBA Basketball School in Africa. Set to open in January 2025, the school will be located at Uppingham School Cairo in New Giza. The initiative aims to train young basketball prospects and promote the sport across the continent. Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League, reiterated the NBA's commitment to nurturing African talent during his visit to France for the Quai 54 streetball tournament. "We want to continue to develop top talents on the continent through partnerships like the NBA Academy and our Elevate program, which is producing elite talent," Fall stated. He emphasized the importance of building value in African talent and retaining some of it within the continent. "We want Africa to be recognized not only as a place where talent is discovered but also where it is cultivated and appreciated," he added. The NBA Basketball School at Uppingham School Cairo will cater to youth aged 5-18, building on the league’s previous initiatives in Cairo, including the last three Basketball Africa League Nile Conference group phases and Jr. NBA programs. Since 2017, NBA Basketball Schools have been established in various countries, including Australia, Brazil, China, the Dominican Republic, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Lithuania, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, and Uruguay. NBA Africa, an affiliate of the US National Basketball Association (NBA), continues to expand its footprint on the continent, aiming to inspire and develop the next generation of basketball players . By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 24, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: NBA Africa and New Era Education, a Cairo-based educational services and school management company, have announced the launch of the first NBA Basketball School in Africa. Set to open in January 2025, the school will be located at Uppingham School Cairo in New Giza. The initiative aims to train young basketball prospects and promote the sport across the continent. Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League, reiterated the NBA's commitment to nurturing African talent during his visit to France for the Quai 54 streetball tournament. "We want to continue to develop top talents on the continent through partnerships like the NBA Academy and our Elevate program, which is producing elite talent," Fall stated. ADVERTISEMENT He emphasized the importance of building value in African talent and retaining some of it within the continent. "We want Africa to be recognized not only as a place where talent is discovered but also where it is cultivated and appreciated," he added. The NBA Basketball School at Uppingham School Cairo will cater to youth aged 5-18, building on the league’s previous initiatives in Cairo, including the last three Basketball Africa League Nile Conference group phases and Jr. NBA programs. ADVERTISEMENT Since 2017, NBA Basketball Schools have been established in various countries, including Australia, Brazil, China, the Dominican Republic, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Lithuania, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, and Uruguay. NBA Africa, an affiliate of the US National Basketball Association (NBA), continues to expand its footprint on the continent, aiming to inspire and develop the next generation of basketball players . ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

Compare Nyerere and Ruaha safaris by wildlife, scenery, activities, access, seasons and costs to choose the right southern Tanzania park. Nyerere and Ruaha are often sold together as Tanzania’s southern safari circuit, but they do not deliver the same trip. Nyerere is shaped by the Rufiji River, lakes and floodplains. Ruaha is an inland landscape of rocky hills, baobabs, miombo woodland and seasonal rivers where game drives usually take centre stage. The right choice depends less on which park is “better” than on how you want to spend each day. Start with XTRAfrica’s Tanzania travel guide if you are still deciding between the country’s northern, southern and coastal regions. If the southern circuit is already your priority, this comparison shows where each park is strongest. Should you choose Nyerere or Ruaha for a southern Tanzania safari? Choose Nyerere for easier access from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar and a varied safari combining drives, boats and guided walks. Choose Ruaha for a more remote, land-based safari with expansive drives, dramatic dry-country scenery and more time devoted to tracking wildlife. Southern Tanzania Safari Orientation Both parks lie far from Arusha and Tanzania’s familiar northern safari route. Nyerere occupies part of the Selous landscape south and west of Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania National Parks authority’s Nyerere profile describes more than 30,000 square kilometres of miombo woodland, floodplain, lakes and Rufiji River channels. Most photographic safaris concentrate in a smaller northern sector where camps, airstrips and river activities are established. Ruaha lies farther inland in south-central Tanzania, west of Iringa. TANAPA records its area as 20,226 square kilometres. The Great Ruaha River and its tributaries organise much of the best-known game-viewing country, but the wider park also contains extensive woodland, plains, rocky outcrops and baobab-dotted hills. Nyerere is the more natural extension from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar and gives travellers several ways to experience one ecosystem. Ruaha asks for a longer air connection or an overland approach through Iringa. XTRAfrica’s northern-versus-southern safari comparison explains how both differ from Serengeti and Ngorongoro itineraries. Choose Nyerere for Water and Activity Variety Nyerere’s defining advantage is the ability to change perspective. A morning game drive can be followed by a boat safari among the Rufiji channels or a permitted walk with an authorised guide. TANAPA lists boat safaris, guided walking and photographic game drives, and notes that walks require advance booking and permits. The water changes what visitors can observe. Hippos and crocodiles are closely associated with the river and lakes, while fish eagles, kingfishers, bee-eaters and wetland birds add interest even when large mammals are resting. A boat is also a slower, quieter contrast to a full day in a vehicle. It should never be treated as a close-contact wildlife ride: the skipper’s instructions and distance from animals matter. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Nyerere vs Ruaha: Choosing a Southern Tanzania Safari By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 19, 2026 Aug 19, 2026 16 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nyerere and Ruaha are often sold together as Tanzania’s southern safari circuit, but they do not deliver the same trip. Nyerere is shaped by the Rufiji River, lakes and floodplains. Ruaha is an inland landscape of rocky hills, baobabs, miombo woodland and seasonal rivers where game drives usually take centre stage. The right choice depends less on which park is “better” than on how you want to spend each day. Start with XTRAfrica’s Tanzania travel guide if you are still deciding between the country’s northern, southern and coastal regions. If the southern circuit is already your priority, this comparison shows where each park is strongest. Should you choose Nyerere or Ruaha for a southern Tanzania safari? Choose Nyerere for easier access from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar and a varied safari combining drives, boats and guided walks. Choose Ruaha for a more remote, land-based safari with expansive drives, dramatic dry-country scenery and more time devoted to tracking wildlife. Southern Tanzania Safari Orientation Both parks lie far from Arusha and Tanzania’s familiar northern safari route. Nyerere occupies part of the Selous landscape south and west of Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania National Parks authority’s Nyerere profile describes more than 30,000 square kilometres of miombo woodland, floodplain, lakes and Rufiji River channels. Most photographic safaris concentrate in a smaller northern sector where camps, airstrips and river activities are established. Ruaha lies farther inland in south-central Tanzania, west of Iringa. TANAPA records its area as 20,226 square kilometres. The Great Ruaha River and its tributaries organise much of the best-known game-viewing country, but the wider park also contains extensive woodland, plains, rocky outcrops and baobab-dotted hills. Nyerere is the more natural extension from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar and gives travellers several ways to experience one ecosystem. Ruaha asks for a longer air connection or an overland approach through Iringa. XTRAfrica’s northern-versus-southern safari comparison explains how both differ from Serengeti and Ngorongoro itineraries. Choose Nyerere for Water and Activity Variety Nyerere’s defining advantage is the ability to change perspective. A morning game drive can be followed by a boat safari among the Rufiji channels or a permitted walk with an authorised guide. TANAPA lists boat safaris, guided walking and photographic game drives, and notes that walks require advance booking and permits. The water changes what visitors can observe. Hippos and crocodiles are closely associated with the river and lakes, while fish eagles, kingfishers, bee-eaters and wetland birds add interest even when large mammals are resting. A boat is also a slower, quieter contrast to a full day in a vehicle. It should never be treated as a close-contact wildlife ride: the skipper’s instructions and distance from animals matter. Nyerere also supports lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, leopards, hyenas and African wild dogs. Wild dogs are an important reason many enthusiasts choose the park, but they range over large areas and should not be promised. The honest sales question is whether the guide has enough time and mobility to follow current signs not whether a brochure lists the species. Choose Nyerere when the group contains travellers with different interests, when the safari follows time in Zanzibar, or when four nights must provide more than repeated vehicle drives. It is also the easier first step into southern Tanzania for travellers who want remoteness without committing most of a day to reaching the park. Choose Ruaha for Expansive Game Drives ADVERTISEMENT Ruaha’s strength is the scale and character of its land safari. The best-known routes follow the Great Ruaha River and seasonal watercourses, where wildlife often concentrates as the dry season advances. Away from the river, woodland, rocky kopjes, open plains and baobabs give the park a visual identity quite different from Nyerere’s lakes and floodplains. TANAPA lists elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, crocodiles and hippos among Ruaha’s wildlife and identifies both greater and lesser kudu as notable species. The park is especially rewarding for travellers who enjoy interpreting tracks, revisiting an area after fresh predator signs, and letting a guide build a wildlife picture over several days rather than rushing through a checklist. That depth requires time. Four nights is a stronger starting point because arrival and departure reduce usable game-viewing hours, while wildlife may be spread across different river systems or woodland zones. A fifth night suits photographers, repeat visitors and travellers dividing the stay between separate areas. Ruaha is not simply “Nyerere without boats.” Its remoteness, longer drives and drier scenery are the attraction. Travellers who become restless during long vehicle sessions or who strongly want water-based activities may find Nyerere more varied. Those who want the day organised around tracking and landscape usually find Ruaha the more absorbing choice. Which Park Has Better Wildlife Viewing? An African elephant in Ruaha National Park. Elephants are among the park’s major attractions, but their location and visibility vary with water, season and recent movement. Photo: Richard Mortel/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 . Neither park can guarantee a species, and a short sighting list is a poor way to compare them. Season, water, fire, guide knowledge, recent animal movement and the location of the camp all affect what a visitor sees. Nyerere has the clearer advantage for hippos, crocodiles and river-associated birds because boats and lakes create viewing opportunities unavailable on a standard Ruaha itinerary. It is also widely associated with African wild dogs. Ruaha’s appeal is stronger for travellers prioritising lions, large herbivores, kudu and a predator-focused driving safari across varied dry-country habitats. Birders should not dismiss either park. TANAPA reports more than 440 species for Nyerere and more than 570 for Ruaha, but totals alone should not decide a trip. Nyerere offers riverine and wetland habitats; Ruaha combines river corridors with woodland and drier-country species. Ask whether the itinerary leaves dedicated time for birding. Access, Flight Time and a Realistic Itinerary An aerial view photographed during a bush flight between Ruaha and the Selous landscape. Scheduled light-aircraft connections can make a combined Ruaha and Nyerere itinerary practical, subject to current routing. Photo: Richard Mortel/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 . Nyerere is usually simpler from Dar es Salaam. Coastal Aviation’s currently published Selous–Nyerere timetable lists several daily Dar es Salaam connections and service from Zanzibar, with flights using airstrips including Mtemere, Siwandu and Beho Beho. The correct airstrip depends on the camp; booking the wrong one can create an expensive ground transfer or an impossible pickup. Ruaha is farther from the coast. Coastal’s Dar es Salaam route information currently lists a morning service to Ruaha, while road travellers normally approach through Iringa. Schedules, stops and operating days can change, and a bush flight may call at another airstrip before reaching the final destination. Confirm the routing, luggage allowance and minimum check-in time directly with the operating airline. A sensible single-park plan is three or four nights in Nyerere or four or five in Ruaha. To combine them, allow at least seven safari nights: three in Nyerere and four in Ruaha is a practical minimum. Coastal currently publishes an air connection between the two safari areas, so the pair can work without returning to Dar es Salaam, although the operator must reconfirm the service for the exact travel date. ADVERTISEMENT Travellers with only seven to ten days should avoid adding both parks, the northern circuit and Zanzibar. XTRAfrica’s 10-day Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Zanzibar itinerary demonstrates a northern alternative; choose one coherent circuit. When to Visit Nyerere and Ruaha June through October is generally the easiest shared window. Roads are usually more manageable, vegetation becomes less dense in many areas, and wildlife increasingly uses remaining water. September and October can be hot and dusty, especially in Ruaha, so travellers sensitive to heat may prefer the earlier dry-season months. A giraffe beside a dry section of the Great Ruaha River in Ruaha National Park. River conditions change seasonally, affecting landscapes, wildlife distribution and game-viewing routes. Photo: Paul Shaffner/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 . The wetter months bring greener scenery, migrant birds, young animals and lower demand at some properties, but access becomes less predictable. Roads can deteriorate, wildlife may disperse and some camps or activities may close. Boat conditions in Nyerere and river levels in both parks also vary; water-based activities should be reconfirmed rather than assumed from an old itinerary. Use XTRAfrica’s best time to visit Tanzania guide for the national climate pattern, then ask the chosen camp for sector-specific conditions. A countrywide forecast cannot tell you whether a particular park road, airstrip or river activity is operating. Costs: Compare the Whole Safari, Not Only Park Entry The official park profiles currently display the same headline international-adult entry figure for Nyerere and Ruaha. However, TANAPA’s central tariff portal is still labelled for the 2023/2024 financial year. Do not treat an undated screenshot or an old PDF as the final 2026 charge. A giraffe beside a dry section of the Great Ruaha River in Ruaha National Park. River conditions change seasonally, affecting landscapes, wildlife distribution and game-viewing routes. Photo: Paul Shaffner/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 . Ask every operator to separate conservation fees, concession or camping charges, activity fees, vehicle costs, domestic flights, transfers, accommodation, taxes and tips. Nyerere may cost less to reach from Dar es Salaam because the flight is shorter, but a premium river camp with private activities can still exceed a modest Ruaha itinerary. Ruaha’s longer air sector and remote logistics often raise the total; accommodation standard and season can outweigh that difference. XTRAfrica’s 2026 Tanzania safari cost guide explains why group size, vehicle type, camp location and inclusions matter more than a single advertised daily rate. Compare quotations line by line and ask whether flights are direct, shared or routed through other airstrips. Responsible Travel Is Part of the Choice These parks are conservation areas embedded in larger human landscapes, not empty wildernesses. Around Ruaha, questions about park boundaries, village access and livelihoods became serious enough for the World Bank to suspend and later cancel the REGROW project. Its 2025 management action statement acknowledges shortcomings involving resettlement risks, access restrictions and effects on nearby communities. Sunset over the Rufiji River in the Selous–Nyerere landscape. Nyerere suits travellers seeking river activities and safari variety, while Ruaha rewards those wanting a deeper land-based wildlife experience. Photo: BM Explorer/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 . The Great Ruaha River also faces long dry spells and competing water demands. The IUCN’s account of restoration work connects river health with farming, livelihoods and wildlife across the basin. Travellers cannot solve those pressures, but they can ask operators how local staff are employed, how community partnerships work and how water is managed at camp. Nyerere belongs to the wider Selous ecosystem. UNESCO describes the Selous World Heritage property as a globally important mixture of miombo woodland, grassland, riverine forest and swamp, while also recording it on the List of World Heritage in Danger. Avoid language that presents either landscape as empty, untouched or valuable only because tourists can see wildlife there. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Travel Guide Stone Town Travel Guide: History, Food and a Walking Route . Travel Guide Mafia Island Travel Guide: Diving, Whale Sharks and When to Go . African Culture Nyerere vs Ruaha: Choosing a Southern Tanzania Safari . African Culture Tanzania Visa and Entry Requirements: What Travellers Need . Travel Tips Getting Around Tanzania: Flights, Trains, Buses and Ferries . The Decision: Nyerere, Ruaha or Both? Choose Nyerere if this is your first southern safari, the trip begins in Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, you have three or four nights, or you want boat, walking and vehicle activities in one stay. Choose Ruaha if you can dedicate four or five nights, value long game drives and predator tracking, prefer dry-country scenery, and accept more complicated access in exchange for a remoter experience. Choose both if you have at least seven safari nights and the budget for the inter-park flight. Begin with Nyerere’s rivers and activity variety, then continue to Ruaha’s deeper land safari. Choose neither merely because the southern circuit is described as crowd-free. Visitor numbers, vehicle concentrations and wildlife locations change by season and sector. The strongest choice is the park whose daily rhythm matches the traveller not the one with the most dramatic marketing language. Frequently Asked Questions Is Nyerere the same as Selous Game Reserve? Not exactly. Nyerere National Park was created from part of the wider Selous landscape, and older airline, camp and safari material may still use “Selous” for the photographic tourism area. Confirm whether a booking is inside Nyerere National Park, elsewhere in the Selous ecosystem or using an older destination name. Can you drive from Dar es Salaam to Nyerere? Road access is possible, especially in drier conditions, but it is a long journey and the exact duration depends on the gate, road condition, traffic and vehicle. For short safaris, a bush flight usually protects more wildlife-viewing time. Confirm the road plan with an experienced operator. Can you drive from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha? Yes, but it is a long overland journey normally routed through Iringa. It works better as part of a broader road itinerary than as a quick transfer. A flight is usually more practical when the total holiday is short. Are walking safaris available in both parks? Yes, TANAPA lists guided walking in both Nyerere and Ruaha. Availability depends on permits, authorised guides, weather, location and the camp’s programme. Book in advance and never walk independently in wildlife areas. How many nights do you need? Allow three or four nights for Nyerere and four or five for Ruaha. Combining both works best with at least seven safari nights, excluding international arrival and departure buffers. Which park is better after Zanzibar? Nyerere is usually the easier extension because scheduled bush flights connect Zanzibar with the Nyerere Selous airstrip network. Ruaha can also be reached by air, but the journey is generally longer and may involve stops. Sources and reference All sources below were accessed and checked on 18 August 2026 . TANAPA: Nyerere National Park : official landscape, wildlife, activity and access information. TANAPA: Ruaha National Park : official park size, wildlife and activity information. TANAPA: Park Fees and Tariffs : official fee categories and payment guidance; page currently carries an older tariff period. Coastal Aviation: Selous–Nyerere : current published air connections and airstrips. Coastal Aviation: Dar es Salaam : current published Dar–Ruaha connection. UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Selous Game Reserve : ecosystem, heritage and conservation status. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Travel Guide Stone Town Travel Guide: History, Food and a Walking Route Stone Town occupies the western side of Unguja, the main island in the Zanzibar archipelago . Travel Guide Mafia Island Travel Guide: Diving, Whale Sharks and When to Go Plan Mafia Island by coast and season, with diving, whale sharks, transport, fees and places to stay. . African Culture Nyerere vs Ruaha: Choosing a Southern Tanzania Safari Compare wildlife, activities, access and costs before choosing Tanzania’s southern safari park. . African Culture Tanzania Visa and Entry Requirements: What Travellers Need Check visa eligibility, passport rules, health documents and Zanzibar insurance before travel. . Tags Visit Tanzania Visit Tanzania Tanzania Tanzania Visiting Tanzania Visiting Tanzania

DR Congo are heading to the 2026 World Cup after Axel Tuanzebe’s extra-time goal beat Jamaica and ended a 52-year absence. DR Congo’s 1-0 extra-time win over Jamaica has sent the Leopards to their first FIFA World Cup in 52 years, marking the country’s return to the global tournament for the first time since 1974, when it competed as Zaire. Axel Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal in Guadalajara on March 31, sealing one of the most significant moments in modern Congolese football. The result carries weight far beyond a single play-off victory. DR Congo had not appeared at the World Cup since their difficult 1974 campaign, and Tuanzebe’s winner now gives a new generation the chance to reshape that legacy on a much bigger stage. Match reports also confirmed that the goal came in the 100th minute of extra time as Jamaica fell short of reaching a second World Cup appearance. AP’s match report likewise noted that the win completed DR Congo’s qualification after a tense and closely fought contest. The qualification also matters because it places DR Congo into the expanded 48-team World Cup, a tournament that offers more visibility to emerging and returning football nations. According to FIFA’s play-off and tournament information, DR Congo will now move into Group K, where they are set to face Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan. That next phase will test the Leopards at a far higher level, but it also opens a rare opportunity for the team to turn a historic breakthrough into a broader statement on the world stage. For DR Congo, this qualification is not only about ending a long absence. It is about restoring presence, rewriting memory and giving supporters a new World Cup story that belongs to this generation rather than the one remembered from five decades ago. Source: BBC News SPORTS TRENDS WHY DR Congo’s World Cup return is historic after 52 years By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Apr 1, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: DR Congo’s 1-0 extra-time win over Jamaica has sent the Leopards to their first FIFA World Cup in 52 years, marking the country’s return to the global tournament for the first time since 1974, when it competed as Zaire. Axel Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal in Guadalajara on March 31, sealing one of the most significant moments in modern Congolese football. The result carries weight far beyond a single play-off victory. DR Congo had not appeared at the World Cup since their difficult 1974 campaign, and Tuanzebe’s winner now gives a new generation the chance to reshape that legacy on a much bigger stage. Match reports also confirmed that the goal came in the 100th minute of extra time as Jamaica fell short of reaching a second World Cup appearance. AP’s match report likewise noted that the win completed DR Congo’s qualification after a tense and closely fought contest. ADVERTISEMENT The qualification also matters because it places DR Congo into the expanded 48-team World Cup, a tournament that offers more visibility to emerging and returning football nations. According to FIFA’s play-off and tournament information, DR Congo will now move into Group K, where they are set to face Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan. That next phase will test the Leopards at a far higher level, but it also opens a rare opportunity for the team to turn a historic breakthrough into a broader statement on the world stage. ADVERTISEMENT For DR Congo, this qualification is not only about ending a long absence. It is about restoring presence, rewriting memory and giving supporters a new World Cup story that belongs to this generation rather than the one remembered from five decades ago. Source: BBC News ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas . Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects . ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" Tshisekedi says armed groups cannot turn military conquest into political legitimacy, . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% Rwanda faces surging prices at home as US sanctions and tighter external financing add pressure abroad. . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform The three-month process will reach all 26 provinces and seek consensus on peace, cohesion and . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas Kinshasa says students will not restart their studies as temporary measures protect academic records, . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo Xtrafrica News Xtrafrica News DR Congo Investment DR Congo Investment Sports Sports

Kigali, Rwanda - This Saturday, Amahoro Stadium, the largest and most iconic sports venue in Rwanda, will unofficially reopen with an exhilarating football match between fierce rivals Rayon Sports FC and APR FC. This event comes at a crucial time as Rwanda stands on the cusp of its presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for August 2024, while also navigating a wave of serious allegations presented in the "Rwanda Classified" report. A Symbolic Reopening Amahoro Stadium, which translates to "peace" in Kinyarwanda, has long been a symbol of national unity and reconciliation. The reopening match between Rayon Sports FC and APR FC is expected to draw thousands of fans, eager to witness one of the most anticipated clashes in Rwandan football. Although this event isn't the official reopening ceremony, it signifies the stadium's return to hosting major events and brings a sense of normalcy and excitement to the community. Political Climate and Upcoming Elections The timing of this match is significant as it precedes Rwanda's important elections. The political atmosphere is charged, with President Paul Kagame's administration under intense scrutiny following allegations made in the "Rwanda Classified" publication by a group of 50 journalists. The report accuses the Kigali regime of numerous crimes, including human rights abuses and the suppression of free speech. These revelations have added tension to the political landscape, influencing public discourse and potentially impacting voter sentiment. A Nation Under the Microscope The reopening of Amahoro Stadium serves as a reminder of Rwanda's journey towards peace and development. However, the allegations brought forward in "Rwanda Classified" highlight ongoing challenges. As the country prepares for the elections, these accusations are likely to influence both national and international perceptions of the current regime. The football match offers a momentary distraction from these political issues, providing a platform for unity and national pride. Football: A Unifying Force Football has always been a unifying force in Rwanda, bringing people together across different backgrounds. The match between Rayon Sports FC and APR FC, two of the most popular football clubs in Rwanda, is more than just a game; it is a celebration of sportsmanship, resilience, and community spirit. Fans from all walks of life will gather at Amahoro Stadium, demonstrating the power of sports to bridge divides and foster a sense of belonging. Looking Ahead Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 13, 2024 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kigali, Rwanda - This Saturday, Amahoro Stadium, the largest and most iconic sports venue in Rwanda, will unofficially reopen with an exhilarating football match between fierce rivals Rayon Sports FC and APR FC. This event comes at a crucial time as Rwanda stands on the cusp of its presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for August 2024, while also navigating a wave of serious allegations presented in the "Rwanda Classified" report. A Symbolic Reopening Amahoro Stadium, which translates to "peace" in Kinyarwanda, has long been a symbol of national unity and reconciliation. The reopening match between Rayon Sports FC and APR FC is expected to draw thousands of fans, eager to witness one of the most anticipated clashes in Rwandan football. Although this event isn't the official reopening ceremony, it signifies the stadium's return to hosting major events and brings a sense of normalcy and excitement to the community. ADVERTISEMENT Political Climate and Upcoming Elections The timing of this match is significant as it precedes Rwanda's important elections. The political atmosphere is charged, with President Paul Kagame's administration under intense scrutiny following allegations made in the "Rwanda Classified" publication by a group of 50 journalists. The report accuses the Kigali regime of numerous crimes, including human rights abuses and the suppression of free speech. These revelations have added tension to the political landscape, influencing public discourse and potentially impacting voter sentiment. A Nation Under the Microscope ADVERTISEMENT The reopening of Amahoro Stadium serves as a reminder of Rwanda's journey towards peace and development. However, the allegations brought forward in "Rwanda Classified" highlight ongoing challenges. As the country prepares for the elections, these accusations are likely to influence both national and international perceptions of the current regime. The football match offers a momentary distraction from these political issues, providing a platform for unity and national pride. Football: A Unifying Force Football has always been a unifying force in Rwanda, bringing people together across different backgrounds. The match between Rayon Sports FC and APR FC, two of the most popular football clubs in Rwanda, is more than just a game; it is a celebration of sportsmanship, resilience, and community spirit. Fans from all walks of life will gather at Amahoro Stadium, demonstrating the power of sports to bridge divides and foster a sense of belonging. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Looking Ahead As Amahoro Stadium reopens with this thrilling football match, it symbolizes hope and continuity for many Rwandans. Amidst the political turmoil and the shadow of the "Rwanda Classified" allegations, the event underscores the nation's resilience and its ability to find joy and unity in shared experiences. In the lead-up to the elections, it remains to be seen how these political dynamics will unfold. Nonetheless, the reopening of Amahoro Stadium with a match of such magnitude provides a moment of collective celebration, reminding everyone of the spirit of peace and togetherness that the stadium represents. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

The DRC launches a UN initiative to strengthen global rules against conflict minerals and curb illegal resource exploitation that fuels armed groups. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has launched a new diplomatic initiative at the United Nations aimed at closing international legal and regulatory gaps that allow the illegal exploitation of natural resources to finance armed conflict. On July 13, the DRC convened an informal UN Security Council meeting titled “The Normative Gaps Linking Natural Resources and Peace: Foundations and Perspectives.” The discussion was chaired by Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner and brought together UN member states, regional organizations, civil society, academics and private-sector representatives. Why the DRC Called the Meeting The DRC argues that natural resources should support development, industrialization and shared prosperity. Instead, in many conflict zones, minerals are illegally extracted, trafficked and taxed to finance armed groups and prolong violence. The Congolese concept note warned that global demand for critical minerals is expected to increase sharply as countries expand clean-energy technologies, digital infrastructure, electronics, defence and aerospace production. It also argued that current international mechanisms remain fragmented and are not sufficiently coordinated to stop illegal mineral trading. Existing initiatives include the Kimberley Process , the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative , and the OECD’s responsible mineral supply-chain guidance. However, the DRC believes these systems do not yet form a strong and unified framework capable of addressing the links between resource trafficking, armed groups and insecurity. Congo’s Experience Shapes the Initiative The DRC holds some of the world’s most important reserves of cobalt, copper, coltan, tin and other minerals needed for modern technology and the global energy transition. At the same time, illegal mining and cross-border mineral trafficking have long contributed to conflict in the country’s eastern provinces. Armed groups have generated income through control of mining areas, taxation of production and trade routes, while minerals extracted from conflict zones have entered regional and international supply chains. Continue Reading Full Article POLITICS & DIPLOMACY DRC Launches UN Initiative to Tackle Conflict Minerals By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jul 13, 2026 Jul 13, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of the Congo has launched a new diplomatic initiative at the United Nations aimed at closing international legal and regulatory gaps that allow the illegal exploitation of natural resources to finance armed conflict. On July 13, the DRC convened an informal UN Security Council meeting titled “The Normative Gaps Linking Natural Resources and Peace: Foundations and Perspectives.” The discussion was chaired by Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner and brought together UN member states, regional organizations, civil society, academics and private-sector representatives. Why the DRC Called the Meeting The DRC argues that natural resources should support development, industrialization and shared prosperity. Instead, in many conflict zones, minerals are illegally extracted, trafficked and taxed to finance armed groups and prolong violence. The Congolese concept note warned that global demand for critical minerals is expected to increase sharply as countries expand clean-energy technologies, digital infrastructure, electronics, defence and aerospace production. It also argued that current international mechanisms remain fragmented and are not sufficiently coordinated to stop illegal mineral trading. Existing initiatives include the Kimberley Process , the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative , and the OECD’s responsible mineral supply-chain guidance. However, the DRC believes these systems do not yet form a strong and unified framework capable of addressing the links between resource trafficking, armed groups and insecurity. ADVERTISEMENT Congo’s Experience Shapes the Initiative The DRC holds some of the world’s most important reserves of cobalt, copper, coltan, tin and other minerals needed for modern technology and the global energy transition. At the same time, illegal mining and cross-border mineral trafficking have long contributed to conflict in the country’s eastern provinces. Armed groups have generated income through control of mining areas, taxation of production and trade routes, while minerals extracted from conflict zones have entered regional and international supply chains. Kinshasa wants the international community to move beyond treating resource exploitation only as a country-specific problem. Its initiative seeks a wider global system that could improve traceability, strengthen enforcement, and prevent companies or armed networks from benefiting from minerals linked to violence. DRC Considers a New UN Framework The meeting was designed to assess whether a more harmonized international framework is politically and operationally possible. Possible outcomes could include a future thematic debate, a UN Security Council resolution, or another formal Council document addressing natural-resource governance and conflict. ADVERTISEMENT DRC Ambassador to the UN Zénon Mukongo Ngay has said the July meetings could help shape discussions on a possible standalone Security Council product on natural-resource governance. The DRC also intends to circulate a chair’s summary reflecting the views and recommendations presented during the Arria-formula meeting. Tshisekedi to Chair High-Level Debate The July 13 discussion is expected to help prepare a high-level UN Security Council debate scheduled for July 22 . President Félix Tshisekedi is expected to chair that meeting under the theme “Natural Resource Governance: The Foundation of Peace, Security and Prosperity.” It is one of the DRC’s main events during its July presidency of the Security Council. Through both meetings, the DRC is seeking to build international support for stronger rules that ensure critical minerals contribute to development instead of financing armed groups, displacement and instability. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas . Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects . A Difficult Diplomatic Debate Security Council members broadly recognize that illegal natural-resource exploitation can finance armed groups and prolong conflict. However, some governments may resist the creation of a new global framework, arguing that existing national, regional and international mechanisms should be strengthened instead. The Security Council has not adopted a standalone thematic document focused exclusively on natural resources and conflict since 2007, although later resolutions and presidential statements have addressed the issue in specific regional and peacekeeping contexts. The DRC’s initiative therefore represents an effort to return the issue to the centre of global peace and security discussions. For Kinshasa, the objective is clear: countries producing the minerals that power the modern economy should not continue paying for that global demand through war, illegal trafficking and the suffering of their communities. Source Security Council Report, “Arria-formula Meeting on Natural Resources,” published July 10, 2026 ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Justice & Crime Tshisekedi: No Military Conquest Will Become Political Legitimacy" Tshisekedi says armed groups cannot turn military conquest into political legitimacy, . War in Eastern DRC Rwanda Raises Interest Rate to 8.75% as Inflation Hits 14.5% Rwanda faces surging prices at home as US sanctions and tighter external financing add pressure abroad. . Peace For DRC Now Tshisekedi Launches DRC National Dialogue for Peace and Reform The three-month process will reach all 26 provinces and seek consensus on peace, cohesion and . PRESS RELEASE DRC Protects Students, Diplomas in AFC/M23-Held Areas Kinshasa says students will not restart their studies as temporary measures protect academic records, . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo Thérèse Kayikwamba Thérèse Kayikwamba

Nigerian music star 2Baba says he has moved on after separating from Annie Idibia and is focusing on his life and career. Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has said he has moved on following his separation from his former wife, Annie Idibia. The singer made the remarks during a recent interview with media personality Seun Okinbaloye, where he stated that he is now focused on his personal life and music career. “I have moved on from my ex-wife, Annie Idibia. I am doing my own thing and moving forward,” 2Baba said during the interview. 2Baba and Annie Idibia began their relationship in the early 2000s and later became one of Nigeria’s most high-profile celebrity couples. They welcomed their first daughter, Isabella, in 2008, got engaged on Valentine’s Day in 2012, and married later that year. Their white wedding ceremony was held in Dubai in 2013. The couple had their second daughter, Olivia, in 2014. In January 2025, 2Baba announced via social media that he and Annie Idibia had been separated for some time and had filed for divorce, a development that surprised many fans. Following the announcement, Annie reportedly withdrew from social media and deleted several posts. Months after the separation became public, videos and photos surfaced online showing 2Baba at a traditional wedding ceremony with Hon. Natasha Osawaru, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly. The ceremony generated mixed reactions on social media, with discussions focusing on its timing shortly after his separation from Annie Idibia. Source Tribune Online, Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT 2Baba Says He Has Moved On After Separation From Annie Idibia By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 10, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has said he has moved on following his separation from his former wife, Annie Idibia. The singer made the remarks during a recent interview with media personality Seun Okinbaloye, where he stated that he is now focused on his personal life and music career. ADVERTISEMENT “I have moved on from my ex-wife, Annie Idibia. I am doing my own thing and moving forward,” 2Baba said during the interview. 2Baba and Annie Idibia began their relationship in the early 2000s and later became one of Nigeria’s most high-profile celebrity couples. They welcomed their first daughter, Isabella, in 2008, got engaged on Valentine’s Day in 2012, and married later that year. Their white wedding ceremony was held in Dubai in 2013. The couple had their second daughter, Olivia, in 2014. ADVERTISEMENT In January 2025, 2Baba announced via social media that he and Annie Idibia had been separated for some time and had filed for divorce, a development that surprised many fans. Following the announcement, Annie reportedly withdrew from social media and deleted several posts. Months after the separation became public, videos and photos surfaced online showing 2Baba at a traditional wedding ceremony with Hon. Natasha Osawaru, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly. The ceremony generated mixed reactions on social media, with discussions focusing on its timing shortly after his separation from Annie Idibia. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati . Entertainment Funke Akindele Faces Mixed Reactions Over Birthday Post . Source Tribune Online, ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto FOLA earned 10 nominations as The Headies prepares its October ceremony in Toronto . Entertainment Jub Jub Arrest Warrant Issued After Missed Court Appearance The warrant was held over after Jub Jub missed court citing illness and will not be enforced yet. . Entertainment Black Coffee Wins R7 Million Court Battle Against Maserati The High Court ordered Maserati to repay Soulistic Music over an undelivered customised MC20 Cielo. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Somalia's government has requested a delay in the withdrawal of African Union (AU) peacekeepers to avoid a potential security vacuum that could benefit al Shabaab militants. Documents obtained by Reuters reveal that the Somali government has asked the AU to slow the drawdown of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops. Originally set to withdraw by December 31, Somalia now seeks to delay the departure of half the 4,000 troops scheduled to leave by June until September. A joint assessment in March by Somalia and the AU, mandated by the UN Security Council, warned that a hasty drawdown could create a security vacuum. Mursal Khalif, an independent member of Somalia’s defense committee in parliament, expressed deep concern over the situation, emphasizing the risk of instability. The European Union (EU) and the United States, primary funders of the AU force, advocate for reducing the peacekeeping operation due to financial concerns. Diplomatic sources and a senior Ugandan official indicated that negotiations about a new force have been complex, with differing views on the mandate. Hussein Sheikh-Ali, Somalia’s National Security Adviser, stated that the delay aligns with planning for the post-ATMIS mission. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the AU special representative to Somalia and head of ATMIS, emphasized the importance of a conditions-based drawdown. Neighboring countries like Uganda and Kenya, which have contributed troops , express concerns about Somali forces' readiness. Uganda’s state minister of foreign affairs, Henry Okello Oryem, warned against a situation reminiscent of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, while Kenyan President William Ruto highlighted the risk of al Shabaab taking over. The EU and U.S. support building Somalia’s security capacities, with ongoing discussions about the new mission's size and mandate. The U.S. has invested over $2.5 billion in counterterrorism assistance since 2007, while the EU has provided around $2.8 billion to ATMIS and its predecessor. Despite these challenges, Somalia shows progress, with improved security in Mogadishu. However, analysts warn that al Shabaab's estimated 7,000-12,000 fighters remain a significant threat. The international community is committed to supporting Somalia’s security efforts to ensure long-term stability. By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 20, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Somalia's government has requested a delay in the withdrawal of African Union (AU) peacekeepers to avoid a potential security vacuum that could benefit al Shabaab militants. Documents obtained by Reuters reveal that the Somali government has asked the AU to slow the drawdown of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops. Originally set to withdraw by December 31, Somalia now seeks to delay the departure of half the 4,000 troops scheduled to leave by June until September. A joint assessment in March by Somalia and the AU, mandated by the UN Security Council, warned that a hasty drawdown could create a security vacuum. Mursal Khalif, an independent member of Somalia’s defense committee in parliament, expressed deep concern over the situation, emphasizing the risk of instability. The European Union (EU) and the United States, primary funders of the AU force, advocate for reducing the peacekeeping operation due to financial concerns. Diplomatic sources and a senior Ugandan official indicated that negotiations about a new force have been complex, with differing views on the mandate. ADVERTISEMENT Hussein Sheikh-Ali, Somalia’s National Security Adviser, stated that the delay aligns with planning for the post-ATMIS mission. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the AU special representative to Somalia and head of ATMIS, emphasized the importance of a conditions-based drawdown. Neighboring countries like Uganda and Kenya, which have contributed troops , express concerns about Somali forces' readiness. Uganda’s state minister of foreign affairs, Henry Okello Oryem, warned against a situation reminiscent of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, while Kenyan President William Ruto highlighted the risk of al Shabaab taking over. ADVERTISEMENT The EU and U.S. support building Somalia’s security capacities, with ongoing discussions about the new mission's size and mandate. The U.S. has invested over $2.5 billion in counterterrorism assistance since 2007, while the EU has provided around $2.8 billion to ATMIS and its predecessor. Despite these challenges, Somalia shows progress, with improved security in Mogadishu. However, analysts warn that al Shabaab's estimated 7,000-12,000 fighters remain a significant threat. The international community is committed to supporting Somalia’s security efforts to ensure long-term stability. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Tags

Libyan prosecutors probe Saif al-Islam Gaddafi’s killing as rival authorities and militias face new pressure in a divided state. Libyan prosecutors have opened an investigation into the killing of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the 53-year-old son of former leader Muammar Gaddafi an event that lands in the middle of Libya’s long-running political deadlock and could intensify competition among rival power centers and armed groups based on initial reporting by the BBC . Authorities said Saif al-Islam died from gunshot wounds and that efforts were under way to identify the attackers. His office described a “direct confrontation” after four unknown gunmen broke into his home in Zintan, a city in north-west Libya long associated with militia influence since 2011. Forensic experts were dispatched to Zintan as part of the inquiry. Saif al-Islam’s significance in today’s Libya lies less in formal office than in symbolism and unfinished politics. Once positioned as an heir apparent, he remained a contentious national figure after the fall of his father’s regime in 2011, viewed by some as a potential political alternative and by others as inseparable from the abuses of the old state. The persistence of those competing narratives has helped keep him politically relevant in a country where legitimacy is often contested , not consolidated. That relevance had practical implications. Libya’s attempted transition has repeatedly stalled, with elections postponed and institutions split. In that environment, any figure with name recognition, networks, and a constituency however divisive can become a pressure point. Saif al-Islam’s stated intention to run for president in 2021, before elections were postponed indefinitely, placed him back into the national equation and reminded rivals that “old regime” politics still had an audience. Conflicting accounts raise the political temperature Even the basic details of his death have been reported differently. While his office said the killing occurred in Zintan, another account cited in the report said he died near Libya’s border with Algeria. In fragile political systems, contradictions like these can become fuel driving suspicion, competing blame narratives, and mobilization by factions seeking advantage. For Libya’s rival authorities and armed formations, perception often matters as much as proof. A high-profile killing can be interpreted as a message: a warning to would-be challengers, a settling of scores, or a signal of shifting alliances. Without a clear, credible account something Libya’s fragmented institutions have struggled to provide public debate can harden along factional lines. The militia factor: security and authority are inseparable Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN POLITICS Saif al-Islam Gaddafi killing: why Libya’s politics may shift By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Feb 4, 2026 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Libyan prosecutors have opened an investigation into the killing of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the 53-year-old son of former leader Muammar Gaddafi an event that lands in the middle of Libya’s long-running political deadlock and could intensify competition among rival power centers and armed groups based on initial reporting by the BBC . Authorities said Saif al-Islam died from gunshot wounds and that efforts were under way to identify the attackers. His office described a “direct confrontation” after four unknown gunmen broke into his home in Zintan, a city in north-west Libya long associated with militia influence since 2011. Forensic experts were dispatched to Zintan as part of the inquiry. Saif al-Islam’s significance in today’s Libya lies less in formal office than in symbolism and unfinished politics. Once positioned as an heir apparent, he remained a contentious national figure after the fall of his father’s regime in 2011, viewed by some as a potential political alternative and by others as inseparable from the abuses of the old state. The persistence of those competing narratives has helped keep him politically relevant in a country where legitimacy is often contested , not consolidated. That relevance had practical implications. Libya’s attempted transition has repeatedly stalled, with elections postponed and institutions split. In that environment, any figure with name recognition, networks, and a constituency however divisive can become a pressure point. ADVERTISEMENT Saif al-Islam’s stated intention to run for president in 2021, before elections were postponed indefinitely, placed him back into the national equation and reminded rivals that “old regime” politics still had an audience. Conflicting accounts raise the political temperature Even the basic details of his death have been reported differently. While his office said the killing occurred in Zintan, another account cited in the report said he died near Libya’s border with Algeria. In fragile political systems, contradictions like these can become fuel driving suspicion, competing blame narratives, and mobilization by factions seeking advantage. For Libya’s rival authorities and armed formations, perception often matters as much as proof. A high-profile killing can be interpreted as a message: a warning to would-be challengers, a settling of scores, or a signal of shifting alliances. Without a clear, credible account something Libya’s fragmented institutions have struggled to provide public debate can harden along factional lines. ADVERTISEMENT The militia factor: security and authority are inseparable Libya has, for years, been split among competing centers of power and local armed groups. That reality turns any major political event into a security question. Saif al-Islam was previously held by a militia in Zintan for years after 2011 and later released under an amnesty law, underscoring how coercive power has frequently rested outside unified state command. His killing therefore tests more than criminal accountability; it tests authority itself. If prosecutors cannot credibly establish what happened and who is responsible it reinforces the perception that violence can reshape the political landscape without consequence. That perception can embolden spoilers, weaken already-strained public trust, and complicate any future election roadmap. Legal shadow and international pressure Saif al-Islam also carried a long legal and diplomatic burden. The International Criminal Court has sought him for alleged crimes against humanity connected to the 2011 crackdown, and the ICC case has remained tied to broader questions about accountability in post-Gaddafi Libya. His death may reshape those accountability debates in two ways. First, it closes off any possibility however remote of a trial that could establish an authoritative record. Second, it may intensify scrutiny of Libya’s security environment and judicial capacity, particularly if the investigation falters or becomes politicized. International actors watching Libya’s trajectory may read the killing as another indicator that the state remains unable to guarantee security for high-profile figures, let alone manage national elections. ADVERTISEMENT TRENDING NOW How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Tax and Revenue Niger TV Shows Soldiers Detained After Niamey Mutiny . Justice & Crime KAA Warns of Flight Delays at Kenyan Airports . Transport and Airlines POPULAR TODAY Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . International Relations Ndayishimiye Backs Leopards After Historic Draw With Portugal . What happens next and why it matters For now, prosecutors say the investigation is ongoing and focused on identifying the gunmen. The key political question is whether the inquiry produces results that are accepted across Libya’s divided landscape or whether it becomes another disputed process that deepens mistrust. Either way, Saif al-Islam’s death removes one potential pole from Libya’s fragmented political map, but it does not remove the forces that made him relevant: a stalled transition, divided institutions, and a security order shaped by armed groups. In that context, the aftermath could be destabilizing not only because of who he was, but because of what the killing reveals about who holds power and how it is exercised. ADVERTISEMENT RELATED ARTICLE Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress What otjize, jewelry, hairstyles, and clothing represent in Himba culture . Tags Africa Africa Libya Libya Pan-Africanism Pan-Africanism africa africa