As highlighted in the recent "Digital Economy Foresight Africa 2024" report, African nations are significantly trailing G20 countries in digital infrastructure, a cornerstone for economic development. This disparity underscores the urgent need for a robust digital transformation to harness the economic opportunities presented by the digital age. The Urgency of Expanding Fixed Broadband Access While the surge in mobile phone adoption across the continent signals a positive trend, the report emphasizes the critical need for fixed broadband to achieve high-speed internet access and enable effective digitization of businesses. Fixed broadband is essential not just for enhancing connectivity but also for ensuring that internet services are affordable and accessible to all, particularly marginalized communities. Strategic Initiatives for Policymakers To mitigate the digital divide, the report outlines several strategic actions for policymakers: Expand fixed broadband infrastructure to facilitate widespread access to high-speed internet. Enhance affordability by implementing regulatory measures such as price controls on essential digital services and promoting competitive practices among ICT firms. Focus on inclusive digital access by developing tailored strategies to reach underserved populations, including leveraging Universal Service Funds for infrastructure expansion in rural and impoverished areas. Promoting Digital Skills and Financial Inclusion Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 22, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A symbolic repesentation of Digital Economy Foresight for Africa and possible broadband extension As highlighted in the recent "Digital Economy Foresight Africa 2024" report, African nations are significantly trailing G20 countries in digital infrastructure, a cornerstone for economic development. This disparity underscores the urgent need for a robust digital transformation to harness the economic opportunities presented by the digital age. The Urgency of Expanding Fixed Broadband Access While the surge in mobile phone adoption across the continent signals a positive trend, the report emphasizes the critical need for fixed broadband to achieve high-speed internet access and enable effective digitization of businesses. Fixed broadband is essential not just for enhancing connectivity but also for ensuring that internet services are affordable and accessible to all, particularly marginalized communities. ADVERTISEMENT Strategic Initiatives for Policymakers To mitigate the digital divide, the report outlines several strategic actions for policymakers: Expand fixed broadband infrastructure to facilitate widespread access to high-speed internet. Enhance affordability by implementing regulatory measures such as price controls on essential digital services and promoting competitive practices among ICT firms. Focus on inclusive digital access by developing tailored strategies to reach underserved populations, including leveraging Universal Service Funds for infrastructure expansion in rural and impoverished areas. Promoting Digital Skills and Financial Inclusion The development of digital skills aligns with the growing demand in the digital economy and is vital for the workforce to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Additionally, promoting digital financial inclusion is crucial as it enables broader economic participation and fosters financial empowerment. Investing in digital infrastructure is not merely about technological upgrades but also about fostering an inclusive digital economy that propels economic growth and bridges the inequality gap. Policymakers play a pivotal role in this transformation, and their actions in 2024 will be decisive in positioning Africa on a path to resilient and inclusive digital advancement. ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

In a crucial Premier League match on Saturday, Brentford clinched a much-needed 2-0 win over Sheffield United, with Nigerian midfielder Frank Onyeka making a significant impact. The 26-year-old Onyeka, entering the fray as a late substitute, scored with his second touch of the game, marking his first goal in England's top flight. The victory was Brentford's first in over two months, breaking a streak of nine games without a win. Sheffield United, struggling similarly, has now secured only one victory in their last ten outings, remaining anchored at the bottom of the league standings. The match at Brentford Community Stadium began with both teams showing promise but failing to convert opportunities. Brentford's frontline, comprising Bryan Mbuemo, Neal Maupay, and Yoane Wissa, struggled to break through Sheffield's defense, resulting in a goalless first half. The deadlock was finally broken in the 63rd minute when Sheffield's Ollie Arblaster inadvertently directed the ball into his own net, giving Brentford the lead. A goal from Mikkel Damsgaard was later disallowed for offside after a VAR review, maintaining the narrow margin until Onyeka's decisive contribution. Onyeka, replacing Mathias Jensen in the 90th minute, quickly found his rhythm. Following a throw-in, Kevin Schade assisted Onyeka, who executed a flawless first-time finish, doubling Brentford’s lead and securing the win. This victory propels Brentford to 14th place in the Premier League standings as they continue their campaign to remain above the relegation zone. Onyeka's goal, adding to his two assists this season, underscores his growing influence in the team since his arrival. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 13, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Photo by Gettyimages In a crucial Premier League match on Saturday, Brentford clinched a much-needed 2-0 win over Sheffield United, with Nigerian midfielder Frank Onyeka making a significant impact. The 26-year-old Onyeka, entering the fray as a late substitute, scored with his second touch of the game, marking his first goal in England's top flight. The victory was Brentford's first in over two months, breaking a streak of nine games without a win. Sheffield United, struggling similarly, has now secured only one victory in their last ten outings, remaining anchored at the bottom of the league standings. The match at Brentford Community Stadium began with both teams showing promise but failing to convert opportunities. Brentford's frontline, comprising Bryan Mbuemo, Neal Maupay, and Yoane Wissa, struggled to break through Sheffield's defense, resulting in a goalless first half. ADVERTISEMENT The deadlock was finally broken in the 63rd minute when Sheffield's Ollie Arblaster inadvertently directed the ball into his own net, giving Brentford the lead. A goal from Mikkel Damsgaard was later disallowed for offside after a VAR review, maintaining the narrow margin until Onyeka's decisive contribution. ADVERTISEMENT Onyeka, replacing Mathias Jensen in the 90th minute, quickly found his rhythm. Following a throw-in, Kevin Schade assisted Onyeka, who executed a flawless first-time finish, doubling Brentford’s lead and securing the win. This victory propels Brentford to 14th place in the Premier League standings as they continue their campaign to remain above the relegation zone. Onyeka's goal, adding to his two assists this season, underscores his growing influence in the team since his arrival. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

In a significant development, the M23 rebel group , allegedly linked to Rwanda, has seized control of Rubaya , a mining town in eastern Congo. Rubaya is known for its deposits of tantalum , a key mineral used in the production of smartphones. The Situation in Rubaya Rubaya holds significant deposits of tantalum, which is extracted from coltan. This mineral plays a crucial role in smartphone manufacturing. Eastern Congo has been embroiled in a prolonged conflict involving over 100 armed groups vying for control of the mineral-rich region near the border with Rwanda. The violence in this area has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, displacing approximately 7 million people, many of whom are beyond the reach of aid. The fall of Rubaya represents the embodiment of systemic plundering, where armed groups exploit valuable resources for their benefit. Recent months have witnessed increased fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese army forces. The United Nations plans to withdraw peacekeepers from the region by year-end. The rebels are reportedly advancing toward Goma , the largest city in eastern Congo and the capital of North Kivu province. Supply routes to Goma are currently blocked. Regional Dynamics Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi accuses Rwanda of destabilizing Congo by backing the M23 rebels. U.N. experts and the U.S. State Department have also made similar claims, although Rwanda denies them. French President Emmanuel Macron recently urged Rwanda to halt its support for the M23 rebel group during a joint press conference with President Tshisekedi in Paris. The capture of Rubaya by the M23 rebels underscores the ongoing conflict and the strategic importance of controlling mining towns in the region. As tensions escalate and the situation remains volatile, the fate of Rubaya and its valuable mineral resources hangs in the balance. The international community closely monitors developments in this troubled corner of Africa. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 3, 2024 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: M23 War lord Sultan Makenga In a significant development, the M23 rebel group , allegedly linked to Rwanda, has seized control of Rubaya , a mining town in eastern Congo. Rubaya is known for its deposits of tantalum , a key mineral used in the production of smartphones. The Situation in Rubaya Rubaya holds significant deposits of tantalum, which is extracted from coltan. This mineral plays a crucial role in smartphone manufacturing. Eastern Congo has been embroiled in a prolonged conflict involving over 100 armed groups vying for control of the mineral-rich region near the border with Rwanda. The violence in this area has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, displacing approximately 7 million people, many of whom are beyond the reach of aid. The fall of Rubaya represents the embodiment of systemic plundering, where armed groups exploit valuable resources for their benefit. Recent months have witnessed increased fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese army forces. ADVERTISEMENT The United Nations plans to withdraw peacekeepers from the region by year-end. The rebels are reportedly advancing toward Goma , the largest city in eastern Congo and the capital of North Kivu province. Supply routes to Goma are currently blocked. Regional Dynamics Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi accuses Rwanda of destabilizing Congo by backing the M23 rebels. U.N. experts and the U.S. State Department have also made similar claims, although Rwanda denies them. French President Emmanuel Macron recently urged Rwanda to halt its support for the M23 rebel group during a joint press conference with President Tshisekedi in Paris. ADVERTISEMENT The capture of Rubaya by the M23 rebels underscores the ongoing conflict and the strategic importance of controlling mining towns in the region. As tensions escalate and the situation remains volatile, the fate of Rubaya and its valuable mineral resources hangs in the balance. The international community closely monitors developments in this troubled corner of Africa. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

In this piece, we explore the top 5 rapidly expanding economies in Africa. For further insights into Africa's swiftly advancing economies, stay tuned. 5. Eswatini Economic Expansion in 2021 as per World Bank: 7.43% Located in Southern Africa, Eswatini is bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. Its economy is heavily intertwined with South Africa's, relying on it for approximately 85% of its import needs and 60% of its export revenue. In 2021, Eswatini experienced a significant economic revival, with its real GDP growth estimated to have surged to 7.4%, a substantial recovery from a 1.9% contraction in 2020. The easing of lockdown measures in 2021 played a crucial role in boosting its export-driven sectors, alongside a marked increase in external demand in its key export destinations. 4. Kenya Economic Growth Rate in 2021 as reported by the World Bank: 7.52% Kenya ranks next among Africa's most rapidly advancing economies. From 2015 to 2019, the nation enjoyed an average annual growth rate of 4.8%, significantly reducing poverty levels. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 heavily impacted the economy, disrupting sectors like travel, tourism, and urban services. Despite these challenges, the agricultural sector, a cornerstone of Kenya's economy, showed remarkable resilience, limiting the GDP's fall to just 0.3%. In 2021, Kenya's economic growth rebounded to 6.7%, primarily driven by private consumption and the services sector, both buoyed by supportive government policies and the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. 3. Rwanda World Bank's Reported GDP Growth for 2021: 10.88% Rwanda's economy experienced a downturn of 3.4% in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a robust fiscal stimulus, swift vaccination efforts, gradual relaxation of COVID-19 measures, and a resurgence in global demand fueled a remarkable GDP growth of 10.9% in 2021. The sectors driving this growth included services (12%), industry (13%), and agriculture (6%). After a 5.9% contraction in 2020, the GDP per capita saw a significant recovery, growing by 7.4% in 2021. Projections for Rwanda's GDP growth stand at 6.9% for 2022 and an anticipated 7.9% for 2023. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Feb 12, 2024 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Libya's current account value to GDP 2023-2024 In this piece, we explore the top 5 rapidly expanding economies in Africa. For further insights into Africa's swiftly advancing economies, stay tuned. 5. Eswatini Economic Expansion in 2021 as per World Bank: 7.43% Located in Southern Africa, Eswatini is bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. Its economy is heavily intertwined with South Africa's, relying on it for approximately 85% of its import needs and 60% of its export revenue. In 2021, Eswatini experienced a significant economic revival, with its real GDP growth estimated to have surged to 7.4%, a substantial recovery from a 1.9% contraction in 2020. The easing of lockdown measures in 2021 played a crucial role in boosting its export-driven sectors, alongside a marked increase in external demand in its key export destinations. ADVERTISEMENT 4. Kenya Economic Growth Rate in 2021 as reported by the World Bank: 7.52% Kenya ranks next among Africa's most rapidly advancing economies. From 2015 to 2019, the nation enjoyed an average annual growth rate of 4.8%, significantly reducing poverty levels. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 heavily impacted the economy, disrupting sectors like travel, tourism, and urban services. Despite these challenges, the agricultural sector, a cornerstone of Kenya's economy, showed remarkable resilience, limiting the GDP's fall to just 0.3%. In 2021, Kenya's economic growth rebounded to 6.7%, primarily driven by private consumption and the services sector, both buoyed by supportive government policies and the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. 3. Rwanda World Bank's Reported GDP Growth for 2021: 10.88% ADVERTISEMENT Rwanda's economy experienced a downturn of 3.4% in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a robust fiscal stimulus, swift vaccination efforts, gradual relaxation of COVID-19 measures, and a resurgence in global demand fueled a remarkable GDP growth of 10.9% in 2021. The sectors driving this growth included services (12%), industry (13%), and agriculture (6%). After a 5.9% contraction in 2020, the GDP per capita saw a significant recovery, growing by 7.4% in 2021. Projections for Rwanda's GDP growth stand at 6.9% for 2022 and an anticipated 7.9% for 2023. 2. Botswana In 2021, Botswana experienced a remarkable economic rebound, with its GDP growing by 11.36% . This growth came after a challenging year in 2020, during which the country faced significant economic setbacks due to COVID-19 restrictions. Notably, the revival of the global diamond market played a crucial role in driving mining production upward. Additionally, industries beyond mining, such as public administration, military, construction, wholesale, and retail, also contributed to the positive trend. As the adverse effects of the pandemic on net exports waned and government spending increased, aggregate demand saw a boost in 2021. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT Libya In 2021, Libya’s economy experienced a remarkable turnaround, with its GDP growing by 31.37% . This recovery followed a severe contraction of 23.93% in 2020, which was influenced by various factors, including political instability, plummeting oil prices, and the rapid spread of COVID-19. The significant increase in oil production played a crucial role in driving Libya’s economic resurgence. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Zambia resolves funeral dispute as former President Edgar Lungu is set to receive full state honours despite initial family-government tensions. A week-long standoff over funeral arrangements for Zambia’s late former president Edgar Lungu has finally been resolved, bringing clarity to a period of national uncertainty and emotional tension. Edgar Lungu, who served as Zambia's president from 2015 to 2021, passed away 10 days ago in South Africa at the age of 68, where he had been undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness. His death triggered a sensitive dispute between his family and the current administration led by President Hakainde Hichilema, who was Lungu’s long-time political rival. According to Lungu’s family , the former leader had left explicit instructions that President Hichilema should not be involved in any part of his funeral rites. This demand clashed with government protocols, which grant former heads of state full state honours, including the presence of the sitting president at the state funeral. However, following extensive negotiations, a compromise has been reached. Lungu’s family has now agreed to allow President Hichilema to preside over a state funeral set for Sunday, June 22. This agreement was jointly announced by Makebi Zulu, spokesperson for the Lungu family, and Patrick Kangwa, Secretary to the Cabinet, at a press conference in South Africa. “The family apologises for the inconvenience and pain the delay may have caused, but our goal was to honour the personal wishes of the former president,” said Zulu. He also emphasised the importance of sticking to the agreed arrangements. The late president’s body is expected to arrive in Lusaka on Wednesday via a private charter flight. It will be received by family members and granted full military honours at the airport. From there, it will be transported to his residence to lie in state. Beginning Thursday, the body will be moved to a conference centre in the capital, where the public will be allowed to pay their respects over a three-day period. The official state funeral will be held on Sunday, followed by a national day of mourning on Monday. However, it remains unclear whether Lungu will be buried at the official presidential burial site or at his private residence. Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa urged unity among Zambians and thanked the nation for its patience. “This is a moment for national reflection and collective mourning,” he said. Lungu’s political career was marked by both controversy and strong support. After losing the 2021 election to Hichilema, he briefly retired from public life before re-entering politics. Despite a ruling by the Constitutional Court barring him from contesting the presidency again, citing a constitutional two-term limit, he continued to wield significant influence and remained openly critical of the current government. In his final year, Lungu claimed he was being politically targeted, accusing the state of restricting his movements and placing him under de facto house arrest — allegations the government firmly denied. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 16, 2025 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A week-long standoff over funeral arrangements for Zambia’s late former president Edgar Lungu has finally been resolved, bringing clarity to a period of national uncertainty and emotional tension. Edgar Lungu, who served as Zambia's president from 2015 to 2021, passed away 10 days ago in South Africa at the age of 68, where he had been undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness. His death triggered a sensitive dispute between his family and the current administration led by President Hakainde Hichilema, who was Lungu’s long-time political rival. According to Lungu’s family , the former leader had left explicit instructions that President Hichilema should not be involved in any part of his funeral rites. This demand clashed with government protocols, which grant former heads of state full state honours, including the presence of the sitting president at the state funeral. ADVERTISEMENT However, following extensive negotiations, a compromise has been reached. Lungu’s family has now agreed to allow President Hichilema to preside over a state funeral set for Sunday, June 22. This agreement was jointly announced by Makebi Zulu, spokesperson for the Lungu family, and Patrick Kangwa, Secretary to the Cabinet, at a press conference in South Africa. “The family apologises for the inconvenience and pain the delay may have caused, but our goal was to honour the personal wishes of the former president,” said Zulu. He also emphasised the importance of sticking to the agreed arrangements. The late president’s body is expected to arrive in Lusaka on Wednesday via a private charter flight. It will be received by family members and granted full military honours at the airport. From there, it will be transported to his residence to lie in state. ADVERTISEMENT Beginning Thursday, the body will be moved to a conference centre in the capital, where the public will be allowed to pay their respects over a three-day period. The official state funeral will be held on Sunday, followed by a national day of mourning on Monday. However, it remains unclear whether Lungu will be buried at the official presidential burial site or at his private residence. Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa urged unity among Zambians and thanked the nation for its patience. “This is a moment for national reflection and collective mourning,” he said. Trending Now Brian Mundubile Detained in Zambia Treason Probe . Political Scandals Zambia Courts Closed as Mundubile Faces Election Petition Deadline . Elections Hakainde Hichilema Wins Second Term in Zambia Election . Elections Yo Maps Biography: Age, Wife, Songs & AFRIMA Award . African Culture Popular Today Political Scandals Brian Mundubile Detained in Zambia Treason Probe . Elections Zambia Courts Closed as Mundubile Faces Election Petition Deadline . Elections Hakainde Hichilema Wins Second Term in Zambia Election . African Culture Yo Maps Biography: Age, Wife, Songs & AFRIMA Award . Accountability and Governance Why Zambia’s court seized Dalitso Lungu’s cars and properties . ADVERTISEMENT Lungu’s political career was marked by both controversy and strong support. After losing the 2021 election to Hichilema, he briefly retired from public life before re-entering politics. Despite a ruling by the Constitutional Court barring him from contesting the presidency again, citing a constitutional two-term limit, he continued to wield significant influence and remained openly critical of the current government. In his final year, Lungu claimed he was being politically targeted, accusing the state of restricting his movements and placing him under de facto house arrest — allegations the government firmly denied. His passing marks the end of a tumultuous yet impactful chapter in Zambia's political history, with a funeral process now poised to blend the dignity of state protocol with the complexities of personal legacy. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Political Scandals Brian Mundubile Detained in Zambia Treason Probe Zambia police are questioning the opposition leader over an alleged offence after the disputed election . Elections Zambia Courts Closed as Mundubile Faces Election Petition Deadline Court restrictions come as Brian Mundubile weighs a challenge to Hichilema’s re-election. . Elections Hakainde Hichilema Wins Second Term in Zambia Election hakainde-hichilema-wins-zambia-presidential-election-2026 . African Culture Yo Maps Biography: Age, Wife, Songs & AFRIMA Award Discover Yo Maps’ age, wife, albums, awards and journey from Kabwe studios to Zambian stardom. . Tags Zambia Zambia Edgar Lungu Edgar Lungu

Pastor Adeboye says late-night work led him to stop hiring female secretaries, while praising his former secretary. Pastor E.A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has explained why he no longer employs female secretaries. In a recent sermon, Adeboye cited his demanding work schedule, which often extends late into the night, as the primary reason for the decision. He expressed concern about the risks of being alone with members of the opposite sex during these hours. “From the moment I got to a stage where, at night, I still have to work, I ceased to have a female secretary. Some people think it is gender discrimination,” he said. Adeboye emphasized that his choice is based on practical considerations rather than a reflection on women’s capabilities. He acknowledged the dedication and professionalism of his previous female secretary, describing her as a “wonderful child of God” who served him during the earlier years of his ministry. “But if we are to get a secretary like the last one I had, she was a wonderful lady, true child of God,” he added. Continue Reading Full Article CELEBRITY TRENDS Pastor Adeboye Explains Why He Stopped Having Female Secretaries By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 10, 2025 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Pastor E.A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has explained why he no longer employs female secretaries. In a recent sermon, Adeboye cited his demanding work schedule, which often extends late into the night, as the primary reason for the decision. He expressed concern about the risks of being alone with members of the opposite sex during these hours. ADVERTISEMENT “From the moment I got to a stage where, at night, I still have to work, I ceased to have a female secretary. Some people think it is gender discrimination,” he said. Adeboye emphasized that his choice is based on practical considerations rather than a reflection on women’s capabilities. He acknowledged the dedication and professionalism of his previous female secretary, describing her as a “wonderful child of God” who served him during the earlier years of his ministry. ADVERTISEMENT “But if we are to get a secretary like the last one I had, she was a wonderful lady, true child of God,” he added. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

VSV says U.S. sanctions on Rwanda’s army should prompt wider international action over the conflict in eastern DR Congo. A Congolese human rights group has called on other international actors to follow Washington’s lead after the United States sanctioned the Rwanda Defence Force and four senior officers over the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo . Voice of the Voiceless, known as VSV, said the measures reflect demands long made by parts of Congolese civil society and could help strengthen efforts to address insecurity and reported abuses in the region. The significance of the U.S. move lies in both its legal and diplomatic weight. On March 2, the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control placed the Rwanda Defence Force and four officials Mubarakh Muganga, Vincent Nyakarundi, Ruki Karusisi and Stanislas Gashugi on its sanctions list, accusing the force of supporting the M23 armed group in eastern Congo. Under the designation, any property or interests in property subject to U.S. jurisdiction are blocked, and U.S. persons are generally barred from dealing with the sanctioned parties. For VSV, that decision goes beyond a symbolic rebuke. The organisation argues that similar measures by other states or international bodies could increase pressure on both state and non-state actors linked to the prolonged instability in eastern Congo. The group’s reaction adds to broader calls inside the DRC for stronger external action after Kinshasa also welcomed the U.S. sanctions earlier this week. The Treasury action also included a temporary general licence allowing certain wind-down transactions involving the Rwanda Defence Force or entities it owns by 50% or more until April 1, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time. That means the sanctions regime is already being implemented with a short transition window, underscoring how quickly the U.S. measures moved from announcement to enforcement. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN POLITICS WHY VSV wants more sanctions after U.S. action on Rwanda army By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Mar 6, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A Congolese human rights group has called on other international actors to follow Washington’s lead after the United States sanctioned the Rwanda Defence Force and four senior officers over the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo . Voice of the Voiceless, known as VSV, said the measures reflect demands long made by parts of Congolese civil society and could help strengthen efforts to address insecurity and reported abuses in the region. The significance of the U.S. move lies in both its legal and diplomatic weight. On March 2, the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control placed the Rwanda Defence Force and four officials Mubarakh Muganga, Vincent Nyakarundi, Ruki Karusisi and Stanislas Gashugi on its sanctions list, accusing the force of supporting the M23 armed group in eastern Congo. Under the designation, any property or interests in property subject to U.S. jurisdiction are blocked, and U.S. persons are generally barred from dealing with the sanctioned parties. ADVERTISEMENT For VSV, that decision goes beyond a symbolic rebuke. The organisation argues that similar measures by other states or international bodies could increase pressure on both state and non-state actors linked to the prolonged instability in eastern Congo. The group’s reaction adds to broader calls inside the DRC for stronger external action after Kinshasa also welcomed the U.S. sanctions earlier this week. ADVERTISEMENT The Treasury action also included a temporary general licence allowing certain wind-down transactions involving the Rwanda Defence Force or entities it owns by 50% or more until April 1, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time. That means the sanctions regime is already being implemented with a short transition window, underscoring how quickly the U.S. measures moved from announcement to enforcement. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty Will Democrats support Kagame after the 2026 midterms? Blinken's statements, Biden's Rwanda policy . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution In London, the DRC government spokesperson rejects constitutional politics as a cause of the eastern . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 Four firms will rebuild runways and terminals from Kalemie to Muanda under a Treasury-funded plan . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews Board vote set for December; minister says up to $771 million could follow if approved . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo RwandanTroops in DRC RwandanTroops in DRC M23 Rebels M23 Rebels African Union African Union Thérèse Kayikwamba Thérèse Kayikwamba

A breakdown of why Burna Boy’s Houston concert sparked “flop” claims, what fan videos showed, and what verified data reveals about the tour stop. On paper, Burna Boy’s Houston stop is anything but a flop. The No Sign Of Weakness Tour is his biggest North American arena run yet, launched in support of his eighth studio album and built around a 360 degree stage that plants him dead in the center of the crowd. Ticketmaster and Toyota Center have billed the November 22 show as a full arena experience for the Grammy winner, slotting Houston among heavy hitter dates like Seattle, Chicago and Toronto on a 17 city schedule that treats Afrobeats like standard arena business, not a novelty import. Afro focused outlets from Pulse Nigeria to Africa Hall of Fame have framed the wider tour as a landmark chapter in Burna’s global takeover, projecting over 300,000 fans across North America and tying the run to a year where he sold out European stadiums and reset expectations for African artists on Western stages. What we can actually verify about Houston is more sober and less dramatic than the word “flop” suggests. Toyota Center’s concert configuration tops out around nineteen thousand seats , and in the weeks leading up to the show, primary and resale platforms advertised a wide spread of tickets, from upper bowl seats under eighty dollars to VIP experiences and floor spots averaging well above one hundred and fifty. Backstage in full warrior mode, Burna Boy makes his entrance with the confidence of a man built for arenas. Listings on StubHub, Vivid Seats and comparison sites still showed meaningful inventory in the upper sections close to show day, which points to a night that was not an instant sellout, but none of these vendors publish final attendance data, and they are not authoritative box office sources. Local and Afrocentric media that have covered Burna’s 2025 wins with real numbers, from his historic Stade de France crowd to his projected North American headcount, have not yet released hard figures for Houston, nor have The Touring Co or Toyota Center issued any statement calling the stop underwhelming. Right now, “flopped Houston concert” is a social media phrase, not a documented fact. To understand why that phrase is trending at all, you have to zoom out to the climate Burna is touring through. The wider 2025 live market is hot and harsh at the same time, with average US concert tickets hovering around one hundred and forty dollars and reports of dynamic pricing, monopolistic fees and an FTC lawsuit against Ticketmaster making fans feel squeezed before they even hear a soundcheck. At the same time, Pollstar’s mid year analysis shows per show grosses and average attendance rising, driven by a wave of big arena and stadium runs, even as some legacy acts quietly downgrade or reshuffle dates when sales lag. In Afrobeats specifically, 2025 is crowded: Davido, BNXN, Rema and others are all pushing their own North American tours into the same wallets and calendars, which means diaspora fans who once treated every African giant sighting like a once in a lifetime event now have to pick and choose. Layer on top a Burna Boy who is more combative and inward on No Sign Of Weakness, with critics from Pitchfork to The Native and OkayAfrica noting the defensive tone and repetition in places, and you get a superstar whose aura feels a little heavier than during the African Giant run, even while his stages get bigger. The way Burna has been talking to his audience this year also shapes how people read a night like Houston. In an Instagram post via his album channel, he teased that new music going forward would be “strictly” for people who buy concert tickets, telling everyone else to respectfully go elsewhere, a statement Pulse Nigeria framed as a clear prioritisation of paying fans over casual streaming listeners. On stage, the Denver incident that went viral a few days before the Houston date, where he halted the show and demanded that a dozing fan be escorted out before he continued, was covered by Guardian Nigeria and This Is Lagos as another example of his zero tolerance approach to perceived disrespect, even in a packed arena. That tough love persona travels quickly through diaspora timelines, then collides with fan shot videos that highlight empty seats more than sweating bodies. Meanwhile, his official channels, from Burna Boy on Instagram to Burna Boy on X, continue to push slick tour trailers, tightly framed crowd shots and album visuals that sell the No Sign Of Weakness era as pure victory lap. In that clash between fan footage and official branding, almost any arena that is not visibly bursting at the seams is vulnerable to being labelled a “flop,” regardless of actual revenue or headcount. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT What could be behind burna boy's flopped houston concert By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Nov 25, 2025 May 15, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: On paper, Burna Boy’s Houston stop is anything but a flop. The No Sign Of Weakness Tour is his biggest North American arena run yet, launched in support of his eighth studio album and built around a 360 degree stage that plants him dead in the center of the crowd. Ticketmaster and Toyota Center have billed the November 22 show as a full arena experience for the Grammy winner, slotting Houston among heavy hitter dates like Seattle, Chicago and Toronto on a 17 city schedule that treats Afrobeats like standard arena business, not a novelty import. Afro focused outlets from Pulse Nigeria to Africa Hall of Fame have framed the wider tour as a landmark chapter in Burna’s global takeover, projecting over 300,000 fans across North America and tying the run to a year where he sold out European stadiums and reset expectations for African artists on Western stages. What we can actually verify about Houston is more sober and less dramatic than the word “flop” suggests. Toyota Center’s concert configuration tops out around nineteen thousand seats , and in the weeks leading up to the show, primary and resale platforms advertised a wide spread of tickets, from upper bowl seats under eighty dollars to VIP experiences and floor spots averaging well above one hundred and fifty. ADVERTISEMENT Backstage in full warrior mode, Burna Boy makes his entrance with the confidence of a man built for arenas. Listings on StubHub, Vivid Seats and comparison sites still showed meaningful inventory in the upper sections close to show day, which points to a night that was not an instant sellout, but none of these vendors publish final attendance data, and they are not authoritative box office sources. Local and Afrocentric media that have covered Burna’s 2025 wins with real numbers, from his historic Stade de France crowd to his projected North American headcount, have not yet released hard figures for Houston, nor have The Touring Co or Toyota Center issued any statement calling the stop underwhelming. Right now, “flopped Houston concert” is a social media phrase, not a documented fact. To understand why that phrase is trending at all, you have to zoom out to the climate Burna is touring through. The wider 2025 live market is hot and harsh at the same time, with average US concert tickets hovering around one hundred and forty dollars and reports of dynamic pricing, monopolistic fees and an FTC lawsuit against Ticketmaster making fans feel squeezed before they even hear a soundcheck. At the same time, Pollstar’s mid year analysis shows per show grosses and average attendance rising, driven by a wave of big arena and stadium runs, even as some legacy acts quietly downgrade or reshuffle dates when sales lag. ADVERTISEMENT In Afrobeats specifically, 2025 is crowded: Davido, BNXN, Rema and others are all pushing their own North American tours into the same wallets and calendars, which means diaspora fans who once treated every African giant sighting like a once in a lifetime event now have to pick and choose. Layer on top a Burna Boy who is more combative and inward on No Sign Of Weakness, with critics from Pitchfork to The Native and OkayAfrica noting the defensive tone and repetition in places, and you get a superstar whose aura feels a little heavier than during the African Giant run, even while his stages get bigger. The way Burna has been talking to his audience this year also shapes how people read a night like Houston. In an Instagram post via his album channel, he teased that new music going forward would be “strictly” for people who buy concert tickets, telling everyone else to respectfully go elsewhere, a statement Pulse Nigeria framed as a clear prioritisation of paying fans over casual streaming listeners. On stage, the Denver incident that went viral a few days before the Houston date, where he halted the show and demanded that a dozing fan be escorted out before he continued, was covered by Guardian Nigeria and This Is Lagos as another example of his zero tolerance approach to perceived disrespect, even in a packed arena. That tough love persona travels quickly through diaspora timelines, then collides with fan shot videos that highlight empty seats more than sweating bodies. Meanwhile, his official channels, from Burna Boy on Instagram to Burna Boy on X, continue to push slick tour trailers, tightly framed crowd shots and album visuals that sell the No Sign Of Weakness era as pure victory lap. In that clash between fan footage and official branding, almost any arena that is not visibly bursting at the seams is vulnerable to being labelled a “flop,” regardless of actual revenue or headcount. Before the chaos and the commentary, Burna Boy set the tone himself with a charged dispatch to Houston. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today African Culture Ayo Maff Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs and Street-Pop Rise . African Culture FOLA Biography: Real Name, Songs, Catharsis and Rise . African Culture Young Jonn Biography: Age, Songs, Albums & Producer-to-Star Rise . African Culture Yemi Alade Biography: Age, Heritage, Songs & Grammy Nomination . Nigerian Entertainment Davido Hints at Possible Second Kigali Concert After Tickets Sell Out . ADVERTISEMENT Culturally, though, Houston still sits in a different frame from the stan war headlines. A Nigerian star headlining the city’s main basketball arena again, backed by a North American routing that treats Houston as non negotiable, is part of the quiet normalisation of Afrobeats as a core pillar of Black nightlife in the States. Whether the upper bowl had gaps or not, thousands of people from Alief to Lekki by way of Brixton shared a night in a room built for NBA drama, singing “Last Last” and the new No Sign Of Weakness cuts in a city that once only caught this sound at club nights and day parties. In that sense, the more useful story is not “Burna flopped in Houston,” it is that Afrofusion has reached the phase where an African arena show can underperform a little and still be routine, not disaster. Until we see audited box office numbers or credible reporting that says otherwise, it is safer and more honest to treat the “flop” talk as fan narrative, shaped by camera angles, pricing angst and Burna’s own high stakes attitude, rather than a verified verdict on his pull in H Town. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles African Culture Ayo Maff Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs and Street-Pop Rise Discover Ayo Maff’s age, real name, Bariga roots, “Dealer” breakthrough, album and 2026 music . African Culture FOLA Biography: Real Name, Songs, Catharsis and Rise Meet the Nigerian Afro-R&B singer behind Alone, catharsis and his 2026 chart success. . African Culture Young Jonn Biography: Age, Songs, Albums & Producer-to-Star Rise Discover Young Jonn’s age, real name, albums, awards and journey from producer to Afropop star. . African Culture Yemi Alade Biography: Age, Heritage, Songs & Grammy Nomination Discover Yemi Alade’s age, heritage, albums, awards and journey from Johnny to global Afropop . Tags Nigerian Musics Nigerian Musics African Entertainment African Entertainment Nigeria News Nigeria News African Musics African Musics Culture & Entertainment Culture & Entertainment

Uganda is developing boat-safety regulations. See what is proposed, what the existing life-jacket notice requires and why the fines are not yet settled. KAMPALA — 25 October 2026: Uganda's Ministry of Works and Transport is developing further boat-safety regulations, with proposed penalties still under discussion. Passengers should distinguish those proposals from the ministry's existing instructions on life jackets, vessel licensing, overloading and daytime operation. A Daily Monitor report published on 25 October describes the proposals. Separately, the ministry's Marine Notice No. 001/2026 , issued in August, already requires passengers on outboard-engine boats to wear life jackets throughout their journeys. Are Uganda's proposed boat-safety fines already in force? The new report describes penalties under consideration, rather than a final operative schedule. Existing ministry instructions already require life jackets on outboard-engine boats, prohibit overloading and address licensing. Passengers should follow those instructions while awaiting the final regulations and their commencement details. What the proposed fines would mean Monitor quotes Barnabas Twinomujuni, the ministry's acting principal marine licensing officer, discussing a proposed Shs4 million penalty for operating an unregistered boat. For passengers without life jackets, it reports that a lower Shs2 million figure is also being considered. The reported January 2027 timetable is an expectation, not a confirmed commencement date. Twinomujuni describes consultations and legal clearance still ahead. A final legal instrument is needed to establish the exact offences, penalties and start date. Those distinctions are important for anyone seeing a headline about a Shs4 million passenger fine. The report does not establish one final new fine automatically payable by every passenger today. Nor does the existence of a draft remove obligations already set out in the ministry's notice. The ministry's publication page is dated 21 August 2026. Its attached notice gives passengers and operators separate responsibilities. Boat owners and operators must carry sufficient life-saving appliances and life jackets. On conventional vessels, jackets should be accessible. Passengers on boats powered by outboard engines must wear them from departure for the entire voyage. Continue Reading Full Article LOCAL TRANSPORT Uganda Boat-Safety Proposals: Life Jackets, Fines and Current Rules By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 25, 2026 Oct 25, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: KAMPALA — 25 October 2026: Uganda's Ministry of Works and Transport is developing further boat-safety regulations, with proposed penalties still under discussion. Passengers should distinguish those proposals from the ministry's existing instructions on life jackets, vessel licensing, overloading and daytime operation. A Daily Monitor report published on 25 October describes the proposals. Separately, the ministry's Marine Notice No. 001/2026 , issued in August, already requires passengers on outboard-engine boats to wear life jackets throughout their journeys. Are Uganda's proposed boat-safety fines already in force? The new report describes penalties under consideration, rather than a final operative schedule. Existing ministry instructions already require life jackets on outboard-engine boats, prohibit overloading and address licensing. Passengers should follow those instructions while awaiting the final regulations and their commencement details. What the proposed fines would mean Monitor quotes Barnabas Twinomujuni, the ministry's acting principal marine licensing officer, discussing a proposed Shs4 million penalty for operating an unregistered boat. For passengers without life jackets, it reports that a lower Shs2 million figure is also being considered. The reported January 2027 timetable is an expectation, not a confirmed commencement date. Twinomujuni describes consultations and legal clearance still ahead. A final legal instrument is needed to establish the exact offences, penalties and start date. ADVERTISEMENT Those distinctions are important for anyone seeing a headline about a Shs4 million passenger fine. The report does not establish one final new fine automatically payable by every passenger today. Nor does the existence of a draft remove obligations already set out in the ministry's notice. The ministry's publication page is dated 21 August 2026. Its attached notice gives passengers and operators separate responsibilities. Boat owners and operators must carry sufficient life-saving appliances and life jackets. On conventional vessels, jackets should be accessible. Passengers on boats powered by outboard engines must wear them from departure for the entire voyage. The notice also warns that unregistered and unlicensed boats operating on inland waterways will be impounded, prohibits overloading and restricts outboard-engine boats to 6:30am–6:30pm operation. Those times are local Uganda time. The outboard-engine qualification matters: the notice does not express that operating-hours restriction as a universal timetable for every type of vessel. Travellers should check their actual service rather than assume a rule for one vessel category applies identically to all ferries and boats. ADVERTISEMENT Wearing a jacket is different from carrying one Nile Post's August coverage of the directive explains that passengers on outboard-powered vessels must keep jackets on continuously, while operators must supply the equipment. That creates two practical checks before departure: whether the boat has enough equipment for those aboard, and whether passengers are actually wearing it. A jacket stored elsewhere on an outboard boat does not meet the instruction that a passenger wear one throughout the trip. The same report highlights the ministry's warning about strong winds and turbulent waves during July–October. It is a seasonal warning, rather than a forecast declaring a particular crossing safe or unsafe on a particular day. Passengers should therefore check current operating conditions as well as equipment. An advertised departure or a paid fare should not be treated as a guarantee that a journey can proceed regardless of the weather. Check the vessel and the journey before boarding ChimpReports' account of the existing restrictions also describes enforcement against unregistered boats and the prohibition on overloading. Its report concerns the August notice, not a newly adopted October penalty schedule. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Government Announcements Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Political Appointments Muhoozi Clarifies Uganda CDF Exit Plan: Has He Resigned? . Agriculture Morocco Tomato Export Restrictions: Africa and Europe Explained . Investment Kenya Plans $500M Startup Fund: How It Could Work . Business Trends Killarney Mall Transfer Completed in R397.5 Million Deal . ADVERTISEMENT For a passenger, the useful questions are concrete: Is the operator able to identify the vessel and explain its registration and licensing status? Is a life jacket available for each passenger, with assistance on how to wear it? Is the boat being loaded within its permitted capacity? Does the journey comply with the operating restrictions that apply to that vessel? What happens if weather or a safety instruction delays departure? These checks do not replace inspection by the responsible authorities. They help travellers recognise when an operator has not answered basic questions before boarding. If equipment is missing or the proposed journey conflicts with the notice, passengers should seek another arrangement rather than proceed on a verbal assurance alone. What would settle the remaining questions The next regulatory milestone is a final published instrument setting out the requirements, their legal scope and commencement. Until that is available, proposed penalties should be described as proposals. Operators will need clear instructions about any additional inspection, registration or training process before new obligations can be explained reliably. Passengers, meanwhile, already have an actionable instruction: use the required life jacket and do not treat the debate over future fines as a reason to ignore present safety measures. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Government Announcements Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next Signed environmental grants put local delivery, community ownership and accountability in focus. . Political Appointments Muhoozi Clarifies Uganda CDF Exit Plan: Has He Resigned? Muhoozi says he may hand over Uganda's military command but has not announced a resignation date. . Agriculture Morocco Tomato Export Restrictions: Africa and Europe Explained New permits reportedly frozen, European shipments exempt; West African markets face uncertainty. . Investment Kenya Plans $500M Startup Fund: How It Could Work Kenya's NIFC wants to raise $500m for startups, with half targeted at technology and AI businesses. . Tags Breaking News Breaking News Uganda Uganda

DRC prepares an export task force to take Congolese coffee, cocoa and other Made in DRC products to major global markets. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is preparing a national export task force designed to carry more Congolese products from local farms and factories to shelves around the world. The initiative brings a powerful new meaning to the Made in DRC label. Coffee, cocoa, palm oil, chilli peppers, soy, sesame, rubber, timber and other products could gain stronger access to major markets in China, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates and the European Union. The decision followed an August 4 technical meeting in Kinshasa between Minister of Foreign Trade Julien Paluku Kahongya and experts from the National Agency for Export Promotion, known as ANAPEX, led by its director-general, Mike Tambwe Lubemba. According to Opinion Info , the planned task force will unite specialists from the ministries responsible for agriculture, rural development, industry, foreign trade and the environment. Technical bodies, including the Congolese Control Office, will also participate. Their shared mission will be to strengthen the quality, certification, competitiveness and traceability of Congolese goods prepared for export. One Team to Promote Congolese Excellence The task force will create a coordinated national platform around a clear objective: help Congolese producers meet the standards required by international buyers. For farmers, cooperatives, processors and exporters, this work can open the door to better packaging, reliable certification, stronger quality control and clearer routes to foreign markets. For international buyers and investors, it offers a more structured path to discovering products grown and processed in one of Africa's most resource-rich countries. The strategy also places agriculture and local industry at the centre of Congo's economic growth. Every bag of coffee, box of cocoa, bottle of palm oil or package of dried chilli exported under the Made in DRC label can promote Congolese expertise while supporting value chains at home. Major Markets Are Opening to Made in DRC Products Continue Reading Full Article | ECONOMY Government Prepares “Made in DRC” Export Task Force By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 4, 2026 Aug 4, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of the Congo is preparing a national export task force designed to carry more Congolese products from local farms and factories to shelves around the world. The initiative brings a powerful new meaning to the Made in DRC label. Coffee, cocoa, palm oil, chilli peppers, soy, sesame, rubber, timber and other products could gain stronger access to major markets in China, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates and the European Union. The decision followed an August 4 technical meeting in Kinshasa between Minister of Foreign Trade Julien Paluku Kahongya and experts from the National Agency for Export Promotion, known as ANAPEX, led by its director-general, Mike Tambwe Lubemba. According to Opinion Info , the planned task force will unite specialists from the ministries responsible for agriculture, rural development, industry, foreign trade and the environment. Technical bodies, including the Congolese Control Office, will also participate. Their shared mission will be to strengthen the quality, certification, competitiveness and traceability of Congolese goods prepared for export. One Team to Promote Congolese Excellence The task force will create a coordinated national platform around a clear objective: help Congolese producers meet the standards required by international buyers. For farmers, cooperatives, processors and exporters, this work can open the door to better packaging, reliable certification, stronger quality control and clearer routes to foreign markets. For international buyers and investors, it offers a more structured path to discovering products grown and processed in one of Africa's most resource-rich countries. ADVERTISEMENT The strategy also places agriculture and local industry at the centre of Congo's economic growth. Every bag of coffee, box of cocoa, bottle of palm oil or package of dried chilli exported under the Made in DRC label can promote Congolese expertise while supporting value chains at home. Major Markets Are Opening to Made in DRC Products The government and ANAPEX have identified significant commercial openings for Congolese businesses. In China, the opportunities presented during the meeting included annual demand for 180,000 tonnes of dried chilli peppers and 50,000 tonnes of cocoa. ANAPEX is already accompanying a Congolese agribusiness project focused on exporting chilli peppers to China, showing how national export promotion can connect local entrepreneurs with large international markets. The official ANAPEX report says the agency is supporting the practical steps required to develop the project and strengthen the competitiveness of Congolese products abroad. In the United Kingdom, 99.8% of Congolese products reportedly qualify for duty-free access. The United Arab Emirates has also opened commercial opportunities for nearly 6,000 Made in DRC products, providing another major destination for Congolese producers seeking global customers. ADVERTISEMENT These openings can give farmers, small businesses, cooperatives and growing industries the confidence to increase production, invest in processing and build relationships with international distributors. Traceability Will Build Global Confidence ANAPEX has proposed a modern traceability system using the geolocation of agricultural production areas. This approach can help buyers identify where products were grown and confirm that Congolese exports meet the standards of their destination markets. Traceability is especially valuable for cocoa, coffee, palm oil, rubber, soy, sesame, timber and related products entering the European Union. By preparing producers for new European market requirements, the DRC can protect access to valuable buyers and strengthen confidence in the Made in DRC label. Certification and traceability can also help Congolese products stand out for their origin, quality and authenticity. From Kivu coffee and Congolese cocoa to chilli peppers, sesame and palm oil, the country has a diverse agricultural identity ready for wider international recognition. New Possibilities for Farmers, Businesses and Investors The export task force represents more than a trade initiative. It is a bridge connecting Congolese production with global demand. Greater access to international markets can encourage investment in farming, storage, laboratories, packaging, transport and local processing. These activities can create new opportunities for young people, women-led businesses, rural communities and Congolese entrepreneurs across the value chain. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . Economic Policies DR Congo and Russia Establish Permanent Economic Commission . Economic Reports DRC Exits FATF Grey List After Completing Reform Plan . Infrastructure Grand Inga Moves Forward as RDC-US Committee Meets in Paris . ADVERTISEMENT International partners can also find opportunities to work with Congolese producers in logistics, quality testing, processing technology, sustainable agriculture, distribution and export finance. ANAPEX has already brought together public institutions, private businesses and agricultural operators to strengthen export-oriented value chains. During its July agricultural-export meetings in Kinshasa, the agency encouraged producers and processors to improve quality, expand production and build lasting partnerships with Chinese companies. ANAPEX said it would continue helping Congolese operators prepare their products for international markets and promote the Made in DRC label. From Congolese Soil to Global Shelves The DRC is widely known for its mineral wealth, but its farms, forests, entrepreneurs and processing industries offer another powerful economic story. By aligning production with international standards and building a trusted export system, the government is creating a platform that can introduce more of Congo's agricultural strength to the world. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews Board vote set for December; minister says up to $771 million could follow if approved . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid DR Congo opens a UK investment forum in London with nearly 90 British investors, seeking partnerships . Economic Policies DR Congo and Russia Establish Permanent Economic Commission A new bilateral commission will coordinate trade, technology, technical cooperation... . Economic Reports DRC Exits FATF Grey List After Completing Reform Plan The October 30 decision recognizes reforms to combat money laundering and strengthen.... . Tags DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo

M.anifest says he has never received royalties in Ghana, calling the creative industry broken and urging artists to embrace technology. Ghanaian rapper M.anifest has revealed that he has never received royalties from Ghana throughout his music career, citing deep structural challenges within the country’s creative arts industry. Speaking at the “Protecting What You Create” seminar, which was shared on Instagram on 28 February 2026, the award-winning musician described the local system as “broken, with non-existent infrastructure” M.anifest , who has been active in the music industry for over a decade, said the lack of royalty payments highlights the broader difficulties creatives face in Ghana. “I have not received a single cedi in royalties from Ghana in my life,” he stated during the seminar Industry Infrastructure Under Scrutiny The rapper explained that Ghanaian creatives often operate within weak or, at times, non-existent structures. According to him, this reality makes career growth an uphill task. “As a Ghanaian creative or businessperson, you are dealing with broken infrastructure and, at times, non-existent infrastructure,” he said He added that the situation should not discourage artists but rather push them to adapt strategically. Call to Leverage Technology M.anifest urged creatives to embrace technology as a tool to level the playing field. He noted that digital platforms could help musicians bypass some of the structural limitations within the local industry. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT M.anifest Says He’s Received No Royalties in Ghana By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 3, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ghanaian rapper M.anifest has revealed that he has never received royalties from Ghana throughout his music career, citing deep structural challenges within the country’s creative arts industry. Speaking at the “Protecting What You Create” seminar, which was shared on Instagram on 28 February 2026, the award-winning musician described the local system as “broken, with non-existent infrastructure” M.anifest , who has been active in the music industry for over a decade, said the lack of royalty payments highlights the broader difficulties creatives face in Ghana. “I have not received a single cedi in royalties from Ghana in my life,” he stated during the seminar ADVERTISEMENT Industry Infrastructure Under Scrutiny The rapper explained that Ghanaian creatives often operate within weak or, at times, non-existent structures. According to him, this reality makes career growth an uphill task. “As a Ghanaian creative or businessperson, you are dealing with broken infrastructure and, at times, non-existent infrastructure,” he said He added that the situation should not discourage artists but rather push them to adapt strategically. ADVERTISEMENT Call to Leverage Technology M.anifest urged creatives to embrace technology as a tool to level the playing field. He noted that digital platforms could help musicians bypass some of the structural limitations within the local industry. “You have to use technology as a tool. We have to use technology more than anybody else because that is our equaliser right now, as the system is broken,” he said He also questioned the availability of performance venues across the country, pointing to limited touring opportunities for musicians Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT The seminar focused on protecting copyrights and creativity in Ghana, as highlighted in an accompanying Instagram post shared by zionfelixdotcom Source: Pulse Ghana ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Ghanian Musics Ghanian Musics Ghana Ghana

Biniam Girmay made history as the first black African to win a Tour de France stage, triumphing in a dramatic finish in Turin. Eritrea's Girmay clinched victory in a reduced sprint, beating Colombia's Fernando Gaviria and Belgium's Arnaud de Lie. The stage, a 230.8km route from Piacenza, was marred by a late crash that disrupted many riders, including Mark Cavendish. Cavendish, aiming for a record 35th stage win, was caught out of position due to the crash just over 2km from the finish. He and several others avoided serious injury but lost the chance to compete in the final sprint. Richard Carapaz became the first Ecuadorian to wear the yellow jersey, leading the general classification tied on time with Tadej Pogacar, Remco Evenepoel, and Jonas Vingegaard. At the finish, an emotional Girmay, 24, reflected on his victory. "I would say thanks to God for everything, for giving me all the strength and support," he said. "Since I started cycling I was never dreaming to be part of the Tour de France but now I can't believe it. I want to say thank you to my family, my wife, Eritrea, and Africa. We must be proud. Now is our moment, now is our time. This is for all Africa." Cavendish and his Astana-Qazaqstan teammates were on the right side of the road when the crash occurred. The 39-year-old expressed relief at avoiding injury, having crashed out last year on stage eight. "Something was going to happen," Cavendish said. "You could feel it but you didn't know where or when. I heard it happening ahead so you're on the brakes, you skid and you wait for somebody to hit you from behind. Thankfully we were OK and I don't think anyone was seriously hurt. We didn't sprint but we're safe and that's the main thing." The Tour heads into the Alps on Tuesday, tackling the mighty Col du Galibier on the mountainous 139.6km route from Pinerolo to Valloire. By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jul 2, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Biniam Girmay made history as the first black African to win a Tour de France stage, triumphing in a dramatic finish in Turin. Eritrea's Girmay clinched victory in a reduced sprint, beating Colombia's Fernando Gaviria and Belgium's Arnaud de Lie. The stage, a 230.8km route from Piacenza, was marred by a late crash that disrupted many riders, including Mark Cavendish. Cavendish, aiming for a record 35th stage win, was caught out of position due to the crash just over 2km from the finish. He and several others avoided serious injury but lost the chance to compete in the final sprint. Richard Carapaz became the first Ecuadorian to wear the yellow jersey, leading the general classification tied on time with Tadej Pogacar, Remco Evenepoel, and Jonas Vingegaard. ADVERTISEMENT At the finish, an emotional Girmay, 24, reflected on his victory. "I would say thanks to God for everything, for giving me all the strength and support," he said. "Since I started cycling I was never dreaming to be part of the Tour de France but now I can't believe it. I want to say thank you to my family, my wife, Eritrea, and Africa. We must be proud. Now is our moment, now is our time. This is for all Africa." Cavendish and his Astana-Qazaqstan teammates were on the right side of the road when the crash occurred. The 39-year-old expressed relief at avoiding injury, having crashed out last year on stage eight. ADVERTISEMENT "Something was going to happen," Cavendish said. "You could feel it but you didn't know where or when. I heard it happening ahead so you're on the brakes, you skid and you wait for somebody to hit you from behind. Thankfully we were OK and I don't think anyone was seriously hurt. We didn't sprint but we're safe and that's the main thing." The Tour heads into the Alps on Tuesday, tackling the mighty Col du Galibier on the mountainous 139.6km route from Pinerolo to Valloire. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags