GES has set October 30, 2026 for first-term capitation grants to reach basic schools. See who must act and why district transfers are not school receipts. ACCRA, 19 October 2026 — The Ghana Education Service has directed Regional Directors of Education to ensure that first-term capitation grants for the 2026/2027 academic year reach beneficiary basic schools on or before Friday, 30 October 2026. The instruction follows what GES describes as the transfer of funds into District Education Directorate accounts for onward disbursement. A headquarters team is due to monitor the process in the first week of November. For school heads, the important distinction is between money released to a district and money actually received by their school. What is Ghana’s school-grant deadline? GES has directed education authorities to transfer first-term capitation grants to beneficiary basic schools by Friday, 30 October 2026. This is an administrative disbursement deadline, rather than a grant application deadline for families. Transfers into district accounts do not, by themselves, establish that every school has received its allocation. Who must act by October 30? The letter is addressed to Regional Directors of Education. It asks them to ensure that the money moves from district accounts to the schools for which it is intended. JoyNews’s report on the directive identifies the funding as the first-term Capitation Grant for the 2026/2027 academic year. The deadline concerns the onward transfer of those funds, rather than a new application process. For parents and pupils, the announcement therefore concerns school funding administration. It should not be read as an instruction to register for a personal payment or submit an application before October 30. Regional oversight and district disbursement are separate parts of the process. A national announcement that funds have been released is important, but a school still needs to establish whether its own allocation has arrived. According to ChannelOne’s account , the directive follows transfers into the accounts of District Education Directorates. GES says regional officials must ensure that beneficiary schools receive the money in time to carry out their planned activities. Continue Reading Full Article EDUCATION Ghana School Grants: What the October 30 Deadline Covers By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 19, 2026 Oct 19, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: ACCRA, 19 October 2026 — The Ghana Education Service has directed Regional Directors of Education to ensure that first-term capitation grants for the 2026/2027 academic year reach beneficiary basic schools on or before Friday, 30 October 2026. The instruction follows what GES describes as the transfer of funds into District Education Directorate accounts for onward disbursement. A headquarters team is due to monitor the process in the first week of November. For school heads, the important distinction is between money released to a district and money actually received by their school. What is Ghana’s school-grant deadline? GES has directed education authorities to transfer first-term capitation grants to beneficiary basic schools by Friday, 30 October 2026. This is an administrative disbursement deadline, rather than a grant application deadline for families. Transfers into district accounts do not, by themselves, establish that every school has received its allocation. Who must act by October 30? The letter is addressed to Regional Directors of Education. It asks them to ensure that the money moves from district accounts to the schools for which it is intended. JoyNews’s report on the directive identifies the funding as the first-term Capitation Grant for the 2026/2027 academic year. The deadline concerns the onward transfer of those funds, rather than a new application process. ADVERTISEMENT For parents and pupils, the announcement therefore concerns school funding administration. It should not be read as an instruction to register for a personal payment or submit an application before October 30. Regional oversight and district disbursement are separate parts of the process. A national announcement that funds have been released is important, but a school still needs to establish whether its own allocation has arrived. According to ChannelOne’s account , the directive follows transfers into the accounts of District Education Directorates. GES says regional officials must ensure that beneficiary schools receive the money in time to carry out their planned activities. There are also separate administrative components. Transfers to district accounts include the Sports and Culture component allocated to district offices. The corresponding regional allocations have been transferred to designated regional accounts. Those distinctions help explain why a single reference to funds being released does not describe every stage of the payment chain. District allocations, regional components and school receipts need to be identified separately when officials explain implementation. ADVERTISEMENT What school heads can check now School heads seeking clarity can ask their district education office to confirm the amount allocated to their school, the transfer status and the expected receipt date. The useful evidence is a school-specific payment record that can be matched against the school’s account. A practical preparation checklist is to: Confirm that the payment relates to the first term of 2026/2027. Check the school name and relevant account details against district records. Record the amount received, the payment date and the transaction reference. Ask for clarification if an expected allocation has not appeared. Keep correspondence about any difference between the expected and received amounts. These checks support accurate record-keeping; they are not additional application requirements announced by GES. A school awaiting clarification should distinguish an expected payment from one already credited when explaining its position to staff or parents. Monitoring is planned for early November ModernGhana’s report records the planned headquarters visits in the first week of November. The monitoring is intended to follow the October 30 disbursement deadline. The sequence creates two different milestones: completing the transfer to schools, then checking implementation. The monitoring visit is not a replacement deadline allowing districts to wait until November to release funds. 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 Job & Opportunity Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Tech Trends Mahama Backs TraffiTech, Calls for Speed-Camera Warning Signs . Transport and Logistics Ghana Transport Shutdown Claim: What Is Confirmed? . Community Safety TraffiTech-GH Motorist Guide: Tickets, Payments and Appeals . Business & Investment Ghana textile policy: from investment targets to factory work . ADVERTISEMENT For school managers, keeping the transfer record and any unresolved correspondence together will make it easier to explain what has been received and what remains outstanding. Regional officials, meanwhile, will need to distinguish completed payments from transfers still being processed. Where to seek clarification Questions about a particular school’s allocation are best directed first to the district education office responsible for the transfer. Schools can use their established administrative channels to seek written clarification and raise unresolved questions through regional management. The GES contact page also lists headquarters contact information, including info@ges.gov.gh . Any enquiry should identify the school, district and grant period clearly, while explaining the specific payment question. As October 30 approaches, the next meaningful update will be evidence of onward disbursement to beneficiary schools. The announcement establishes GES’s instruction and its account of district-level transfers; it is not a school-by-school receipt confirmation. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Job & Opportunity Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs Certificate recognition could widen opportunities, but hiring and Canadian approvals remain separate. . Tech Trends Mahama Backs TraffiTech, Calls for Speed-Camera Warning Signs President defends road-safety cameras as drivers question fines, signage and road conditions. . Transport and Logistics Ghana Transport Shutdown Claim: What Is Confirmed? Operators threatened to park vehicles over TraffiTech-GH; a nationwide stoppage is unconfirmed. . Community Safety TraffiTech-GH Motorist Guide: Tickets, Payments and Appeals How to check a traffic notice, review the evidence and respond within the stated deadline. . Tags Ghana News Ghana News Breaking News Breaking News Ghana Ghana

Travis Kelce reportedly cried as he exchanged wedding vows with Taylor Swift at Madison Square Garden. Travis Kelce may be one of the toughest men in American football, but his wedding vows to Taylor Swift reportedly brought out a much softer side. According to Page Six, guests at the couple’s Madison Square Garden wedding said Kelce became emotional during the ceremony, with some attendees noting that he appeared more tearful than Swift as they exchanged personal vows. The pop superstar and the Kansas City Chiefs tight end got married on Friday, July 3, 2026, in New York City. ABC News reported that Swift’s representative confirmed the wedding, which was officiated by actor and comedian Adam Sandler. The ceremony brought together sports, music and Hollywood in one of the year’s biggest celebrity events. Reports say the wedding took place inside Madison Square Garden, a venue deeply connected to live entertainment and one of New York’s most iconic stages. What made the moment stand out was not just the scale of the guest list, but the emotion at the altar. Swift reportedly sang part of her vows, while Kelce struggled to hold back tears as the couple shared their promises in front of friends and family. For fans, the image of Travis Kelce crying during Taylor Swift’s wedding vows adds another chapter to a relationship that has already crossed music, sport and pop culture. Their romance has been followed closely by Swifties, NFL fans and celebrity watchers across the world. The wedding also matters because it shows how strongly celebrity culture now moves across different spaces. A global pop star, an NFL champion, a Hollywood actor officiating, and Madison Square Garden as the setting — this was more than a private ceremony. It was a pop culture event. Still, the most talked-about detail was simple: Kelce got emotional. Behind the glamour, the fashion and the famous faces, the biggest story was a groom moved by the moment. In the end, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce ’ s wedding was not only about star power. It was about a very public couple sharing a deeply personal moment, and for many fans, Kelce’s tears made the ceremony feel even more real. ENTERTAINMENT Travis Kelce Tears Up During Taylor Swift Wedding Vows By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jul 6, 2026 Jul 6, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Travis Kelce may be one of the toughest men in American football, but his wedding vows to Taylor Swift reportedly brought out a much softer side. According to Page Six, guests at the couple’s Madison Square Garden wedding said Kelce became emotional during the ceremony, with some attendees noting that he appeared more tearful than Swift as they exchanged personal vows. The pop superstar and the Kansas City Chiefs tight end got married on Friday, July 3, 2026, in New York City. ABC News reported that Swift’s representative confirmed the wedding, which was officiated by actor and comedian Adam Sandler. ADVERTISEMENT The ceremony brought together sports, music and Hollywood in one of the year’s biggest celebrity events. Reports say the wedding took place inside Madison Square Garden, a venue deeply connected to live entertainment and one of New York’s most iconic stages. What made the moment stand out was not just the scale of the guest list, but the emotion at the altar. Swift reportedly sang part of her vows, while Kelce struggled to hold back tears as the couple shared their promises in front of friends and family. ADVERTISEMENT For fans, the image of Travis Kelce crying during Taylor Swift’s wedding vows adds another chapter to a relationship that has already crossed music, sport and pop culture. Their romance has been followed closely by Swifties, NFL fans and celebrity watchers across the world. The wedding also matters because it shows how strongly celebrity culture now moves across different spaces. A global pop star, an NFL champion, a Hollywood actor officiating, and Madison Square Garden as the setting — this was more than a private ceremony. It was a pop culture event. 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 Still, the most talked-about detail was simple: Kelce got emotional. Behind the glamour, the fashion and the famous faces, the biggest story was a groom moved by the moment. In the end, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce ’ s wedding was not only about star power. It was about a very public couple sharing a deeply personal moment, and for many fans, Kelce’s tears made the ceremony feel even more real. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

Maître Gims faces investigation over alleged money laundering linked to a 117-house real estate project in Morocco. French-based rapper of Congolese origin, Gandhi Djuna, popularly known as Maître Gims, is under investigation over alleged financial crimes linked to a real estate project in Morocco. According to reports , the artist was arrested on March 25, 2026, upon arrival at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport by French anti-fraud authorities. He is being investigated for suspected money laundering and alleged links to organised criminal networks. Gims was held in custody for 48 hours before being released on March 27 under judicial supervision, a legal condition that allows temporary release while investigations continue under strict restrictions. Authorities believe the case is connected to a wider international network suspected of financial crimes dating back to 2023. Investigators are examining transactions allegedly used to channel illicit funds into real estate investments across multiple countries. One of the projects under scrutiny is a luxury housing development known as Sunset Village Private Residences , located near Marrakech in Morocco. The development reportedly includes 117 high-end homes built around a large artificial lagoon spanning approximately 3,000 square metres. Gims has previously appeared in promotional materials for the project, showcasing amenities such as sports facilities, spa services, and recreational infrastructure. French prosecutors handling organised crime and financial investigations have indicated that the case involves a network of over 2,000 companies allegedly linked to illicit financial activities, making it one of the significant ongoing financial crime probes in the country. The investigation could have implications for Gims’ public image, as he remains one of the most commercially successful artists in France, with multiple chart-topping albums and international collaborations. SOURCE: InyaRwanda Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Maître Gims Investigated Over Morocco Housing Project By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 30, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: French-based rapper of Congolese origin, Gandhi Djuna, popularly known as Maître Gims, is under investigation over alleged financial crimes linked to a real estate project in Morocco. According to reports , the artist was arrested on March 25, 2026, upon arrival at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport by French anti-fraud authorities. He is being investigated for suspected money laundering and alleged links to organised criminal networks. Gims was held in custody for 48 hours before being released on March 27 under judicial supervision, a legal condition that allows temporary release while investigations continue under strict restrictions. ADVERTISEMENT Authorities believe the case is connected to a wider international network suspected of financial crimes dating back to 2023. Investigators are examining transactions allegedly used to channel illicit funds into real estate investments across multiple countries. One of the projects under scrutiny is a luxury housing development known as Sunset Village Private Residences , located near Marrakech in Morocco. The development reportedly includes 117 high-end homes built around a large artificial lagoon spanning approximately 3,000 square metres. ADVERTISEMENT Gims has previously appeared in promotional materials for the project, showcasing amenities such as sports facilities, spa services, and recreational infrastructure. French prosecutors handling organised crime and financial investigations have indicated that the case involves a network of over 2,000 companies allegedly linked to illicit financial activities, making it one of the significant ongoing financial crime probes in the country. The investigation could have implications for Gims’ public image, as he remains one of the most commercially successful artists in France, with multiple chart-topping albums and international collaborations. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT SOURCE: InyaRwanda ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment France France

At least five protesters were shot dead by police in Kenya, and parts of the parliament building in Nairobi were set ablaze during escalating demonstrations against new tax proposals. An angry crowd broke through police lines, storming and vandalizing the interior of the parliament. The ceremonial mace was also stolen. President William Ruto, addressing the nation, vowed to use all means to "thwart any attempts by dangerous criminals to undermine the security and stability of our country" and deployed the military to quell the unrest. Protests against the finance bill, which includes several tax hikes, have been ongoing for days but intensified on Tuesday after MPs passed an amended version. Police responded with live ammunition, killing at least five people, according to the Kenya Medical Association. A BBC reporter at the scene saw bodies lying in pools of blood on the streets. Protesters voiced their outrage over the proposed taxes, including a 16% tax on bread and sanitary pads. Hundreds were reportedly injured, including from rubber bullets and tear gas. Soldiers forced doctors out of a medical camp set up at a Nairobi cathedral to tend to injured protesters, and another temporary unit was established outside Kenyatta National Hospital's emergency unit. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta urged dialogue, emphasizing that leaders should recognize their power comes from the people. Despite some concessions in the amended bill, protesters demanded its complete withdrawal. The protests have garnered international attention, with support from prominent African figures such as Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine and South African politician Julius Malema. Western countries have expressed concern over the violence and called for calm. By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 25, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: At least five protesters were shot dead by police in Kenya, and parts of the parliament building in Nairobi were set ablaze during escalating demonstrations against new tax proposals. An angry crowd broke through police lines, storming and vandalizing the interior of the parliament. The ceremonial mace was also stolen. President William Ruto, addressing the nation, vowed to use all means to "thwart any attempts by dangerous criminals to undermine the security and stability of our country" and deployed the military to quell the unrest. ADVERTISEMENT Protests against the finance bill, which includes several tax hikes, have been ongoing for days but intensified on Tuesday after MPs passed an amended version. Police responded with live ammunition, killing at least five people, according to the Kenya Medical Association. A BBC reporter at the scene saw bodies lying in pools of blood on the streets. Protesters voiced their outrage over the proposed taxes, including a 16% tax on bread and sanitary pads. Hundreds were reportedly injured, including from rubber bullets and tear gas. Soldiers forced doctors out of a medical camp set up at a Nairobi cathedral to tend to injured protesters, and another temporary unit was established outside Kenyatta National Hospital's emergency unit. ADVERTISEMENT Former President Uhuru Kenyatta urged dialogue, emphasizing that leaders should recognize their power comes from the people. Despite some concessions in the amended bill, protesters demanded its complete withdrawal. The protests have garnered international attention, with support from prominent African figures such as Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine and South African politician Julius Malema. Western countries have expressed concern over the violence and called for calm. 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

Rafiu Durosinmi biography: Meet Genk's new Nigerian striker, including his age, height, career, stats, transfer and Super Eagles record. Rafiu Durosinmi is the latest Nigerian striker to join KRC Genk, a Belgian club with a long record of developing African talent. Genk confirmed on July 23, 2026, that the 23-year-old centre-forward had arrived from Italian side Pisa. He signed a four-year contract that runs until the end of June 2030. The move has pushed searches for the Rafiu Durosinmi biography, age, nationality, height, statistics, transfer fee and Super Eagles career. His path has already taken him from academy football in Lagos to Czechia, Serie A, Nigeria's senior national team and now the Belgian Pro League. Rafiu Durosinmi profile Why Rafiu Durosinmi is trending Durosinmi is trending because Genk officially announced him as its second signing of the 2026 summer transfer window. According to KRC Genk , the Nigerian forward moved from Pisa and signed for four seasons. His contract keeps him at the Cegeka Arena until June 2030. Pisa also confirmed that the transfer was permanent, removing any doubt that the move was a loan. Genk described Durosinmi as a complete striker who combines power, height and goalscoring ability. The club believes he can contribute immediately rather than spending a long period developing outside the first team. His arrival also continues a strong Nigerian connection at Genk. Paul Onuachu, Tolu Arokodare, Cyriel Dessers, Wilfred Ndidi, Sunday Oliseh and other Nigerian players have represented the club. Continue Reading Full Article SPORTS TRENDS Who Is Rafiu Durosinmi? Genk's New Nigerian Striker By Serge Kabongo Sports & Entertainment Serge Kabongo Home Comment Jul 24, 2026 Jul 24, 2026 19 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Rafiu Durosinmi is the latest Nigerian striker to join KRC Genk, a Belgian club with a long record of developing African talent. Genk confirmed on July 23, 2026, that the 23-year-old centre-forward had arrived from Italian side Pisa. He signed a four-year contract that runs until the end of June 2030. The move has pushed searches for the Rafiu Durosinmi biography, age, nationality, height, statistics, transfer fee and Super Eagles career. His path has already taken him from academy football in Lagos to Czechia, Serie A, Nigeria's senior national team and now the Belgian Pro League. Rafiu Durosinmi profile Detail Information Full name Rafiu Adekunle Durosinmi Known as Rafiu Durosinmi Date of birth January 1, 2003 Age 23, as of July 2026 Birthplace Lagos, Nigeria Nationality Nigerian Height 1.92 metres, or about 6 feet 4 inches Position Centre-forward Current club KRC Genk Previous club Pisa Sporting Club Contract Until June 2030 Former clubs Box2Box FC, MFK Karviná, Viktoria Plzeň and Pisa Senior national team Nigeria International debut May 26, 2026, against Zimbabwe Major international honour 2026 Unity Cup Why Rafiu Durosinmi is trending Durosinmi is trending because Genk officially announced him as its second signing of the 2026 summer transfer window. According to KRC Genk , the Nigerian forward moved from Pisa and signed for four seasons. His contract keeps him at the Cegeka Arena until June 2030. Pisa also confirmed that the transfer was permanent, removing any doubt that the move was a loan. Genk described Durosinmi as a complete striker who combines power, height and goalscoring ability. The club believes he can contribute immediately rather than spending a long period developing outside the first team. His arrival also continues a strong Nigerian connection at Genk. Paul Onuachu, Tolu Arokodare, Cyriel Dessers, Wilfred Ndidi, Sunday Oliseh and other Nigerian players have represented the club. Rafiu Durosinmi's Genk transfer explained Durosinmi joins Genk after spending the second half of the 2025–26 season with Pisa in Italy. The Belgian club was looking for a centre-forward who could lead the line, occupy defenders and contribute goals. Genk's head of football, Dimitri de Condé, said Durosinmi fits the club's style because he is dangerous inside the penalty area and can also combine with teammates when receiving the ball. Durosinmi said he wants to become important to the team from his first day, score goals and give everything in every match. Paul Onuachu played a role in his decision. The experienced Nigeria striker spoke to Durosinmi about Genk, its supporters and its approach to developing players. That conversation matters because Onuachu knows the path well. He became a prolific scorer in Belgium after joining Genk and built a strong reputation at the club. For Durosinmi, Belgium offers a chance to rebuild momentum after a short and difficult period in Italy. It also places him at a club where Nigerian forwards have previously succeeded. How much did Genk pay for Rafiu Durosinmi? Genk did not disclose the transfer fee in its official announcement. Pisa also confirmed the permanent sale without publishing a price. Nigerian and African football reports have placed the fee at €10.5 million . Soccernet Nigeria reported that figure and described the deal as the most expensive incoming transfer in Genk's history. Because neither club released the financial terms, the €10.5 million amount should be presented as a reported fee , not an officially confirmed figure. Some reports also claim that Pisa retained a percentage of a future sale. That clause was not mentioned in either club's public statement. What is Rafiu Durosinmi's salary at Genk? Rafiu Durosinmi's salary at Genk has not been publicly confirmed. Neither Genk nor the player disclosed his weekly or annual pay when the transfer was announced. Figures circulating on football databases and social media should not be treated as official salary information. The only confirmed contract detail is its length: four seasons, through June 2030. What is Rafiu Durosinmi's full name? His full name is Rafiu Adekunle Durosinmi . He is usually identified in team lists, match reports and transfer announcements as Rafiu Durosinmi. There is no separate stage name or football nickname that is more widely used than his surname. How old is Rafiu Durosinmi? Rafiu Durosinmi was born on January 1, 2003 . He is 23 years old as of July 2026. UEFA's official player profile lists the same birth date and identifies him as a Nigerian forward. ADVERTISEMENT He was only 18 when he moved from Nigerian academy football to Czechia in 2021. By 23, he had played professionally in three European countries and made his senior debut for Nigeria. Where is Rafiu Durosinmi from? Durosinmi was born in Lagos, Nigeria . He is Nigerian and represents Nigeria at senior international level. His career is an example of the route taken by many young African players: local development, an early move into a smaller European league, a breakthrough at a club playing continental football and then transfers into larger markets. Publicly available profiles do not provide enough reliable detail about his parents, wider family or formal education. Those areas should not be filled with unsupported claims. Rafiu Durosinmi's youth career in Nigeria Durosinmi developed in Lagos before moving to Europe. His youth career included time with Box2Box FC , a Nigerian football academy that has also helped develop other professional players. The academy period gave him the platform to attract interest from MFK Karviná in Czechia. He moved to Karviná in 2021, beginning his European career at 18. The transition placed him in a more tactical and physically demanding environment while he was still developing as a centre-forward. There is limited verified public information about his earliest childhood teams. A responsible biography should not invent a detailed school or family story where reliable sources do not exist. The beginning of his professional career at Karviná Durosinmi entered Karviná's youth setup before progressing into the first team. He made his senior debut in the Czech top flight in October 2021 against Sigma Olomouc. He later gained more playing time as Karviná competed across the first and second divisions. His performances showed the qualities that would continue to define his game: size, direct running, physical strength and the ability to finish inside the penalty area. Karviná gave Durosinmi regular senior football at a young age. It also gave Viktoria Plzeň enough evidence to bring him to a club competing near the top of Czech football. Rafiu Durosinmi's breakthrough at Viktoria Plzeň Viktoria Plzeň signed Durosinmi on loan in January 2023. The club later made the transfer permanent after his first months with the team. Plzeň provided a bigger stage. Durosinmi played in domestic competition and gained experience in UEFA tournaments, where his height and movement made him difficult for defenders to handle. According to Genk's official announcement, he recorded 35 goals and 10 assists in 86 matches for Viktoria Plzeň across competitions. Those totals explain why his Czech period remains the most important part of his club career so far. He did not simply show potential; he produced goals over a meaningful number of matches. His 2025–26 European campaign added to that reputation. UEFA records show that he scored two goals in four Champions League appearances and another two in six Europa League appearances for Plzeň that season. The knee injury and his comeback Durosinmi's rise in Czechia was interrupted by a serious knee injury in October 2023. The injury required surgery and kept him out for about 15 months. A reported move to Eintracht Frankfurt also failed to go through during that period. Long injuries can be especially damaging for young strikers because they lose match rhythm during important development years. Durosinmi had to rebuild his fitness, confidence and place in the team. He returned strongly in early 2025. In February, he scored twice against Teplice and then added a goal and an assist against Ferencváros in European competition. Speaking after his return, Durosinmi credited medical staff, physiotherapists, teammates and family members for helping him through the recovery. Complete Sports reported that he had spent around 15 months out. The comeback is an important part of the Rafiu Durosinmi biography. His career did not move in a straight line from academy prospect to major transfer. He had to recover from an injury that threatened to slow his progress at a crucial age. Rafiu Durosinmi's move to Pisa Pisa signed Durosinmi from Viktoria Plzeň in January 2026. He made an immediate impression by scoring on his Serie A debut against Atalanta. His late goal earned Pisa a 1–1 draw and created hope that he could help the club's fight against relegation. The wider spell was less successful. Durosinmi made 12 league appearances and scored once as Pisa were relegated from Serie A. ADVERTISEMENT The short period should be read in context. He arrived in January, joined a team under pressure near the bottom of the table and had only half a season to adapt to Italian football. His value did not disappear because of the limited goal return. Genk focused on the larger body of work he had produced in Czechia, his physical profile and his potential at 23. Pisa's official statement on July 24 confirmed that it had transferred him permanently to Genk. Rafiu Durosinmi's career statistics Genk published the following all-competition totals when announcing Durosinmi: Team or career stage Matches Goals Assists Viktoria Plzeň 86 35 10 Total professional club career before Genk 150 54 17 These are all-competition figures supplied by Genk . They include more than league matches, so they may differ from databases that show only domestic league appearances. For Pisa, widely reported league figures list 12 Serie A appearances and one goal during the second half of the 2025–26 season. His Genk statistics will begin with the 2026–27 campaign. What position does Rafiu Durosinmi play? Durosinmi is a centre-forward , often described as a traditional number nine. At 1.92 metres, he offers a clear target in attack. Teammates can play direct passes toward him, use him to hold the ball and move forward around his position. He is not valuable only because of his height. Genk highlighted his ability to combine with teammates, while his record at Plzeň shows that he can finish chances consistently when fit. His main qualities include: Physical strength against central defenders Aerial presence Hold-up play with his back to goal Penalty-area movement Finishing from central positions Ability to connect with supporting attackers Direct running that can stretch a defence Genk's description of him as a complete striker reflects the balance the club wants. He must provide a focal point, but he will also be expected to participate in combinations and pressing. How tall is Rafiu Durosinmi? Rafiu Durosinmi is 1.92 metres tall , which is about 6 feet 4 inches . His height is one of the first things observers notice, but it works best when combined with timing and technique. A tall striker who cannot control the ball can limit a team's attack. Genk believes Durosinmi can receive possession, protect it and bring other players into the game. That combination is why comparisons with Paul Onuachu are easy to understand, although the two players should not be treated as identical. Rafiu Durosinmi and the Super Eagles Durosinmi received his first senior Nigeria invitation for the 2026 Unity Cup in London. He made his debut on May 26, 2026, coming on in Nigeria's 2–0 victory over Zimbabwe at The Valley. His performance earned him a place in the starting team for the final against Jamaica. Nigeria won the final 3–0 and lifted the Unity Cup. Durosinmi then featured in the 2–2 friendly draw with Poland in Warsaw. Soccernet Nigeria reported that he had played three senior matches by early June. He left the camp before the following Portugal friendly for personal reasons. Before his debut, Durosinmi told the Super Eagles media team that representing Nigeria felt like a dream coming true. He identified Victor Osimhen, Paul Onuachu and Akor Adams as Nigerian forwards he watches and respects. His next challenge is to turn a promising introduction into a lasting international career. Nigeria has strong competition in attack, so regular goals at Genk could be important when future squads are selected. Why Genk may suit Rafiu Durosinmi Genk has built a reputation for giving young players first-team responsibility and helping them move to larger leagues. The club also understands the Nigerian football market. Ndidi developed there before moving to England, while Onuachu and Arokodare produced major goalscoring seasons in Belgium. Durosinmi arrives with more senior experience than a typical academy signing. Genk says he has already played 150 professional club matches. That means expectations will be immediate. The club is not presenting him only as a long-term project. It wants him to help the attack now. The move also gives Durosinmi a more stable opportunity after six months in a relegation battle at Pisa. If he stays fit, Belgium could offer the playing time and attacking environment needed to recover his Czech scoring form. 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 Civil Society Miguel Masaisai Funeral Programme: Kinshasa Dates and Times . Gaming Trends The 3,500 years of history behind the dice in modern casino games . Sports Trends Congolese Star Merveille Kanjinga Sends PSG Into Europe . Biography Antoine Semenyo Biography: Age, Family and Career . Sports Congolese Midfielder Jules Ahoka Joins Sunderland in Premier League . ADVERTISEMENT What Rafiu Durosinmi said about joining Genk Durosinmi said his aim is to make an impact from his first day, score goals and work for the team in every match. He also explained that Genk's ambition, style of football and development facilities influenced his decision. Paul Onuachu's advice added a personal layer. Hearing directly from a Nigerian international who had succeeded at Genk helped him understand how the club treats its players and supporters. The comments show that Durosinmi is not viewing Genk as a step backwards after Serie A. He sees the club as a place where he can play regularly, compete near the top of the league and continue developing. Rafiu Durosinmi career timeline Year Career development Before 2021 Developed in Lagos, including at Box2Box FC 2021 Moved to MFK Karviná in Czechia October 2021 Made his senior debut against Sigma Olomouc January 2023 Joined Viktoria Plzeň on loan June 2023 Completed a permanent move to Viktoria Plzeň October 2023 Suffered a serious knee injury Early 2025 Returned after about 15 months out and resumed scoring January 2026 Joined Pisa in Italy January 2026 Scored on his Serie A debut against Atalanta May 2026 Received his first Nigeria call-up and made his Super Eagles debut May 2026 Won the Unity Cup with Nigeria July 2026 Signed a four-year contract with KRC Genk Frequently asked questions Who is Rafiu Durosinmi? Rafiu Durosinmi is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a centre-forward for Belgian club KRC Genk and the Nigeria national team. What is Rafiu Durosinmi's full name? His full name is Rafiu Adekunle Durosinmi. How old is Rafiu Durosinmi? He was born on January 1, 2003, making him 23 years old in July 2026. Where was Rafiu Durosinmi born? He was born in Lagos, Nigeria. What is Rafiu Durosinmi's nationality? He is Nigerian. How tall is Rafiu Durosinmi? He is 1.92 metres tall, or about 6 feet 4 inches. What position does Rafiu Durosinmi play? He plays as a centre-forward or number nine. Which club does Rafiu Durosinmi play for? He plays for KRC Genk in Belgium. He joined the club permanently from Pisa in July 2026. How long is Rafiu Durosinmi's Genk contract? His contract runs for four seasons, until the end of June 2030. How much did Genk pay for Rafiu Durosinmi? The clubs did not disclose the fee. Media reports place it at €10.5 million, but that figure has not been officially confirmed by Genk or Pisa. What is Rafiu Durosinmi's salary? His Genk salary has not been officially disclosed. Online estimates should not be presented as confirmed pay. Did Rafiu Durosinmi play for Pisa? Yes. He joined Pisa from Viktoria Plzeň in January 2026, scored on his Serie A debut and moved to Genk in July. Has Rafiu Durosinmi played for Nigeria? Yes. He made his senior Super Eagles debut against Zimbabwe in May 2026 and was part of the Nigeria team that won the 2026 Unity Cup. How many goals did Rafiu Durosinmi score for Viktoria Plzeň? Genk says he scored 35 goals in 86 matches for Viktoria Plzeň across all competitions. He also contributed 10 assists. Has Rafiu Durosinmi suffered a major injury? Yes. A serious knee injury kept him out for about 15 months before he returned to competitive football in early 2025. The next stage of Rafiu Durosinmi's career Durosinmi arrives in Belgium at an important point in his career. He is no longer an unknown academy prospect, but he is still young enough to improve. He has experienced European competition, a long injury layoff, a Serie A relegation battle and his first matches for Nigeria. Genk gives him a chance to place those experiences inside a more stable project. The club expects goals, physical presence and immediate impact. For Nigerian supporters, his progress will also matter beyond club football. A strong season in Belgium could help him compete for a regular place in the Super Eagles attack. The transfer does not guarantee success. His fitness, consistency and adaptation to Genk's system will decide what comes next. But his record in Czechia explains why Genk believes he can become another Nigerian striker to thrive at the club. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Civil Society Miguel Masaisai Funeral Programme: Kinshasa Dates and Times The ministry’s schedule sets a 21 October vigil and 22 October national tribute and private burial. . Gaming Trends The 3,500 years of history behind the dice in modern casino games From animal knucklebones to digital RNGs, discover how dice evolved across thousands of years of gaming . 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DR Congo supports UN probe into human rights violations in North and South Kivu amid ongoing conflict, pledging full cooperation with the international commission. Kinshasa, October 28, 2025 – The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has welcomed the appointment of members to the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the human rights situation in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. The announcement was made on October 27, 2025, by Ambassador Jürg Lauber (Switzerland), President of the UN Human Rights Council. The newly appointed members of the Commission include Mr. Arnauld Akodjenou (Benin), Ms. Maxine Marcus (Germany/United States), and Mr. Clément Nyaletsossi Voule (Togo). Their nomination follows UN Human Rights Council Resolution S-37/1, adopted on February 7, 2025, during an extraordinary session addressing the deteriorating human rights situation in eastern DRC. The mandate was further reinforced by Resolution 60/22 of October 7, 2025, outlining the terms of implementation. Unwavering Support from the Congolese Government The DRC Government expressed its full support for the Commission’s mission, which is tasked with investigating serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law committed in the context of ongoing armed aggression. This includes abuses targeting women, children, displaced persons, and refugees, as well as potential acts constituting international crimes. "The pursuit of justice and the fight against impunity remain national priorities," the Government reiterated, reaffirming its willingness to fully cooperate with the Commission in accordance with domestic law and international commitments. Call for Immediate Field Deployment The Government encouraged the Commission to begin its work in the field as soon as possible, in line with the Human Rights Council’s guidance, in order to document abuses based on the lived experiences of affected civilian populations. A Vote for Truth and Peace Finally, the DRC extended its gratitude to the UN Human Rights Council for its commitment to defending human rights and advancing historical truth, key components in restoring lasting peace, justice, and regional stability. DRC PEACE EFFORT DR Congo Welcomes UN Rights Probe in North and South Kivu By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Oct 29, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kinshasa, October 28, 2025 – The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has welcomed the appointment of members to the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the human rights situation in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. The announcement was made on October 27, 2025, by Ambassador Jürg Lauber (Switzerland), President of the UN Human Rights Council. The newly appointed members of the Commission include Mr. Arnauld Akodjenou (Benin), Ms. Maxine Marcus (Germany/United States), and Mr. Clément Nyaletsossi Voule (Togo). Their nomination follows UN Human Rights Council Resolution S-37/1, adopted on February 7, 2025, during an extraordinary session addressing the deteriorating human rights situation in eastern DRC. The mandate was further reinforced by Resolution 60/22 of October 7, 2025, outlining the terms of implementation. ADVERTISEMENT Unwavering Support from the Congolese Government The DRC Government expressed its full support for the Commission’s mission, which is tasked with investigating serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law committed in the context of ongoing armed aggression. This includes abuses targeting women, children, displaced persons, and refugees, as well as potential acts constituting international crimes. "The pursuit of justice and the fight against impunity remain national priorities," the Government reiterated, reaffirming its willingness to fully cooperate with the Commission in accordance with domestic law and international commitments. ADVERTISEMENT Call for Immediate Field Deployment The Government encouraged the Commission to begin its work in the field as soon as possible, in line with the Human Rights Council’s guidance, in order to document abuses based on the lived experiences of affected civilian populations. A Vote for Truth and Peace Finally, the DRC extended its gratitude to the UN Human Rights Council for its commitment to defending human rights and advancing historical truth, key components in restoring lasting peace, justice, and regional stability. 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 PRESS RELEASE DRC Justice Ministry Confirms Denise Dusauchoy Arrest in Tanzania . PRESS RELEASE DRC and Tanzania Open New Chapter in Strategic Partnership . Opposition Politics Rwandan Opposition Launches Coalition to Challenge Kagame . PRESS RELEASE Debora Kayembe Calls for Bold Steps Ahead of DRC National Dialogue . PRESS RELEASE DRC Condemns Forced Civilian Marches Under Rwandan Occupation . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles PRESS RELEASE DRC Justice Ministry Confirms Denise Dusauchoy Arrest in Tanzania DRC's Justice Ministry confirms Denise Dusauchoy was arrested in Tanzania on August 30 . PRESS RELEASE DRC and Tanzania Open New Chapter in Strategic Partnership Tshisekedi and Samia agree to deepen cooperation on minerals, transport, energy and security. . Opposition Politics Rwandan Opposition Launches Coalition to Challenge Kagame 100 Rwandan opposition leaders unite under ROC to challenge Kagame’s regime . PRESS RELEASE Debora Kayembe Calls for Bold Steps Ahead of DRC National Dialogue Kayembe urges amnesty, co-mediation and trust to ensure inclusive dialogue success. . Tags PRESS RELEASE PRESS RELEASE DR.Congo DR.Congo Patrick Muyaya Katembwe Patrick Muyaya Katembwe

Ariana Grande reflects on late ex Mac Miller’s influence on her music, sharing how he shaped her artistic direction seven years after his death. Ariana Grande has reflected on the lasting impact of her late former partner, Mac Miller, seven years after his death. Speaking during a recent master class at Chapman University, the singer discussed how the rapper significantly shaped her musical development. Grande explained that Miller encouraged her to trust her creative instincts, particularly as she moved toward a more R&B-influenced pop sound. She said his guidance helped her pursue what she described as “the brave thing” in her artistic choices. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, Grande recalled that one of the reasons she wanted Miller featured on her 2013 breakout single The Way was because of his role in helping her discover her sound. “Not only because he was perfect for the song, but I also felt like I had him to thank for finding my sound,” she said. The pair continued collaborating, including on his 2016 single My Favorite Part and a remix of her track Into You , before confirming their romantic relationship later that year. They dated for nearly two years before separating in May 2018. Miller died in September 2018 at age 26 from an accidental overdose. Following his death, Grande posted a tribute expressing deep affection and grief, writing that he had been her “dearest friend” and that she hoped he was “at peace.” Grande’s recent reflections highlight how Miller’s influence continues to resonate in her life and work, underscoring the personal and artistic connection they shared. Continue Reading Full Article MUSICS Ariana Grande Reflects on Mac Miller’s Influence Seven Years On By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 9, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ariana Grande has reflected on the lasting impact of her late former partner, Mac Miller, seven years after his death. Speaking during a recent master class at Chapman University, the singer discussed how the rapper significantly shaped her musical development. Grande explained that Miller encouraged her to trust her creative instincts, particularly as she moved toward a more R&B-influenced pop sound. She said his guidance helped her pursue what she described as “the brave thing” in her artistic choices. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, Grande recalled that one of the reasons she wanted Miller featured on her 2013 breakout single The Way was because of his role in helping her discover her sound. “Not only because he was perfect for the song, but I also felt like I had him to thank for finding my sound,” she said. ADVERTISEMENT The pair continued collaborating, including on his 2016 single My Favorite Part and a remix of her track Into You , before confirming their romantic relationship later that year. They dated for nearly two years before separating in May 2018. Miller died in September 2018 at age 26 from an accidental overdose. Following his death, Grande posted a tribute expressing deep affection and grief, writing that he had been her “dearest friend” and that she hoped he was “at peace.” ADVERTISEMENT Grande’s recent reflections highlight how Miller’s influence continues to resonate in her life and work, underscoring the personal and artistic connection they shared. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

Ghana's LGBT community, alongside human rights activists, is anxiously waiting for President Nana Akufo-Addo's decision on a contentious bill that seeks to impose severe restrictions on their rights. If signed into law, this legislation would not only increase the penalties for homosexual acts—currently punishable by up to three years in prison—but would also criminalize the promotion or support of LGBT rights with up to five years of imprisonment. The bill, which was unanimously passed by Parliament in February, faces opposition due to its potential to further exacerbate the persecution of the LGBT community in Ghana. The President has delayed the signing, citing the need to consider two challenges currently before the Supreme Court. A critical court ruling is expected soon, as the High Court in Accra is set to decide on a lawmaker's petition this Thursday, urging the President to act within seven days. The LGBT community's fears are grounded in real experiences of violence and discrimination. Kwame, a 30-year-old gay man, shared a particularly distressing account with Reuters, revealing the physical scars he carries from a brutal attack by neighbors in 2021, sparked by his sexual orientation. "I was born with two eyes, but this is what I have now," he said, indicating a damaged eye hidden behind oversized spectacles. He fears that the enactment of the bill would empower those seeking to harm LGBT individuals under the guise of legality, intensifying the dangers they face. For Kwame and his partner, who currently live apart for safety reasons, the situation is dire. They believe their safest bet is to leave Ghana before the law takes effect, although financial constraints make fleeing the country challenging. This unfolding situation places Ghana at a crossroads, potentially setting a precedent for the treatment of LGBT rights in Africa. The international community and human rights organizations are closely monitoring these developments, underscoring the broader implications for human rights and justice in the region. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 18, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ghana's LGBT community Ghana's LGBT community, alongside human rights activists, is anxiously waiting for President Nana Akufo-Addo's decision on a contentious bill that seeks to impose severe restrictions on their rights. If signed into law, this legislation would not only increase the penalties for homosexual acts—currently punishable by up to three years in prison—but would also criminalize the promotion or support of LGBT rights with up to five years of imprisonment. The bill, which was unanimously passed by Parliament in February, faces opposition due to its potential to further exacerbate the persecution of the LGBT community in Ghana. ADVERTISEMENT The President has delayed the signing, citing the need to consider two challenges currently before the Supreme Court. A critical court ruling is expected soon, as the High Court in Accra is set to decide on a lawmaker's petition this Thursday, urging the President to act within seven days. The LGBT community's fears are grounded in real experiences of violence and discrimination. Kwame, a 30-year-old gay man, shared a particularly distressing account with Reuters, revealing the physical scars he carries from a brutal attack by neighbors in 2021, sparked by his sexual orientation. ADVERTISEMENT "I was born with two eyes, but this is what I have now," he said, indicating a damaged eye hidden behind oversized spectacles. He fears that the enactment of the bill would empower those seeking to harm LGBT individuals under the guise of legality, intensifying the dangers they face. For Kwame and his partner, who currently live apart for safety reasons, the situation is dire. They believe their safest bet is to leave Ghana before the law takes effect, although financial constraints make fleeing the country challenging. This unfolding situation places Ghana at a crossroads, potentially setting a precedent for the treatment of LGBT rights in Africa. The international community and human rights organizations are closely monitoring these developments, underscoring the broader implications for human rights and justice in the region. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

DRC advances a $491.3 million World Bank financing package for women entrepreneurs, small businesses, education, healthcare and nutrition programmes. The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has advanced a $491.3 million financing package intended to support women entrepreneurs, small businesses, education, healthcare and nutrition programmes. The package consists of $475 million in loans and $16.3 million in grants from the International Development Association, the World Bank institution that provides concessional financing to lower-income countries. The relevant texts were examined during the 96th meeting of the Council of Ministers, chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi. Finance Minister Doudou Fwamba presented the draft ordinance-laws authorising the ratification of the loan agreements and the ordinance approving the two grants. $200 million for women entrepreneurs and small businesses The first allocation provides $200 million in additional financing for TRANSFORME, a programme supporting women entrepreneurs and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The project is designed to help businesses strengthen their operations, improve competitiveness and contribute to economic transformation and employment. For Congolese women who face difficulties accessing financing, business services and formal markets, the programme could create new opportunities to establish or expand their enterprises. Another $200 million for education A second $200 million loan is intended for additional financing under the Emergency Equity and System Strengthening in Education Project, commonly known as PERSE. The programme aims to improve access to education and reinforce the quality and resilience of the Congolese school system. Continue Reading Full Article BUSINESS & INVESTMENT DRC Advances $491.3M Package for Education, Health and Businesses By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Aug 18, 2026 Aug 18, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has advanced a $491.3 million financing package intended to support women entrepreneurs, small businesses, education, healthcare and nutrition programmes. The package consists of $475 million in loans and $16.3 million in grants from the International Development Association, the World Bank institution that provides concessional financing to lower-income countries. The relevant texts were examined during the 96th meeting of the Council of Ministers, chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi. Finance Minister Doudou Fwamba presented the draft ordinance-laws authorising the ratification of the loan agreements and the ordinance approving the two grants. ADVERTISEMENT $200 million for women entrepreneurs and small businesses The first allocation provides $200 million in additional financing for TRANSFORME, a programme supporting women entrepreneurs and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The project is designed to help businesses strengthen their operations, improve competitiveness and contribute to economic transformation and employment. For Congolese women who face difficulties accessing financing, business services and formal markets, the programme could create new opportunities to establish or expand their enterprises. ADVERTISEMENT Another $200 million for education A second $200 million loan is intended for additional financing under the Emergency Equity and System Strengthening in Education Project, commonly known as PERSE. The programme aims to improve access to education and reinforce the quality and resilience of the Congolese school system. The financing could help the government address persistent challenges involving educational infrastructure, learning conditions, administration and access to schooling. The precise provincial distribution and implementation timetable have not yet been publicly detailed. 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 $91.3 million for healthcare and nutrition Healthcare and nutrition programmes are expected to receive a combined $91.3 million. This includes a $75 million loan for the Multisectoral Nutrition and Health Project, known as PMNS. Two additional grants, worth $6.3 million and $10 million—will support the same programme. The health and nutrition component is particularly important as the DRC continues to face maternal and child malnutrition, shortages in essential healthcare services and repeated public-health emergencies. 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

Awuche has died at 33. Read about Sulemana Abdul Samed’s real name, verified height, health challenges, life in Gambaga and legacy. Sulemana Abdul Samed, the Ghanaian man widely known as Awuche, has died at the age of 33. Awuche became a national celebrity because of his extraordinary height. He was often described as Ghana’s tallest man, but his story reached far beyond a number on a measuring tape. He lived with serious health and mobility challenges, gave up his dream of becoming a professional driver and repeatedly needed help to pay for medical care. Through it all, relatives and neighbours remembered him as a generous, friendly man who was proud to represent Gambaga. Awuche’s quick facts What happened to Awuche? Awuche died in the early hours of Monday, July 27, 2026, at Tamale Teaching Hospital in northern Ghana. Graphic Online reported that a family source confirmed his death. He had first received care at the Baptist Medical Centre in Nalerigu before being referred to Tamale for specialised treatment. The BBC, in a report syndicated by The Star , said he was admitted after sores on his legs became infected. A relative, Sulemana Abdul Kudus, said doctors had initially believed he was responding well, but his condition later worsened. His death prompted tributes across Ghana, particularly in the north, where he had become a familiar and much-loved public figure. What was Awuche’s cause of death? Continue Reading Full Article BIOGRAPHY Awuche Dies at 33: Real Name, Height and Life Story By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jul 29, 2026 Jul 29, 2026 11 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Sulemana Abdul Samed, the Ghanaian man widely known as Awuche, has died at the age of 33. Awuche became a national celebrity because of his extraordinary height. He was often described as Ghana’s tallest man, but his story reached far beyond a number on a measuring tape. He lived with serious health and mobility challenges, gave up his dream of becoming a professional driver and repeatedly needed help to pay for medical care. Through it all, relatives and neighbours remembered him as a generous, friendly man who was proud to represent Gambaga. Awuche’s quick facts Detail Verified information Full name Sulemana Abdul Samed, also written Sulemana Abdul-Samed Popular name Awuche Meaning of nickname “Let’s Go” in Hausa Age at death 33 Date of death July 27, 2026 Place of death Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Ghana Nationality Ghanaian Hometown Gambaga, North East Region Verified reported height 7 feet 4 inches, about 223–224 cm Known for Being widely recognised as Ghana’s tallest man Medical cause of death Not formally announced What happened to Awuche? Awuche died in the early hours of Monday, July 27, 2026, at Tamale Teaching Hospital in northern Ghana. Graphic Online reported that a family source confirmed his death. He had first received care at the Baptist Medical Centre in Nalerigu before being referred to Tamale for specialised treatment. The BBC, in a report syndicated by The Star , said he was admitted after sores on his legs became infected. A relative, Sulemana Abdul Kudus, said doctors had initially believed he was responding well, but his condition later worsened. His death prompted tributes across Ghana, particularly in the north, where he had become a familiar and much-loved public figure. What was Awuche’s cause of death? A certified medical cause of death had not been publicly announced at the time of publication. Family-linked reports confirmed that sores on Awuche’s legs had become infected before his admission to Tamale Teaching Hospital. However, an infected sore should not be presented as the official cause of death unless his family, hospital or another authorised source releases a formal medical finding. Some reports described his death as following complications associated with gigantism or other long-term health conditions. Those descriptions provide context, but they do not replace a certified cause of death. What was Awuche’s real name? Awuche’s real name was Sulemana Abdul Samed . Some Ghanaian sources write his surname as Abdul-Samed . ADVERTISEMENT He was better known by the nickname Awuche, which means “Let’s Go” in Hausa. The nickname became closely connected to his public identity after his height attracted attention in northern Ghana and later across the world. How old was Awuche? Awuche was reported to be 33 when he died. His exact date of birth has not been confirmed by his family in the accessible reports. Some online pages list 1994 as his birth year, but that does not align neatly with every report giving his age as 33. XTRAfrica therefore does not state an exact birthday or birth year as confirmed. How tall was Awuche? The strongest publicly documented measurement of Awuche was 7 feet 4 inches , or approximately 223 to 224 centimetres . BBC journalist Favour Nunoo measured him for a profile published in January 2023. The measurement was taken without shoes by marking the top of his head against a wall and using a 16-foot tape measure. That figure is more reliable than the widely repeated claim that he was 9 feet 6 inches tall. Was Awuche really 9 feet 6 inches tall? No verified measurement established that Awuche was 9 feet 6 inches tall. According to the BBC profile republished by MyJoyOnline , a rural clinic had difficulty measuring him because he was taller than its measuring scale. Staff used an improvised extension and arrived at an estimate of 9 feet 6 inches. When the BBC later measured him with a tape, the result was 7 feet 4 inches. Relatives believed he may have continued growing after that measurement, but no later independently verified figure was publicly available. The 9-foot-6 claim should therefore be described as an earlier estimate, not as his confirmed height. Where was Awuche from? Awuche was from Gambaga in the East Mamprusi Municipality of Ghana’s North East Region. He became closely identified with the town. His relative told the BBC that whenever people asked where he came from, he proudly named Gambaga, helping make the community known as the home of Ghana’s tallest man. He later lived and worked in Accra before his health difficulties brought him back to Gambaga. ADVERTISEMENT Awuche’s early life and work Awuche was not known to have been unusually tall throughout childhood. After completing secondary school, he moved to Accra, where one of his brothers lived. He worked at a butcher’s shop and saved money for driving lessons because he hoped to become a professional driver. He said the major physical changes became noticeable when he was around 22. One of the first signs was an enlarged tongue that made breathing difficult. He later noticed rapid changes in other parts of his body and sought medical help. As his height and health problems increased, driving became impractical. Even with a vehicle seat pushed back, he said his knees struck the steering wheel and he could not position his arms and legs comfortably. He eventually returned to Gambaga and started a small business selling mobile-phone credit. How his condition changed everyday life Awuche’s height affected ordinary activities that most people take for granted. He could not find standard shoes that fitted him. A local craftsman made special footwear for him from car tyres. His health also limited how far he could walk and ended his ability to play football, an activity he had enjoyed when he was younger. The BBC-era profile carried by Graphic Online also described an abnormally curved spine, long limbs and a serious skin problem affecting one leg, ankle and foot. Despite these difficulties, Awuche welcomed people who approached him for photographs. He said he accepted the way he had been created and tried not to allow his condition to take away his hope. Did Awuche have gigantism, acromegaly or Marfan syndrome? Public reports have used all three terms, but they do not mean the same thing. The US National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases explains that acromegaly develops when the body produces too much growth hormone. When excess growth hormone begins before a young person’s growth plates close, the condition is called gigantism. In adults, excess growth hormone enlarges bones and other tissues but does not usually increase height in the same way. MedlinePlus describes Marfan syndrome as a genetic connective-tissue disorder. People with it are often tall and may have unusually long arms, legs and fingers, but Marfan syndrome is distinct from growth-hormone disorders. 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 Job & Opportunity Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Tech Trends Mahama Backs TraffiTech, Calls for Speed-Camera Warning Signs . Transport and Logistics Ghana Transport Shutdown Claim: What Is Confirmed? . Community Safety TraffiTech-GH Motorist Guide: Tickets, Payments and Appeals . Business & Investment Ghana textile policy: from investment targets to factory work . ADVERTISEMENT BBC-linked reporting said Awuche had been diagnosed with gigantism and also described complications associated with Marfan syndrome. Other articles have called his condition acromegaly. His full medical record is not public. XTRAfrica cannot independently confirm which diagnosis, or combination of diagnoses, was formally recorded by his doctors. The terms should not be treated as interchangeable, and none should be presented as his cause of death without official confirmation. Awuche’s struggle to obtain medical care Awuche spoke publicly about the cost of managing his health. The earlier BBC profile said Ghana’s public health insurance covered only basic care and that he had to raise money for hospital visits and procedures. His story led to repeated appeals for financial assistance. In July 2026, businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama took responsibility for Awuche’s treatment costs at Tamale Teaching Hospital. He also offered to support specialist treatment abroad if doctors considered it necessary. An earlier referral had indicated that Awuche’s left leg might need to be amputated. After a fresh assessment at Tamale Teaching Hospital, Mahama’s aide announced on July 11 that an amputation would not proceed. The reassessment offered hope shortly before Awuche’s death. Was Awuche married? No reliable source reviewed for this report confirmed that Awuche was married. In the 2023 profile, he said he hoped to marry and have children one day, but wanted to address his health first. Claims about a wife, partner or children should not be published without confirmation from his family or another authoritative source. Awuche’s legacy in Ghana Awuche first attracted attention because of his height, but people close to him remembered his personality. Sulemana Abdul Kudus described him as generous and kind. In Gambaga, children greeted him, neighbours joked with him and visitors regularly asked to take photographs. His international profile also showed the practical difficulties faced by people living with rare or complex medical conditions: inaccessible transport, unsuitable clothing and footwear, reduced mobility and the high cost of specialised treatment. For his community, he became a source of identity. For a wider audience, his life offered a human story about dignity, family support and resilience under difficult circumstances. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Job & Opportunity Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs Certificate recognition could widen opportunities, but hiring and Canadian approvals remain separate. . Tech Trends Mahama Backs TraffiTech, Calls for Speed-Camera Warning Signs President defends road-safety cameras as drivers question fines, signage and road conditions. . Transport and Logistics Ghana Transport Shutdown Claim: What Is Confirmed? Operators threatened to park vehicles over TraffiTech-GH; a nationwide stoppage is unconfirmed. . Community Safety TraffiTech-GH Motorist Guide: Tickets, Payments and Appeals How to check a traffic notice, review the evidence and respond within the stated deadline. . Tags Ghana Ghana

Ekunrawo and Tanzanian R&B artist Jux release ‘Halima,’ an Afro-fusion track blending Afrobeats, Bongo Flava and R&B. Nigerian artist Adeleke Timileyin Tunde, popularly known as Ekunrawo, has teamed up with Tanzanian R&B singer Juma Jux for a new single titled Halima . The track, described by its producers as a smooth Afro-fusion release, is already gaining traction across Africa. Halima blends Afrobeats, Bongo Flava and R&B influences, with both musicians delivering melodious performances that highlight themes of beauty, affection and admiration. The collaboration adds another cross-border record to Ekunrawo’s growing catalogue and underscores the rising popularity of regional musical partnerships in the African music scene. Continue Reading Full Article AFROBEATS Ekunrawo and Jux Release New Afro-R&B Collaboration ‘Halima’ By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 6, 2025 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian artist Adeleke Timileyin Tunde, popularly known as Ekunrawo, has teamed up with Tanzanian R&B singer Juma Jux for a new single titled Halima . The track, described by its producers as a smooth Afro-fusion release, is already gaining traction across Africa. Halima blends Afrobeats, Bongo Flava and R&B influences, with both musicians delivering melodious performances that highlight themes of beauty, affection and admiration. ADVERTISEMENT The collaboration adds another cross-border record to Ekunrawo’s growing catalogue and underscores the rising popularity of regional musical partnerships in the African music scene. 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 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 African Entertainment African Entertainment

Rwanda’s break with Belgium leaves citizens stranded in a visa crisis. Students, workers, and businesses pay the price of Kagame’s authoritarian diplomacy. It was supposed to be a simple trip. In September, Ernest Bayisabe was due to start a course in Germany. Instead, the 24‑year‑old found himself stranded in Nairobi, uncertain if he would ever reach Europe. The Belgian embassy in Kigali, which processed visas for most Schengen countries, had been closed after Rwanda abruptly severed diplomatic ties with Belgium in March 2025. To lodge his student visa application, Bayisabe had to fly to Kenya, pay about €480 in travel costs, and wait weeks with no guarantee of success . “We don’t know if we should hope for this visa, despite all the money we’ve spent,” he told Radio France Internationale. ( rfi france ) “The procedure is longer and harder now.” Bayisabe’s experience captures the human toll of President Paul Kagame’s increasingly confrontational diplomacy. When Kigali broke relations with Brussels in March, it gave Belgian diplomats 48 hours to leave and accused Belgium of mobilising “lies and manipulation” against Rwanda over the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo . Belgium responded by declaring Rwandan diplomats persona non grata and calling the move “disproportionate” The diplomatic rupture was not about protecting ordinary citizens; it was about silencing European criticism of Rwanda’s role in Congo and dodging accountability for alleged war crimes. The fallout, however, has fallen squarely on students, workers, and families who now must travel abroad for visas, pay extra fees, and endure long waiting periods. Diplomacy at Citizens’ Expense Rwandan authorities justified the break as a defence of national sovereignty. Yet the consequences reveal a different story: a regime willing to sacrifice its citizens’ mobility for political posturing. With no Schengen visa service in Kigali, would‑be travellers must book flights and accommodation in Nairobi, submit biometrics and documents at a private visa centre, and then wait weeks for an answer. RFI’s reporting shows that even those with offers abroad are losing opportunities; one worker, Jules Munyaneza, said he had a job offer in Germany but missed the position because of processing delays, forcing him to enrol in language classes while hoping for a new chance . Business leaders are equally alarmed. Christian Knoop, director of a German firm operating in Rwanda, told RFI he wrote to the German foreign ministry urging it to open a visa centre in Kigali. “We made Kigali the strategic centre of our services, and if this issue isn’t resolved quickly, it will impact our activities and those of other European companies here,” he warned . With almost all business visits by his Rwandan employees on hold, Knoop’s letter underscores how Kagame’s diplomatic gambit is hurting the very investment climate he touts as Rwanda’s economic miracle. Isolation on the International Stage Kagame’s confrontational posture has left Rwanda increasingly isolated. Relations with the Democratic Republic of Congo collapsed after Kinshasa accused Kigali of supporting the M23 rebel movement. The African Union and the UN have echoed those concerns, and the EU imposed sanctions on nine individuals and one entity, including senior Rwandan army commanders and the head of the state mining agency, for sustaining the conflict . France24 reported that Belgium severed ties because Brussels believed Kigali had taken sides in the conflict and was undermining European efforts to broker peace . Even South Africa, a key regional power, has warned that further attacks on its peacekeepers in Congo could be treated as “a declaration of war”, prompting Kagame to retort that Rwanda would “deal with” any confrontation Continue Reading Full Article INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS How Rwanda’s Authoritarian Diplomacy Isolates Its Own People By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Aug 18, 2025 May 15, 2026 7 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: It was supposed to be a simple trip. In September, Ernest Bayisabe was due to start a course in Germany. Instead, the 24‑year‑old found himself stranded in Nairobi, uncertain if he would ever reach Europe. The Belgian embassy in Kigali, which processed visas for most Schengen countries, had been closed after Rwanda abruptly severed diplomatic ties with Belgium in March 2025. To lodge his student visa application, Bayisabe had to fly to Kenya, pay about €480 in travel costs, and wait weeks with no guarantee of success . “We don’t know if we should hope for this visa, despite all the money we’ve spent,” he told Radio France Internationale. ( rfi france ) “The procedure is longer and harder now.” Bayisabe’s experience captures the human toll of President Paul Kagame’s increasingly confrontational diplomacy. When Kigali broke relations with Brussels in March, it gave Belgian diplomats 48 hours to leave and accused Belgium of mobilising “lies and manipulation” against Rwanda over the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo . Belgium responded by declaring Rwandan diplomats persona non grata and calling the move “disproportionate” The diplomatic rupture was not about protecting ordinary citizens; it was about silencing European criticism of Rwanda’s role in Congo and dodging accountability for alleged war crimes. The fallout, however, has fallen squarely on students, workers, and families who now must travel abroad for visas, pay extra fees, and endure long waiting periods. Diplomacy at Citizens’ Expense Rwandan authorities justified the break as a defence of national sovereignty. Yet the consequences reveal a different story: a regime willing to sacrifice its citizens’ mobility for political posturing. With no Schengen visa service in Kigali, would‑be travellers must book flights and accommodation in Nairobi, submit biometrics and documents at a private visa centre, and then wait weeks for an answer. RFI’s reporting shows that even those with offers abroad are losing opportunities; one worker, Jules Munyaneza, said he had a job offer in Germany but missed the position because of processing delays, forcing him to enrol in language classes while hoping for a new chance . ADVERTISEMENT Business leaders are equally alarmed. Christian Knoop, director of a German firm operating in Rwanda, told RFI he wrote to the German foreign ministry urging it to open a visa centre in Kigali. “We made Kigali the strategic centre of our services, and if this issue isn’t resolved quickly, it will impact our activities and those of other European companies here,” he warned . With almost all business visits by his Rwandan employees on hold, Knoop’s letter underscores how Kagame’s diplomatic gambit is hurting the very investment climate he touts as Rwanda’s economic miracle. Isolation on the International Stage Kagame’s confrontational posture has left Rwanda increasingly isolated. Relations with the Democratic Republic of Congo collapsed after Kinshasa accused Kigali of supporting the M23 rebel movement. The African Union and the UN have echoed those concerns, and the EU imposed sanctions on nine individuals and one entity, including senior Rwandan army commanders and the head of the state mining agency, for sustaining the conflict . France24 reported that Belgium severed ties because Brussels believed Kigali had taken sides in the conflict and was undermining European efforts to broker peace . Even South Africa, a key regional power, has warned that further attacks on its peacekeepers in Congo could be treated as “a declaration of war”, prompting Kagame to retort that Rwanda would “deal with” any confrontation Against this backdrop, the closure of Belgium’s embassy and the visa bottleneck in Nairobi amount to what some observers call “silent sanctions.” European governments have not formally banned Rwandan travellers, but by shutting down consular services and scaling back diplomatic engagement, they have effectively restricted mobility. It is ordinary Rwandans, students, spouses, businesspeople, who pay the price, not the officials responsible for shaping foreign policy. Minerals Flow, People Don’t The ironies of Kagame’s diplomacy are stark. While Rwandan citizens must travel abroad to submit visa applications, minerals flow freely from Rwanda to Europe and China. In February 2024, the European Commission signed a memorandum of understanding with Rwanda to develop “sustainable value chains” for critical raw minerals, despite warnings that coltan and other resources processed in Rwanda often come illicitly from Congo . ADVERTISEMENT Amnesty International and other organisations have documented that the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda’s defence forces, commits gang‑rape, torture, and other atrocities while controlling mining areas in eastern Congo. Yet the EU has been reluctant to suspend its minerals agreement, prompting Amnesty’s regional director to accuse Brussels of putting profits before Congolese lives . This hypocrisy extends to Kigali. The Rwandan government profits from transiting Congo’s mineral wealth, an economy worth hundreds of millions of dollars, while depriving its own citizens of basic mobility. The EU eventually suspended defence consultations with Rwanda and sanctioned the head of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board , but the minerals memorandum remains under review. The situation reveals a regime more interested in preserving revenue streams than in ensuring that its people can study, work, or reunite with family abroad. A Diplomacy Rooted in Authoritarianism Kagame’s defenders portray him as a champion of African sovereignty, willing to stand up to Western hypocrisy. But sovereignty is not served by isolating citizens or by tolerating war crimes across the border. Belgium cut development aid after the diplomatic rupture, and other European investors are reconsidering their positions. Rwanda, once marketed as a regional hub, now risks becoming a pariah state, its airports crowded with travellers heading not to Paris or Berlin but to Nairobi to plead for permission to leave. 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 . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu . War in DR Congo Tshisekedi: Sanctions Forced Kagame to Pull Kabila From His Cave . Biography Claudette Mukashyaka Biography: Rwanda’s New Auditor General . ADVERTISEMENT Nor can Kagame deflect responsibility by pointing to Western double standards. Yes, the EU has been inconsistent in condemning Rwanda’s abuses while maintaining lucrative minerals contracts. But that inconsistency should strengthen calls for accountability, not justify impunity. The African Center for Strategic Studies notes that South Africa blames Rwanda for the deaths of its peacekeepers and has warned of escalating conflict . Human rights groups have recorded M23’s massacres and the Rwandan army’s involvement. The International Criminal Court has yet to indict those responsible for the 2004 Gatumba massacre or the 2022 Kishishe massacre, further emboldening Kigali. Conclusion: A Strategy That Backfires Kagame’s hardline diplomacy may play well to domestic audiences that resent Western meddling, but it is backfiring. By severing ties with Belgium and escalating tensions with neighbours, Rwanda has made it harder for its citizens to travel, study, or engage with the world. Students like Ernest Bayisabe are forced into bureaucratic limbo; workers like Jules Munyaneza miss job opportunities; businesses lose revenue; families are separated. Meanwhile, Rwanda’s support for M23 and its exploitation of Congo’s minerals draw international sanctions and condemnation. True sovereignty comes from upholding human rights, promoting regional peace, and investing in citizens. Kagame’s current path delivers none of these. As long as Rwanda’s leaders choose confrontation over cooperation, the country’s isolation will deepen, and ordinary Rwandans will continue to pay the price. 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 . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA Trump plans to remove Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA trade benefits starting January 1, 2027 . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu South Kivu accuses Rwandan forces and M23 of forcibly displacing civilians in Katogota, . War in DR Congo Tshisekedi: Sanctions Forced Kagame to Pull Kabila From His Cave The DRC president accuses Kagame of using Kabila's new rebel leadership to disguise Rwanda's role in... . Tags Rwanda Rwanda Kagame's Projects Kagame's Projects