Kenya's NIFC plans a $500m startup investment fund, including $250m for tech and AI. See the funding plan, investor role and what remains unconfirmed. NAIROBI, Kenya - 6 November 2026. The Nairobi International Financial Centre (NIFC) is working on a proposed $500 million (approximately KSh65 billion) investment fund for Kenyan startups and growing businesses. Chief executive Daniel Mainda described the initiative in an interview reported on 5 November, with half the intended funding directed toward technology and artificial intelligence. The proposal is a fundraising ambition, not a fund that has already received $500 million or opened applications. It is a planned investment vehicle that the Nairobi International Financial Centre wants to develop with private investors. The target is about KSh65 billion, with half earmarked for technology and AI. Partners and a fund manager have not yet been selected, and no public application process has been confirmed. Where the proposed $500 million would go The plan divides the fundraising target into two broad parts. Technology and artificial intelligence businesses would receive around $250 million, assuming the vehicle raises its full target. The remaining half would be intended for other promising enterprises that need finance to expand. The split is a proposed allocation, not a published list of beneficiaries or a guarantee that any individual company will receive a specific sum. In the original Business Daily interview , Mainda explained that NIFC wants to co-host an investment vehicle to address the shortage of capital facing Kenyan startups. He said the centre would take a leading role in mobilising investment and evaluating prospective businesses. A 5 November report by Nipashe Biz also described the proposed participation of local and foreign venture capital firms. That is different from a government announcement allocating KSh65 billion from the national budget. The financing is intended to be mobilised from investors through a fund structure whose terms are still under development. Whether it will use equity stakes, convertible instruments, debt or a combination has not been set out in the public account of the proposal. Mainda said the centre had begun selecting a partner to co-host the vehicle and an investment manager. He also indicated that prospective investors were interested. Those statements are encouraging signals, but neither identifies a signed investment commitment, a first fundraising close nor a schedule for distributing money to companies. Several practical questions remain unanswered: how much investors have legally committed, who will manage the portfolio, what minimum business maturity will be required, how investments will be priced, and whether the fund will back only Kenyan-registered companies or also firms operating across the region. No verified application window, official application portal, investment ticket range or closing date was published alongside the 5 November report. Founders should not mistake NIFC's existing business-certification framework for an application to this particular fund. The National Treasury's NIFC explanation describes how firms can apply for NIFC certification; it does not establish a startup-grant or investment application for the new $500 million proposal. Continue Reading Full Article INVESTMENT Kenya Plans $500M Startup Fund: How It Could Work By Otieno kevin News Editor Otieno kevin Home Comment Nov 6, 2026 Nov 6, 2026 9 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: NAIROBI, Kenya - 6 November 2026. The Nairobi International Financial Centre (NIFC) is working on a proposed $500 million (approximately KSh65 billion) investment fund for Kenyan startups and growing businesses. Chief executive Daniel Mainda described the initiative in an interview reported on 5 November, with half the intended funding directed toward technology and artificial intelligence. The proposal is a fundraising ambition, not a fund that has already received $500 million or opened applications. It is a planned investment vehicle that the Nairobi International Financial Centre wants to develop with private investors. The target is about KSh65 billion, with half earmarked for technology and AI. Partners and a fund manager have not yet been selected, and no public application process has been confirmed. Where the proposed $500 million would go The plan divides the fundraising target into two broad parts. Technology and artificial intelligence businesses would receive around $250 million, assuming the vehicle raises its full target. The remaining half would be intended for other promising enterprises that need finance to expand. The split is a proposed allocation, not a published list of beneficiaries or a guarantee that any individual company will receive a specific sum. In the original Business Daily interview , Mainda explained that NIFC wants to co-host an investment vehicle to address the shortage of capital facing Kenyan startups. He said the centre would take a leading role in mobilising investment and evaluating prospective businesses. A 5 November report by Nipashe Biz also described the proposed participation of local and foreign venture capital firms. That is different from a government announcement allocating KSh65 billion from the national budget. The financing is intended to be mobilised from investors through a fund structure whose terms are still under development. Whether it will use equity stakes, convertible instruments, debt or a combination has not been set out in the public account of the proposal. Mainda said the centre had begun selecting a partner to co-host the vehicle and an investment manager. He also indicated that prospective investors were interested. Those statements are encouraging signals, but neither identifies a signed investment commitment, a first fundraising close nor a schedule for distributing money to companies. Several practical questions remain unanswered: how much investors have legally committed, who will manage the portfolio, what minimum business maturity will be required, how investments will be priced, and whether the fund will back only Kenyan-registered companies or also firms operating across the region. ADVERTISEMENT No verified application window, official application portal, investment ticket range or closing date was published alongside the 5 November report. Founders should not mistake NIFC's existing business-certification framework for an application to this particular fund. The National Treasury's NIFC explanation describes how firms can apply for NIFC certification; it does not establish a startup-grant or investment application for the new $500 million proposal. Until separate funding instructions are issued, it would be premature to describe the plan as an open programme, a cash grant, or a guaranteed benefit for all Kenyan SMEs. Kenya's startup sector needs patient investment The announcement comes during a difficult funding period for Kenyan entrepreneurs. According to figures reported by The Star using Africa: The Big Deal data , Kenyan startups raised around $126 million (KSh16.3 billion) in the first six months of 2026. That was down from approximately $227 million in the corresponding period of 2025 and represented the country's weakest first-half fundraising since 2021. The pressure is not confined to Kenya. A July analysis published by Nanyang Technological University's Centre for African Studies found that African startup funding was becoming more concentrated among a smaller number of ventures, even when large transactions kept continent-wide totals relatively stable. In other words, the headline amount raised by African startups can conceal the difficulty of finding investors for young companies with smaller financing needs. The later Propel Africa third-quarter report recorded $712 million across 114 announced African startup deals from July through September 2026. It counted roughly $84.7 million in announced funding for companies in its Kenyan market category during that quarter. These figures come from a different tracking methodology and reporting period from the first-half numbers; they should not be combined into a single official Kenyan investment total. A new fund could broaden the pool of capital available locally, particularly if it brings together investors willing to support companies beyond their first years of operation. But larger fundraising targets alone will not settle the problem of early-stage financing, where relatively small investments and patient follow-on support may matter more than a single headline number. ADVERTISEMENT Is this the same as the earlier $250 million AI proposal? The new figure also follows an announcement made at the Africa Blockchain Festival on 27 October 2026. At that event, Mainda discussed ambitions for a $250 million technology and AI investment vehicle serving Kenya and potentially other African markets, as TechTrendsKE reported . The centre's official LinkedIn communications independently confirm his participation in the festival and its broader investment-mobilisation agenda. There is an obvious numerical connection: $250 million is also the intended technology and AI share of the new $500 million plan. However, the public reports do not establish whether the October proposal is the technology allocation within the November vehicle, a revised plan, or a separate fund. It would therefore be misleading to add the two announcements together and claim that $750 million has been committed. Why Nairobi's financial centre is involved NIFC is a government-backed initiative designed to make Kenya a more attractive base for investment funds, financial institutions and regional businesses. The National Treasury describes its objectives as developing a competitive financial-services environment, encouraging domestic and international investment and improving access to capital for local firms. Its role is broader than running a single startup programme. NIFC wants investment managers, venture capital firms, insurers and other institutions to establish or deepen operations in Kenya. It also seeks to improve the framework through which investors can bring money into the economy and deploy it into businesses. There has been some progress, although outcomes need careful interpretation. In July, Business Daily reported that NIFC had admitted 15 new firms that were expected to mobilise approximately $200 million in investment and create more than 1,000 jobs. Expected investment and jobs are not the same as money already delivered or positions already filled. Kenya has also been reshaping its investment rules. XTRAfrica previously covered new investor-incentive and technopolis legislation , including changes relevant to the operating environment for technology companies. Those changes are part of the wider policy setting, rather than proof that the planned startup fund is fully financed. The NIFC venture proposal should also be distinguished from Kenya's National Infrastructure Fund, a separate institution intended to finance major infrastructure. XTRAfrica's profile of founding infrastructure-fund chief executive James Mworia explains that different investment mandate. The two initiatives should not be treated as one pool of money. 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 Investment Kenya Plans $500M Startup Fund: How It Could Work . ADVERTISEMENT What this could mean for Kenyan and African entrepreneurs If the $500 million target is achieved and a professional investment structure is established, the vehicle could provide another source of finance for companies with credible products and plans to grow. Its proposed technology allocation could be relevant to firms building software, AI products or digital services. The other half may be important to businesses outside that segment, although NIFC has not publicly specified their sectors. Kenyan innovators are already working on problems that require financing beyond the initial prototype. For example, XTRAfrica's coverage of the 2026 Africa Prize engineering finalists examined Kenyan ventures developing cardiac-screening and mobile-dialysis solutions. Those companies are examples of the wider innovation ecosystem, not named recipients or applicants under this proposed NIFC fund. The wider East African significance would depend on actual investment rules. A Nairobi-based fund could attract international managers and deepen the regional financing ecosystem, but the November account primarily discusses Kenyan startups. It does not establish that businesses in Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania or other African countries will qualify directly. Five milestones that will show whether the plan is moving The first measurable milestone will be NIFC's appointment of a fund partner and independent manager. Next will come disclosure of investor commitments and, ideally, a formal first close showing how much capital is legally secured. Detailed investment criteria would then establish the sectors, jurisdictions, company stages and typical cheque sizes. Founders will also need a legitimate application or deal-submission process, together with clear rules on ownership, reporting and investment approval. Finally, signed investments and disclosed disbursements will reveal whether the plan is financing real enterprises rather than remaining a fundraising target. Until those steps are documented, the announcement is best understood as a potentially significant investment pipeline. For Kenyan startups, the opportunity is real in the sense that the NIFC has publicly described a plan; the financing itself remains conditional on investors, governance arrangements and execution. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Investment Kenya Plans $500M Startup Fund: How It Could Work Kenya's NIFC wants to raise $500m for startups, with half targeted at technology and AI businesses. . Tags Kenya Economy Kenya Economy Breaking News Breaking News Kenya Business & Investment Kenya Business & Investment Kenya Kenya Kenya Technology & Innovation Kenya Technology & Innovation

Harrysong says his Nelson Mandela tribute song brought international exposure, awards recognition, and major career opportunities. Nigerian singer and songwriter Harrison Tare Okiri, known professionally as Harrysong, has said his tribute song dedicated to late South African leader Nelson Mandela played a defining role in his rise within the music industry, according to a source article. The artist shared the reflection during an appearance on Celebrity Chit-Chat , a programme aired on Nigerian Tribune TV, where he discussed the inspiration behind the song “Mandela” and how it influenced his career trajectory. Harrysong explained that the song was written during the period following Mandela’s death , when global attention was focused on the former president’s legacy and contribution to freedom and justice. He said Mandela’s life story and global impact motivated him to create the tribute at a time when he was also serving as an ambassador for a major telecommunications company in Nigeria. According to the singer, the release of the song marked a breakthrough moment, earning him the Headies Award for Most Downloaded Callertune in 2013. He said the recognition significantly expanded his visibility and opened doors beyond Nigeria’s music scene. Harrysong added that the song led to his first international travel and later contributed to his first experience attending the Grammy Awards. He said the project helped position him globally, not only as a performer but also as a songwriter and music director. The musician noted that the success of the Mandela tribute created lasting opportunities within the entertainment industry and affirmed his creative direction. He has since remained active in music while also holding a public service role as Executive Assistant on Entertainment to the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori. VIDEO_ How hit song on Nelson M… Source: Nigerian Tribune (Tribune Online interview with Harrysong ENTERTAINMENT Harrysong Says Mandela Tribute Song Changed His Career By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jan 26, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian singer and songwriter Harrison Tare Okiri, known professionally as Harrysong, has said his tribute song dedicated to late South African leader Nelson Mandela played a defining role in his rise within the music industry, according to a source article. The artist shared the reflection during an appearance on Celebrity Chit-Chat , a programme aired on Nigerian Tribune TV, where he discussed the inspiration behind the song “Mandela” and how it influenced his career trajectory. Harrysong explained that the song was written during the period following Mandela’s death , when global attention was focused on the former president’s legacy and contribution to freedom and justice. ADVERTISEMENT He said Mandela’s life story and global impact motivated him to create the tribute at a time when he was also serving as an ambassador for a major telecommunications company in Nigeria. According to the singer, the release of the song marked a breakthrough moment, earning him the Headies Award for Most Downloaded Callertune in 2013. He said the recognition significantly expanded his visibility and opened doors beyond Nigeria’s music scene. Harrysong added that the song led to his first international travel and later contributed to his first experience attending the Grammy Awards. He said the project helped position him globally, not only as a performer but also as a songwriter and music director. ADVERTISEMENT The musician noted that the success of the Mandela tribute created lasting opportunities within the entertainment industry and affirmed his creative direction. He has since remained active in music while also holding a public service role as Executive Assistant on Entertainment to the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori. VIDEO_ How hit song on Nelson M… Source: Nigerian Tribune (Tribune Online interview with Harrysong Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Bukayo Saka has earned a moment of redemption, reminiscent of Stuart Pearce’s iconic performance, but for the TikTok generation. During England's perfect penalty shootout against Switzerland, fans witnessed a scene that echoed Euro 96 in Dusseldorf on Saturday night. England has only twice scored all their penalties in major tournament shootouts—against Spain at Wembley in 1996 and versus Switzerland in 2024. Pearce famously scored the third spot-kick against Spain, celebrating with a fierce fist pump and a roar. Similarly, Saka nailed the third spot-kick against Switzerland, celebrating with a wide, beaming smile, capturing the hearts of the new generation of England supporters. For both players, these moments represented significant redemption . Pearce’s successful penalty came six years after missing in the 1990 World Cup semi-final against West Germany. Reflecting on overcoming his past miss, Saka said, "I think for me, it's something I embrace. You can fail once but you have a choice whether you put yourself in that position again and I'm a guy who is going to put myself in that position. I believed in myself and when the ball hit the net I was a very happy man." Saka’s triumph came three years after his missed penalty in the European Championship final against Italy. When Trent Alexander-Arnold scored the winning kick, Saka sank to his knees with arms aloft, a gesture of gratitude and redemption, Saka-style—classy, skillful, and irresistibly likeable. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jul 7, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Bukayo Saka has earned a moment of redemption, reminiscent of Stuart Pearce’s iconic performance, but for the TikTok generation. During England's perfect penalty shootout against Switzerland, fans witnessed a scene that echoed Euro 96 in Dusseldorf on Saturday night. England has only twice scored all their penalties in major tournament shootouts—against Spain at Wembley in 1996 and versus Switzerland in 2024. Pearce famously scored the third spot-kick against Spain, celebrating with a fierce fist pump and a roar. Similarly, Saka nailed the third spot-kick against Switzerland, celebrating with a wide, beaming smile, capturing the hearts of the new generation of England supporters. ADVERTISEMENT For both players, these moments represented significant redemption . Pearce’s successful penalty came six years after missing in the 1990 World Cup semi-final against West Germany. Reflecting on overcoming his past miss, Saka said, "I think for me, it's something I embrace. You can fail once but you have a choice whether you put yourself in that position again and I'm a guy who is going to put myself in that position. I believed in myself and when the ball hit the net I was a very happy man." ADVERTISEMENT Saka’s triumph came three years after his missed penalty in the European Championship final against Italy. When Trent Alexander-Arnold scored the winning kick, Saka sank to his knees with arms aloft, a gesture of gratitude and redemption, Saka-style—classy, skillful, and irresistibly likeable. 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

As Tshisekedi heads to Washington, Patrick Muyaya reaffirms DRC’s commitment to peace, but warns Rwanda must withdraw and end support for M23 before any deal. In a strong statement to the Congolese people, Government Spokesperson Patrick Muyaya confirmed that President Félix Tshisekedi’s visit to Washington for the formal endorsement of the DRC-Rwanda peace agreement reflects Kinshasa’s unwavering commitment to lasting peace, despite ongoing aggression from the M23 and its backers. Speaking to Radio Okapi on the eve of the summit, Muyaya reaffirmed: “From the beginning of his mandate, President Tshisekedi chose peace. Even when faced with Rwanda’s hostility, he remained open to dialogue. But choosing peace is not weakness, it is an act of leadership.” Washington Agreement: Not Just Words- A Roadmap The Washington summit marks the continuation of a peace process that has taken shape through multiple stages, from Luanda to Doha, culminating in a formal integration framework agreement signed on June 27. “It is now time to give this agreement full legitimacy at the highest level,” Muyaya said. “This is why the President is heading to Washington, to reaffirm Congo’s commitment to peace, and to hold Rwanda accountable for theirs.” “Rwanda is the Father, M23 is the Son” — No Illusions About the Aggressor Muyaya echoed President Tshisekedi’s recent words on betrayal, referencing how, in 2022, the DRC's trust in regional peacebuilding was “stabbed in the back.” “We joined the East African Community in good faith to foster cross-border trade and shared prosperity. Instead, we got aggression disguised as diplomacy.” He added: Continue Reading Full Article WAR IN DR CONGO “Rwanda is the Father, M23 is the Son": Muyaya Ahead of Washington By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Dec 2, 2025 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: In a strong statement to the Congolese people, Government Spokesperson Patrick Muyaya confirmed that President Félix Tshisekedi’s visit to Washington for the formal endorsement of the DRC-Rwanda peace agreement reflects Kinshasa’s unwavering commitment to lasting peace, despite ongoing aggression from the M23 and its backers. Speaking to Radio Okapi on the eve of the summit, Muyaya reaffirmed: “From the beginning of his mandate, President Tshisekedi chose peace. Even when faced with Rwanda’s hostility, he remained open to dialogue. But choosing peace is not weakness, it is an act of leadership.” ADVERTISEMENT Washington Agreement: Not Just Words- A Roadmap The Washington summit marks the continuation of a peace process that has taken shape through multiple stages, from Luanda to Doha, culminating in a formal integration framework agreement signed on June 27. “It is now time to give this agreement full legitimacy at the highest level,” Muyaya said. “This is why the President is heading to Washington, to reaffirm Congo’s commitment to peace, and to hold Rwanda accountable for theirs.” “Rwanda is the Father, M23 is the Son” — No Illusions About the Aggressor Muyaya echoed President Tshisekedi’s recent words on betrayal, referencing how, in 2022, the DRC's trust in regional peacebuilding was “stabbed in the back.” “We joined the East African Community in good faith to foster cross-border trade and shared prosperity. Instead, we got aggression disguised as diplomacy.” He added: ADVERTISEMENT “Rwanda and M23 act in tandem, the father and the son. Their strategy is manipulation and confusion. But the Congolese people must remain vigilant, united, and resistant to their disinformation campaigns.” Vigilance, Unity & Resistance to Propaganda Muyaya warned against internal divisions fueled by Rwandan disinformation, urging Congolese citizens to stand firm: “We know the poison Rwanda spreads: division, confusion, infiltration. That’s why we call on every Congolese to stay mobilized, to resist manipulation, and to defend our national unity.” “Peace Must Mean Withdrawal & Accountability” The government’s position remains firm: any peace must include: Withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese soil Cessation of all support to M23 Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . ADVERTISEMENT Restoration of full Congolese sovereignty Message to the East: "We Are With You" “To our people in Beni, Uvira, and other occupied zones, we see you, we hear you. Military governors are in place, and every document signed, every journey made, is about one thing: ending the suffering.” “Do Not Be Deceived, Congo Will Prevail” With President Tshisekedi heading to Washington, Muyaya stressed this is not just a diplomatic photo-op, but a high-stakes moment for peace and justice: “We will not fall for parallel agendas. The future of Congo belongs to its people, not to foreign-backed rebels. Peace is coming, but on our terms: with truth, sovereignty, and strength.” ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty Will Democrats support Kagame after the 2026 midterms? Blinken's statements, Biden's Rwanda policy . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution In London, the DRC government spokesperson rejects constitutional politics as a cause of the eastern . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 Four firms will rebuild runways and terminals from Kalemie to Muanda under a Treasury-funded plan . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews Board vote set for December; minister says up to $771 million could follow if approved . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo Patrick Muyaya Katembwe Patrick Muyaya Katembwe Felix Tshisekedi Felix Tshisekedi

South Africa’s September 30 migrant deadline has no legal authority. Here is what police, immigration law and official safety contacts say. DURBAN, South Africa — Refugees and migrants in South Africa are facing renewed fear before a September 30 deadline announced by the anti-immigration movement March and March. The deadline has no legal authority: only the state can enforce immigration law or carry out deportations. Police say they will continue normal monitoring of announced demonstrations. The immediate concern is safety. A new Al Jazeera report published on September 28 describes Congolese and other African refugees in Durban who say they are afraid to return to communities they previously fled. Is South Africa’s September 30 migrant deadline legally binding? No. March and March is a private movement and cannot deport anyone. South Africa’s government says immigration enforcement belongs to Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority and police. Demonstrations may occur, but participants must obey the law and may not intimidate or attack foreign nationals. The deadline is political pressure, not an official order March and March has called for undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa by September 30 and has warned of further demonstrations if its demand is not met. The movement says it is targeting irregular migration rather than all foreign nationals. That distinction does not turn its demand into law. South Africa’s Immigration Act regulates admission, residence and departure through public institutions. Government has repeatedly said that members of the public and private groups cannot perform immigration enforcement themselves. In June, the Presidency warned South Africans not to take the law into their own hands. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said immigration enforcement must be left to authorised agencies. That means September 30 is not an expiry date for valid refugee, asylum, residence or work documents. People with immigration questions should verify their status through the Department of Home Affairs rather than through social-media messages, protest leaflets or unofficial threats. Police say normal monitoring will continue Continue Reading Full Article INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS South Africa September 30 Migrant Deadline Explained By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Sep 28, 2026 Sep 28, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: DURBAN, South Africa — Refugees and migrants in South Africa are facing renewed fear before a September 30 deadline announced by the anti-immigration movement March and March. The deadline has no legal authority: only the state can enforce immigration law or carry out deportations. Police say they will continue normal monitoring of announced demonstrations. The immediate concern is safety. A new Al Jazeera report published on September 28 describes Congolese and other African refugees in Durban who say they are afraid to return to communities they previously fled. Is South Africa’s September 30 migrant deadline legally binding? No. March and March is a private movement and cannot deport anyone. South Africa’s government says immigration enforcement belongs to Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority and police. Demonstrations may occur, but participants must obey the law and may not intimidate or attack foreign nationals. The deadline is political pressure, not an official order March and March has called for undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa by September 30 and has warned of further demonstrations if its demand is not met. The movement says it is targeting irregular migration rather than all foreign nationals. That distinction does not turn its demand into law. South Africa’s Immigration Act regulates admission, residence and departure through public institutions. Government has repeatedly said that members of the public and private groups cannot perform immigration enforcement themselves. ADVERTISEMENT In June, the Presidency warned South Africans not to take the law into their own hands. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said immigration enforcement must be left to authorised agencies. That means September 30 is not an expiry date for valid refugee, asylum, residence or work documents. People with immigration questions should verify their status through the Department of Home Affairs rather than through social-media messages, protest leaflets or unofficial threats. Police say normal monitoring will continue South African Police Service Deputy National Commissioner Tebello Mosikili said police would continue monitoring the situation and policing announced marches. Her remarks were reported by Eyewitness News , which said no special budget had been allocated specifically for the September 30 demonstrations. The government’s Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration has separately said that vigilantism, intimidation, looting and attacks based on nationality are criminal acts. Its June 26 statement also warned that old, staged or manipulated videos were being recirculated to inflame tensions. ADVERTISEMENT No one should treat viral footage as proof of a new incident without checking the date, location and original source. The September 30 countdown may increase the reuse of earlier videos from South Africa or other countries. Why refugees in Durban remain afraid The latest reporting adds a human consequence to a deadline that has circulated for weeks. Al Jazeera interviewed refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other African countries who said they feared attacks whether or not their documents were valid. The report says 274 people were moved from a makeshift camp outside the Durban Refugee Reception Centre to the Lindela facility on September 15, while about 150 others remained in Durban and sought alternative accommodation. Those figures are attributed to the report and do not represent all refugees or migrants in South Africa. The pressure also has a regional dimension. Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry said a September 24 return flight carried 105 people to Lagos and brought the number evacuated since June 10 to 1,821. Earlier XTRAfrica coverage documented Nigeria’s voluntary return flights and the later parliamentary boycott of South African engagements . XTRAfrica has also tracked the wider regional scrutiny of anti-migrant tensions . The fresh angle is not that evacuations have begun—they have been underway for months—but that a new deadline is renewing fear shortly before South Africa’s local government elections. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Elections Monitoring South Africa Election Results: How to Read the Count . Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: Voting Hours, IDs and Ballots . Justice & Crime Julius Mkhwanazi, Kagiso Lerutla: Court Case Explained . Sports Trends Khanyisa Mayo Return Update: What Da Cruz Has Said . Elections Monitoring South Africa Special Voting: Hours, IDs and Home Visits . ADVERTISEMENT What migrants should do if threatened People facing an immediate threat should use official channels rather than confronting demonstrators or relying on unverified online accounts. For a police emergency: Call SAPS on 10111 or contact the nearest police station. SAPS says the caller should provide the location, a description of suspects and information about weapons where safely possible. To report information anonymously: Use Crime Stop on 08600 10111 . For Home Affairs questions: The department lists 0800 601 190 and hacc@dha.gov.za for its contact centre. For Nigerian consular help: The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria lists 012 342 0805 and nhcp@telkomsa.net on its official website. The SAPS crime-reporting service says any crime victim may open a case free of charge. Immigration status does not authorise assault, robbery, threats or denial of access to the police. The next verifiable milestones are any formal notice about September 30 demonstrations, police deployment updates, arrests connected to intimidation or violence, and new consular advisories. Until then, the responsible framing is clear: the deadline is not law, but the fear and safety risks it has created are real. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Elections Monitoring South Africa Election Results: How to Read the Count A practical guide to partial tallies, projections, ward winners and municipal council seats. . Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: Voting Hours, IDs and Ballots South Africans vote on 4 November. Check polling times, voter details, IDs and ballot rules. . Justice & Crime Julius Mkhwanazi, Kagiso Lerutla: Court Case Explained The Ekurhuleni fraud and corruption case returned to the news on 3 November 2026. . Sports Trends Khanyisa Mayo Return Update: What Da Cruz Has Said The Chiefs coach says Mayo is getting closer, but his post-derby comments give no comeback date. . Tags Southern Africa News Southern Africa News Breaking News Breaking News South Africa South Africa

Diane Shima Rwigara has announced her candidacy for the Rwandan presidency in the upcoming July 2024 elections. Rwigara shared her intentions on her X account, stating, "A new chapter in the history of Rwanda begins now. Together, we will make history. Support me in this endeavor to become president." This marks her second presidential bid after a challenging campaign in 2017. Diane Shima Rwigara, daughter of the late businessman Assinapol Rwigara, is a notable figure in Rwanda's political scene, known for her vocal criticism of President Paul Kagame's administration. Her repeated candidacy underscores her commitment to challenging the political status quo in Rwanda. In 2017, her candidacy was blocked by the National Electoral Commission, which led to widespread domestic and international criticism viewed as a move to suppress political dissent. Rwigara and her mother were arrested on charges of inciting insurrection and tax evasion but were later acquitted. Her campaign is expected to ignite significant discussions on governance, democracy, and human rights as the election approaches. As a prominent critic of the current regime, Rwigara's run is seen as a vital step toward enhancing political pluralism and freedom of expression in Rwanda . Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 8, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Diane Rwigara speaks to the media in Kigali, Rwanda, June 20, 2017. © 2017 Jean Bizimana/Reuters Diane Shima Rwigara has announced her candidacy for the Rwandan presidency in the upcoming July 2024 elections. Rwigara shared her intentions on her X account, stating, "A new chapter in the history of Rwanda begins now. Together, we will make history. Support me in this endeavor to become president." This marks her second presidential bid after a challenging campaign in 2017. ADVERTISEMENT Diane Shima Rwigara, daughter of the late businessman Assinapol Rwigara, is a notable figure in Rwanda's political scene, known for her vocal criticism of President Paul Kagame's administration. ADVERTISEMENT Her repeated candidacy underscores her commitment to challenging the political status quo in Rwanda. In 2017, her candidacy was blocked by the National Electoral Commission, which led to widespread domestic and international criticism viewed as a move to suppress political dissent. Rwigara and her mother were arrested on charges of inciting insurrection and tax evasion but were later acquitted. Her campaign is expected to ignite significant discussions on governance, democracy, and human rights as the election approaches. As a prominent critic of the current regime, Rwigara's run is seen as a vital step toward enhancing political pluralism and freedom of expression in Rwanda . 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

Download Abantwana Bakho mp3 free by Dj Maphorisa, Xduppy, Kabza De Small ft Thatohatsi & Young Stunna. Get this 2025 spiritual amapiano hit now! Dj Maphorisa & Xduppy, Kabza De Small – Abantwana Bakho Mp3 Download Released: April 3, 2025 Artists: Dj Maphorisa, Xduppy, Kabza De Small ft Thatohatsi, Young Stunna Views: Over 1.5 million on YouTube Genre: Amapiano 🎶 About The Song Abantwana Bakho is a powerful amapiano hit featuring the Scorpion Kings themselves – Dj Maphorisa and Kabza De Small – alongside Xduppy, Thatohatsi, and Young Stunna. The song’s title translates to Your Children, and it carries deep spirituality with smooth vocals and signature log drum beats, making it a spiritual anthem for amapiano lovers worldwide. “Abantwana Bakho” brings a soulful prayer vibe, praising God while keeping your head nodding to its strong amapiano bassline. 💽 Download Abantwana Bakho Mp3 Free Continue Reading Full Article Abantwana Bakho mp3 download By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jul 8, 2025 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Dj Maphorisa & Xduppy, Kabza De Small – Abantwana Bakho Mp3 Download Released: April 3, 2025 Artists: Dj Maphorisa, Xduppy, Kabza De Small ft Thatohatsi, Young Stunna Views: Over 1.5 million on YouTube Genre: Amapiano ADVERTISEMENT 🎶 About The Song Abantwana Bakho is a powerful amapiano hit featuring the Scorpion Kings themselves – Dj Maphorisa and Kabza De Small – alongside Xduppy, Thatohatsi, and Young Stunna. The song’s title translates to Your Children, and it carries deep spirituality with smooth vocals and signature log drum beats, making it a spiritual anthem for amapiano lovers worldwide. “Abantwana Bakho” brings a soulful prayer vibe, praising God while keeping your head nodding to its strong amapiano bassline. 💽 Download Abantwana Bakho Mp3 Free Download now and let Abantwana Bakho lift your spirit today. Share your thoughts below – did this track touch your soul too? Download also Mawhoo – Ngakwenzani mp3 free featuring Thukuthela & Jazzwork on here 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 African Culture Vyroota Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Rise from Kireka . Entertainment Seputla Sebogodi Dies: Cause of Death and Biography . Investment Deals Burundi-Washington Nickel Deal Signals Great Lakes Strategic Shift . Afrobeats Ekunrawo and Jux Release New Afro-R&B Collaboration ‘Halima’ . Musics Bobi Wine Declined 10% Stake Offer in Uganda’s Galaxy FM . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles African Culture Vyroota Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Rise from Kireka Discover Vyroota’s age, family roots, breakthrough songs, award and journey from Kireka. . Entertainment Seputla Sebogodi Dies: Cause of Death and Biography Veteran Generations actor Seputla Sebogodi died after complications related to diabetes . Investment Deals Burundi-Washington Nickel Deal Signals Great Lakes Strategic Shift Burundi’s Washington nickel agreement sharpens Great Lakes competition over critical minerals. . Afrobeats Ekunrawo and Jux Release New Afro-R&B Collaboration ‘Halima’ Nigerian singer Ekunrawo partners with Tanzanian star Jux on the cross-border single ‘Halima’. . Tags African Entertainment African Entertainment South Africa Musics South Africa Musics Musics Musics

Kenyan groups are challenging a U.S.-backed Ebola facility, citing health risks and transparency concerns. Kenya is facing mounting criticism over plans to host a U.S.-supported Ebola quarantine facility for Americans potentially exposed to the virus during the ongoing outbreak in Central Africa. The proposal, first reported by CNN , has sparked opposition from medical professionals, legal groups, and members of the public who question why Kenya should assume additional risks while remaining free of Ebola cases. The planned facility would be located at Laikipia Air Base, north of Nairobi, and is expected to begin operations with a 50-bed quarantine unit. U.S. officials say the site would allow exposed Americans to receive monitoring and medical care closer to the outbreak zone in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo before being transferred elsewhere if necessary. However, Kenya's largest doctors' union has demanded greater transparency from the government. Union leaders argue that officials have not clearly explained the terms of the arrangement or why Kenya was selected. Some critics have also pointed to Kenya's own healthcare funding challenges, questioning whether resources should instead be directed toward strengthening domestic health services. The backlash extends beyond the medical community. The Law Society of Kenya has urged the government to reject the proposal, arguing that Kenya should apply the same health-protection standards that the United States applies to its own citizens. Civil society organizations have also begun legal challenges seeking greater scrutiny of the agreement. The controversy comes as the Ebola outbreak continues to worsen in eastern DRC . According to the World Health Organization , the Bundibugyo strain has caused more than 1,000 suspected infections and hundreds of deaths, while cases have also been reported in neighboring Uganda. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus recently warned that the outbreak is "outpacing the response" amid ongoing conflict and displacement in affected areas. The debate has also drawn attention in the United States. Reports indicate that some public health officials questioned the decision to send exposed Americans to Kenya rather than bringing them back to specialized treatment facilities in the U.S. Supporters of the plan argue that proximity to the outbreak could speed up monitoring and treatment, while opponents say it shifts risks onto a country that is not currently affected by Ebola. For Kenya, the issue has become about more than disease control. It has evolved into a broader discussion about public trust, national sovereignty, healthcare capacity, and the role African countries should play in responding to international health emergencies. Source: CNN PUBLIC HEALTH ALERTS WHY Kenya’s U.S. Ebola Facility Plan Is Facing Backlash By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment May 29, 2026 May 29, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kenya is facing mounting criticism over plans to host a U.S.-supported Ebola quarantine facility for Americans potentially exposed to the virus during the ongoing outbreak in Central Africa. The proposal, first reported by CNN , has sparked opposition from medical professionals, legal groups, and members of the public who question why Kenya should assume additional risks while remaining free of Ebola cases. The planned facility would be located at Laikipia Air Base, north of Nairobi, and is expected to begin operations with a 50-bed quarantine unit. U.S. officials say the site would allow exposed Americans to receive monitoring and medical care closer to the outbreak zone in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo before being transferred elsewhere if necessary. ADVERTISEMENT However, Kenya's largest doctors' union has demanded greater transparency from the government. Union leaders argue that officials have not clearly explained the terms of the arrangement or why Kenya was selected. Some critics have also pointed to Kenya's own healthcare funding challenges, questioning whether resources should instead be directed toward strengthening domestic health services. The backlash extends beyond the medical community. The Law Society of Kenya has urged the government to reject the proposal, arguing that Kenya should apply the same health-protection standards that the United States applies to its own citizens. Civil society organizations have also begun legal challenges seeking greater scrutiny of the agreement. ADVERTISEMENT The controversy comes as the Ebola outbreak continues to worsen in eastern DRC . According to the World Health Organization , the Bundibugyo strain has caused more than 1,000 suspected infections and hundreds of deaths, while cases have also been reported in neighboring Uganda. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus recently warned that the outbreak is "outpacing the response" amid ongoing conflict and displacement in affected areas. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Government Announcements Kenya eCitizen Oversight: Treasury’s Role and Payment Questions . Business Trends How to File Your KRA Tax Return Online in 2027 . Tax and Revenue How to Apply for a KRA Tax Refund Online . Immigration and Visas How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport Online . Tax and Revenue How to Check Your KRA Application Status . ADVERTISEMENT The debate has also drawn attention in the United States. Reports indicate that some public health officials questioned the decision to send exposed Americans to Kenya rather than bringing them back to specialized treatment facilities in the U.S. Supporters of the plan argue that proximity to the outbreak could speed up monitoring and treatment, while opponents say it shifts risks onto a country that is not currently affected by Ebola. For Kenya, the issue has become about more than disease control. It has evolved into a broader discussion about public trust, national sovereignty, healthcare capacity, and the role African countries should play in responding to international health emergencies. Source: CNN ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Government Announcements Kenya eCitizen Oversight: Treasury’s Role and Payment Questions What established responsibilities and draft reforms mean for users seeking services and receipts. . Business Trends How to File Your KRA Tax Return Online in 2027 KRA's April 30 deadline starts in 2027; here is what individual taxpayers should prepare and file. . Tax and Revenue How to Apply for a KRA Tax Refund Online Claim income tax refunds on iTax after filing. Bank details, documents, tracking, and KRA timelines. . Immigration and Visas How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport Online Apply on dis.ecitizen.go.ke, pay the fee, book biometrics, then collect at your centre. . Tags Kenya Gov Services Kenya Gov Services Kenya Kenya Health Health

Kenya’s court extended a block on a U.S.-backed Ebola facility after protests left two dead Kenya’s High Court has pushed the proposed U.S.-backed Ebola quarantine facility into a new legal phase after ordering the government to disclose its agreements with Washington, following protests in Nanyuki in which two people were reported killed. The case centers on a planned 50-bed unit at a Kenyan air force base for Americans exposed to Ebola in the DRC or Uganda. According to AP , Judge Patricia Nyaundi extended the suspension of the facility for three more weeks and directed the government to release related agreements and operational protocols within seven days. The next hearing is scheduled for June 23. The proposed site has triggered public anger in Keny a, with critics questioning why people exposed to Ebola abroad should be quarantined in Kenya rather than in the United States. Reuters reported that protest organiser Patrick Wahome said two people died from gunshot wounds, while a security source also confirmed two deaths but did not specify the cause. President William Ruto has defended the arrangement, saying it forms part of Kenya’s wider Ebola preparedness and long-running health cooperation with Washington. However, a U.S. official cited by Reuters said the facility would treat American citizens, intensifying questions over transparency and public benefit. The dispute comes as the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak continues in the DRC and Uganda. WHO says the outbreak was confirmed in both countries in May 2026, while ECDC reported 321 confirmed cases and 48 confirmed deaths in the DRC as of June 2. The court order now shifts the controversy from street protests to disclosure: Kenya’s government must show what it agreed to, how the facility would operate, and whether public health safeguards were properly considered. Continue Reading Full Article PROTESTS AND MOVEMENTS Court Orders kenya Government to Reveal U.S. Ebola Facility Agreements By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 2, 2026 Jun 2, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kenya’s High Court has pushed the proposed U.S.-backed Ebola quarantine facility into a new legal phase after ordering the government to disclose its agreements with Washington, following protests in Nanyuki in which two people were reported killed. The case centers on a planned 50-bed unit at a Kenyan air force base for Americans exposed to Ebola in the DRC or Uganda. ADVERTISEMENT According to AP , Judge Patricia Nyaundi extended the suspension of the facility for three more weeks and directed the government to release related agreements and operational protocols within seven days. The next hearing is scheduled for June 23. The proposed site has triggered public anger in Keny a, with critics questioning why people exposed to Ebola abroad should be quarantined in Kenya rather than in the United States. Reuters reported that protest organiser Patrick Wahome said two people died from gunshot wounds, while a security source also confirmed two deaths but did not specify the cause. ADVERTISEMENT President William Ruto has defended the arrangement, saying it forms part of Kenya’s wider Ebola preparedness and long-running health cooperation with Washington. However, a U.S. official cited by Reuters said the facility would treat American citizens, intensifying questions over transparency and public benefit. The dispute comes as the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak continues in the DRC and Uganda. WHO says the outbreak was confirmed in both countries in May 2026, while ECDC reported 321 confirmed cases and 48 confirmed deaths in the DRC as of June 2. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Government Announcements Kenya eCitizen Oversight: Treasury’s Role and Payment Questions . Business Trends How to File Your KRA Tax Return Online in 2027 . Tax and Revenue How to Apply for a KRA Tax Refund Online . Immigration and Visas How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport Online . Tax and Revenue How to Check Your KRA Application Status . ADVERTISEMENT The court order now shifts the controversy from street protests to disclosure: Kenya’s government must show what it agreed to, how the facility would operate, and whether public health safeguards were properly considered. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Government Announcements Kenya eCitizen Oversight: Treasury’s Role and Payment Questions What established responsibilities and draft reforms mean for users seeking services and receipts. . Business Trends How to File Your KRA Tax Return Online in 2027 KRA's April 30 deadline starts in 2027; here is what individual taxpayers should prepare and file. . Tax and Revenue How to Apply for a KRA Tax Refund Online Claim income tax refunds on iTax after filing. Bank details, documents, tracking, and KRA timelines. . Immigration and Visas How to Apply for a Kenyan Passport Online Apply on dis.ecitizen.go.ke, pay the fee, book biometrics, then collect at your centre. . Tags Kenya Gov Services Kenya Gov Services Kenya Kenya Kenya Protests Kenya Protests African Union African Union

In light of the escalating crisis in eastern Congo, Belgium’s ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Roxane de Bilderling, has urged the Congolese government to take legal action against Rwanda by filing a complaint with the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ambassador made this recommendation during a meeting with foreign envoys in Goma, addressing Rwanda's alleged failure to respect international borders. The conflict in eastern Congo has intensified due to the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, leading to significant displacement. The United Nations' aid agency, OCHA, reports that the fighting has displaced over 738,000 people in the first quarter of this year alone. M23, known for its ethnic Tutsi leadership, has been a central figure in the ongoing strife which is a direct continuation of the tensions following the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The Congolese government, supported by statements from U.N. officials and Western nations including the United States and Belgium, accuses Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels. Allegations include the provision of weapons and soldiers to the rebels, charges that the Rwandan government vehemently denies. In a counterclaim, Rwanda’s army has accused Congo of supporting the Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a rebel group comprised mainly of ethnic Hutus. In response to Ambassador de Bilderling's comments, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo controversially suggested that the DRC should consider taking Belgium to the ICJ instead. This ongoing dispute highlights the deep-rooted and complex nature of the conflicts in the Great Lakes region of Africa, underscoring the challenges in achieving lasting peace and stability. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 21, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Belgium’s ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Roxane de Bilderling on the right In light of the escalating crisis in eastern Congo, Belgium’s ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Roxane de Bilderling, has urged the Congolese government to take legal action against Rwanda by filing a complaint with the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ambassador made this recommendation during a meeting with foreign envoys in Goma, addressing Rwanda's alleged failure to respect international borders. The conflict in eastern Congo has intensified due to the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, leading to significant displacement. The United Nations' aid agency, OCHA, reports that the fighting has displaced over 738,000 people in the first quarter of this year alone. M23, known for its ethnic Tutsi leadership, has been a central figure in the ongoing strife which is a direct continuation of the tensions following the 1994 Rwandan genocide. ADVERTISEMENT The Congolese government, supported by statements from U.N. officials and Western nations including the United States and Belgium, accuses Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels. Allegations include the provision of weapons and soldiers to the rebels, charges that the Rwandan government vehemently denies. In a counterclaim, Rwanda’s army has accused Congo of supporting the Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a rebel group comprised mainly of ethnic Hutus. ADVERTISEMENT In response to Ambassador de Bilderling's comments, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo controversially suggested that the DRC should consider taking Belgium to the ICJ instead. This ongoing dispute highlights the deep-rooted and complex nature of the conflicts in the Great Lakes region of Africa, underscoring the challenges in achieving lasting peace and 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 ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Who is Charlyne Brumskine? Meet Liberia's 50-year-old lawyer, former vice-presidential candidate and new president of the ECOWAS Court of Justice. ABUJA, Nigeria — 14 October 2026. Charlyne Mnamah-Mar Brumskine is a Liberian lawyer, former vice-presidential candidate and newly elected president of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice. The court's new judges elected her on 13 October 2026 , one week after she took the oath of office. Her two-year presidency places the first Liberian woman appointed to the court at the head of the regional body that interprets ECOWAS law and hears human-rights cases. Her career connects corporate legal practice, university teaching, public advocacy and electoral politics, but her new position is a judicial one, not a political party office. Who is Charlyne Brumskine? Charlyne M. Brumskine is a Liberian lawyer and former 2023 vice-presidential candidate who became president of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice on 13 October 2026. Born on 28 May 1976, she is 50 years old. She founded CMB Law Group and is the daughter of late Liberty Party founder Charles Walker Brumskine. How Brumskine became ECOWAS Court president On 13 October 2026, the five members of the newly constituted ECOWAS Community Court elected Brumskine as president and Désiré Henri Aihou of Benin as vice-president . The Côte d'Ivoire Press Agency's report of the court's announcement and the Nigerian newspaper PUNCH both confirmed the leadership election. FrontPageAfrica's reporting from Abuja says her colleagues chose her for a two-year leadership term. This followed the ceremony on 6 October 2026 , when Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye swore in Brumskine and four other judges. The ECOWAS Commission's account confirms that the judges have four-year, non-renewable terms, covering 2026–2030. Her judicial term is four years , while her current court presidency lasts two years : the positions have different durations. The other judges are Awa Bah of The Gambia, Henrietta Uzoamaka Didigu of Nigeria and Yaouza Ouro-Sama of Togo, alongside Brumskine and Aihou. Their appointment was approved during an ECOWAS summit in Sierra Leone in July 2026. Brumskine's election to lead the court followed the end of the previous panel's mandate, not a nationwide popular vote. As president, she leads hearings and judicial administration and represents the court in its institutional work. Her reported acceptance address stressed impartiality, timely justice and continuity with the outgoing judges' work. Age, parents and the Grand Bassa family legacy Brumskine was born on 28 May 1976 , making her 50 years old on 14 October 2026 . Her own published biography identifies her parents as Charles Walker Brumskine and Estelle Vicky Brumskine . She has strong family and political connections to Buchanan and Grand Bassa County, a recurring centre of her civic work. Continue Reading Full Article BIOGRAPHY Charlyne Brumskine Biography: Age, Family and ECOWAS Court Chief By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 14, 2026 Oct 14, 2026 11 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: ABUJA, Nigeria — 14 October 2026. Charlyne Mnamah-Mar Brumskine is a Liberian lawyer, former vice-presidential candidate and newly elected president of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice. The court's new judges elected her on 13 October 2026 , one week after she took the oath of office. Her two-year presidency places the first Liberian woman appointed to the court at the head of the regional body that interprets ECOWAS law and hears human-rights cases. Her career connects corporate legal practice, university teaching, public advocacy and electoral politics, but her new position is a judicial one, not a political party office. Who is Charlyne Brumskine? Charlyne M. Brumskine is a Liberian lawyer and former 2023 vice-presidential candidate who became president of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice on 13 October 2026. Born on 28 May 1976, she is 50 years old. She founded CMB Law Group and is the daughter of late Liberty Party founder Charles Walker Brumskine. How Brumskine became ECOWAS Court president On 13 October 2026, the five members of the newly constituted ECOWAS Community Court elected Brumskine as president and Désiré Henri Aihou of Benin as vice-president . The Côte d'Ivoire Press Agency's report of the court's announcement and the Nigerian newspaper PUNCH both confirmed the leadership election. FrontPageAfrica's reporting from Abuja says her colleagues chose her for a two-year leadership term. This followed the ceremony on 6 October 2026 , when Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye swore in Brumskine and four other judges. The ECOWAS Commission's account confirms that the judges have four-year, non-renewable terms, covering 2026–2030. Her judicial term is four years , while her current court presidency lasts two years : the positions have different durations. The other judges are Awa Bah of The Gambia, Henrietta Uzoamaka Didigu of Nigeria and Yaouza Ouro-Sama of Togo, alongside Brumskine and Aihou. Their appointment was approved during an ECOWAS summit in Sierra Leone in July 2026. Brumskine's election to lead the court followed the end of the previous panel's mandate, not a nationwide popular vote. As president, she leads hearings and judicial administration and represents the court in its institutional work. Her reported acceptance address stressed impartiality, timely justice and continuity with the outgoing judges' work. Age, parents and the Grand Bassa family legacy Brumskine was born on 28 May 1976 , making her 50 years old on 14 October 2026 . Her own published biography identifies her parents as Charles Walker Brumskine and Estelle Vicky Brumskine . She has strong family and political connections to Buchanan and Grand Bassa County, a recurring centre of her civic work. Her father, who died in 2019, was a prominent Liberian lawyer, former president pro tempore of the Senate, founder of the Liberty Party and repeated presidential candidate. That association made Charlyne familiar to many Liberians before she became a national candidate in her own right. Yet her legal education, professional practice and work with civic organisations predate her appointment to the regional bench. ADVERTISEMENT In a substantial 2020 interview published by The Analyst , she described returning to Liberia from the United States and learning from her father's legal and political work. She said she moved back in 2013, later became involved in his campaigns and saw the difficulties faced by women and children as an important reason for public engagement. Education and more than two decades in law Brumskine earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Barnard College in 1997 , followed by a Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law in 2002 . The Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center's professional profile confirms both degrees and the dates. She joined the New York State Bar in 2003 and the Liberian National Bar in 2014, according to the same institutional profile. It also credits her as valedictorian of Liberia's 2022 Supreme Court Bar examination. She founded CMB Law Group , a Monrovia law firm working in corporate and commercial matters, and has represented businesses, development organisations and public-sector clients. The EJS Center also records her service as an assistant professor at the University of Liberia's Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law. From the Liberty Party to the 2023 vice-presidential election Brumskine became more active in national politics in the period surrounding her father's later presidential campaigns. She was involved with the Liberty Party and maintained a presence in Grand Bassa after his death. In 2022 , she sought a possible legislative candidacy in Grand Bassa County, but her political course soon changed. In May 2023, opposition politician Alexander B. Cummings selected her as his running mate for Liberia's presidential election. She accepted the nomination, as contemporaneous reporting by Women Voices documented. The pair contested the election on the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP) ticket. They did not win the presidency. Her new judicial role also changes how her earlier party activity should be understood. In early October 2026, just before taking the ECOWAS oath, she appeared at a Liberty Party gathering in Grand Bassa and expressed support for Senate President Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence's party leadership. The New Dawn's account of the occasion reported Brumskine saying that the move to the regional court meant she would step away from active party politics. Her previous party membership does not establish how she will decide cases as a judge. ADVERTISEMENT Teaching, women's leadership and public legal education Alongside legal work, Brumskine has supported education and participation by women and young people. Her published biography describes scholarship support and charity work through the Brumskine Family Foundation and CMB Law Group. In 2025 , she was selected for the Amujae Initiative of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center, a network supporting women pursuing public leadership. The Center identifies her as a lawyer, entrepreneur and politician and records positions linked to the African Women Leaders Network's Liberia chapter. Her institutional profile also describes The Law Belongs to Us , a legal-awareness radio initiative intended to explain rights in the Bassa language. It was announced for launch in 2025; an announcement alone does not establish the eventual broadcast schedule or reach. The projects connect her legal background to public education and civic participation. Husband, children and family status Brumskine speaks publicly about motherhood but generally keeps her children's identities outside her professional profile. In her 2020 interview with The Analyst, she said she was raising two children ; her published biographical record also describes her as a mother. In a 2026 post on her public LinkedIn account , she referred to “my husband.” That provides a direct public basis for describing her as married in 2026, but the post did not identify her husband. Older accounts naming a fiancé should not automatically be treated as confirmation of her spouse's current identity. Personal & Family Status Details Marital status Married; self-reported in a 2026 public statement Spouse or partner Husband's identity not publicly reconfirmed as of October 2026 Children Two publicly acknowledged in a 2020 interview; current family details remain private What the court presidency means for West Africa The ECOWAS Court is a judicial institution, not the office of the ECOWAS Commission president. XTRAfrica's biography of Birame Diop, the Commission president , explains the regional bloc's executive leadership. Brumskine instead leads its court, whose work concerns community law, disputes involving ECOWAS institutions and human-rights complaints. The Court's significance is illustrated by its decisions on detention and civil liberties. XTRAfrica's earlier report on former Niger president Mohamed Bazoum describes the court's role in a case concerning his detention. The regional political context also features in XTRAfrica's profile of Gambian President Adama Barrow and reporting on former Sierra Leone president Ernest Bai Koroma . Brumskine will be judged through the court's decisions, administration and ability to uphold judicial independence. Her election is a milestone for Liberia, but the more durable legacy will depend on how the court serves people seeking justice across participating West African states. 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 . 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ADVERTISEMENT Charlyne Brumskine career timeline Year Event Significance 1976 Born on 28 May to Charles and Estelle Brumskine Family roots in Liberia and Grand Bassa 1997 Graduated from Barnard College Earned a degree in political science 2002 Graduated from Howard University School of Law Completed her Juris Doctor 2003 Admitted to the New York State Bar Began a documented chapter of US legal practice 2013–2014 Returned to Liberia and joined the Liberian Bar Built a legal career at home 2022 Recognised at Liberia's Supreme Court Bar examination Completed another important professional qualification 2023 Ran for vice-president with Alexander B. Cummings Entered a national presidential election ticket 2025 Joined the EJS Center's Amujae cohort Expanded her women-in-leadership network 6 October 2026 Sworn in as an ECOWAS Court judge Began a four-year regional judicial term 13 October 2026 Elected president of the ECOWAS Court Began a two-year leadership term Frequently Asked Questions About Charlyne Brumskine Who is Charlyne Brumskine? Charlyne Mnamah-Mar Brumskine is a Liberian lawyer, former vice-presidential candidate and president of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, elected on 13 October 2026. How old is Charlyne Brumskine? She was born on 28 May 1976 and is 50 years old as of 14 October 2026 . Is Charlyne Brumskine the president of ECOWAS? No. She is president of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice . The leadership of the ECOWAS Commission and the political chairmanship of ECOWAS are separate offices. Who are Charlyne Brumskine's parents? Her parents are the late Liberian lawyer and Liberty Party founder Charles Walker Brumskine and Estelle Vicky Brumskine. What is Charlyne Brumskine's educational background? She studied political science at Barnard College, graduating in 1997, and earned a Juris Doctor at Howard University School of Law in 2002. Did Charlyne Brumskine run for vice-president? Yes. She ran alongside Alexander B. Cummings on the Collaborating Political Parties ticket in Liberia's 2023 presidential election. They did not win. Is Charlyne Brumskine married, and does she have children? She publicly referred to her husband in a 2026 statement. In 2020, she said she had two children; their private identities are not necessary to understand her public career. How long will Charlyne Brumskine lead the ECOWAS Court? Her presidency was elected for two years beginning in October 2026. Her separate appointment as a judge runs for a four-year, non-renewable term covering 2026–2030. 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A militia attack on a Chinese-linked mining site in Djugu territory, Ituri province, northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has resulted in the deaths of six Chinese nationals and two Congolese soldiers. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, was carried out by the CODECO (Cooperative for the Development of the Congo) militia, primarily composed of fighters from the Lendu ethnic group. Local officials, including Djugu administrator Ruphin Mapela, confirmed the fatalities . The Red Cross representative for Djugu, Dhekana Ernest, reported that the victims were shot and their bodies transported to Bunia. The regional army spokesperson added that a Congolese national and six militia fighters were also killed. In response, China condemned the attack and called for the DRC to pursue and punish the perpetrators swiftly. The Chinese foreign ministry highlighted the need for increased security measures for Chinese citizens and enterprises in the area and urged those in high-risk areas to evacuate. The incident is part of ongoing violence in eastern Congo, driven by competition for land and rich mineral resources. CODECO has been previously accused of actions that could constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jul 4, 2024 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A militia attack on a Chinese-linked mining site in Djugu territory, Ituri province, northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has resulted in the deaths of six Chinese nationals and two Congolese soldiers. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, was carried out by the CODECO (Cooperative for the Development of the Congo) militia, primarily composed of fighters from the Lendu ethnic group. Local officials, including Djugu administrator Ruphin Mapela, confirmed the fatalities . The Red Cross representative for Djugu, Dhekana Ernest, reported that the victims were shot and their bodies transported to Bunia. ADVERTISEMENT The regional army spokesperson added that a Congolese national and six militia fighters were also killed. In response, China condemned the attack and called for the DRC to pursue and punish the perpetrators swiftly. The Chinese foreign ministry highlighted the need for increased security measures for Chinese citizens and enterprises in the area and urged those in high-risk areas to evacuate. The incident is part of ongoing violence in eastern Congo, driven by competition for land and rich mineral resources. CODECO has been previously accused of actions that could constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags