UIF benefit claims have moved from uFiling to UIF Online. Learn where to apply, what to prepare and how employers must handle declarations. South African workers must now use UIF Online when submitting new applications for Unemployment Insurance Fund benefits. The employee-claims section of the old uFiling platform officially closed on 20 May 2026 . New employee benefit claims are no longer processed through the legacy claims system. Workers applying for unemployment, maternity, illness and other supported UIF benefits should use the new official portal: UIF Online: https://uifonline.labour.gov.za/uifOnline/ Employers must continue using uFiling for registration, employee declarations and monthly contribution payments until those services are fully migrated. Quick Answer New employee claims portal: UIF Online Old employee claims portal: Closed for new claims Employee claims closure date: 20 May 2026 Employer portal: uFiling remains temporarily operational Continue Reading Full Article EDUCATION UIF Online Claims: How to Apply After the uFiling Change By Wilson Munezero Government Services & Opportunities Expert Wilson Munezero Home Comment Aug 5, 2026 Aug 5, 2026 17 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: South African workers must now use UIF Online when submitting new applications for Unemployment Insurance Fund benefits. The employee-claims section of the old uFiling platform officially closed on 20 May 2026 . New employee benefit claims are no longer processed through the legacy claims system. Workers applying for unemployment, maternity, illness and other supported UIF benefits should use the new official portal: UIF Online: https://uifonline.labour.gov.za/uifOnline/ Employers must continue using uFiling for registration, employee declarations and monthly contribution payments until those services are fully migrated. Quick Answer New employee claims portal: UIF Online Old employee claims portal: Closed for new claims Employee claims closure date: 20 May 2026 Employer portal: uFiling remains temporarily operational Employer services: Registration, declarations and contribution payments Migration status: Employer services were scheduled to move during August 2026 Application cost: Free UIF contact number: 08000 30007 Call-centre hours: 07:30–16:00, Monday to Friday Official claims link: https://uifonline.labour.gov.za/uifOnline/ What Changed? The UIF previously used uFiling for both employee claims and employer services. That system is now being separated during a phased migration: Employees: New benefit claims must be submitted through UIF Online. Employers: Registration, declarations and monthly contribution payments remain temporarily available through uFiling. Final migration: Employer services were expected to move to the upgraded platform during August 2026. The UIF says applications that were previously submitted through uFiling were not lost. Earlier applications are being analysed, checked and migrated into the new system. Workers should not submit a duplicate application simply because a previous claim does not immediately appear on the new portal. They should contact the UIF first. Which Benefits Can Be Claimed? UIF provides short-term financial support to qualifying contributors and their dependants. Available benefit categories include: Unemployment benefits Reduced-work-time benefits Maternity benefits Illness benefits Adoption benefits Parental benefits Dependants’ benefits following the death of a contributor The exact options visible to an applicant may depend on the answers entered during the UIF Online application process. The official portal includes a screening process before the applicant continues to the relevant benefit form. Who Should Use UIF Online? UIF Online is intended for workers or qualifying dependants submitting a new benefit application. This includes: Workers who have lost their jobs Employees whose working hours or income have been reduced Employees taking maternity leave Workers unable to work because of illness Adoptive parents Parents applying for parental benefits Qualifying dependants of a deceased contributor A person must meet the UIF’s legal and contribution requirements. Registering online does not automatically mean the claim will be approved. What Applicants Need to Register The UIF Online registration page asks an individual to provide: ADVERTISEMENT South African identity number First name and surname Active cellphone number Email address Applicants should use their own contact details and ensure that the information matches official identity records. The registration page is available here: https://uifonline.labour.gov.za/uifOnline/registration Keep the username and password secure. Do not pay another person to create an account. Documents to Prepare The exact documents depend on the benefit being claimed and the information already declared by the employer. Applicants should prepare clear digital copies of all documents requested by UIF Online. Unemployment Claims The current unemployment application process may request: Identity information Contact and residential details Employment and termination information UI-19 employee declaration Salary schedule Banking information Work-seeker registration information Details showing that the applicant is capable of and available for work The portal specifically asks whether the applicant is submitting the UI-19 and salary schedule with the application. Maternity Claims Applicants may be asked to prepare: Identity information Employer and employment details Banking information Maternity-benefit application information Proof or confirmation relating to the pregnancy or birth Employer salary and leave information Any continuation-of-payment documents later requested The system may first ask whether the applicant has been pregnant during the previous 12 months. Illness Claims Applicants may need: Identity information Employer and salary details Banking information Medical information or certification Dates on which the applicant was unable to work Employer declarations Continuation-of-payment documents where applicable Dependants’ Claims The surviving spouse or another qualifying dependant may be asked for: Identity documents Death certificate Proof of relationship to the deceased contributor Marriage, birth or guardianship documents where relevant Banking information Employer and contribution records Additional declarations required by the UIF The Department of Employment and Labour publishes official UIF forms, including unemployment, maternity, illness, parental, adoption and dependants’ benefit forms: https://www.labour.gov.za/DocumentCenter/Pages/Forms.aspx Applicants should follow the current UIF Online instructions rather than uploading every available form without being asked. How to Submit a UIF Claim Online Step 1: Open UIF Online Go to: https://uifonline.labour.gov.za/uifOnline/ Check that the address ends in labour.gov.za . Avoid links circulated by unknown social-media accounts. Step 2: Register or Log In New applicants should select the registration option and enter their identity and contact information. ADVERTISEMENT Returning users can log in with their existing UIF Online credentials. A password-recovery option is available on the official login page. Step 3: Complete the Screening Questions The portal may ask questions that identify the appropriate benefit category. Answer truthfully. Incorrect answers may direct the application to the wrong benefit process or delay verification. Step 4: Complete the Application Enter the requested: Personal details Contact information Residential address Employment history Reason employment stopped or income was reduced Employer information Banking details Benefit-specific information Upload supporting documents when requested. Step 5: Review and Submit Check names, identity numbers, dates, employer details and bank information before submission. Save the reference number and take a screenshot of the confirmation page. Do not submit the same claim several times unless the UIF instructs you to do so. How to Follow Up on a Claim Applicants should first log back into UIF Online and check whether the system displays a claim status, document request or further action. Keep the following information ready when contacting the UIF: South African identity number Claim reference number Benefit type Date of submission Employer name Copies of documents already uploaded Screenshots of errors or status messages For assistance, contact the UIF call centre on 08000 30007 . The official uFiling site lists call-centre operating hours as 07:30–16:00 on weekdays . What Employers Must Do The employer section of uFiling remains temporarily available during the migration. Employers should continue using it for: Employer registration Employee declarations Monthly UIF contribution submissions Contribution payments Updating employee and salary information Checking whether declarations are up to date Employer uFiling portal: https://ufiling.labour.gov.za/ The service is free. Employers should not tell workers to submit new employee claims through the old uFiling claims section. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today SASSA Payment Dates SASSA Change Banking Details Link: Official Guide . Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Social Service How to Check UIF Claim Status Online . Local Government How to Replace a Lost South African ID . ADVERTISEMENT Employer Declaration Problems A worker’s claim can be delayed when the employer’s information is missing, incorrect or outdated. Common problems may include: The employer did not submit a UI-19. The termination date is incorrect. Salary information is missing. The employee is not visible in UIF records. Monthly declarations were not submitted. The employer’s UIF reference details are incorrect. The reason for termination does not match the employee’s application. Workers should ask the former employer to confirm that all declarations and termination details were submitted correctly. Where the employer refuses to cooperate or no longer exists, the claimant should contact the UIF or visit a labour centre for guidance. What About Claims Submitted Before the Change? The Department of Employment and Labour says applications submitted through the old employee portal were stored and were not lost. Those applications are being verified and migrated to the new platform. Applicants with an older claim should: Keep the original reference number. Check UIF Online for available status information. Avoid creating a duplicate application without instruction. Contact the UIF when the earlier claim cannot be found. Retain proof of the original submission and uploaded documents. Can Applicants Still Visit a Labour Centre? Applicants who cannot use the online service should contact the UIF or visit an official labour centre for assistance. Take identity documents, employer information, bank details and any benefit-specific supporting documents. Use the Department of Employment and Labour’s official contact and office information. Do not hand documents to an unofficial “agent” outside a labour centre. Is There an Application Fee? No. UIF Online and uFiling are official free services. XTRAfrica verification warning: Never pay anyone to submit, approve or accelerate a UIF claim. No person can guarantee approval or payment in exchange for money. Report suspicious payment requests and use only official government platforms. Important Difference Between the Two Portals User Correct service during the transition Worker submitting a new UIF benefit claim UIF Online Worker checking or continuing a new online claim UIF Online Employer registering for UIF uFiling temporarily Employer submitting employee declarations uFiling temporarily Employer paying monthly contributions uFiling temporarily The employer side was scheduled for further migration during August 2026. Employers should check the official notices before every major submission. Official Links UIF Online homepage: https://uifonline.labour.gov.za/uifOnline/ UIF Online registration: https://uifonline.labour.gov.za/uifOnline/registration UIF Online login: https://uifonline.labour.gov.za/uifOnline/loginJsp Employer uFiling portal: https://ufiling.labour.gov.za/ Official UIF forms: https://www.labour.gov.za/DocumentCenter/Pages/Forms.aspx Department online services: https://www.labour.gov.za/online-tools UIF call centre: 08000 30007 Verification Official authority: Unemployment Insurance Fund and Department of Employment and Labour System change: New employee benefit claims moved from uFiling to UIF Online Legacy employee portal closure: 20 May 2026 Employer services: Temporarily remain on uFiling Employer migration target: August 2026 Date checked: 5 August 2026 UIF Online status: Active uFiling employer portal status: Active during the transition Verification status: Confirmed Official claims link: https://uifonline.labour.gov.za/uifOnline/ XTRAfrica is not affiliated with the Unemployment Insurance Fund or the Department of Employment and Labour. Applicants and employers should rely on official platforms for final requirements, system notices and claim updates. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles SASSA Payment Dates SASSA Change Banking Details Link: Official Guide Use the official SASSA link to change your SRD banking details safely. Follow the steps and avoid . Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return Use the official SARS checker and 2026 rules to see if you must file an ITR12. . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online Book a SARS branch, video or phone slot on eBooking, MobiApp, SMS or 0800 00 7277. . Social Service How to Check UIF Claim Status Online Use UIF Online, free USSD *134*843#, or call 0800 030 007 to track your claim. . Tags South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services South Africa South Africa

In a move highlighting the complexities of international asylum agreements, RwandAir, the national airline of Rwanda, has rejected an offer from the United Kingdom to conduct flights aimed at removing migrants under a new asylum deal. This decision was made amidst apprehensions that participating in such an operation might tarnish the airline's reputation. Despite this setback, the refusal by the airline, a state-owned entity of Rwanda, has not hindered the progression of the UK's asylum strategy. The UK government's approach involves a comprehensive plan to manage irregular migration, with the anticipated "Safety of Rwanda Bill" playing a central role. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has expressed confidence in the bill's ability to address legal challenges and facilitate the commencement of removal flights. Expected to receive final endorsement shortly, this legislation paves the way for a collaborative framework involving multiple operators for the execution of removal flights. In an unexpected twist, the UK's Ministry of Defence (MoD) emerges as a pivotal participant in the asylum program. This partnership raises the possibility of utilizing military aircraft for deportations if commercial agreements falter. The Home Office, maintaining confidentiality regarding specific partnerships, acknowledges the MoD's significant role in the logistical aspects of migrant removals. The decision by RwandAir underscores the sensitivities and potential repercussions for carriers involved in such operations. Previous instances, such as the withdrawal of Mallorca-based Privilege Style from a similar agreement due to activist pressure, illustrate the challenges faced by airlines in balancing business operations with socio-political considerations. With the first removal flights to Rwanda anticipated in the coming months, the UK government may have to rely on its military resources as a contingency plan. This development emphasizes the multifaceted nature of implementing asylum policies, involving not just legal and political dimensions, but also the engagement of various stakeholders, including commercial and military aviation sectors. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 11, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Rwanda air staff In a move highlighting the complexities of international asylum agreements, RwandAir, the national airline of Rwanda, has rejected an offer from the United Kingdom to conduct flights aimed at removing migrants under a new asylum deal. This decision was made amidst apprehensions that participating in such an operation might tarnish the airline's reputation. Despite this setback, the refusal by the airline, a state-owned entity of Rwanda, has not hindered the progression of the UK's asylum strategy. The UK government's approach involves a comprehensive plan to manage irregular migration, with the anticipated "Safety of Rwanda Bill" playing a central role. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has expressed confidence in the bill's ability to address legal challenges and facilitate the commencement of removal flights. Expected to receive final endorsement shortly, this legislation paves the way for a collaborative framework involving multiple operators for the execution of removal flights. ADVERTISEMENT In an unexpected twist, the UK's Ministry of Defence (MoD) emerges as a pivotal participant in the asylum program. This partnership raises the possibility of utilizing military aircraft for deportations if commercial agreements falter. The Home Office, maintaining confidentiality regarding specific partnerships, acknowledges the MoD's significant role in the logistical aspects of migrant removals. ADVERTISEMENT The decision by RwandAir underscores the sensitivities and potential repercussions for carriers involved in such operations. Previous instances, such as the withdrawal of Mallorca-based Privilege Style from a similar agreement due to activist pressure, illustrate the challenges faced by airlines in balancing business operations with socio-political considerations. With the first removal flights to Rwanda anticipated in the coming months, the UK government may have to rely on its military resources as a contingency plan. This development emphasizes the multifaceted nature of implementing asylum policies, involving not just legal and political dimensions, but also the engagement of various stakeholders, including commercial and military aviation sectors. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

In a pointed address at the International Development Association (IDA)- Africa Heads of State summit in Nairobi, Kenya, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has voiced significant criticism of the World Bank's lending practices. Museveni accused the institution of prioritizing funding for seminars rather than addressing the structural bottlenecks that hinder socio-economic development in African nations. Museveni’s Call for Structural Development President Museveni argued that the World Bank's approach focuses excessively on non-essential activities, like seminars, which he metaphorically described as events "where people just sit and eat chapati." He emphasized the urgent need for the lender to pivot towards supporting vital sectors such as irrigation and infrastructure, which are crucial for the continent's development. "Africa does not need sustainable underdevelopment; it needs socio-economic transformation," Museveni stated. Challenges in Funding and Economic Growth Highlighting the challenges faced by the private sector in Africa, President Museveni pointed out that effective growth requires low-cost production in crucial areas like transport and electricity, as well as affordable funding for manufacturing. He criticized the ease with which funding for seminars is approved, contrasting it sharply with the difficulties in securing loans for agricultural development. Critique of International Monetary Policies The summit also touched on broader criticisms of international monetary policies, particularly those of the World Bank and IMF. Critics argue that these policies often exacerbate unemployment, poverty, and economic disparity in African countries, impeding genuine sustainable development. Moreover, the dependency on imported manufactured goods has worsened the balance of payments deficit across the continent, leading to unsustainable foreign debt burdens. Local Initiatives and Economic Independence In an effort to combat these challenges locally, President Museveni has spearheaded initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM), aimed at integrating more Ugandans into the money economy. Despite the lack of external funding, the government has allocated significant resources—$300 million annually—to provide essential inputs like coffee seedlings to rural populations. Museveni's Vision for Africa’s Future Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 3, 2024 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kenya, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda on the right of world bank headquarters In a pointed address at the International Development Association (IDA)- Africa Heads of State summit in Nairobi, Kenya, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has voiced significant criticism of the World Bank's lending practices. Museveni accused the institution of prioritizing funding for seminars rather than addressing the structural bottlenecks that hinder socio-economic development in African nations. Museveni’s Call for Structural Development President Museveni argued that the World Bank's approach focuses excessively on non-essential activities, like seminars, which he metaphorically described as events "where people just sit and eat chapati." He emphasized the urgent need for the lender to pivot towards supporting vital sectors such as irrigation and infrastructure, which are crucial for the continent's development. "Africa does not need sustainable underdevelopment; it needs socio-economic transformation," Museveni stated. Challenges in Funding and Economic Growth Highlighting the challenges faced by the private sector in Africa, President Museveni pointed out that effective growth requires low-cost production in crucial areas like transport and electricity, as well as affordable funding for manufacturing. He criticized the ease with which funding for seminars is approved, contrasting it sharply with the difficulties in securing loans for agricultural development. ADVERTISEMENT Critique of International Monetary Policies The summit also touched on broader criticisms of international monetary policies, particularly those of the World Bank and IMF. Critics argue that these policies often exacerbate unemployment, poverty, and economic disparity in African countries, impeding genuine sustainable development. Moreover, the dependency on imported manufactured goods has worsened the balance of payments deficit across the continent, leading to unsustainable foreign debt burdens. Local Initiatives and Economic Independence In an effort to combat these challenges locally, President Museveni has spearheaded initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM), aimed at integrating more Ugandans into the money economy. Despite the lack of external funding, the government has allocated significant resources—$300 million annually—to provide essential inputs like coffee seedlings to rural populations. ADVERTISEMENT Museveni's Vision for Africa’s Future Museveni also reiterated the necessity for Africa to cease exporting raw materials and instead focus on adding value locally to drive development. He called for a shift from mere quantitative growth to qualitative change, metaphorically comparing economic growth to the development of a pregnancy, which must culminate in birth rather than stagnation. The President's remarks underscore a critical need for a paradigm shift in how developmental aid and loans are structured and utilized in Africa. As the continent faces increasing economic challenges, the focus on transformative, rather than transactional, support could be key to achieving long-term prosperity. President Museveni’s bold critique at the IDA summit has highlighted significant issues with current international economic assistance models and set the stage for a re-evaluation of how development aid is administered in Africa. With a call for more targeted investments in infrastructure and manufacturing, Uganda is pushing for changes that could potentially reshape the economic landscape of the continent. 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

Migrants in South Africa’s Western Cape are hiding in mountains as xenophobic violence spreads. African migrants in South Africa’s Western Cape are fleeing into mountains and emergency shelters after anti-immigrant mobs reportedly went door-to-door ordering foreigners to leave, according to a Reuters report . The fear has been especially visible in Kleinmond, where migrants from Mozambique and Malawi said they abandoned homes after threats and intimidation. Some spent nights hiding outdoors before reaching a local town hall, where about 100 migrants were sheltering. The violence follows a wider surge in xenophobic attacks across South Africa. Mozambique said five of its citizens were killed in Mossel Bay, while reports said hundreds of Mozambicans were affected by the unrest and some returned home , reports . Human Rights Watch has warned that recent vigilante attacks have targeted foreign nationals in South Africa, with concerns over weak protection from authorities. President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned xenophobic violence while also calling for stronger migration management. For many migrants, the mountains became a temporary refuge because staying at home felt more dangerous than sleeping outside. The crisis highlights how anti-immigrant tensions, unemployment fears and vigilante action are placing vulnerable African communities at immediate risk. Continue Reading Full Article INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS WHY Migrants Are Seeking Refuge in South Africa’s Mountains By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 5, 2026 Jun 5, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: African migrants in South Africa’s Western Cape are fleeing into mountains and emergency shelters after anti-immigrant mobs reportedly went door-to-door ordering foreigners to leave, according to a Reuters report . The fear has been especially visible in Kleinmond, where migrants from Mozambique and Malawi said they abandoned homes after threats and intimidation. Some spent nights hiding outdoors before reaching a local town hall, where about 100 migrants were sheltering. ADVERTISEMENT The violence follows a wider surge in xenophobic attacks across South Africa. Mozambique said five of its citizens were killed in Mossel Bay, while reports said hundreds of Mozambicans were affected by the unrest and some returned home , reports . Human Rights Watch has warned that recent vigilante attacks have targeted foreign nationals in South Africa, with concerns over weak protection from authorities. President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned xenophobic violence while also calling for stronger migration management. ADVERTISEMENT For many migrants, the mountains became a temporary refuge because staying at home felt more dangerous than sleeping outside. The crisis highlights how anti-immigrant tensions, unemployment fears and vigilante action are placing vulnerable African communities at immediate risk. 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 Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Business Trends Killarney Mall Transfer Completed in R397.5 Million Deal . Elections Monitoring South Africa Election 2026: ANC Leads, MK Wins KZN Councils . Elections Monitoring South Africa Election Results: How to Read the Count . Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: Voting Hours, IDs and Ballots . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances Gauteng's DA lead and other council results show why the municipal count remains unsettled. . Business Trends Killarney Mall Transfer Completed in R397.5 Million Deal Octodec confirms the sale, while AJP’s plans include support for two black women entrepreneurs. . Elections Monitoring South Africa Election 2026: ANC Leads, MK Wins KZN Councils Early results show MK Party victories in KwaZulu-Natal and a Service Delivery Party breakthrough. . Elections Monitoring South Africa Election Results: How to Read the Count A practical guide to partial tallies, projections, ward winners and municipal council seats. . Tags South Africa South Africa South Africa News South Africa News South Africa News South Africa News

Rwandans reject Trump’s deportation deal. Rwanda is not a dumping ground. Say NO to Western exploitation.#ProAfrica #StopTheDeal The United States and Rwanda are now discussing a new deportation deal but we, as proud Africans, say NO . This is the same bad idea that already failed when Rwanda tried it with the United Kingdom. In that old UK-Rwanda plan, the British government wanted to send asylum seekers , people looking for safety, to Rwanda in exchange for money. But many human rights groups warned it was dangerous. Even the UK’s own Supreme Court said it was illegal , and the deal was cancelled. The British people saw it for what it was, a political trick. Why should we now allow the United States to do the same thing? Now, under Trump’s new immigration crackdown, the U.S. wants to pay Rwanda to take in deported migrants, even those who already served their time in U.S. prisons . That includes people who were treated unfairly in America’s broken justice system. Trump’s team says they want to send the "most despicable human beings" far from the U.S. ,as if Africans are less human, and Rwanda is some kind of trash bin. Let’s be clear: Rwanda is not a prison island. Africans are not second-class humans. We will not be paid to destroy other people’s lives. This deal is not about immigration. It’s about buying political silence. The U.S. wants to reward Kagame’s regime in exchange for looking the other way on human rights abuses. It’s the same Western game, use African soil to fix their problems, then blame us when things go wrong. We Africans are awake now. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 18, 2025 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The United States and Rwanda are now discussing a new deportation deal but we, as proud Africans, say NO . This is the same bad idea that already failed when Rwanda tried it with the United Kingdom. In that old UK-Rwanda plan, the British government wanted to send asylum seekers , people looking for safety, to Rwanda in exchange for money. But many human rights groups warned it was dangerous. Even the UK’s own Supreme Court said it was illegal , and the deal was cancelled. The British people saw it for what it was, a political trick. Why should we now allow the United States to do the same thing? Now, under Trump’s new immigration crackdown, the U.S. wants to pay Rwanda to take in deported migrants, even those who already served their time in U.S. prisons . That includes people who were treated unfairly in America’s broken justice system. Trump’s team says they want to send the "most despicable human beings" far from the U.S. ,as if Africans are less human, and Rwanda is some kind of trash bin. ADVERTISEMENT Let’s be clear: Rwanda is not a prison island. Africans are not second-class humans. We will not be paid to destroy other people’s lives. This deal is not about immigration. It’s about buying political silence. The U.S. wants to reward Kagame’s regime in exchange for looking the other way on human rights abuses. It’s the same Western game, use African soil to fix their problems, then blame us when things go wrong. We Africans are awake now. Just like we stood up against the UK-Rwanda deal, we must do it again. No matter your political view, this is a question of dignity. Human beings are not cargo to be traded between powerful leaders. ADVERTISEMENT What We Demand: Immediate end to all talks between Rwanda and the U.S. on this deportation plan. Full transparency and public involvement in any international agreement affecting Rwandan citizens. Independent legal review to protect Rwanda’s sovereignty and moral standing. To all Rwandans and friends of Africa: Speak loudly. Speak clearly. Say NO to Western deportation deals. Say YES to human rights and dignity for all. Rwanda belongs to Rwandans, not to Trump, not to the UK, not to anyone else. 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 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 East Africa East Africa Great Lakes Region Great Lakes Region

Learn who the Suri people are, where they live, and why their culture is more than warrior images and lip plates. The Suri people live in southwest Ethiopia, near the border with South Sudan. Many outside stories describe them through striking images: young men in stick-fighting contests, women wearing lip plates, painted bodies, cattle camps, and proud warriors standing in wide grasslands. Those images are real parts of Suri life, but they are not the whole story. The Suri are pastoral and agro-pastoral people with deep ties to cattle, land, age grades, ritual leaders, marriage alliances, and neighboring communities. Their culture includes courage and combat, but also farming, honey production, rain rituals, trade, family obligations, and adaptation to drought, conflict, and modern state pressure. As David Turton warned in his study of lip-plate tourism among the nearby Mursi, outsiders often frame these communities with words like “‘remote’, warriors’ and ‘wilderness’” ( Turton, 2004, p. 1 ). That kind of framing can flatten living people into symbols. Quick Facts About the Suri People Location: Southwest Ethiopia, especially around Surma/Suri woreda and the Kibish area near South Sudan. Names: Suri is an important self-name; Surma is often used in administrative and outside sources. Language: Tirma-Chai/Suri, a Surmic language listed by Glottolog . Livelihood: Cattle herding, crop farming, honey production, and some work linked to nearby gold-mining areas. Known for: Cattle culture, donga stick-fighting, body painting, lip plates, age-grade systems, and ritual leadership. Important caution: “Warrior culture” is only one part of Suri identity. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Who Are the Suri People? Ethiopia’s Proud Warrior Culture By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jul 2, 2026 Jul 2, 2026 10 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Suri people live in southwest Ethiopia, near the border with South Sudan. Many outside stories describe them through striking images: young men in stick-fighting contests, women wearing lip plates, painted bodies, cattle camps, and proud warriors standing in wide grasslands. Approximate location of the Suri people (also known as the Surma) in southwestern Ethiopia. The Suri primarily inhabit areas around Omo National Park, extending toward the South Sudan border in the West Omo region. Those images are real parts of Suri life, but they are not the whole story. The Suri are pastoral and agro-pastoral people with deep ties to cattle, land, age grades, ritual leaders, marriage alliances, and neighboring communities. Their culture includes courage and combat, but also farming, honey production, rain rituals, trade, family obligations, and adaptation to drought, conflict, and modern state pressure. As David Turton warned in his study of lip-plate tourism among the nearby Mursi, outsiders often frame these communities with words like “‘remote’, warriors’ and ‘wilderness’” ( Turton, 2004, p. 1 ). That kind of framing can flatten living people into symbols. Quick Facts About the Suri People Location: Southwest Ethiopia, especially around Surma/Suri woreda and the Kibish area near South Sudan. Names: Suri is an important self-name; Surma is often used in administrative and outside sources. Language: Tirma-Chai/Suri, a Surmic language listed by Glottolog . Livelihood: Cattle herding, crop farming, honey production, and some work linked to nearby gold-mining areas. Known for: Cattle culture, donga stick-fighting, body painting, lip plates, age-grade systems, and ritual leadership. Important caution: “Warrior culture” is only one part of Suri identity. Who Are the Suri? The Suri are an agro-pastoral people of southwest Ethiopia. In many outside sources, they are also called Surma, but writers should use the terms carefully. Young suri girls ADORNED Suri woman displays traditional face painting and handmade adornments Suri woman displays traditional face painting and handmade adornments Suri woman displays traditional face painting and handmade adornments Anthropologist Jon Abbink , who conducted field research among the Suri, identifies the Suri as people of southwestern Ethiopia whose public image has often been shaped by tourism, photography, and documentary media. He also warns that outside portrayals often turn the Suri into an exotic “tribe” rather than showing them as people with their own history, pressures, and interests. For language and subgroup naming, Glottolog’s Tirma-Chai entry lists Suri, Surma, Tirmaga, Tirma, and Chai among related names for the Tirma-Chai language. The Endangered Languages Project also points readers to a sociolinguistic survey on Tirma, Chai, Baale, and Mursi, which is useful for explaining why “Suri,” “Surma,” and related labels should not be flattened into one simple category. ADVERTISEMENT This matters because many travel articles use “Suri,” “Surma,” “Mursi,” and “Surmic” as if they mean the same thing. They do not. The Suri share some cultural practices with neighboring peoples, but they should not be treated as interchangeable with the Mursi or other Omo Valley groups. Further Reading Jon Abbink, “Suri Images: the Return of Exoticism and the Commodification of an Ethiopian ‘Tribe’” Useful for: Suri identity, media representation, tourism stereotypes. Glottolog: Tirma-Chai Useful for: language naming, alternate names, ISO code. Where Do the Suri Live? The Suri live in southwest Ethiopia, in a remote lowland and borderland setting. Abbink describes their homeland as a peripheral lowland area where agro-pastoral life is shaped by rainfall, cattle disease, insecurity, and relations with neighboring groups. This landscape is important because Suri life cannot be understood only through famous images of lip plates or stick-fighting. Their society is also shaped by cattle herding, cultivation, local conflict, state pressure, tourism, and changing access to land and resources. The Suri live in southwest Ethiopia, in a borderland region where agro-pastoral life combines cattle, crops, local exchange, and movement across difficult terrain. Cattle and Daily Life A Suri child tends cattle Cattle are central to Suri life, but not only as economic property. Abbink’s peer-reviewed article, “Love and death of cattle”, examines the emotional, social, ritual, and economic importance of livestock among the Suri. ADVERTISEMENT Cattle are not just wealth among the Suri. They are tied to food, status, marriage, ritual life, social identity, and emotional attachment, as Abbink’s research on Suri attitudes toward livestock shows. Donga / Sagine Stick-Fighting For stick-fighting, use Abbink instead of Seid. In “Suri Images”, Abbink notes that the practice is better described as ceremonial duelling, and gives the Suri term sagine. That is more precise than simply calling it “donga,” which is often used loosely in travel writing. A Suri warrior competes in the traditional Sagine stick-fighting a cultural contest that demonstrates courage AND endurance Suri stick-fighting is often called “donga” in popular writing, but Abbink notes that the more precise Suri term is sagine, or ceremonial duelling. It should not be described as a tourist performance or random violence. It is a socially recognized contest connected to male reputation, public life, and ritualized conflict. The Suri are a people of southwest Ethiopia. In older and outside sources, they are often called Surma. But the name is not simple. Tirma and Chai are closely linked linguistically, while Baale is culturally connected but linguistically different. Many articles use “Suri,” “Surma,” “Mursi,” and “Surmic” as if they mean the same thing. They do not. The Suri share some practices with neighboring groups, including lip plates and cattle-based life, but they should not be treated as interchangeable with the Mursi or other Omo Valley peoples. Lip Plates, Beauty, and Misunderstanding Suri women are often photographed wearing large clay lip plates. This has become one of the most repeated images of Suri and Mursi communities. But it is also one of the most misunderstood. The research confirms that lip plates are associated with Suri/Surma culture, but it does not provide enough Suri-specific evidence to explain every meaning. A two-page profile says lip plates are signs of beauty and prestige, but that source is low confidence. What can be said safely is that outsiders often explain lip plates badly. David Turton’s work on Mursi lip plates challenges two common claims: that the size of a lip plate decides bridewealth, and that lip plates began to make women unattractive to slave raiders. Turton records that when a Mursi woman is asked why she stretched her lip, she may simply answer, “It is our custom” (Turton, 2004, p. 1). Because Turton’s article focuses mainly on the Mursi, not the Suri, it should be used as a caution, not as a full explanation of Suri lip plates. 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 Ethiopia Rebases GDP: Economy Now Measured at $210.7 Billion . Biography Timnit Gebru Biography: AI Ethics, DAIR and Right Livelihood . Sports Trends Guye Adola and Tigst Assefa Win Berlin . Conflict Zones Tigray Forces Seize Airports as Fighting Spreads . International Relations Seven Ethiopian Armed Groups Form Anti-Government Alliance . ADVERTISEMENT Religion and Beliefs The strongest evidence in the dossier concerns ritual leadership rather than a full religious system. The Komoru’s role includes rain rituals, blessings, divination, cattle-related ritual care, and reconciliation. Seid Nuru also describes ritual links between the Suri and Dizi, including rain-control alliances and meetings between ritual leaders (Seid Nuru, 2021, pp. 70–71). These details show that ritual power is tied to rain, land, cattle, survival, and peace-making. Modern Life and Challenges Modern Suri life is shaped by drought, livestock disease, crop disease, conflict, weak roads, limited electricity, low literacy, poor sanitation, and limited veterinary access. The Ethiopian disaster-risk profile identifies drought, livestock disease, crop pests, and conflict as major hazards. These pressures are not just “modern problems” added onto tradition. They affect cattle, farming, food security, movement, marriage payments, conflict, and relations with neighboring groups. Seid Nuru’s thesis also links conflict since the 1980s to economic, environmental, political, cultural, and institutional pressures, including competition over gold-mining areas and cross-border instability. Common Misconceptions The first misconception is that the Suri are only warriors. Courage and combat matter, but so do cattle, elders, ritual leaders, women’s work, farming, honey, trade, marriage, and language. The second misconception is that lip plates exist because of slave raiders. The third misconception is that a larger lip plate automatically means higher bridewealth. Insufficient evidence found for the Suri, and Turton challenges this claim among the Mursi. The fourth misconception is that Suri and Mursi are the same people. They are related borderland peoples with some shared practices, but they should not be merged. Conclusion The Suri people are one of Ethiopia’s most visually recognized communities, but they deserve to be known beyond the camera frame. Yes, Suri culture includes warriors, donga stick-fighting, cattle pride, body painting, and lip plates. But it also includes complex leadership, ritual authority, interethnic alliances, farming, honey production, language, migration histories, and daily resilience in a difficult borderland environment. To understand the Suri well, we have to hold both truths: their culture is proud and powerful, and it is also human, changing, and much richer than the word “warrior” can hold. Sources and reference: Jon Abbink, “Ritual and Political Forms of Violent Practice among the Suri of Southern Ethiopia”, Cahiers d’Études africaines, 1998 . Dimmendaal and Last, eds., Surmic Languages and Cultures, 1998 . Glottolog: Surmic. David Turton, “Lip-plates and ‘the people who take photographs’”, Anthropology Today, 2004 . ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Economic Reports Ethiopia Rebases GDP: Economy Now Measured at $210.7 Billion The revision adds about 59% to measured output, but officials say the economy did not grow overnight . Biography Timnit Gebru Biography: AI Ethics, DAIR and Right Livelihood Meet Timnit Gebru, the Ethiopian-born AI researcher honored with the 2026 Right Livelihood Award. . 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DRC signs an MoU with Greek firm Geothermiki to study agropoles—an early step toward pilot sites, better yields, and food security The Democratic Republic of Congo has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Greek firm Geothermiki to urgently launch technical studies for agropoles across the country an early-stage move that matters less for the signature itself than for what the studies could unlock: better planning, stronger productivity, and a more credible path to food security. At its core, the agreement signed in Kinshasa on February 7 by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Muhindo Nzangi Butondo signals that the government is trying to start with fundamentals: mapping what land can sustainably support, identifying where pilot agropole sites make sense, and determining which crop models fit local realities before scaling nationally as first reported by Beto News . Agropoles are a planning test before they’re an investment story Agropoles are often discussed as infrastructure-and-investment packages zones that link production areas to processing, storage, and markets. But they fail quickly when site selection is political instead of technical, or when production assumptions do not match soil quality, climate, logistics, and farmer capacity. That is why the “studies first” approach matters: it is an attempt to reduce risk before committing to expensive rollout decisions. In the ministry’s framing, the short-term goal is to complete the technical studies needed to establish pilot sites in several provinces, then expand gradually at national scale. If executed properly, that sequencing can help avoid scattered pilot projects that do not connect to wider value chains or fail after initial launches. The DRC’s food security pressures are persistent and complex, shaped by conflict in the east, shocks to livelihoods, and high prices. International agencies have repeatedly warned that the country faces one of the world’s largest food insecurity burdens, with conflict and insecurity directly disrupting agricultural livelihoods. Against that background, any policy that aims to increase stable domestic production and reduce vulnerability to shocks has heightened importance. The agreement’s stated focus on assessing agricultural land potential and optimizing crops to meet growing food needs points to a practical reality: raising output is not only about expanding cultivated area; it is also about improving yields, selecting appropriate crops, and strengthening production models that can hold up under local constraints. Why technical expertise is part of the signal The ministry says it intends to draw on international expertise to improve agricultural practices, introduce innovative technologies, and support a sustainable transformation of the agricultural landscape. That does not automatically translate to results but it does suggest an emphasis on standards, data, and structured design, which are typically weak points in large-scale agriculture modernization programs. Continue Reading Full Article ECONOMIC REPORTS Why the DRC–Greek Agropole Agreement Matters for Food Security By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Feb 9, 2026 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Greek firm Geothermiki to urgently launch technical studies for agropoles across the country an early-stage move that matters less for the signature itself than for what the studies could unlock: better planning, stronger productivity, and a more credible path to food security. At its core, the agreement signed in Kinshasa on February 7 by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Muhindo Nzangi Butondo signals that the government is trying to start with fundamentals: mapping what land can sustainably support, identifying where pilot agropole sites make sense, and determining which crop models fit local realities before scaling nationally as first reported by Beto News . Agropoles are a planning test before they’re an investment story Agropoles are often discussed as infrastructure-and-investment packages zones that link production areas to processing, storage, and markets. But they fail quickly when site selection is political instead of technical, or when production assumptions do not match soil quality, climate, logistics, and farmer capacity. That is why the “studies first” approach matters: it is an attempt to reduce risk before committing to expensive rollout decisions. ADVERTISEMENT In the ministry’s framing, the short-term goal is to complete the technical studies needed to establish pilot sites in several provinces, then expand gradually at national scale. If executed properly, that sequencing can help avoid scattered pilot projects that do not connect to wider value chains or fail after initial launches. The DRC’s food security pressures are persistent and complex, shaped by conflict in the east, shocks to livelihoods, and high prices. International agencies have repeatedly warned that the country faces one of the world’s largest food insecurity burdens, with conflict and insecurity directly disrupting agricultural livelihoods. Against that background, any policy that aims to increase stable domestic production and reduce vulnerability to shocks has heightened importance. The agreement’s stated focus on assessing agricultural land potential and optimizing crops to meet growing food needs points to a practical reality: raising output is not only about expanding cultivated area; it is also about improving yields, selecting appropriate crops, and strengthening production models that can hold up under local constraints. Why technical expertise is part of the signal The ministry says it intends to draw on international expertise to improve agricultural practices, introduce innovative technologies, and support a sustainable transformation of the agricultural landscape. That does not automatically translate to results but it does suggest an emphasis on standards, data, and structured design, which are typically weak points in large-scale agriculture modernization programs. ADVERTISEMENT More broadly, agricultural growth poles (often called agropoles) have been used across parts of Africa as government-led strategies supported by multilateral and regional institutions, precisely because they aim to coordinate production, processing, and markets rather than treat farming as an isolated activity. The DRC’s choice to start with technical groundwork aligns with that logic: coordination requires credible baselines. The ministry notes that the partnership could generate jobs, boost local economies, and create opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs in the agri-food sector. Those outcomes are possible, but they depend on later steps that have not yet been announced: how pilot sites are chosen, whether infrastructure and financing follow, and whether governance prevents elite capture and ensures farmers can participate meaningfully. In other words, the agreement is best understood as a preparatory phase. The most important near-term measure is not how ambitious the vision sounds, but whether the studies produce clear, public-facing priorities: which provinces are targeted for pilots, what value chains are selected, what constraints are identified, and what sequencing is proposed for infrastructure and market access. 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 Mining and Minerals Kamilombe Relocation: Compensation and ZEA 371 Explained . Mining and Minerals Zijin Reports About $6 Billion in Cumulative DRC Mining Investment . Mining and Minerals DRC Takes Mining Investment Campaign to China Conference . Mining and Minerals Eastern DRC copper project delivers promising new drilling results . Mining and Minerals DRC to Launch State-Controlled Geological Data Bank in 2026 . ADVERTISEMENT Three indicators will show whether this becomes more than a headline: Publication of study outputs, or at least a summary of findings and selected pilot areas Clear pilot-site criteria tied to land potential, logistics, and value-chain viability A financing and implementation roadmap that matches the “pilot first, scale later” approach For now, the significance is that the DRC is putting technical preparation at the center of an agropole push an approach that, if sustained, can improve the odds that future investments translate into higher productivity and stronger food security outcomes. Source: Beto .cd ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Mining and Minerals Kamilombe Relocation: Compensation and ZEA 371 Explained Pit compensation, ore sales and access to a replacement mining zone are separate questions. . Mining and Minerals Zijin Reports About $6 Billion in Cumulative DRC Mining Investment Zijin says its cumulative DRC mining investments total about $6 billion across copper, cobalt and . Mining and Minerals DRC Takes Mining Investment Campaign to China Conference DRC Mines Minister Louis Watum leads a delegation to China Mining 2026 to promote projects . Mining and Minerals Eastern DRC copper project delivers promising new drilling results Copper Intelligence says all 13 main drill holes at its Butembo project in eastern DRC intersected . Tags DRC Mining DRC Mining DR.Congo DR.Congo DRC Economy DRC Economy Africa Africa DR Congo Investment DR Congo Investment African Union African Union DRC Peace Efforts DRC Peace Efforts

DRC and M23 resume talks in Switzerland as mediators push for progress on ceasefire, civilians and disarmament. The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels resumed a new round of peace talks in Switzerland on Monday, in the latest effort to revive a stalled process aimed at ending violence in the country’s east. The negotiations mark a fresh phase in a dialogue that had previously been held in Doha, with both sides returning to the table nearly nine months after signing a declaration of principles meant to pave the way for a final agreement. The talks are expected to focus on practical next steps, including humanitarian access, civilian protection, prisoner exchanges, and the disarmament and reintegration of fighters. The question of ceasefire monitoring also remains central after earlier commitments failed to produce lasting calm on the ground. The July 19, 2025 declaration signed under Qatari mediation committed the parties to work toward a broader peace agreement, with the United States publicly welcoming that framework at the time. More recently, the UN said previous Doha discussions had produced terms for a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism, even as insecurity in eastern DRC remained volatile. This latest round also reflects a shift in the diplomatic format. Reports in recent days indicated that upcoming meetings between Kinshasa and M23 would move to Switzerland, while broader international involvement around the process continues to grow. That wider push matters because fighting in North Kivu and South Kivu has continued despite repeated ceasefire calls, leaving negotiators under pressure to turn past commitments into measurable progress. For Kinshasa, the negotiations are another attempt to convert diplomacy into concrete security gains. For M23, they are a chance to press unresolved demands that have lingered since the earlier agreement, including security arrangements and implementation guarantees. Whether the Switzerland round produces a breakthrough may depend less on new declarations than on whether both sides can agree on enforceable steps. Continue Reading Full Article WAR IN EASTERN DRC DRC, M23 resume talks in Switzerland to push peace deal By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Apr 13, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels resumed a new round of peace talks in Switzerland on Monday, in the latest effort to revive a stalled process aimed at ending violence in the country’s east. The negotiations mark a fresh phase in a dialogue that had previously been held in Doha, with both sides returning to the table nearly nine months after signing a declaration of principles meant to pave the way for a final agreement. The talks are expected to focus on practical next steps, including humanitarian access, civilian protection, prisoner exchanges, and the disarmament and reintegration of fighters. The question of ceasefire monitoring also remains central after earlier commitments failed to produce lasting calm on the ground. ADVERTISEMENT The July 19, 2025 declaration signed under Qatari mediation committed the parties to work toward a broader peace agreement, with the United States publicly welcoming that framework at the time. More recently, the UN said previous Doha discussions had produced terms for a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism, even as insecurity in eastern DRC remained volatile. This latest round also reflects a shift in the diplomatic format. Reports in recent days indicated that upcoming meetings between Kinshasa and M23 would move to Switzerland, while broader international involvement around the process continues to grow. ADVERTISEMENT That wider push matters because fighting in North Kivu and South Kivu has continued despite repeated ceasefire calls, leaving negotiators under pressure to turn past commitments into measurable progress. For Kinshasa, the negotiations are another attempt to convert diplomacy into concrete security gains. For M23, they are a chance to press unresolved demands that have lingered since the earlier agreement, including security arrangements and implementation guarantees. 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 Health News Uganda HIV Self-Test Assembly: Prices, Jobs and Exports . Banking and Finance Absa Dubai Office: Services, Eligibility and Contacts . Business & Investment 5 Best Citizenship by Investment Programs for Africans . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . ADVERTISEMENT Whether the Switzerland round produces a breakthrough may depend less on new declarations than on whether both sides can agree on enforceable steps. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Health News Uganda HIV Self-Test Assembly: Prices, Jobs and Exports Mukono factory assembles OraQuick kits, but the UGX 7,000 price remains a target . Banking and Finance Absa Dubai Office: Services, Eligibility and Contacts What African businesses and Gulf investors need to know about Absa’s new DIFC office. . Business & Investment 5 Best Citizenship by Investment Programs for Africans Compare five Caribbean second-passport programs, their investment costs, family benefits.... . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Tags Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo African Union African Union M23 Rebels News M23 Rebels News DR Congo Rising DR Congo Rising African Union African Union

The Cameroonian Football Federation (FÉCAFOOT) has decided not to renew the contract of head coach Rigobert Song following a lackluster performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. Song, who has been in charge of the Cameroon national team since February 28, 2022, will lose his job when his contract expires on February 24, 2024. During his tenure, Song managed six wins, suffered nine defeats, and secured eight draws in 23 matches. However, the team's early exit from AFCON 2023 after a 2-0 loss to Nigeria in the Round of 16 prompted the decision to seek a new direction for the national team. The Cameroon FA, led by former football star Samuel Eto’o , aims to rejuvenate the team and find a fresh approach to future competitions. As the contract comes to an end, the search for a new head coach begins, with expectations of revitalizing Cameroon's football fortunes. Despite the disappointment, Song's legacy as a former Cameroon international and his contributions to football remain significant. The federation now looks ahead to identifying a leader who can guide the team to success in upcoming tournaments. [ africatopsports ]. [ Wikipedia ] Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Feb 28, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Song on touch line. Image by Goal.com The Cameroonian Football Federation (FÉCAFOOT) has decided not to renew the contract of head coach Rigobert Song following a lackluster performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. Song, who has been in charge of the Cameroon national team since February 28, 2022, will lose his job when his contract expires on February 24, 2024. During his tenure, Song managed six wins, suffered nine defeats, and secured eight draws in 23 matches. However, the team's early exit from AFCON 2023 after a 2-0 loss to Nigeria in the Round of 16 prompted the decision to seek a new direction for the national team. ADVERTISEMENT The Cameroon FA, led by former football star Samuel Eto’o , aims to rejuvenate the team and find a fresh approach to future competitions. As the contract comes to an end, the search for a new head coach begins, with expectations of revitalizing Cameroon's football fortunes. Despite the disappointment, Song's legacy as a former Cameroon international and his contributions to football remain significant. The federation now looks ahead to identifying a leader who can guide the team to success in upcoming tournaments. [ africatopsports ]. [ Wikipedia ] 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

Etinosa Idemudia says she hopes to marry a kind and generous man, sharing her views on love and relationships. Nollywood actress Etinosa Idemudia has said she hopes to marry a kind and generous man, outlining the qualities she values most in a life partner. Speaking about her expectations for marriage, the actress emphasised that character and generosity are key traits she considers important in a relationship. Etinosa , known for her outspoken personality and active presence in the entertainment industry, noted that beyond material considerations, kindness remains a defining factor in choosing a partner. The actress has previously shared personal reflections on relationships and self-growth. Her latest remarks add to ongoing conversations among public figures about love, compatibility and long-term commitment. Etinosa Idemudia continues to balance her acting career with personal advocacy and public engagements, maintaining her influence within Nigeria’s entertainment scene. Source: The Sun Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article NOLLYWOOD UPDATES Etinosa Idemudia Says She Wants a Kind, Generous Man By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 28, 2026 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nollywood actress Etinosa Idemudia has said she hopes to marry a kind and generous man, outlining the qualities she values most in a life partner. Speaking about her expectations for marriage, the actress emphasised that character and generosity are key traits she considers important in a relationship. Etinosa , known for her outspoken personality and active presence in the entertainment industry, noted that beyond material considerations, kindness remains a defining factor in choosing a partner. ADVERTISEMENT The actress has previously shared personal reflections on relationships and self-growth. Her latest remarks add to ongoing conversations among public figures about love, compatibility and long-term commitment. Etinosa Idemudia continues to balance her acting career with personal advocacy and public engagements, maintaining her influence within Nigeria’s entertainment scene. ADVERTISEMENT Source: The Sun Nigeria Trending Now 2Baba Urges Focus on National Issues, Not His Marriage . Entertainment Bigiano claims he wrote hook for Davido’s ‘Dami Duro’ . Entertainment Tiwa Savage Joins Nigeria’s 800M Spotify Streams Club . Entertainment Adekunle Gold Sets Lagos Homecoming With 55-Piece Orchestra . Entertainment Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Entertainment Sola Allyson Explains Her Transition From Islam to Christianity Singer cites childhood experiences, family shifts and spiritual discovery in her faith journey. . Entertainment Champz Becomes Youngest African Artist to Hit 1M Spotify Listeners Fourteen-year-old Champz sets new streaming milestone weeks after releasing his debut EP. . Fashion Dr Teal’s Marks Year-End With Wellness-Themed Nigerian Owambe Event Brand hosts cultural wellness celebration in Lagos with performances, spa sessions and celebrity guests . Nollywood Updates Tonto Dikeh recounts recovery from smoking, addiction struggles Actress shares testimony at Streams of Joy church on quitting smoking, alcohol and anger . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Nigerian content creator Sirbalo shares how he worked as a bus conductor and gala hawker before gaining fame and graduating from LASU. Nigerian content creator Obotuke Timothy Ochuko, popularly known as Sirbalo, has spoken publicly about his early struggles before rising to prominence on social media. The Warri, Delta State-born entertainer disclosed that he once worked as a bus conductor and a gala hawker in Lagos, experiences he described as part of a difficult journey toward personal and professional growth. Sirbalo shared the reflections in a series of Facebook posts, accompanied by photographs comparing his life before fame with his current status. In the posts, he expressed gratitude for his progress and encouraged followers facing hardship not to lose hope. According to him, he previously worked as a bus conductor on the Igando–Iyana Iba route in Lagos. He later completed his studies at Lagos State University (LASU), marking a major turning point in his life. In additional posts, the content creator emphasized perseverance, attributing his success to faith and determination despite years of financial and personal challenges. Sirbalo, who is now 33, has also revealed in past interviews that he began his career in the entertainment industry in 2014, working behind the scenes in Nollywood as a special effects director before transitioning into content creation. Source: The Sun Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Sirbalo recounts journey from bus conductor to content creator By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jan 5, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian content creator Obotuke Timothy Ochuko, popularly known as Sirbalo, has spoken publicly about his early struggles before rising to prominence on social media. The Warri, Delta State-born entertainer disclosed that he once worked as a bus conductor and a gala hawker in Lagos, experiences he described as part of a difficult journey toward personal and professional growth. ADVERTISEMENT Sirbalo shared the reflections in a series of Facebook posts, accompanied by photographs comparing his life before fame with his current status. In the posts, he expressed gratitude for his progress and encouraged followers facing hardship not to lose hope. According to him, he previously worked as a bus conductor on the Igando–Iyana Iba route in Lagos. He later completed his studies at Lagos State University (LASU), marking a major turning point in his life. ADVERTISEMENT In additional posts, the content creator emphasized perseverance, attributing his success to faith and determination despite years of financial and personal challenges. Sirbalo, who is now 33, has also revealed in past interviews that he began his career in the entertainment industry in 2014, working behind the scenes in Nollywood as a special effects director before transitioning into content creation. 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: The Sun Nigeria 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

NSFAS 2027 applications close on 31 October 2026. Check official application steps, supporting forms, status tracking and fraud warnings. The NSFAS statement published by the South African government also warns against people charging for application assistance or promising guaranteed funding. Applying on time starts the assessment process; it does not guarantee an award. The closing date is 31 October 2026, and NSFAS says there will be no extension. Applicants should complete and submit their application through an official NSFAS channel, attach the required documents and retain their reference number. A saved application is not the same as a submitted one. Complete the application, then submit it The official 2027 application guidance gives an application window of 18 September to 31 October 2026. It describes the process as free and allows applicants to work online using a phone or another device. Start by creating or accessing your myNSFAS profile. New applicants need their South African ID number, cellphone number and email address. Existing users should sign in to their account rather than assume they must begin again. Enter your personal and household information carefully, provide the requested consent and attach supporting documents. Review the application before submitting. Keep the reference number and return to your account to check whether NSFAS needs anything further. XTRAfrica’s earlier NSFAS application overview provides background. For the current cycle, use the forms and instructions on NSFAS’s own 2027 pages. Check the funding category and requested forms The NSFAS funding FAQs distinguish bursaries from loans and explain that financial eligibility is only one part of the assessment. Applicants must also satisfy the other applicable requirements. For non-SASSA bursary applicants, the published gross combined household-income threshold is R350,000 or lessa year. For applicants with disabilities, it is R600,000 or less. Verified SASSA grant recipients meet the financial requirement, but must still complete the applicable process. Check that the institution and qualification qualify for funding. Continue Reading Full Article EDUCATION NSFAS 2027 Deadline: Apply by 31 October Through Official Channels By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 22, 2026 Oct 22, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The NSFAS statement published by the South African government also warns against people charging for application assistance or promising guaranteed funding. Applying on time starts the assessment process; it does not guarantee an award. The closing date is 31 October 2026, and NSFAS says there will be no extension. Applicants should complete and submit their application through an official NSFAS channel, attach the required documents and retain their reference number. A saved application is not the same as a submitted one. Complete the application, then submit it The official 2027 application guidance gives an application window of 18 September to 31 October 2026. It describes the process as free and allows applicants to work online using a phone or another device. Start by creating or accessing your myNSFAS profile. New applicants need their South African ID number, cellphone number and email address. Existing users should sign in to their account rather than assume they must begin again. Enter your personal and household information carefully, provide the requested consent and attach supporting documents. Review the application before submitting. Keep the reference number and return to your account to check whether NSFAS needs anything further. ADVERTISEMENT XTRAfrica’s earlier NSFAS application overview provides background. For the current cycle, use the forms and instructions on NSFAS’s own 2027 pages. Check the funding category and requested forms The NSFAS funding FAQs distinguish bursaries from loans and explain that financial eligibility is only one part of the assessment. Applicants must also satisfy the other applicable requirements. For non-SASSA bursary applicants, the published gross combined household-income threshold is R350,000 or lessa year. For applicants with disabilities, it is R600,000 or less. Verified SASSA grant recipients meet the financial requirement, but must still complete the applicable process. Check that the institution and qualification qualify for funding. A complete, signed consent form allows financial verification. Other forms depend on circumstances. Read the requirements attached to your application rather than assuming every applicant has the same checklist. ADVERTISEMENT Use clear, complete files. Check names and ID numbers, required signatures, every page and the correct year’s form. A readable document should show the entire page without cropped corners, glare or obscured text. Keep the 2027 cycle separate from earlier windows This deadline concerns funding for the 2027 academic year . It is separate from the 2026 TVET Trimester 3 application window previously covered by XTRAfrica. Check the year displayed in your account before completing an application or reading an outcome. A message concerning an earlier cycle should not be treated as confirmation that a new application has been submitted. After submission, read the full status message and any request for additional information. XTRAfrica’s 2026 status-check explainer describes the distinction between receipt, assessment and later stages, but applicants should follow the current wording and deadlines in their own account. 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 Do not pay for a promised outcome The NSFAS fraud-prevention advice says applicants should not pay anyone to process an application or follow up its outcome. It also warns against sharing myNSFAS login details and entering personal information through imitation links or groups. Keep control of your account, including when using a shared computer. Log out after each session. Someone offering assistance cannot guarantee approval, and a payment request should not be mistaken for an official application requirement. Use the official NSFAS contact page for assistance. It lists 08000 67327 and info@nsfas.org.za for general student enquiries, and speakup@nsfas.org.za for information about suspected fraud or corruption. 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