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Islamist Insurgency continue to Flare in Mozambique Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Jun 18, 2024 ​ In the early hours of May 10, Tomas Langa, a civil servant in Macomia, Cabo Delgado, was jolted awake by heavy gunfire. Through his window, he saw four armed men outside his house. Terrified, he fled to the countryside, surviving on cassava plants for three days. “I was lucky they only insulted me as I ran,” he said, recounting his narrow escape. Islamic State (IS) linked fighters attacked government buildings and looted shops and warehouses, keeping the town under siege for two days. They also raided a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) medical facility, seizing vehicles and supplies, forcing MSF to suspend operations in Macomia. Another resident, Alfane Silva, was detained and interrogated by eight gunmen. “They told me to run to the bush or they would kill me if I stayed in town,” he said. Government reinforcements arrived two days later, but the militants had already left, leaving behind a town without medical facilities, electricity, and a pervasive sense of fear. This resurgence of violence, which had declined due to security efforts by local forces and troops from neighboring states, coincides with the withdrawal of Southern African Development Community (Sadc) forces. About 2,000 Sadc soldiers from eight countries are set to leave by July 15, despite warnings from regional security experts that the area remains unstable. Botswana and Lesotho have already withdrawn, while Angola and Namibia are in the process of leaving. However, Tanzania will maintain 300 troops, and South Africa will keep its troops until the end of 2024, but not under the Sadc mission. Rwanda, which initially deployed 1,000 troops in 2021, announced it would send an additional 2,000 troops to support Mozambique. Rwandan army spokesperson Brig-Gen Ronald Rwivanga stated that their decision was independent of the Sadc withdrawal. The IS-affiliated al-Shabab group has been active in Cabo Delgado since 2017, causing widespread destruction and displacing communities. Their insurgency forced French energy giant Total Energies to suspend its $20 billion liquefied natural gas project in 2021. While security had improved with the deployment of Sadc and Rwandan troops, recent months have seen a resurgence of attacks, displacing over 110,000 people since December 2023. Mozambique's neighbors are closely monitoring the situation. Tanzania, which faced jihadist attacks in 2020, has increased security measures, although these have been costly, raising the defense budget by 10% annually since 2021. There are concerns that if the insurgency gains momentum, neighboring countries like Malawi could be affected. Experts argue that strengthening Mozambique's armed forces is crucial for a military victory. However, the long-term solution lies in addressing the social and economic challenges in the north, where living standards are lower than in the south, fueling discontent and recruitment by jihadists. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Bullet Wounds are Common in DRC,Goma ever since the resurgence of the Tutsi-led M23 militia Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 19, 2024 ​ Demonstrators denounce international silence on the crisis in DRC, and to show their support for the Congolese army in February. Photograph: Guerchom Ndebo/AFP/Getty In Goma, the capital of North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), crime and violence have surged as M23 rebels besiege the city. On April 16, three armed men robbed a city center mobile phone shop, stealing goods worth about £700 and fleeing on a motorbike. This incident occurred near the city hall, highlighting the growing lawlessness since the rebels blocked main roads into Goma in February. The city's residents, like the unnamed shop manager, have adapted to this dangerous new normal, with many accepting death and robberies as part of daily life. In April alone, at least 29 people were killed and 22 wounded in Goma, marking a record high in violence. The resurgence of the Tutsi-led M23 militia, backed by Rwanda according to UN and US reports, has trapped thousands of Congolese soldiers and pro-government fighters, known as Wazalendo, around Goma. The rebels renewed their insurgency in late 2021, capturing significant territory in North Kivu. The militia cut off Goma’s last overland supply route from Rwanda in February. Amid the chaos, armed men, including unpaid militias and Congolese soldiers, have resorted to crime, including robberies, extortion, and rape, both inside the city and in displacement camps housing 700,000 people. The Wazalendo, formed after President Félix Tshisekedi's call for vigilante groups, are among those accused of abuses. Despite efforts to curb the crime wave, such as a ban on Wazalendo carrying weapons in the city, violence remains rampant, especially in displacement camps where state control is weak. Médecins Sans Frontières reported 700 cases of rape per week in March, likely underestimating the true extent of the crisis. Gaspar Ndagijamana, a displaced taxi driver in the Kanyaruchinya camp, was shot for refusing to surrender his phone and later, his pregnant wife was also shot for refusing a demand for money. Both survived, though Laetitia has had pregnancy complications. As Goma grapples with this crisis, the international community continues to scrutinize Rwanda's alleged role in the conflict, while the city's residents endure relentless violence and insecurity. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Ethiopia Advances Towards the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Trial Trading Phase Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 23, 2024 ​ Gebremeskel Chala, Minister of the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI) Ethiopia is gearing up to initiate trial trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), signaling a significant leap in the continent's trade integration efforts. According to Gebremeskel Chala, Minister of the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI), Ethiopia is aligning its strategies to engage in the preliminary exchange of goods with selected African nations. The move comes as part of Ethiopia's commitment to the AfCFTA, aiming to eliminate 90% of import tariffs on agricultural and industrial products over the next decade. Additionally, the country plans to gradually remove tariffs on 7% of goods and exempt strategic items, ensuring policy flexibility. By approving tariffs for 6,000 commodities, Ethiopia positions itself as a key player in what is anticipated to become the world's largest free trade zone. This development is in line with the African Union's Agenda 2063, which envisions an economically robust continent. This strategic step, endorsed by African Union member states, marks a milestone in realizing intra-African trade potentials and fostering economic integration across the continent. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Rwanda Polls:Over 10,000 Rwandese nationals in Uganda registered to vote Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 12, 2024 Rwandans vote in Uganda August 3, 2017 As the Rwandan elections approach, over 10,000 Rwandese nationals residing in Uganda have registered to vote, according to Joseph Rutabana, the Rwanda High Commissioner to Uganda. Rutabana shared this news while addressing journalists at the Rwanda High Commission on Friday. To be eligible to vote, individuals must be Rwandan citizens registered by the National Electoral Commission. While Rwanda will hold its elections on Monday, Rwandans living in Uganda are scheduled to vote a day earlier, on Sunday. The presidential race features incumbent President Paul Kagame of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), opposition candidate Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party (DGP), and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana. Frank Habineza, 47, noted significant improvements in the campaign atmosphere compared to 2017. "People were not used to us. They thought we were enemies of the country. The reception was very bad; we were sent to campaign in graveyards, had stones thrown at us, and were beaten in some places,” he said. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

The AU Summit's Call for Tech-Driven Education Transformation Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 20, 2024 ​ The Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed the 3rd from Right as the chief host of AU Summit 2024 During the African Union (AU) Summit, participants emphasized the need for Africa to reimagine its education system to better incorporate technology and innovation. The core of the discussions revolved around aligning education with the continent's Agenda 2063, which aims to transform Africa into a global powerhouse through inclusive and sustainable development. This blueprint underscores the critical role of education in achieving the continent's long-term goals, including the development of key sectors such as agriculture, trade, transport, energy, and mining. The AU's focus for the year 2024 is on creating resilient education systems that can provide inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning opportunities for all Africans. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address the continent's education challenges, making education more accessible and fit for the 21st century. The summit highlighted the importance of girl's education and empowerment as a fundamental human right and discussed the mobilization of member states, stakeholders, and civil society organizations to support the 2024 AU Education Roadmap. To achieve these objectives, the AU is advocating for equitable and inclusive education policies that can prevent violence and promote peace. This approach involves collaboration with various international organizations and the implementation of innovative solutions to enhance the education sector in Africa. The summit's discussions on education are crucial for laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and sustainable future for the continent. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Uganda Holds Dominance in Cecafa Zone as per Latest FIFA Rankings Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 5, 2024 ​ In a noteworthy development in African football, Uganda continues to lead the pack in the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (Cecafa) Zone according to the recent FIFA rankings unveiled this Thursday. With a stable position at 92nd globally, Uganda boasts 124.15 points, securing its 19th place in the African continent's football hierarchy. Despite facing a challenging phase with a 4-0 loss to Comoros and a 2-2 stalemate against Ghana in friendly matches held in Marrakech, Morocco, last month, Uganda's football team has managed to maintain its standing. These matches, critical for assessing team dynamics and strategies, did not impact Uganda's prestigious position in the Cecafa Zone or its global ranking. Argentina continues to lead the global rankings with a commanding 1,858 points, showcasing the country's football excellence. On the African front, Morocco, despite a slight drop, remains the highest-ranked team on the continent, now standing at 13th with 1,661.42 points. In the Cecafa Zone, following Uganda closely is Kenya, which has seen a remarkable rise in the FIFA rankings. Climbing four spots to secure the 107th position globally, Kenya now has 1,191.24 points. This ascent is attributed to the Harambee Starlets' impressive performance in the Four-Nation tournament in Malawi, where they clinched victories against Malawi and Zimbabwe. Tanzania and Sudan are also key players in the Cecafa Zone, holding their ground in the FIFA rankings at 119th and 127th places, respectively. These rankings reflect the competitive spirit and the evolving football landscape in the East and Central African region. The Cecafa Zone, a vibrant football community, comprises 12 member countries: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Djibouti, Somalia, Eritrea, and the Caf Associate member Zanzibar. This region is known for its passionate embrace of football, fostering talent that competes on both continental and global stages. As the football community digests these rankings, the focus remains on how teams from the Cecafa Zone will leverage this benchmark to enhance their performance in upcoming international engagements. The rankings not only reflect the current state of football prowess in the region but also set the stage for future aspirations and achievements in the beautiful game . More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

World Bank Approves $208 Million Grant for Zambia's Drought Relief Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 3, 2024 ​ The World Bank has approved a $208 million grant for Zambia to address the social and economic impact of the severe drought affecting the southern African nation. The finance ministry announced this development on Tuesday. Southern Africa is currently experiencing its worst drought in years, a situation exacerbated by the naturally occurring El Niño phenomenon and increased average temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions. The drought has severely impacted food production and the livelihoods of millions of people in Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, leading all three countries to declare a state of disaster. The World Bank's grant aims to assist Zambia in mitigating the drought's effects by providing additional temporary cash payments to affected households. According to the finance ministry, the support will reach over 1.6 million households across 84 drought-impacted districts over a 12-month period. In addition to direct financial assistance, the World Bank funding will bolster existing social protection programs, enhancing Zambia's ability to respond effectively to the crisis. This funding follows the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) decision last month to increase its financial support for Zambia from $1.3 billion to $1.7 billion to help the nation manage the drought's impact. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

EU Commits €1 Billion Loan to Egypt to Bolster Economy Amidst Regional Challenges Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 13, 2024 ​ Cairo, Egypt – The European Union announced on Friday a significant financial commitment of over $1 billion to Egypt, aiming to provide short-term economic relief. This loan is part of a broader financial package valued at €5 billion, designed to support Egypt through various regional and international challenges. EU's Financial Support Strategy for Egypt The €1 billion loan is the initial segment of a larger plan set to unfold until 2027. The EU plans to extend an additional €4 billion between 2024 and 2027, underlining a robust partnership aimed at economic stability and growth in Egypt. Context and Implications of the Financial Aid This financial aid comes at a crucial time for Egypt, as the country navigates through the economic repercussions of multiple crises. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, Houthi incursions in the Red Sea, and the global economic disturbances following the war in Ukraine have significantly impacted Egypt’s fiscal stability. Conditions and Expectations The EU's financial support is contingent upon Egypt’s continued progress toward enhancing democratic governance and upholding human rights standards. The European Union emphasizes , " The need for Egypt to take concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms, including a multi-party parliamentary system, and the rule of law," as well as ensuring human rights are protected. Broader Financial Engagements In addition to the EU’s commitment, Egypt secured an expanded support programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last month, amounting to $8 billion. This is alongside another €8 billion deal with the EU, introduced in March, which aims to foster cooperation and mitigate migration issues from North Africa . More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Yaba Buluku Boyz Release Debut Album "Donsa" Featuring Pan-African Collaborations Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Apr 28, 2024 Mozambique's dynamic music trio, Yaba Buluku Boyz, This trio has officially launched their first studio album titled "Donsa." Available on all major digital streaming platforms, this 15-track debut album showcases the diverse musical heritage of Mozambique and highlights the unity of African music. Fans can stream and download "Donsa" here Album Details and Collaborations Produced by the renowned DJ Tárico and released under Geobek Records, "Donsa" features an impressive lineup of songs including hits like ‘Billions’, ‘Sontwene’, ‘Tsunami’, and ‘Away’. The album not only marks the group's significant return in 2023 but also includes collaborations with notable African artists such as Jux from Tanzania, Harmonize also from Tanzania, and Nigeria's Iyanya. About Yaba Buluku Boyz Composed of DJ Tárico, Nelson Tivane, and Preck, the Yaba Buluku Boyz have been instrumental in putting Mozambican music on the global map. With a unique sound that blends traditional Mozambican rhythms with modern beats, they continue to foster connections across African communities, celebrating the continent's rich musical landscape. Since their formation in 2021, the trio has worked with African music giants like Burna Boy, Falz, Yemi Alade, Crayon, and Jah Prayzah. Their ability to seamlessly integrate various African music styles has earned them nominations at prestigious awards such as AFRIMA and has seen them perform at major events and festivals worldwide. A Celebration of African Unity Through Music "Donsa" is more than just an album; it's a celebration of African unity and cultural exchange. Geobek Records expresses immense pride in introducing this groundbreaking project from its flagship artists, stating, "The celebration of African unity is here with 'Donsa.'" For the latest updates on Yaba Buluku Boyz and their tour dates, follow them on social media and their official website. Fans and new listeners alike are invited to experience the rhythm and spirit of Mozambique through the vibrant tracks of "Donsa." More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

AfCFTA's Struggle: Africa's Global Trade Share Remains at 3% reports say Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 4, 2024 ​ A view of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) headquarters, the epicenter for strategizing Africa's trade elevation Africa's global trade share remains under 3%, largely influenced by merchandise trade in 2023, according to a recent Economic Commission for Africa report. Despite efforts towards regional integration, African countries still predominantly trade with non-African nations. The report highlights a lag in meeting macroeconomic convergence criteria and notes minimal progress in intra-African trade since the launch of the African Continental Free Trade Area in 2021, with intra-African trade decreasing slightly from 2021 to 2022. Infrastructure developments in roads and ICT have advanced, but rail and energy sectors face challenges, primarily due to funding shortages. ECA's Regional Integration and Trade Division Director, Stephen Karingi, points out that governance issues, poverty, and unemployment remain significant hurdles. He emphasizes that the success of the free trade area depends on effective implementation to harness the benefits of market and trade integration across Africa. Addressing the infrastructure funding gap, estimated between $130bn and $170bn annually, experts suggest innovative financing methods like blended finance, sustainability-focused bonds, and debt-for-nature swaps to support Africa's trade and integration efforts. You can also read our Xtrafrica article about the goals of African Continental Free Trade Area More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

UN Peacekeepers Successfully Rescue Five Civilians in Eastern DR Congo Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 17, 2024 ​ UN's peacekeeping forces in addressing security challenges in conflict-prone areas. In a significant intervention in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), United Nations peacekeepers have successfully facilitated the release of five civilians who had been abducted by an armed group. This rescue underscores the vital role of the UN's peacekeeping forces in addressing security challenges in conflict-prone areas. On a recent mission near Djugu in the Ituri province, peacekeepers from the UN mission known as MONUSCO acted swiftly to rescue the abducted individuals, including a woman and two minors. The operation highlighted the ongoing security issues in the region, where armed groups frequently disrupt civilian life. Following their release, the rescued civilians received immediate shelter and medical care provided by MONUSCO. The peacekeeping team then safely transported them back to their homes, ensuring their reintegration with family and community. Alongside the rescue, MONUSCO's presence in Ituri extends to other critical areas. In response to an attack by the Codeco armed group at a local mining site northeast of Bunia, which tragically resulted in four civilian deaths, peacekeepers have been deployed to safeguard vulnerable communities and monitor ongoing threats. The situation remains tense in the neighboring North Kivu province, where conflicts between the M23 armed group and Congolese armed forces have intensified. MONUSCO has established a presence in strategic areas, including near the town of Sake, to support the Congolese army in stabilizing the situation. Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, is currently visiting the DRC at the government's invitation. His itinerary includes meetings with internally displaced persons, human rights defenders, and senior officials, including President Felix Tshisekedi, to discuss human rights issues and strengthen collaborations. The ongoing efforts of UN peacekeepers in the DRC are crucial in mitigating the impact of armed conflicts and aiding affected civilians. The international community continues to watch closely as MONUSCO and other entities strive to bring lasting peace and security to the region. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Russian military personnel have recently entered an airbase in Niger that hostsed U.S. troops. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 3, 2024 ​ Russian military personnel have entered an air base in Niger Russian military personnel have entered an airbase in Niger that hosts some U.S. troops, according to U.S. officials. The move comes after Niger’s junta ordered the expulsion of American forces. Although Russian and U.S. troops are not directly mingling, they are in close proximity at Airbase 101 near Niamey, Niger’s capital. This development occurs amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and Russia over the conflict in Ukraine. The fate of U.S. installations in Niger remains uncertain following the withdrawal. Meanwhile, Russia seeks to strengthen relations with African nations, positioning itself as a friendly country without colonial baggage. Mali, a close Russian ally, hosts the Wagner Group mercenary force. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024