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Liquorose shares her childhood experiences of hawking food and reselling Okirika, reflecting on growth, habits, and future investment plans. Liquorose Reveals Childhood Hustles and Early Trading Experience Liquorose shares her childhood experiences of hawking food and reselling Okirika, reflecting on growth, habits, and future investment plans. Published: November 29, 2025 at 1:01:55 PM Modified: November 30, 2025 at 8:03:35 AM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Former Big Brother Naija housemate and Nigerian dancer Roseline Omokhoa Afije, widely known as Liquorose, has shared new insights into her early life, revealing that she once engaged in petty trading, including hawking food in the market, despite coming from what she described as an “average but comfortable” home. Speaking in a recent podcast interview with media personality VJ Adams, Liquorose said her interest in business developed at a young age, even though her mother owned a movie cassette rental shop where her older siblings often stopped her from assisting. Driven by curiosity and a desire to earn independently, she ventured into trading on her own. “I hawked food—cooked rice—in the market. After school, I would prepare the food, arrange it and carry it on my head to sell. We were not a poor family; I just really loved doing business,” she recounted. She added that she also bought Okirika clothing from Yaba market to resell, in addition to selling toys. Her family eventually discovered her activities and reprimanded her. She was about eight or nine years old at the time. Liquorose also spoke about her evolving interests, noting that if she were to make major investments in 2025, she would consider the Airbnb sector or content creation, aligning with her expanding creative pursuits. Addressing personal habits she has been working to improve, the dancer admitted that she often ignores calls and tends to avoid confronting issues even when they affect her deeply. “I can endure things I shouldn’t, just to make someone else happy. Then I go back to my room and cry about it,” she said, adding that turning 30 motivated her to be more assertive. On how she manages emotional lows, she explained that crying helps her relax and is a genuine part of her emotional expression. Liquorose further disclosed that she previously struggled with anger issues but worked on them before entering Big Brother Naija, stating that a lack of self-control could have cost her more during the show. Tags Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Musics Musics ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading Entertainment Davido Reacts to 2026 Grammy Loss, Thanks Wife Chioma Singer says Chioma’s words helped him remain gracious after losing Best African Music award . Entertainment Davido’s Grammy Loss Sparks Reaction From Cubana Chief Priest Socialite claims industry pressure followed singer’s loss to Tyla at 2026 Grammys . Entertainment Femi Kuti Reacts to Fela’s Posthumous Grammy Honour Afrobeat musician says family was surprised by Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award . Entertainment Davido Misses Out on Grammy as Tyla Wins African Category Nigerian singer nominated for Best African Music Performance loses award to South Africa’s Tyla .

Discover how to explore Kinshasa Botanical Garden like a local — climate art, prayer circles, puddles, and wild beauty in the city’s green heart. How to Tour Kinshasa Botanical Garden like a Local Discover how to explore Kinshasa Botanical Garden like a local — climate art, prayer circles, puddles, and wild beauty in the city’s green heart. Published: November 5, 2025 at 1:56:29 PM Modified: November 7, 2025 at 5:19:56 PM Written By | Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga The Jardin Botanique de Kinshasa isn’t just a patch of green it’s a cinematic set where Congolese history, climate activism and sweaty prayer sessions collide. Established during the colonial era, its once-labeled trees and scientific mission have faded into a wilder, more lived-in space . Climate Art in the Mud Peaceful garden path surrounded by lush plants and open green space at Kinshasa Botanical Garden. In April 2025 , the garden hosted The Herds , a poetic performance where life-sized cardboard animals were guided through flooded clearings to highlight the climate crisis. As it was reported, the marionettes symbolized animals forced to flee their homes as rising temperatures reshape habitats a haunting message made more poignant in the Congo Basin, the world’s second-largest rainforest . After heavy Kinshasa rains, parts of the garden were literally submerged ,creating mirror-like puddles that photographers adored). Entry: CDF 2 500 (≈ US $1.14)🍹 Snacks/Drinks: CDF 3 000–6 000 (≈ US $1.37–2.74) from local vendors . Pro tip: Go on weekday mornings after a rain shower the light is gorgeous, the mud glistens, and the crowds are still nursing their Primus hangovers. The Prayer Park Once inside, follow the dappled paths beneath towering eucalypts and frangipani . You’ll share the shade with couples doing engagement shoots, kids hustling as guides, and prayer groups raising the volume on divine connection . Captured at the Jardin Botanique de Kinshasa , this joyful moment shows members of Ecodim de la Louange Lemba 1 celebrating a heartfelt exchange of vows a scene filled with laughter, music, and faith. As their caption quotes from Psalms 133:1 , “How good and pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity,” the photo radiates exactly that unity, happiness, and the warmth of community under Kinshasa’s sunlit palms. By mid-2025, over 20 prayer groups were holding sessions in the garden’s clearings , turning what was once a scientific sanctuary into a kind of open-air chapel. Long-time visitors lament that most plant labels have vanished, and the focus has shifted from botany to leisure and faith . Still, it’s a rare breather from Kinshasa’s honking chaos. Arrive early, pack mosquito repellent, and stay curious you might catch leftover cardboard elephants drying in the sun, or teens using puddles as selfie mirrors. That striking hanging pod in photo belongs to the Sausage Tree ( Kigelia africana ) one of the quirkiest sights you’ll find in the Kinshasa Botanical Garden . Locals jokingly call it “arbre à saucisses” for obvious reasons: its heavy, sausage-shaped fruit can weigh up to 10 kg and dangle dramatically from long rope-like stems. Under its broad canopy, you’ll often see photographers or kids posing in awe of its oddity. Though the fruit isn’t edible raw, it’s used across Africa in traditional medicine and even in brewing herbal skin tonics. In the garden, the sausage tree’s bright scarlet flowers attract bats at dusk, adding a touch of nocturnal theatre to Kinshasa’s green heart. Flanked by tall Euphorbia candelabrum (often mistaken for cacti), the path stretches through a corridor of tropical calm palms, manicured lawns, and bursts of color from flowering shrubs This serene walkway in the Kinshasa Botanical Garden is where the city seems to exhale. The benches, though modest, invite you to slow down and take in the rhythm of Kinshasa’s green lungs. In the mornings, joggers and school groups drift past; by afternoon, couples claim the shady corners. It’s the kind of spot where you hear birds gossip louder than people a rare, peaceful pause in the heart of Congo’s capital. Enjoying a calm day at the Kinshasa Botanical Garden, taking photos among the tall trees and bright flowers a perfect spot to capture nature and city peace in one frame. After the Garden: Beer & River Breeze After your stroll, grab a cold Primus beer at a nearby kiosk and wander down to the Congo River , just a short walk away. Between the breeze, the river glint, and the chorus of city sounds, you’ll see why Kinois describe this garden as a pocket of wild magic in the heart of the capital. Kinshasa’s Botanical Garden is messy, magical, and unapologetically alive . It’s not the manicured oasis you might expect it’s muddy paths, spontaneous art, and birdsong spliced with gospel echoes. Go with an open mind and a sense of humour, and you’ll get it: this is Kinshasa in miniature chaotic, creative, and always evolving . Tags DR Congo Museums DR Congo Museums Travel Africa Travel Africa DR.Congo Landmarks DR.Congo Landmarks Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism DR Congo National Park DR Congo National Park travel abroad travel abroad Travel Blog Travel Blog Visit Congo Visit Congo Travel Blog Travel Blog DR.Congo DR.Congo ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading Food and Travel 10 Best Shopping Malls in Kinshasa 2026 Your 2025 guide to Kinshasa’s top malls for shopping, dining, errands and pure AC-powered bliss. . Travel Guide Top 10 Gyms, Trails and Wellness Spots in Kinshasa A fast, witty guide to the best gyms, running trails and wellness spots keeping Kinshasa fit in 2025. . Travel Guide Top 10 Family Friendly Spots in Kinshasa Kinshasa’s best parks, lakes, sanctuaries and fun zones for an easy, kid approved day out in 2025. . Travel Guide 6 ways to navigate public transport in Kinshasa Fares, routes, hacks, and how not to get played on your way across Kin. .

Published: September 29, 2023 at 12:51:20 AM Modified: December 3, 2023 at 3:21:23 PM Burkina Faso's new military leader Ibrahim Traoré. REUTERS - VINCENT BADO (XtrAfrica) Burkina Faso’s ruling military junta said on Thursday that it had thwarted a coup attempt by some army officers and arrested four of them, while two others were still on the run. The junta, led by Captain Ibrahim Traore, said in a statement that the intelligence and security services had detected and neutralized a “proven coup attempt” on Wednesday. It did not provide any details on the motives or the targets of the plotters. The public prosecutor’s office at the military court in Ouagadougou, the capital city, said in a separate statement that four army officers had been arrested and two others were being actively sought in connection with the coup attempt. Burkina Faso has been gripped by political turmoil and insecurity since 2014, when a popular uprising toppled longtime president Blaise Compaore, who had ruled the West African nation for 27 years. Traore seized power in a coup on September 30 last year, after interim president Michel Kafando and prime minister Isaac Zida were detained by members of the presidential guard loyal to Compaore. The coup was widely condemned by the international community and faced resistance from civil society and other army factions. Traore later released Kafando and Zida and agreed to restore the transitional government, which was tasked with organizing elections. However, he remained in charge of the junta, which he said was necessary to ensure security and stability in the country. Traore has also clashed with France, the former colonial power, over its role in the region. He accused France of interfering in Burkina Faso’s internal affairs and supporting armed groups that have been wreaking havoc in the Sahel region south of the Sahara Desert. Earlier this month, Burkina Faso’s military leaders signed a mutual defense pact with the juntas in Mali and Niger, two neighboring countries that have also experienced coups and violence in recent years. The pact aims to coordinate efforts to combat terrorism and restore peace and democracy in the tri-border region. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: May 13, 2024 at 12:06:07 PM Modified: May 14, 2024 at 8:02:58 AM President William Ruto of Kenya and his counterpart Felix Tshisekedi of Congo In a significant diplomatic development, relations between Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are on the mend following a high-level meeting in Kinshasa. President William Ruto of Kenya sent Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi with a special message to DRC President Felix Tshisekedi, aiming to resolve a year-long standoff exacerbated by the detention of two Kenya Airways staff. The tensions, which led Kenya Airways to suspend its flights to the DRC, began to ease after the airline staff were released and flights resumed. The Thursday meeting, which included key officials from both nations, concluded with a series of agreements expected to bolster trade and cooperation. Mudavadi, who also serves as Kenya’s Foreign Affairs minister , praised President Tshisekedi's role in amicably settling the dispute and expressed optimism for strengthened bilateral relations. This thawing of relations marks a hopeful chapter in Nairobi and Kinshasa's partnership, enhancing connectivity and economic ties between the two capitals. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

A young Congolese girl carrying mattress after families displaced by Rwanda-M23 fueled wars in East DRC Published: June 30, 2024 at 8:39:52 PM Modified: July 9, 2024 at 8:27:18 PM Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have captured Kanyabayonga, a strategic town in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), causing widespread displacement. The town, crucial for accessing major commercial centers in North Kivu province, now shelters over 60,000 residents and thousands of recent refugees fleeing rebel advances. Local officials confirmed the takeover, describing a desperate situation for those trapped. "They no longer have anywhere to go; it is total desolation," said an anonymous source. The M23 urged residents to stay during a town meeting, promising peace despite ongoing conflict. Fighting between Congolese forces and rebels has intensified, displacing people from nearby areas like Miriki and Kirumba. A youth leader from Kayna reported a night of relentless gunfire, while a civil society leader in Kirumba spoke of panic and uncertainty. The UN Joint Human Rights Office reported increasing civilian displacement and suspended humanitarian aid due to security concerns, leaving the displaced population in dire need. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: June 3, 2024 at 12:57:01 PM Modified: June 3, 2024 at 1:02:45 PM Russia is reportedly seeking to acquire uranium assets in Niger currently held by the French state-controlled company, Orano SA. Sources familiar with the situation indicate that Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear company, has been in discussions with Niger’s military-led authorities regarding the acquisition of these assets. A western diplomat based in the region suggested that the talks likely involved mining permits. According to the World Nuclear Association, Niger contributed about 4% of global uranium mine production in 2022. France has historically relied on Niger for up to 15% of its uranium requirements to fuel nuclear reactors, which contribute to 65% of the country's electricity production, according to a report by Le Monde. Additionally, the European Union depended on Niger for about a quarter of its uranium supplies in 2022, as reported by the Euratom Supply Agency. Since a coup last July ousted Niger's Western-allied leader, the country has strengthened security ties with Russia, joining other African nations under military rule. This geopolitical shift has provided Moscow with an opportunity to revive its Soviet-era presence in Africa and pursue access to mining interests. Russia's aim is to leverage widespread resentment of France's influence in its former colonies. The exact extent of the assets Rosatom is seeking in Niger remains unclear, with discussions still in early stages. Orano has stated that it is unaware of any discussions between Niger and Russian entities, emphasizing that it has maintained communication with Niger's new leadership since July. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

#EXPLAINED: The DRC returns to the UN Security Council to push for accountability, enforce resolutions, and end Rwanda’s illegal occupation. DRC Vows to Enforce UN Law, Challenges Rwanda’s Occupation #EXPLAINED: The DRC returns to the UN Security Council to push for accountability, enforce resolutions, and end Rwanda’s illegal occupation. Published: January 4, 2026 at 6:59:43 PM Modified: January 7, 2026 at 7:12:41 PM Written By | Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner says the DRC will push for real enforcement of international law and an end to the “credibility gap” between resolutions and reality, starting with Rwanda’s illegal occupation. After a 30-year absence, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has officially reclaimed its seat as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (2026–2027). This return comes at a pivotal moment, as eastern Congo faces ongoing military aggression and regional destabilization. Speaking on TV5MONDE, Congolese Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner laid out Kinshasa’s vision for this mandate, a bold call for credible, action-oriented multilateralism that lives up to the founding principles of the United Nations Charter. The crisis in the DRC is not just a national issue, it’s a crisis for multilateralism itself, marked by blatant violations of international law and humanitarian law.” From Words to Action: Wagner’s Central Message Minister Wagner made it clear: UN decisions must move beyond rhetoric. Referring to UN Resolution 2760 (2023) and Resolution 2773 (2025), both of which explicitly name Rwanda as a destabilizing actor and condemn the illegal occupation of Congolese territory, she denounced the gap between Security Council declarations and real-world enforcement. We now have, in the DRC case, a situation where the Council takes firm decisions, yet fails to enforce them. That is the credibility gap we want to address.” Wagner emphasized that Congo’s agenda will not only focus on its own security but will aim to strengthen multilateralism for other conflicts where UN resolutions remain unimplemented. It’s time to give weight and consequences to Security Council decisions. We cannot let international law become optional.” Congo’s Priorities on the Council As a member of the Security Council, the DRC will push for: Accountability for violations of international law, especially illegal foreign interventions and war crimes. Concrete enforcement of Security Council resolutions, including sanctions and other binding actions. A stronger multilateral system, where justice, not geopolitics, drives the Council’s decisions. Peace and stability in the Great Lakes region, with a clear stance on sovereignty and non-interference. A Symbolic Return, A Strategic Mandate The return of Congo to the UN Security Council is not symbolic; it is strategic. Thirty years after its last mandate, the DRC returns not as a passive member, but as a country demanding respect for international law, protection of civilian lives, and justice for the aggression it continues to face. This seat is not a reward, it’s a responsibility. The Security Council must act when peace is threatened, not just speak. Tags Thérèse Kayikwamba Thérèse Kayikwamba Must Read Must Read DR.Congo DR.Congo ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading Justice & Crime Rwanda Admits M23 Collaboration: A Scandal of State‑Sponsored Rebel EXPOSED: Rwanda’s Secret Deal With M23 Rebels, and the War Crimes Trail in Eastern Congo . Washington Peace Accord DRC Vows to Enforce UN Law, Challenges Rwanda’s Occupation FM Wagner says Congo will fight the UN’s credibility gap on Rwanda and restore multilateral justice . Business & Investment DRC Mines Ministry and AFA Partner to Mobilise Diaspora Investment DR Congo Mines Ministry Partners With Africans for Africa Initiative to Mobilise Diaspora Investment . Washington Peace Accord U.S. Must Act to Stop Rwanda’s Ongoing War in Eastern Congo Washington must hold Rwanda accountable and enforce peace after the 2025 accord. .

Patrick Muyaya details Congo’s military, diplomatic, judicial & economic fight against Rwanda-backed rebels, vowing justice and no impunity. Patrick Muyaya, DRC Gov's spokesperson Muyaya Outlines Congo’s Four Fronts Against Rwanda’s Aggression Patrick Muyaya details Congo’s military, diplomatic, judicial & economic fight against Rwanda-backed rebels, vowing justice and no impunity. Published: October 13, 2025 at 5:05:31 AM Modified: October 13, 2025 at 5:06:49 AM Written By | Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Kinshasa, Oct. 2025 — As instability in the Great Lakes region deepens and Rwandan-backed rebels escalate attacks in North Kivu, Congo’s Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson, Patrick Muyaya, has delivered one of his most strategic and rallying messages yet. He outlined a comprehensive national response, military, diplomatic, judicial, economic, and media, to defend the Democratic Republic of Congo against aggression and plunder. 1. Military Front – “Our soldiers respond whenever necessary.” Muyaya reaffirmed that the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) remain alert and resolute. “In case of an attack, whenever necessary, our soldiers respond. We know the intentions of our enemies.” This statement comes amid renewed M23 offensives near Rutshuru and Masisi, where Rwandan-backed units continue to target Congolese civilians. FARDC operations, supported by the Wazalendo and regional coordination forces, are holding the line against foreign-sponsored destabilization. 2. Diplomatic Front – Washington and Doha Muyaya revealed that Kinshasa is engaging diplomatically in both Washington and Doha to strengthen mediation efforts and ensure international awareness of Rwanda’s involvement. While President Félix Tshisekedi extends a hand for peace , Muyaya stressed that Congo will never accept a settlement that rewards aggression or territorial occupation. “We have discussions in Washington and Doha,” he said, highlighting that Congo is not isolated but backed by an expanding network of partners seeking justice and stability in the region. 3. Judicial Front – “There will be no impunity.” Muyaya underscored Congo’s determination to document war crimes and human rights violations committed in the occupied areas of North Kivu and Ituri. “We are documenting everything happening in the occupied parts of the country. There will be no impunity!” His message echoes President Tshisekedi’s position at the UN General Assembly — that justice, not silence, will end the 30-year cycle of violence. Congo plans to work with international courts and regional partners to ensure that warlords and their foreign backers are held accountable. 4. Economic Front – Ending the Plunder At the heart of the war, Muyaya reminded the nation, lies the illegal exploitation of Congo’s natural wealth, cobalt, gold, and coltan. “The motive for the war is the plundering and appropriation of our resources. We are working to put an end to it.” By reinforcing mining transparency, tightening subcontracting laws, and restoring control over export routes, the Tshisekedi administration is turning Congo’s wealth into a weapon of sovereignty, not dependence. 5. Media Front – “#BendeleEkweyaTe, #CongolaisTelema” On the communication front, Muyaya emphasized the importance of national unity and awareness. “This is not Tshisekedi’s war, nor Prime Minister Suminwa’s war; it is a war waged against all Congolese.” The ongoing #BendeleEkweyaTe (“The flag will neverCongolaisTelema (“Congolese, stand up”) campaigns have reignited patriotism, reminding citizens that Congo’s fight is for its sovereignty, not politics. Building in the Midst of War” Muyaya lamented that the resources now used for defense could have been invested in roads, hospitals, and schools. Yet he reframed it as a call to action: defending Congo today is protecting tomorrow’s development.“All Congolese must mobilize behind the Supreme Command to end this once and for all.” Patrick Muyaya’s address is more than a government statement; it is a declaration of Congo’s strategic endurance. While Rwanda continues its proxy war through M23, Kinshasa is fighting on every front: military, diplomatic, judicial, and moral. Tags Patrick Muyaya Patrick Muyaya DRC Politics DRC Politics DR.Congo DR.Congo ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading War in Eastern DRC FARDC to Issue Official Statement After Kisangani Drone Shootdown Army downs four 'kamikaze' drones near Kisangani airport; Rwanda-backed M23 rebels suspected . Justice & Crime Karisimbi youth council demands protection after Kasika killing Council condemns the shooting of a 54-year-old woman in Goma and urges safety for residents . DRC Peace Effort Rubaya returnees face new barrier: healthcare access in Masisi In North Kivu’s return phase, user fees and medicine shortages keep families away from clinics . Government Announcements DRC: Kinshasa Launches Uvira Recovery Plan Kinshasa unveils its recovery plan for Uvira following the partial withdrawal of M23/RDF forces .

Apply for the Operational Manager – Clinics job at City of Johannesburg Region F. Permanent role for experienced health professionals. Closing 07 July 2025. Apply for the Operational Manager – Clinics job at City of Johannesburg Region F. Permanent role for experienced health professionals. Closing 07 July 2025. Apply for the Operational Manager – Clinics job at City of Johannesburg Region F. Permanent role for experienced health professionals. Closing 07 July 2025. Published: June 28, 2025 at 6:13:27 AM Modified: June 30, 2025 at 4:42:48 PM Employer: City of Johannesburg Location: Region F, Johannesburg, South Africa Contract: Permanent Closing Date: Monday, 07 July 2025 💡 About This Role The City of Johannesburg Health Department is seeking an experienced Operational Manager for Clinics to lead, manage, and coordinate comprehensive primary health care services using the District Health Systems Model. 🎓 Minimum Requirements ✔️ Grade 12 plus Diploma or B Degree in General Nursing, Midwifery, and Community Sciences (NQF level 7) ✔️ Qualification in Clinical Nursing Science, Health Assessment, Treatment, and Care ✔️ Qualification in Health Service Management ✔️ Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a primary health care setting, including staff supervision ✔️ Valid Driver’s License 🛠️ Key Responsibilities Plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate integrated Primary Health Care services Compile and report within district health plans Coordinate administrative and operational processes in clinics Supervise the delivery of comprehensive health care services Facilitate health education and training for communities and staff Maintain a strong community and intersectoral collaboration 🌟 Skills & Competencies Strong project management and leadership skills Computer literacy Excellent communication and networking abilities Problem-solving and negotiation skills Ability to work under pressure and prioritise effectively Professionalism, integrity, and adherence to Batho Pele principles 🙌 Employment Equity The City of Johannesburg is an equal opportunity employer. Preference will be given to candidates from previously disadvantaged groups and people with disabilities, in line with Employment Equity Plans. 📧 How to Apply ✔️ Apply online only via this link: Apply Here ✔️ For enquiries, contact Murendeni Nelufule at 011 407 6680 🗓️ Deadline: Monday, 07 July 2025If you do not hear back within six weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. ✅ Why This Job Matters This role is vital in strengthening primary health care delivery in Johannesburg, ensuring quality services that improve community health outcomes and align with national development goals. 🔗 Source: City of Johannesburg Official Vacancy Circular Visit CoJ Careers Page Tags Gov Services Gov Services Vacancies in South Africa Vacancies in South Africa opportunity opportunity ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading How to Register for DDD Webinars Online in South Africa Learn how to register for DDD webinars online in South Africa. Step-by-step e-service guide . Explore new Group Finance vacancies at the City of Johannesburg. Apply online . How to Apply Online for Building Plans and Land Use in Cape Town Learn how to register and apply for building plans on Cape Town's e-Service . New Job Opportunity: Operational Manager – Clinics (Health Department, Johannesburg) .

Published: March 8, 2024 at 6:37:08 AM Modified: March 12, 2024 at 3:04:41 PM women attending women's daay Celebration in East Africa In a world where strides toward gender equality are increasingly recognized and supported, a concerning minority still harbors misogynistic views that threaten the progress made in empowering women and girls. Despite national surveys revealing overwhelming majorities in favor of gender equality across the globe, from over 90% support in nations like Canada, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, to around 55% in countries such as Kenya, Russia, and South Korea, this minority remains a significant barrier. This group, often viewing women as lesser than men, not only denies women autonomy over their lives and bodies but also seeks to limit their political, social, and economic freedoms. The behavior of such individuals ranges from ridicule and intimidation to outright physical abuse, undermining the fundamental principles of gender equality enshrined in pivotal international documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Misogynists' dismissal of gender equality laws and policies, which form a core part of many regional treaties and national frameworks, poses a challenge to achieving a world where women have equal rights and opportunities. Addressing this issue requires not only legal and policy reforms but also a cultural shift to dismantle deeply ingrained misogynistic attitudes. The fight for gender equality traces its roots back to centuries of women's oppression under male-dominated structures through laws, physical force, and societal norms. Historically, women were largely confined to roles within the household, reliant on fathers and husbands for decisions, and often married off at young ages with limited personal freedom. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Deputy President Paul Mashatile spent R346,000 per night in London using taxpayer funds. Here's a breakdown of his luxury travel costs. President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile talk during the ANC’s NEC meeting at Birchwood Hotel, Boksburg, on June 6, 2024. .📷: Phill Magakoe / AFP via Getty Images Deputy President Paul Mashatile spent R346,000 per night in London using taxpayer funds. Here's a breakdown of his luxury travel costs. Published: June 8, 2025 at 4:38:59 PM Modified: June 8, 2025 at 4:38:59 PM South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile is under scrutiny after it was revealed that he spent over R2 million on a six-night stay in London, charging taxpayers a staggering R346,000 per night for accommodation. The details emerged from a written reply to parliamentary questions by MP Lerato Ngobeni, who requested a full breakdown of Mashatile’s official trips and associated costs since his assumption of office on 3 July 2024. Ngobeni demanded transparency on each trip's purpose, destination, and expenses, covering flights, hotels, meals, and other extras. The Deputy President’s office responded with two reports, one submitted in February 2025 and another in May 2025. Four International Trips Since July 2024 According to the records, Mashatile has gone on four official trips since becoming Deputy President: Ireland & UK Working Visit (26 Sept – 4 Oct 2024) Botswana Presidential Inauguration (8 Nov 2024) SADC Summit in Zimbabwe (20 Nov 2024) Japan Working Visit (16 – 19 March 2025) 📊 Cost Breakdown – Ireland, UK & Japan The Ireland & UK trip alone cost R5.475 million, while the Japan trip cost R2.3 million in total. However, what raised eyebrows was the accommodation costs for Mashatile and his wife, Humile Mashatile: Destination Dates Accommodation Cost Cost Per Night Ireland 26–29 September 2024 R147,439 R49,146 United Kingdom 30 Sept–4 October 2024 R2,077,587 R346,265 Japan 16–19 March 2025 R956,057 R239,014 To compare: even top-tier luxury suites at world-famous hotels like Aman Tokyo or London’s Claridge’s rarely exceed R150,000 per night. Yet taxpayers were billed more than double that for Mashatile’s room and board, without any official explanation of the venue, services used, or reasons behind the excessive price tag. No Clarity on Why the Costs Were So High While the figures are public, the Deputy President’s office gave no clarity on why the accommodations were so expensive, where the couple stayed, or whether more affordable options were considered. This silence has added fuel to public frustration over government spending, especially at a time when South Africa is facing economic strain, load shedding, and rising public debt. What’s Next? With increasing calls for transparency and accountability, civil society and opposition parties may push for a deeper audit into VIP travel expenses. The figures raise questions about whether government leaders are truly committed to fiscal responsibility. “R346,000 a night? In a country where millions live below the poverty line, that’s more than just tone-deaf, it’s a slap in the face,” one social media user wrote. Final Thought As South Africans struggle with high living costs, revelations like these put further pressure on public trust in leadership. If Mashatile’s team doesn’t clarify, the court of public opinion will keep asking: Who exactly are our leaders serving? Tags VIP Travel Costs VIP Travel Costs Paul Mashatile News Paul Mashatile News South Africa Social Grants South Africa Social Grants South Africa South Africa U.K U.K ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading Economic Reports Temu “Shipping Confirmed” alerts spark consumer warning in SA Report flags promo-style notifications that can look like real delivery updates to users. . Road Accidents Durban R102 crash raises fresh road-safety concerns Truck–minibus collision near Lotus Park kills at least 11 as officials investigate . Geopolitics Africa Why Melania Trump isn’t screening in South Africa and why it matters A distributor’s late pull highlights how politics, perception and film rollout risks can collide . African Politics Washington concerned about Iran’s role in South Africa’s naval drills Washington’s concern centers on Iran’s role, live-fire optics, .

A football player is seated on a local fishing boat in the sea, holding a football Published: July 8, 2024 at 11:20:20 AM Modified: July 9, 2024 at 8:25:11 PM Two players from top-flight Moroccan soccer team Ittihad Tanger have been reported missing at sea since Saturday. The players were part of a group of five who went cruising off the northern city of Tangier when strong currents and heavy winds swept their small yacht away, said club deputy president Anass Mrabet. The incident occurred as the players were swimming in deep waters, with no buoys to aid them . Mrabet revealed that three players were rescued on Saturday, but the search continues for Salman Harraq and Abdellatif Akhrif. Harraq, 18, was on the cusp of joining the senior team this year, while Akhrif, 24, is already a full squad member. The distressing news has shaken the club and the local community. Ittihad Tanger has been a staple in the Moroccan top flight since 2015, clinching their first and only league title in the 2017-18 season. However, the team has faced challenges, struggling in the lower half of the standings in recent years. The tragedy underscores the unpredictability of the sea and the importance of safety measures. As the search for Harraq and Akhrif continues, the football community remains hopeful for their safe return. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading