Opposition groups in Togo have intensified their calls for mass protests following the approval of constitutional amendments by the parliament, which could potentially extend President Faure Gnassingbe's rule. Gnassingbe has been in power since 2005, following the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who had seized power in a 1967 coup. On Friday, Togolese lawmakers passed reforms to the presidential election process and the governmental structure, triggering concerns both domestically and internationally. Under the new system, the president will no longer be elected through direct public vote but will instead be selected by parliament members. This change, coupled with the introduction of a parliamentary government and reduced presidential terms from five to four years, still allows Gnassingbe to potentially remain in office until 2033 due to the non-retroactive nature of the term limits. The Dynamique pour la Majorité du Peuple (DMP) opposition coalition, along with other civil society groups, has labeled the parliamentary approval a "coup d'etat." They argue that the amendments were passed without adequate public disclosure and debate. The DMP has announced plans for significant protests in the coming days to oppose what they see as an undemocratic move to entrench Gnassingbe’s power. The U.S. State Department's Africa Bureau has expressed deep concerns regarding the lack of transparency and inclusivity in the amendment process. "We urge the government to allow open and informed debate, ensure inclusivity and transparency, and respect the right to peaceful assembly," stated a spokesperson on the social media platform X. The constitutional changes in Togo reflect a broader trend observed in several African countries where leaders have manipulated legal frameworks to extend their tenure. Instances of such legal adjustments have occurred in the Central African Republic, Rwanda, Congo Republic, Ivory Coast, and Guinea. The situation in Togo remains tense as previous demonstrations against Gnassingbe's government have frequently been met with violent police action, a tactic consistent since his father’s rule. The new constitution also establishes a new role, the president of the council of ministers, vested with significant governmental authority, further consolidating power within the executive branch. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 21, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: President Faure Gnassingbe Opposition groups in Togo have intensified their calls for mass protests following the approval of constitutional amendments by the parliament, which could potentially extend President Faure Gnassingbe's rule. Gnassingbe has been in power since 2005, following the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who had seized power in a 1967 coup. On Friday, Togolese lawmakers passed reforms to the presidential election process and the governmental structure, triggering concerns both domestically and internationally. Under the new system, the president will no longer be elected through direct public vote but will instead be selected by parliament members. This change, coupled with the introduction of a parliamentary government and reduced presidential terms from five to four years, still allows Gnassingbe to potentially remain in office until 2033 due to the non-retroactive nature of the term limits. ADVERTISEMENT The Dynamique pour la Majorité du Peuple (DMP) opposition coalition, along with other civil society groups, has labeled the parliamentary approval a "coup d'etat." They argue that the amendments were passed without adequate public disclosure and debate. The DMP has announced plans for significant protests in the coming days to oppose what they see as an undemocratic move to entrench Gnassingbe’s power. The U.S. State Department's Africa Bureau has expressed deep concerns regarding the lack of transparency and inclusivity in the amendment process. "We urge the government to allow open and informed debate, ensure inclusivity and transparency, and respect the right to peaceful assembly," stated a spokesperson on the social media platform X. The constitutional changes in Togo reflect a broader trend observed in several African countries where leaders have manipulated legal frameworks to extend their tenure. Instances of such legal adjustments have occurred in the Central African Republic, Rwanda, Congo Republic, Ivory Coast, and Guinea. ADVERTISEMENT The situation in Togo remains tense as previous demonstrations against Gnassingbe's government have frequently been met with violent police action, a tactic consistent since his father’s rule. The new constitution also establishes a new role, the president of the council of ministers, vested with significant governmental authority, further consolidating power within the executive branch. 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

Juliana Lumumba told RFI she wants a more inclusive, youth-focused Francophonie rooted in African realities ahead of the 2026 OIF election. PARIS — Juliana Amato Lumumba, daughter of Congolese independence icon Patrice Lumumba and candidate for Secretary-General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), has called for a major “refoundation” of the Francophonie, arguing that the institution must become “closer to the people” and less bureaucratic. Speaking in an extensive interview with RFI during her campaign visit to Paris, the former Congolese culture minister presented her vision for what she described as a more inclusive, youth-focused and people-centered Francophonie ahead of the OIF leadership election scheduled for November 2026. “I want a Francophonie of the peoples, closer to the people,” Juliana Lumumba told RFI. “Not only governments, but communities, women, men and young people speaking to each other.” Her candidacy comes at a pivotal moment for the French-speaking world, as African countries now represent the majority of Francophone speakers globally. Lumumba argues that the organisation must evolve beyond what she described as an overly institutional model and reconnect with ordinary citizens, youth and cultural diversity across the Francophone space. A Campaign Built Around Youth, Dialogue and Cultural Diversity During the interview, Lumumba emphasized the importance of youth, digital transformation, education and cultural industries in the future of the Francophonie. She argued that Africa’s demographic reality, where the majority of French speakers are now young Africans, requires a new vision for the organisation. “Sixty-five percent of French speakers are in Africa, and Africa is young,” she said, stressing that the Francophonie must address digital inequality, youth unemployment and education if it wants to remain relevant in the future. Lumumba also defended the idea of a “polycentric” French language, explaining that French should coexist alongside African languages rather than dominate them. “French is not a unicentered language; it is polycentric,” she said, adding that African “sister languages” such as Swahili, Lingala and Kikongo should also be valued as part of cultural identity and development. Continue Reading Full Article FRANCOPHONE Juliana Lumumba Wants a Francophonie “Closer to the People” By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment May 21, 2026 May 21, 2026 7 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: PARIS — Juliana Amato Lumumba, daughter of Congolese independence icon Patrice Lumumba and candidate for Secretary-General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), has called for a major “refoundation” of the Francophonie, arguing that the institution must become “closer to the people” and less bureaucratic. Speaking in an extensive interview with RFI during her campaign visit to Paris, the former Congolese culture minister presented her vision for what she described as a more inclusive, youth-focused and people-centered Francophonie ahead of the OIF leadership election scheduled for November 2026. “I want a Francophonie of the peoples, closer to the people,” Juliana Lumumba told RFI. “Not only governments, but communities, women, men and young people speaking to each other.” Her candidacy comes at a pivotal moment for the French-speaking world, as African countries now represent the majority of Francophone speakers globally. Lumumba argues that the organisation must evolve beyond what she described as an overly institutional model and reconnect with ordinary citizens, youth and cultural diversity across the Francophone space. A Campaign Built Around Youth, Dialogue and Cultural Diversity During the interview, Lumumba emphasized the importance of youth, digital transformation, education and cultural industries in the future of the Francophonie. She argued that Africa’s demographic reality, where the majority of French speakers are now young Africans, requires a new vision for the organisation. “Sixty-five percent of French speakers are in Africa, and Africa is young,” she said, stressing that the Francophonie must address digital inequality, youth unemployment and education if it wants to remain relevant in the future. Lumumba also defended the idea of a “polycentric” French language, explaining that French should coexist alongside African languages rather than dominate them. “French is not a unicentered language; it is polycentric,” she said, adding that African “sister languages” such as Swahili, Lingala and Kikongo should also be valued as part of cultural identity and development. Her campaign platform focuses heavily on: youth empowerment, digital transformation, cultural and creative industries, multilingualism, dialogue between peoples, and conflict mediation within the Francophone world. Patrice Lumumba Legacy and Pan-African Values ADVERTISEMENT A significant part of the interview focused on Juliana Lumumba’s personal history and the legacy of her father, Patrice Lumumba, the Congo’s first prime minister assassinated in 1961. Lumumba recounted how her family was secretly evacuated to Egypt before her father’s assassination, where they were protected under the leadership of Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. She described herself as “the product” of Pan-African solidarity, sovereignty, dignity and justice, values she says continue to shape her political and diplomatic vision today. “I arrive with those values,” she told RFI, linking them directly to the founding ideals of the Francophonie. She also addressed the recent death of Belgian statesman Étienne Davignon, who had faced legal scrutiny over alleged involvement in Patrice Lumumba’s assassination. Juliana Lumumba said her family’s struggle has always been about “truth and memory,” rather than revenge. “Truth liberates,” she said. “This is not only the truth of the Lumumba children, but the truth of an entire country.” Ebola Outbreak: “The DRC Knows How to Fight This Disease” Asked about the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Juliana Lumumba expressed confidence in the country’s ability to contain the epidemic. ADVERTISEMENT She noted that this is the DRC’s 17th Ebola outbreak and highlighted the country’s internationally recognized expertise in epidemic management. “The DRC is among the best experts when it comes to this disease,” she told RFI. Lumumba praised the collaboration between Congolese authorities, the World Health Organization (WHO), and international partners, while also highlighting the work of Professor Jean-Jacques Muyembe and the National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB), which played a key role in Ebola vaccine research. Her comments reinforce the broader message increasingly promoted by Congolese officials: despite insecurity in eastern Congo, the DRC possesses one of Africa’s most experienced epidemic response systems. OIF Election and Rwanda Question Juliana Lumumba will face several candidates in the race for the OIF leadership, including incumbent Secretary-General Louise Mushikiwabo of Rwanda, who is seeking another term. However, Lumumba rejected attempts to frame the election as a geopolitical confrontation between Rwanda and the DRC. “The Francophonie is not a place for confrontation,” she said. “It is a space of dialogue, mediation and values.” Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . ADVERTISEMENT Instead, she argued that the OIF should become more active in peacebuilding, mediation and conflict prevention across the Francophone world. One of her proposals includes creating a “Francophone Academy of Peace” aimed at training young people in conflict prevention and mediation. Seeking Support Across the Francophone World Lumumba confirmed that she has already visited around fifteen countries as part of her campaign, including Canada, Quebec and New Brunswick, where she said her ideas received a “warm welcome.” She also revealed that she met French President Emmanuel Macron during the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya, where she was introduced by President Félix Tshisekedi. While she stopped short of confirming French support for her candidacy, Lumumba acknowledged that she hopes to gain backing from a broad coalition of Francophone nations. According to her interview with RFI, several African leaders have already openly expressed enthusiasm for her campaign, including: President Teodoro Obiang Nguema, President Mahamat Idriss Déby, and President Denis Sassou-Nguesso. As the OIF campaign intensifies ahead of the November 2026 vote, Juliana Lumumba is increasingly positioning herself not only as the candidate of the DRC, but as the advocate for a younger, more African and more people-centered Francophonie. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty Will Democrats support Kagame after the 2026 midterms? Blinken's statements, Biden's Rwanda policy . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution In London, the DRC government spokesperson rejects constitutional politics as a cause of the eastern . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 Four firms will rebuild runways and terminals from Kalemie to Muanda under a Treasury-funded plan . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews Board vote set for December; minister says up to $771 million could follow if approved . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo Juliana Amato Lumumba Juliana Amato Lumumba

In a significant development in East African geopolitics, Somalia has firmly opposed Ethiopia's recent initiative to establish a naval base in the autonomous region of Somaliland, while expressing openness to bilateral negotiations for commercial port access. This stance was articulated by a senior Somali official on Friday, underscoring the delicate balance of regional diplomacy and national sovereignty. Tensions Rise Over Naval Base Proposal Ethiopia, a landlocked country, incited controversy earlier this year by entering into an agreement with Somaliland, offering to acknowledge the region's independence in exchange for a 20-kilometer stretch of coastline. This move in January sparked a diplomatic rift with the Somali government, which views the deal as a violation of its territorial integrity. Since declaring self-rule in 1991, Somaliland has maintained de facto autonomy, though it is not internationally recognized as an independent state. Somalia's Firm Stance on Sovereignty Somalia's rejection of the naval base proposal was reiterated by Ali Omar, the Somali State Minister for Foreign Affairs, during an interview with Reuters. Omar emphasized that, "Any potential agreement on port access must first see the cancellation of Ethiopia's current arrangement with Somaliland. Somalia will never accept a naval base," he declared, adding that Somalia remains ready to discuss commercial port usage under international maritime law conditions. Regional Powers Propose Maritime Treaty In response to the growing discord, Kenya, in collaboration with Djibouti and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), has proposed a new maritime treaty. The suggested framework aims to regulate port access for landlocked nations within the region on commercial terms, potentially easing the tensions sparked by unilateral agreements. Looking Ahead As discussions continue, the focus remains on finding a pathway that respects the interests and sovereignty of all parties involved. Somalia has expressed its willingness to entertain proposals that align with its national interests, which prioritize maintaining its sovereignty, political independence, and territorial unity. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 13, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Somalia has firmly opposed Ethiopia's recent initiative to establish a naval base in the autonomous region of Somaliland In a significant development in East African geopolitics, Somalia has firmly opposed Ethiopia's recent initiative to establish a naval base in the autonomous region of Somaliland, while expressing openness to bilateral negotiations for commercial port access. This stance was articulated by a senior Somali official on Friday, underscoring the delicate balance of regional diplomacy and national sovereignty. Tensions Rise Over Naval Base Proposal Ethiopia, a landlocked country, incited controversy earlier this year by entering into an agreement with Somaliland, offering to acknowledge the region's independence in exchange for a 20-kilometer stretch of coastline. This move in January sparked a diplomatic rift with the Somali government, which views the deal as a violation of its territorial integrity. Since declaring self-rule in 1991, Somaliland has maintained de facto autonomy, though it is not internationally recognized as an independent state. ADVERTISEMENT Somalia's Firm Stance on Sovereignty Somalia's rejection of the naval base proposal was reiterated by Ali Omar, the Somali State Minister for Foreign Affairs, during an interview with Reuters. Omar emphasized that, "Any potential agreement on port access must first see the cancellation of Ethiopia's current arrangement with Somaliland. Somalia will never accept a naval base," he declared, adding that Somalia remains ready to discuss commercial port usage under international maritime law conditions. Regional Powers Propose Maritime Treaty In response to the growing discord, Kenya, in collaboration with Djibouti and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), has proposed a new maritime treaty. The suggested framework aims to regulate port access for landlocked nations within the region on commercial terms, potentially easing the tensions sparked by unilateral agreements. ADVERTISEMENT Looking Ahead As discussions continue, the focus remains on finding a pathway that respects the interests and sovereignty of all parties involved. Somalia has expressed its willingness to entertain proposals that align with its national interests, which prioritize maintaining its sovereignty, political independence, and territorial unity. 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

Nigeria's Senate backs B.Tech degrees at federal polytechnics. See which qualifications are covered, the NUC condition and why the plan is not yet in force. ABUJA, Nigeria — 16 October 2026. Nigeria's Senate reconsidered and passed the Federal Polytechnics Act (Amendment) Bill on Thursday, 15 October, backing a proposed route for federal polytechnics to award honours Bachelor of Technology ( B.Tech .) degrees in science, engineering and technology. The proposal covers specified diploma holders, but it does not mean institutions can immediately enrol students for the new awards. According to Premium Times' account of the Senate sitting , the degree-awarding provision would require accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other relevant regulators. Separate plenary reporting by New Telegraph says the revised bill must proceed to the House of Representatives for concurrence before any presidential assent. Can Nigerian federal polytechnics now award B.Tech degrees? The Senate approved a proposal on 15 October 2026 allowing federal polytechnics to award specified technology-related bachelor's degrees, subject to regulatory accreditation. That is a legislative step, not an immediate launch. Final lawmaking, institutional authorisation and approved programmes still stand between the Senate vote and a student's admission. What the Senate changed on 15 October The Senate returned to provisions of a bill it had already passed on 7 July 2026. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved to withdraw the earlier decision on the affected clauses and send them back to the Committee of the Whole for another review. The chamber then considered the amendments and passed the revised bill at third reading. The Guardian's report of the sitting independently confirms that lawmakers reconsidered the measure before passing it again. The major educational change is a proposed addition to Section 2, creating authority for federal polytechnics to award a Bachelor of Technology with honours in designated science, engineering and technology programmes. According to Premium Times' description of the revised provision, the award could be available to holders of a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND) or postgraduate diploma, subject to the relevant accreditation requirements. Those categories identify qualifications mentioned in the proposed legal framework. They are not a published admissions notice, a conversion certificate or a guarantee that everyone with an ND or HND will receive a bachelor's degree. Who would the B.Tech pathway cover? Continue Reading Full Article EDUCATION Nigeria Polytechnic Degree Bill: Who Qualifies and What Happens Next? By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 16, 2026 Oct 16, 2026 9 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: ABUJA, Nigeria — 16 October 2026. Nigeria's Senate reconsidered and passed the Federal Polytechnics Act (Amendment) Bill on Thursday, 15 October, backing a proposed route for federal polytechnics to award honours Bachelor of Technology ( B.Tech .) degrees in science, engineering and technology. The proposal covers specified diploma holders, but it does not mean institutions can immediately enrol students for the new awards. According to Premium Times' account of the Senate sitting , the degree-awarding provision would require accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other relevant regulators. Separate plenary reporting by New Telegraph says the revised bill must proceed to the House of Representatives for concurrence before any presidential assent. Can Nigerian federal polytechnics now award B.Tech degrees? The Senate approved a proposal on 15 October 2026 allowing federal polytechnics to award specified technology-related bachelor's degrees, subject to regulatory accreditation. That is a legislative step, not an immediate launch. Final lawmaking, institutional authorisation and approved programmes still stand between the Senate vote and a student's admission. What the Senate changed on 15 October The Senate returned to provisions of a bill it had already passed on 7 July 2026. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved to withdraw the earlier decision on the affected clauses and send them back to the Committee of the Whole for another review. The chamber then considered the amendments and passed the revised bill at third reading. The Guardian's report of the sitting independently confirms that lawmakers reconsidered the measure before passing it again. The major educational change is a proposed addition to Section 2, creating authority for federal polytechnics to award a Bachelor of Technology with honours in designated science, engineering and technology programmes. According to Premium Times' description of the revised provision, the award could be available to holders of a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND) or postgraduate diploma, subject to the relevant accreditation requirements. Those categories identify qualifications mentioned in the proposed legal framework. They are not a published admissions notice, a conversion certificate or a guarantee that everyone with an ND or HND will receive a bachelor's degree. ADVERTISEMENT Who would the B.Tech pathway cover? The proposal concerns federal polytechnics . It does not, by itself, establish that every state or private polytechnic will gain the same direct degree-awarding powers. Nor does it identify which particular campuses or courses have completed the necessary approvals. Student or institution What the Senate proposal means ND holder Named among qualification holders who may enter an authorised B.Tech pathway; admission rules and duration still need clarification. HND holder Included in the proposed framework, but an existing HND is not automatically converted into a degree. Postgraduate diploma holder Also mentioned; individual eligibility, credit recognition and programme conditions have not been published. Federal polytechnic Could receive a legal route to award specified B.Tech degrees after the bill becomes law and required approvals are obtained. State or private polytechnic Not automatically covered by a provision expressly described as applying to federal polytechnics. An important distinction is between studying at a polytechnic and receiving a degree from that polytechnic. Some Nigerian polytechnics already participate in university-affiliated degree programmes. The NUC's list of approved affiliations includes arrangements involving polytechnics, but those arrangements do not prove that the institutions independently hold the proposed B.Tech awarding authority. Accreditation remains the condition that students cannot ignore Even after legislation is completed, accreditation will determine whether an institution can offer a particular degree programme. The NUC's Directorate of Accreditation describes its role in checking degree-awarding institutions and academic programmes against standards, resources and quality requirements. That distinction matters because a general statutory power does not identify the laboratories, lecturers, curriculum, facilities or assessments that will be acceptable for a specific engineering or science course. An institution may satisfy requirements for one programme without having approval for another. There was no verified institution-by-institution list of newly authorised B.Tech programmes, application dates, tuition charges or completion timelines in the material available on 16 October. Any advertisement saying that every HND holder can obtain a recognised B.Tech immediately should therefore be checked with the NUC, the institution and the education authorities before money changes hands. Does this end the HND–BSc divide? Not automatically. The bill addresses the types of qualifications that participating federal polytechnics may eventually award; it does not itself replace every public-service recruitment, promotion or salary rule that differentiates diploma and degree holders. Nigeria's long-running debate about the treatment of HND graduates helps explain the interest in the proposal. Premium Times reports that HND holders have encountered differences in recruitment grades and promotion opportunities. Separately, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has previously described academic-progression obstacles for HND holders and promoted a distinct degree top-up route involving foreign universities. The NBTE's 2024 polytechnic schemes-of-service explanation also recorded changes to the recognition of HND holders within polytechnic academic staffing. Such employment reforms operate through their own rules. They should not be confused with the new Senate proposal or treated as evidence that all HND and bachelor's qualifications have become legally identical. ADVERTISEMENT For graduates, the distinction is practical: a new degree route could broaden opportunities for future students, but it would not automatically rewrite qualifications already issued or erase requirements set by employers and professional bodies. What happens to current ND and HND admissions? Students should continue to distinguish the ND and HND system in operation from the proposed B.Tech legislation. No published instruction reviewed for this report says existing ND or HND studies have been cancelled or that current students must switch into a degree programme. That is also separate from the September directive concerning how HND admissions should be recorded. XTRAfrica's earlier report on the NBTE directive involving JAMB and HND admissions explains that central admission processing and NYSC-record concerns are administrative questions, not permission for every polytechnic to confer B.Tech degrees. For ordinary 2026 tertiary admissions, candidates can also consult XTRAfrica's JAMB CAPS admission-status guide for the existing confirmation route. Applicants should not treat a social-media post about the Senate bill as an official offer or substitute for an institution's published requirements. The bill also proposes changes to polytechnic leadership Degrees are not the only issue in the amendments. Premium Times reports that a revision to Section 8 would put the appointment of federal polytechnic rectors in the hands of governing councils and provide for an initial five-year term, with eligibility for a second and final four-year term. Another revision to Section 31 concerns the definition of the minister responsible for education. These are proposed governance provisions , not appointment decisions announced for individual schools. Their final effect depends on the text that completes the legislative process. Students and staff should not assume that a reported rector-tenure change has already taken effect simply because the Senate approved it. What must happen before applications can begin? The revised bill must complete the remaining legislative stages. New Telegraph reports that it is to be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence, with presidential assent to follow if the parliamentary process is completed. The National Assembly's explanation of the ordinary bill process likewise distinguishes third reading in one chamber from final approval of a law. 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 Business Trends Lwazi Bam Named to MTN Nigeria Board From 1 December . | Appointments Dapo Akande Elected ICJ Judge: UK-Nigerian Lawyer's 2026 Win . Biography Dapo Akande Biography: Nigerian-British Lawyer Elected to ICJ . Energy and Power Africa Energy Bank Explained: Funding, Purpose and Projects . Technology and Innovation NCC Device Checker Guide: Check Your Phone Safely . ADVERTISEMENT After any enactment, attention would shift to guidance from the federal education authorities, the NUC, other applicable regulators and the affected institutions. Families considering a new qualification should look for these specific details before paying an application or registration fee: A verifiable final legal instrument and commencement arrangements. An official list of federal polytechnics and specific accredited B.Tech programmes . Published admission conditions for ND, HND or postgraduate diploma holders, including duration and any credit-transfer rules. A named official portal, approved fees and intake dates, issued by the responsible institution or regulator. Clear identification of the body awarding the qualification, especially where a university-affiliation arrangement is involved. Financial assistance may still be available through existing programmes rather than this bill. For example, XTRAfrica's 2026 MTN scholarship guide explains the separate eligibility rules that applied to qualifying public-polytechnic students. A proposed degree does not automatically change a scholarship's conditions. Questions students are asking Is the Federal Polytechnics Act amendment already law? The verified development is the Senate's revised third-reading passage on 15 October 2026. A completed House concurrence, presidential assent and a new implementation notice were not established by the sources reviewed for this article. Will every HND holder receive a B.Tech degree? No automatic conversion is provided in the reported proposal. HND holders are among the qualifications named for a potential pathway, but admissions, credit recognition and programme accreditation remain separate requirements. Can a private polytechnic start awarding the new degree? The Senate provision described in current reporting is about federal polytechnics. Private and state institutions should not claim the same independent authority without an applicable legal and regulatory basis. When will applications open? No verified national application date, fee schedule or approved-campus list accompanied the Senate reports. The next meaningful update will be documentary confirmation of the final law and specific degree approvals, not simply another announcement of parliamentary support. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Business Trends Lwazi Bam Named to MTN Nigeria Board From 1 December MTN Group's chief risk officer joins four other appointees in a November board announcement. . | Appointments Dapo Akande Elected ICJ Judge: UK-Nigerian Lawyer's 2026 Win Oxford professor Dapo Akande wins a nine-year ICJ term as Britain returns to the World Court. . Biography Dapo Akande Biography: Nigerian-British Lawyer Elected to ICJ Dapo Akande’s Nigerian education, Oxford career, international cases and 2026 ICJ election. . 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Bullet has urged TGMA organisers to bring back Shatta Wale, saying his presence increases fan engagement. RuffTown Records founder Bullet has called on organisers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) to reinstate dancehall artist Shatta Wale to the award scheme. Speaking during an interview, Bullet said Shatta Wale’s participation in events consistently brings excitement, competition and increased public interest. “I think they should bring back Shatta Wale. If only they are willing to and would listen to me, they should bring him back,” he said. According to Bullet, the artist’s fanbase plays a major role in creating energy and engagement at entertainment events. “They should bring him back to make it more fun because, after all, he is still a Ghanaian musician, so they should talk things out with him and bring him back,” he stated during an interview on OKAY FM. Bullet added that healthy competition within the music industry helps improve entertainment value and audience participation. “I do not care if anybody disagrees, but I am saying what I also think. We all need competition, and I know when SM is involved in something, no doubt it makes it fun,” he added. Shatta Wale’s relationship with the TGMA has remained strained since the widely publicised incident involving fellow dancehall artist Stonebwoy during the 2019 edition of the awards. The altercation occurred after Stonebwoy was announced winner of the Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year category. A confrontation between members of both camps caused disruption at the venue, while Stonebwoy briefly displayed a firearm on stage, leading to panic among attendees. Both artists were later arrested and granted bail following the incident, which remains one of the most controversial moments in the history of the TGMA. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Bullet Calls for Shatta Wale’s Return to TGMA By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment May 14, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: RuffTown Records founder Bullet has called on organisers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) to reinstate dancehall artist Shatta Wale to the award scheme. Speaking during an interview, Bullet said Shatta Wale’s participation in events consistently brings excitement, competition and increased public interest. “I think they should bring back Shatta Wale. If only they are willing to and would listen to me, they should bring him back,” he said. According to Bullet, the artist’s fanbase plays a major role in creating energy and engagement at entertainment events. ADVERTISEMENT “They should bring him back to make it more fun because, after all, he is still a Ghanaian musician, so they should talk things out with him and bring him back,” he stated during an interview on OKAY FM. Bullet added that healthy competition within the music industry helps improve entertainment value and audience participation. “I do not care if anybody disagrees, but I am saying what I also think. We all need competition, and I know when SM is involved in something, no doubt it makes it fun,” he added. ADVERTISEMENT Shatta Wale’s relationship with the TGMA has remained strained since the widely publicised incident involving fellow dancehall artist Stonebwoy during the 2019 edition of the awards. The altercation occurred after Stonebwoy was announced winner of the Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year category. A confrontation between members of both camps caused disruption at the venue, while Stonebwoy briefly displayed a firearm on stage, leading to panic among attendees. 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 Both artists were later arrested and granted bail following the incident, which remains one of the most controversial moments in the history of the TGMA. Source: OKAY FM 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 Ghanian Musics Ghanian Musics Ghana Ghana

Tigrayan farmers working in a field, wearing traditional headscarves and clothing, with a mountainous landscape in the background. Tigray, Ethiopia – Almost two years after the end of the devastating conflict in Tigray, northern Ethiopia, the region continues to grapple with severe challenges. The war, which lasted from 2020 to 2022, saw a deadly confrontation between Tigrayan forces and the Ethiopian government, supported by neighboring Eritrea and other regional allies such as the Amharas. The conflict, as reported by the African Union, may have claimed up to 600,000 lives, with some experts even suspecting acts of genocide. Despite the Pretoria peace agreement, Tigray remains heavily impacted, struggling to recover from the widespread destruction. As the rainy season approaches, farmers in Tigray are back in the fields, sowing seeds for the new season. In the local dialect, Teklay plants Dagusha, a pearl millet essential for making injera, a staple Ethiopian pancake, and traditional alcohol. However, the task feels burdensome and disheartening. "During the war, our cattle were slaughtered and consumed by soldiers. We were unable to cultivate any land. Now, although the fighting has ceased, the prospects are bleak. Last year, locusts destroyed much of our crops. This year, we are continuing mainly out of obligation to our ancestors. We don't anticipate more than 50 kilograms of harvest, barely enough to fill one bag. Moreover, we do not own the land; we rent it and pay half of the production yield. I even had to sell my oxen during the conflict to survive," Teklay lamented. His neighbor voices similar concerns about the ongoing difficulties: inadequate equipment, a shortage of animals , and overall resources. Many farmers in Tigray face dire conditions, with some resorting to using donkeys instead of oxen to pull ploughs. The peace agreement has not yet revived the agricultural sector to its pre-war state. "Humanitarian aid has reached the village, but it falls short of what is needed. I have a few animals left, but I may need to sell them to buy food. What we urgently need now is fertilizer and livestock," he said. The international community's support is crucial for preventing a potential famine in Tigray. Tigrayan farmers are left hoping for more substantial aid to help rebuild their lives and restore their agricultural activities. By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jul 20, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Tigray, Ethiopia – Almost two years after the end of the devastating conflict in Tigray, northern Ethiopia, the region continues to grapple with severe challenges. The war, which lasted from 2020 to 2022, saw a deadly confrontation between Tigrayan forces and the Ethiopian government, supported by neighboring Eritrea and other regional allies such as the Amharas. The conflict, as reported by the African Union, may have claimed up to 600,000 lives, with some experts even suspecting acts of genocide. Despite the Pretoria peace agreement, Tigray remains heavily impacted, struggling to recover from the widespread destruction. ADVERTISEMENT As the rainy season approaches, farmers in Tigray are back in the fields, sowing seeds for the new season. In the local dialect, Teklay plants Dagusha, a pearl millet essential for making injera, a staple Ethiopian pancake, and traditional alcohol. However, the task feels burdensome and disheartening. "During the war, our cattle were slaughtered and consumed by soldiers. We were unable to cultivate any land. Now, although the fighting has ceased, the prospects are bleak. Last year, locusts destroyed much of our crops. This year, we are continuing mainly out of obligation to our ancestors. We don't anticipate more than 50 kilograms of harvest, barely enough to fill one bag. Moreover, we do not own the land; we rent it and pay half of the production yield. I even had to sell my oxen during the conflict to survive," Teklay lamented. ADVERTISEMENT His neighbor voices similar concerns about the ongoing difficulties: inadequate equipment, a shortage of animals , and overall resources. Many farmers in Tigray face dire conditions, with some resorting to using donkeys instead of oxen to pull ploughs. The peace agreement has not yet revived the agricultural sector to its pre-war state. "Humanitarian aid has reached the village, but it falls short of what is needed. I have a few animals left, but I may need to sell them to buy food. What we urgently need now is fertilizer and livestock," he said. The international community's support is crucial for preventing a potential famine in Tigray. Tigrayan farmers are left hoping for more substantial aid to help rebuild their lives and restore their agricultural activities. 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

Early Monday in central Kenya's Mai Mahiu area, a catastrophic dam burst led to deadly floods that have claimed the lives of at least 42 people, including 17 minors. The disaster has escalated the crisis in regions already battered by severe weather, with the death toll from recent flooding exceeding 140. The aftermath of the dam collapse was severe, with significant damage to local infrastructure. Images shared on social media by Kenyan media, the Kenya Red Cross, and highway authorities depicted scenes of devastation, including uprooted trees and vehicles ensnared in debris. Naivasha police commander, Stephen Kirui, confirmed the death toll from the site of the tragedy in Kijabe, highlighting ongoing search and rescue operations. This season's heavy rains have wreaked havoc across East Africa, not only in Kenya but also in neighboring countries like Tanzania and Burundi, causing extensive displacement and infrastructural damage. In Kenya alone, excluding the Mai Mahiu incident, official reports as of Monday noted 103 fatalities and the displacement of over 185,000 individuals due to floods. The Kenya Red Cross has been actively involved, providing aid and conducting rescue missions, including the recovery of bodies from a capsized boat in Tana River. To ensure public safety, Kenya's education ministry has delayed the start of the new school term by a week, citing the severe impact of the rains on school facilities. The floods have inflicted significant damage on critical infrastructure, including roads and bridges. A notable incident occurred at an underpass near Nairobi's international airport, though airport operations continue. The floods have also brought hydroelectric dams to capacity, raising fears of further overflows. The repeated flooding incidents highlight the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and climate adaptation strategies. As rescue and relief efforts continue, the focus is on supporting the affected communities and reinforcing infrastructure to withstand future extreme weather events. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Apr 29, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A team of rescue workers trying to reach out to the affected people Early Monday in central Kenya's Mai Mahiu area, a catastrophic dam burst led to deadly floods that have claimed the lives of at least 42 people, including 17 minors. The disaster has escalated the crisis in regions already battered by severe weather, with the death toll from recent flooding exceeding 140. The aftermath of the dam collapse was severe, with significant damage to local infrastructure. Images shared on social media by Kenyan media, the Kenya Red Cross, and highway authorities depicted scenes of devastation, including uprooted trees and vehicles ensnared in debris. Naivasha police commander, Stephen Kirui, confirmed the death toll from the site of the tragedy in Kijabe, highlighting ongoing search and rescue operations. This season's heavy rains have wreaked havoc across East Africa, not only in Kenya but also in neighboring countries like Tanzania and Burundi, causing extensive displacement and infrastructural damage. In Kenya alone, excluding the Mai Mahiu incident, official reports as of Monday noted 103 fatalities and the displacement of over 185,000 individuals due to floods. ADVERTISEMENT The Kenya Red Cross has been actively involved, providing aid and conducting rescue missions, including the recovery of bodies from a capsized boat in Tana River. To ensure public safety, Kenya's education ministry has delayed the start of the new school term by a week, citing the severe impact of the rains on school facilities. The floods have inflicted significant damage on critical infrastructure, including roads and bridges. A notable incident occurred at an underpass near Nairobi's international airport, though airport operations continue. The floods have also brought hydroelectric dams to capacity, raising fears of further overflows. ADVERTISEMENT The repeated flooding incidents highlight the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and climate adaptation strategies. As rescue and relief efforts continue, the focus is on supporting the affected communities and reinforcing infrastructure to withstand future extreme weather events. 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

Lilian Mbabazi missed her planned duet with Kitoko at Davido’s Kigali concert after stage time changes left her backstage. Lilian Mbabazi left BK Arena disappointed on Friday night after missing an expected stage appearance during Davido’s concert in Kigali. The East African singer had been scheduled to perform a duet with Rwandan artist Kitoko Bibarwa but was never called to the stage. The event, held on 5 December 2025, marked Davido’s fifth performance in Rwanda. The highly anticipated show, sponsored by Skol Malt, featured a lineup that included Kid From Kigali, Logan Joe, Juno Kizigenza, Ariel Wayz, Riderman and Kitoko Bibarwa as opening acts ahead of Davido’s “5IVE” album showcase. Kitoko, who was set to perform the song “Yegwe Weka” with Mbabazi, received less stage time than planned. During his final minutes on stage, he mentioned that he had been instructed to conclude early, preventing him from performing the duet. Meanwhile, Mbabazi waited backstage with a microphone prepared for her cue, which never came. After exiting the stage, Kitoko approached her to apologize, explaining that the decision had been beyond his control. Mbabazi responded calmly, acknowledging that the situation was not his fault. Despite the setback, both artists expressed professionalism—Mbabazi showing understanding and Kitoko visibly disappointed by the missed opportunity to deliver the planned performance to fans. Continue Reading Full Article AFROBEATS Lilian Mbabazi Misses Stage Appearance at Davido’s Kigali Concert By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 6, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Lilian Mbabazi left BK Arena disappointed on Friday night after missing an expected stage appearance during Davido’s concert in Kigali. The East African singer had been scheduled to perform a duet with Rwandan artist Kitoko Bibarwa but was never called to the stage. The event, held on 5 December 2025, marked Davido’s fifth performance in Rwanda. The highly anticipated show, sponsored by Skol Malt, featured a lineup that included Kid From Kigali, Logan Joe, Juno Kizigenza, Ariel Wayz, Riderman and Kitoko Bibarwa as opening acts ahead of Davido’s “5IVE” album showcase. ADVERTISEMENT Kitoko, who was set to perform the song “Yegwe Weka” with Mbabazi, received less stage time than planned. During his final minutes on stage, he mentioned that he had been instructed to conclude early, preventing him from performing the duet. Meanwhile, Mbabazi waited backstage with a microphone prepared for her cue, which never came. After exiting the stage, Kitoko approached her to apologize, explaining that the decision had been beyond his control. Mbabazi responded calmly, acknowledging that the situation was not his fault. ADVERTISEMENT Despite the setback, both artists expressed professionalism—Mbabazi showing understanding and Kitoko visibly disappointed by the missed opportunity to deliver the planned performance to fans. 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 KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career . Pop Culture Trends Jessie J Says Cancer Risk Remains Despite Early Detection and Surgery . Celebrity Trends jay-z-solange-met-gala-elevator-incident-new-details . Afrobeats Lilian Mbabazi Misses Stage Appearance at Davido’s Kigali Concert . Justice & Crime Tekashi 6ix9ine Given Three-Month Prison Term for Probation Violations . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career Meet Ghana’s KiDi: his age, family, breakthrough, awards and 2026 album . Pop Culture Trends Jessie J Says Cancer Risk Remains Despite Early Detection and Surgery Singer reflects on diagnosis, surgery and emotional moment with her mother after cancer news . Celebrity Trends jay-z-solange-met-gala-elevator-incident-new-details Designer Oscar G. Lopez offers new insight into the 2014 elevator confrontation at the Met Gala . Afrobeats Lilian Mbabazi Misses Stage Appearance at Davido’s Kigali Concert Singer left waiting backstage after planned duet with Kitoko was cut during Davido’s BK Arena show . Tags Musics Musics

Biza Blingza says he would welcome a chance to collaborate with 50 Cent as he promotes his latest EP. Manchester-based Afrobeats artiste Ibhizugbe Osa, popularly known as Biza Blingza, says he would readily embrace an opportunity to collaborate with American rapper 50 Cent , whom he described as one of his biggest musical inspirations. Speaking while promoting his latest EP, Dutty O’Clock , the Nigerian-born musician said 50 Cent has remained a major influence on his music journey alongside groups such as G-Unit and artistes like Cyrus Tha Virus . “If the opportunity comes to collaborate with 50 Cent, I’ll grab it,” Biza Blingza said, adding that the rapper has long been one of his idols. The artiste, who has collaborated with musicians including Cyrus Tha Virus, Papichino and Diamant-B, also revealed plans to continue promoting singles from his catalogue, including Gimmie Some Love , Bulls and Rah Rah . Biza Blingza said women play a significant role in supporting the music industry, noting that female fans contribute heavily through music purchases and streaming. Born in Benin City, Nigeria, and currently based in Manchester, United Kingdom, the Afrobeats performer described music as a spiritual journey and said his stage name reflects his belief in standing out and inspiring others. His latest EP, released on April 10, blends African influences with contemporary Afrobeats aimed at a global audience. He also advised young people to avoid drug abuse and not imitate every lifestyle portrayed by entertainers online. Source: The Sun Nigeria interview with Biza Blingza. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Biza Blingza Eyes Future Collaboration With 50 Cent By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment May 8, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Manchester-based Afrobeats artiste Ibhizugbe Osa, popularly known as Biza Blingza, says he would readily embrace an opportunity to collaborate with American rapper 50 Cent , whom he described as one of his biggest musical inspirations. Speaking while promoting his latest EP, Dutty O’Clock , the Nigerian-born musician said 50 Cent has remained a major influence on his music journey alongside groups such as G-Unit and artistes like Cyrus Tha Virus . “If the opportunity comes to collaborate with 50 Cent, I’ll grab it,” Biza Blingza said, adding that the rapper has long been one of his idols. ADVERTISEMENT The artiste, who has collaborated with musicians including Cyrus Tha Virus, Papichino and Diamant-B, also revealed plans to continue promoting singles from his catalogue, including Gimmie Some Love , Bulls and Rah Rah . Biza Blingza said women play a significant role in supporting the music industry, noting that female fans contribute heavily through music purchases and streaming. ADVERTISEMENT Born in Benin City, Nigeria, and currently based in Manchester, United Kingdom, the Afrobeats performer described music as a spiritual journey and said his stage name reflects his belief in standing out and inspiring others. His latest EP, released on April 10, blends African influences with contemporary Afrobeats aimed at a global audience. He also advised young people to avoid drug abuse and not imitate every lifestyle portrayed by entertainers online. 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 interview with Biza Blingza. 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

N'Djamena, Chad – Chad's constitutional council has officially confirmed Mahamat Idriss Deby as the winner of the May 6 presidential election, dismissing challenges from two losing candidates. This victory cements Deby's rule and extends his family's decades-long control over the country. Mahamat Deby seized power in 2021 following the death of his father, President Idriss Deby, who was killed by rebels. Declaring himself interim leader, Deby has now secured 61% of the vote, far ahead of second-placed candidate Succes Masra, who garnered 18.54%, according to the council's announcement. Opposition leader Succes Masra acknowledged the council's ruling and indicated he would not contest it further. "With the decision of the constitutional council today, we have used all available legal means, and even if we do not accept this decision, there are no other legal means in our judicial architecture," Masra said during a live address on Thursday evening. Key Western Ally in the Sahel Chad, an oil-producing nation, is the first of several coup-hit states in West and Central Africa's Sahel region to attempt a return to constitutional rule through elections. Despite internal challenges, Chad remains a crucial Western ally in the fight against al Qaeda and Islamic State-linked insurgencies in the Sahel region. This comes as neighboring countries Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have expelled Western forces and sought support from Russia instead. Western Relations Under Strain However, Chad's relationship with Western powers has been tested recently. Last month, Chad's air force chief requested the U.S. to halt activities at an air base due to issues with paperwork, prompting the U.S. to announce a temporary withdrawal of some troops. This development has kept Washington and former colonial power France on alert regarding Chad's political and military landscape. Mahamat Deby's confirmation as president marks a significant step in Chad's political journey, highlighting the ongoing complexities and geopolitical dynamics in the Sahel region. As Chad navigates its path forward, the international community will be closely watching its political stability and alliances. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 18, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Mahamat Idriss Deby Chad's decrared president N'Djamena, Chad – Chad's constitutional council has officially confirmed Mahamat Idriss Deby as the winner of the May 6 presidential election, dismissing challenges from two losing candidates. This victory cements Deby's rule and extends his family's decades-long control over the country. Mahamat Deby seized power in 2021 following the death of his father, President Idriss Deby, who was killed by rebels. Declaring himself interim leader, Deby has now secured 61% of the vote, far ahead of second-placed candidate Succes Masra, who garnered 18.54%, according to the council's announcement. ADVERTISEMENT Opposition leader Succes Masra acknowledged the council's ruling and indicated he would not contest it further. "With the decision of the constitutional council today, we have used all available legal means, and even if we do not accept this decision, there are no other legal means in our judicial architecture," Masra said during a live address on Thursday evening. Key Western Ally in the Sahel Chad, an oil-producing nation, is the first of several coup-hit states in West and Central Africa's Sahel region to attempt a return to constitutional rule through elections. Despite internal challenges, Chad remains a crucial Western ally in the fight against al Qaeda and Islamic State-linked insurgencies in the Sahel region. This comes as neighboring countries Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have expelled Western forces and sought support from Russia instead. ADVERTISEMENT Western Relations Under Strain However, Chad's relationship with Western powers has been tested recently. Last month, Chad's air force chief requested the U.S. to halt activities at an air base due to issues with paperwork, prompting the U.S. to announce a temporary withdrawal of some troops. This development has kept Washington and former colonial power France on alert regarding Chad's political and military landscape. Mahamat Deby's confirmation as president marks a significant step in Chad's political journey, highlighting the ongoing complexities and geopolitical dynamics in the Sahel region. As Chad navigates its path forward, the international community will be closely watching its political stability and alliances. 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

UN officials reaffirm support for Faure Gnassingbé's mediation as efforts continue to resolve the eastern DRC conflict. African Union mediator Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé has intensified efforts to coordinate peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo , following a high-level meeting with senior United Nations officials in Lomé. According to a report by Actualité.cd , the UN reaffirmed its support for the Togolese leader's mediation role during talks held on June 8. The discussions brought together James Swan, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative in the DRC and head of MONUSCO, and Huang Xia, the UN Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region. The meeting focused on the progress of ongoing diplomatic initiatives and ways the United Nations can support African Union-led efforts toward a lasting settlement of the crisis in eastern Congo. According to the Togolese presidency, both UN officials welcomed Togo's commitment to promoting peace, stability and the peaceful resolution of conflicts across Africa. They also pledged continued support for Gnassingbé's role as the African Union's designated mediator, a position he assumed after succeeding Angolan President João Lourenço in the regional peace process. The meeting took place alongside a biannual review of mediation efforts in the Great Lakes region, reflecting growing international efforts to align diplomatic initiatives. Togo has increasingly emerged as a central platform for consultations involving the African Union, the United Nations and regional stakeholders seeking a coordinated approach to the conflict. Despite these diplomatic efforts, the security and humanitarian situation in eastern DRC remains fragile. The implementation of agreements reached through various initiatives, including the Washington process and talks facilitated by Qatar in Doha, continues to face obstacles as key parties remain divided over major provisions and commitments. Kinshasa continues to accuse Rwanda of supporting the AFC/M23 rebellion, an allegation Kigali denies and accepts sometimes . Meanwhile, mediators face the challenge of narrowing the gap between diplomatic commitments and realities on the ground, where violence and displacement continue to affect communities across eastern Congo. The renewed backing from the United Nations is expected to strengthen ongoing African Union efforts as regional and international actors seek to revive momentum toward a durable political and security solution. Continue Reading Full Article DRC PEACE EFFORT UN Reaffirms Support for Faure Gnassingbé's Mediation in Eastern DRC By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 9, 2026 Jun 9, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: African Union mediator Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé has intensified efforts to coordinate peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo , following a high-level meeting with senior United Nations officials in Lomé. According to a report by Actualité.cd , the UN reaffirmed its support for the Togolese leader's mediation role during talks held on June 8. The discussions brought together James Swan, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative in the DRC and head of MONUSCO, and Huang Xia, the UN Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region. The meeting focused on the progress of ongoing diplomatic initiatives and ways the United Nations can support African Union-led efforts toward a lasting settlement of the crisis in eastern Congo. ADVERTISEMENT According to the Togolese presidency, both UN officials welcomed Togo's commitment to promoting peace, stability and the peaceful resolution of conflicts across Africa. They also pledged continued support for Gnassingbé's role as the African Union's designated mediator, a position he assumed after succeeding Angolan President João Lourenço in the regional peace process. The meeting took place alongside a biannual review of mediation efforts in the Great Lakes region, reflecting growing international efforts to align diplomatic initiatives. ADVERTISEMENT Togo has increasingly emerged as a central platform for consultations involving the African Union, the United Nations and regional stakeholders seeking a coordinated approach to the conflict. Despite these diplomatic efforts, the security and humanitarian situation in eastern DRC remains fragile. The implementation of agreements reached through various initiatives, including the Washington process and talks facilitated by Qatar in Doha, continues to face obstacles as key parties remain divided over major provisions and commitments. 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 Kinshasa continues to accuse Rwanda of supporting the AFC/M23 rebellion, an allegation Kigali denies and accepts sometimes . Meanwhile, mediators face the challenge of narrowing the gap between diplomatic commitments and realities on the ground, where violence and displacement continue to affect communities across eastern Congo. The renewed backing from the United Nations is expected to strengthen ongoing African Union efforts as regional and international actors seek to revive momentum toward a durable political and security solution. 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 DRC Politics DRC Politics DR Congo News DR Congo News African Union African Union

How Rémy Amahirwa and Carine Kanimba transformed personal loss into international advocacy over Rwanda’s political detentions. Rémy Amahirwa was only a teenager when he watched his mother, Victoire Ingabire, a prominent Rwandan opposition leader, escorted from their home by plain‑clothes agents in the early hours of 19 June 2025. Authorities said she had formed a criminal organization and was “planning to incite public disorder,” charges human rights groups describe as politically motivated . Months earlier, another child of Rwandan politics, Carine Kanimba, had seen her marathon advocacy campaign end in success when her father, “Hotel Rwanda” hero Paul Rusesabagina, was released after more than two years in detentio n. The two youths are united by a refusal to accept their parents’ fate: one is still pleading for justice; the other proved that sustained campaigning can free a prisoner. The stories of Amahirwa and Kanimba encapsulate the precarious space for dissent in Rwanda and the role the diaspora can play in challenging the state’s narrative. Rights groups say Rwanda has tightened political space under President Paul Kagame, prompting exiled activists and their families to seek redress abroad. By mobilizing public opinion, engaging diplomats and leveraging platforms like the United Nations Human Rights Council, these children‑turned‑advocates show both the power and limits of transnational activism. Their intertwined narratives highlight how one campaign powered by international pressure won a release, while the other faces a legal process critics deem unfair. A political legacy and a new arrest Victoire Ingabire is a household name in Rwandan opposition politics. After eight years in exile, she returned to Rwanda in January 2010 to register the Unified Democratic Forces (FDU‑Inkingi) and challenge Kagame’s rule . Within months she was arrested, convicted on charges including “genocide ideology,” and later sentenced to 15 years in prison before receiving a presidential pardon in 2018. That pardon came with restrictions on her movement and political activities. Despite the constraints, she remained a vocal critic of the government. On 19 June 2025, agents of the Rwanda Investigation Bureau raided Ingabire’s home in Kigali, searching her residence and interrogating her until 5 a.m. before taking her to detention. Authorities subsequently charged her with forming a criminal group and inciting public disorder. Human Rights Watch reported that the state accused her of planning activities that could cause unrest. Rights organizations Freedom Now and the Human Rights Foundation described the arrest as “without a warrant” and claimed she was held without access to counsel. International observers including a UN special rapporteur and the European Parliament called for her immediate release, but a Kigali court remanded her into pre‑trial detention. Amahirwa’s public appeals For Amahirwa, then 20, his mother’s arrest changed his life. Speaking at the U.N. Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Rwanda in January 2026, he confronted Justice Minister Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, reminding the world that his mother had been held in solitary confinement for months . The minister responded by assuring the U.N. session that Ingabire would receive a fair trial. Amahirwa, however, remained skeptical, later writing that Kagame had chosen to silence his mother and that the charges were a “travesty”. Continue Reading Full Article JUSTICE & CRIME How Kanimba and Amahirwa Turned Family Pain Into Advocacy By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Feb 5, 2026 May 15, 2026 10 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Rémy Amahirwa was only a teenager when he watched his mother, Victoire Ingabire, a prominent Rwandan opposition leader, escorted from their home by plain‑clothes agents in the early hours of 19 June 2025. Authorities said she had formed a criminal organization and was “planning to incite public disorder,” charges human rights groups describe as politically motivated . Months earlier, another child of Rwandan politics, Carine Kanimba, had seen her marathon advocacy campaign end in success when her father, “Hotel Rwanda” hero Paul Rusesabagina, was released after more than two years in detentio n. The two youths are united by a refusal to accept their parents’ fate: one is still pleading for justice; the other proved that sustained campaigning can free a prisoner. The stories of Amahirwa and Kanimba encapsulate the precarious space for dissent in Rwanda and the role the diaspora can play in challenging the state’s narrative. Rights groups say Rwanda has tightened political space under President Paul Kagame, prompting exiled activists and their families to seek redress abroad. By mobilizing public opinion, engaging diplomats and leveraging platforms like the United Nations Human Rights Council, these children‑turned‑advocates show both the power and limits of transnational activism. Their intertwined narratives highlight how one campaign powered by international pressure won a release, while the other faces a legal process critics deem unfair. A political legacy and a new arrest Victoire Ingabire is a household name in Rwandan opposition politics. After eight years in exile, she returned to Rwanda in January 2010 to register the Unified Democratic Forces (FDU‑Inkingi) and challenge Kagame’s rule . Within months she was arrested, convicted on charges including “genocide ideology,” and later sentenced to 15 years in prison before receiving a presidential pardon in 2018. That pardon came with restrictions on her movement and political activities. Despite the constraints, she remained a vocal critic of the government. On 19 June 2025, agents of the Rwanda Investigation Bureau raided Ingabire’s home in Kigali, searching her residence and interrogating her until 5 a.m. before taking her to detention. Authorities subsequently charged her with forming a criminal group and inciting public disorder. ADVERTISEMENT Human Rights Watch reported that the state accused her of planning activities that could cause unrest. Rights organizations Freedom Now and the Human Rights Foundation described the arrest as “without a warrant” and claimed she was held without access to counsel. International observers including a UN special rapporteur and the European Parliament called for her immediate release, but a Kigali court remanded her into pre‑trial detention. Amahirwa’s public appeals For Amahirwa, then 20, his mother’s arrest changed his life. Speaking at the U.N. Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Rwanda in January 2026, he confronted Justice Minister Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, reminding the world that his mother had been held in solitary confinement for months . The minister responded by assuring the U.N. session that Ingabire would receive a fair trial. Amahirwa, however, remained skeptical, later writing that Kagame had chosen to silence his mother and that the charges were a “travesty”. In op‑eds for The Guardian and RealClearWorld , Amahirwa recounted that his mother was arrested days after publishing an article calling for national dialogue and that she has been denied bail and contact with family members. He urged Western governments to condition aid on improvements in Rwanda’s rule of law and accused the Kagame administration of targeting critics abroad. He also made the case that Rwanda’s increasingly transnational repression evident in the arrests of other FDU members and the disappearance of political opponents requires coordinated international responses. Legal limbo and rights concerns As of early February 2026, Ingabire remained in pre‑trial detention. Freedom Now’s case summary notes that judges who ordered her arrest have been presiding over her trial and that her request for bail was denied despite her history of compliance with court restrictions. The organization says she is held in solitary confinement, with limited family contact . Human Rights Watch has argued that the charges are politically motivated and that her arrest signals a broader crackdown on opposition voices. Amahirwa’s campaign continues, but with no clear timeline for his mother’s trial, he faces an uphill battle to keep her plight on the international agenda. Carine Kanimba’s campaign: a daughter’s successful fight for release A dramatic abduction and politicized trial Carine Kanimba, born in 1994 amid the genocide, is the youngest daughter of Paul Rusesabagina, the hotelier whose actions sheltering over 1,200 Tutsi and moderate Hutu during the genocide inspired the film Hotel Rwanda . In August 2020, Kanimba’s father boarded what he believed was a flight to Burundi but was diverted to Kigali. U.S. officials later said he had been “kidnapped” or lured by a Rwandan intelligence operation; he was arrested and charged with terrorism-related offences. After a trial widely criticized as unfair, he received a 25‑year sentence in September 2021. ADVERTISEMENT #FreeRusesabagina campaign Instead of accepting the verdict, Carine and her family launched the #FreeRusesabagina campaign, engaging with U.S. and European officials, mobilizing social media and speaking to news outlets. In July 2022 she testified before the U.S. House Intelligence Committee, detailing how her father was tortured and held in solitary confinement; she also told lawmakers that Rwandan authorities targeted her with Pegasus spyware as she advocated for his release . She delivered similar testimony to the European Parliament, urging restrictions on surveillance technology. Her efforts drew support from human rights groups and celebrities. The Biden administration designated Rusesabagina as “wrongfully detained” and pressed Kigali for his release. On 24 March 2023, after negotiations involving Qatar and the United States, the Rwandan government commuted his sentence. Reuters reported that he was released from prison and flown to Doha before returning to the United States; President Biden thanked Rwanda and Qatar for making the release possible . Continued activism and recognition Even after her father’s release, Kanimba has continued to campaign against transnational repression. She warns that Rwanda uses surveillance and legal harassment against dissidents abroad. In an interview with the Copenhagen Democracy Summit, she noted that she received the “Heroes of Democracy” and “Global Magnitsky Justice” awards and now serves as spokesperson for the World Liberty Congress . The campaign’s success demonstrates the potential of coordinated advocacycombining media attention, legal action and diplomatic engagement to pressure governments. Yet critics caution that Rusesabagina’s release occurred only after significant U.S. and Qatari intervention, illustrating the limits of moral arguments alone. Both cases underscore how Rwanda’s domestic legal processes intersect with international diplomacy. Ingabire and Rusesabagina were charged with serious offences by Rwandan authorities, yet global perception of those charges diverges sharply. Human rights groups argue that both cases represent an abuse of anti‑terrorism laws to stifle dissent. Kigali denies this, asserting that its courts are independent and that high‑profile defendants will receive fair trials. The arrest of Ingabire during a UPR year suggests that Rwanda is willing to weather international criticism for perceived threats to its political order. People also read: 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 . 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High‑level involvement by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivan, along with mediation by Qatar, proved decisive . These differences suggest a hierarchy in transnational advocacy: cases involving dual nationals or individuals with significant Western support may gain more traction. They also highlight how activism can backfire. Kanimba was targeted with Pegasus spyware, and Amahirwa has faced online harassment, illustrating the risks for families challenging authoritarian states. What we know / What we don’t Confirmed facts: Victoire Ingabire, founder of the FDU‑Inkingi, was arrested on 19 June 2025 and charged with forming a criminal group and inciting public disorder. She remains in pre‑trial detention and has been denied bail. Paul Rusesabagina, convicted on terrorism charges in September 2021, was released from prison on 24 March 2023 after diplomatic negotiations involving Qatar and the United States. Rémy Amahirwa has publicly advocated for his mother, writing op‑eds, engaging with the U.N. Human Rights Council and accusing the Rwandan government of silencing her. Carine Kanimba led the #FreeRusesabagina campaign, testified before the U.S. House Intelligence Committee and European Parliament, and says she was targeted by spyware for her activism. Human rights groups including Freedom Now, Human Rights Watch and the European Parliament have called for Ingabire’s release and criticized Rwanda’s handling of political cases. Unknowns / unresolved: When Ingabire’s trial will commence and whether she will receive an impartial hearing. Whether international pressure will result in her release, as it did for Rusesabagina. The full extent of surveillance and harassment faced by dissidents’ families. Whether Rwanda will amend laws criticized as suppressing political opposition. The tales of Rémy Amahirwa and Carine Kanimba reveal the emotional toll of political repression and the strength of those who confront it. They offer two contrasting outcomes: a father freed through intense diplomatic lobbying and a mother still languishing in detention, her fate uncertain. Amahirwa’s campaign continues to spotlight what rights groups call Rwanda’s stifling of dissent, while Kanimba has transformed her family’s ordeal into broader advocacy against transnational repression. Their stories remind us that behind geopolitical manoeuvres are families determined to reclaim loved onessometimes succeeding, sometimes still waiting. 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 Rwanda Rwanda Rwandan Opposition Rwandan Opposition Kagame Crimes Kagame Crimes Rwanda Opposition Rwanda Opposition Rwanda Politics Rwanda Politics