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  • Nigeria PVC Collection: Dates, Documents and Where to Go

    Nigeria PVC collection is scheduled from 9 October 2026. Check where to collect, what to bring, lost-slip guidance and how to contact INEC. Nigeria, 9 October 2026 — Nationwide collection of newly issued Permanent Voter Cards is scheduled to start on Friday, 9 October 2026 , according to INEC’s announcement reported by Premium Times . Registered voters should confirm that their own card is available and establish the designated collection point before travelling. The announcement sets a national start date. It does not mean every card is ready at every office, or that voters can collect from whichever location is nearest to their home. How do I collect my PVC in Nigeria? Confirm your registration details and collection location with INEC, then attend personally with your temporary voter card or registration slip. If the slip is missing, ask about identification alternatives. The announced start is 9 October 2026; confirm local hours and any closing date before travelling. When does PVC collection begin? Premium Times reported that Lagos Resident Electoral Commissioner Ayobami Salami reaffirmed the date on 8 October while delivering INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan’s address at the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers conference. The date had also been announced at a media workshop in Abuja on 5 October, according to Punch . TheCable’s earlier report placed the original announcement at a Kaduna meeting on 28 September. These announcements establish the schedule. Your local INEC office remains the place to confirm practical arrangements for your particular card. Where should you collect your card? Start with the INEC office responsible for the Local Government Area where your voter registration is recorded. Explain whether you are collecting a first card, an older uncollected card or a card connected to a transfer or replacement request. Continue Reading Full Article POLICY AND REFORMS Nigeria PVC Collection: Dates, Documents and Where to Go By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 9, 2026 Oct 9, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigeria, 9 October 2026 — Nationwide collection of newly issued Permanent Voter Cards is scheduled to start on Friday, 9 October 2026 , according to INEC’s announcement reported by Premium Times . Registered voters should confirm that their own card is available and establish the designated collection point before travelling. The announcement sets a national start date. It does not mean every card is ready at every office, or that voters can collect from whichever location is nearest to their home. How do I collect my PVC in Nigeria? Confirm your registration details and collection location with INEC, then attend personally with your temporary voter card or registration slip. If the slip is missing, ask about identification alternatives. The announced start is 9 October 2026; confirm local hours and any closing date before travelling. When does PVC collection begin? Premium Times reported that Lagos Resident Electoral Commissioner Ayobami Salami reaffirmed the date on 8 October while delivering INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan’s address at the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers conference. The date had also been announced at a media workshop in Abuja on 5 October, according to Punch . TheCable’s earlier report placed the original announcement at a Kaduna meeting on 28 September. ADVERTISEMENT These announcements establish the schedule. Your local INEC office remains the place to confirm practical arrangements for your particular card. Where should you collect your card? Start with the INEC office responsible for the Local Government Area where your voter registration is recorded. Explain whether you are collecting a first card, an older uncollected card or a card connected to a transfer or replacement request. The EiE Nigeria RSVP collection FAQ identifies INEC’s LGA offices as the distribution channel and advises voters to confirm their details before visiting their chosen pickup office. Use INEC’s official state-office directory to find the appropriate state office and its LGA-directory links. Ask which office or designated centre holds your card, and whether a temporary ward-level collection arrangement applies. A polling unit identifies where you vote. Confirm the collection location separately rather than assuming that the polling unit is currently a pickup centre. ADVERTISEMENT What should you bring? RSVP advises voters to present the Temporary Voter’s Card or the slip issued at completion of registration . Bring the document if you still have it, along with any communication about your card or collection appointment. If your temporary card or slip has been lost, RSVP says a voter-data printout or an identity card can help establish identity. Confirm the accepted alternative with the relevant INEC office before making the journey. INEC’s published PVC distribution guidelines also provide for collection where a lost temporary card does not prevent officials from confirming the voter’s identity. That document dates from 2014: its old venue and opening-hour arrangements should not be treated as the October 2026 timetable. For separate identity-document needs, XTRAfrica has guides to replacing a lost NIN slip , retrieving a forgotten NIN and correcting a name on a NIN . Those services are distinct from INEC voter-card collection. Plan to attend yourself. INEC’s published distribution guidelines require physical presence and prohibit collection by proxy. A registration slip should therefore not be handed to a relative or an intermediary on the assumption that they can collect the card in your place. If you need accessibility assistance, ask INEC about the arrangements available at your designated centre before travelling. 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 What if your card cannot be found? Ask officials to check your registration record and the status of the card. Provide your registration details through the official enquiry channel, and keep a note of the response and any instruction to return. If the issue remains unresolved, INEC’s Citizens Contact Centre accepts enquiries and complaints. Its contact page lists 4632 and iccc@inec.gov.ng . Use the published directory for state-level assistance as well. Is 15 October the collection deadline? Do not assume so. Premium Times reports 9–15 October as the period for displaying the preliminary voter register for claims and objections. That is a separate exercise from collecting a PVC. Confirm a collection closing date and daily hours through the relevant INEC notice. When you receive the card, check your name, photograph and polling-unit details before leaving. Report any discrepancy to officials, and keep the card safely: INEC’s voter-education guidance requires voters to present their physical PVC for election-day verification. 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  • Kenya Airways Passenger Death: Police Probe Lagos Flight Incident

    Kenya Airways confirms a passenger died after a Nairobi–Lagos flight emergency. Nigerian police are investigating; identity and cause remain undisclosed. LAGOS, Nigeria — 7 October 2026 : Nigerian police are investigating the death of a passenger on a Kenya Airways flight from Nairobi to Lagos after a medical emergency on Tuesday night. The airline said medical personnel confirmed the death after the aircraft landed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. The passenger’s identity and cause of death have not been publicly disclosed in the accounts reviewed. No medical finding establishing what caused the death has been released in those reports. What happened on the Kenya Airways flight to Lagos? Kenya Airways says a passenger became unresponsive shortly before its Nairobi–Lagos flight landed on 6 October 2026. Medical personnel confirmed the death after arrival. Nigerian police are investigating the circumstances. The passenger’s name and cause of death remain undisclosed in the available accounts. Medical personnel met the aircraft in Lagos According to the airline’s statement reproduced by Nairobi Leo , the passenger was found unresponsive approximately 20 minutes before landing. Kenya Airways placed the emergency at around 9:20 PM Nigerian time on 6 October. The crew administered first aid and followed emergency procedures, the airline said. The flight landed at 9:41 PM, when medical personnel met the aircraft and examined the passenger. They subsequently confirmed that the passenger had died. Those times correspond to approximately 11:20 PM and 11:41 PM in Kenya and Uganda. The airline’s account establishes when the emergency was reported and when the aircraft arrived. It does not establish an exact time of death or provide a medical explanation for it. The distinction is significant for understanding the sequence: becoming unresponsive during the flight and being declared dead after arrival are separate stages in the public account. Neither supplies a diagnosis on its own. Nigerian officials describe an investigation Continue Reading Full Article TRANSPORT AND AIRLINES Kenya Airways Passenger Death: Police Probe Lagos Flight Incident By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 7, 2026 Oct 7, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: LAGOS, Nigeria — 7 October 2026 : Nigerian police are investigating the death of a passenger on a Kenya Airways flight from Nairobi to Lagos after a medical emergency on Tuesday night. The airline said medical personnel confirmed the death after the aircraft landed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. The passenger’s identity and cause of death have not been publicly disclosed in the accounts reviewed. No medical finding establishing what caused the death has been released in those reports. What happened on the Kenya Airways flight to Lagos? Kenya Airways says a passenger became unresponsive shortly before its Nairobi–Lagos flight landed on 6 October 2026. Medical personnel confirmed the death after arrival. Nigerian police are investigating the circumstances. The passenger’s name and cause of death remain undisclosed in the available accounts. Medical personnel met the aircraft in Lagos According to the airline’s statement reproduced by Nairobi Leo , the passenger was found unresponsive approximately 20 minutes before landing. Kenya Airways placed the emergency at around 9:20 PM Nigerian time on 6 October. The crew administered first aid and followed emergency procedures, the airline said. The flight landed at 9:41 PM, when medical personnel met the aircraft and examined the passenger. They subsequently confirmed that the passenger had died. ADVERTISEMENT Those times correspond to approximately 11:20 PM and 11:41 PM in Kenya and Uganda. The airline’s account establishes when the emergency was reported and when the aircraft arrived. It does not establish an exact time of death or provide a medical explanation for it. The distinction is significant for understanding the sequence: becoming unresponsive during the flight and being declared dead after arrival are separate stages in the public account. Neither supplies a diagnosis on its own. Nigerian officials describe an investigation The Guardian Nigeria reported comments from Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority spokesman Michael Achimugu and Airport Command police spokesman Adeola Muhammed on 7 October. Achimugu said the airline’s country manager had briefed him. According to his account, the passenger had been refused entry to Madagascar and was being returned. He also said the passenger attempted to reach the cockpit and open a rear door before being restrained with his hands behind his back. The airline’s published account describes a medical emergency without detailing restraint. Neither account establishes a cause of death. Muhammed told the newspaper that police had begun investigating and taken statements from the flight crew, including the captain. He said the body had been taken to a morgue in Ikeja. ADVERTISEMENT No completed police findings or autopsy conclusion were included in the report. No finding establishes that restraint caused the death or assigns responsibility. The passenger’s name and medical cause remain undisclosed Reporting by YEN notes that the airline did not disclose the passenger’s identity, nationality, age or flight number. It also did not announce a cause of death. A route cannot establish a passenger’s nationality. Likewise, the description of a medical emergency does not identify an illness. The available account provides no basis for naming a disease, making a diagnosis or connecting the death to another health incident. A confirmed identity would require an authorized disclosure from the family or relevant authorities. A cause-of-death account would require a medical finding or an appropriately attributed official statement. Until then, both questions remain unanswered. The public information concerns a passenger’s death and the circumstances under investigation. It does not support a personal profile assembled from circulating names, photographs or assumptions about the traveller’s background. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Government Announcements Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Political Appointments Muhoozi Clarifies Uganda CDF Exit Plan: Has He Resigned? . Agriculture Morocco Tomato Export Restrictions: Africa and Europe Explained . Investment Kenya Plans $500M Startup Fund: How It Could Work . Business Trends Killarney Mall Transfer Completed in R397.5 Million Deal . ADVERTISEMENT Airline says it is supporting the family Kenya Airways said it was coordinating with the passenger’s family, local authorities and aviation regulators. It expressed condolences and committed to respecting the privacy and dignity of those involved. The airline’s account describes assistance after the death without identifying the family or detailing those arrangements. It has not supplied a full explanation of the emergency in the statements reproduced by the reports cited here. Travellers seeking information about their own bookings can use Kenya Airways’ official travel-alerts page and contact the carrier directly. A report about this flight does not establish a change to another passenger’s departure or booking. The next substantive update would be a police account of the investigation, further clarification from the airline, or a medically established cause of death. Any such finding would need to be distinguished from the initial accounts given on 7 October. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Government Announcements Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next Signed environmental grants put local delivery, community ownership and accountability in focus. . Political Appointments Muhoozi Clarifies Uganda CDF Exit Plan: Has He Resigned? Muhoozi says he may hand over Uganda's military command but has not announced a resignation date. . 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  • Wode Maya Advises Young Couples Against Marriage Counselling

    Wode Maya says young couples should focus on understanding each other through time and shared experiences rather than marriage counselling. According to the source article , Ghanaian YouTuber and Pan-African content creator Wode Maya has advised young couples to focus less on formal marriage counselling and more on building understanding through shared experiences. Speaking during an interview on Starr Chat , Wode Maya said meaningful relationships are developed over time through daily interactions, challenges, and personal discovery rather than structured counselling sessions. He encouraged couples to spend time learning about each other naturally and to view mistakes as part of the growth process. He explained that real compatibility emerges when partners allow themselves to communicate honestly and navigate disagreements together. In his view, these experiences help couples identify what works best for their relationship without external intervention. Wode Maya ’s comments come shortly after he announced the birth of his first child with his wife, Trudy. The announcement followed years of personal challenges, including fertility struggles that tested the couple’s resilience. The content creator revealed that in September 2021, medical advice suggested that conceiving naturally could be difficult. Despite the uncertainty, he proposed to Trudy in December 2022, and the couple married in September 2023—a date that also marked the anniversary of Trudy’s mother’s death. Following their wedding, the couple reportedly experienced six miscarriages before welcoming their child in 2025. Sharing a timeline of their journey, Wode Maya described their experience as a testament to patience, faith, and perseverance. The announcement was met with widespread support from fans, many of whom praised the couple for their openness and resilience throughout their journey. Source: Pulse Ghana Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Wode Maya Advises Young Couples Against Marriage Counselling By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 1, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: According to the source article , Ghanaian YouTuber and Pan-African content creator Wode Maya has advised young couples to focus less on formal marriage counselling and more on building understanding through shared experiences. Speaking during an interview on Starr Chat , Wode Maya said meaningful relationships are developed over time through daily interactions, challenges, and personal discovery rather than structured counselling sessions. He encouraged couples to spend time learning about each other naturally and to view mistakes as part of the growth process. He explained that real compatibility emerges when partners allow themselves to communicate honestly and navigate disagreements together. In his view, these experiences help couples identify what works best for their relationship without external intervention. ADVERTISEMENT Wode Maya ’s comments come shortly after he announced the birth of his first child with his wife, Trudy. The announcement followed years of personal challenges, including fertility struggles that tested the couple’s resilience. The content creator revealed that in September 2021, medical advice suggested that conceiving naturally could be difficult. Despite the uncertainty, he proposed to Trudy in December 2022, and the couple married in September 2023—a date that also marked the anniversary of Trudy’s mother’s death. ADVERTISEMENT Following their wedding, the couple reportedly experienced six miscarriages before welcoming their child in 2025. Sharing a timeline of their journey, Wode Maya described their experience as a testament to patience, faith, and perseverance. The announcement was met with widespread support from fans, many of whom praised the couple for their openness and resilience throughout their journey. 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 . 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  • How Ruto’s Goma Appointment Undermines Congo’s Sovereignty

    Kenya’s Goma consulate plan defies DRC sovereignty, risks legitimising M23 rebels, and exposes Ruto’s dangerous foreign-policy gamble. Kenya has announced a sweeping reorganisation of its foreign service, dispatching ambassadors and consuls to cities across the world. The appointments, unveiled by the State House on 15 August, include postings to Addis Ababa, Abuja, Paris, and Dubai. But one nomination stands out: Ms. Judy Kiaria Nkumiri will head a newly created Kenyan consulate in Goma , capital of North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Goma sits at the heart of a war zone. Since January 2025 , M23 rebels , an armed group designated by the United States and United Nations for gross human‑rights abuses, have seized the city and its airport, displacing thousands and prompting protests in the Congolese capital. Nairobi’s decision to station a diplomat in territory largely controlled by M23 has provoked questions about legality, regional politics, and Pan‑African solidarity. Legality and the Vienna Convention International law requires exequatur , or formal approval from the receiving state, before a consulate can operate. Article 4 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations stipulates that a consular post may be established in a territory only with the consent of the receiving state , and that opening a consular office in another locality requires express consent. Article 12 further states that a head of a consular post must receive an exequatur from the receiving state and shall not enter upon his duties until he has received this authorization . Kinshasa has not granted such permission. In fact, the Congolese government refuses even to accredit Kenya’s ambassador and recalled its own envoy to Nairobi. Any Kenyan consulate in Goma would therefore contravene international law and Congo’s sovereignty. De‑facto recognition of M23 Goma is not just another consular district. The M23 rebel movement , widely viewed as a Rwandan proxy , controls the city’s administration, roads , and security. By choosing to open a mission in Goma rather than operating through Kinshasa, Nairobi appears to acknowledge the group that “controls the ground”. A Great Lakes security analyst quoted by Kivu Today said the appointment signals that Kenya will “talk to whoever controls the ground,” in this case, M23. The rebels’ offensive in January 2025 left bodies in the streets, forced U.N. staff to shelter on bases, and triggered protests that ransacked Kenya’s embassy in Kinshasa. Positioning a consulate there risks legitimising a sanctioned armed group and undermines ongoing African Union and SADC peace initiatives. Aligning Nairobi with Kigali? Kenya has long tried to mediate in eastern Congo, hosting the EAC‑sponsored Nairobi Process. However, relations with Kinshasa have deteriorated. The Congolese government refuses to accredit Kenya’s ambassador and has leaned on SADC for military support. Protesters have attacked the Kenyan embassy in Kinshasa, and the Kenyan consulate in Goma previously withdrew its staff after the city fell to M23. President Félix Tshisekedi has publicly accused President William Ruto of siding with Rwanda, citing the M23 coalition’s announcement at Nairobi’s Serena Hotel as evidence of Kenya’s partiality. By establishing a mission in M23‑controlled territory, Nairobi risks cementing the perception that it is aligning with Rwandan President Paul Kagame’s military strategy. This could strain East African Community unity and undermine Kenya’s credibility as a neutral mediator. Terrorism and conflict minerals Continue Reading Full Article | POLITICAL SCANDALS How Ruto’s Goma Appointment Undermines Congo’s Sovereignty By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Aug 16, 2025 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kenya has announced a sweeping reorganisation of its foreign service, dispatching ambassadors and consuls to cities across the world. The appointments, unveiled by the State House on 15 August, include postings to Addis Ababa, Abuja, Paris, and Dubai. But one nomination stands out: Ms. Judy Kiaria Nkumiri will head a newly created Kenyan consulate in Goma , capital of North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Goma sits at the heart of a war zone. Since January 2025 , M23 rebels , an armed group designated by the United States and United Nations for gross human‑rights abuses, have seized the city and its airport, displacing thousands and prompting protests in the Congolese capital. Nairobi’s decision to station a diplomat in territory largely controlled by M23 has provoked questions about legality, regional politics, and Pan‑African solidarity. Legality and the Vienna Convention International law requires exequatur , or formal approval from the receiving state, before a consulate can operate. Article 4 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations stipulates that a consular post may be established in a territory only with the consent of the receiving state , and that opening a consular office in another locality requires express consent. Article 12 further states that a head of a consular post must receive an exequatur from the receiving state and shall not enter upon his duties until he has received this authorization . Kinshasa has not granted such permission. In fact, the Congolese government refuses even to accredit Kenya’s ambassador and recalled its own envoy to Nairobi. Any Kenyan consulate in Goma would therefore contravene international law and Congo’s sovereignty. De‑facto recognition of M23 Goma is not just another consular district. The M23 rebel movement , widely viewed as a Rwandan proxy , controls the city’s administration, roads , and security. By choosing to open a mission in Goma rather than operating through Kinshasa, Nairobi appears to acknowledge the group that “controls the ground”. A Great Lakes security analyst quoted by Kivu Today said the appointment signals that Kenya will “talk to whoever controls the ground,” in this case, M23. The rebels’ offensive in January 2025 left bodies in the streets, forced U.N. staff to shelter on bases, and triggered protests that ransacked Kenya’s embassy in Kinshasa. Positioning a consulate there risks legitimising a sanctioned armed group and undermines ongoing African Union and SADC peace initiatives. ADVERTISEMENT Aligning Nairobi with Kigali? Kenya has long tried to mediate in eastern Congo, hosting the EAC‑sponsored Nairobi Process. However, relations with Kinshasa have deteriorated. The Congolese government refuses to accredit Kenya’s ambassador and has leaned on SADC for military support. Protesters have attacked the Kenyan embassy in Kinshasa, and the Kenyan consulate in Goma previously withdrew its staff after the city fell to M23. President Félix Tshisekedi has publicly accused President William Ruto of siding with Rwanda, citing the M23 coalition’s announcement at Nairobi’s Serena Hotel as evidence of Kenya’s partiality. By establishing a mission in M23‑controlled territory, Nairobi risks cementing the perception that it is aligning with Rwandan President Paul Kagame’s military strategy. This could strain East African Community unity and undermine Kenya’s credibility as a neutral mediator. ADVERTISEMENT Terrorism and conflict minerals The United States Treasury recently sanctioned entities linked to eastern Congo’s conflict minerals trade, designating PARECO‑FF, CDMC, and Hong Kong firms East Rise and Star Dragon for supporting M23. The sanctions note that M23 is responsible for human‑rights abuses and operates illegal taxation schemes in Rubaya’s coltan mines. By opening a consulate in Goma, Kenya risks cooperating with a rebel group the U.S. and U.N. consider a terrorist organisation. This could trigger secondary sanctions and damage Nairobi’s diplomatic relationships. It also contradicts Kenya’s stated commitment to Pan‑African solidarity; aligning with an armed group accused of rape, forced displacement, and mineral plunder betrays millions of Congolese civilians. Diplomatic fallout Diplomats warn that Kenya’s Goma gamble could backfire. Under the Vienna Convention, the DRC could declare any Kenyan consular officer persona non grata. Kinshasa might also expel Kenyan diplomats or suspend bilateral trade. The January protests that ransacked the Kenyan embassy show Congolese citizens’ anger at perceived foreign interference. 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 Politics & Diplomacy Tshisekedi Champions Peace, Jobs and Africa’s Voice in Moscow . Justice & Crime M23 → AFC → FRN: Has Anything Really Changed? . Justice & Crime Kagame's Failed Justifications for His Military Presence in the DRC . Justice & Crime From AFDL to FRN: Analysts Question Rwanda's Rebel Rebranding . Peace For DRC Now DRC Takes Rwanda Compliance Dispute to UNGA Over Resolution 2773 . ADVERTISEMENT Kinshasa has already pivoted toward SADC for military support. If Nairobi continues on its current path, it risks isolation within the regional bloc and could undermine efforts to build an African solution to the conflict. For Kenyan businesses expanding into the DRC, political instability and sanctions could jeopardise investments. By engaging rebels rather than supporting the lawful government in Kinshasa , Kenya appears to place realpolitik above solidarity. Congolese civilians, who have endured decades of violence and exploitation, may see the consulate as a betrayal of their suffering. Nairobi should reconsider whether short‑term diplomatic access in Goma is worth undermining its moral standing and legal obligations. Respecting Congo’s sovereignty and working within international frameworks remain the surest path to peace. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Politics & Diplomacy Tshisekedi Champions Peace, Jobs and Africa’s Voice in Moscow At the 2026 Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow, Tshisekedi calls for peace in eastern Congo... . Justice & Crime M23 → AFC → FRN: Has Anything Really Changed? XTRAfrica examines Joseph Kabila's leadership of the FRN, its continuity with AFC/M23 and ... . Justice & Crime Kagame's Failed Justifications for His Military Presence in the DRC UN findings, U.S. sanctions and the reported FRN launch raise questions about Kigali's military role . Justice & Crime From AFDL to FRN: Analysts Question Rwanda's Rebel Rebranding FRN's reported emergence in Goma revives debate over Rwanda's links to successive Congo rebellions. . Tags Featured News Featured News DR.Congo DR.Congo Kenya Kenya Breaking News Breaking News

  • Burundi's Bold Stand Against Rwanda: A Critical Analysis of Kagame's Regime n a move that has sent shockwaves across the East African political landscape, the Burundian government has taken the drastic step of closing its borders with Rwanda and expelling Rwandan citizens. This decision comes in the wake of serious allegations by Burundi accusing Rwanda of supporting the RED-Tabara rebel group, a claim that has been steadfastly denied by Kigali. The RED-Tabara group, known for its violent tactics, has been implicated in a recent attack near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, resulting in the tragic loss of 20 lives, including women and children. This has escalated tensions between the two nations, with Burundi's Interior Minister, Martin Niteretse, openly criticizing Rwandan President Paul Kagame for what he describes as "harboring criminals who harm Burundians. Relations between Burundi and Rwanda have often been strained, with a history of mutual accusations and diplomatic spats. However, this latest closure, following President Evariste Ndayishimiye's accusation of Rwanda's involvement with rebels, marks a significant escalation. Against the backdrop of these developments, the dynamics in the region are complex, particularly with the involvement of both countries in the ongoing instability in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The M23 rebel group, active in this area, is alleged by Western governments and the United Nations to be supported by Rwanda, a claim that the Rwandan government has denied The closure of the Burundi-Rwanda border is not an isolated incident. The border was previously closed in 2015 amid mutual accusations of supporting rebel factions and again reopened in 2022, demonstrating the cyclical nature of tensions between the two nations. This situation raises critical questions about President Kagame's leadership and Rwanda's role in regional stability. Known for his strict governance and controversial policies, Kagame has often been a subject of criticism and admiration in equal measure. His regime's alleged involvement in supporting rebel groups, if proven true, could severely damage Rwanda's standing in the international community and the East African region. Moreover, the closure of borders not only affects diplomatic relations but also hampers the economic and social connectivity that is vital for the prosperity of both nations. It disrupts trade, affects livelihoods, and deepens the divide between communities that share deep historical and cultural ties. As we analyze this unfolding situation, it is crucial to consider the broader implications of such actions on regional peace and security. while Burundi's decision to shut its borders with Rwanda might be seen as a bold stand against alleged aggression, it also serves as a reminder of the fragility of regional alliances and the need for strong, transparent, and peace-oriented leadership in the African Great Lakes region. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jan 11, 2024 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: diplomatic tension between Burundi and Rwanda Burundi's Bold Stand Against Rwanda: A Critical Analysis of Kagame's Regime n a move that has sent shockwaves across the East African political landscape, the Burundian government has taken the drastic step of closing its borders with Rwanda and expelling Rwandan citizens. This decision comes in the wake of serious allegations by Burundi accusing Rwanda of supporting the RED-Tabara rebel group, a claim that has been steadfastly denied by Kigali. The RED-Tabara group, known for its violent tactics, has been implicated in a recent attack near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, resulting in the tragic loss of 20 lives, including women and children. This has escalated tensions between the two nations, with Burundi's Interior Minister, Martin Niteretse, openly criticizing Rwandan President Paul Kagame for what he describes as "harboring criminals who harm Burundians. ADVERTISEMENT Relations between Burundi and Rwanda have often been strained, with a history of mutual accusations and diplomatic spats. However, this latest closure, following President Evariste Ndayishimiye's accusation of Rwanda's involvement with rebels, marks a significant escalation. Against the backdrop of these developments, the dynamics in the region are complex, particularly with the involvement of both countries in the ongoing instability in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The M23 rebel group, active in this area, is alleged by Western governments and the United Nations to be supported by Rwanda, a claim that the Rwandan government has denied The closure of the Burundi-Rwanda border is not an isolated incident. The border was previously closed in 2015 amid mutual accusations of supporting rebel factions and again reopened in 2022, demonstrating the cyclical nature of tensions between the two nations. ADVERTISEMENT This situation raises critical questions about President Kagame's leadership and Rwanda's role in regional stability. Known for his strict governance and controversial policies, Kagame has often been a subject of criticism and admiration in equal measure. His regime's alleged involvement in supporting rebel groups, if proven true, could severely damage Rwanda's standing in the international community and the East African region. Moreover, the closure of borders not only affects diplomatic relations but also hampers the economic and social connectivity that is vital for the prosperity of both nations. It disrupts trade, affects livelihoods, and deepens the divide between communities that share deep historical and cultural ties. 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 As we analyze this unfolding situation, it is crucial to consider the broader implications of such actions on regional peace and security. while Burundi's decision to shut its borders with Rwanda might be seen as a bold stand against alleged aggression, it also serves as a reminder of the fragility of regional alliances and the need for strong, transparent, and peace-oriented leadership in the African Great Lakes region. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

  • DRC Seeks Dublin Inquiry After Yves Sakila’s Death

    DRC calls for a transparent inquiry into Yves Sakila’s death in Dublin after a restraint incident. The Democratic Republic of Congo has urged Irish authorities to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation into the death of Congolese national Yves Sakila in Dublin, according to 7sur7.cd . DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner raised the case during a meeting on Thursday, May 28, 2026, with Irish President Catherine Connolly in Dublin. Kinshasa said the talks focused partly on the circumstances surrounding Sakila’s death and the judicial process now under way. Sakila, a 35-year-old Congolese IT specialist, died after a violent arrest incident in Dublin. Video shared widely on social media appeared to show him being restrained on the ground by private security guards. Irish authorities have opened an investigation, while public pressure has grown around the case. Ireland’s RTÉ reported that the country’s Special Rapporteur on Racism and Racial Equality called for an independent investigation into Sakila’s death . The case has also drawn wider attention in both Ireland and the Congolese diaspora. The Irish Times reported that Sakila’s death caused shock and anger in the DRC, where activists and community members have demanded accountability. Kayikwamba said the DRC expects investigations to be transparent, impartial and diligent. She also reaffirmed Kinshasa’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of Congolese citizens abroad. The case has become part of a broader debate over diaspora protection, racial discrimination and accountability in restraint-related de Continue Reading Full Article INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS DRC Seeks Dublin Inquiry After Yves Sakila’s Death By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment May 29, 2026 May 29, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo has urged Irish authorities to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation into the death of Congolese national Yves Sakila in Dublin, according to 7sur7.cd . DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner raised the case during a meeting on Thursday, May 28, 2026, with Irish President Catherine Connolly in Dublin. Kinshasa said the talks focused partly on the circumstances surrounding Sakila’s death and the judicial process now under way. ADVERTISEMENT Sakila, a 35-year-old Congolese IT specialist, died after a violent arrest incident in Dublin. Video shared widely on social media appeared to show him being restrained on the ground by private security guards. Irish authorities have opened an investigation, while public pressure has grown around the case. Ireland’s RTÉ reported that the country’s Special Rapporteur on Racism and Racial Equality called for an independent investigation into Sakila’s death . ADVERTISEMENT The case has also drawn wider attention in both Ireland and the Congolese diaspora. The Irish Times reported that Sakila’s death caused shock and anger in the DRC, where activists and community members have demanded accountability. Kayikwamba said the DRC expects investigations to be transparent, impartial and diligent. She also reaffirmed Kinshasa’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of Congolese citizens abroad. 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 DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation . ADVERTISEMENT The case has become part of a broader debate over diaspora protection, racial discrimination and accountability in restraint-related de ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health Lawmakers back four financing bills supporting entrepreneurs, primary education, maternal health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers DRC approves FGADEC, a national deposit-guarantee fund designed to protect eligible savings, . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll DRC plans to make salary inclusion a 2027 budget priority, aiming to progressively bring eligible . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure DRC plans more than $440 million in its 2027 budget for rural water, electricity and basic . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics DR.Congo DR.Congo Ireland Ireland DR Congo News DR Congo News Thérèse Kayikwamba Thérèse Kayikwamba DRC Politics DRC Politics

  • Kim Kardashian Linked to Lewis Hamilton Amid Dating Rumours

    Kim Kardashian is reportedly linked to Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton following claims of a private weekend getaway. According to the source article, Kim Kardashian is at the centre of fresh dating speculation after being linked to seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton Kanye West approved Kim Kardash… . The reality television star and businesswoman has reportedly spent a private weekend with Hamilton at a country club in Witney, Oxfordshire. Sources cited in the report claim the pair shared accommodations and were seen spending time together at spa and leisure facilities during the stay. Neither Kardashian nor Hamilton has publicly commented on the reports, and no official confirmation of a relationship has been made. Kardashian’s personal life has remained a topic of public interest since her high-profile divorce from rapper Kanye West, which was finalised in 2022 after nearly seven years of marriage. The former couple share four children: North, Saint, Chicago and Psalm. The report also notes that following their separation, Kardashian agreed to a personal boundary requested by West, which involved not dating other rappers. Sources suggested she respected this request in consideration of their children. In past interviews, Kardashian has spoken openly about challenges during her marriage, including feeling emotionally and financially insecure, as well as dealing with West’s unpredictable social media behaviour. Since the divorce, Kardashian has previously been linked to comedian Pete Davidson and NFL wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. As of now, the reported connection with Hamilton remains unconfirmed, with public interest continuing amid the lack of official statements from either party. Source : Geo News Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Kim Kardashian Linked to Lewis Hamilton Amid Dating Rumours By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 2, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: According to the source article, Kim Kardashian is at the centre of fresh dating speculation after being linked to seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton Kanye West approved Kim Kardash… . The reality television star and businesswoman has reportedly spent a private weekend with Hamilton at a country club in Witney, Oxfordshire. Sources cited in the report claim the pair shared accommodations and were seen spending time together at spa and leisure facilities during the stay. Neither Kardashian nor Hamilton has publicly commented on the reports, and no official confirmation of a relationship has been made. ADVERTISEMENT Kardashian’s personal life has remained a topic of public interest since her high-profile divorce from rapper Kanye West, which was finalised in 2022 after nearly seven years of marriage. The former couple share four children: North, Saint, Chicago and Psalm. The report also notes that following their separation, Kardashian agreed to a personal boundary requested by West, which involved not dating other rappers. Sources suggested she respected this request in consideration of their children. ADVERTISEMENT In past interviews, Kardashian has spoken openly about challenges during her marriage, including feeling emotionally and financially insecure, as well as dealing with West’s unpredictable social media behaviour. Since the divorce, Kardashian has previously been linked to comedian Pete Davidson and NFL wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. As of now, the reported connection with Hamilton remains unconfirmed, with public interest continuing amid the lack of official statements from either party. Trending Now Master P Faces Son Mercy Miller in College Basketball Clash . Entertainment Taylor Swift’s ‘End of an Era’ Docuseries Moves Fans to Tears . Entertainment Kim Kardashian Faces Setback as Mentor Discusses Bar Exam Effort . Entertainment U.S. Vows to Hold Rwanda, M23 Accountable for Congo War Crimes . Washington Peace Accord 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 : Geo News ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Hollywood Updates Zooey Deschanel Talks New Christmas Film and Holiday Legacy Deschanel discusses her new Christmas movie Merv and her long-standing festive music career . Hollywood Updates Diddy’s Mother Refutes Claims Raised in New Netflix Documentary Janice Combs disputes allegations about family history in Sean Combs: The Reckoning . Hollywood Updates Millie Bobby Brown Meets Burna Boy Ahead of TV Appearance Actress greets Nigerian star backstage before co-hosting the ‘Tonight Show’ . Musics Kendrick Lamar’s Scrapped ‘The Recipe’ Video Revealed on Podcast Producers explain why Kendrick Lamar and Dr. Dre’s planned lead video never made the final rollout. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

  • RuffTown CEO Says He Is Still Paying Ebony’s Debts

    RuffTown Records CEO Bullet says he is still paying debts taken to promote late Ghanaian singer Ebony during her early career. The Chief Executive Officer of RuffTown Records , Ricky Nana Agyemang , popularly known as Bullet , says he is still paying debts he incurred while promoting the late Ghanaian singer Priscilla Opoku-Kwarteng, known as Ebony . Speaking in an interview on March 7, 2026 , Bullet explained that many people assumed he made significant money while managing the singer. However, he said the reality was different, especially during the early stages of her career. According to him, the team earned very little from shows and music streaming while Ebony was building her reputation in the industry. “When she was alive, we didn’t make streams. We were not even earning much from the shows we were playing,” he said. Bullet also addressed accusations that surfaced after Ebony’s death suggesting he had misused the singer’s money. He questioned the basis of those claims. “When she died, a lot of things were said. They wanted to paint a picture of me misusing her funds. Which money exactly are they talking about?” he asked. He further denied reports claiming he had disputes with Ebony’s father over properties allegedly owned by the singer. “They were even saying I was fighting with Ebony’s dad over her properties. Which artist in Ghana here has acquired properties in two years,” he said. Bullet explained that he invested heavily in Ebony’s career before she achieved mainstream success, including taking loans to support her promotion. “They have no idea what I went through, but because she was everywhere, they thought things were smooth. I’m still paying debt till now, ” he added. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT RuffTown CEO Says He Is Still Paying Ebony’s Debts By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 11, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Chief Executive Officer of RuffTown Records , Ricky Nana Agyemang , popularly known as Bullet , says he is still paying debts he incurred while promoting the late Ghanaian singer Priscilla Opoku-Kwarteng, known as Ebony . Speaking in an interview on March 7, 2026 , Bullet explained that many people assumed he made significant money while managing the singer. However, he said the reality was different, especially during the early stages of her career. According to him, the team earned very little from shows and music streaming while Ebony was building her reputation in the industry. ADVERTISEMENT “When she was alive, we didn’t make streams. We were not even earning much from the shows we were playing,” he said. Bullet also addressed accusations that surfaced after Ebony’s death suggesting he had misused the singer’s money. He questioned the basis of those claims. “When she died, a lot of things were said. They wanted to paint a picture of me misusing her funds. Which money exactly are they talking about?” he asked. He further denied reports claiming he had disputes with Ebony’s father over properties allegedly owned by the singer. “They were even saying I was fighting with Ebony’s dad over her properties. Which artist in Ghana here has acquired properties in two years,” he said. ADVERTISEMENT Bullet explained that he invested heavily in Ebony’s career before she achieved mainstream success, including taking loans to support her promotion. “They have no idea what I went through, but because she was everywhere, they thought things were smooth. I’m still paying debt till now, ” he added. According to him, the financial sacrifices were necessary to help the singer gain visibility and establish her brand in the competitive Ghanaian music industry. 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 Ghana Report 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

  • Hadza Cosmology: Names, Spirits and Epeme Dance

    Explore Hadza cosmology through names, spirits, women’s ritual objects, sacred meat and the epeme night dance in Tanzania. Hadza cosmology is often misunderstood because it does not fit neatly into familiar categories of “religion.” The Hadza , who live around Lake Eyasi in northern Tanzania, do not have churches, priests, formal doctrines, or centralized religious institutions. Because of this, older descriptions sometimes treated Hadza spiritual life as minimal. The Broader view. Research by Thea Skaanes, published in Hunter Gatherer Research, shows that Hadza cosmology can be found in names, spirits, ritual objects, sacred meat, death practices, and the epeme night dance. Skaanes argues that the Hadza world contains “deep cosmological complexity” (Skaanes, 2015, p. 248). A later academic study also notes that “Hadza life is replete with ritual and cosmologic beliefs” (Stagnaro, Stibbard-Hawkes & Apicella, 2022, p. 4). This article explores Hadza cosmology through four connected ideas: names, spirits, objects, and the epeme dance. Who Are the Hadza? The Hadza are an Indigenous hunter-gatherer people of northern Tanzania. The University of Sheffield’s Hadza fieldsite places Hadza territory around Lake Eyasi in the Eastern Rift Valley. Their language, Hadzane, is often described as a linguistic isolate, although it contains click consonants. Hadza society is highly mobile and egalitarian. Camps are fluid, people move often, and food is widely shared. These social patterns matter because Hadza cosmology is not separated from daily life. It appears in how people are named, how meat is shared, how family ties are remembered, and how ritual knowledge is guarded. Names as Spiritual Power In many societies, a name identifies a person. In Skaanes’s Hadza research, a name does more than identify. It helps make a person spiritually complete. Skaanes writes directly: “Naming a child gives it a spirit” (Skaanes, 2015, p. 247). This is one of the most important findings in the dossier. According to her field interviews, a newborn child receives names from both the father’s and mother’s family lines. Each name links the child to a different set of relatives and spirits. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Hadza Cosmology: Names, Spirits and Epeme Dance By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 26, 2026 Jun 29, 2026 14 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Hadza cosmology is often misunderstood because it does not fit neatly into familiar categories of “religion.” The Hadza , who live around Lake Eyasi in northern Tanzania, do not have churches, priests, formal doctrines, or centralized religious institutions. Because of this, older descriptions sometimes treated Hadza spiritual life as minimal. Eyasi, Tanzania, with the wetlands and woodlands that have sustained the Hadza The Broader view. Research by Thea Skaanes, published in Hunter Gatherer Research, shows that Hadza cosmology can be found in names, spirits, ritual objects, sacred meat, death practices, and the epeme night dance. Skaanes argues that the Hadza world contains “deep cosmological complexity” (Skaanes, 2015, p. 248). A later academic study also notes that “Hadza life is replete with ritual and cosmologic beliefs” (Stagnaro, Stibbard-Hawkes & Apicella, 2022, p. 4). This article explores Hadza cosmology through four connected ideas: names, spirits, objects, and the epeme dance. Who Are the Hadza? The Hadza are an Indigenous hunter-gatherer people of northern Tanzania. The University of Sheffield’s Hadza fieldsite places Hadza territory around Lake Eyasi in the Eastern Rift Valley. Their language, Hadzane, is often described as a linguistic isolate, although it contains click consonants. A hunter from one of Africa's last hunter-gatherer communities, the Hadza Hadza society is highly mobile and egalitarian. Camps are fluid, people move often, and food is widely shared. These social patterns matter because Hadza cosmology is not separated from daily life. It appears in how people are named, how meat is shared, how family ties are remembered, and how ritual knowledge is guarded. Names as Spiritual Power In many societies, a name identifies a person. In Skaanes’s Hadza research, a name does more than identify. It helps make a person spiritually complete. Skaanes writes directly: “Naming a child gives it a spirit” (Skaanes, 2015, p. 247). This is one of the most important findings in the dossier. According to her field interviews, a newborn child receives names from both the father’s and mother’s family lines. Each name links the child to a different set of relatives and spirits. Names Unite Maternal and Paternal Lineages At birth, a Hadza child receives names that connect them to both the maternal and paternal families, This means a person is not spiritually isolated. A child is placed inside a family network through naming. Calling someone by a name can also call on one of the spirits connected to that name. Skaanes records that if a baby cries after being given a name, relatives may understand this as a sign that the name and spirit do not fit. The right name matters because it settles the child into kinship, memory, and spiritual protection. Spirits, Ancestors, and the Human Person Hadza ideas about spirit are not presented as one fixed doctrine. The sources warn that accounts vary, and some ritual knowledge is not openly shared. Still, Skaanes’s research shows that spirit is central to understanding Hadza personhood. A human being is not only a body. A person may carry spirits connected to names, relatives, and forebears. Skaanes records that spirits may guard a person and help protect them in the bush. She writes, “The spirits are vigilant” (Skaanes, 2015, p. 262). ADVERTISEMENT This view also appears in death practices. Skaanes describes the shadow as connected to the spirit’s strength, even calling it the “food of the spirit” (Skaanes, 2015, p. 262). In her account, burial orientation matters because the spirit may return to collect the shadow. This challenges older summaries that suggested the Hadza had no clear belief in an afterlife. A safer reading is that Hadza beliefs about death and spirit are complex, unevenly disclosed, and not always easy for outsiders to categorize. Women’s Ritual Objects One of Skaanes’s strongest contributions is her focus on women’s ritual objects. She studies three objects: the naricanda stick, the a’untenakwete/a’untenakwiko gourd, and the olanakwete/olanakwiko doll. A household vessel( a’untenakwete / a’untenakwiko ritual gourd), it is associated with naming rituals, fertility, kinship, and spiritual identity within Hadza cosmology. (Based on Skaanes, 2015). These are not ordinary possessions. Skaanes treats them as power objects because they connect women to names, spirits, reproduction, death, and ritual performance. The Naricanda Stick The naricanda is a decorated stick connected to a woman’s name. It may be made for a baby girl during naming and can later be inherited when the name of a deceased woman is passed to a younger relative. Thea Skaanes, the naricanda symbolizes spiritual identity and can play a role in rituals linking names, ancestors, and family continuity within Hadza cosmology. (Based on Skaanes, 2015) This makes the naricanda more than a physical object. It materializes a name. Since names carry spirit, the stick becomes tied to memory, kinship, and ritual identity. During epeme ritual, men may invoke female relatives through such objects. The object itself may remain hidden in the hut, but its ritual presence is still active through naming and performance. The Ritual Gourd The a’untenakwete or a’untenakwiko gourd stores clarified animal fat used in ritual contexts. Skaanes explains that this fat is not ordinary cooking fat. It is used in ceremonies and may be applied to initiates or used as medicine. 1 Hadza girls' initiation played out ritually and mythically as a battle of the sexes. (Photo: Camilla Power) The gourd can be linked to the woman herself. In ritual logic, it can stand for her presence, her power, and her relationship to family spirits. This is important because Hadza cosmology is not only spoken. It is carried through objects, substances, bodies, and ritual actions. The Doll and Future Children The olanakwete or olanakwiko doll is also spiritually important. It is not simply a toy. Skaanes describes it as connected to future motherhood and reproduction. A young woman may care for the doll like a child, and the doll may receive a name. ADVERTISEMENT If the doll breaks, it may require burial because it carries spirit. If a woman later gives birth to a child of the same sex, the child may receive the doll’s name. In this way, the doll and child can merge into one ritual identity. This shows how Hadza cosmology links past, present, and future generations through names and objects. What Is Epeme? Epeme is difficult to translate because it means several things at once. It refers to initiated men, sacred meat, ritual knowledge, and a night dance. Skaanes’s clearest statement is simple: “Epeme is meat” (Skaanes, 2015, p. 261).That does not mean epeme is only meat. It means meat is not only food. Among the Hadza, certain fatty parts of hunted animals are restricted to initiated epeme men. Fitzpatrick describes this as “sacred epeme meat for men” (Fitzpatrick, 2018, p. 16). These restrictions are surrounded by taboo and secrecy. Skaanes pushes the point further. She concludes: “Meat is cosmology” (Skaanes, 2015, p. 266). In other words, the sharing, restricting, eating, and ritual handling of meat connects social life to spiritual order. The Epeme Night Dance The epeme dance happens on moonless nights. Fires are put out, and the dance takes place in darkness. Initiated men dance one at a time while women sing, clap, and support the performance. The University of Sheffield fieldsite describes epeme as one of the strongest Hadza ritual complexes, connected to both dance and special meat portions. Skaanes adds that the dance is about unity, balance, healing, and restoring family ties. During the dance, an epeme man may dance in his own name or in the name of a junior relative. When dancing for female relatives, he may invoke women through ritual objects such as the naricanda or gourd. Through this act, the dancer can become a vessel for the spirit of the named person. Young Hadza men prepare traditional musical instruments and ceremonial attire used during community rituals. Music, rhythm, and dance especially the epeme night dance play an important role in expressing kinship, cultural identity, and the Hadza's living cosmological traditions. The dance is therefore not entertainment alone. It is a ritual of names, family, gender, meat, spirits, and memory. Gender and Ritual Balance Hadza ritual life is strongly gendered. Fitzpatrick writes, “Rituals, too, are marked by sexual division” (Fitzpatrick, 2018, p. 16). Epeme is associated with initiated men, restricted meat, and night dancing. Maitoko, by contrast, is a girls’ puberty initiation ritual. Camilla Power’s article on Hadza gender rituals treats epeme and maitoko as counterparts. Still, the Hadza ritual life is organized through gendered responsibilities and forms of ritual knowledge. 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 Travel and Immigration Barrick Confirms Tanzania’s 15-Year North Mara Mining Licence Renewal . Travel Guide Stone Town Travel Guide: History, Food and a Walking Route . Travel Guide Mafia Island Travel Guide: Diving, Whale Sharks and When to Go . African Culture Nyerere vs Ruaha: Choosing a Southern Tanzania Safari . African Culture Tanzania Visa and Entry Requirements: What Travellers Need . ADVERTISEMENT This gendered structure should not be reduced to male dominance. Women are essential to epeme performance because they sing, support the dancer, and are ritually invoked through names and objects. Modern Change and Religious Contact Hadza cosmology is also changing in modern contexts. Missionaries, tourism, markets, schools, and neighboring communities have affected some Hadza camps more than others. Responsible cultural tourism offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Hadza hunting skills, survival techniques, and one of Africa's oldest living hunter-gatherer traditions through respectful community-led experiences. Photo credit: © Desert Island Survival A Durham repository paper on Hadza religion and cooperation notes that the Hadza historically had “minimal exposure to markets or major world religions” (Stagnaro, Stibbard-Hawkes & Apicella, 2022, p. 1). But that exposure has increased. The same study found that missionary contact was associated with greater belief in a knowledgeable and punitive deity. This does not mean older Hadza cosmology should be explained as Christianity in another form. It means modern religious change must be separated from older or locally rooted ritual practices. Haine, Ishoko, sun, moon, stars, ancestors, and mountain spirits appear in different accounts, but the evidence is not uniform enough to make broad claims for all Hadza people. Common Misconceptions One common misconception is that the Hadza have no religion. A better statement is that the Hadza do not have formal religious institutions like churches, priests, or written doctrine, but they do have cosmological beliefs and ritual practices. Another misconception is that epeme is just a dance. The evidence shows that epeme is also sacred meat, initiation, secrecy, gendered knowledge, and spiritual performance. A third misconception is that Hadza objects are only practical tools. Skaanes’s work shows that some objects are spiritually powerful and connected to names, women, children, spirits, and death. Conclusion Hadza cosmology is not best understood as a formal religion with fixed doctrines. It is better understood through relationships: between names and spirits, women and objects, meat and ritual, the living and the dead, men and women, darkness and dance. The epeme dance brings many of these relationships together. In the dark, names are called, spirits are invoked, women sing, initiated men dance, and sacred meat stands behind the ritual order. For the Hadza, cosmology is not distant from everyday life. It lives in the body, the name, the object, the family, and the shared meal. Reference Thea Skaanes, “Notes on Hadza cosmology : epeme, objects and rituals” University of Sheffield Hadza fieldsit e Stagnaro, Stibbard-Hawkes & Apicella (2022, pp. 1–5) : Modern religious variation, missionary exposure, and debates over Hadza belief in moralizing gods. Fitzpatrick (2018, pp. 16, 117) : Gendered ritual context, sacred epeme meat , and maitoko as girls’ puberty initiation. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Travel and Immigration Barrick Confirms Tanzania’s 15-Year North Mara Mining Licence Renewal The renewal supports long-term planning, but no new investment or hiring target has been announced. . Travel Guide Stone Town Travel Guide: History, Food and a Walking Route Stone Town occupies the western side of Unguja, the main island in the Zanzibar archipelago . Travel Guide Mafia Island Travel Guide: Diving, Whale Sharks and When to Go Plan Mafia Island by coast and season, with diving, whale sharks, transport, fees and places to stay. . African Culture Nyerere vs Ruaha: Choosing a Southern Tanzania Safari Compare wildlife, activities, access and costs before choosing Tanzania’s southern safari park. . Tags Visit Tanzania Visit Tanzania Tanzania Tanzania The Hadza Tribe The Hadza Tribe

  • Congo army plans next phase in FDLR disarmament push

    Congo has launched a new FDLR disarmament phase as Kinshasa and Kigali face pressure to implement peace commitments. The Congolese army says it has begun a new phase of operations aimed at disarming the FDLR, with officials presenting the move as part of the next steps under the Reuters-reported peace track between Kinshasa and Kigali. Congolese military authorities said the initial stage would prioritize surrender and reception measures before any wider coercive action. According to the announcement, a reception site has been prepared in Kisangani for combatants who hand over their weapons, as FARDC signals that the process will begin with persuasion rather than immediate battlefield escalation. The stated objective is to open a disarmament channel while avoiding further bloodshed, even as tensions remain high across eastern Congo . The move also lands in a wider regional dispute in which Rwanda has long demanded action against the FDLR, while Congo continues to accuse Kigali of backing M23. Earlier this month, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned the Rwanda Defence Force and four senior officials, saying the RDF was supporting and fighting alongside M23 in eastern Congo. That means the next phase is about more than one armed group. It is now tied to whether both sides can show movement on their security commitments while clashes and mistrust persist. The United Nations has meanwhile warned that renewed M23 offensives have intensified instability in eastern Congo and complicated efforts to steady the region. In that context, Congo’s latest announcement points to an effort to translate diplomatic promises into visible security action on the ground. Whether the process produces sustained demobilization, however, will likely depend on parallel progress in the broader Congo-Rwanda crisis, including the still-disputed issue of cross-border armed support and the fragile implementation of earlier peace understandings. Continue Reading Full Article DRC PEACE EFFORT Congo army plans next phase in FDLR disarmament push By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Mar 31, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Congolese army says it has begun a new phase of operations aimed at disarming the FDLR, with officials presenting the move as part of the next steps under the Reuters-reported peace track between Kinshasa and Kigali. Congolese military authorities said the initial stage would prioritize surrender and reception measures before any wider coercive action. According to the announcement, a reception site has been prepared in Kisangani for combatants who hand over their weapons, as FARDC signals that the process will begin with persuasion rather than immediate battlefield escalation. ADVERTISEMENT The stated objective is to open a disarmament channel while avoiding further bloodshed, even as tensions remain high across eastern Congo . The move also lands in a wider regional dispute in which Rwanda has long demanded action against the FDLR, while Congo continues to accuse Kigali of backing M23. Earlier this month, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned the Rwanda Defence Force and four senior officials, saying the RDF was supporting and fighting alongside M23 in eastern Congo. ADVERTISEMENT That means the next phase is about more than one armed group. It is now tied to whether both sides can show movement on their security commitments while clashes and mistrust persist. The United Nations has meanwhile warned that renewed M23 offensives have intensified instability in eastern Congo and complicated efforts to steady the region. 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 In that context, Congo’s latest announcement points to an effort to translate diplomatic promises into visible security action on the ground. Whether the process produces sustained demobilization, however, will likely depend on parallel progress in the broader Congo-Rwanda crisis, including the still-disputed issue of cross-border armed support and the fragile implementation of earlier peace understandings. 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 Rwanda Rwanda Wazalendo DRC Wazalendo DRC African Union African Union DR Congo Rising DR Congo Rising Felix Tshisekedi Felix Tshisekedi DR Congo News DR Congo News

  • KAMPALA : The Ugandan shilling remains stable, with anticipated support from increased dollar inflows stemming from remittances, commodity exports, and foreign investments. As of now, the currency is trading at 3,870/3,880, showing minimal change from the previous day's close of 3,875/3,885. The market eyes potential upliftment from the inflow of dollars, especially with the Bank of Uganda's announcement to auction Treasury bonds totaling 520 billion shillings ($134.37 million) in both 20-year and 3-year categories. Such government securities sales are pivotal, as they not only aid in financing national projects but also influence the local currency's stability. An increase in Treasury bond sales can attract foreign investment, leading to a stronger shilling due to the influx of foreign currency. Investors and traders are closely monitoring these developments, predicting a positive impact on the Ugandan shilling's performance in the coming days. The outcome of the Treasury bonds auction, along with the sustained inflow of dollars, is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the currency's trajectory . Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 21, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: uganda shillings notes KAMPALA : The Ugandan shilling remains stable, with anticipated support from increased dollar inflows stemming from remittances, commodity exports, and foreign investments. As of now, the currency is trading at 3,870/3,880, showing minimal change from the previous day's close of 3,875/3,885. The market eyes potential upliftment from the inflow of dollars, especially with the Bank of Uganda's announcement to auction Treasury bonds totaling 520 billion shillings ($134.37 million) in both 20-year and 3-year categories. ADVERTISEMENT Such government securities sales are pivotal, as they not only aid in financing national projects but also influence the local currency's stability. An increase in Treasury bond sales can attract foreign investment, leading to a stronger shilling due to the influx of foreign currency. Investors and traders are closely monitoring these developments, predicting a positive impact on the Ugandan shilling's performance in the coming days. The outcome of the Treasury bonds auction, along with the sustained inflow of dollars, is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the currency's trajectory . ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

  • Wizkid Reacts to Burna Boy, DJ Tunez Clash

    Wizkid reacts to Burna Boy and DJ Tunez clash as Nigerian DJs consider sanctions after Lagos altercation. Nigerian music star Wizkid has reacted to the recent altercation involving Burna Boy and DJ Tunez, adding to the growing controversy within the entertainment industry. The incident reportedly took place at Obi’s House in Lagos, where a confrontation between Burna Boy and DJ Tunez, popularly known as Ogbafia, escalated from a verbal exchange into a physical clash. Following the development, Wizkid took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to comment on the situation. In his post, he appeared to criticise Burna Boy, making indirect remarks that many observers linked to the clash. Earlier, Burna Boy had shared a video of himself dancing to his song Money Constant , altering the lyrics in a manner widely interpreted as mocking DJ Tunez after the incident. In response, the Nigerian DJ Association announced a temporary ban on Burna Boy’s songs, stating that the action would remain pending the outcome of an investigation into the altercation. The situation has since drawn attention across the music industry, with fans and stakeholders monitoring potential implications for the artists involved. Source: The Sun Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Wizkid Reacts to Burna Boy, DJ Tunez Clash By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Apr 8, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian music star Wizkid has reacted to the recent altercation involving Burna Boy and DJ Tunez, adding to the growing controversy within the entertainment industry. The incident reportedly took place at Obi’s House in Lagos, where a confrontation between Burna Boy and DJ Tunez, popularly known as Ogbafia, escalated from a verbal exchange into a physical clash. Following the development, Wizkid took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to comment on the situation. In his post, he appeared to criticise Burna Boy, making indirect remarks that many observers linked to the clash. ADVERTISEMENT Earlier, Burna Boy had shared a video of himself dancing to his song Money Constant , altering the lyrics in a manner widely interpreted as mocking DJ Tunez after the incident. In response, the Nigerian DJ Association announced a temporary ban on Burna Boy’s songs, stating that the action would remain pending the outcome of an investigation into the altercation. ADVERTISEMENT The situation has since drawn attention across the music industry, with fans and stakeholders monitoring potential implications for the artists involved. Source: The Sun Nigeria Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

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