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Rwanda Refuses to Reimburse $300 Million from UK Deportation Deal Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 10, 2024 Rwandan President Paul Kagame and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the center of the controversial deportation deal dispute Rwanda Hints It Won’t Reimburse $300 Million UK Paid for Deportation Deal After New British PM Says He’ll Ditch Agreement The Rwandan government has indicated that it will not reimburse the more than $300 million received from the United Kingdom since 2022 for a contentious deal to deport asylum seekers deemed to have arrived illegally in the UK to Rwanda. A spokesperson for the Rwandan government, Alain Mukuralinda, stated on Tuesday that the agreement with the UK did not include any “clause regarding reimbursement” following the newly-elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s announcement to scrap the controversial agreement. Mukuralinda emphasized in a video posted by the state-owned Rwanda Broadcasting Agency that the signed international agreement did not stipulate the money would be refunded. CNN has reached out to the UK Home Office for comments on the matter . The UK has given Rwanda £240 million (around $307 million) as part of the deal, according to a fact sheet published by the British government in April this year. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during his first press conference on Saturday, labeled the scheme a “gimmick” and stated he was “not prepared to continue” with it, denying that the bill served as an effective deterrent. Initially announced in April 2022 by the then Conservative government under Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the plan faced numerous political and legal challenges, with lawmakers and activists condemning it on human rights grounds. Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defended the plan, claiming it aimed to deter vulnerable migrants from making perilous crossings and to disrupt the business model of criminal gangs exploiting them. The bill was heavily criticized by UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi, who argued that it undermined international cooperation and set a worrying global precedent by shifting responsibility for refugee protection. Amnesty International UK also condemned the plan, calling it a “stain on this country’s moral reputation” that undermined international legal protections for vulnerable people. Rwanda’s refusal to reimburse the funds raises ethical concerns about the country’s commitment to international agreements and the exploitation of such deals for financial gain. The lack of a reimbursement clause in the agreement further complicates the issue, highlighting potential oversight or negligence during the negotiation process. As the UK reevaluates its stance on this controversial deal, Rwanda’s rigid position casts a shadow over its diplomatic relations and accountability on the international stage. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

NBA to Launch First Basketball School in Africa in January 2025 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Jun 24, 2024 Young athletes practice their skills at a Jr. NBA event, highlighting the upcoming launch of the first NBA Basketball School in Africa, set to open in January 2025 at Uppingham School Cairo in New Giza. Credit:gettyimages NBA Africa and New Era Education, a Cairo-based educational services and school management company, have announced the launch of the first NBA Basketball School in Africa. Set to open in January 2025, the school will be located at Uppingham School Cairo in New Giza. The initiative aims to train young basketball prospects and promote the sport across the continent. Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League, reiterated the NBA's commitment to nurturing African talent during his visit to France for the Quai 54 streetball tournament. "We want to continue to develop top talents on the continent through partnerships like the NBA Academy and our Elevate program, which is producing elite talent," Fall stated. He emphasized the importance of building value in African talent and retaining some of it within the continent. "We want Africa to be recognized not only as a place where talent is discovered but also where it is cultivated and appreciated," he added. The NBA Basketball School at Uppingham School Cairo will cater to youth aged 5-18, building on the league’s previous initiatives in Cairo, including the last three Basketball Africa League Nile Conference group phases and Jr. NBA programs. Since 2017, NBA Basketball Schools have been established in various countries, including Australia, Brazil, China, the Dominican Republic, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Lithuania, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, and Uruguay. NBA Africa, an affiliate of the US National Basketball Association (NBA), continues to expand its footprint on the continent, aiming to inspire and develop the next generation of basketball players . More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Unveiling the Shadows of Conflict: The Role of RDF in Supporting M23 and the Formation of Wazalendo in the DRC Crisis - Download the January 2024 UN Report for In-depth Insights Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Erin Brewer Jan 3, 2024 ​ The UN report delves into the complex situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), focusing on the M23 rebel group and the alleged support it receives from the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF). It details the sources of information for these claims, including aerial images and testimonials. The report also addresses Rwanda's alleged involvement in the conflict, the role of the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda), and the formation of the Wazalendo coalition and Volontaires pour la défense de la Patrie (VDP) to combat the M23 rebels. For a comprehensive understanding and in-depth analysis of these significant issues, it is recommended to download and read the full report here . N2336438 .pdf Download PDF • 8.83MB More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Burna Boy Secures Spot on Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 17, 2024 ​ Burna Boy Featured Among Icons in Time Magazine's 2024 List of 100 Most Influential Individuals. Photo:GettyImages Angelique Kidjo, the multi-Grammy-winning songstress, has authored a heartfelt homage to fellow musician Burna Boy, following his inclusion in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2024. The esteemed Beninese artist lauded the Nigerian Afro-fusion sensation, recognizing him as an artist who has carved out a historical legacy and serves as an inspiration for Africa’s youth. In her tribute, Kidjo reflected on her advice to young African artists, urging them to embrace the richness of African traditions instead of emulating American artists. She noted the global influence of African music, calling it an unfailing source of inspiration with the power to captivate the world. Burna Boy, according to Kidjo, has actualized this vision on the global stage. Drawing inspiration from the powerful rhythms of Nigerian folk music and honing his craft in the tradition of Africa’s great singer-songwriters, he walks in the giant strides of Fela Kuti, the iconic Afrobeats pioneer and activist. Kidjo highlighted Burna Boy's unique style and rhythmic groove, which have led him to a succession of groundbreaking achievements. In 2023, he was the first African artist to headline and sell out a stadium show in the United States. In 2024, he became the first Afrobeats performer to take the stage at the Grammy Awards. Burna Boy's influence extends beyond music, as he stands as a historical figure shaping a new generation of African youth. Since his international breakthrough in 2018, Burna Boy has emerged as one of the world’s leading musicians. His 2019 Grammy-nominated album 'African Giant' included a collaboration with Kidjo and Damian Marley on the track 'Different'. Furthermore, Kidjo and Burna Boy joined forces on her Grammy-nominated song 'Do Yourself' in 2021. Out of a diverse list of luminaries, Burna Boy stands as the sole African artist named in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2024, signifying his remarkable impact on music and culture. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Kenyan Diaspora Remittances Soar by 19% in Q1 2024 Amid Easing Global Inflation Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 17, 2024 ​ The increased remittances have played a crucial role in stabilizing the Kenyan shilling by bolstering the supply side of the dollar In a significant economic development, Kenyan diaspora remittances have witnessed a robust increase of 19% in the first quarter of 2024. According to recent data from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), Kenyans residing overseas have sent home an impressive $1.2 billion (Ksh158 billion) during this period, largely influenced by the easing inflationary pressures in developed economies. The surge in remittances marks a notable uplift from the $1.02 billion (Ksh133.6 billion) recorded in the first quarter of 2023. The January 2024 remittances reached an all-time monthly high of $412.4 million (Ksh53.8 billion), setting a strong pace for the quarter. This was closely followed by $407.8 million (Ksh53.2 billion) in March and $385.9 million (Ksh50.3 billion) in February. These increased remittances have played a crucial role in stabilizing the Kenyan shilling by bolstering the supply side of the dollar. This economic influx has proven essential in counteracting the demand pressures from importers, who require substantial dollar reserves to facilitate their transactions. The United States continues to be the primary source of these remittances, contributing 56% of the total in March 2024 alone—a significant increase from the 54% recorded in the preceding months. This contribution underscores the pivotal role of the Kenyan diaspora in the US in supporting the Kenyan economy. The first quarter of 2024 has set a promising tone for Kenya’s economic interactions with its diaspora, highlighting the critical role of remittances in the national economy. As global economic conditions continue to stabilize, the inflow of remittances is expected to maintain its upward trajectory, providing a vital buffer against external economic shocks. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

President Akufo-Addo Lauds IMF Support Amid Positive Shifts Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 18, 2024 ​ IMF boss to meet Akufo-Addo Ghana's partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), initiated in July 2022, has borne fruit, marking a significant turnaround in the nation's economic fortunes. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in discussions with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, highlighted the positive outcomes of this collaboration, including a steady decline in inflation, reduced interest rates, and a stable currency. These indicators not only reflect the current state of economic stability but also lay a strong foundation for sustained growth and prosperity. The collaboration is anchored in a three-year plan under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), totaling approximately US$3 billion, aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, achieving debt sustainability, and fostering an inclusive economic recovery. The plan encompasses fiscal consolidation, inflation control, and the implementation of structural reforms to enhance the economy's resilience to external shocks and internal vulnerabilities. President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to the agreed reforms, stressing the importance of steady progress towards the overarching goal of rapid development and prosperity for its citizens. He praised the IMF for its understanding and support, emphasizing Ghana's unique journey as a trailblazer in Africa's post-colonial development narrative. Meanwhile, Georgieva commended the Ghanaian government for its swift progress in debt restructuring, reflecting the productive nature of the Ghana-IMF partnership. In a related event highlighting Ghana's forward-looking stance, the country hosted an AI conference in collaboration with the IMF, themed "AI as a Catalyst to Transform Economies in Sub-Saharan Africa." This gathering underscores Ghana's commitment to leveraging technological innovations to drive economic transformation, showcasing its role as a model for resilience and innovation in the region. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

M23 is an empty shell the real criminal is Paul Kagame Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 1, 2024 ​ Felix Tshisekedi President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo During a candid interview with Deutsche Welle in Germany, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) voiced strong accusations against Rwanda, highlighting a long-standing issue of illegal mineral exploitation that has plagued his country. President Tshisekedi accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebel group, a claim supported by United Nations reports, and contributing to ongoing instability in eastern DRC. He described Rwanda's involvement as a façade for plundering DRC’s vast mineral wealth, which includes crucial elements like cobalt and coltan, essential for modern technology. The DRC leader’s narrative pointedly criticizes Paul Kagame, Rwanda’s president, labeling him the orchestrator behind the exploitation and violence in the region. Tshisekedi’s resolve is evident as he expresses a desire for a direct confrontation with Kagame to hold him accountable, dismissing any dialogue with the M23 as they are, in his view, merely a proxy for Rwandan interests. Tshisekedi said "M23 is an empty shell made to justify the aggression against my country But in reality, the real aggressor and the real criminal is Paul Kagame,I want to meet him not to beg him or to negotiate anything with him but to tell him clearly with my own eyes that he's a criminal that his dirty game is now known to everyone" President Tshisekedi's call for accountability extends to the international community, urging a reassessment of Rwanda's so-called development miracle. attributing its growth to the unauthorized extraction of Congolese resources rather than effective governance. The President's accusations extend beyond Apple, hinting at a broader network of complicity in the exploitation of the DRC's resources, which he insists is facilitated by international NGOs and benefits Rwanda economically. Tshisekedi's government has recently accused tech giant Apple of using minerals sourced from illegal exploitation, alleging that these minerals are smuggled through Rwanda, financing armed groups and perpetuating violence in eastern DRC. This situation is not new; it has been a destructive cycle for over thirty years, stemming from the influx of armed refugees from Rwanda in the 1990s. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou:"Joshua's Second-Round Thunderous Knockout win at Riyadh Showdown Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 9, 2024 ​ An explosive right hand sent Ngannou reeling, leading to the referee's Intervention and calling an end to the contest at the showdown In an electrifying bout in Saudi Arabia, British heavyweight Anthony Joshua delivered a stunning performance, securing a second-round knockout victory against former UFC champion Francis Ngannou. The match, highly anticipated by fans worldwide, saw Joshua, at 34, showcase his prowess and strategic acumen, reaffirming his status in the heavyweight division. From the onset, Joshua's intent was clear. He floored Ngannou in the initial round and continued his dominance into the second. An explosive right hand sent Ngannou reeling, leading to the referee intervening and calling an end to the contest. Ngannou, 37, visibly shaken by the power of Joshua's punch, required medical attention post-fall, highlighting the match's intensity. Joshua's victory was witnessed by none other than WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, adding a layer of intrigue given Fury's previous challenging encounter with Ngannou. Joshua's post-fight remarks hinted at respect for Ngannou's capabilities and an openness to future challenges within the boxing domain, further fueling speculations abou t potential matchups . This win marks Joshua's fourth victory in 11 months, a testament to his relentless pursuit of reclaiming a world title. The event also drew attention to the promotional prowess of Eddie Hearn, who has been instrumental in Joshua's career. Hearn's post-fight comments suggest ambitious plans for Joshua, eyeing a matchup with the winner of the forthcoming bout between Fury and Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight championship. The fight not only showcased Joshua's technical growth as a boxer but also highlighted his mental preparation and strategic planning. His ability to maintain composure under pressure and execute a game plan flawlessly was evident from the first bell. The knockout serves as a powerful statement in the heavyweight division and sets the stage for intriguing future contests. As Joshua looks ahead, the boxing world watches with bated breath for his next move. With potential high-stakes matches on the horizon, Joshua's career trajectory remains a focal point for fans and analysts alike, promising more thrilling encounters in the ring. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Rescue Efforts Halted After Building Collapse in South Africa Leaves 33 Dead Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 18, 2024 ​ Rescue team attempting to get people who could still be stuck under debris Rescue efforts have been halted in the South African city of George after a devastating building collapse claimed 33 lives. For 11 days, rescue personnel and volunteers tirelessly combed through the rubble of the five-storey residential building that crumbled during construction, creating a massive cloud of dust. The Western Cape government now estimates that 62 people were present at the site during the disaster, with 29 individuals surviving after being rescued. Initially, municipal officials believed that 81 people might have been on-site when the building came down. Anton Bredell, a Western Cape provincial official, announced, "The site is empty. We have done our job." The tragedy has affected a diverse group, including migrants from neighboring Malawi and Zimbabwe, alongside South African workers. The Malawian foreign affairs ministry confirmed that nine Malawian nationals died in the incident, with 11 rescued. Of those rescued, two remain hospitalized. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the collapse. President Cyril Ramaphosa visited the site on Thursday, meeting with the families of the victims to offer his condolences and support. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

South Africa Election could Mark the End of ANC Dominance Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 1, 2024 The Electoral Commission of South Africa, in Midrand, South Africa, May 31, 2024 The Electoral Commission of South Africa, in Midrand, South Africa, May 31, 2024 South Africa is poised to end three decades of African National Congress (ANC) dominance, as voters express dissatisfaction with unemployment, inequality, and power shortages. The ANC's share of the vote has dropped to 40%, down from 57.5% in the 2019 parliamentary election. With 98% of polling stations reporting, the ANC has secured 40.15% of the vote. The main opposition, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has 21.71%, while the newly formed uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), led by former President Jacob Zuma, holds 14.76%. This dramatic decline means the ANC must now form a coalition to retain power, an unprecedented situation for the party that ended apartheid in 1994. MK’s strong performance, particularly in Zuma’s home province of KwaZulu-Natal, is a significant factor in the ANC's failure to secure a majority. The allocation of parliamentary seats, which will determine the presidency, is uncertain . President Cyril Ramaphosa remains a potential leader, with the ANC likely to receive about twice as many votes as the next party. However, his position is weakened, and he may face calls to step down from both opposition parties and internal critics. Despite this, a top ANC official expressed support for Ramaphosa's continued leadership on Friday. Analysts suggest there is no clear successor. A coalition deal might see the ANC retain the presidency in exchange for opposition control over certain cabinet posts or parliamentary roles. The election commission plans to announce the final results on Sunday. Investors in Africa’s most industrialized economy are eager for a swift resolution to the political uncertainty. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

French President Emmanuel Macron Roots for Kylian Mbappe's Inclusion in Paris Olympics Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 13, 2024 ​ Qatar World Cup 2022, Emmanuel Macron, Kylian Mbappe, France Football In a recent statement, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his hopes for soccer sensation Kylian Mbappe to represent France at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. This comes in the wake of Mbappe's announcement that he will be leaving Paris Saint-Germain, amidst widespread speculation about his potential transfer to Real Madrid. "Beyond the anticipation of his club transfer, I am keenly hopeful that Real Madrid will allow Kylian the opportunity to join the French squad at the Olympics," Macron mentioned in a video on his X account. This public endorsement highlights the national importance of Mbappe's participation, not just as a sports figure but as a national icon. Kylian Mbappe, 25, has already marked his prowess on the international stage, notably scoring in the 2018 World Cup final which secured France the championship against Croatia. His performance there and in subsequent matches has cemented his status as one of football's premier talents. As the Paris Olympic Games approach, all eyes will be on Mbappe’s next moves—both on and off the field. The involvement of a high-profile athlete like Mbappe could significantly boost the host country's morale and global standing in the sport. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Kylian Mbappe Joins Real Madrid: Official Signing Confirmed Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 2, 2024 ​ Mbappé celebrates scoring for PSG against RC Lens last year In a landmark transfer, Kylian Mbappe has officially signed with Real Madrid. The 25-year-old superstar, who recently became a free agent after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired, is set to bring his talents to the reigning European champions. Mbappe's move to Los Blancos comes on the heels of their 15th Champions League title win, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in European football. The French forward is expected to be unveiled this week, marking a new era for the club. Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news , tweeting: "Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid, HERE WE GO! Every document has been signed, sealed, and completed." Romano also revealed that Mbappe made his decision in February, indicating a long-term plan to join the Spanish giants. Stay tuned for the official announcement from Real Madrid, welcoming Mbappe as their latest star signing. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024