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Diamond Platnumz's Secret Wedding and Unseen Family Escapades - Exclusive Insider Details! Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Michelle Hayes Jan 11, 2024 ​ File image of Wasafi records boss Diamond Platnumz and his signee Zuchu. PHOTO | COURTESY The Iconic Tanzanian Artist's Latest Endeavors XtrAfrica - Diamond Platnumz, a name synonymous with African music's pulsating rhythms and captivating melodies, has been making waves both in his professional and personal life. Known for his energetic performances and chart-topping hits, Platnumz has been a topic of much discussion among young music enthusiasts across the continent and beyond. [""] Marriage Speculations and Musical Partnerships Recent reports suggest a possible secret union between Diamond Platnumz and Zuchu, a rising star under his record label, WCB Wasafi. Although the couple has remained mum on the matter, comments from close sources, including Platnumz's cousin, hint at a Muslim wedding ceremony in Dar es Salaam. This development has sparked curiosity and excitement among fans, who are keen to follow the personal lives of these music giants. ["] ["] Family Time: A Holiday in Zanzibar Amidst his bustling career, Platnumz hasn't forgotten the importance of family. He recently whisked his three children - Tiffah, Nillan, and Naseeb - away on a private jet for a holiday in Zanzibar. This trip was a blend of festive cheer and family bonding, showcasing Platnumz's role as a doting father. Interestingly, Zuchu was noted for her absence during this family time, adding another layer to the ongoing speculations about their relationship​. ["] Tanasha Donna: A Continued Connection The dynamics between Platnumz and his Kenyan baby mama, Tanasha Donna, continue to intrigue fans. While the nature of their current relationship remains unclear, Donna's presence in Tanzania and interactions with Platnumz's family have been a hot topic. She has been seen driving a Land Cruiser previously gifted to her by Platnumz, suggesting amicable ties. A Starlit Performance at Amaan Stadium On the professional front, Platnumz was the highlight at the inauguration of the refurbished Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar. His performance at this significant event, attended by the President of Zanzibar, further cemented his status as a leading figure in the African music scene. Defending Love: A Public Confrontation In a recent and bold move, Platnumz publicly confronted a man trying to contact Zuchu. By exposing the man's messages, Platnumz and Zuchu demonstrated their determination to protect their relationship from external threats. This action was met with mixed reactions from fans, reflecting the couple's influence and the public's interest in their love life. Promising a Thrill: Stage Dive in Nairobi In true Diamond Platnumz fashion, he promised a stage dive during a concert in Nairobi, part of the Tusker Oktoberfest. This daring act is anticipated to be a crowd-puller, reflecting Platnumz's vibrant and engaging performance style. As Diamond Platnumz continues to juggle his flourishing career with his role as a family man, his life remains a source of fascination and inspiration for young people. Stay tuned to [Your Website Name] for more updates on this dynamic artist's journey through music and life. 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

Media Forensics Continues Unveiling the Twitter Propaganda Machine: 464 Accounts Identified in Digital Deception Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Jun 24, 2024 Rwandan Spokesperson Yolanda Makolo and her boss Paul Kagame as powerhouse for their own media propagandists Recent investigations have uncovered a sophisticated network of 464 accounts on X/Twitter, orchestrating a coordinated influence operation (CIO). Researchers meticulously inspected the social media information environment across various platforms, focusing on narratives likely targeted for manipulation. The study revealed distinct clusters of accounts, highlighting key participants and potential opinion leaders. Key Findings Clusters of Influence The investigation identified two primary clusters: Pro-Rwanda Cluster : A smaller, tightly-knit group of highly active pro-Rwanda accounts, including influencers [ @FelixMugenzi ] and [ @BahoNtaganira ] This cluster aimed to undermine the credibility of Forbidden Stories, a collective of journalists. Forbidden Stories Cluster : A larger, more diffuse cluster containing Forbidden Stories (@FbdnStories) and several affiliated journalists, such as @SamuelBaker_B. This group promoted the investigative reporting by Forbidden Stories. Criteria for Identifying Accounts Researchers used stringent criteria to identify accounts involved in the campaign: Shared either # RwandaClassified or # RPFonTop between May 13 and May 31, 2024. Used at least two suspicious hashtags six or more times within the same period. Posted original tweets with common characteristics (language, media sources, length, and hashtags). Passed manual inspection to exclude accounts with substantial idiosyncratic content. Data Collection and Analysis The original data pull included all tweets mentioning # RwandaClassified or # RPFOnTop between May 13 and May 31, 2024, resulting in 149,246 messages from 5,537 accounts. Suspicious hashtags were identified based on frequency in messages from accounts sending at least ten messages during this period. The top suspicious hashtags included: #RPFOnTop (127,695 mentions) #PKNiWowe (95,100 mentions) #ThanksPK (27,609 mentions) #AgricultureAndFarming (26,879 mentions) Through further analysis, 610 accounts were identified as sharing two or more suspicious hashtags at least six times. After removing suspended accounts and applying additional hand-cleaning criteria, 464 accounts remained for the final analysis. On June 1, 2024, researchers pulled the latest data, collecting up to 10,000 messages from each of the 463 remaining accounts, resulting in 787,261 posts. Propaganda Tactics The identified accounts predominantly followed a pattern of rapid publication , using AI-generated text and preferred hashtags. Following the release of Forbidden Stories' reporting, these accounts targeted the reporting itself (# RwandaClassified) and promoted Rwandan political figures and parties, such as Paul Kagame (# PKNiWowe) and the Rwandan Patriotic Front (# RPFOnTop). These tactics aimed to disrupt online discussions and flood social media with government propaganda. The investigation into these 464 Twitter accounts highlights the extent and sophistication of coordinated influence operations. By employing media forensics and advanced analysis techniques, researchers were able to uncover a network dedicated to manipulating public perception and undermining credible journalism. As social media platforms continue to play a critical role in shaping public discourse, such studies are essential in identifying and countering the spread of disinformation. 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

$1 Billion Innovation Boost: Rwanda and Nigeria Spearhead African Startup Revolution Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 30, 2024 ​ In a landmark move for African innovation, Rwanda's capital, Kigali, became the stage for an unprecedented collaboration between President Paul Kagame and former Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. The duo came together to spearhead the Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing African startups with a substantial $1 billion fund. Richard Tusabe, Rwanda's Minister of State for National Treasury, heralded the discussions between the leaders as pivotal. He underscored the Timbuktoo Foundation's commitment to elevating African youth, transforming them into entrepreneurs, innovators, and problem solvers. "The Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation is not just a fund; it's a catalyst for transformative change across Africa, fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship on a pan-African scale," Tusabe stated. This initiative, which saw its inception at a special session of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January, aims to bolster startups across the African continent with the $1 billion innovation fund. The fund represents a significant stride towards empowering the African innovation ecosystem, providing both financial support and a platform for young entrepreneurs to thrive. Yemi Osinbajo, serving as the High Representative of the Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation, celebrated the launch of the Foundation in Rwanda. He lauded the collaborative effort between the UNDP, African governments, and the private sector as "the world's largest initiative supporting Africa's innovation ecosystem." Osinbajo emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative, stating, "Timbuktoo transcends being merely an initiative; it embodies a movement towards redefining Africa through innovation." With initiatives like UniPods sparking creativity in 13 cities and thematic hubs promoting excellence in sectors ranging from FinTech to GreenTech, the Timbuktoo Foundation is set to revolutionize the landscape of African innovation. "This historic day marks the beginning of a transformative journey for Africa, turning dreams into impactful ventures," Osinbajo remarked, envisioning a future where innovation redefines the continent. The Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation is poised to ignite a new era of growth and creativity across Africa, making the dream of a vibrant, innovative continent a tangible reality. As leaders and visionaries unite under this cause, the future of African innovation shines brighter than ever, promising a legacy of entrepreneurship and transformative success . 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 Sudanese Parties Commit to Code of Conduct for Upcoming December 2024 Elections Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 12, 2024 ​ South sudan opposition leader Riek Machar handshaking President Salva Kiir. In a significant step towards maintaining peace and fairness in the forthcoming national elections, South Sudan's political parties have agreed on a Code of Conduct. This crucial development took place during a pivotal event on April 4th, hosted by the reconstituted Political Parties Council of South Sudan. The gathering brought together leaders from various political factions and representatives from civil society to endorse the new regulations that aim to guide their actions during the electoral process. United Efforts for a Peaceful Election Ismail Wais, the Special Envoy to South Sudan from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), emphasized the importance of the Code of Conduct. "The adoption of the Code of Conduct comes at a critical time," Wais stated. He highlighted its necessity as "an essential ingredient for peaceful elections," which will help clarify permissible behaviors and enforce accountability for any actions that deviate from the agreed standards. Support for the initiative was strong among international stakeholders, with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) playing a supportive role in the forum. Joram Biswaro, the ambassador of the African Union mission in South Sudan, acknowledged the encouragement from UNMISS and other entities. "UNMISS and the other stakeholders encourage us to support this process to the extent that we are here to see this Code of Conduct today being validated,” Biswaro remarked. Juba's Preparations for a Fair Electoral Process As the capital city, Juba is at the forefront of achieving peace benchmarks necessary for conducting the first national elections since the 2018 peace agreement. The city is focused on establishing the necessary technical, logistical, operational, and political frameworks to ensure a fair and equitable voting process. The Role of UNMISS and Regional Partners Consistent with its mandate, UNMISS, along with regional partners, regularly engages in consultations with political parties. These discussions aim to address unresolved issues and foster trust among the political entities, reinforcing the mission's ongoing commitment to support South Sudan’s peace processes. Importance of Public Participation The success of South Sudan's democratic journey heavily depends on broad public engagement in the peace processes and a vibrant, competitive political landscape. The establishment of a fair electoral system and adherence to the newly adopted Code of Conduct are seen as vital components in paving the way for a peaceful and democratic future. South Sudan stands at a crucial juncture, and the cooperation and commitment demonstrated by its political leaders and international supporters are hopeful signs of a peaceful electoral period ahead. 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

Lola Group Grants $33 Million to SDD-UBIDS as Leader Claims All African Countries Can't Afford Guarantees Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 15, 2024 Map of Africa with an Empty bank safe Vivian Fray Tarrence, team lead for the international investment platform Lola Group in Turkey, declared that all African countries are bankrupt and unable to provide even 5% of the required funding for investors. This statement was made during a visit to the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS), where Tarrence met with Vice-Chancellor Prof. Emmanuel K. Derbile. Tarrence announced a US$33 million approval from the Lola Group for constructing new faculties , supporting research, and providing hostels at SDD-UBIDS. The funding, arranged through non-recourse and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements, aims to address infrastructure deficits in collaboration with the College for Community and Organisational Development. Tarrence explained that the Lola Group has developed a strategy to bypass the need for guarantees, which allowed for the approval of the US$33 million grant without any guarantees or upfront payments. Despite expressing concerns about the reluctance of funders to invest in Africa due to past project failures, Tarrence highlighted plans to facilitate exchange programs, enabling students from countries like South Africa, Turkey, the USA, and Canada to study at SDD-UBIDS. Prof. Emmanuel K. Derbile assured the Lola Group that the university is committed to executing the projects according to specifications and will promptly review the MoU and agreements to work efficiently with the university council. He expressed gratitude to the Lola Group for approving the funds and awarding the university two grants for various projects, hoping that this partnership will significantly improve the university’s infrastructure and enhance student accommodation and faculty facilities. 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

Enhancing Soft Skills in the AI Era: A Key Strategy for Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe May 28, 2024 ​ A symbolic image depicting Africa at the Heart of AI Innovation In Africa, a continent rich with economic potential and technological growth, a new conversation is emerging about the essential skills for 21st-century success. As AI gains momentum in African workspaces, the emphasis is shifting from solely hard skills to a balanced integration with soft skills. According to McKinsey, the demand for soft skills is expected to surge by 26% globally by 2030, highlighting the need for African professionals to cultivate these abilities. Soft skills, often referred to as ‘people skills’ or ‘interpersonal skills,’ include attributes such as communication, problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork, and leadership. These non-technical skills are crucial for career progression and are transferable across industries. In Africa’s diverse and rapidly growing tech landscape, soft skills form the backbone of effective work relationships and career success. Key Soft Skills for the African Workspace Communication: Effective communication is vital in any business but takes on added importance in Africa due to its cultural diversity. The Journal of Business and Social Science finds that intercultural communication significantly impacts team performance in multicultural settings common in Africa. Understanding cultural nuances, active listening, and providing clear feedback are essential components. Emotional Intelligence The ability to manage emotions and empathize with others is crucial in high-pressure environments. The African Journal of Business Management highlights the positive correlation between emotional intelligence and job satisfaction, reducing conflict and enhancing collaboration. Adaptability With rapid technological advancements, adaptability is essential. The African Development Bank stresses the importance of being open to change and eager to learn, as professionals who adapt quickly to new software and market dynamics are often the most successful. Problem-solving In an era where AI automates routine tasks, the ability to solve complex problems is highly sought after. The South African Journal of Industrial Psychology emphasizes the need for creative thinking and innovative solutions in the digital age. Teamwork Collaboration is fundamental in Africa’s culturally diverse workplaces. The African Journal of Hospitality, Tourism, and Leisure finds a strong correlation between teamwork and productivity. Effective teamwork involves acknowledging diverse viewpoints, building consensus, and working towards common goals. Leadership True leadership involves inspiring others, making sound decisions, and driving innovation. The African Leadership Institute underscores the importance of ethical and transformational leadership. Developing these skills is crucial for navigating the dynamic African tech scene and empowering teams. Bridging the AI-Soft Skills Gap The AI-Soft Skills gap highlights the difference between AI capabilities and human soft skills. AI is revolutionizing sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, finance, and education by enhancing efficiency and opening new possibilities. However, while AI excels in data analysis and routine tasks, human soft skills remain indispensable for interpersonal interactions, creativity, and complex problem-solving. By focusing on enhancing soft skills, African professionals can better integrate with AI technologies, ensuring they remain competitive and effective in the evolving workplace. This balanced approach is essential for maximizing the potential of both human and AI capabilities in Africa’s vibrant economic landscape. 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

MultiChoice Reports 18% Decline in Nigerian Subscribers Amid Economic Downturn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Jun 14, 2024 ​ MultiChoice has reported a significant decline in its subscriber base, particularly in Nigeria, according to the company's financial results for the year ending March 31, 2024. The report reveals an 18% drop in active subscribers in Nigeria, reflecting the impact of the country's challenging economic conditions. The decrease in subscriptions underscores the shrinking disposable income among Nigerians due to a struggling economy, a sharp decline in the naira, the removal of fuel subsidies, and soaring inflation rates. "The Nigerian economy and consumers faced persistent challenges through FY24 (Fiscal Year)," MultiChoice stated. "The removal of fuel subsidies, sharp currency depreciation with the official naira halving in value, inflation climbing to over 30%, and higher emigration of the middle and upper class drove an 18% YoY decline in active subscribers (FY23: +13%)." The company's Return on Assets (ROA) from Nigeria dropped from 44% to 35%. This decline in the Nigerian subscriber base contributed to a 9% decline in the group's total active subscribers. “The group’s 9% decline in active subscribers was mainly due to a 13% decline in the Rest of Africa business as mass-market customers in countries like Nigeria had to prioritize basic necessities over entertainment, while the South African business showed more resilience with a 5% decline,” MultiChoice added. The reviewed period is noted as the toughest set of macroeconomic conditions for MultiChoice's Rest of Africa (ROA) business since 2016, with high double-digit inflation in many of the group's core markets significantly pressuring customer spending power. "The official and parallel naira exchange rates reached peaks of ₦1600:1USD and ₦1900:1USD respectively in February 2024, with several other African markets also experiencing extreme foreign exchange depreciation," MultiChoice stated. 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

East African Crude Oil Pipeline Set to Create 14,000 Jobs Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 13, 2024 ​ An oil worker in safety gear inspecting a pipeline against the backdrop of East Africa's natural landscape, symbolizing the intersection of industry and environment The imminent commencement of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project promises to bolster employment in Uganda's burgeoning oil and gas sector. Petroleum Authority of Uganda's Kenneth Peter Bintu revealed an anticipated surge in job opportunities, with the workforce expected to increase from the current 13,067 to 14,000. Remarkably, 90% of these positions are held by Ugandans, underscoring the sector's commitment to local employment. Recent years saw the sector's employment peak at 13,800, but minor reductions occurred due to scaling down of activities. Nonetheless, the EACOP's initiation signals a revitalization, with the project being a collaborative endeavor among the Governments of Uganda and Tanzania, Total Energies, and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC). Investments totaling $7.1 billion have already been infused into the sector, with Ugandan contracts worth $1.9 billion. This significant financial input highlights the project's substantial economic impact. Local communities, especially in the Bunyoro region, are encouraged to seize this opportunity by acquiring necessary skills and registering with the National Suppliers Database (NSD) to access business prospects in the sector. Last year, 544 local companies received training under the African Development Bank-funded FAPA project, preparing them for participation in oil and gas developments. CNOOC's Eric Jumba emphasized the critical role of quality in securing supply contracts within the sector, indicating a stringent adherence to standards. Current progress includes the advancement of the Kingfisher development project's procurement and construction components, with notable achievements by local company Excel Construction Limited in drilling efforts. As the sector gears up for significant developments, including the construction of the EACOP and the initiation of the Tilenga upstream oil projects, the focus remains on harnessing local potential in health, transport, hospitality, security, and supplies, ensuring broad-based benefits from Uganda's oil and gas resources . 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

Crystal Palace Secure Historic Win Over Manchester United Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 7, 2024 ​ At Selhurst Park in London on May 6, 2024, Crystal Palace's Tyrick Mitchell was jubilant as he celebrated with his teammates after scoring the team's third goal against Manchester United. In an unprecedented league match, Crystal Palace defeated Manchester United 4-0 at Selhurst Park, marking their first-ever league double over the Manchester club. Michael Olise was the standout player, netting two goals, while Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell each added one to seal the victory. Manchester United, struggling with injuries, fielded a makeshift defence including Casemiro as centre-back. The team's defensive frailties were exploited by a dynamic Palace side, which led to United's downfall in this critical match. The loss leaves Manchester United in eighth place with 54 points from 35 games, jeopardizing their chances for European competition next season. In contrast, Palace's win solidifies their position at 14th in the league with 43 points. The absence of key players like Bruno Fernandes, missing his first match due to injury in his 230-game stint with United, significantly impacted the team's performance. Christian Eriksen of Manchester United expressed disappointment over the match's outcome, acknowledging the team's off-day and the impact of their injury woes. This match adds to the mounting pressures on United's manager, Erik ten Hag, as the team struggles to find form late in the season. 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

Nigeria Pursues $2.25 Billion in World Bank Financing to Bolster Economic Growth Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 22, 2024 ​ WALE-EDUN-Minister-of-Finance Nigeria In a strategic move to enhance economic stability and growth, Nigeria is in talks to secure up to $2.25 billion in loans from the World Bank, as disclosed by the government following the recent IMF/World Bank spring meetings held in Washington, D.C. The proposed financial package, expected to receive approval in June, includes $1.5 billion in development policy financing alongside $750 million in programme-for-results financing. Finance Minister Wale Edun highlighted the nation's proactive efforts to attract essential foreign exchange, including plans to issue diaspora bonds later this year. These bonds are aimed at engaging Nigerians living abroad in the country's economic development by leveraging their investment in national growth. Despite challenges such as a foreign exchange shortage that led to a dip in the value of the naira, Nigeria's currency has shown signs of recovery. This rebound is critical as Nigeria remains Africa's largest oil exporter. The administration of President Bola Tinubu has also inherited significant challenges including record debt levels and high unemployment rates. However, recent measures have seen a reduction in federal borrowing from the central bank by 50%, indicating a robust approach to fiscal management. The World Bank's potential approval of this substantial loan package in June will play a pivotal role in supporting Nigeria's ongoing economic reforms and development initiatives. These efforts are geared towards building a more stable and prosperous economic landscape for Africa's giant. 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

Kenya's Ruto Pledges cutting expenditure After Protests Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 5, 2024 Kenyan President William Ruto addresses a press conference at the State House in Nairobi, June 26, 2024. Kenyan President William Ruto on Friday announced spending cuts of 177 billion shillings ($1.39 billion) for the fiscal year starting in July, following weeks of nationwide protests that led to the scrapping of planned tax hikes. To cover the 346 billion shilling shortfall from withdrawing the finance bill, the government will increase borrowing by 169 billion shillings. The protests, initially peaceful but later turning violent , have posed the biggest challenge to Ruto's two-year-old presidency. Rights groups reported hundreds of arrests and at least 39 deaths due to the government's heavy-handed response, sparking fears of rights violations. In a televised address, Ruto stated that the budget deficit is now projected at 4.6% of GDP for the 2024/25 financial year, up from an earlier estimate of 3.3%. He outlined measures to cut spending, including dissolving 47 state corporations, reducing government advisors by 50%, and suspending non-essential travel for public officials. "Budget lines for the operations of the Office of the First Lady, the spouse of the Deputy President, and the Prime Cabinet Secretary will be removed," Ruto said, adding that public servants aged 60 and above must retire immediately. 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

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