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- Rwandan Artist Shaffy Announces Concert in Canada
Rwandan singer Shaffy announces a concert in Ottawa, Canada scheduled for May 2026 as he continues expanding his music career internationally. Rwandan singer Kalisa Uzabumwana Sharif , popularly known as Shaffy , has announced plans to perform in Ottawa, Canada , marking another step in his expanding international music journey. The artist, who is currently based in the United States , revealed the upcoming concert through a message posted on his Instagram account , confirming that the event will take place in May 2026 . Additional details about the venue and exact date are expected to be released in the coming days. Shaffy is known for several popular songs including “Akabanga ,” “Sukuma,” and “Naruguyemo.” Over the years, he has built a growing fan base across Rwanda and within the African diaspora, while also working with music support platform Rock Hill earlier in his career. The announcement comes after a series of performances that have strengthened his presence in the regional music scene. Shaffy recently performed in Kigali at a concert celebrating Kevin Kade’s five years in music , held at the Kigali Convention Center , which attracted strong support from local fans. He also appeared in Kampala, Uganda , where he performed alongside The Ben during a concert organized around Valentine’s Day celebrations , further extending his reach beyond Rwanda. The planned performance in Canada is expected to bring Shaffy closer to Rwandan and African audiences living abroad, while continuing to position his music on a broader international stage. Promotional material for the event indicates that the show will take place in Ottawa , with more information expected soon as preparations continue. Source: InyaRwanda Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Rwandan Artist Shaffy Announces Concert in Canada By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 14, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Rwandan singer Kalisa Uzabumwana Sharif , popularly known as Shaffy , has announced plans to perform in Ottawa, Canada , marking another step in his expanding international music journey. The artist, who is currently based in the United States , revealed the upcoming concert through a message posted on his Instagram account , confirming that the event will take place in May 2026 . Additional details about the venue and exact date are expected to be released in the coming days. Shaffy is known for several popular songs including “Akabanga ,” “Sukuma,” and “Naruguyemo.” Over the years, he has built a growing fan base across Rwanda and within the African diaspora, while also working with music support platform Rock Hill earlier in his career. ADVERTISEMENT The announcement comes after a series of performances that have strengthened his presence in the regional music scene. Shaffy recently performed in Kigali at a concert celebrating Kevin Kade’s five years in music , held at the Kigali Convention Center , which attracted strong support from local fans. He also appeared in Kampala, Uganda , where he performed alongside The Ben during a concert organized around Valentine’s Day celebrations , further extending his reach beyond Rwanda. ADVERTISEMENT The planned performance in Canada is expected to bring Shaffy closer to Rwandan and African audiences living abroad, while continuing to position his music on a broader international stage. Promotional material for the event indicates that the show will take place in Ottawa , with more information expected soon as preparations continue. 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: InyaRwanda 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 Rwandan Entertainment Rwandan Entertainment Rwanda Rwanda
- Congo Basin Holds $23 Trillion in Untapped Green Wealth
A new World Bank report reveals Congo Basin forests are worth $23T. DRC now faces a major opportunity to lead Africa’s climate-smart, green economy. KINSHASA — A landmark World Bank report has thrust the Congo Basin into the global spotlight, estimating the region’s total forest value at $23.2 trillion, positioning it as a sleeping economic giant and a climate powerhouse for Africa and the world. The report, titled “Congo Basin Forest Ecosystem Accounts,” reveals a dramatic rise in the basin’s natural asset value, nearly doubling from $590 billion in 2000 to $1.15 trillion in 2020 for ecosystem services alone, and reaching an astonishing $23.2 trillion when factoring in total forest wealth. Green Wealth, Undercapitalized Reality Despite its massive ecological value, the region’s local governments earned only $8 billion in 2020, primarily through traditional sectors such as timber, bushmeat, wild foods, and ecotourism, a mere fraction of its full economic potential. “These forests, managed sustainably, can serve as powerful engines for development, creating jobs, enabling climate-smart growth, and strengthening local economies.” Ousmane Diagana, World Bank VP for Western & Central Africa. The Congo Basin: Africa’s Ecological Backbone Stretching across six African nations, the Congo Basin is the second-largest tropical rainforest in the world, after the Amazon. It serves as the “lungs of Africa,” absorbing carbon, regulating rainfall, and sustaining biodiversity crucial for millions. Among the countries, Gabon and the Republic of Congo are taking the lead by embedding forest sustainability into national policy. Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea are reinforcing governance systems. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), home to over 60% of the basin, holds the largest share of this ecological wealth, but faces rising pressures from informal logging, artisanal mining, and expanding agriculture. DRC’s Strategic Opportunity Continue Reading Full Article CONGO'S INVESTMENT Congo Basin Holds $23 Trillion in Untapped Green Wealth By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Oct 21, 2025 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: KINSHASA — A landmark World Bank report has thrust the Congo Basin into the global spotlight, estimating the region’s total forest value at $23.2 trillion, positioning it as a sleeping economic giant and a climate powerhouse for Africa and the world. The report, titled “Congo Basin Forest Ecosystem Accounts,” reveals a dramatic rise in the basin’s natural asset value, nearly doubling from $590 billion in 2000 to $1.15 trillion in 2020 for ecosystem services alone, and reaching an astonishing $23.2 trillion when factoring in total forest wealth. Green Wealth, Undercapitalized Reality Despite its massive ecological value, the region’s local governments earned only $8 billion in 2020, primarily through traditional sectors such as timber, bushmeat, wild foods, and ecotourism, a mere fraction of its full economic potential. ADVERTISEMENT “These forests, managed sustainably, can serve as powerful engines for development, creating jobs, enabling climate-smart growth, and strengthening local economies.” Ousmane Diagana, World Bank VP for Western & Central Africa. The Congo Basin: Africa’s Ecological Backbone Stretching across six African nations, the Congo Basin is the second-largest tropical rainforest in the world, after the Amazon. It serves as the “lungs of Africa,” absorbing carbon, regulating rainfall, and sustaining biodiversity crucial for millions. Among the countries, Gabon and the Republic of Congo are taking the lead by embedding forest sustainability into national policy. Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea are reinforcing governance systems. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), home to over 60% of the basin, holds the largest share of this ecological wealth, but faces rising pressures from informal logging, artisanal mining, and expanding agriculture. DRC’s Strategic Opportunity For the DRC under President Félix Tshisekedi, the report serves as both a wake-up call and a window of opportunity. With the right policies, green finance mechanisms, and international partnerships, the country can: ADVERTISEMENT Integrate natural capital into macroeconomic planning Attract climate-aligned investments Scale sustainable forest-based industries Build local resilience against climate shocks This aligns with recent national reforms and green diplomacy efforts championed by DRC’s leadership on the African and global stage. The Path Forward: From Extraction to Regeneration The World Bank urges governments to move beyond extractive practices and recognize forests as core national assets, essential not just for carbon markets, but for long-term economic sovereignty. 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 Culture & Tourism People's Palace Kinshasa: History, Architecture and Parliament . Visit DR Congo Maï-Ndombe River: Discover a Hidden Natural Treasure Near Kinshasa . Entertainment Papa Wemba: The Enduring Voice of Congo and His Lasting Legacy . Visit DR Congo Lake Ma Vallée: Kinshasa's Historic Nature Escape . Visit DR Congo Zongo Falls: A Complete Travel Guide to Kongo Central’s Natural Escape . ADVERTISEMENT “The Congo Basin isn’t just a carbon sink, it’s a green vault. One that, if protected and valued, could redefine Africa’s place in the global green economy,” 📊 Key Figures from the Report $23.2 trillion: Total forest asset value $1.15 trillion: Annual ecosystem services value (2020) $8 billion: Economic benefits captured by basin countries (2020) 6 nations covered: DRC, Gabon, Congo-Brazzaville, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, CAR Congo’s Role in Climate-Driven Growth As the world accelerates toward net-zero goals, Congo's forest assets are no longer just environmental talking points; they are strategic development capital. From carbon credit markets to green infrastructure, the DRC is poised to become a continental leader in climate-smart development ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Culture & Tourism People's Palace Kinshasa: History, Architecture and Parliament Discover how a China-backed project under Mobutu became the home of Congo's Parliament. . Visit DR Congo Maï-Ndombe River: Discover a Hidden Natural Treasure Near Kinshasa Explore the river's geography, dark waters, local communities and potential for responsible tourism . Entertainment Papa Wemba: The Enduring Voice of Congo and His Lasting Legacy From rumba and SAPE to La Dernière Symphonie, explore Papa Wemba's legacy ten years after his death. . Visit DR Congo Lake Ma Vallée: Kinshasa's Historic Nature Escape Discover the history, activities and environmental importance of this green retreat in Mont-Ngafula . Tags Visit Congo Visit Congo DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo
- Southern Africa tests Starlink after Namibia licence block
Namibia’s rejection of Starlink adds to wider southern African scrutiny of telecom ownership, licensing and market access. Namibia’s decision to reject Starlink’s licence application has widened the spotlight on how southern African states are regulating foreign telecom operators, as governments weigh digital expansion against domestic ownership and compliance rules. The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia did not approve the company’s bid to offer satellite internet services locally, in a move that has reinforced the country’s long-standing insistence on local participation in strategic sectors. Separate reporting has said the refusal covered both telecoms service access and radio spectrum rights because the application did not meet local ownership requirements, adding a regulatory dimension to what might otherwise have been seen as a simple market-entry delay . The development also fits into a broader policy pattern. In late 2024, Namibia’s regulator said Starlink was not licensed to operate in the country and warned the public against buying terminal equipment or subscribing to the service while it remained unauthorized , underscoring that the dispute extends beyond one application to the wider question of legal market access. For the region, the case highlights a deeper tension between the push to expand connectivity in underserved areas and the determination of governments to preserve local control over telecommunications infrastructure. As Starlink expands across Africa, Namibia’s stance suggests that southern African regulators may continue to treat ownership, licensing and national compliance rules as central conditions for entry rather than procedural hurdles. Continue Reading Full Article TECH AND STARTUPS Southern Africa tests Starlink after Namibia licence block By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Mar 25, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Namibia’s decision to reject Starlink’s licence application has widened the spotlight on how southern African states are regulating foreign telecom operators, as governments weigh digital expansion against domestic ownership and compliance rules. The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia did not approve the company’s bid to offer satellite internet services locally, in a move that has reinforced the country’s long-standing insistence on local participation in strategic sectors. Separate reporting has said the refusal covered both telecoms service access and radio spectrum rights because the application did not meet local ownership requirements, adding a regulatory dimension to what might otherwise have been seen as a simple market-entry delay . ADVERTISEMENT The development also fits into a broader policy pattern. In late 2024, Namibia’s regulator said Starlink was not licensed to operate in the country and warned the public against buying terminal equipment or subscribing to the service while it remained unauthorized , underscoring that the dispute extends beyond one application to the wider question of legal market access. For the region, the case highlights a deeper tension between the push to expand connectivity in underserved areas and the determination of governments to preserve local control over telecommunications infrastructure. ADVERTISEMENT As Starlink expands across Africa, Namibia’s stance suggests that southern African regulators may continue to treat ownership, licensing and national compliance rules as central conditions for entry rather than procedural hurdles. 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 Tech and Startups Southern Africa tests Starlink after Namibia licence block . Accident News Authorities to Review Safety After Chapman’s Peak Off-Road Incident . Travel Guide 10 Unique Seychelles Species: Wildlife You Must See . Travel Guide Island-Hopping in Seychelles 2025:Mahé,Praslin & La Digue Like a Local . Travel Guide Top 8 most visited islands on Africa’s Indian Ocean coast . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tech and Startups Southern Africa tests Starlink after Namibia licence block Namibia’s decision adds to regional scrutiny of foreign telecom operators and ownership rules. . Accident News Authorities to Review Safety After Chapman’s Peak Off-Road Incident No fatalities reported after vehicle left roadway; EMS treated two people . Travel Guide 10 Unique Seychelles Species: Wildlife You Must See From butt-shaped coconuts to gothic birds, here’s your wild guide to Seychelles’ rarest residents. . Travel Guide Island-Hopping in Seychelles 2025:Mahé,Praslin & La Digue Like a Local From city buzz in Mahé to beach-bum bliss in La Digue here’s how to crack Seychelles in 2025 . Tags Travel South Africa Travel South Africa Africa Africa Namibia Namibia Bussiness Tech Bussiness Tech Technology & Innovation Technology & Innovation
- DR Congo Expands Special Economic Zones to Boost Jobs & Industry
PM Judith Suminwa drives Congo’s economic growth with new SEZs, boosting jobs, exports, and sovereignty through tax breaks and investor incentives. Kinshasa, September 9, 2025 – Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka has taken a bold step to fast-track industrial growth in the Democratic Republic of Congo. She chaired the first meeting of the Strategic Steering Committee for Special Economic Zones (SEZs), a project seen as a cornerstone for industrialization, job creation, and national pride. During the session, officials reviewed the progress of existing SEZs in Maluku, Kin Malebo, Katanga, Kinsevere, Lubero, and Musienene, while announcing plans for seven new zones that will extend opportunities to more regions. One of the big challenges discussed was the saturation of the Maluku SEZ, which has already attracted a high number of companies. The government is working on quick solutions to expand capacity and ensure investors can continue to operate smoothly. The meeting also celebrated early successes. Products “Made in DRC” – including tiles, beverages, and pharmaceutical goods – are already being exported, proving that Congolese industries can compete on global markets. To make the SEZs even more attractive, the government confirmed a package of reforms: simplified administration, tax exemptions, and adapted infrastructure designed to help both local entrepreneurs and international investors. “The Special Economic Zones are more than projects. They are the engine of Congo’s sovereignty, massive job creation, and industrial pride,” the Suminwa government stated. With these moves, the DRC is positioning itself as a new hub for African manufacturing and entrepreneurship, where Congolese talent and resources drive long-term growth. Continue Reading Full Article | ECONOMY DR Congo Expands Special Economic Zones to Boost Jobs & Industry By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Sep 10, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kinshasa, September 9, 2025 – Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka has taken a bold step to fast-track industrial growth in the Democratic Republic of Congo. She chaired the first meeting of the Strategic Steering Committee for Special Economic Zones (SEZs), a project seen as a cornerstone for industrialization, job creation, and national pride. During the session, officials reviewed the progress of existing SEZs in Maluku, Kin Malebo, Katanga, Kinsevere, Lubero, and Musienene, while announcing plans for seven new zones that will extend opportunities to more regions. ADVERTISEMENT One of the big challenges discussed was the saturation of the Maluku SEZ, which has already attracted a high number of companies. The government is working on quick solutions to expand capacity and ensure investors can continue to operate smoothly. The meeting also celebrated early successes. Products “Made in DRC” – including tiles, beverages, and pharmaceutical goods – are already being exported, proving that Congolese industries can compete on global markets. ADVERTISEMENT To make the SEZs even more attractive, the government confirmed a package of reforms: simplified administration, tax exemptions, and adapted infrastructure designed to help both local entrepreneurs and international investors. “The Special Economic Zones are more than projects. They are the engine of Congo’s sovereignty, massive job creation, and industrial pride,” the Suminwa government stated. 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 Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . Economic Policies DR Congo and Russia Establish Permanent Economic Commission . Economic Reports DRC Exits FATF Grey List After Completing Reform Plan . Infrastructure Grand Inga Moves Forward as RDC-US Committee Meets in Paris . ADVERTISEMENT With these moves, the DRC is positioning itself as a new hub for African manufacturing and entrepreneurship, where Congolese talent and resources drive long-term growth. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews Board vote set for December; minister says up to $771 million could follow if approved . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid DR Congo opens a UK investment forum in London with nearly 90 British investors, seeking partnerships . Economic Policies DR Congo and Russia Establish Permanent Economic Commission A new bilateral commission will coordinate trade, technology, technical cooperation... . Economic Reports DRC Exits FATF Grey List After Completing Reform Plan The October 30 decision recognizes reforms to combat money laundering and strengthen.... . Tags DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo Judith Suminwa Judith Suminwa DR Congo News DR Congo News
- Why Did Rwanda Destroy 26,000 Litres of Its Famous Akarusho Drink?
Rwanda destroyed over 26,000 litres of Akarusho from Sina Gerard’s Nyirangarama factory amid a crackdown on unsafe and non-compliant alcohol. More than 26,000 litres of Akarusho, the banana-based alcoholic drink produced by entrepreneur Sina Gerard’s Entreprise Urwibutso, have been destroyed as Rwanda intensifies a nationwide crackdown on alcoholic beverages deemed unsafe or non-compliant. KIGALI, Rwanda — August 19, 2026 — Rwanda’s sweeping crackdown on alcoholic beverages has reached one of the country’s most recognizable homegrown brands, after authorities destroyed more than 26,000 litres of Akarusho at Nyirangarama in Rulindo District. Akarusho is produced by Entreprise Urwibutso, the agro-processing company founded by prominent Rwandan entrepreneur Sina Gerard. The banana-based alcoholic beverage has been sold in Rwanda for more than two decades and is closely associated with the Nyirangarama brand. Its destruction has therefore attracted particular attention among Rwandans, with social-media users questioning how such a long-established product became caught up in the government's alcohol crackdown. Why was Akarusho destroyed? According to the reporting available, authorities said inspections identified problems involving hygiene and the production process that could potentially affect consumers' health. On August 18, officials in Rulindo District destroyed more than 26,000 litres of Akarusho, alongside other alcoholic products considered non-compliant. Police spokesperson CIP Ignace Ngirabakunzi said problems had been identified during inspections, while the company was reportedly instructed to address the deficiencies. The destruction came days after the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) reportedly closed the alcoholic-beverage production section of Sina Gerard's factory on August 8. Other food and juice operations were not included in that closure. Part of a much bigger crackdown Continue Reading Full Article LOCAL GOVERNMENT Why Did Rwanda Destroy 26,000 Litres of Its Famous Akarusho Drink? By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 19, 2026 Aug 19, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: More than 26,000 litres of Akarusho, the banana-based alcoholic drink produced by entrepreneur Sina Gerard’s Entreprise Urwibutso, have been destroyed as Rwanda intensifies a nationwide crackdown on alcoholic beverages deemed unsafe or non-compliant. KIGALI, Rwanda — August 19, 2026 — Rwanda’s sweeping crackdown on alcoholic beverages has reached one of the country’s most recognizable homegrown brands, after authorities destroyed more than 26,000 litres of Akarusho at Nyirangarama in Rulindo District. Akarusho is produced by Entreprise Urwibutso, the agro-processing company founded by prominent Rwandan entrepreneur Sina Gerard. The banana-based alcoholic beverage has been sold in Rwanda for more than two decades and is closely associated with the Nyirangarama brand. Its destruction has therefore attracted particular attention among Rwandans, with social-media users questioning how such a long-established product became caught up in the government's alcohol crackdown. Why was Akarusho destroyed? According to the reporting available, authorities said inspections identified problems involving hygiene and the production process that could potentially affect consumers' health. On August 18, officials in Rulindo District destroyed more than 26,000 litres of Akarusho, alongside other alcoholic products considered non-compliant. ADVERTISEMENT Police spokesperson CIP Ignace Ngirabakunzi said problems had been identified during inspections, while the company was reportedly instructed to address the deficiencies. The destruction came days after the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) reportedly closed the alcoholic-beverage production section of Sina Gerard's factory on August 8. Other food and juice operations were not included in that closure. Part of a much bigger crackdown The action against Akarusho did not occur in isolation. Rwandan authorities have launched a broad campaign against alcoholic beverages following reports of deaths and serious health problems associated with contaminated or improperly produced alcohol. Factories have been inspected and closed, products removed from circulation and large quantities of alcoholic beverages and ethanol seized or destroyed. The government presents the operation as a public-health intervention designed to remove potentially dangerous products from the market. ADVERTISEMENT But Akarusho's case has made the crackdown considerably more controversial. Why are some Rwandans questioning the decision? Unlike an unknown illicit brew, Akarusho has been part of Rwanda's domestic beverage market for years. Its producer, Sina Gerard, built Nyirangarama into one of Rwanda's recognizable agro-processing businesses, producing beverages, food products and the internationally known Akabanga chilli oil. That history has prompted questions online about how more than 26,000 litres of an established commercial product reached the point where authorities considered destruction necessary. Some Rwandans have questioned whether regulatory problems existed previously, how the product was allowed to remain on the market if standards were not being met, and whether destroying such a large quantity was the appropriate response. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu . War in DR Congo Tshisekedi: Sanctions Forced Kagame to Pull Kabila From His Cave . Biography Claudette Mukashyaka Biography: Rwanda’s New Auditor General . ADVERTISEMENT Others support the crackdown, arguing that the reputation or longevity of a company should not exempt it from food and beverage safety requirements. Public safety versus protecting local industry That is now the larger debate surrounding Akarusho. Rwanda has legitimate reason to act against alcohol that poses a demonstrated health risk. Contaminated alcohol can cause severe poisoning, blindness and death. At the same time, enforcement against an established Made-in-Rwanda producer raises questions about regulatory oversight and the economic consequences for domestic businesses, employees and agricultural suppliers. The central issue is therefore bigger than 26,000 litres of banana wine. If Akarusho failed required standards, authorities will face questions about how those failures developed and how long regulators knew about them. If the company corrects the cited deficiencies, another question will follow: when — and under what conditions — will production be allowed to resume? For one of Rwanda's most familiar locally produced drinks, the crackdown has turned a public-health enforcement action into a wider debate about regulation, accountability and the treatment of domestic industry. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty Will Democrats support Kagame after the 2026 midterms? Blinken's statements, Biden's Rwanda policy . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA Trump plans to remove Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA trade benefits starting January 1, 2027 . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu South Kivu accuses Rwandan forces and M23 of forcibly displacing civilians in Katogota, . War in DR Congo Tshisekedi: Sanctions Forced Kagame to Pull Kabila From His Cave The DRC president accuses Kagame of using Kabila's new rebel leadership to disguise Rwanda's role in... . Tags Rwanda Rwanda
- Walikale Road Reopens After Five Days of AFC/M23-FARDC Clashes
Traffic has resumed on the Kashebere-Mungazi road after clashes in Kibati, restoring key supply routes to Walikale Traffic resumed on June 5 on the Kashebere–Mungazi road in the Luberike group of Walikale territory after a five‑day suspension caused by clashes between government forces and rebel groups in the village of Kibati. According to Actualité.CD , the FARDC (DR Congo’s army) and local Wazalendo militiamen withdrew from Kibati on June 4 and regrouped at Mungazi, ceding control of the area to AFC/M23 rebels. Casualty figures were still unknown, but residents reported that people fled nearby villages during the fighting. Reopening the road allows lorries and motorbikes carrying goods from the provincial capital Goma to reach Walikale, relieving a supply backlog at Kashebere and Nyabiondo. A vital route in a fragile region The Kashebere–Mungazi corridor is the main road linking Walikale to other population centres and has frequently been disrupted by conflict or disasters. In February 2026 the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that a landslide in the village of Burutsi killed at least 30 people and cut the Kashebere–Mungazi–Kibua axis, which OCHA described as the only road connecting the area to Walikale town. Aid agencies warned that alongside fighting, such disasters were eroding basic services, with explosions and drone strikes causing fresh displacement and damaging health facilities. The road’s reopening therefore has major implications for the movement of both civilians and humanitarian supplies. Ongoing conflict and contested governance Recent stories from XtraAfrica highlight the volatile context in Walikale. In May a newly installed village chief in Walikale’s Ikobo grouping was shot dead at home by alleged Wazalendo fighters only 48 hours after AFC/M23 rebels appointed him. The killing underscored tensions over M23’s parallel system of local administration; the movement has been appointing village chiefs and community leaders in territories under its control, a practice rejected by the Kinshasa government as unconstitutional. Analysts warned that such parallel governance structures deepen insecurity and could weaken civilian protection. In a separate report dated June 4, it was noted that the FARDC urged more M23 fighters to surrender after 204 rebels laid down their arms during April and May. Military spokesperson Major Dieudonné Kasereka said the fighters arrived from Lubero, Rutshuru, Masisi and Kalehe with weapons and were received by government forces. The call for further surrenders suggested that pressure on M23 could be rising. Continue Reading Full Article WAR IN DR CONGO Walikale Road Reopens After Five Days of AFC/M23-FARDC Clashes By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 5, 2026 Jun 5, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Traffic resumed on June 5 on the Kashebere–Mungazi road in the Luberike group of Walikale territory after a five‑day suspension caused by clashes between government forces and rebel groups in the village of Kibati. According to Actualité.CD , the FARDC (DR Congo’s army) and local Wazalendo militiamen withdrew from Kibati on June 4 and regrouped at Mungazi, ceding control of the area to AFC/M23 rebels. Casualty figures were still unknown, but residents reported that people fled nearby villages during the fighting. Reopening the road allows lorries and motorbikes carrying goods from the provincial capital Goma to reach Walikale, relieving a supply backlog at Kashebere and Nyabiondo. A vital route in a fragile region The Kashebere–Mungazi corridor is the main road linking Walikale to other population centres and has frequently been disrupted by conflict or disasters. In February 2026 the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that a landslide in the village of Burutsi killed at least 30 people and cut the Kashebere–Mungazi–Kibua axis, which OCHA described as the only road connecting the area to Walikale town. ADVERTISEMENT Aid agencies warned that alongside fighting, such disasters were eroding basic services, with explosions and drone strikes causing fresh displacement and damaging health facilities. The road’s reopening therefore has major implications for the movement of both civilians and humanitarian supplies. Ongoing conflict and contested governance Recent stories from XtraAfrica highlight the volatile context in Walikale. In May a newly installed village chief in Walikale’s Ikobo grouping was shot dead at home by alleged Wazalendo fighters only 48 hours after AFC/M23 rebels appointed him. The killing underscored tensions over M23’s parallel system of local administration; the movement has been appointing village chiefs and community leaders in territories under its control, a practice rejected by the Kinshasa government as unconstitutional. ADVERTISEMENT Analysts warned that such parallel governance structures deepen insecurity and could weaken civilian protection. In a separate report dated June 4, it was noted that the FARDC urged more M23 fighters to surrender after 204 rebels laid down their arms during April and May. Military spokesperson Major Dieudonné Kasereka said the fighters arrived from Lubero, Rutshuru, Masisi and Kalehe with weapons and were received by government forces. The call for further surrenders suggested that pressure on M23 could be rising. 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 Implications The reopening of the Kashebere–Mungazi road will immediately benefit traders and residents by restoring supply lines between Goma and Walikale. However, the region remains tense. The road had previously been cut by landslides and remains vulnerable to rebel activity. The M23’s appointment of local officials and the assassination of an appointed chief reveal deep governance disputes. The FARDC’s call for more defections shows there is ongoing military pressure on the rebels, but clashes continue. Until a durable political solution is found, supply corridors like Kashebere–Mungazi are likely to face recurrent disruptions despite periodic reopenings. 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 Wazalendo DRC Wazalendo DRC M23 Rebels M23 Rebels DR Congo News DR Congo News M23 Conflict Updates M23 Conflict Updates
In a significant development within Cameroon's football scene, the Cameroonian Football Federation (CFF) has identified 52 players, including a notable member from the country's African Cup of Nations squad, with discrepancies in their registration, leading to potential exclusions from the nation's premier championship playoffs. Among those implicated is Wilfried Nathan Douala, a talent from Victoria United FC, who, along with others, is accused of age falsification under the guise of a " double identity ," as reported by French broadcaster RMC and various Cameroonian news outlets. The revelation came to light following the federation's announcement of the team rosters for the upcoming qualifiers, scheduled to start this Friday. In an unprecedented move, the CFF highlighted the names of the implicated players in red to denote their "double identity" status. Remarkably, Yong Sports Academy stands out, with 13 of its players flagged for potential suspension due to dual identity issues. This crackdown on age and identity fraud signifies the CFF's commitment to integrity and fair play in Cameroon's football league, as the nation prepares for the highly anticipated national championship qualifiers. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 13, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Former Rigobert Song's boys celebrating goal in front of Cameroon Fans. Image/Gettyimage In a significant development within Cameroon's football scene, the Cameroonian Football Federation (CFF) has identified 52 players, including a notable member from the country's African Cup of Nations squad, with discrepancies in their registration, leading to potential exclusions from the nation's premier championship playoffs. Among those implicated is Wilfried Nathan Douala, a talent from Victoria United FC, who, along with others, is accused of age falsification under the guise of a " double identity ," as reported by French broadcaster RMC and various Cameroonian news outlets. ADVERTISEMENT The revelation came to light following the federation's announcement of the team rosters for the upcoming qualifiers, scheduled to start this Friday. In an unprecedented move, the CFF highlighted the names of the implicated players in red to denote their "double identity" status. Remarkably, Yong Sports Academy stands out, with 13 of its players flagged for potential suspension due to dual identity issues. ADVERTISEMENT This crackdown on age and identity fraud signifies the CFF's commitment to integrity and fair play in Cameroon's football league, as the nation prepares for the highly anticipated national championship qualifiers. 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
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - In a significant stride towards environmental conservation, Ethiopia's Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) has announced an ambitious plan to plant 6.5 billion saplings during the upcoming rainy season. This initiative forms a part of the country's broader Green Legacy Initiative aimed at bolstering the ecological integrity of the Nile Basin and supporting sustainable development. Fanosie Mekonnen, MoA's Lead Executive Officer for Natural Resources Protection and Usage , revealed in a conversation with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that a considerable focus of this year's reforestation efforts would be directed towards the Nile Basin. Specifically, 25 percent of the forestry seedlings, constituting a mix of 60 percent agroforestry and 40 percent forestry trees, are earmarked for this critical watershed area. The initiative is not only about planting trees but also about safeguarding crucial national assets like the Abbay Dam from sedimentation threats. By reinforcing natural resource management and conservation within the Nile Basin, Ethiopia is taking proactive steps to maintain the dam's longevity and functionality. Collaboration is at the heart of this endeavor, with Fanosie highlighting the collective efforts of state leaders and the general public in driving the Green Legacy Initiative forward. The nationwide commitment is evident in the participation in basin development and green legacy activities, demonstrating a unified approach to environmental stewardship. Looking back at the journey of the Green Legacy Initiative, Ethiopia has made commendable progress, with over 32.5 billion seedlings planted across the nation in the last five years. The ambitious goal to plant 50 billion seedlings in the initiative's first and second phases underscores Ethiopia's dedication to environmental conservation and climate action. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 9, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ethiopia Advances Green Legacy Initiative with Massive Nile Basin Reforestation Plan Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - In a significant stride towards environmental conservation, Ethiopia's Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) has announced an ambitious plan to plant 6.5 billion saplings during the upcoming rainy season. This initiative forms a part of the country's broader Green Legacy Initiative aimed at bolstering the ecological integrity of the Nile Basin and supporting sustainable development. Fanosie Mekonnen, MoA's Lead Executive Officer for Natural Resources Protection and Usage , revealed in a conversation with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that a considerable focus of this year's reforestation efforts would be directed towards the Nile Basin. Specifically, 25 percent of the forestry seedlings, constituting a mix of 60 percent agroforestry and 40 percent forestry trees, are earmarked for this critical watershed area. ADVERTISEMENT The initiative is not only about planting trees but also about safeguarding crucial national assets like the Abbay Dam from sedimentation threats. By reinforcing natural resource management and conservation within the Nile Basin, Ethiopia is taking proactive steps to maintain the dam's longevity and functionality. ADVERTISEMENT Collaboration is at the heart of this endeavor, with Fanosie highlighting the collective efforts of state leaders and the general public in driving the Green Legacy Initiative forward. The nationwide commitment is evident in the participation in basin development and green legacy activities, demonstrating a unified approach to environmental stewardship. Looking back at the journey of the Green Legacy Initiative, Ethiopia has made commendable progress, with over 32.5 billion seedlings planted across the nation in the last five years. The ambitious goal to plant 50 billion seedlings in the initiative's first and second phases underscores Ethiopia's dedication to environmental conservation and climate action. 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
- What Is Hantavirus? The Rare Virus Linked to Cruise Ship Deaths
Medical experts explain hantavirus symptoms, transmission and why the Andes strain concerns health officials. When a cluster of severe respiratory illness swept through the Dutch‑flagged cruise ship MV Hondius in April 2026, investigators quickly identified a rare culprit: hantavirus. Seven passengers developed fever, pulmonary symptoms and gastrointestinal complaints, two of whom were later laboratory‑confirmed to be infected and three of whom died . The ship had sailed from Ushuaia, Argentina, and experts say passengers may have been exposed to the virus during shore excursions in South America, where Andes virus is endemic. Dr Charlotte Hammer of the University of Cambridge noted that although the ship’s passengers and crew face a higher risk due to shared exposures, the risk to the general public remains “very small”. Dr Benjamin Brennan of the University of Glasgow emphasised that the World Health Organization (WHO) still needs to determine whether the infection was acquired in port or on board and whether limited person‑to‑person transmission occurred . Hantaviruses are zoonotic RNA viruses belonging to the order Bunyavirales. They co‑evolved with specific rodent hosts and are divided into Old World hantaviruses found in Europe and Asia and New World hantaviruses found in the Americas. Prof Sir Andrew Pollard of the University of Oxford explains that the New World viruses typically cause a life‑threatening respiratory illness called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, whereas Old World viruses tend to cause haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. Because different hantavirus species are tied to particular rodent hosts, most human cases involve exposure to rodent urine, faeces or saliva rather than direct contact with other people . Transmission occurs when people inhale aerosols generated from contaminated rodent excreta or, less commonly, through bites. Dr Giulia Gallo of the Pirbright Institute notes that household cleaning of rodent‑infested areas or touristic activities in endemic regions may create such exposures. Human‑to‑human transmission is extremely rare; experts stress that only the Andes strain has been documented to spread between people under conditions of close and prolonged contact. Once infected, patients often experience non‑specific, flu‑like symptoms including fever, muscle aches and headache before rapidly progressing to respiratory distress and shock in severe cases. New World hantavirus infections carry a case‑fatality rate of 30–40 percent, and there are no approved vaccines or specific antiviral treatments; care is supportive and usually requires intensive monitoring . Despite the alarming cluster on the MV Hondius, experts urge perspective. Dr Hammer reiterates that outbreaks usually arise from a single environmental exposure and that “human‑to‑human transmission is rare”. Prof Mark Fielder of Kingston University emphasises that strict infection‑control measures isolating infected patients, monitoring close contacts and enforcing hand hygiene can limit onward spread. The WHO reports that hantavirus infections remain uncommon globally and that, even in the Americas, only 229 cases were recorded in 2025 with a case‑fatality ratio of about 25 percent. Continue Reading Full Article HEALTH NEWS What Is Hantavirus? The Rare Virus Linked to Cruise Ship Deaths By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 7, 2026 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: When a cluster of severe respiratory illness swept through the Dutch‑flagged cruise ship MV Hondius in April 2026, investigators quickly identified a rare culprit: hantavirus. Seven passengers developed fever, pulmonary symptoms and gastrointestinal complaints, two of whom were later laboratory‑confirmed to be infected and three of whom died . The ship had sailed from Ushuaia, Argentina, and experts say passengers may have been exposed to the virus during shore excursions in South America, where Andes virus is endemic. Dr Charlotte Hammer of the University of Cambridge noted that although the ship’s passengers and crew face a higher risk due to shared exposures, the risk to the general public remains “very small”. Dr Benjamin Brennan of the University of Glasgow emphasised that the World Health Organization (WHO) still needs to determine whether the infection was acquired in port or on board and whether limited person‑to‑person transmission occurred . ADVERTISEMENT Hantaviruses are zoonotic RNA viruses belonging to the order Bunyavirales. They co‑evolved with specific rodent hosts and are divided into Old World hantaviruses found in Europe and Asia and New World hantaviruses found in the Americas. Prof Sir Andrew Pollard of the University of Oxford explains that the New World viruses typically cause a life‑threatening respiratory illness called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, whereas Old World viruses tend to cause haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. Because different hantavirus species are tied to particular rodent hosts, most human cases involve exposure to rodent urine, faeces or saliva rather than direct contact with other people . Transmission occurs when people inhale aerosols generated from contaminated rodent excreta or, less commonly, through bites. Dr Giulia Gallo of the Pirbright Institute notes that household cleaning of rodent‑infested areas or touristic activities in endemic regions may create such exposures. ADVERTISEMENT Human‑to‑human transmission is extremely rare; experts stress that only the Andes strain has been documented to spread between people under conditions of close and prolonged contact. Once infected, patients often experience non‑specific, flu‑like symptoms including fever, muscle aches and headache before rapidly progressing to respiratory distress and shock in severe cases. New World hantavirus infections carry a case‑fatality rate of 30–40 percent, and there are no approved vaccines or specific antiviral treatments; care is supportive and usually requires intensive monitoring . 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 Visa and Entry Updates US B1/B2 Visa Revocations: What Africans Need to Know . Nigeria News Nigerian Army Raids IPOB/ESN Hideouts, Recovers IED Materials . Biography Who Was Babacar Mbaye Ndaak? Life, Career and Death . Accident News How Did Brandon Clarke Die? Latest Updates & Police Reports . Health News What Is Hantavirus? The Rare Virus Linked to Cruise Ship Deaths . ADVERTISEMENT Despite the alarming cluster on the MV Hondius, experts urge perspective. Dr Hammer reiterates that outbreaks usually arise from a single environmental exposure and that “human‑to‑human transmission is rare”. Prof Mark Fielder of Kingston University emphasises that strict infection‑control measures isolating infected patients, monitoring close contacts and enforcing hand hygiene can limit onward spread. The WHO reports that hantavirus infections remain uncommon globally and that, even in the Americas, only 229 cases were recorded in 2025 with a case‑fatality ratio of about 25 percent. By early May 2026, WHO and national authorities assessed the public‑health risk as low and focused on contact tracing, testing and quarantine to protect passengers and crew. For travellers, avoiding contact with rodents and their excreta and seeking prompt medical care if symptoms appear are the main safeguards. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Visa and Entry Updates US B1/B2 Visa Revocations: What Africans Need to Know Up to 200,000 visitor visas could be revoked under a planned US policy targeting foreigners . Nigeria News Nigerian Army Raids IPOB/ESN Hideouts, Recovers IED Materials Troops raided suspected IPOB/ESN positions in Anambra, recovering guns, motorcycles and IED materials. . Biography Who Was Babacar Mbaye Ndaak? Life, Career and Death The Senegalese storyteller devoted his life to protecting and teaching Africa’s oral heritage. . Accident News How Did Brandon Clarke Die? Latest Updates & Police Reports Police are investigating Brandon Clarke’s sudden death as a possible overdose. . Tags World News World News Africa Africa Health Health
The draw for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers has set the stage for some exciting matchups. Reigning champions Ivory Coast, confident after their recent triumph, aim to reach the finals in Morocco. Nigeria, however, faces a challenging group in the qualifying draw held in Johannesburg. The Super Eagles are paired with Beni n, Rwanda, and Libya. Benin, coached by former Nigeria boss Gernot Rohr, recently defeated Nigeria 2-1 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Nigeria, now seeking a new manager after Finidi George's resignation, is yet to officially confirm his departure as he joined Rivers United. Ivory Coast, who secured their third continental title in February by defeating Nigeria in the delayed 2023 Afcon final, will compete against 2012 champions Zambia, Sierra Leone, and Chad. Elephants coach Emerse Fae, who helped conduct the draw, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. "We played against Zambia for the last Afcon qualifying and lost 3-0 away," Fae told BBC Sport Africa. "It will be a very difficult game, but knowing them will help us avoid the same mistakes." Speaking to Caf TV, Fae added, "The most important thing for me is we don't have long trips. It's going to be good." The 48 competing teams are divided into 12 groups of four, with the top two in each group advancing to the finals in Morocco. Hosts Morocco are assured of a place, meaning only one other team from their group, which includes Gabon, Central African Republic, and Lesotho, will qualify. The qualifiers are scheduled across six match days in September, October, and November this year. "I prefer to play all the games in a short time," Fae noted. "Playing each month is beneficial for us and allows ample time to prepare for the competition if we qualify." The 2025 Afcon finals will commence on December 21, 2025, and conclude on January 18, 2026. This scheduling marks the first time the tournament will take place over the Christmas and New Year period, overlapping with the Premier League's festive programme and UEFA Champions League match rounds. By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jul 5, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The draw for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers has set the stage for some exciting matchups. Reigning champions Ivory Coast, confident after their recent triumph, aim to reach the finals in Morocco. Nigeria, however, faces a challenging group in the qualifying draw held in Johannesburg. The Super Eagles are paired with Beni n, Rwanda, and Libya. Benin, coached by former Nigeria boss Gernot Rohr, recently defeated Nigeria 2-1 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Nigeria, now seeking a new manager after Finidi George's resignation, is yet to officially confirm his departure as he joined Rivers United. ADVERTISEMENT Ivory Coast, who secured their third continental title in February by defeating Nigeria in the delayed 2023 Afcon final, will compete against 2012 champions Zambia, Sierra Leone, and Chad. Elephants coach Emerse Fae, who helped conduct the draw, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. "We played against Zambia for the last Afcon qualifying and lost 3-0 away," Fae told BBC Sport Africa. "It will be a very difficult game, but knowing them will help us avoid the same mistakes." Speaking to Caf TV, Fae added, "The most important thing for me is we don't have long trips. It's going to be good." ADVERTISEMENT The 48 competing teams are divided into 12 groups of four, with the top two in each group advancing to the finals in Morocco. Hosts Morocco are assured of a place, meaning only one other team from their group, which includes Gabon, Central African Republic, and Lesotho, will qualify. The qualifiers are scheduled across six match days in September, October, and November this year. "I prefer to play all the games in a short time," Fae noted. "Playing each month is beneficial for us and allows ample time to prepare for the competition if we qualify." The 2025 Afcon finals will commence on December 21, 2025, and conclude on January 18, 2026. This scheduling marks the first time the tournament will take place over the Christmas and New Year period, overlapping with the Premier League's festive programme and UEFA Champions League match rounds. 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
- 10 Things to Expect When You Visit Hadzaland in Tanzania
Plan a respectful Hadzaland visit near Lake Eyasi with practical advice on guides, walking, hunting, photos, payments, roads, health and seasons. A visit to Hadzaland can be one of northern Tanzania’s most thoughtful cultural journeys, but only if it is planned as a meeting with living communities rather than a performance staged for outsiders. The Hadza, or Hadzabe, are contemporary Tanzanians whose hunting, gathering, language and land knowledge remain important parts of life around Lake Eyasi and the Yaeda Valley. Visitors commonly hear about dawn hunting walks, fire-making and archery. Those activities may form part of a visit, but they are not guaranteed, nor do they represent every Hadza person or every camp. Weather, seasonal foods, community priorities and the willingness of residents to receive guests can all change the day. What should you expect when visiting Hadzaland? Expect an early start, uneven tracks, walking through bush terrain, interpretation between languages and activities shaped by the season. A responsible visit requires community consent, clear photography rules and transparent payments. Treat hunting, food gathering and camp life as lived practices not entertainment guaranteed by a tour schedule. Before the Journey: What “Hadzaland” Means Hadzaland is an informal name for the Hadza homeland, not a fenced attraction, national park or single village. The University of Sheffield’s Hadza fieldsite places Hadza territory across roughly 4,000 square kilometres around Lake Eyasi in northern Tanzania’s Eastern Rift Valley. Academic mapping by Cambridge University Press describes the eastern Hadza area south and east of the lake, southwest of Ngorongoro Crater. This makes Lake Eyasi a logical extension to a northern-circuit journey, especially from the Karatu side, but it is not a quick roadside stop. Mang’ola was documented as the principal gateway for organised Hadza tourism in research conducted during the 2010s. Current camp locations, road conditions and reception arrangements must still be confirmed locally because Hadza camp membership and settlement patterns can be flexible. Before travelling, read XTRAfrica’s broader introduction to who the Hadza are . It helps prevent a common mistake: arriving with the idea that every Hadza family lives identically or has remained unchanged for centuries. 1. Your Day May Begin Before Sunrise Early departures are practical, not merely dramatic. Cooler morning hours are better for walking, and people undertaking daily activities may leave camp early. Haruna Yatsuka’s documented account of Hadza tourism found that visitor groups often arrived around 6 a.m. and spent several morning hours on activities. That research describes a historical pattern, not a timetable that every camp follows today. If you stay near Lake Eyasi the previous night, you reduce the pressure to race down rural roads in darkness from a distant lodge. Ask your guide when you must leave, how much night driving is involved and whether the community has agreed to the proposed arrival time. Pack a light layer for the cool start, then prepare for heat as the morning advances. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE 10 Things to Expect When You Visit Hadzaland in Tanzania By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 4, 2026 Aug 4, 2026 18 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A visit to Hadzaland can be one of northern Tanzania’s most thoughtful cultural journeys, but only if it is planned as a meeting with living communities rather than a performance staged for outsiders. The Hadza, or Hadzabe, are contemporary Tanzanians whose hunting, gathering, language and land knowledge remain important parts of life around Lake Eyasi and the Yaeda Valley. Visitors commonly hear about dawn hunting walks, fire-making and archery. Those activities may form part of a visit, but they are not guaranteed, nor do they represent every Hadza person or every camp. Weather, seasonal foods, community priorities and the willingness of residents to receive guests can all change the day. A visitor shares a relaxed moment with members of the Hadza community What should you expect when visiting Hadzaland? Expect an early start, uneven tracks, walking through bush terrain, interpretation between languages and activities shaped by the season. A responsible visit requires community consent, clear photography rules and transparent payments. Treat hunting, food gathering and camp life as lived practices not entertainment guaranteed by a tour schedule. Before the Journey: What “Hadzaland” Means Hadzaland is an informal name for the Hadza homeland, not a fenced attraction, national park or single village. The University of Sheffield’s Hadza fieldsite places Hadza territory across roughly 4,000 square kilometres around Lake Eyasi in northern Tanzania’s Eastern Rift Valley. Academic mapping by Cambridge University Press describes the eastern Hadza area south and east of the lake, southwest of Ngorongoro Crater. This makes Lake Eyasi a logical extension to a northern-circuit journey, especially from the Karatu side, but it is not a quick roadside stop. Mang’ola was documented as the principal gateway for organised Hadza tourism in research conducted during the 2010s. Current camp locations, road conditions and reception arrangements must still be confirmed locally because Hadza camp membership and settlement patterns can be flexible. Before travelling, read XTRAfrica’s broader introduction to who the Hadza are . It helps prevent a common mistake: arriving with the idea that every Hadza family lives identically or has remained unchanged for centuries. 1. Your Day May Begin Before Sunrise Early departures are practical, not merely dramatic. Cooler morning hours are better for walking, and people undertaking daily activities may leave camp early. Haruna Yatsuka’s documented account of Hadza tourism found that visitor groups often arrived around 6 a.m. and spent several morning hours on activities. That research describes a historical pattern, not a timetable that every camp follows today. The dry bush country around Lake Eyasi forms part of Hadzaland in northern Tanzania. Distances, dust and rough tracks can make travelling here slower than the map suggests. Photo: kiwiexplorer/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. If you stay near Lake Eyasi the previous night, you reduce the pressure to race down rural roads in darkness from a distant lodge. Ask your guide when you must leave, how much night driving is involved and whether the community has agreed to the proposed arrival time. Pack a light layer for the cool start, then prepare for heat as the morning advances. 2. Expect a Walk, Not a Choreographed Safari Morning at Kidawanji, a Hadza community in northern Tanzania. Visits frequently begin early, when the air is cooler and people are preparing for the day’s activities. Photo: Masele Czeus25/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. A community visit may include walking through dry woodland, thorny scrub, rocky ground or sandy tracks. The distance and pace depend on the camp, weather, activity and group. Closed shoes, long lightweight trousers, sun protection and drinking water are more useful than formal safari clothing. Do not assume that every traveller can complete the same route. Reliable public information about wheelchair access, toilets, seating and step-free camp access is insufficient. Travellers with limited mobility should request precise answers about walking distance, surface, vehicle approach and rest options before paying a deposit. A responsible operator should be willing to shorten the walk without pressuring the community to relocate an activity for convenience. ADVERTISEMENT 3. A Hunting Walk Does Not Guarantee a Kill Hadza hunters follow a narrow bush path in Tanzania. Visitors joining a guided walk should expect uneven ground, thorny vegetation and a pace determined by the terrain and their community hosts. Photo: Arnold Tibaijuka/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Some visits include accompanying Hadza men as they track small animals or look for signs in the landscape. The value of the walk lies in observing skill, movement and environmental knowledge not in demanding a successful kill. Yatsuka’s study of hunting and tourism found that tourist outings often focused on small animals and did not contribute greatly to the camp’s food supply. Visitors are observers. Do not chase animals, request a staged kill or handle arrows, knives or other equipment without permission. Anyone uncomfortable with hunting should tell the operator before booking and ask whether a gathering walk, landscape interpretation or conversation in camp is possible instead. XTRAfrica’s guide to Hadza hunting tools, honey and material culture provides useful background without reducing Hadza life to hunting alone. 4. What People Gather and Eat Changes with the Season Hadza archers demonstrate bow skills near Lake Eyasi, Tanzania. What visitors observe depends on the day, and neither wildlife encounters nor a successful hunt should ever be treated as guaranteed entertainment. Photo: Woodlouse/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Hadzaland does not offer a fixed tasting menu. Wild foods depend on location, rain, availability and the choices of the people gathering them. Research summarised by Stanford Medicine describes a seasonal pattern: meat, baobab and tubers had greater relative importance in the dry period, while berries, honey, tubers and baobab were prominent in the wet period. Tubers and baobab were available across the year in that study. You may learn how edible plants are located or how tubers are dug, but seeing or tasting a specific food should never be promised. Ask before eating anything and do not take plant material away. Food has practical and social meaning; XTRAfrica’s account of why the Hadza share food explains why a meal cannot be treated as a prop for photographs. 5. You Will Probably Need an Interpreter A Hadza man creates fire using a wooden drill and friction in a prepared piece of soft wood. Fire-making is one of the practical skills visitors may be shown during a community-hosted experience. Photo: BrixL/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Hadzane includes click consonants and is central to Hadza identity. The Sheffield fieldsite notes that many Hadza also speak Swahili, but language ability varies. Most international visitors will therefore depend on a local guide who can interpret both words and context. A good interpreter does more than translate questions. They should explain when a subject is private, when a photograph is inappropriate and whether residents have finished answering. Speak to people, not only to the guide, and leave pauses for interpretation. Do not turn click sounds into a party trick or insist that someone repeat words for a video. XTRAfrica’s feature on Hadza language and its meaning is a useful primer before the journey. 6. Familiar Demonstrations Are Only a Small Part of Hadza Life Smaller arrows made for Hadza children demonstrate how archery knowledge and practical bush skills can be introduced from an early age and passed between generations. Photo: Charming lifetouch/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Fire-making, archery, song, dance and craft sales commonly appear in descriptions of Hadza visits. They can be meaningful exchanges when residents choose to share them, but a short demonstration is not a complete picture of a society. The Hadza also navigate education, healthcare, market contact, mobile phones, land pressure, conservation and relationships with neighbouring communities. Avoid asking whether what you see is “real” or “authentic.” Tourism itself is now part of life in some eastern camps. A better question is who chose the activity, what it means outside the visitor encounter and whether participation is voluntary. Residents may also decline, change the order or end an activity. That is normal consent, not poor service. 7. Photography Requires a Fresh Yes, Not a Blanket Assumption Paying for a tour does not automatically purchase the right to photograph everyone present. Ask before photographing an individual, a child, a home, food preparation, hunting, dance or a close-up of personal objects. Permission for one image does not necessarily cover video, drone footage or commercial publication. ADVERTISEMENT A Hadza family stands outside a home built from locally available branches and vegetation in Tanzania. Camp structures are generally practical and lightly constructed, reflecting the community’s close relationship with its surroundings. Photo: Calvin pro7/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Agree on the process with your guide before entering camp: who will ask, how a refusal will be communicated and whether any photography payment is included. Put the camera down during introductions. If someone changes their mind, stop. Never photograph children simply because an adult guide said the whole camp was open to cameras; seek consent through the appropriate parent or caregiver and the person being photographed. 8. Tourism Income Can Help, but It May Not Reach Everyone Equally Ask exactly where your payment goes. The 2017 peer-reviewed record of Hadza attitudes toward tourism found that souvenir income varied significantly between individuals, even though tourism also gave some Hadza greater choice in how they engaged with neighbouring economies. This makes payment transparency a practical ethical issue. A large baobab incorporated into a Hadza family site near Lake Eyasi Hadza hunters Request an itemised quote in Tanzanian shillings stating the community contribution, guide fee, transport and any activity charges. No current authoritative, destination-wide standard tariff could be verified for this article, so reconfirm the total before booking. Buy crafts directly from their makers when possible, pay the agreed price and avoid distributing sweets, alcohol, medicines or cash randomly. Gifts can create conflict or bypass community decisions. 9. Land Rights and Conservation Belong in the Conversation The woodland is not an empty backdrop. It supplies food, medicine, materials, water access and space for mobility. Farming expansion, grazing, settlement and other land pressures have shaped Hadza life for decades. The Yaeda–Eyasi project record maintained by Plan Vivo says its work covers Hadza hunter-gatherer and Datooga pastoralist communities and links village land-use plans with forest management. Hadza women dance together in Tanzania. Song and dance may form part of a community-hosted encounter, but participation, filming and photography should always follow the guidance and consent of the people involved. Photo: Imani Selemani Nsamila/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Visitors should therefore avoid presenting Hadza mobility as aimless wandering. It is connected to resources, social choice and land access. Do not collect plants, stones, arrowheads or archaeological material. For deeper context, XTRAfrica’s reporting on Hadza land rights in modern Tanzania explains why communal tenure and landscape protection matter to the future of Hadzaland. 10. Roads, Facilities and Connectivity Can Be Basic The final approach may involve unpaved rural tracks, dust in dry conditions and mud or delays after rain. Tanzania’s current FCDO road and weather guidance warns that road surfaces can deteriorate in rainy periods and that heavy rain can make dirt tracks hazardous or impassable. That is national guidance, not proof of a closure at Lake Eyasi, so ask for a same-week local road report. Expect limited toilets, shade, medical access, card payment and mobile coverage once away from established accommodation. Carry water, sun protection, insect repellent, a small personal first-aid kit and the cash agreed with your operator. The CDC Tanzania travel-health page currently advises travellers to discuss malaria prevention and other vaccinations with a clinician; it also notes that rabies treatment may be harder to obtain outside larger centres. Do not touch dogs or wild animals. Planning Questions to Ask Before You Book Use these questions to distinguish a thoughtful visit from a vague “tribe tour”: Has the receiving community agreed to this date, group size and activity plan? Is the interpreter known to the camp, and which languages do they speak? How are the community contribution, guide fee and craft payments divided? Is hunting included, optional or replaced by another activity? What are the current road conditions, vehicle type and night-driving plan? What walking distance, terrain, toilets and rest options should we expect? What are the rules for portraits, children, video, drones and commercial use? What happens if rain, wildlife movement or community priorities change the visit? Check whether the tour company appears in Tanzania’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism operator register , then verify its current licence details directly. Also review XTRAfrica’s Tanzania travel guide before fitting Lake Eyasi into a northern-circuit route. Reconfirm fees, roads, health advice, access and community availability immediately before booking and again shortly before departure. 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 A Good Hadzaland Visit Leaves Room for “No” The strongest visit is not the one that collects every promised photograph or demonstration. It is the one in which residents retain control over the time, activity and images they share. Arrive prepared to walk and listen, but also prepared for weather, movement or consent to alter the plan. Hadzaland rewards curiosity, yet it asks something in return: recognise the Hadza as neighbours, guides, craftspeople, parents, workers and rights-holders living in the present. If your operator cannot explain who benefits, who grants access or how refusals are handled, choose another arrangement. FAQs Is Hadzaland a national park? No. Hadzaland is an informal term for the Hadza homeland around Lake Eyasi and the Yaeda Valley. It is a lived cultural landscape containing community land, villages, camps and neighbouring peoples not a single gated attraction. Can I visit the Hadza without a guide? Independent arrival is not recommended. A locally connected guide and interpreter helps arrange consent, locate the receiving camp, navigate rural tracks and explain photography and payment rules. Use a currently licensed operator and ask how the community participates in planning. Will I definitely see a hunt? No. A hunting walk depends on the community’s plan, season, local conditions and personal willingness. Wildlife sightings and a successful hunt cannot be guaranteed. Ask for a non-hunting alternative before booking if you are uncomfortable observing subsistence hunting. What should I wear for a Hadza community visit? Choose closed walking shoes, long lightweight trousers, a breathable shirt, a hat and sun protection. Carry a light layer for the early morning. Neutral, practical clothing is sufficient; costume-style “tribal” clothing is inappropriate. How much does a Hadzaland visit cost? There is no authoritative destination-wide standard price verified for August 2026. Request a written, itemised quote in Tanzanian shillings covering transport, guide, interpreter, community contribution and activities. Ask what is refundable if weather or community availability changes the plan. When is the best time to visit? Visits are possible in different seasons, but the experience changes. Rain can affect tracks and walking, while foods and gathering activities vary across the year. Choose dates for your wider Tanzania route, then obtain a current Lake Eyasi road and activity report instead of expecting one fixed “best” month. Sources and Further Reading University of Sheffield, Culture and the Mind: Hadza fieldsite Nicholas Blurton Jones, Geography and Ecology in the Eyasi Basin , Cambridge University Press, 2016 Haruna Yatsuka, Sustainable Hunting as Commodity: The Case of Tanzania’s Hadza Hunter-Gatherers , 2018 Haruna Yatsuka, Attitude of the Hadza Hunter-Gatherers toward Tourism in Tanzania , Journal of African Studies, 2017 Stanford Medicine, Hunter-gatherers of Tanzania experience seasonal variation in gut-microbe diversity , 2017 Plan Vivo, Yaeda–Eyasi Landscape, Tanzania UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Tanzania safety and security US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Tanzania traveller health Tanzania Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Tour operator register 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 Visiting Tanzania Visiting Tanzania The Hadza Tribe The Hadza Tribe
- Burkina Faso says it foiled assassination plot against Traoré
Burkina Faso’s military government says it foiled a plot to assassinate leader Ibrahim Traoré, accusing ex-leader Damiba of involvement. Burkina Faso’s military government says it has stopped an alleged plot to kill its leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré , who took power in September 2022. In a statement broadcast on national television, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana said intelligence services intercepted the plan just before it was due to be executed late on Saturday 3 January. The alleged conspiracy planned to assassinate the 37‑year‑old junta head and then attack key state institutions, highlighting persistent instability in the West African nation. What officials allege Sana told state broadcaster RTB that the plot involved targeted assassinations of senior military and civilian officials, starting with an attempt on Traoré’s life either at close range or by planting explosives at his residence. He said the plotters also intended to disable a drone‑launch base and create conditions for an external military intervention. According to Sana, the operation was due to begin at around 23:00 local time on 3 January, and other key figures were on the hit list as reported by BBC Africa The minister named Lt Col Paul‑Henri Sandaogo Damiba, the former transitional president who was ousted by Traoré in September 2022, as the principal suspect . He alleged that Damiba recruited soldiers and civilians to form operational cells and mobilise supporters. Sana accused the former leader of raising funds for the operation, citing a reported 70 million CFA francs (about US$125,000) delivered from neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire, though he provided no documentary evidence. Sana said confession videos of some of those arrested would be released and that investigators were continuing to identify and detain suspects. No timeline for prosecutions has been given, and there has been no response from Damiba or from the Ivorian authorities to the allegations. Sana urged citizens to remain calm and not be drawn into “dangerous schemes” while the probe continues. Broader context Traoré seized power on 30 September 2022, toppling Damiba, who himself had led a coup against elected president Roch Marc Christian Kaboré eight months earlier . Since then, the junta has repeatedly reported plots against it. On 7 January 2026 the minister said the latest operation was the most sophisticated yet, involving what he described as civil, military and foreign actors. The government did not disclose how many people were arrested, but it said all suspects would be handed over to prosecutors and promised “the full force of the law”. Continue Reading Full Article OPPOSITION POLITICS Burkina Faso says it foiled assassination plot against Traoré By Sebastiane Ebatamehi Pan-African Analyst & Content Strategist Sebastiane Ebatamehi Home Comment Jan 7, 2026 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Burkina Faso’s military government says it has stopped an alleged plot to kill its leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré , who took power in September 2022. In a statement broadcast on national television, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana said intelligence services intercepted the plan just before it was due to be executed late on Saturday 3 January. The alleged conspiracy planned to assassinate the 37‑year‑old junta head and then attack key state institutions, highlighting persistent instability in the West African nation. What officials allege Sana told state broadcaster RTB that the plot involved targeted assassinations of senior military and civilian officials, starting with an attempt on Traoré’s life either at close range or by planting explosives at his residence. He said the plotters also intended to disable a drone‑launch base and create conditions for an external military intervention. According to Sana, the operation was due to begin at around 23:00 local time on 3 January, and other key figures were on the hit list as reported by BBC Africa ADVERTISEMENT The minister named Lt Col Paul‑Henri Sandaogo Damiba, the former transitional president who was ousted by Traoré in September 2022, as the principal suspect . He alleged that Damiba recruited soldiers and civilians to form operational cells and mobilise supporters. Sana accused the former leader of raising funds for the operation, citing a reported 70 million CFA francs (about US$125,000) delivered from neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire, though he provided no documentary evidence. Sana said confession videos of some of those arrested would be released and that investigators were continuing to identify and detain suspects. No timeline for prosecutions has been given, and there has been no response from Damiba or from the Ivorian authorities to the allegations. Sana urged citizens to remain calm and not be drawn into “dangerous schemes” while the probe continues. ADVERTISEMENT Broader context Traoré seized power on 30 September 2022, toppling Damiba, who himself had led a coup against elected president Roch Marc Christian Kaboré eight months earlier . Since then, the junta has repeatedly reported plots against it. On 7 January 2026 the minister said the latest operation was the most sophisticated yet, involving what he described as civil, military and foreign actors. The government did not disclose how many people were arrested, but it said all suspects would be handed over to prosecutors and promised “the full force of the law”. Burkina Faso faces mounting security challenges amid an insurgency by jihadist groups linked to al‑Qaeda and the Islamic State. Millions have been displaced and large parts of the country remain outside government control. Civil liberties have also deteriorated since the military takeover: a Freedom House report for 2024 noted that the junta suspended multiple news outlets, postponed elections indefinitely and used conscription to silence critics. The alleged coup plot underscores the fragile political environment in Burkina Faso. Supporters of Traoré have rallied behind his pan‑Africanist rhetoric and criticism of Western influence, while opponents accuse the junta of authoritarianism and repression. Analysts say repeated coup claims and the government’s focus on external funding sources may further strain relations with neighbours such as Côte d’Ivoire. 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 Justice & Crime Inside DRC’s Operation to Bring Denise Dusauchoy to Kinshasa . Rwanda Politics Kagame Sides With Journalist Against His Own Foreign Minister . Natural Disasters Guinea Landfill Landslide Kills 30 as Search Continues . Justice & Crime Niger Governor Orders Rescue of Worshippers Abducted in Borgu . Biography DJ Maphorisa Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise . ADVERTISEMENT The security minister’s promise to release confession videos suggests officials are keen to demonstrate transparency, though independent verification of the allegations will be crucial for credibility . Background on reporting This aggregated account draws on verified statements from officials broadcast on state television and corroborated by international news agencies . Source: BBC News ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Justice & Crime Inside DRC’s Operation to Bring Denise Dusauchoy to Kinshasa How a DRC warrant, Tanzanian cooperation and a reported private jet brought Denise Dusauchoy . Rwanda Politics Kagame Sides With Journalist Against His Own Foreign Minister Kagame said Olivier Nduhungirehe, not journalist Scovia Umutesi, should have apologized. . Natural Disasters Guinea Landfill Landslide Kills 30 as Search Continues Rescuers are searching for survivors after a massive waste collapse buried homes in Conakry. . Justice & Crime Niger Governor Orders Rescue of Worshippers Abducted in Borgu Governor Bago orders intensified rescue efforts as officials verify how many worshippers were abducted. . Tags Trending News Trending News Africa Africa Burkina Faso Burkina Faso BBC NEWS BBC NEWS Pana-Africa Pana-Africa Ibrahim Traoré Ibrahim Traoré











