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Uganda Holds Dominance in Cecafa Zone as per Latest FIFA Rankings Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 5, 2024 ​ In a noteworthy development in African football, Uganda continues to lead the pack in the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (Cecafa) Zone according to the recent FIFA rankings unveiled this Thursday. With a stable position at 92nd globally, Uganda boasts 124.15 points, securing its 19th place in the African continent's football hierarchy. Despite facing a challenging phase with a 4-0 loss to Comoros and a 2-2 stalemate against Ghana in friendly matches held in Marrakech, Morocco, last month, Uganda's football team has managed to maintain its standing. These matches, critical for assessing team dynamics and strategies, did not impact Uganda's prestigious position in the Cecafa Zone or its global ranking. Argentina continues to lead the global rankings with a commanding 1,858 points, showcasing the country's football excellence. On the African front, Morocco, despite a slight drop, remains the highest-ranked team on the continent, now standing at 13th with 1,661.42 points. In the Cecafa Zone, following Uganda closely is Kenya, which has seen a remarkable rise in the FIFA rankings. Climbing four spots to secure the 107th position globally, Kenya now has 1,191.24 points. This ascent is attributed to the Harambee Starlets' impressive performance in the Four-Nation tournament in Malawi, where they clinched victories against Malawi and Zimbabwe. Tanzania and Sudan are also key players in the Cecafa Zone, holding their ground in the FIFA rankings at 119th and 127th places, respectively. These rankings reflect the competitive spirit and the evolving football landscape in the East and Central African region. The Cecafa Zone, a vibrant football community, comprises 12 member countries: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Djibouti, Somalia, Eritrea, and the Caf Associate member Zanzibar. This region is known for its passionate embrace of football, fostering talent that competes on both continental and global stages. As the football community digests these rankings, the focus remains on how teams from the Cecafa Zone will leverage this benchmark to enhance their performance in upcoming international engagements. The rankings not only reflect the current state of football prowess in the region but also set the stage for future aspirations and achievements in the beautiful game . 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

World Bank Approves $208 Million Grant for Zambia's Drought Relief Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 3, 2024 ​ The World Bank has approved a $208 million grant for Zambia to address the social and economic impact of the severe drought affecting the southern African nation. The finance ministry announced this development on Tuesday. Southern Africa is currently experiencing its worst drought in years, a situation exacerbated by the naturally occurring El Niño phenomenon and increased average temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions. The drought has severely impacted food production and the livelihoods of millions of people in Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, leading all three countries to declare a state of disaster. The World Bank's grant aims to assist Zambia in mitigating the drought's effects by providing additional temporary cash payments to affected households. According to the finance ministry, the support will reach over 1.6 million households across 84 drought-impacted districts over a 12-month period. In addition to direct financial assistance, the World Bank funding will bolster existing social protection programs, enhancing Zambia's ability to respond effectively to the crisis. This funding follows the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) decision last month to increase its financial support for Zambia from $1.3 billion to $1.7 billion to help the nation manage the drought's impact. 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

EU Commits €1 Billion Loan to Egypt to Bolster Economy Amidst Regional Challenges Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 13, 2024 ​ Cairo, Egypt – The European Union announced on Friday a significant financial commitment of over $1 billion to Egypt, aiming to provide short-term economic relief. This loan is part of a broader financial package valued at €5 billion, designed to support Egypt through various regional and international challenges. EU's Financial Support Strategy for Egypt The €1 billion loan is the initial segment of a larger plan set to unfold until 2027. The EU plans to extend an additional €4 billion between 2024 and 2027, underlining a robust partnership aimed at economic stability and growth in Egypt. Context and Implications of the Financial Aid This financial aid comes at a crucial time for Egypt, as the country navigates through the economic repercussions of multiple crises. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, Houthi incursions in the Red Sea, and the global economic disturbances following the war in Ukraine have significantly impacted Egypt’s fiscal stability. Conditions and Expectations The EU's financial support is contingent upon Egypt’s continued progress toward enhancing democratic governance and upholding human rights standards. The European Union emphasizes , " The need for Egypt to take concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms, including a multi-party parliamentary system, and the rule of law," as well as ensuring human rights are protected. Broader Financial Engagements In addition to the EU’s commitment, Egypt secured an expanded support programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last month, amounting to $8 billion. This is alongside another €8 billion deal with the EU, introduced in March, which aims to foster cooperation and mitigate migration issues from North Africa . 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

Yaba Buluku Boyz Release Debut Album "Donsa" Featuring Pan-African Collaborations Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Apr 28, 2024 Mozambique's dynamic music trio, Yaba Buluku Boyz, This trio has officially launched their first studio album titled "Donsa." Available on all major digital streaming platforms, this 15-track debut album showcases the diverse musical heritage of Mozambique and highlights the unity of African music. Fans can stream and download "Donsa" here Album Details and Collaborations Produced by the renowned DJ Tárico and released under Geobek Records, "Donsa" features an impressive lineup of songs including hits like ‘Billions’, ‘Sontwene’, ‘Tsunami’, and ‘Away’. The album not only marks the group's significant return in 2023 but also includes collaborations with notable African artists such as Jux from Tanzania, Harmonize also from Tanzania, and Nigeria's Iyanya. About Yaba Buluku Boyz Composed of DJ Tárico, Nelson Tivane, and Preck, the Yaba Buluku Boyz have been instrumental in putting Mozambican music on the global map. With a unique sound that blends traditional Mozambican rhythms with modern beats, they continue to foster connections across African communities, celebrating the continent's rich musical landscape. Since their formation in 2021, the trio has worked with African music giants like Burna Boy, Falz, Yemi Alade, Crayon, and Jah Prayzah. Their ability to seamlessly integrate various African music styles has earned them nominations at prestigious awards such as AFRIMA and has seen them perform at major events and festivals worldwide. A Celebration of African Unity Through Music "Donsa" is more than just an album; it's a celebration of African unity and cultural exchange. Geobek Records expresses immense pride in introducing this groundbreaking project from its flagship artists, stating, "The celebration of African unity is here with 'Donsa.'" For the latest updates on Yaba Buluku Boyz and their tour dates, follow them on social media and their official website. Fans and new listeners alike are invited to experience the rhythm and spirit of Mozambique through the vibrant tracks of "Donsa." 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

AfCFTA's Struggle: Africa's Global Trade Share Remains at 3% reports say Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 4, 2024 ​ A view of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) headquarters, the epicenter for strategizing Africa's trade elevation Africa's global trade share remains under 3%, largely influenced by merchandise trade in 2023, according to a recent Economic Commission for Africa report. Despite efforts towards regional integration, African countries still predominantly trade with non-African nations. The report highlights a lag in meeting macroeconomic convergence criteria and notes minimal progress in intra-African trade since the launch of the African Continental Free Trade Area in 2021, with intra-African trade decreasing slightly from 2021 to 2022. Infrastructure developments in roads and ICT have advanced, but rail and energy sectors face challenges, primarily due to funding shortages. ECA's Regional Integration and Trade Division Director, Stephen Karingi, points out that governance issues, poverty, and unemployment remain significant hurdles. He emphasizes that the success of the free trade area depends on effective implementation to harness the benefits of market and trade integration across Africa. Addressing the infrastructure funding gap, estimated between $130bn and $170bn annually, experts suggest innovative financing methods like blended finance, sustainability-focused bonds, and debt-for-nature swaps to support Africa's trade and integration efforts. You can also read our Xtrafrica article about the goals of African Continental Free Trade Area 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

UN Peacekeepers Successfully Rescue Five Civilians in Eastern DR Congo Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 17, 2024 ​ UN's peacekeeping forces in addressing security challenges in conflict-prone areas. In a significant intervention in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), United Nations peacekeepers have successfully facilitated the release of five civilians who had been abducted by an armed group. This rescue underscores the vital role of the UN's peacekeeping forces in addressing security challenges in conflict-prone areas. On a recent mission near Djugu in the Ituri province, peacekeepers from the UN mission known as MONUSCO acted swiftly to rescue the abducted individuals, including a woman and two minors. The operation highlighted the ongoing security issues in the region, where armed groups frequently disrupt civilian life. Following their release, the rescued civilians received immediate shelter and medical care provided by MONUSCO. The peacekeeping team then safely transported them back to their homes, ensuring their reintegration with family and community. Alongside the rescue, MONUSCO's presence in Ituri extends to other critical areas. In response to an attack by the Codeco armed group at a local mining site northeast of Bunia, which tragically resulted in four civilian deaths, peacekeepers have been deployed to safeguard vulnerable communities and monitor ongoing threats. The situation remains tense in the neighboring North Kivu province, where conflicts between the M23 armed group and Congolese armed forces have intensified. MONUSCO has established a presence in strategic areas, including near the town of Sake, to support the Congolese army in stabilizing the situation. Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, is currently visiting the DRC at the government's invitation. His itinerary includes meetings with internally displaced persons, human rights defenders, and senior officials, including President Felix Tshisekedi, to discuss human rights issues and strengthen collaborations. The ongoing efforts of UN peacekeepers in the DRC are crucial in mitigating the impact of armed conflicts and aiding affected civilians. The international community continues to watch closely as MONUSCO and other entities strive to bring lasting peace and security to the region. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Russian military personnel have recently entered an airbase in Niger that hostsed U.S. troops. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 3, 2024 ​ Russian military personnel have entered an air base in Niger Russian military personnel have entered an airbase in Niger that hosts some U.S. troops, according to U.S. officials. The move comes after Niger’s junta ordered the expulsion of American forces. Although Russian and U.S. troops are not directly mingling, they are in close proximity at Airbase 101 near Niamey, Niger’s capital. This development occurs amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and Russia over the conflict in Ukraine. The fate of U.S. installations in Niger remains uncertain following the withdrawal. Meanwhile, Russia seeks to strengthen relations with African nations, positioning itself as a friendly country without colonial baggage. Mali, a close Russian ally, hosts the Wagner Group mercenary force. 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

Tshisekedi and Kagame agree to meet, Angola FM says Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Serge Kabongo Mar 12, 2024 ​ Rwanda and DRC Presidents to Hold Talks Mediated by Angola in Effort to Resolve Great Lakes Conflict In a significant development towards resolving the ongoing conflict in the Great Lakes region, the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, and his Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) counterpart, Félix Tshisekedi, have agreed to a meeting to address the issues between their respective countries. The announcement was made by the Angolan foreign minister, who will serve as the mediator to determine the date and place of the meeting. The conflict between Rwanda and the DRC has been a longstanding issue, with tensions escalating in recent years due to the resurgence of the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in eastern DRC. The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, a claim that Rwanda has vehemently denied. The conflict has led to the displacement of over 100,000 people and caused significant humanitarian crises in the region. The upcoming meeting between President Kagame and President Tshisekedi is a crucial step towards finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The Angolan government, led by President João Lourenço, has been actively involved in mediating the crisis, with Lourenço being appointed as the African Union's mediator. The agreement to hold the meeting comes after a series of mini-summits and discussions between the two leaders, most recently during a meeting in Luanda, Angola's capital, between President Kagame and President Lourenco. The Angolan foreign minister, Tete Antonio, stated that both Rwanda and the DRC had agreed to the principle of holding the meeting, with ministerial delegations from both sides working towards this goal. The upcoming meeting presents an opportunity for both countries to address the allegations and explore avenues for constructive collaboration in resolving the crisis. The international community has welcomed the development, with many expressing hope that the meeting will pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region. As the date and location of the meeting are yet to be determined, all eyes are on the Angolan mediator to facilitate a successful dialogue between the two leaders. The success of the meeting could have far-reaching implications for the region, potentially leading to the resolution of one of Africa's most complex and longstanding conflicts. 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

Police Deploy Tear Gas Amid Cost-of-Living Protests in Benin Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 28, 2024 ​ The demonstrators, organized by several influential trade unions Escalating tensions erupted into chaos as police in Benin fired tear gas to disrupt a major protest over the soaring cost of living on Saturday. The demonstration, organized by several influential trade unions, was met with a stern response, including the arrest of prominent union leaders. Armed police established blockades around the labour council's headquarters in Cotonou, preventing access to the scheduled protest site and turning away members of the press. Despite these measures, groups of protesters managed to assemble nearby, voicing their grievances through placards and union attire. Among the arrested were Moudassirou Bachabi, leader of the General Confederation of Workers of Benin (CGTB), and Anselme Amoussou, head of CSA-Benin, as confirmed by CGTB deputy general secretary Anita Bossoukpe. In total, 18 demonstrators were detained, further intensifying the standoff. "The cost of basic necessities is just too high," said Clemence Akinocho, a protester. This sentiment is widespread as Benin struggles with inflation, particularly in essential goods such as corn, gari flour, beans, and cowpeas. Despite a recent increase, the guaranteed minimum wage in Benin remains a modest 52,000 CFA francs ($85) per month, insufficient to keep pace with escalating prices. This unrest comes at a time when the International Monetary Fund highlights a lackluster economic recovery in sub-Saharan Africa, with incomes lagging significantly behind global averages. As Benin faces economic challenges, the government's strategy, including a new sovereign dollar bond, is under scrutiny. The community and its leaders call for meaningful reforms to address the deepening economic divide. 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

Remembering a Legend - The Death of Mr. Ibu Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Joel Arnold Mar 3, 2024 ​ Mr. Ibu photo IBU Instagram Today, the world mourns the loss of a true legend in the entertainment industry. John Okafor , better known as Mr. Ibu, passed away at the age of 62. The Nigerian actor, who rose to fame in the early 2000s, was loved by millions for his comedic talent and unforgettable performances. Mr. Ibu's death has left a void in the hearts of his fans and colleagues. Many have taken to social media to express their grief and share their favorite memories of the iconic actor. From his hilarious antics in the film "Mr. Ibu" to his heartwarming scenes in "Family Ties," Mr. Ibu's talent and charm captured the hearts of audiences everywhere. The cause of Mr. Ibu's death has not been officially confirmed, but some reports suggest that he suffered a cardiac arrest. This tragic loss serves as a reminder to cherish the time we have with our loved ones and to celebrate the lives of those who have brought joy to our world. As we remember Mr. Ibu, let us also remember the countless hours of laughter and entertainment he brought to us all. Rest in peace, Mr. Ibu. You will be greatly missed, but your legacy will live on forever. 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

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will make Africa the world's largest free trade area and boost Africa's GDP. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 27, 2024 ​ Symbolic Tapestry of African Harmony covering the spirit of interconnectedness and the free flow of hope across Africa's vast landscapes (AfCFTA) The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) most times reffered to as (ZLECAF) is set to be a significant milestone for Africa, heralding what many experts and stakeholders are calling a "historic turning point" for the continent's economy. The initiative aims to create a single market for goods, services, capital, and people across Africa, thereby increasing intra-African trade, which has been relatively low compared to Africa's trade with other regions. This move is expected to have a substantial positive impact on Africa's overall GDP. A key aspect of ZLECAF's potential impact is the liberalization of tariff and non-tariff barriers, which would facilitate the free movement of goods and services across the continent. This could lead to a more diversified and sophisticated industrial and service sector in participating countries, driven by access to a larger continental market. For instance, Ivorian industries, among others, stand to gain significantly from this development, provided they are well-prepared to leverage the opportunities that the larger market presents. However, alongside these opportunities, some challenges need to be addressed to fully realize the benefits of ZLECAF. One of the primary concerns is the need for countries to improve their productive capacities and diversify their industrial offerings to compete effectively in the larger market. There is also a need for coherent and complementary commercial, industrial, and financial policies to support the implementation of ZLECAF. Moreover, the implementation of ZLECAF could lead to increased competition, necessitating that companies across Africa enhance their competitiveness. The success of this initiative will require a concerted effort from both public authorities and the private sector to prepare adequately for the changes and challenges ahead. In summary, the implementation of ZLECAF represents a transformative opportunity for Africa's economic integration and growth. By eliminating trade barriers and creating a single continental market, ZLECAF has the potential to significantly boost intra-African trade, contribute to economic diversification, and increase the continent's overall GDP. However, achieving these outcomes will depend on the ability of African countries and businesses to navigate the challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by this historic initiative. 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

Bridging Africa's Digital Divide by Enhancing Fixed Broadband Infrastructure Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 23, 2024 ​ A symbolic repesentation of Digital Economy Foresight for Africa and possible broadband extension As highlighted in the recent "Digital Economy Foresight Africa 2024" report, African nations are significantly trailing G20 countries in digital infrastructure, a cornerstone for economic development. This disparity underscores the urgent need for a robust digital transformation to harness the economic opportunities presented by the digital age. The Urgency of Expanding Fixed Broadband Access While the surge in mobile phone adoption across the continent signals a positive trend, the report emphasizes the critical need for fixed broadband to achieve high-speed internet access and enable effective digitization of businesses. Fixed broadband is essential not just for enhancing connectivity but also for ensuring that internet services are affordable and accessible to all, particularly marginalized communities. Strategic Initiatives for Policymakers To mitigate the digital divide, the report outlines several strategic actions for policymakers: Expand fixed broadband infrastructure to facilitate widespread access to high-speed internet. Enhance affordability by implementing regulatory measures such as price controls on essential digital services and promoting competitive practices among ICT firms. Focus on inclusive digital access by developing tailored strategies to reach underserved populations, including leveraging Universal Service Funds for infrastructure expansion in rural and impoverished areas. Promoting Digital Skills and Financial Inclusion The development of digital skills aligns with the growing demand in the digital economy and is vital for the workforce to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Additionally, promoting digital financial inclusion is crucial as it enables broader economic participation and fosters financial empowerment. Investing in digital infrastructure is not merely about technological upgrades but also about fostering an inclusive digital economy that propels economic growth and bridges the inequality gap. Policymakers play a pivotal role in this transformation, and their actions in 2024 will be decisive in positioning Africa on a path to resilient and inclusive digital advancement. 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