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- Museveni Inauguration Set for May 12 at Kololo
Gen Muhoozi inspected parade rehearsals as Kampala prepares for Museveni’s May 12 inauguration. Uganda’s security agencies have intensified preparations ahead of President Yoweri Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony scheduled for May 12 at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, with military and police commanders overseeing final rehearsals ahead of the event . Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba inspected parade rehearsals at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds and urged participating units to deliver a flawless performance during the inauguration ceremony. He described the parade as a reflection of the military’s discipline, readiness, and operational strength. According to officials present during the rehearsals, the event brought together senior commanders from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, Police, and Prisons Service, including Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba and Commissioner General of Prisons Johnson Byabashaija. Security agencies have also announced extensive deployment plans across Kampala and surrounding districts ahead of the ceremony. Uganda Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said tactical response teams, rapid intervention units, and static security personnel would be positioned in key areas to manage security and traffic movements. Several roads leading to Kololo are expected to face temporary restrictions, including John Babiha Avenue, Yusuf Lule Road, and parts of Entebbe Road. Authorities said diversions would be implemented to ease congestion as delegations and invited guests arrive for the ceremony. The inauguration is expected to attract regional and international delegations, with thousands of attendees anticipated at Kololo Independence Grounds. Museveni, who first came to power in 1986, secured another term following Uganda’s January presidential election . Continue Reading Full Article ELECTIONS MONITORING Museveni Inauguration Set for May 12 at Kololo By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 10, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Uganda’s security agencies have intensified preparations ahead of President Yoweri Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony scheduled for May 12 at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, with military and police commanders overseeing final rehearsals ahead of the event . Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba inspected parade rehearsals at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds and urged participating units to deliver a flawless performance during the inauguration ceremony. He described the parade as a reflection of the military’s discipline, readiness, and operational strength. ADVERTISEMENT According to officials present during the rehearsals, the event brought together senior commanders from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, Police, and Prisons Service, including Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba and Commissioner General of Prisons Johnson Byabashaija. Security agencies have also announced extensive deployment plans across Kampala and surrounding districts ahead of the ceremony. Uganda Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said tactical response teams, rapid intervention units, and static security personnel would be positioned in key areas to manage security and traffic movements. ADVERTISEMENT Several roads leading to Kololo are expected to face temporary restrictions, including John Babiha Avenue, Yusuf Lule Road, and parts of Entebbe Road. Authorities said diversions would be implemented to ease congestion as delegations and invited guests arrive for the ceremony. The inauguration is expected to attract regional and international delegations, with thousands of attendees anticipated at Kololo Independence Grounds. Museveni, who first came to power in 1986, secured another term following Uganda’s January presidential election . 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 Political Appointments Muhoozi Clarifies Uganda CDF Exit Plan: Has He Resigned? . Industry UDC Breaks Ground on Shs29bn Packaging Plant at Namanve . Energy and Power Kenya Power Maintenance: Areas Affected on 5 November . Healthcare System Uganda Heart Institute Seeks Equipment for Naguru Hospital . Refugees and Migration Uganda's $328m DRDIP II: Refugee District Funds Under Scrutiny . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Political Appointments Muhoozi Clarifies Uganda CDF Exit Plan: Has He Resigned? Muhoozi says he may hand over Uganda's military command but has not announced a resignation date. . Industry UDC Breaks Ground on Shs29bn Packaging Plant at Namanve Pamoja factory targets 1,000+ jobs and Uganda’s $500m packaging import bill . Energy and Power Kenya Power Maintenance: Areas Affected on 5 November Scheduled interruptions cover selected areas in Nairobi, Kisii, Kiambu, Mombasa and Kilifi. . Healthcare System Uganda Heart Institute Seeks Equipment for Naguru Hospital The tender includes installation and staff training, with patient opening still a separate milestone. . Tags Uganda Uganda Yoweri K. Museveni Yoweri K. Museveni Elections & Democracy Elections & Democracy
Tony Forbes, the father of the late rapper AKA (Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes), expressed that seeing the individuals accused of his son's murder brought him a sense of closure. Read Also: How Other 7 Suspects Arrested in Connection with AKA and Tibz Homicides The suspects appeared in court, where Tony Forbes attended the session alongside officials. He had previously imagined the appearance of those responsible for his son's death, and facing them in court was part of his healing process. The case has been postponed for further proceedings Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 6, 2024 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Tonny Forbes, The Father of AKA. Image/citizen Tony Forbes, the father of the late rapper AKA (Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes), expressed that seeing the individuals accused of his son's murder brought him a sense of closure. Read Also: How Other 7 Suspects Arrested in Connection with AKA and Tibz Homicides ADVERTISEMENT The suspects appeared in court, where Tony Forbes attended the session alongside officials. He had previously imagined the appearance of those responsible for his son's death, and facing them in court was part of his healing process. The case has been postponed for further proceedings ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags
- Listen | Tholukuthi MP3 Download Fakaza Here
Listen and download Tholukuthi (Clap Song) mp3 free by Jazzworx, GL_Ceejay & Thukuthela ft MaWhoo. Enjoy this Afro House hit with powerful clap beats today! Released: June 27, 2025 Artists: Jazzworx, GL_Ceejay, Thukuthela ft MaWhoo Views: Over 1.2 million on YouTube Genre: Afro House / Amapiano 🎶 About The Song Tholukuthi (Clap Song) is the energetic Afro House hit by Jazzworx, GL_Ceejay, and Thukuthela featuring MaWhoo. This track combines powerful clap beats with MaWhoo’s captivating vocals, making it a festival favourite and club anthem across South Africa and beyond. Fans call this song a certified HIT that keeps the streets dancing all night with its addictive amapiano-clap fusion. 💽 Download Tholukuthi (Clap Song) MP3 Here Download now and bring the festival vibe to your playlist with Tholukuthi (Clap Song) Check also Abantwana Bakho mp3 download here Listen | Tholukuthi MP3 Download Fakaza Here By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jul 10, 2025 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Released: June 27, 2025 Artists: Jazzworx, GL_Ceejay, Thukuthela ft MaWhoo Views: Over 1.2 million on YouTube Genre: Afro House / Amapiano ADVERTISEMENT 🎶 About The Song Tholukuthi (Clap Song) is the energetic Afro House hit by Jazzworx, GL_Ceejay, and Thukuthela featuring MaWhoo. This track combines powerful clap beats with MaWhoo’s captivating vocals, making it a festival favourite and club anthem across South Africa and beyond. Fans call this song a certified HIT that keeps the streets dancing all night with its addictive amapiano-clap fusion. 💽 Download Tholukuthi (Clap Song) MP3 Here ADVERTISEMENT Download now and bring the festival vibe to your playlist with Tholukuthi (Clap Song) Check also Abantwana Bakho mp3 download here 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 DJ Maphorisa Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise . Biography Ciza Biography: Age, Real Name, Parents, Songs & Isaka Rise . African Culture Big Zulu Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs, Albums & Awards . African Culture Zee Nxumalo Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise . Entertainment Tyla’s AMA Double Win Signals Africa’s Global Music Power . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography DJ Maphorisa Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise Meet the South African producer behind Scorpion Kings, “Khona,” “One Dance” and amapiano hits. . Biography Ciza Biography: Age, Real Name, Parents, Songs & Isaka Rise Discover Ciza's age, parents, early career, “Isaka (6am)” breakthrough, awards and 3-step sound. . African Culture Big Zulu Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs, Albums & Awards From Bergville taxi ranks to Inkabi Records, explore Big Zulu's age, music, awards and rise . African Culture Zee Nxumalo Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise Meet Zee Nxumalo: her age, real name, songs, awards and journey from viral covers to amapiano stardom. . Tags South Africa Musics South Africa Musics Musics Musics
- Police Hunt Gunmen After Johannesburg Mass Shooting kills 12
South African police are hunting gunmen after 12 people were killed in a Johannesburg informal settlement. South African police have launched a manhunt after gunmen killed 12 people and wounded nine others at the Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, Johannesburg, according to a BBC report . Police said more than 10 armed suspects were dropped off near a petrol station late Tuesday before entering the settlement and opening fire at several locations. The attackers fled in a white vehicle, and no arrests had been announced by Wednesday. The South African Police Service said the motive remains under investigation, while provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Tommy Mthombeni said investigators were also examining whether the attack may be connected to illegal mining activity in the area. It was also reported that police were exploring possible links to turf wars involving illegal mining gangs. Illegal mining has become a major security concern in parts of South Africa, especially around old gold-mining areas near Johannesburg. A previous local police operation at Jumpers Informal Settlement led to arrests linked to illegal mining, according to the local News . Authorities have not confirmed the identity of the suspects or the reason for the attack. Police say all possible leads are being followed as the search continues. Continue Reading Full Article CRIME PREVENTION Police Hunt Gunmen After Johannesburg Mass Shooting kills 12 By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 10, 2026 Jun 10, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: South African police have launched a manhunt after gunmen killed 12 people and wounded nine others at the Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, Johannesburg, according to a BBC report . Police said more than 10 armed suspects were dropped off near a petrol station late Tuesday before entering the settlement and opening fire at several locations. The attackers fled in a white vehicle, and no arrests had been announced by Wednesday. ADVERTISEMENT The South African Police Service said the motive remains under investigation, while provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Tommy Mthombeni said investigators were also examining whether the attack may be connected to illegal mining activity in the area. It was also reported that police were exploring possible links to turf wars involving illegal mining gangs. Illegal mining has become a major security concern in parts of South Africa, especially around old gold-mining areas near Johannesburg. A previous local police operation at Jumpers Informal Settlement led to arrests linked to illegal mining, according to the local News . ADVERTISEMENT Authorities have not confirmed the identity of the suspects or the reason for the attack. Police say all possible leads are being followed as the search continues. 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 Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Business Trends Killarney Mall Transfer Completed in R397.5 Million Deal . Elections Monitoring South Africa Election 2026: ANC Leads, MK Wins KZN Councils . Elections Monitoring South Africa Election Results: How to Read the Count . Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: Voting Hours, IDs and Ballots . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances Gauteng's DA lead and other council results show why the municipal count remains unsettled. . Business Trends Killarney Mall Transfer Completed in R397.5 Million Deal Octodec confirms the sale, while AJP’s plans include support for two black women entrepreneurs. . Elections Monitoring South Africa Election 2026: ANC Leads, MK Wins KZN Councils Early results show MK Party victories in KwaZulu-Natal and a Service Delivery Party breakthrough. . Elections Monitoring South Africa Election Results: How to Read the Count A practical guide to partial tallies, projections, ward winners and municipal council seats. . Tags South Africa South Africa South Africa News South Africa News
- Burna Boy Extends Record as Most Certified African Artist in NZ
Burna Boy extends his record as the most certified African artist in New Zealand after his collaboration “WGFT” earns gold certification. Nigerian global music star Burna Boy has extended his record as the most certified African artist in New Zealand after another one of his songs earned official recognition in the country. The latest milestone comes after “WGFT,” his collaboration with American rapper Gunna , received a gold certification in New Zealand. The recognition brings Burna Boy’s total number of certified records in the country to 16 plaques , further cementing his dominance among African artists in the market. New Zealand has become a consistent market of success for the Grammy-winning singer. Several of his songs and collaborations have achieved strong commercial performance, earning multiple certifications over the years. Among his most successful records in the country are “Last Last,” “Location” with Dave, “Own It” with Stormzy, “Be Honest” with Jorja Smith, “YE,” and “It’s Plenty.” These songs have collectively secured high-level certifications, including multiple platinum recognitions. In addition to these platinum records, Burna Boy has also accumulated 10 gold certifications in New Zealand. Songs such as “Sittin’ On Top Of The World,” “City Boys,” “Real Life” featuring Stormzy, and “Alone” from the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack have all contributed to his growing list of accolades in the country. The achievement highlights Burna Boy ’s role as one of the leading artists driving the global reach of Afrobeats . The Port Harcourt-born musician has built a reputation for major international success through chart performance, global streaming numbers, and large-scale concerts. In recent years, he has achieved several landmark touring milestones. In 2023, Burna Boy became the first African artist to headline and sell out a stadium in the United Kingdom , filling London Stadium with over 80,000 fans—an achievement he repeated in 2024. That same year, he also became the first African artist to headline a stadium in the United States after selling out Citi Field Stadium in New York. His international touring success continued in 2024 when he became the first non-Francophone African artist to headline and sell out the 80,000-capacity Stade de France in Paris . Burna Boy also holds records for some of the highest-grossing concerts by an African artist in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom , reflecting the scale of his global appeal. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Burna Boy Extends Record as Most Certified African Artist in NZ By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 8, 2026 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian global music star Burna Boy has extended his record as the most certified African artist in New Zealand after another one of his songs earned official recognition in the country. The latest milestone comes after “WGFT,” his collaboration with American rapper Gunna , received a gold certification in New Zealand. The recognition brings Burna Boy’s total number of certified records in the country to 16 plaques , further cementing his dominance among African artists in the market. New Zealand has become a consistent market of success for the Grammy-winning singer. Several of his songs and collaborations have achieved strong commercial performance, earning multiple certifications over the years. Among his most successful records in the country are “Last Last,” “Location” with Dave, “Own It” with Stormzy, “Be Honest” with Jorja Smith, “YE,” and “It’s Plenty.” These songs have collectively secured high-level certifications, including multiple platinum recognitions. ADVERTISEMENT In addition to these platinum records, Burna Boy has also accumulated 10 gold certifications in New Zealand. Songs such as “Sittin’ On Top Of The World,” “City Boys,” “Real Life” featuring Stormzy, and “Alone” from the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack have all contributed to his growing list of accolades in the country. The achievement highlights Burna Boy ’s role as one of the leading artists driving the global reach of Afrobeats . The Port Harcourt-born musician has built a reputation for major international success through chart performance, global streaming numbers, and large-scale concerts. In recent years, he has achieved several landmark touring milestones. In 2023, Burna Boy became the first African artist to headline and sell out a stadium in the United Kingdom , filling London Stadium with over 80,000 fans—an achievement he repeated in 2024. That same year, he also became the first African artist to headline a stadium in the United States after selling out Citi Field Stadium in New York. ADVERTISEMENT His international touring success continued in 2024 when he became the first non-Francophone African artist to headline and sell out the 80,000-capacity Stade de France in Paris . Burna Boy also holds records for some of the highest-grossing concerts by an African artist in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom , reflecting the scale of his global appeal. The year 2026 has already begun with major industry recognition. At the 2026 Grammy Awards , Burna Boy secured his fifth consecutive nomination for Best Global Music Album with his 2025 project No Sign of Weakness . 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 Although he has yet to release new solo music this year, he has remained active through collaborations, including appearances on J. Cole’s album The Fall Off and British rapper Fredo’s track “Birthday.” With another global tour expected and continued international recognition, 2026 is shaping up to be another significant year for the Afrobeats star. Source: Pulse Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria
In a recent financial disclosure, Safaricom, Kenya's leading telecommunications provider, announced impressive earnings for its fiscal year ending in March. The company recorded group earnings before interest and tax of 139.9 billion Kenyan shillings (approximately $1.07 billion), excluding its operations in Ethiopia. This announcement underscores Safaricom's robust financial health and dominant position in the Kenyan telecom secto r. The results were made public on Thursday, highlighting the company's continued growth and strategic expansion efforts, particularly in the East African region. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 11, 2024 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: A Safaricom Plc store in central Nairobi, Kenya. Photographer: Patrick Meinhard In a recent financial disclosure, Safaricom, Kenya's leading telecommunications provider, announced impressive earnings for its fiscal year ending in March. The company recorded group earnings before interest and tax of 139.9 billion Kenyan shillings (approximately $1.07 billion), excluding its operations in Ethiopia. This announcement underscores Safaricom's robust financial health and dominant position in the Kenyan telecom secto r. The results were made public on Thursday, highlighting the company's continued growth and strategic expansion efforts, particularly in the East African region. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags
- Daddy Freeze Says Religion Has No Impact in Nigeria
Daddy Freeze says religion has no results in Nigeria, questioning its impact on development, prosperity, and living standards. Controversial media personality Ifedayo Olarinde, popularly known as Daddy Freeze , has sparked fresh debate after questioning the impact of religion on Nigeria’s development. Speaking on The Honest Bunch Podcast , Freeze argued that despite Nigeria’s strong religious culture, there is little evidence of corresponding progress in areas such as prosperity, social welfare, and living standards. He stated that religion should be evaluated based on measurable outcomes rather than belief alone. “My problem with religion is it has no results. Where is the prosperity? Where is the love?” he said, pointing to what he described as a disconnect between widespread faith and national realities. Freeze compared Nigeria with Japan, noting that the Asian country, which he described as less religious, has achieved significant economic and social development. He also raised concerns about Nigeria’s life expectancy, stating that the country continues to face poor health outcomes despite its high level of religiosity. In addition, he criticised what he described as misplaced priorities, arguing that Nigerians contribute more financially to religious institutions than to civic responsibilities such as taxation. “We pay more tithes than taxes in this country, yet our prayers and sacrifices don’t seem to reflect on the condition of our nation,” he said. His comments are expected to reignite discussions around the relationship between religion, governance, and development in Nigeria, where faith remains a central part of daily life. SOURCE: Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Daddy Freeze Says Religion Has No Impact in Nigeria By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 30, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Controversial media personality Ifedayo Olarinde, popularly known as Daddy Freeze , has sparked fresh debate after questioning the impact of religion on Nigeria’s development. Speaking on The Honest Bunch Podcast , Freeze argued that despite Nigeria’s strong religious culture, there is little evidence of corresponding progress in areas such as prosperity, social welfare, and living standards. He stated that religion should be evaluated based on measurable outcomes rather than belief alone. ADVERTISEMENT “My problem with religion is it has no results. Where is the prosperity? Where is the love?” he said, pointing to what he described as a disconnect between widespread faith and national realities. Freeze compared Nigeria with Japan, noting that the Asian country, which he described as less religious, has achieved significant economic and social development. He also raised concerns about Nigeria’s life expectancy, stating that the country continues to face poor health outcomes despite its high level of religiosity. ADVERTISEMENT In addition, he criticised what he described as misplaced priorities, arguing that Nigerians contribute more financially to religious institutions than to civic responsibilities such as taxation. “We pay more tithes than taxes in this country, yet our prayers and sacrifices don’t seem to reflect on the condition of our nation,” he said. 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 His comments are expected to reignite discussions around the relationship between religion, governance, and development in Nigeria, where faith remains a central part of daily life. SOURCE: The Sun Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria
- Nick Jonas says Christmas movie is for daughter Malti
Nick Jonas says the Jonas Brothers made their Christmas film with their children in mind, including daughter Malti Marie. Nick Jonas has shared that the Jonas Brothers’ new Christmas film was inspired in part by their families — including his daughter, Malti Marie. Speaking about A Very Jones Christmas Movie , Jonas said the project was driven by a desire to create something meaningful that their children could watch in the future and feel proud of. The film, made with brothers Joe and Kevin Jonas, was released on November 14. Jonas said the band is now at a different stage of life and career, with a focus on building work that lasts beyond the moment. He noted that after two decades in the industry, the group is still thinking long-term — not only about their music, but also how their children might one day view and share their projects with others. In an interview with Extra , Jonas said the brothers want their children to be able to look back on their creative work and feel connected to it. He added that a Christmas movie felt especially fitting because holiday films tend to remain part of family traditions for years. The Jonas Brothers recently completed the North American leg of their ongoing JONAS20 tour. (Source: Geo News) Continue Reading Full Article HOLLYWOOD UPDATES Nick Jonas says Christmas movie is for daughter Malti By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Dec 24, 2025 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nick Jonas has shared that the Jonas Brothers’ new Christmas film was inspired in part by their families — including his daughter, Malti Marie. Speaking about A Very Jones Christmas Movie , Jonas said the project was driven by a desire to create something meaningful that their children could watch in the future and feel proud of. The film, made with brothers Joe and Kevin Jonas, was released on November 14. Jonas said the band is now at a different stage of life and career, with a focus on building work that lasts beyond the moment. He noted that after two decades in the industry, the group is still thinking long-term — not only about their music, but also how their children might one day view and share their projects with others. ADVERTISEMENT In an interview with Extra , Jonas said the brothers want their children to be able to look back on their creative work and feel connected to it. He added that a Christmas movie felt especially fitting because holiday films tend to remain part of family traditions for years. The Jonas Brothers recently completed the North American leg of their ongoing JONAS20 tour. ADVERTISEMENT (Source: Geo News) Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States
- Ice Prince Explains Why He Is Afraid of Marriage
Ice Prince says fear of failed marriages and costly weddings has made him hesitant about marriage. Nigerian rapper Panshak Henry Zamani, popularly known as Ice Prince , has opened up about his concerns regarding marriage, revealing that he is reluctant to take the step due to what he has observed in many relationships. Speaking during a podcast interview with media personality Rufai Oseni, the 39-year-old artist said the growing number of marriages ending shortly after wedding ceremonies has influenced his perception of marriage. He noted that seeing couples separate within a short period after tying the knot has made him increasingly cautious about committing to marriage. Ice Prince also highlighted the financial and emotional pressure associated with elaborate wedding ceremonies. According to the rapper, some people go as far as borrowing money to fund weddings, a trend he finds concerning. He said friends frequently approach him for financial assistance to support wedding plans, adding that he does not want to find himself in a similar situation. Despite his reservations, the musician said he has not completely ruled out marriage . He suggested that he may reconsider the idea when he turns 40, noting that some of his mentors, including fellow r apper M.I Abaga , got married later in life. The rapper also shared some of his personal ambitions for the future. He expressed a desire to return to school and establish a farm, saying those goals currently take priority over marriage and continuing to release albums as he grows older. Ice Prince 's comments add to ongoing conversations about marriage, financial expectations, and changing personal priorities among public figures and young adults. Source: The Sun Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Ice Prince Explains Why He Is Afraid of Marriage By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment May 29, 2026 May 29, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian rapper Panshak Henry Zamani, popularly known as Ice Prince , has opened up about his concerns regarding marriage, revealing that he is reluctant to take the step due to what he has observed in many relationships. Speaking during a podcast interview with media personality Rufai Oseni, the 39-year-old artist said the growing number of marriages ending shortly after wedding ceremonies has influenced his perception of marriage. He noted that seeing couples separate within a short period after tying the knot has made him increasingly cautious about committing to marriage. ADVERTISEMENT Ice Prince also highlighted the financial and emotional pressure associated with elaborate wedding ceremonies. According to the rapper, some people go as far as borrowing money to fund weddings, a trend he finds concerning. He said friends frequently approach him for financial assistance to support wedding plans, adding that he does not want to find himself in a similar situation. Despite his reservations, the musician said he has not completely ruled out marriage . He suggested that he may reconsider the idea when he turns 40, noting that some of his mentors, including fellow r apper M.I Abaga , got married later in life. ADVERTISEMENT The rapper also shared some of his personal ambitions for the future. He expressed a desire to return to school and establish a farm, saying those goals currently take priority over marriage and continuing to release albums as he grows older. Ice Prince 's comments add to ongoing conversations about marriage, financial expectations, and changing personal priorities among public figures and young adults. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT Source: The Sun Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria
- Ogidi Brown Marries Jessica in Italy
Ghanaian musician Ogidi Brown has married Jessica in Bolzano, Italy. Here is what the wedding videos confirm and what fans are searching for. Ghanaian musician and OGB Music executive Ogidi Brown married his partner, Jessica, in Bolzano, Italy, on Saturday, 29 August 2026. Wedding footage shared publicly showed the couple celebrating in Ghanaian traditional dress with family and friends. The ceremony has since driven an exact-name search rise in Ghana. Did Ogidi Brown marry Jessica? Yes. Multiple reports and public wedding videos show Ghanaian musician Ogidi Brown and Jessica celebrating their marriage in Bolzano, Italy, on 29 August 2026. The ceremony followed his earlier public announcement of their wedding plans and featured Ghanaian dress, kente decoration and family celebrations. What the wedding footage confirms YEN’s report from 29 August says Ghanaian blogger Zionfelix was present and shared videos from the celebration. The footage shows Ogidi Brown, dressed in white traditional clothing and a matching cap, dancing beside Jessica, who wore a red beaded gown. GhanaWeb’s follow-up identifies the venue city as Bolzano and dates the main event to Saturday, 29 August. It also describes kente decoration and the presence of close friends and family. These details are consistent with the visual evidence shown across the reports. The ceremony was not a rumour created from an anonymous post. Ogidi Brown had publicly announced the planned marriage earlier in August, and the completed event was then documented by an attendee and several Ghanaian entertainment outlets. Why Ogidi Brown’s name is rising Google Trends listed “ogidi brown” as an active Ghana query early on 31 August, with 2,000-plus searches and a 700% rise during its public 24-hour window. That is a public directional signal, not a claim about his total audience or private engagement. The search intent has spread beyond the ceremony itself. Readers are asking who Jessica is, whether the wedding happened in Ghana or Italy, Ogidi Brown’s real name, his role at OGB Music and the story of the accident that changed his mobility. ZionFelix’s wedding account adds that both parents attended and that Ghanaian culture remained central to the celebration. It also links the wedding to Ogidi Brown’s earlier message describing the relationship as part of a journey through pain and healing. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Ogidi Brown Marries Jessica in Italy By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Aug 31, 2026 Aug 31, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ghanaian musician and OGB Music executive Ogidi Brown married his partner, Jessica, in Bolzano, Italy, on Saturday, 29 August 2026. Wedding footage shared publicly showed the couple celebrating in Ghanaian traditional dress with family and friends. The ceremony has since driven an exact-name search rise in Ghana. Did Ogidi Brown marry Jessica? Yes. Multiple reports and public wedding videos show Ghanaian musician Ogidi Brown and Jessica celebrating their marriage in Bolzano, Italy, on 29 August 2026. The ceremony followed his earlier public announcement of their wedding plans and featured Ghanaian dress, kente decoration and family celebrations. What the wedding footage confirms YEN’s report from 29 August says Ghanaian blogger Zionfelix was present and shared videos from the celebration. The footage shows Ogidi Brown, dressed in white traditional clothing and a matching cap, dancing beside Jessica, who wore a red beaded gown. GhanaWeb’s follow-up identifies the venue city as Bolzano and dates the main event to Saturday, 29 August. It also describes kente decoration and the presence of close friends and family. These details are consistent with the visual evidence shown across the reports. The ceremony was not a rumour created from an anonymous post. Ogidi Brown had publicly announced the planned marriage earlier in August, and the completed event was then documented by an attendee and several Ghanaian entertainment outlets. ADVERTISEMENT Why Ogidi Brown’s name is rising Google Trends listed “ogidi brown” as an active Ghana query early on 31 August, with 2,000-plus searches and a 700% rise during its public 24-hour window. That is a public directional signal, not a claim about his total audience or private engagement. The search intent has spread beyond the ceremony itself. Readers are asking who Jessica is, whether the wedding happened in Ghana or Italy, Ogidi Brown’s real name, his role at OGB Music and the story of the accident that changed his mobility. ZionFelix’s wedding account adds that both parents attended and that Ghanaian culture remained central to the celebration. It also links the wedding to Ogidi Brown’s earlier message describing the relationship as part of a journey through pain and healing. Who is Ogidi Brown? Ogidi Brown is the professional name of Ghanaian musician and music executive Gideon Jesse Brown. He is associated with OGB Music and became widely known both as a recording artist and as the former manager of singer Fameye. His public story is closely connected to Ghana and Italy. In a previous interview recounted by GhanaWeb’s profile of his recovery , he said he moved to Italy in 2012 and later sustained life-changing injuries in a road accident. He used part of an insurance settlement to establish his music business. ADVERTISEMENT That history explains why some reaction to the wedding was emotional, but it should not reduce the event to his disability. The central news is a public marriage milestone involving two consenting adults who chose to share their celebration. Coverage should avoid using wheelchair footage as spectacle or presenting private medical details that Ogidi Brown has not newly disclosed. Jessica and the limits of public information The bride is identified in the wedding coverage as Jessica. The available reports do not provide a verified full name, occupation, age or extended personal biography. Those details should not be guessed from social-media handles or copied from unverified profile pages. Likewise, no reliable source reviewed for this update established whether either partner has children. The article therefore stays with the confirmed facts: the couple announced their plans publicly, married in Italy, and allowed parts of the ceremony to be shared. Ghanaian culture at the Bolzano ceremony Although the wedding took place in northern Italy, the visible ceremony carried clear Ghanaian elements. The couple’s clothing, kente backdrop and family participation connected the diaspora setting to home. That combination is part of the cross-border appeal: a Ghanaian entertainment figure celebrated a major personal event in Europe without losing the cultural identity of the occasion. 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 Job & Opportunity Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Tech Trends Mahama Backs TraffiTech, Calls for Speed-Camera Warning Signs . Transport and Logistics Ghana Transport Shutdown Claim: What Is Confirmed? . Community Safety TraffiTech-GH Motorist Guide: Tickets, Payments and Appeals . Business & Investment Ghana textile policy: from investment targets to factory work . ADVERTISEMENT The choice of a straightforward headline also matters. Searchers looking for “Ogidi Brown wedding” or “Ogidi Brown wife” need confirmation first, not exaggerated claims about wealth, family conflict or medical history. The verified answer is that he married Jessica in Bolzano on 29 August. What happens next The public record may expand if Ogidi Brown or Jessica shares an official wedding gallery, full ceremony video or more information about their plans. Until then, editors should use licensed photographs, an authorised still from the couple, or an image supplied by the wedding team. Public availability does not automatically grant republication rights. For XTRAfrica, this is best handled as a new entertainment report rather than an unsupported spouse biography. The article can later link to a separately researched Ogidi Brown artist profile if one is commissioned. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Job & Opportunity Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs Certificate recognition could widen opportunities, but hiring and Canadian approvals remain separate. . Tech Trends Mahama Backs TraffiTech, Calls for Speed-Camera Warning Signs President defends road-safety cameras as drivers question fines, signage and road conditions. . Transport and Logistics Ghana Transport Shutdown Claim: What Is Confirmed? Operators threatened to park vehicles over TraffiTech-GH; a nationwide stoppage is unconfirmed. . Community Safety TraffiTech-GH Motorist Guide: Tickets, Payments and Appeals How to check a traffic notice, review the evidence and respond within the stated deadline. . Tags Ghana News Ghana News Ghana Ghana Ogidi Brown Ogidi Brown
- Ayra Starr Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs and Grammy Rise
Read Ayra Starr’s biography: her age, real name, Cotonou childhood, Mavin breakthrough, albums, Grammy nominations and 2026 plans. Ayra Starr is a Nigerian singer and songwriter whose deep-toned Afropop voice has carried a Cotonou-and-Lagos upbringing onto the global stage. Born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, she moved from teenage modelling and online song covers to Mavin Records, then announced herself with “Away,” 19 & Dangerous and the worldwide crossover “Rush.” Her official X profile reflects the same direct, playful persona heard in her music. By August 2026, Starr had earned two Grammy nominations, a BET Best International Act award and consecutive MOBO Best International Act wins. Her next chapter is already dated: the third album Starr Girl is scheduled for 14 August 2026. Who is Ayra Starr? Ayra Starr is a Nigerian Afropop and R&B singer born in Cotonou, Benin. Discovered through an original song posted online, she became a Mavin Records star, broke internationally with “Rush,” released two acclaimed albums and grew into a two-time Grammy nominee and major global award winner. From Cotonou Choirs to Lagos: Formative Life and Creative Roots Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe was born on 14 June 2002 in Cotonou, Benin. She is 24 years old as of 10 August 2026. Her childhood unfolded across Cotonou, Lagos and other cities as her family moved, exposing her to different languages, communities and musical traditions. Mavin’s official Ayra Starr biography confirms her birth name and Cotonou–Lagos upbringing. Music began as a family activity. Starr grew up with four siblings; her mother encouraged the children’s creative interests, while her brother Dami later became a close songwriting partner. She sang in choirs, wrote songs and absorbed music ranging from Nigerian pop and gospel to Rihanna, Angélique Kidjo and 1990s icons. A Teen Vogue profile records that her mother saw Lagos as the place where that ambition could become a career. Education came first. Starr attended university unusually young and completed her studies before fully pursuing music. In a Pitchfork interview , she connected that discipline to her family’s support and expectations: “I come from a very humble background, and I still have the mindset to be very grounded.” Her first professional lane was modelling. She signed with Quove Models in 2018, appeared in campaigns and learned how image, styling and performance could work together. Music, however, remained the intended destination. An Instagram Original Becomes the Defining Breakthrough Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Ayra Starr Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs and Grammy Rise By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Aug 10, 2026 Aug 17, 2026 11 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ayra Starr is a Nigerian singer and songwriter whose deep-toned Afropop voice has carried a Cotonou-and-Lagos upbringing onto the global stage. Born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, she moved from teenage modelling and online song covers to Mavin Records, then announced herself with “Away,” 19 & Dangerous and the worldwide crossover “Rush.” Her official X profile reflects the same direct, playful persona heard in her music. By August 2026, Starr had earned two Grammy nominations, a BET Best International Act award and consecutive MOBO Best International Act wins. Her next chapter is already dated: the third album Starr Girl is scheduled for 14 August 2026. Who is Ayra Starr? Ayra Starr is a Nigerian Afropop and R&B singer born in Cotonou, Benin. Discovered through an original song posted online, she became a Mavin Records star, broke internationally with “Rush,” released two acclaimed albums and grew into a two-time Grammy nominee and major global award winner. From Cotonou Choirs to Lagos: Formative Life and Creative Roots Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe was born on 14 June 2002 in Cotonou, Benin. She is 24 years old as of 10 August 2026. Her childhood unfolded across Cotonou, Lagos and other cities as her family moved, exposing her to different languages, communities and musical traditions. Mavin’s official Ayra Starr biography confirms her birth name and Cotonou–Lagos upbringing. Music began as a family activity. Starr grew up with four siblings; her mother encouraged the children’s creative interests, while her brother Dami later became a close songwriting partner. She sang in choirs, wrote songs and absorbed music ranging from Nigerian pop and gospel to Rihanna, Angélique Kidjo and 1990s icons. A Teen Vogue profile records that her mother saw Lagos as the place where that ambition could become a career. Education came first. Starr attended university unusually young and completed her studies before fully pursuing music. In a Pitchfork interview , she connected that discipline to her family’s support and expectations: “I come from a very humble background, and I still have the mindset to be very grounded.” Her first professional lane was modelling. She signed with Quove Models in 2018, appeared in campaigns and learned how image, styling and performance could work together. Music, however, remained the intended destination. An Instagram Original Becomes the Defining Breakthrough In 2019, Starr began posting covers and then shared an original song online. Don Jazzy saw the clip, invited her to Mavin’s studio and signed her after recognising more than a strong voice: he saw an artist with a developed point of view. That discovery turned social media from a display window into a route toward professional recording. Mavin introduced her publicly with the five-track Ayra Starr EP in January 2021. “Away” offered the first clear glimpse of her low, textured vocal tone and emotionally self-possessed writing. Seven months later, the debut album 19 & Dangerous expanded the world around it. “Bloody Samaritan” became a Nigerian No. 1 and established the “Sabi Girl” confidence that listeners would associate with her. The scale changed again with “Rush” in 2022. Its mix of self-belief, rhythm and an instantly recognisable vocal performance travelled beyond Nigeria, and the Recording Academy later nominated it for Best African Music Performance. XTRAfrica’s Ayra Starr songs page brings together that breakthrough era and the releases that followed. ADVERTISEMENT “Sabi Girl” Records: Sound, Craft and Achievements Ayra Starr’s catalogue moves between Afropop, Afrobeats, R&B, alté textures and global pop without hiding the grain of her voice. The contrast is central to her craft: a rich alto can sound vulnerable on a ballad, coolly dismissive on a breakup record or commanding over percussion. Her early work often used imagined stories; by The Year I Turned 21 , she was writing more openly about grief, independence, love and the disorientation of growing up while touring. The 2024 album marked both artistic and commercial expansion. Official Charts records a No. 80 peak on the UK albums chart, while Mavin identifies it as the first album by a Nigerian female artist to debut on the Billboard 200. Collaborations with Asake, Giveon, Coco Jones, Anitta and Seyi Vibez widened the album’s palette without removing Starr’s voice from the centre. Selected career achievements Earned Grammy nominations for “Rush” in 2024 and “Gimme Dat” with Wizkid in 2026, as confirmed by her Recording Academy record . Won BET Best International Act in 2025, her first BET victory, according to Channels Television . Won MOBO Best International Act in both 2025 and 2026; the 2026 MOBO results made the repeat official. Became the first Nigerian female artist to debut an album on the Billboard 200 with The Year I Turned 21 . Scored a fifth Nigerian No. 1 in 2026 when FOLA collaboration “treat u right” topped the TurnTable Nigeria Top 100 . XTRAfrica has also followed the wider movement around her catalogue, including the Rema collaboration in its feature on Ayra Starr and the new Afro-pop momentum . Cotonou, Yoruba Language and a Global Identity Starr describes herself as Nigerian, while Cotonou remains essential to her origin story. Her family roots connect her to Nigeria’s Yoruba culture, and she has spoken about learning Yoruba from her mother while her father encouraged formal English. French, Nigerian Pidgin and the experience of repeatedly entering new communities also shaped how she listens and adapts. That mobility does not make her music culturally vague. It helps explain why she can enter different genres without abandoning her phrasing, humour or Nigerian pop instincts. Mavin’s earlier profile of her influences points to Yoruba and Beninese music beside 2Face, Wande Coal, Aaliyah and Rihanna. Her identity is therefore layered but not speculative: Nigerian, Yoruba-connected, Cotonou-born and globally curious. Growing in Public: Confidence and the Personal Journey Fame arrived while Starr was still a teenager, placing private growth inside a public career. She has spoken about losing her father during her teenage years and later confronting that grief on “The Kids Are Alright.” In The Guardian’s 2024 interview , she described the safety of writing at home, where she could step away from the star persona and feel like “daddy’s girl Oyinkan.” The move to New York brought another adjustment. XTRAfrica reported her reflections on loneliness after relocating , while later interviews showed how the experience sharpened rather than erased her ambition. Her public philosophy combines audacity with boundaries: confidence is not the absence of grief or uncertainty, but the decision to keep creating through them. ADVERTISEMENT Ayra Starr Career Timeline Year Event Significance 2018 Signed with Quove Models Began professional work in image-making and performance before music fame. 2019 Posted an original song online and met Don Jazzy Turned online creativity into a Mavin recording opportunity. 2021 Released the Ayra Starr EP and 19 & Dangerous Established her voice, “Away” and the No. 1 “Bloody Samaritan.” 2022 Released “Rush” Delivered the international crossover that later earned a Grammy nomination. 2024 Released The Year I Turned 21 Expanded her emotional writing and entered the UK and US album charts. 2025 Won BET and two MOBO awards Converted global visibility into major international recognition. 2026 Earned a second Grammy nomination and another MOBO win Confirmed that her post-“Rush” career had sustained international weight. A New African Pop Generation and Ayra Starr’s Emerging Impact Ayra Starr’s emerging impact is larger than any one streaming record. She belongs to a generation of African women whose pop careers are simultaneously continental, diasporic and international. Her visibility challenges the old assumption that a young Nigerian woman must soften her voice, limit her fashion or choose between African specificity and global reach. The results are measurable: chart entries, festival stages, global collaborations and an audience of 18.8 million monthly Spotify listeners in August 2026. They are also cultural. She has made confidence sound youthful rather than rehearsed and helped open space for women who want Afropop to hold glamour, grief, humour and ambition at once. XTRAfrica’s coverage of her second Grammy-nomination season places that rise inside a broader African movement. Starr Girl and What Comes Next As of 10 August 2026, The Year I Turned 21 remains Ayra Starr’s latest released studio album. Her third, Starr Girl , is scheduled for 14 August. The official Ayra Starr music page lists “Tornado” as the current lead release, while her 2026 campaign has also included “Where Do We Go” and the FOLA collaborations driving Nigeria’s charts. At Teen Vogue Fest, Starr explained that the new album was recorded across Lagos, New York and Los Angeles and allowed her to move freely between R&B, pop and Afrobeats. Her clearest summary was brief: “This album is me existing in multitudes.” The Teen Vogue Fest interview frames Starr Girl as a project about taking creative power back. Live plans extend beyond release week: she is also billed for Afro+ Fest in September 2026 . XTRAfrica has documented her parallel interest in faith and an acting career , suggesting that her next phase may stretch beyond music without leaving it behind. Ayra Starr FAQs What is Ayra Starr’s real name? Ayra Starr’s full name is Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe. “Ayra Starr” is her professional stage name. How old is Ayra Starr? Ayra Starr is 24 years old as of 10 August 2026. She was born on 14 June 2002. Where was Ayra Starr born? She was born in Cotonou, Benin, and grew up across Cotonou, Lagos and other cities with her family. 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 Angélique Kidjo Makes Hollywood Walk of Fame History . Biography Who Is Maya Boyd, Marvel’s New Storm Actress? . Biography Who Is KC Luxury? Real Name and NDLEA Case . Biography Chidimma Adetshina: Citizenship Case Explained . Biography Carlos Baleba: Age, Nationality, Career and Transfer . ADVERTISEMENT What nationality is Ayra Starr? Ayra Starr is Nigerian. She was born in Benin and has publicly connected her upbringing to Nigerian and Yoruba culture. Who are Ayra Starr’s parents? Their names are not necessary to her public biography. She has described her mother as a major supporter of her music and her late father as an important influence. Did Ayra Starr attend university? Yes. She entered university unusually young and completed her education before the full launch of her recording career. How did Ayra Starr become famous? Don Jazzy discovered an original song she posted online. Mavin introduced her in 2021, while “Bloody Samaritan” built Nigerian recognition and “Rush” delivered her global breakthrough. What are Ayra Starr’s biggest songs? Her best-known songs include “Away,” “Bloody Samaritan,” “Rush,” “Sability,” “Commas,” “Santa,” “Last Heartbreak Song,” “Gimme Dat,” “Where Do We Go” and “Tornado.” How many albums has Ayra Starr released? She has released two studio albums: 19 & Dangerous (2021) and The Year I Turned 21 (2024). Starr Girl is scheduled as her third album on 14 August 2026. Has Ayra Starr won a Grammy Award? No. The Recording Academy lists two nominations and no wins: “Rush” in 2024 and “Gimme Dat” with Wizkid in 2026. What awards has Ayra Starr won? Major verified honours include the 2025 BET Best International Act award and MOBO Best International Act in both 2025 and 2026. How many Spotify monthly listeners does Ayra Starr have? Spotify displayed 18.8 million monthly listeners in August 2026. The figure changes continuously and should always be published with its date. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Angélique Kidjo Makes Hollywood Walk of Fame History Angélique Kidjo has made Hollywood Walk of Fame history. Explore the Beninese icon’s age, full name . Biography Who Is Maya Boyd, Marvel’s New Storm Actress? Meet Maya Boyd, the 23-year-old Broadway actress cast as Storm in Marvel’s new X-Men film. Her age . Biography Who Is KC Luxury? Real Name and NDLEA Case Who is KC Luxury? What is verified about Afolabi Kazeem Michael, his arrest and the NDLEA allegations . Biography Chidimma Adetshina: Citizenship Case Explained Why is Chidimma Adetshina facing deportation? Her biography, nationality dispute, court cases and .... . Tags Biography Biography Nigeria Nigeria Ayra Starr Ayra Starr
- South Africa Removes Medical Reports From Visa Applications
South Africa has waived medical reports for visa and permanent residence applications from 8 July 2026, including applications already pending. South Africa has removed one of the longstanding documents required in many immigration applications. Under Ministerial Immigration Directive No. 10 of 2026 , applicants for South African visas and permanent-residence permits no longer have to submit the immigration medical report previously required under the Immigration Regulations. The directive was signed by Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber on 8 July 2026 and published in Government Gazette No. 55016 on 17 July 2026 . The most important detail is the effective date: The waiver took effect on 8 July 2026, the date the minister signed the directive - not the later gazette publication date. It applies not only to future applications but also to applications that were already pending adjudication when the directive came into force. For thousands of foreign workers, students, spouses, retirees and permanent-residence applicants, this removes a document that previously required a medical practitioner to complete the prescribed immigration medical certificate. But applicants should be careful not to misunderstand the change. The directive removes the medical report requirement. It does not automatically abolish every other health, police, insurance, vaccination or category-specific document that may apply to a visa application. Quick Answer Continue Reading Full Article IMMIGRATION AND VISAS South Africa Removes Medical Reports From Visa Applications By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 7, 2026 Aug 7, 2026 29 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: South Africa has removed one of the longstanding documents required in many immigration applications. Under Ministerial Immigration Directive No. 10 of 2026 , applicants for South African visas and permanent-residence permits no longer have to submit the immigration medical report previously required under the Immigration Regulations. The directive was signed by Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber on 8 July 2026 and published in Government Gazette No. 55016 on 17 July 2026 . The most important detail is the effective date: The waiver took effect on 8 July 2026, the date the minister signed the directive - not the later gazette publication date. It applies not only to future applications but also to applications that were already pending adjudication when the directive came into force. For thousands of foreign workers, students, spouses, retirees and permanent-residence applicants, this removes a document that previously required a medical practitioner to complete the prescribed immigration medical certificate. But applicants should be careful not to misunderstand the change. The directive removes the medical report requirement. It does not automatically abolish every other health, police, insurance, vaccination or category-specific document that may apply to a visa application. Quick Answer South Africa's Department of Home Affairs has issued a blanket waiver of the requirement to submit a medical report with: Visa applications for temporary sojourn in South Africa; and Permanent-residence permit applications. The waiver is contained in Ministerial Immigration Directive No. 10 of 2026 . It: Took effect on 8 July 2026 Applies to future applications Applies to applications currently pending adjudication Removes the immigration medical-report requirement Does not require applicants to submit an individual waiver request for that medical report Has been communicated to Home Affairs officials, Visa Facilitation Centres and consular services Has also been published by VFS Global for South African visa and permit applicants If an old checklist still asks for the DHA-811 or BI-811 medical report, applicants should check the latest Home Affairs, VFS or South African mission guidance before paying for a medical examination. What Exactly Did Home Affairs Change? Directive No. 10 of 2026 uses the Minister of Home Affairs' waiver powers under section 31(2)(c) of the Immigration Act, 2002 . The directive waives the requirements contained in: Regulation 9(1)(c) for visa applicants; and Regulation 23(1)(f) for permanent-residence applicants, insofar as those provisions concern submission of a medical report . That wording matters. The directive is not a temporary concession allowing someone to stay in South Africa while an application is delayed. It is a document-requirement waiver . In practical terms, the medical report is no longer supposed to be treated as a mandatory supporting document for applications covered by the directive. When Did the Medical Report Waiver Take Effect? The directive was: Signed: 8 July 2026 Published in the Government Gazette: 17 July 2026 The directive expressly says that it comes into operation on the date of signature . That means the operative date is 8 July 2026 . This distinction is important for people who submitted applications between 8 July and 17 July. The waiver was already in force during that period even though the gazette publication followed later. Does the Waiver Apply to Applications Already Submitted? Yes. The directive explicitly says it applies to: All future visa applications All future permanent-residence applications Applications currently pending adjudication This is one of the most significant parts of the change. If an applicant already submitted a visa or permanent-residence application and the case is still waiting for a decision, Directive No. 10 applies to that pending application. Applicants should not assume that they need to obtain and add a medical report simply because the application was lodged before the directive was published. If Home Affairs or a processing centre requests additional documents in a particular case, however, the applicant should read that request carefully and verify whether it concerns the now-waived immigration medical report or a different document required for another reason. Which Applications Are Covered? The wording of the directive is broad. It refers to applicants for a visa to temporarily sojourn in the Republic and applicants for a permanent residence permit . That means the waiver is relevant across South Africa's temporary-residence visa and permanent-residence systems wherever the underlying Immigration Regulations required the medical report. Depending on individual eligibility and application location, this can include applicants pursuing categories such as: Study visas General Work Visas Critical Skills Work Visas Intra-company Transfer Visas Business visas Relative's visas Retired Person Visas Exchange visas Certain visitor visas for longer stays or authorised activities Accompanying-family or dependant applications where the regulation previously required the medical report Permanent-residence applications The waiver does not mean that every listed category has identical application requirements. Each visa type still has its own supporting documents, eligibility conditions and application procedures. What Was the South African Immigration Medical Report? Before the waiver, many applicants were required to submit a prescribed medical report, commonly associated with the DHA-811 or BI-811 medical certificate . The form was completed by a medical practitioner and dealt with the applicant's general medical condition and certain recurring health conditions. For applicants in countries where medical appointments, certification or access to the prescribed form were difficult, the requirement could add cost and time to the immigration process. ADVERTISEMENT Directive No. 10 removes the requirement to submit this immigration medical report for covered visa and permanent-residence applications. Do You Need to Submit Something Else Instead? The directive does not create a replacement medical document. It waives the requirement to submit the medical report. In other words, applicants should not assume they must replace the old medical certificate with: A doctor's letter A general health certificate A hospital report A private medical examination A self-declaration of health unless another specific rule or visa category independently requires such a document. The safest approach is to follow the latest official checklist for the exact visa category while applying Directive No. 10 to the old medical-report item. Is the Radiological Report Also Required? Applicants should distinguish the medical report from the old radiological report . They are not the same document. The 2026 medical-report waiver does not itself remove the radiological report because that requirement had already been dealt with earlier. In May 2024 , South Africa's Second Amendment of the Immigration Regulations deleted the definition of a "radiological report" from the Immigration Regulations as part of broader visa-reform measures. Home Affairs also publicly described the 2024 reforms as removing the requirement to submit a radiology report. So the correct timeline is: 2024: The radiological-report requirement was removed through immigration-regulation reform. 8 July 2026: Directive No. 10 waived the remaining immigration medical-report requirement. Applicants may still find old medical or radiological forms hosted on government or VFS webpages. The existence of an old downloadable form does not by itself prove that the form is still required. Always compare old forms with the latest directive and current application checklist. Has the Police Clearance Requirement Been Removed? No. Directive No. 10 concerns the medical report . It does not say that police-clearance certificates are abolished. Police-clearance rules have been amended separately over time, including changes to the period of residence that may trigger a police-clearance requirement. Applicants should follow the current police-clearance requirements for their specific immigration category and application location. Do not omit a police certificate simply because the medical report has been waived. What About Yellow-Fever Certificates? A yellow-fever vaccination certificate is a separate travel-health and entry issue. Directive No. 10 does not say that South Africa's yellow-fever rules are cancelled. Travellers whose journey originates in or passes through a country that triggers South Africa's yellow-fever requirements should continue checking current Port Health and immigration guidance. A medical report for a visa application and a yellow-fever vaccination certificate serve different legal and public-health purposes. The waiver of one does not automatically waive the other. What About Medical Insurance or Medical Cover? Medical insurance or medical cover is also a separate issue. For example, certain immigration categories- particularly study-related applications - may have their own medical-cover requirements. Directive No. 10 removes the prescribed medical report , not every requirement containing the word "medical." Applicants should distinguish among: Medical report Medical insurance Medical aid or medical cover Treatment documentation Vaccination certificates Public-health entry requirements These documents serve different purposes. What About a Medical Treatment Visa? A medical treatment visa is an immigration category for a person travelling to South Africa for treatment. It should not be confused with the medical report that has now been waived. A person applying for a medical treatment visa may still need documents proving matters such as: The planned medical treatment The medical institution or practitioner Treatment dates Estimated costs Financial arrangements Accommodation or care arrangements Directive No. 10 does not abolish the medical treatment visa or erase the category-specific evidence needed to prove the purpose of that application. VFS Global Has Published the Waiver The directive itself says its contents must be brought to the attention of officials in the permitting environment and must also be published on the VFS website. VFS Global subsequently published an update dated 22 July 2026 stating that applicants are no longer required to obtain medical reports for visa and permit application purposes under the waiver. That makes the change more than a document sitting in the Government Gazette. It has been operationally communicated to the company processing many South African visa and permit applications. ADVERTISEMENT Applicants using VFS should nevertheless check the live checklist for their exact visa category before their appointment. Why Some Embassy or Consulate Checklists May Still Show the Old Rule South Africa's diplomatic network contains many visa pages, PDF checklists and downloadable forms. Not every webpage is updated at the same time. That creates a predictable problem after a rule change: The law or directive changes first, while an older embassy webpage or PDF may continue to display the previous checklist. This is already visible. For example, the South African High Commission in Canberra now expressly states that, under Directive No. 10 of 2026, submission of a medical report for a visa or permanent-residence permit is no longer required. At the same time, some other official South African mission webpages still display older visa instructions referring to a BI-811 medical report. This does not mean Directive No. 10 applies in one country but not another. It means applicants should verify whether the particular checklist they are reading has been updated after 8 July 2026 . What Should You Do If an Old Checklist Still Asks for a Medical Report? Do not immediately assume the directive is wrong. Instead: 1. Check the Date of the Checklist Look for: Publication date Last updated date PDF creation date References to older immigration rules A checklist created before 8 July 2026 may simply be outdated. 2. Check VFS Global If your application is being processed through VFS, check the current VFS South Africa immigration website and the 22 July 2026 medical-report notice. 3. Check the South African Mission If applying through an embassy, high commission or consulate, check the mission's latest visa page. Some missions have already added the new waiver. 4. Keep a Copy of Directive No. 10 Applicants may find it useful to have the official one-page directive available during an appointment, especially while older checklists are being updated. 5. Ask for Written Clarification If the mission or processing centre still insists that the waived medical report is mandatory, request clarification referencing: Ministerial Immigration Directive No. 10 of 2026 — Blanket Waiver: Requirement to Submit a Medical Report for Visa and Permanent Residence Applications. Whenever possible, obtain the answer in writing. Do You Need to Apply for an Individual Medical-Report Waiver? No separate individual waiver should be needed for the medical-report requirement covered by Directive No. 10. The minister has issued a blanket waiver . That is different from an applicant separately requesting discretionary relief from an immigration requirement. The directive applies at the system level to the medical-report requirement it identifies. Does the Waiver Reduce Visa Fees? The directive does not state that application fees have been reduced. Removing a supporting document can reduce the applicant's private costs—for example, the cost of a medical consultation or completing a prescribed form—but visa and VFS charges remain separate. Applicants should use the latest official fee schedule for their visa category. Do not rely on old blogs or visa-agent websites for current fees. Does the Waiver Make Visa Approval Easier? It simplifies the document list, but it does not guarantee approval. Applicants must still satisfy the legal requirements of the visa or permanent-residence category they are applying under. Home Affairs can still assess matters such as: Eligibility Purpose of stay Employment or job-offer requirements Qualifications Financial means Family relationship Police clearance where required Immigration history Passport validity Supporting letters Category-specific documentation The removal of one document should not be confused with automatic eligibility. Does the Waiver Apply to Permanent Residence? Yes. The directive expressly refers to applicants for a permanent residence permit . It waives the medical-report requirement contained in the relevant permanent-residence regulation and applies to: Future applications; and Permanent-residence applications already pending adjudication. Permanent residence remains a separate immigration process with its own substantive eligibility rules and supporting documents. The waiver removes only the medical-report requirement identified in the directive. What Should Applicants With Pending Cases Do? If your application is already pending: Do not obtain a medical report solely because an old checklist originally required one. Keep a copy of Directive No. 10 for your records. Monitor your VFS, Home Affairs or mission communication. Respond to any formal request for additional information within the stated deadline. If a request appears to demand the now-waived medical report, ask the processing authority to confirm whether the request was issued under an outdated checklist or whether it concerns a different document. Do not ignore a formal Home Affairs communication without checking what it actually asks for. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Business and Immigration South Africa Opens Trusted Employer Scheme Phase II for Companies . Immigration and Visas South Africa Removes Medical Reports From Visa Applications . Travel and Immigration South Africa’s New Online Traveller Declaration: Who Must Submit It . Travel and Immigration South Africa ETA 2026: Eligibility, Requirements & How to Apply . ADVERTISEMENT Before-and-After Checklist Document or Requirement Before Directive No. 10 Position After 8 July 2026 Immigration medical report / DHA-811 Commonly required in covered applications Waived under Directive No. 10 Radiological report Historically required Removed separately through 2024 immigration reforms Police clearance Required where applicable Not abolished by Directive No. 10 Yellow-fever certificate Required for applicable travel histories Not abolished by Directive No. 10 Medical insurance / cover Category-specific Check the visa category; not automatically waived Passport Required Still required Financial evidence Category-specific Still required where applicable Employment documents Work-visa specific Still required where applicable Qualification/SAQA evidence Category-specific Still required where applicable Relationship documents Family categories Still required where applicable Common Mistakes to Avoid Mistake 1: Paying for a Medical Report Because an Old PDF Still Lists It Check when the PDF was issued. A pre-July 2026 checklist may no longer reflect the current rule. Mistake 2: Assuming Every Health-Related Document Is Gone The directive only addresses the immigration medical report. Other health, insurance or vaccination requirements may exist independently. Mistake 3: Confusing a Medical Report With a Medical Treatment Visa The document and visa category are different. Mistake 4: Assuming Police Clearance Is Also Waived It is not waived by Directive No. 10. Mistake 5: Ignoring Category-Specific Documents A work visa still needs work-related evidence. A study visa still needs study-related evidence. Permanent residence still has its own eligibility documents. Mistake 6: Trusting an Immigration Agent Over the Gazette Where there is a conflict, start with the official directive, current Home Affairs/VFS guidance and the relevant South African mission. Frequently Asked Questions Did South Africa remove the medical report from visa applications? Yes. Ministerial Immigration Directive No. 10 of 2026 grants a blanket waiver of the medical-report requirement for covered visa applications. Does the waiver also apply to permanent residence? Yes. Permanent-residence applications are expressly included. When did the waiver start? The directive took effect on 8 July 2026 , the date it was signed. Why does the Government Gazette show 17 July? That is the gazette publication date. The directive itself says it comes into operation on the date of signature, which is 8 July 2026. Does it apply to applications already pending? Yes. The directive expressly applies to applications currently pending adjudication. Do I still need the DHA-811 or BI-811 medical certificate? For the immigration medical-report requirement covered by Directive No. 10, the medical report has been waived. Check the latest official checklist for your specific application in case a differently named health document is required for another reason. Do I need a doctor's letter instead? The directive does not state that another general doctor's letter replaces the waived medical report. Has the chest X-ray or radiological report also been removed? The radiological-report requirement had already been removed separately through the 2024 amendments to the Immigration Regulations. Directive No. 10 deals specifically with the medical report. Do I still need police clearance? Where police clearance is required for your application, yes. Directive No. 10 does not abolish police-clearance requirements. Do I still need yellow-fever vaccination proof? If yellow-fever rules apply to your travel itinerary, the medical-report waiver does not cancel them. Do international students still need medical cover? Applicants should check the current study-visa requirements. The waiver of the immigration medical report does not automatically remove separate medical-cover or insurance requirements. Does this apply at VFS Global? VFS Global published an official update on 22 July 2026 stating that medical reports are no longer required for visa and permit application purposes under the waiver. What if VFS asks me for a medical report anyway? Show the current VFS notice and Directive No. 10 and ask staff to verify the current checklist. If necessary, request clarification from a supervisor rather than relying only on an older printed list. What if a South African embassy still lists BI-811? Check whether the page has been updated since 8 July 2026. Contact the mission and reference Directive No. 10 before paying for a medical examination solely because of the old webpage. Does the waiver guarantee my visa will be approved? No. It removes one supporting-document requirement. All other eligibility conditions continue to apply. Is the waiver temporary? Directive No. 10 does not state an expiry date on its face. Applicants should nevertheless check for later directives, amendments or revised regulations before applying. Official Sources Government Gazette — Ministerial Immigration Directive No. 10 of 2026: https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/202607/55016gon7714.pdf Department of Home Affairs copy of Gazette No. 55016: https://www.dha.gov.za/images/gazettes/2026/55016-17-7-26.pdf VFS Global notice — Medical Reports, 22 July 2026: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/dha/news/medical-reports VFS Global — South Africa Department of Home Affairs visa and permit portal: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/dha South African High Commission in Canberra — updated visa guidance referencing Directive No. 10: https://dirco.gov.za/canberra/visas-to-south-africa/ Government Gazette — Second Amendment of the Immigration Regulations, 20 May 2024: https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/202405/50675rg11704gon4847.pdf XTRAfrica Verification Note This explainer was verified on 7 August 2026 against the official one-page Ministerial Immigration Directive No. 10 of 2026, the Department of Home Affairs copy, current VFS Global guidance and current South African diplomatic-mission webpages. The official directive confirms that: Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber signed the waiver on 8 July 2026 . It was gazetted on 17 July 2026 . It waives the medical-report requirement for visa applicants and permanent-residence applicants. It took effect on the date of signature. It applies to all future applications and applications already pending adjudication. Officials in the permitting environment, VFS Global and consular services were instructed to be informed of the directive. VFS Global published a notice on 22 July 2026 confirming that medical reports are no longer required for visa and permit application purposes under the waiver. XTRAfrica also found that some official South African mission pages still contain older medical-report language, while other missions have already updated their guidance to reflect Directive No. 10. Because of that transition, applicants should verify the latest checklist for their application location before an appointment. This article should be reviewed whenever: Home Affairs issues another immigration directive Immigration Regulations are amended VFS changes its visa-category checklists South African embassies or consulates update their document lists New permanent-residence application procedures are published ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Business and Immigration South Africa Opens Trusted Employer Scheme Phase II for Companies Qualifying employers have until 4 September 2026 to apply for faster skilled-visa processing. . Immigration and Visas South Africa Removes Medical Reports From Visa Applications New 2026 waiver also covers permanent residence and pending applications. . Travel and Immigration South Africa’s New Online Traveller Declaration: Who Must Submit It Who must file it, when to submit, and what travellers need to declare. . Travel and Immigration South Africa ETA 2026: Eligibility, Requirements & How to Apply South Africa will officially launch its Electronic Travel Authorisation on 12 August 2026... . Tags Visit South Africa Visit South Africa South Africa South Africa











